Revised Upper Level

After many mock-ups it became apparent that I was going to have a reach in problem over part of the lower level, the area that protrudes out like a triangle. The only way I could see to simplify the area above the triangle was to go ahead with the node under.  Staging will be moved to the very top level above Bethesda.  E.C. Keys sidings will be placed as shown on the plan to keep operators on each level separated.

The node under will be a swing out bridge section that will fold into the front edge of the railroad when not in use. To hid the track when stored I have planned a removable Styrofoam section of scenery that will cover the bridge track when stored and be used as a filler when the bridge is deployed.

The new area will have the Interchange and team track next to the B&O main line that will sit in the background.  Cars for the interchange can be brought onto the layout via cassette as shown in the plan.  Cassette's will be stored under the lower level.

I will continue the helix upwards to the third level above Bethesda.  Staged trains will be visible with small mirrors placed in the corner of the ceiling.  I have decided to push all trains toward Georgetown as the prototype did so no run around in staging will be required.

I have already built the new shelf for the interchange and I am working out the bridge detail.  I will post pictures in a couple of days.