My research resulted in selection of a prototype that was all that and more. The ACR was the ideal challenge. It connected with the CNR and CPR at multiple locations, allowing for diversity in traffic, and opportunity to model additional prototypes. The layout design is L-shaped, double decked, and cantilevered off the walls to avoid use of legs in the viewing area. It measures 22 feet by 18 feet along the outer walls.
Access is gained by a duck under.
This is a long term project, which I estimate could be another ten years before completion. While I couldn't replicate the entire ACR, I decided to capture some of the major points on the railway. The CNR and CPR are represented, each with a closed loop of some 70 odd feet, crossing the ACR at Franz, Oba, and Hearst as on the prototype. The Soo and Hearst subdivision main line totals 280 feet in length. The track is Micro Engineering code 83, with Shinohara turnouts.