Our layout is of a modular design set up that is about 100 feet long and 25 feet wide.  Each member has the ability to design his own part of the world as he desires.  It is designed to be accommodating for visitors so they can walk around the entire layout and see everything.

     As a modular club, the layout can be set up and moved as often as desired.  Each member can build a section that is thirty to thirty-six inches wide by two, four, or six feet long.  At a show the modules fit together and form our layout.  Our layout at the Impression Five Museum features an elaborate yard complete with round house and operating turntable.

     The C.A.R.S. club is an 'operations' oriented club, meaning that during an operating session, a card order system is used to duplicate the movements of real railroads.  Trains are made up in the yard and then moved between Detroit and Chicago.  Along the way, cars are classified and switched to the branch line to be set out and picked up at various industries.  Coordinating these movements can be quite a challenge!

     The lay-out theme is based loosely on the 1940's thorough the 1960's time period and the scenery depicts lower Michigan in general.  However, due to varied interests, don't be surprised to occasionally see a 1990's unit train running on the mainline.

     The Capital Area Railway Society welcomes new members of all backgrounds and skill levels.  Our mission is to promote all aspects of the model railroading hobby while providing a social outlet for members to share ideas and enjoyment of the hobby.