Well, York was very inspiring and I have decided that I can’t wait any more to get some track down out side. We are still planning to move in about 2 years but this idea will require minimal grading and should be pretty easy to pick up and transplant.
My plan is to model the EBT’s southern terminus Robertsdale. This will only include Mine #1 for it’s initial incarnation. It’s possible I could add mine #5 later but that depends on how long we stay for starters. I’m adding a loop at each end to provide some form of continuous running. There should be plenty of operation in between the loops when the urge for that strikes. (Most of the time 
) The loop at the Northern end (with the wye) will run out where the ground drops off and be on some sort of trestle providing a place for a belly height steam up track. Now this trestle will not be of the scale model type, but more of a utilitarian type to be quick to build for it’s planned sort life.
Here is a view of the area will this will all take place. In the distance you can see where the plateau ends and the end loop will be on it’s trestle. The other loop will end right about where the white corner of our house is.
My First order of business will be building the 12 switches that I’ll need This is where I’m running in to my fist dilemma. The EBT used standard gauge ties everywhere. Since I’m building my switches it wouldn’t be a problem to cut those the right length. But what about my tie strips? I have 400’ of code 250 aluminum rail form Switch Crafters and a box of ME tie strips to go with it. Unfortunately when you see track assembled it doesn’t really scream EBT. Does anyone make a 1:20.3 tie strip assuming 3’ gauge with standard gauge length? Since Cumberland offers the Dual gauge F scale, I’m going to inquire about it to them but I’m pretty sure of the answer I’ll get. Any other options? (aside from hand laying everything! )
