Progress Shots

Gallitzin Relocated

I finished the benchwork for the 5' x 8' extension. It's constructed the same as the rest of the layout. A grid of 2"x 4" supported on 2"x 4" legs on casters. The 53"-54" height was retained to provide space under the deck for storage. The subtop and foam were cut close to the track to enable portions to be elevated. The area around Gallitzin and the tunnels was cut free and rotated 90 degrees to it's new location just east of Horseshoe Curve on the extended framework. I would have liked a bit more running room between the curve and the tunnels, but there really isn't any space. The extra length of the main line is now between Gallitzin and Altoona, making operations a bit more realistic.

The New Helix Location

Unlike the rest of the layout some areas will be beyond the standard "arm's length" width. This space, however, is taken up by the new helix between Gallitzin and Altoona. The main line has also been lengthened on both sides of the helix. I'm hoping I created enough room for a gentle grade back into Altoona. The new trackage results in a longer approach to Altoona allowing space for the interlocking required there. There is also a bit more space for the Altoona Northern / Glen White loop and related trackage. Hopefully there is also room for the roundhouse at East Altoona. I've thought of reversing the location of the engine terminal to the "west" end of Altoona, but only if necessary.

Altoona Extension

The expansion plans also include widening the layout in the area of Altoona itself. By extending the entire side by 12" I hope to create a large enough area for the new yard plan. The resulting area will be 2 feet wide by 15-16 feet long. Should result in a pretty impressive installation. Won't be anything like the real facility, but it may convey some of the sheer scale of the place. The entire layout will need to be shifted a foot towards the opposite side of the garage to maintain the 24 inch aisle width in this area. Glad I put the whole assembly on wheels! Fastening the track down "temporarily" with track nails also proved a blessing. It's very easy to realign the right of way.