When I started my new layout I decided to go with the Fast Tracks jigs initially thinking of purchasing their dual  gauge system which was $150 for the assembly fixture, but realized I would need two, since I would need narrow gauge on both left and right. Since I only needed 6 dual gauge turnouts the cost would not be justified so I settled for a standard gauge #6 code 70 assembly jig. I bought this along with the point / frog tool, and 5 laser cut tie sets.

This train doesn't run very quickly but does a good job of holding track in place while the glue dries.  The smelter yard is in (hopefully) it's final form so the track is being glued, wiring to follow.  I'm using Weldbond to hold the track in place, if I need to make any changes or change out a switch (god forbid) it should be a relatively easy process. 

This is the layout update for early November 2015. The wiring for the Paradigm to Union Station yard limit section (soldering feeders, connections to terminal strips, and connections to the main bus) has been completed. A DCC test of this section of power district 2 has also been successfully completed.  All of the tracks, including sidings, in the new section have been fully tested with DCC without any issues.

This picture shows the area where the DCC wiring has been completed.

I am working on a design for a small scene for demonstrating scenery and track work for out model railroad. It will be small (roughly 1ft. x 1ft. with the front curving) I am looking for design ideas and what an interesting scene would be. Any ideas from those on here?

Thanks for all of your suggestions everyone. Thurmand seemed like a good location and the below area is what we will model. It will include a cantilever signal seen on the right and the three buildings as low relief background structures.