La Crosse Sub

Note: This is a work in progress. Check back often for updates. Last updated on September 29th, 2024.

I am planning to build the La Crosse Sub layout in my garage while I wait to determine what I am going to do with the building for the C&NW Winona Sub layout. The image below shows the current proposed track plan. At the top of the screen is a three track staging yard that will represent East Winona, although this may be expanded as I determine how much room I will have there. The peninsulas will all be built as modules that can be taken to shows. They are, from top to bottom:

1. Chicago & North Western Indian Hill District
2. Chicago Burlington & Quincy Brewery District featuring Heileman Brewery
3. Downtown yard, modeled loosely on the Chicago & North Western yard in La Crosse.

Operating Plan

The plan is for 3 operators.

1. Yard Master: Will work the downtown yard.
   • Builds trains for the Indian Hill District and Heileman Brewery.
   • Blocks manifest freight trains for return to East Winona.
   • Switches cars at the Freight House and Grain Storage yard.
2. Indian Hill Switcher
   • Starts in East Winona and runs to the yard.
   • Swaps cars and heads on to the Indian Hill district to switch.
   • When complete, will return to the yard and then continue on to East Winona.
3. Heileman Brewery Switcher - Runs twice a day.
   • Start in East Winona and runs to the yard
   • Swaps cars and heads on to Heileman Brewery to switch.
   • When complete, will return to the yard and then continue on to East Winona.

Track Plan

Click Here for Larger Image

Construction Progress

I recently made room in the garage to get started with measurements and planning. I need to move a few more things around, remove some things from the wall and paint. I hope to have the room ready to being the fixed layout sections along the outer walls by early November.