Springfield, MO - Springfield Yard (aka Kansas Avenue Yard or West Yard) Routing Information Inquiry

Rick,

The general rule fit the railroad's right hand running pattern. Most north and west bound trains used the north long tracks 1-4. Most east and south bound trains used the south long tracks 1-4.

Long 5 north was generally kept clear as the light engine running track to / from the west end of the yard. Also, it was used by the hostlers to move inbound engines needing their 30 day running inspections from the service tracks to the west end of the diesel shop to Track 8. Track 8 was an assembly line type inspection and service through track with 6 spots (in from the west, out on the east).

Yardmasters had the flexibility to direct use the long tracks as needed. On occasion if the "normal" tracks were occupied, out of service or being actively switched, trains might be routed out of phase to the "normal" pattern. But the general pattern (north tracks for north and west trains and south tracks for east and south trains) was used for most traffic.

Hope this helps.

Thanks!

Mark