Alta California 1st Anniversary Layout Update! | ALTA 10

One year of progress building the HO scale Alta California Railway, set in 1968 Mexico & California. Hopefully this will inspire you to put in an years' worth of work on your own layout once you realize how I managed to get so far in so little time, just a few hours here and there each month.
If you're impressed with my work, please support my efforts on Patreon: / interurbanera .
If you haven't seen the other layout updates since we began in July of 2022, start with Episode 1 here, it's worth it: • ALTA II EP 01: Plannin...
Watch me build the NdeM RS1 here: • The Joy of Kitbashing:...
#ferrocarril #hoscale #modelrailroad #train #ndem #railroad #mexico #diy #kitbash #howto #miniature #tram #streetcars #electric #transit #peco #track

[@thatd59ladlarry]

Days become better when we hear more on ALTA California

[@InterurbanEra]

I really appreciate this, I'm glad to bring such joy to you and fellow modelers with layout updates!

[@bsquiklehausen]

It's amazing seeing paper mockups, wooden blocks, and unfinished foam where the mesa and Esquina are and realizing that that wasn't so long ago!

[@InterurbanEra]

Right? It seems so surreal, especially considering most of the structures so far have been scratchbuilt vs. kit purchases!

[@MilesModelWorks]

I think it would be interesting if you added an old steam loco being cut up, as a signs of things to come.

[@InterurbanEra]

Splendid idea. I have no lack of engines to do for this. I'm also considering using an older steam engine as a mobile steam plant for the backshop as was common practice in those days as well.

[@OddHunter5504]

“How long does it take to build a model railroad” its always ongoing and never ending which is always exciting

[@blownglasslide]

Congratulations, Miles! It looks incredible. Can't wait for more streetcar shenanigans ;)

[@InterurbanEra]

Thanks so much, it means a lot coming from you! I can't wait to show you the next video.

[@chicagolandrailroader]

I absolutely love the premise and execution of your layout. Great work

[@InterurbanEra]

Thank you so much! I'm so excited to show you what I've been working on this month as well, so stay tuned!

[@davidbrown4823]

Excellent layout.

[@InterurbanEra]

Why thank you! Stick around for more layout progress in the coming weeks, I got a lot done this month.

[@ApproachMedium]

I love that you used Phillips Hue for your backdrop lighting. I gota remember that one.

[@AvinZarlez]

Loved the summary of progress! ❤ it's looking great

[@sernajrlouis]

Cool video

[@owenthetrainman7219]

Absolutely beautiful layout! I love your era and region. Awesome choice! I’m excited to see how this progresses into the future!

[@InterurbanEra]

I'm so glad you get a kick out of it! Lots more beautiful things to come, so please subscribe and I'll look forward to your comments on the next video!

[@KaidsTrains]

Every aspect of this layout so far is looking amazing!

[@4449John]

Really liking how this is coming along. Not too different from ideas I've been playing with for too long to mention. So far though you have gotten trains running and I just keep adding boxes to my storage pile; family stuff keeps things interesting as one ages, not always good for making a layout however. Keep up the great work!

[@InterurbanEra]

Thank you so much! What layout concept are you hoping to build? I definitely know the life of "layout is functional, collecting more models must continue" feeling. Breaking free of that even with family commitments can be difficult, I found that working on "quick" small structure projects or detailing road vehicles helps encourage scenery to begin.

[@treksntracks]

Nice video. On my way to Mazatlan and Durango MX. Was there a reason why Mazatlan was picked as your terminus?

[@InterurbanEra]

That was actually a typo in my script. The actual terminals are: Guaymas/Empalme until 1955 and then post 1955 down to Guadalajara.

[@StocktonSubber]

I always wonder where you tend to get your interurbans from. While I am building the branch line like how I mentioned in previous ALTA episodes, I am planning to make an Interurban layout someday, and I would like some advice on some models to purchase to start my collection. As for the ALTA II, this is starting to look ASTOUNDING from the lighting. I’ve gotten LEDs for night running, but I’ll never be able to comprehend how those pale in comparison to your roof lights. Can’t wait to see how the carbarn turns out!

[@InterurbanEra]

So, there's broadly three types of interurbans/streetcar models I buy: 1. RTR models from Bachmann & Bowser, with DCC/Sound to save time and enjoy immediately 2. Suydam Brass Interurbans. Made in the thousands in the 60's/70's, they often sell for $125 on eBay / Brasstrains. They'll usually require additional investment of a $90 NWSL Stanton power truck to ensure they run with DCC. It's not difficult to do, but it takes care. The original drives have open frame motors which cannot be used in DCC. They also take serious care to paint/detail upgrade. Once all that work is done, they tend to look pretty spectacular. 2b. Brass offerings from more obscure manufacturers / Importers. My Chicago streetcars are made by Fairfield Traction Co, and are pretty beautiful models. I paid $100 & $80 for the two I have. They're obscure, but not hard to find. 3. Resin kits from Funaro & Camerlengo. These are cheapest to buy at $30-40 each, but require seriously advanced modelmaking skills and the aforementioned NWSL Stanton drive. These will take the longest to build, take the most time, and hopefully will be worth the result.