Getting Real column - 2
Figure 4 shows the helix as viewed from the platform track area
of Shreveport Union Station. The Union Station, and backdrop,
will hide the helix. The platform tracks extend through the sta-
tion and the center of the helix enabling the station to handle
longer trains.
Supports for the helix were adapted where the tracks from
the return loop enter and exit. Half-inch plywood, 1” PVC
pipe, and threaded rod were used to create this custom sup-
port (5).
Fitting the bridges
Once the helix was completed, I spent some time planning for
and fitting the various bridges into the plywood sub-roadbed. A
Micro-Engineering double track through girder bridge was fit-
ted in place at Grandview, Missouri (6).
2: Helix upper level.
2
MRH-Jan 2013
