During the week of April 13, we measured and hung the masonite backdrops in the Niagara Falls area. Installation was tricky, because the rear wall is curved, we wanted coved corners, we had to accommodate the angles of the sloping ceiling, and we had to cross back and forth over the track that leads to staging. Piece of cake! Thanks to Matt, Otto, Ryan, Max, and others.
We test fit one corner and also quickly mocked up where an overhead highway bridge will cross the scene. Even though it is not in its exact position, it helps give an idea of how the scene will be constructed with this raised element.
Here's a rendering of what the Niagara Falls scene will look like. The heavy lines are backdrops, and you can see how we are using them to disguise the return track to staging. (Click for larger image)
Alumni member Otto ('99) stands with some of the test-fit pieces a couple of days before their final installation.
The Niagara Falls deck with all of the backdrop hung.
The Niagara Food Terminal scene will be in the foreground, as the mainline ducks behind the backdrop, but then emerges once again to descend the ramp down to Bailly Jct. and the helix to staging. Easy!
This end will be home to some chemical unloading tracks, and was further complicated by the number of angles that had to be cut. The exit for the main line tracks will be cut out with a Dremel since the exact position is not yet known, and we want to make the smallest hole possible.
We also made a jump start on some of the benchwork that will support our Irondequoit Yard scene near the entrance. The black cabinets will be relocated higher to accommodate the trains.
We'll be hosting our first Open House as part of the Imagine RIT Festival on May 4, 2013! We can't guarantee trains will be running into Niagara Falls, but we'll have plenty to show off. Come join us!
