For the switching layout folks in the group, especially those modeling the modern era, I've just published a new book on the subject,...

Example of a partially complete layout based on a midwestern branch line theme. The customer will complete the rest himself. "Partially...

The switcher pushes an idler car towards the car float on this "Fine" standard N scale layout based on the Brooklyn waterfront in WW2. ...

I always wanted to model this Los Angeles Junction Railway engine house but didn't have a space for it on my layout. I built it anyway...

Getting most of the mechanical portion of a layout done early is vital to maintaining morale. It's equally important, however, to slow...

Topic: Model Railroad Branch Line Track Plan Design Imagine faded RS-2's pulling short trains through the river valleys of Vermont or...

The local runs down the switchback to pick up an empty at the Miami Produce Center on my personal layout based on The Downtown Spur in...

My "second" layout is a simple, two turnout affair, in the corner of my office. It's based on the Los Angeles Junction. Structures are...

Prairie-themed layouts lend themselves well to modelers with lots of space but limited modeling time. (Caldwell, ID, 1941, Lee Russell....

Creating Visual Symmetry Shown above is a 1940's topo map of Frederick, MD. Note the general sense of order, the ninety degree grids,...

Having just left Newark Station, and crossed over the Passaic River dock bridge, a northbound Amtrak train passes the tower. This image...

Lift Out Bridge Design Standards Although they have their drawbacks, lift out bridges allow for such far superior model railroad designs...

This guy really caught me off guard. One second it was quiet, an instant later he was on me. I know he was going over 100 mph, by how...

Who wouldn't love to model this grain elevator in Farmersville, IL? The next town has one just as cool, as does the next. However, as...

When I started building my Downtown Spur layout, I temporarily laid Atlas flex track and placed some cardboard mock ups in place to see...