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Gateway Central IX (2002)
A fun to operate, small HO scale train layout
Looking for a small HO scale model railroad track
plan? The Gateway Central IX offers lots of switching
and train operation possibilities, while still providing
a complete mainline loop for just running trains. This
layout can be easily expanded in four different
directions.
Click any of these photos for the high-resolution
version. Photos by Richard Schumacher.
Track plan showing the location of the
major structures. This track plan combines a
continuous run loop with the capability for
true model railroad operations and switching
action. Click aerial view for large, very
detailed (239KB) version.
Track plan Copyright 2001 Richard
Schumacher. All commercial rights reserved.
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 The
large buildings divide the layout into
separate scenes without the need for a
scenic divider. The facing and trailing
point sidings, and three crossings, give a
"big time railroading" feel in
only 4'x6'.
As you follow the train around the loop in
these four photos, you'll see how the
structures and trackwork arrangement help
create and reinforce a number of small
scenes. |
 The
"railroad avenue" side of the
layout features a large REA freight house
(with inbound and outbound tracks) at left,
a fuel company (right rear) that is switched
from this side of the layout, and two
industries with separate tracks at right and
right front. |
 The
four-lane street enters the layout from this
end. The street system is a major structure
in itself, made of street, curb, sidewalks
and accessories (including streetlamps,
telephone poles, fire hydrants, mailboxes,
and manhole covers). Light weathering of the
traffic lanes, and the yellow centerline,
are important in creating a realistic
street. |
 The
"industry row" side of the layout
has three industries to switch, a lumber
yard (at left), a large warehouse (center)
and an intricate brewery complex (right).
The brick street crossing and railroad
crossing make this scene appear larger by
dividing it into separate areas. |
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Close-up photos of this layout's model structures
This layout was constructed in Atlas Code 83
sectional track. Compare this to the 2001 small model railroad layout
which was designed in Life-Like Power-Loc sectional
track. The wider selection of pieces available in the
Atlas track line allows greater flexibility in design.
Both train layouts are approximately 4'x6'.
Check out the articles and photos on the 2003, Missouri History Museum
Train Layout, 2001, Model Railroader, 1999 and 1997 layouts.
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