The HO scale Southern Pacific Cascade Line (occupying 11/2 decks in a 2400 sqft. space) models the SP’s “modern” (1926-built) mainline ascent of the Cascades from Eugene to Crescent Lake, Oregon. This was the historic Springfield Subdivision (later much of the Cascade Sub) of the SP.
Current operating timeframe is 1984 with much of the physical plant (track plan) derived from late steam-era 1954. Beginning at the base yard of Eugene, the railroad serves industry in Eugene, Springfield, Westfir and Oakridge. Oakridge remains the helper station at the base of the historic 1.8% climb. Three mountain sidings are located between Oakridge and Cascade Summit.
The railroad uses NCE radio for throttle control, Direct Traffic Control for traffic movement, and Car Cards and Waybills for individual car movement. All but one industrial branch is in service. A major push in 2018 installed all mainline bridges and tunnels and encased most of the railroad in base terrain. Regular monthly operating sessions by a crew of twenty work through a daily train line-up based on train symbols running in 1984. Crew jobs include a Dispatcher, an Assistant Chief Dispatcher, a four-man crew in the Eugene terminal complex, local freights run as turns, through road freights plus Amtrak, and manned helpers working between Oakridge and Cascade Summit.
Visit the Southern Pacific Cascade Line blog at: http://espeecascades.blogspot.com/
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