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A Layout Vision Fulfilled
Custom-built HO layout features terrific workmanship and ops potential
I always enjoy working with custom model railroad layout builder Rick Fortin. Not only is he a good friend (and practically a neighbor), but he brings exquisite craftsmanship to the projects we work on together.
I recently had the chance to visit one of his completed projects built from my design. It was an amazing experience to see the track plan come to life through Rick's creativity and modeling skills.
The design itself is an adaptation of Dan Murdock's clever Metro Belt & Terminal Railroad track plan from the April 2001 Model Railroader (below). Rick's clients had a slightly different space and needed the plan to be a mirror-image of the original. They also wanted to add more staging and more of a working yard.

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The resulting plan (below) builds on Dan Murdock's original concept with a climbing branch to a long shelf. This shelf provides space for some heavy industrial switching and the classification yard at Hilyard, along with a bit of engine service. Eight long stub-end staging tracks are tucked below the working yard to handle a large collection of rolling stock.