This evening, I re-entered the layout room. I haven't done much since the op session, and then test solo op session.
Many of you remember the overpass I added down at the west end of the yard. I was going to use it as a scene break between Utica and Ottawa. Tonight, I started working on layout of buildings, driveways, adding more chemical silos, etc at Philadelphia Quartz (PQ). In reviewing the photos I snagged off Bing Maps, I want to complete more of the scene around the tanks and structure on the right side of the industry (that is adjacent to the yard).
So, I look at the Bing Maps of PQ, look at the layout, look at this road crossing. Something has to go. Maybe that big road crossing that sticks up well above all the other scenery. Wait for it....wait for it.....Then within seconds, a tornado touched down on the layout and the entire bridge, road, hill and all, completely wiped off the map! If you would have blinked, you would have missed it.
At the rear of the PQ property, I will have a tree/brush line with a chain link fence. It will still be a scene block, just not a raised hill as before.
No love lost on the bridge. I was concerned about it blocking the turnout access there anyway. With points popping off at times, I don't need a turnout inaccessible.
All prep work has been completed and I'm happy with the design of the lot and the small supporting structures location at PQ. Next step, time to pave the lot.
