Model Railroader Unveils Compact East Troy Industrial Park Layout
Model Railroader introduced the East Troy Industrial Park, a compact HO project layout focused on realistic industrial switching and operations, with a footprint sized for modest spaces. The multi part project will run through 2026 with step by step how to installments covering track and roadbed, DCC and turnout controls, and scenic techniques, offering modelers practical guidance for building and operating the layout.
On December 18, 2025 Model Railroader unveiled the East Troy Industrial Park, a compact HO scale project layout designed to showcase industrial switching and operational interest in a space conscious plan. The layout is presented as a modern freelance industrial switching scheme with a typical footprint of roughly 14 feet 2 inches by 19 feet 0 inches, and a mainline run of approximately 33 feet that supports hands on operations in a modest room.
Key physical parameters make the plan useful for those planning operations oriented layouts. The minimum main radius is 28 inches while spurs taper down to 18 inches, enabling tight industrial trackage while still accommodating standard HO equipment. Benchwork calls for L girder construction, providing a sturdy, familiar foundation for modellers who want reliable support for complex switching moves and detailed scenery.
The project is part of the Track Plan Database and will be carried as the magazine project layout for 2026. Modelers can expect multiple follow up installments in the How To section that walk through critical build stages. Planned step by step features include track and roadbed techniques, DCC and turnout controls, and scenic techniques, each aimed at helping builders replicate the look and operational flow of a small industrial park.
Practical value is clear. Measure your available space and compare it to the 14 feet 2 inches by 19 feet 0 inches footprint before committing. Allow for the 28 inch minimum main radius when selecting locomotives and rolling stock, and plan benchwork with L girder to support future scenery and switching operations. The inclusion of spurs down to 18 inches means operators can model compact industrial customers without sacrificing realistic switching complexity.
Community impact will be in sharing build progress and operational tips over the course of the year, as the project evolves from plan to finished layout. Watch the How To installments for concrete wiring, turnout control and scenic methods, then adapt the East Troy Industrial Park concepts to suit your own space and operating ambitions.
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