Southern Pacific Switching Layout

[FCIN]

I came to realise this: I like track plan number 1, but I don't like it's theme. I would really like to build plan 1 with a class 1 engine stationed there.

Perhaps a class 1 bought a short-line and continued to use the same ops plan, the switcher could run light from the yard and switch the spur as if it were isolated(Meaning the switcher would always arrive and leave running light)

I don't know if any of these would be plausible, I'm just throwing ideas out there :?

Justin;
No reason that your layout couldn't represent a short spur off a class I road, that still has an interchange connection with another road. In other words, a portion of a former main line that has been abandoned except for the section to the interchange and to serve the industries on it. The concept that a yard crew runs light to the spur once a day to work the interchange and industries could be feasible in that theme.

If that section of the line were busy enough, then it would also be feasible to have an engine and crew stationed there. But keep in mind, in either case there would be interchange traffic moving to and from the yard and not just for the industries on that spur.

It could also be operated as a separate company, using power from the former class I owner. When the Illinois Central sold off all it's unwanted lines, IC GP-8's/10's usually went with the sale of the line and in many cases, the power remained in IC paint for years. Power could also be leased from the class I, which is quite prototypical for some small operations. If the theme you have in mind is that all traffic comes on and goes off the layout at your interchange in Plan 1, then to me it would be a better fit to treat it as a separate company.

One suggestion regarding Plan 1. I would add the second track at Consolidated Container where the scrap paper is shipped out and where they unload the occasional tank car of caustic soda. Would add more operation to working that one industry.