Future Layout Ideas

So having spent an increasing amount of time looking into small scale "Micro" railroading, in terms of prototypes and models, and switching methods; the idea behind a small shelf layout for future endevers seems like an ever more attractive idea to me. I am also looking to begin freelancing one of several potential roads in the future.

 

I have two road ideas right now. One is Minnkota Rail Inc. which would be a freelanced railroad running between northeastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota. A slogan I have thought of for this railroad would be something like - "Minnesota, North Dakota - Together."

 

Another idea I have been kicking around is a pair of freelanced shortlines running around the Chicago area under the names "Chicago Rail Network." and "Northern Illinois Rail Network." the premise behind these could be similar to the former Camus Prairie Rail Network in Illinois.

 

Since both of these roads would work with small locomotives primarily (very few 3 axle units) and since yard operations and switching is what I have a passion for, I feel like I could integrate one or both of these railroads into a small shelf layout which involves just that.

 

All layout options would be for HO scale operations. Time period would likely be 1980s-1990s.

 

In doing this, I could likely thin out my rolling stock collection as well, which would allow me to get rid of some of my older cars which I have little use for.

 

I have uploaded the classic "Switchman's Nightmare" as an example of something similar to what I might want to do.

 

Any of my modeling inclined friends have an thoughts, suggestions etc? I am open to all thoughts!

 

Done