BNSF Crosses the Diamonds in Rochelle

A big thing missing on the old Rochelle Sub layout was BNSF trains running through Rochelle.  The BNSF tracks were there and they were used by the the BNSF switcher, but the tracks dead ended into the backdrop and off the edge of layout so that there was no way to run through-trains on the BNSF tracks.  In designing the new layout, one of the things I wanted to incorporate was running BNSF trains across the diamonds.  As you can see from the track plan below, the new layout has a loop of track for the BNSF.

 Most of the BNSF loop track is or will be hidden, including the sharp turn-back curves that make the loop possible. During operating sessions, two trains that will be stored in the hidden portion of the loop will periodically make their appearance and run across the diamonds.
   This weekend, I finally completed laying track for the loop so that BNSF trains can run across the diamonds and through Rochelle.  Unfortunately, I do not have any BNSF equipment, other than the BNSF switcher.  So, in the mean time the BNSF switcher will have to pull double duty and an old Athearn CSX SD70 will fill in.  I also threw on some NS coal cars and triple crown road railers from a friend (thanks Andy!). Below is a video of some initial BNSf action on the Geneva Subdivision.  Enjoy!