In late summer of 2003, we began discussing where the club was headed to meet the needs of the membership. Scenery was 90% complete, operations had been fine-tuned using RailOp and most "grimlins" had been identified and eliminated. As expected, lively viewpoints were offered and explained. The end result being that we wanted to play with the "big boys" in scope and capabilities. An expansion of facilities were agreed on with the financial plan as a guide. 

A 17' x 50' "lean-to" metal building was completed in December, 2003. The owner furnished the exterior building and the Club would complete the interior and layout portion. A criteria was established using guidelines below:

                                       1. Two levels @ 40" & 60" elevations with 2 helixes

                                       2.  Eliminate staging yards in office area

                                       3. Maintain a 4' aisle space

                                       4. Continue operations on existing layout

The proven use of Atlas code 83 flex and Super Turnouts, continued into this next phase. A 30" minimum radius and a grade of 2% was maintained. 

   Statistics:                  Existing                                            Expansion

              Mainline            330'                                                        398'

             Passing                80'                                                        150'

             Yards                  381'                                                        510'

             Sidings               260'                                                        175'

            Branch                174'                   Code 70/75                   22'  

             TOTAL                1225'                                                      1255'

           Turnouts              142                                                          110