When I built my original East Rail layout, the initial intent was a “proof of concept” test. Specifically, without committing to a large layout to try on modeling the Miami industrial scene for size. By all measures it was a successful test and I went on to build a full size layout based on Miami’s Downtown Spur. Having felt that East Rail had served its purpose, I sold it in 2013. Over the years I began to regret getting rid of it. Ten years later, in early 2023, while working in my photography room in the basement it dawned on me that a replica would fit perfectly in the space. Out of that realization East Rail 2 was launched. I’ve tried to stay true to the original version, especially the iconic canal scene, while making subtle design improvements.
Local Y320, handled by a GP38-2, eases across 35th Avenue in 2006. Beyond the live oaks is Colonial Coffee Roasters. Just out of view to the right is SALCO, the industry being switched. A few years later, SALCO would move several hundred yards to the west.
