Track Plan Part 3

Deck 3 is the big question mark.  As with all things there are pro's and con's:
Con

• Cost, Deck 3 will add significanly to cost
• Height, this will be from 62" to 72", too high to work on or view without step stool
• Complexity of bench work, that high will mean alot to work out on support.
• Cosmetic impact on Deck 2.

Pro

• Really adds run time for operations
• Adds considerable traffic from mines, passengers and excursion cars
• Addition of several key landmarks like: Georgetown loop, Silver Plume, Argentine Central (seen as Shay to Mt McClellan, Aerial Tram, and even Lumber (Lumber mill existed for a time at end of track).

The ultimate decision will probably be made after Deck 2 is built, I can then see how much a 3rd Deck would take away from Deck 2.

The Plan:

Starting at the Top

Central city

• The Tram will provide a means to move ore from several mines to Blackhawk to be milled.  Supplies will flow back up to Central city and then be taken to the mines.
• Central City will have several hopefully representative buildings to place the location.
• Option to bring C&S regular line up switchback to station.
• I really like the Gilpin Tram and this lets me create a replica that adds operational and scenic fun.  The deck is at 68" so it will require a step up.

Georgetown

• Provides the loop and a portion of the city to model.
• The location is iconic

Silver Plume

• Provides end of track and a nice town with several landmarks
• Building a platform as seen in 1910 will provide interchange for Argentine Central and will justify both ore and excursion cars
• The Aerial Tram which only survived about 2 years gives an excuse to model a really cool structure.
• There is also a Aerial Tram in Silver Plume to a Mine above the City.

Thats alot to think about.  Next it might be worth looking at operational opportunities.