While the Blairstown module filled several needs for an opeating Free-moN layout, I have a large interest in exploring the freedom provided by the Free-mo standards. I decided my next module would depict a crossing at grade between two railroads. Furthermore, I wanted the module to allow connecting tracks to all 4 sides of the diamond. Additionally, I wanted the diamond to be protoected by a simple mechanical device, an electrically locked gate.
The electrically locked gate is was a critical factor in finding an appropriate location. The electrically locked gate would indicate that one of the two lines was signalled and the other line was dark teritory. The electric locks prevent the gate from being opened when a train is allowed through the crossing on the signalled line.Given my interest in the Frisco, I looked through my collection of employee timetables for a location of interest, and came up with 3 candidates. I decided on Harrisonville,MO, a location north of Blairstown on the Clinton subdivision. Harrisonville features 2 gated crossings between the Frisco and the Missouri Pacific's White River Line.
I have made one minor deviation on the plan above. In the time period I am modeling, the Katy was abandoned in this area, but the Frisco served several industries on the line. I have added the abandoned Katy right of way and the interchange track. This appears on the right end piece (where the industrial peninsula attaches). Note for the purrists: the Katy right of way should actually be between the MoPac and the Frisco, but I made it cross both lines so that it would not intersect an endplate.
With the exception of the small industrial peninsula, the framework for the Harrisonville module has been constructed. The center section is now functional with the frisco trackage basically complete. The Missouri pacific trackage will not be completed until track is placed on the end pieces. The two end pieces are framed. The right endpiece has cork in place. The left end piece should receive cork in the next month or so. A few photos of the module in its current state can be found here.