After giving my layout a lot of thought, (in my job I have ample time to over-think anything) I have decided that the best thing to do will be toma. I have also decided that I will model in N scale using ntrak standards. I have therefore thrown out the idea of using the plan I was considering and instead just letting the layout grow. One of the biggest problems I was having was narrowing down what to model. I decided that with ntrak modules I can simply  build a module of whatever I have the fancy to model at the time.

I had a number of little tasks that were blocking me from starting track laying on the Office Park Zone.  I needed to get the removable cassette/extension built. I needed to finish converting my Shinohara turnouts to make them DCC-friendly (rework the points and replace the frogs).  I also wanted to add small wood blocks for additional support under the ends of the track at each benchwork joint.

Now that those tasks are complete, I can start putting the track into place.  Progress!

Has anyone tried the modular system that "locks" in place offered by the company in Texas? Can't recall the name of the outfit. And, has the system worked for you? Advantages, disadvantages?

I bought a 3 pack of these cars, but there is no drawbar to connect the 3 cars together. Are they supposed to come with one or do I have to get it separately?

There is a coupler on 1 end of 2 of the cars, that's it.