SC4 Devotion Forum Archives

City Showcase (All games welcome) => SC4D Mayors' Diary Hall of Fame => Topic started by: Tarkus on June 17, 2007, 08:31:07 PM

Title: Tarkusian Cities (Update 107-08/23/2020-West Chemeketa Reconfig, Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on June 17, 2007, 08:31:07 PM
The MD that's always "under construction": Tarkusian Cities follows the travails of various municipal transportation bodies across a number of different SC4 regions in an "alternate universe" version of Western North America.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

LATEST UPDATE:
UPDATE 107 (8/23/2020)-West Chemeketa Reconfig, Part 1 (https://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg535381#msg535381)

NOTE: Due to changes in imagehosting availability over the years (ImageShack's conversion to a paid model, and Majhost's closure), images from Updates 6, 9, 13, 14, and 39 through 86 are currently unavailable.  Rest assured, the images still reside safely on my hard drive(s), but due to the sheer number of missing images, RL and other SC4 commitments, and the effort that it will take to restore them, there is no timeline for when the lost images will be restored.  Apologies for the inconvenience, and thank you for your understanding and patience. -Alex/Tarkus

INTRO (6/17/2007) (see below)
UPDATE 1 (7/1/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg48593#msg48593)--Mosaic of Downtown Wakeman
UPDATE 2 (7/3/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg48903#msg48903)--Obligatory Curvy Road Mosaic
UPDATE 3 (7/5/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg49316#msg49316)--Wide S-Curve Tutorial
UPDATE 4 (7/8/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg50126#msg50126)--Construction+Map
UPDATE 5 (8/3/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg56675#msg56675)--Mini-Mosaic and More Construction
UPDATE 6 (8/29/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg65237#msg65237)--Argentum Revisted--Part 1
UPDATE 7 (9/3/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg67144#msg67144)--More Construction in Wakeman
UPDATE 8 (9/6/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg68176#msg68176)--Suburbia Arrives
UPDATE 9 (9/15/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=90a92cdfb7adc0e53f7dcd9e8b57fa85&topic=1555.msg71293#msg71293)--Map Fever Part I, Sneak Peek at Highway 32
UPDATE 10 (10/1/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=65299108c265883446206e54ac4b19ad&topic=1555.msg76696#msg76696)--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1
UPDATE 11 (10/5/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=a8320d675a453f5ec7254b79b084364d&topic=1555.msg78226#msg78226)--Argentum Revisited--Part 2
UPDATE 12 (10/6/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg78524#msg78524)--Argentum Revisited--Part 3
UPDATE 13 (10/8/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg78865#msg78865)--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan
UPDATE 14 (10/8/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg79122#msg79122)--The Highway Plan in Action . . .
UPDATE 15 (11/1/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg86608#msg86608)--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview
UPDATE 16 (11/11/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg89765#msg89765)--The MIS Arrives . . .
UPDATE 17 (11/19/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg92240#msg92240)--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek
UPDATE 18 (12/30/2007) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg103369#msg103369)--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .
UPDATE 19 (1/2/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg104554#msg104554)--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1
Update 19.5/Teaser (1/4/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg104950#msg104950)--Map Teaser
UPDATE 20 (1/15/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg108411#msg108411)--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange
UPDATE 21 (1/23/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg111886#msg111886)--Map Tutorial
UPDATE 22 (2/4/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg116162#msg116162)--Old Highway Meets New, Part I
UPDATE 23 (2/8/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg117111#msg117111)--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic
UPDATE 24 (2/12/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=a2e18bb0994a947365834a55a9899c84&topic=1555.msg118466#msg118466)--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2
UPDATE 25 (2/29/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=88d7923937ccaeb2cc0d7810e5c67695&topic=1555.msg124952#msg124952)--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1
Update 25.5/Teaser (3/25/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg130877#msg130877)--Teaser with 2 New mods . . .
UPDATE 26 (4/6/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg136694#msg136694)--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue
UPDATE 27 (4/11/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg137856#msg137856)--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned
UPDATE 28 (5/18/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg148671#msg148671)--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension
UPDATE 29 (6/17/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg159047#msg159047)--1st Anniversary
UPDATE 30 (6/24/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg161058#msg161058)--Peninsula City
UPDATE 31 (7/3/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg163813#msg163813)--A New Airport?
Update 31.5 (7/9/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg165128#msg165128)--Argentum Map Teaser
UPDATE 32 (7/15/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg166623#msg166623)--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft
UPDATE 33 (7/30/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg169473#msg169473)--Argentum Blvd North End Realign
UPDATE 34 (8/1/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg169851#msg169851)--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project
UPDATE 35 (8/21/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg174533#msg174533)--Introducing the City of Los Endos
UPDATE 36 (8/28/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg175843#msg175843)--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment
UPDATE 37 (8/29/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg176216#msg176216)--Highway 94/33 Interchange
Update 37.5 (9/12/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg179947#msg179947)--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser
UPDATE 38 (9/25/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg183497#msg183497)--Los Endos Blvd Widening
UPDATE 39 (10/3/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg186056#msg186056)--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?
UPDATE 40 (10/24/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg192875#msg192875)--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview
UPDATE 41 (10/30/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg194542#msg194542)--Lenox
UPDATE 42 (11/4/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg196246#msg196246)--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection
Update 42.25 (12/1/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg204442#msg204442)--The Calm Before The Storm . . .
UPDATE 43 (12/18/2008) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg208722#msg208722)--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway
UPDATE 44 (1/21/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg216690;#msg216690)--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill
UPDATE 45 (1/24/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg217452#msg217452)--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange
UPDATE 46 (2/18/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg223305#msg223305)--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects
UPDATE 47 (3/17/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg231450#msg231450)--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects
UPDATE 48 (3/24/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg233271#msg233271)--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange
UPDATE 49 (4/30/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg242640#msg242640)--Squire
UPDATE 50 (5/3/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg242640#msg242640)--Tarkusian Videos?!
UPDATE 51 (5/15/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg246366#msg246366)--More E. Los Endos Construction
UPDATE 52 (6/23/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg255152#msg255152)--Downtown Los Endos
UPDATE 53 (6/24/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg255330#msg255330)--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos
Update 53.5 (7/27/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg262229#msg262229)--Big Los Endos Regional Map Teaser
UPDATE 54 (9/6/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg273683#msg273683)--I'll Be The Roundabout
UPDATE 55 (9/20/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg276362#msg276362)--Arboris
UPDATE 56 (10/27/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg283454#msg283454)--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I
UPDATE 57 (11/1/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg284559#msg284559)--Seven Islands Pkwy, Phase I
UPDATE 58 (11/22/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg289845#msg289845)--Welcome back, my friends . . .
UPDATE 59 (11/30/2009) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg291455#msg291455)--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening
UPDATE 60 (4/30/2010) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg322940#msg322940)--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening
UPDATE 61 (5/18/2010) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg326458#msg326458)--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet
UPDATE 62 (6/10/2010) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg330131#msg330131)--Chemeketa: A Look Around
UPDATE 63 (7/17/2010) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg335740#msg335740)--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project
UPDATE 64 (10/4/2010) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg347412#msg347412)--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2
UPDATE 65 (2/10/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg365928#msg365928)--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3
UPDATE 66 (2/13/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg366530#msg366530)--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic
UPDATE 67 (2/16/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg366947#msg366947)--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing, Part 1
UPDATE 68 (2/20/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg367567#msg367567)--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing, Part 2
UPDATE 69 (2/25/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg368269#msg368269)--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing, Part 3
UPDATE 70 (3/7/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg369901#msg369901)--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing, Part 4
UPDATE 71 (3/14/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg370715#msg370715)--Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 1.1
UPDATE 72 (3/26/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg372109#msg372109)--Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 1.2
UPDATE 73 (4/3/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg373288#msg373288)--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest"
UPDATE 74 (4/17/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg375209#msg375209)--Chemeketa: Rankine-Dallas Corridor, Part 1
UPDATE 75 (6/3/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg382077#msg382077)--Chemeketa: Rankine-Dallas Corridor, Part 2
UPDATE 76 (6/6/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg382662#msg382662)--Chemeketa: Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements
UPDATE 77 (6/15/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg383866#msg383866)--Chemeketa: 52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1
UPDATE 78 (6/23/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg385072#msg385072)--Chemeketa: McCabe Street Extension
UPDATE 79 (7/14/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg386830#msg386830)--Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension
UPDATE 80 (7/22/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg387925#msg387925)--Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Part 2.1
INTERLUDE (10/30/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg401472#msg401472)--Moving Forward
UPDATE 81 (12/17/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg406978#msg406978)--Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Part 2.2
UPDATE 82 (12/22/2011) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg407552#msg407552)--Chemeketa: 52nd Avenue Project, Part 3
UPDATE 83 (1/1/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg408368#msg408368)--Chemeketa: Hwy 15--39th Avenue NE Interchange
UPDATE 84 (1/4/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg408731#msg408731)--Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension
UPDATE 85 (1/15/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg410248#msg410248)--Chemeketa: Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Introducing Highway 215
UPDATE 86 (2/5/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg413126#msg413126)--Chemeketa: Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A
UPDATE 87 (3/20/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg418237#msg418237)--Chemeketa: Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B
UPDATE 88 (3/22/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg418408#msg418408)--Chemeketa: Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4
UPDATE 89 (4/23/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg421475#msg421475)--Chemeketa: Wallace Road NW Widening
UPDATE 90 (4/27/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg421890#msg421890)--Chemeketa: Greenwich Extension Bridge, Highway 221 Work
UPDATE 91 (8/14/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg430903#msg430903)--Chemeketa: Highway 36/Sorenson Street Project, Part 1
UPDATE 92 (8/17/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg431088#msg431088)--Chemeketa: Highway 36/Sorenson Street Project, Part 2
UPDATE 93 (8/30/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg432218#msg432218)--Chemeketa: East Chemeketa Developments
UPDATE 94 (9/3/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg432493#msg432493)--Chemeketa: Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1
UPDATE 95 (10/21/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg436713#msg436713)--Chemeketa: Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 2
UPDATE 96 (11/16/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg439698#msg439698)--Tarkusian Cities: Old and New
UPDATE 97 (11/19/2012) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg439953#msg439953)--Chemeketa: Region Views
UPDATE 98 (5/10/2013) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg459426#msg459426)--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension
UPDATE 99 (6/10/2013) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg461458#msg461458)--New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1
UPDATE 100 (11/29/2013) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg473028#msg473028)-Chemeketa Planning-OSITM 1
UPDATE 101 (11/30/2013) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg473099#msg473099)-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 2-OSITM 2
UPDATE 102 (12/3/2013) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg473400#msg473400)-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 3
UPDATE 103 (6/14/2017) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg518719#msg518719)-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4
UPDATE 104 (6/17/2017) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg518761#msg518761)-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5
UPDATE 105 (7/17/2018) (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg526395#msg526395)-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6
UPDATE 106 (8/3/2020) (https://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg535284#msg535284)-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview
UPDATE 107 (8/23/2020) (https://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg535381#msg535381)-West Chemeketa Reconfig, Part 1

. . . INTRO . . .



Well, after a little hiatus, I am back with a new MD.  This time around, I'm going to be taking the "multi-region" approach, which means there will be some variety, and maybe even a few surprises.

The region I'm about to show you is one that I'll probably focus on for quite some time, Cascadia Gorge. 

Here's a region shot, taken back before the majority of the development had started.  The map I'm using is the NHP Kinbasket Lake map, by beskhu3epnm and Heblem.  I've "desertified" it (as I am prone to doing) with c.p.'s Grand Canyon terrain mod.  My main inspiration for this region is again one in RL, the section of the Columbia River Gorge that forms the border between Oregon and Washington for some 150 miles, an area which I'm quite familiar with.

(https://i.imgur.com/sv8943k.jpg)

Here's a few pics from Wakeman, the largest city in the region at the moment.  Population-wise at the moment, it's around 6,000, but growing quickly.

Downtown, facing east along South Market Street, near 9th and 10th Avenues.  The architectural style in downtown Wakeman is a rather unusual mix, taking from typical small-town America along with some old European influences:

(https://i.imgur.com/9ed4JAO.jpg)

Plus the occasional fast food joint:
(https://i.imgur.com/refvZRW.jpg)

Here's a suburban area on the outskirts, at the intersection of South 22nd Avenue and Gilmour Street (facing south on 22nd):
(https://i.imgur.com/RAwJ3Dt.jpg)

And so you know where all this stuff actually is . . . wait for it . . . a map. :D  This covers the entire city tile where Wakeman is situated.
(https://i.imgur.com/S3OfAle.png) (https://imgur.com/S3OfAle.png)

Here's a key for it:
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/mapkeyko3.jpg)


Finally, here's a few random shots from around the region, some of the roadways through the more remote areas around the gorge. 

Hwy 89, just south of Wakeman
(https://i.imgur.com/s13yfaC.jpg)

Belew Mountain Road
(https://i.imgur.com/dNyz9c9.jpg)

Abacab Pass Highway, along Abacab Creek
(https://i.imgur.com/e3U2S52.jpg)

I will be back at some point with updates on development in Wakeman, as well as some more random road eyecandy, and possibly some unexpected stuff. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: Filasimo on June 17, 2007, 08:44:33 PM
awesome start Alex! cant wait to see more of your region!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: Pat on June 17, 2007, 08:49:43 PM

  :thumbsup:&apls &apls &apls &apls :thumbsup:
OooooooOOOOOooooooooOOOOO its here finaly here omg sweet Alex im so glad you are doing anther
md i and cant wait to see what you show off next  ;) - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: BigSlark on June 17, 2007, 10:08:25 PM
Tarkus,

Welcome back to the MD world. Like the first update, I think that we transit geeks will be spending a lot of time here...

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: bat on June 18, 2007, 01:28:54 AM
Welcome back!

Great region you have there! Also a wonderful "roadmap" and the other pictures are also looking fantastic! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: tooheys on June 18, 2007, 02:10:10 AM
Nothing like a challenging landscape to start off with. I'm not familiar with your earlier CJ's being a bit of a newbie, but going by the previous comments it sounds like I will definitely need to keep an eye on this.

Nice pic's and I also like to see how various transport networks grow.

Looking forward to more.

Cheers
Dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: thundercrack83 on June 18, 2007, 01:52:16 PM
Outstanding! Welcome back, Alex! That region shot at the beginning looks brilliant, and as always, I love the maps. I will definitely be following along here!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: cityhawk on June 18, 2007, 04:44:56 PM
Nice region, Alex! And nice winding roads as well! I shall keep an eye or two on this one! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: rickmastfan67 on June 18, 2007, 07:00:33 PM
Looking good there Tarkus. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: thundercrack83 on June 18, 2007, 07:49:27 PM
Whoa, whoa! Wait a second! I just realized something, Alex...No RHW in any of those pictures?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: HabLeUrG on June 18, 2007, 07:54:56 PM
Of course will keep looking at this MD, incredible job  :thumbsup: &apls and many thanks that you are using our maps  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: wouanagaine on June 18, 2007, 11:58:30 PM
Amazing winding road and very interesting region
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: Shadow Assassin on June 19, 2007, 12:27:13 AM
A nice start. I like how the town's laid out.

Waiting to see you make use of your RHW. :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: HabLeUrG on June 26, 2007, 01:08:08 AM
can't wait for more my friend, hehe  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: Pat on June 26, 2007, 01:16:12 AM
Quote from: thundercrack83 on June 18, 2007, 07:49:27 PM
Whoa, whoa! Wait a second! I just realized something, Alex...No RHW in any of those pictures?

I agree i just noticed that as well what in the world Happened here Alex, Dustin is so correct
no RHW  ()what() ()what() ()what()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: RichGray on June 26, 2007, 06:10:58 AM
i just downloaded that terrain texture, and i think the trees look brilliant. :satisfied: Which set is it?  I personally think the commercial area is average, but you use a good mix of lots in it.(unlike me, you can be bothered to actually download commercial lots!) The region looks great, and i hope to see more of your  country roads. Keep it up!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities
Post by: Jmouse on June 27, 2007, 11:12:42 AM
Hey you guys, scoot over and make room for one more in the circle - I want to watch the transit network develop, too  ()stsfd()!
My, but you've set yourself up with quite a challenge, Tarkus. Where is the city with McDs located on the region map. It doesn't look like there's a single tile suitable for development, but I guess looks can be deceiving.
Anyway, glad you decided to share your work with us.

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: Tarkus on July 01, 2007, 06:29:28 PM
Hi everyone-

My apologies for the lack of updates here.  Been busy with moving and helping run a music festival, which will be done in about 1.5 weeks, and I didn't have internet for almost a week.  But I'm (sort of) back, and I have plenty of new stuff--too much to show in just one update. ;)

Well, anyways, here's a shot of essentially the entire city of Wakeman, facing east.  As you can see, it's still quite small.  Population is about 7,000 at this point.
(https://i.imgur.com/vbl4kjG.jpg)

Here's a few more shots from downtown Wakeman:

This is facing east along South Market Street near 5th Avenue, looking at the Library and Post Office.
(https://i.imgur.com/uuNE3fM.jpg)

And a mosaic of a portion of downtown, mostly centered along Market Street (which is the "main drag" through downtown), facing west, between 10th and 6th.  (My first attempt at this sort of thing . . .)

(https://i.imgur.com/fJSX5B8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Z5ujroy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/IRRhnnF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i0jugYY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/wxiMSRP.jpg)


A few other shots from around Wakeman:

This is looking south, down South 22nd Avenue toward Wakeman Boulevard (Hwy 24/89 multiplexed).  As you can see, suburbia is starting to enroach on farmland.
(https://i.imgur.com/agESIAq.jpg)

This is just west of downtown, a residential area.  The major thoroughfare toward the bottom of the picture is South Gilmour Street.
(https://i.imgur.com/hvAEFKS.jpg)

And here's a few shots along South 11th Avenue.  11th is the major north-south thoroughfare through Wakeman, connecting downtown with Highways 24 and 89, becoming 89 on the other side of Wakeman Boulevard.  As a result, it's a thriving commercial area.  It wouldn't be a complete town in the Pacific Northwest without the obligatory Starbucks.  (Facing east toward 11th)
(https://i.imgur.com/PiIWADq.jpg)

And the busiest intersection in town, 11th and Gilmour.  It's so busy that the intersection is far over its capacity, resulting in many serious accidents.  (Facing south on 11th)
(https://i.imgur.com/lOxDBhu.jpg)

However, the city's public works department has acquired funding to improve this vital corridor, and construction has already begun.  (Again, facing south on 11th)
(https://i.imgur.com/3kJWEtP.jpg)

You'll see more of the South 11th Avenue Corridor Improvement Project in future updates.

And the obligatory curvy road picture.  This is in the remote northern part of the region, along Highway 16:
(https://i.imgur.com/VLuTfbJ.jpg)

Now for comments:

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks for the compliments and being the first to comment!  And congrats on your new NAMite status!
Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks!  I'm glad to be back.  There will be plenty more where that came from. ;)
Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, man! I hope this will satisfy your transit geek fix. ;)  And others' too.
bat:  Thanks, I'm excited to be back with this new MD, and I'm especially glad to hear you liked the map.
Dave (tooheys):  Thanks for the compliments!  If you're wanting to see transit networks grow, hopefully the next few updates will be to your liking.  As far as my previous MD attempts, my only previous attempt was the short-lived Argentum, which can be found here (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=932.0).  I may actually revisit that region in a future update as well.
Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks!  I'm glad to hear the opening shots were to your liking, and I'll have some more maps in the next update or two. ;)
cityhawk:  Thanks!  Glad to hear you like the region, and the winding roads have been great fun to build, so I'm happy to hear that people like them.
rickmastfan67:  Thanks for the compliment! 
Dustin (thundercrack83):  Yes, indeed, there isn't a single RHW in any of those pics.  In fact, as of right now there aren't any RHWs (other than the 2-lane version) anywhere in the entire region.  (There's no Maxis highways, either, though.)  It won't stay that way for long, though. ;)  I've got more than a few surprises in store.
HabLeUrG:  Thanks for the compliments, and thanks for being involved in creating such a fine map. :thumbsup:  I've gotten a great deal of enjoyment out of building on it.
wouanagaine:  Thanks for the compliments and for stopping by!  There will be more winding roads in future updates as well. ;)
Shadow Assassin:  Thanks, I'm flattered to hear that the town layout is to your liking.  I've got some interesting things planned for it in the next few updates.  And the RHW may just show up eventually in some form . . .
HabLeUrG:  I can't either. :D
Pat (patfirefghtr):  You will see quite soon. ;)
RichGray:  If you're wondering about the trees, those are the trees by c.p. (aka cycledogg).  They should be up on the LEX.  I'm glad to hear you like the region and the country roads, and thanks for the very constructive critique on my commercial area--I will put it to good use. :thumbsup: 
Joan (Jmouse):  Yes, I guess I did give myself a bit of a challenge. :D  It's been quite fun, though.  If you're wondering where the city with the McDs is (Wakeman), it's on one of the few larger flat areas on the map, the peninsula toward the middle.  Here's a more recent region shot, where you can see where Wakeman is.
(https://i.imgur.com/TPfktdF.jpg)

Thanks for all the support and comments everyone!  I'll be back with more soon. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)









Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: Filasimo on July 01, 2007, 06:57:35 PM
ur very welcome alex and a fabulous update i love the construction addition towards the end really adds realism perhaps it gives me an idea we need to create some construction sign props if noone has thought of that yet or even improve on the construction set and add orange barrels along the side of the construction lot...just some ideas for anyone willing to take on the idea....and thanks for giving me the great opportunity in joining u guys.  cant wait for more updates its looking really good  :thumbsup:
Ryan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: Jmouse on July 01, 2007, 07:15:32 PM
Nice update, Tarkus. The mosaic is especially attractive. Have you thought of adding some irrigation canals to the AG areas, though? The region's surface texture has an arid look to it, and visible water sources might be appropriate.
Until next time ...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 01, 2007, 07:41:49 PM
Looks good, Alex! I love the development you've got going on and the "obligatory curvy road" picture looks great, too! But my favorite one is the mosaic! Great job, my friend! I'll be looking forward to seeing more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: BigSlark on July 01, 2007, 09:23:20 PM
Alex,

Looks great, man! You have lots and lots of space to expand...and do neat projects that involve RHWMIS ( ;) ;)).

I really like the mosaic, I'll have to check that tutorial out.

One thing I do notice, however, is the lack of railroads. I know the Northern Pacific, Great Northern, Spokane, Portland, & Seattle, Union Pacific, and Milwaukee Road all built branches in the region in the late 19th/early 20th century...

Just my two cents.

I can't wait to see your legendary construction projects and more of the high desert landscape.

Cheers,
Kevin

Edit: As soon as I started writing this reply EL&P's "Roundabout" starting playing on the radio. You must've requested it, Alex!  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: HabLeUrG on July 01, 2007, 09:31:21 PM
yeah lot of space for to do, thats an excellent work and very well done  &apls

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: Pat on July 01, 2007, 10:03:55 PM

Alex wow what a wonderful update and love the ruby tuesdays crash LoL
Dang tourist not looking where they stand LoL see you next update - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 1-7/1/2007)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on July 01, 2007, 11:29:14 PM
Looks good. :P

I can see where you're planning on putting one of the Widened Networks (maybe the 6-C?). :P South 11th Avenue. :P There's a 2 tile gap available for something like that. :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: Tarkus on July 03, 2007, 02:41:50 AM
Another update?! :o   I know this goes against my usual style, but here's Update 2.  Well, seen as how I had a mosaic and an obligatory curvy road picture last time, I thought . . . why not combine the two?  Here's an obligatory curvy road mosaic. :D

This is again looking south along Belew Mountain Road, which is located on the eastern edge of the map.  This fairly desolate spot, using the existing road networks, could be reached from Wakeman after about an 8 mile journey. 

(https://i.imgur.com/l300v5Q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/j6cSo7q.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/b8Pprlm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XG4qreZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y1IzNL1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9hnaMiF.jpg)

Now onto comments:
Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks for the compliments, and I'm glad to hear you liked the construction shots.  Some additional construction props would definitely be a nice thing . . . I've considered doing it at various times.  It may have to be a project I undertake soon . . .
And we're glad to have you on the NAM. ;)
Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks--I'm happy to hear you liked the mosaic.  You definitely brought up a good point with the irrigation canals.  That's something I've thought about doing, and I know I have SimGoober's canals lying around somewhere on my HD.  Of course, those farms probably won't last too much longer given how quickly Wakeman is growing. ;)  Thanks for the excellent suggestion!
Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the compliments!  I was rather curious to see how the mosaic came out--that was my first attempt. ;)
Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks!  Yes, I do have a fair amount of room to expand right around Wakeman.  Of course, that's one of the few flat pieces of land in the area. 

There is a railroad running near Wakeman, but it's about 2 miles away from downtown (it should be on the map from the intro post).  Not sure how realistic that is, though, and given that I usually strive quite hard for realism in my transit networks, and you're quite knowledgeable on railroads, I really appreciate your feedback on that. I will definitely be working some more rail in for future updates. :) 

And as far as using the RHWMIS, you'll be seeing plenty of that soon.  I have some reallywild stuff planned, including some crazy new pieces for the RHWMIS.  They will debut quite soon . . .  ;)

(Actually, Yes did "Roundabout".  But that is rather coincidental timing I must admit.  There's actually some prog rock references laced throughout this MD--the map for instance. ;))

HabLeUrG:  Thanks for the compliments.  You should see more of that space going to (hopefully) interesting uses as the MD progresses.

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks!  Yeah, I was rather amused by that particular crash shot.  I had thought about aligning the construction such that the Ruby Tuesday was in its path just so I could make cheesy puns involving a certain Rolling Stones song.  (You're all probably thankful I didn't.)  But that would have taken out most of the commercial district there on 11th, and I had space on the other side.  We may have to do something about those tourists, though.  ;)

Shadow Assassin: Thanks for the compliments!  As far as South 11th Avenue being updated to some sort of NWM setup, you're exactly right. ;)  You'll see the results of it over the next few updates.  And it's not going to be an RHW-6C, or any other RHW.  But there will be some RHW action soon. ;)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: tooheys on July 03, 2007, 03:25:35 AM
Looks like you have something here to challenge the Pikes Peak hill climb.

Some might think what you have done is a simple process, but taking into account slopes, cross slopes, slope mods
etc, it isn't an easy task to a get a result like you have achieved here.  :thumbsup:

Wakeman looks good with some nice pic's Well done with the mosaic. ;)

Cheers

Dave



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: dedgren on July 03, 2007, 07:25:48 AM
Hey Alex- Those brown sparely vegetated hills and winding roads remind me of some drives I've made in eastern Oregon,  You've also shown yourself to have quite the ear when it comes to capturing that "Main Street" western town sensibility.  I've lurked 'til now in your new MD- consider this getting back in the swing of things.

Good luck!


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: Filasimo on July 03, 2007, 08:24:53 AM
 ill have to make sure i get a barf bag from driving those winedy roads that will make me go dizzy!  ??? nice road update and yes we do need more construction highway props
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: flame1396 on July 03, 2007, 08:50:50 AM
For farming try those round farms you see a lot in New Mexico and Arizona. Those look good in game.

(to zone it use the radius of a police or fire station or anything else really)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: Jmouse on July 03, 2007, 11:20:16 AM
Another very nice mosaic, Alex. Believe me, I know from experience how much work went into constructing that curvy stretch of road. Just don't plop any pubs along the road or it'll soon be lined with rusty little smashed up Simcars!  :D

Until next time ...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: jimmymac on July 03, 2007, 11:38:15 AM
A very nice start I must say, I love the mosaics, having just done my first couple for some upcoming updates I know how tough they can be to begin with, but yours look  very nice, am looking forward to seeing more  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: beskhu3epnm on July 03, 2007, 07:01:26 PM
King Alex,

Enjoying the Kinbasket map I see? Had I known it looked so cool with that painted desert mod, I probably would have used that for the upload image when creating the map :-[!!!!!

I know you are the "transportation man" and it really shows with your attention to detail regarding the layout of the town streets. Very realistic.

Keep this thing going!! I know it is hard to find the time...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: Pat on July 03, 2007, 09:26:51 PM
Quote from: Filasimo on July 03, 2007, 08:24:53 AM
ill have to make sure i get a barf bag from driving those winedy roads that will make me go dizzy!  ??? nice road update and yes we do need more construction highway props

Yuppers eaxcltey what Ryan said.... I have a bad case of i wanna puke after trying to make my way
threw Belew Mnt Rd.... Alex this is a fantastic Mosaic - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: BigSlark on July 03, 2007, 09:45:59 PM
Alex,

I love the curvy road mosaic. You and David have convinced me to try my hand at the same concept. I'm getting there but damn, that's harder to do than it looks!

And yes, we all thank you for not making the cheesy Rolling Stones joke. Although, in my experience, "Goodbye Ruby Tuesday" wouldn't be that bad of a thing...

I'm looking forward to more once RLS subsides!

And have a happy 4th of July. Apparently in the land that wasn't the Confederacy they make a bigger deal of it. :D :P

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 2-7/3/2007)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 04, 2007, 09:47:17 PM
A great curvy road mosaic from the man who made the curvy roads! I can't wait to see more, my friend. Happy belated 4th!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: Tarkus on July 05, 2007, 02:20:52 AM
Hi everyone-

Just thought I'd post a little tutorial about a small discovery I've made with the curve puzzle pieces.  Don't know how useful this will be to too many people, but I thought it was worth sharing.

Basically, I found a way to create a longer S-Curve using the 45-Curve pieces.  (Sorry for the gridlines. :-[)

At any rate, here's what it looked like at the start.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u3-1-tutorial.jpg)

In order for it to look right, you'll need to flatten the ground.  I basically placed Street stubs in the path of where the puzzle pieces will go.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u3-2-tutorial.jpg)

Then, place the first 45-Curve puzzle piece.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u3-3-tutorial.jpg)

And here's the trick.  The way the end stubs are set up on the 45-Curve (thanks to a few minor alterations memo made the RULs, which are included in the NAM), it is actually possible to place two end-to-end.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u3-4-tutorial.jpg)

And . . . voila.  A bigger S-Curve.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u3-5-tutorial.jpg)

I'll have more to update here soon. ;)

Now onto comments:
Dave (tooheys):  Yes, that really is a steep slope. :D   I rather like the idea of a Belew Mountain Hill Climb.  It was a bit difficult to build that road, but I've had to do it so many times with this region that the repetition has helped.  I also figured out a fairly effective "undo" method when I screw up as well, besides just exiting the city tile, which helps. :D  Thanks for the compliments and for stopping by!

David (dedgren):  You got me out of lurking over at 3RR quite some time ago, so I guess it was my turn this time. :D  Thank you very much for the kind words; it means a lot to me to know I'm headed down the right track.  Consider yourself a Tarkusian Cities regular. ;)  And thanks for wishing me good luck.  I'll need it. :D

Ryan (Filasimo):  lol. Barf bag.  That really gave me a chuckle.  :D  I must admit, Belew Mountain Road is pretty darn windy, though. ;)  I'd be more worried about the lack of guardrails myself.  Those are some dangerous curves [linkage] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Power_to_Believe).  Thanks for the highly entertaining comment. ;)

flame1396:  Thanks for the suggestion on the farms--I really appreciate it.  You'll probably be seeing some more farms in one of the next few updates. ;)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks!  It was rather tricky, but I think it was definitely worth the effort.  At least I hope it was. :D  Don't worry, I'm not putting a pub there.  That would really make a mess.   ::)

jimmymac:  Thanks for the compliments!  I actually figured out a couple of tricks with mosaic making which made things a little easier.  I actually used the in-game camera for it instead of doing the "Print Screen" method on this second mosaic, and it turned out to be way easier.  I'm looking forward to seeing your mosaics in Shaping Invermere Valley. 

beskhu3epnm:  I'm not sure if I'm quite royalty yet, but thanks! :)  I haven't even rolled out the crazy transit modding stuff yet. :D  I must tip my hat to you for bringing this map into existence.  I've really had a blast with it.  Part of the reason I've left myself the option of making it a "multi-region" MD is because there's so many fine maps you NHP guys have made that I can't resist the opportunity to try out another.   :D  I think I may have my groove going now, so I'll do my best to keep it up.  Thanks for the compliments on the street network layout as well.  That's something I really enjoy doing, so I'm always flattered when someone compliments me on it. 

Pat (patfirefghtr):  You too with the barf bag? Perhaps I should BAT a barf bag dispensary station to put at the base of Belew Mountain. :D  I'm glad to hear you like the mosaic as well.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks for the kind words about the mosaic!  You'll get the hang of the curve pieces soon enough, I'm sure. ;)  I've been to Ruby Tuesday twice--there's a few of them here in Oregon.  Personally, I prefer Red Robin, though the Turkey Burgers at Ruby Tuesday's are okay if I remember right.  Perhaps if I need to widen 11th further . . . it is a very busy street. :D

Hope you and everyone else who celebrated the 4th enjoyed the holiday as well.  I didn't really get the day off, so it was kind of weird.  ::)

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the compliments!  I do have to give quite a bit of credit to David (dedgren) and memo as well, though. ;)  There will be more very soon, and I may even have some stuff to satisfy your map cravings with the next update or two. ;)  Some things have changed.  Happy belated 4th as well! :)

-Alex





Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: Pat on July 05, 2007, 10:37:10 AM

LoL it was just that day when i viewed it... my tummie was woosie as is and wow LoL...
thank you for the tut and btw where are the curve pieces LoL - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: jplumbley on July 05, 2007, 10:44:02 AM
Ugh... Alex.  You're work is always so great.  Im glad to be following in your coattails and learning from you.  Hurry up and teach me puzzle pieces LOL.  Then I can get a prototype for SAM working.  I think its time you an I had another pow-wow session.  Last time we got Lakeyboy's Slip Lanes working.

I love the map your using!  It is a perfect map to show examples of what those Curves can do!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: Jmouse on July 05, 2007, 10:59:51 AM
Love the S-curve, Alex, and thanks for the tut. The curved RR puzzle pieces disappear on any kind of slope, so it's good to know the roads remain visible.
Mmmm, suppose there's a chance you would reveal your little "undo" trick?

Until next time ...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 05, 2007, 11:15:33 AM
Hey, Alex!

That S-Curve looks great! That's a nice little tutorial you posted there--short, concise, outstanding. I'll be implementing this when I finally get around to actually playing the game. And I'll be waiting to see what kinds of maps you have going, too!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: Filasimo on July 05, 2007, 11:55:07 AM
very creative way of make an S-Curve Alex cant wait to see what other tricks u got up ur sleeve
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: sebes on July 05, 2007, 03:13:01 PM
Alex... so here did you go with your great maps and road building ! Glad I finally found your MD. Next time, make sure to announce a new start. You are making a great spectacle again !
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: BigSlark on July 05, 2007, 03:15:25 PM
Alex,

I now have to rebuild a couple of areas of small s-curves. Its so simple yet brilliant and undiscovered, until now.

So...when is the next update?

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: mjig_dudy on July 07, 2007, 03:54:09 AM
oops! I missed this...  &mmm

I must say, that road building with the curved puzzle pieces is some of the best i've seen, it looks so realistic. &apls

You have some interesting place names there too... $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: flame1396 on July 07, 2007, 08:24:03 AM
Cool.... I thought that I could never get the longer S-Curve looking right... (like a RUL mistake) and that It could never look good. I was too confident in the slope friendliness apparantly! I'll be awaiting that farm update  ;D but heck.... roads are good too  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 3-7/5/2007--Wide S-Curve Tutorial)
Post by: dedgren on July 08, 2007, 10:12:47 AM
...I've seen those curves somewhere before...

Excellent, Alex!  I've got improved textures for the wide curves kicking around the computer somewhere about 90% finished.  We should have these puppies nailed fairly shortly.

Tarkusian Cities, unless I miss my guess, will move up a category in the next day or two.  Couldn't happen to a better project!


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Tarkus on July 08, 2007, 06:34:20 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update.  Today, it's back to Wakeman to look at a few new developments changing the face of town.

You may remember the commercial strip along South 11th Avenue:
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-1-gilmour-11th-before.jpg)

Now that area has sprung a sizeable new residential development.  (Public Works had better hurry up with the South 11th project . . .)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-2-gilmour-11th-after.jpg)

Just north of downtown, major changes are occurring at the intersection of S 11th and Banks Way.  In the city's transportation plan, this will soon be a major intersection.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-3-banks-11th-timelapse1.jpg)

As part of the first phase, Banks Way is being extended all the way to South 6th Avenue,
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-4-banksextension.jpg)

to further accomodate traffic headed for the new Cascadia State University campus (one of the few Maxis buildings in the entire city)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-5-banks-11th-timelapse2.jpg)

And the university has brought further commercial development.  Public Works also decided to extend the S 11th Widening Project down to this end of town.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-6-banks-11th-timelapse3.jpg)

A new park on the other side of the university
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-7-universitypark1.jpg)

And just on the other side of the park, another massive construction project is under way . . .
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u4-8-universitypark2.jpg)

And as promised, here's the updated map.  If you compare it to the last version [linkage] (http://img77.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakemantn8.png), you'll notice a few other changes besides the Banks Way extension.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/ag-map-34-wakeman-withconstsite.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/ag-map-34-wakeman-withconstsite.png)

Now onto replies:
Pat (patfirefghtr):  Well, there's an Eckerd in Wakeman now.  :D  As far as the curve tutorial goes, it's my pleasure to share it, and if you haven't found the curve pieces, they're under the Road Puzzle Pieces TAB Loop.  They should be the last three pieces.

Jason (jplumbley):  Thanks for the compliments, and I'm more than happy to assist you with modding stuff.  You seem to have gotten the hang of it pretty well. ;)  Indeed we will have to have another pow-wow.

And as far as the map goes, I've got to thank all of you NHP guys.  It really does work nicely with the curves, which I'm very happy about. 

Joan (Jmouse):  I'm glad to hear you liked the S-Curve, and you're most certainly welcome for the tutorial.  As far as my undo trick goes, perhaps in a future update. ;)  It's mostly just very careful usage of some of the terrain tools.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the compliments on the curve and the tutorial!  As far as the maps go, this one here is just a warmup.  I should have even more here soon once I get further into development. ;)

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks!  I was rather shocked when I found that worked as well.  There's some even crazier stuff you'll be seeing in the next few updates (namely that last construction project ;)).

sebes:  Thanks for the kind words, and I too am glad to see that you've found it as well.  I guess I did slip in a little under the radar this time. :D

Kevin (BigSlark):  Well, you've gotten your answer about the update now. :D  I've been trying to keep them much closer together lately, building momentum.  Thanks for the compliments on the tutorial, and I hope your curve rebuilding goes well. ;)

mjig_dudy:  Don't feel too bad about missing it--I've just started going again. ;)  Thanks for the compliments on the road building--that's always been my favorite part of the game.  And I'm glad to see that someone caught onto the place/street naming.   ;)  A fellow Pink Floyd enthusiast, no less.   ;)

flame1396:  Thanks!  I ran across the trick with the curves entirely by accident.  Took awhile to get it looking just right.  There will be more roads and some farms here soon. ;)

David (dedgren):  I've seen those curves somewhere before too.   :D  Thanks for the compliments, and I'm really excited to hear you have some new textures almost ready.  I hope your guess is right, too. ;)

-Alex


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on July 08, 2007, 07:30:40 PM
Looks good, Alex! Wakeman's certainly growing.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on July 08, 2007, 07:36:46 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on July 08, 2007, 06:34:20 PM
And just on the other side of the park, another massive construction project is under way . . .
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg399.imageshack.us%2Fimg399%2F5029%2Fu48universitypark2vw0.jpg&hash=d3404a5afb49509d5da1a195ee7c941c9c478ed6)

The Interstate system is coming? ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: flame1396 on July 08, 2007, 08:16:42 PM
Hmm my guess would be an airport for that massive development thing. Too wide for an interstate...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Filasimo on July 08, 2007, 08:40:24 PM
*dies* and goes to heaven i just love those construction updates u have to show the towns transit growth  :thumbsup: keep it up and i definitely want to see what surprises u got in store!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 08, 2007, 09:07:44 PM
Another magnificent update! The construction pictures look very realistic--I can't wait to see when the construction's done! And the maps are always my favorite. I found a theme in some of the street names, too: Barrett, Waters, Wright, Mason, Gilmour. Looks like we've got a Pink Floyd fan! Great work, as always, Alex!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: BigSlark on July 08, 2007, 10:04:20 PM
Quote from: flame1396 on July 08, 2007, 08:16:42 PM
Hmm my guess would be an airport for that massive development thing. Too wide for an interstate...

Have you seen the test textures for RHW-26?!?

Great update Alex, I like your style. Since I know you're cryptic on that "new release" thing, may the release of TLA's and the completion of South 11th Avenue be concurrent?

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Pat on July 08, 2007, 10:28:16 PM

OMG OMG OMG OMG Alex you have made me drool soooo much i think my drool bucket took off screaming LoL
Great construction progresses here and i cant wait to see the devolpment - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Jmouse on July 09, 2007, 12:42:21 PM
How clever (and realistic) of you to show construction sites first instead of the finished product. I've never seen that done before.  :thumbsup:
You have me following the transport system closely hoping to find a few helpful hints here and there. As it is, I can't even make it through stage-three development without major traffic problems, so I'm suffering through a bout of road rash on the learning curve.
Love the park next to the university and hope you'll keep the lovely pictures coming!

Until next time ...
Joan

P.S. A little trick I discovered while using curved RR pieces which are 21 tabs down the list. Shift+tab will start you at the end of the list and save a lot of key punching.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: mjig_dudy on July 10, 2007, 10:18:56 AM
ooooh! I love the construction pictures, they are great for adding that extra realism affect.

I can't wait to see what that large construction project is, i put my money on an interstate  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: bat on July 12, 2007, 01:35:12 AM
That is a fantastic update! Your roadmap is looking great, too! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: tooheys on July 12, 2007, 03:39:37 AM
Really like the the contrast between desert and population areas.

Nice update and looking good

Cheers

Dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on July 12, 2007, 04:52:17 AM
QuoteToo wide for an interstate...

Are you kidding me? I've seen freeways with massive medians much bigger than that - on one section of the Federal Highway here in Australia, parts of the median are 500m wide, and have farms inside them.

Anyway, it'll probably be RHW-18 :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: DFire870 on July 12, 2007, 06:08:24 AM
Quote from: flame1396 on July 08, 2007, 08:16:42 PM
Hmm my guess would be an airport for that massive development thing. Too wide for an interstate...

Nah, why would an airport be next to a school? Then again, a freeway would be kind of weird there too, but much more likely.

Anyways, great job on this MD Tarkus. I was going to post earlier but didn't have enough time. I love the road maps.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: pickled_pig on July 13, 2007, 12:48:44 PM
Hey:

Really good job with the construction stuff.  Don't know if it's going to be an interstate... but I really don't see much else making sense there.

As for being too wide, different parts of the States have different median widths.  About as soon as you leave Rhode Island for Connecticut on I-95 or Massachusetts on I-195, there's a significant change in median width - going from a Jersey barrier to about a 150-200-foot-wide median.

-aaron
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 4-7/8/2007--New Road Map)
Post by: dragonshardz on July 18, 2007, 04:08:56 PM
Hey Tarkus, where did you get the construction lots?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini-Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Tarkus on August 03, 2007, 11:14:18 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm finally back with an update for Tarkusian Cities, after nearly a month hiatus, due to RL, modding, and not having a reliable internet connection for part of that time.

At any rate, here's a mini-mosaic of South Latimer Road, headed toward Camel Point State Park.  This is about 5 miles west of Wakeman.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/latimerroadmosaic1.jpg)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/latimerroadmosaic2.jpg)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/latimerroadmosaic3.jpg)

A look at some more construction:

Another shot of the "mystery site".  As you may notice, it's right next to the river.  But it's not a seaport, if that's what your thinking.  All of you who guessed a "freeway" are correct.  Highway 24 will be re-routed, off of South Wakeman Boulevard and onto a new freeway alignment.  There will be some interesting challenges to face with this project, which you will see in the next few updates.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/constructionsite1.jpg)

And the public works department had better hurry up the South 11th Avenue project . . .
This is a shot looking north at the S 11th/Wakeman Blvd intersection, at the east end of the Highway 24/89 multiplex. 
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/constructionsite2.jpg)

And one other little surprise.  Anyone remember Argentum?
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/argentum-calderalnbypass.jpg)

We'll be revisiting it soon. ;)

I'll be back to respond to comments a little later.

-Alex


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: thundercrack83 on August 03, 2007, 11:21:17 AM
I remember Argentum! Glad to see you're back at this here, Alex! The mosaic looks amazing--those NAM curves get me everytime--and I can't wait to see how the freeway develops! Great work, as always, my friend!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: mightygoose on August 03, 2007, 11:35:07 AM
seven tile wide freeway eh.... very suspicious...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Pat on August 03, 2007, 06:37:31 PM

MG i agree with you someone is upto no good here lol... Alex a very intresting Update full of engineering mystery... - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 03, 2007, 06:50:56 PM
i've been lurking here and the only reason i can think of for a SEVEN TILE WIDE freeway is to use the RHW for six lanes in each direction plus a meridian in the center:

|||||||_|||||||
|||||||_|||||||
|||||||_|||||||

like so, with the right side heading down towards the bottom of the page and vice versa with the left. the horizontal lines (_) mean "meridan" and the vertical lines (|) mean lane edges, in case anyone is confused as to what that means.  ;D

Oh and Tarkus, what is Argentum?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on August 03, 2007, 10:04:10 PM
Quote from: dragonshardz on August 03, 2007, 06:50:56 PM
Oh and Tarkus, what is Argentum?

It was his first attempt at a MD.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 03, 2007, 11:19:05 PM
ok then but i still don't get the reference. what does that last pic have to do with his first MD?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Filasimo on August 04, 2007, 01:36:56 AM
alex alex alex, always leaving us waiting to see what youll do next.... shame on you!  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: bat on August 04, 2007, 02:04:41 AM
That is a great update, alex! Wonderful road and pictures! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: DFire870 on August 04, 2007, 03:44:58 AM
Quote from: dragonshardz on August 03, 2007, 11:19:05 PM
ok then but i still don't get the reference. what does that last pic have to do with his first MD?

The last picture was in his first MD, and it was for reconstruction of a bridge, which was never completed.

And Tarkus, great update, and I can't wait to see the highway be built.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: BigSlark on August 04, 2007, 07:32:01 AM
Alex,

Great update, I love your road construction scenes. If my memory serves me correctly, 7 tiles is about the right size for a diamond or compact trumpet interchange...

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Jmouse on August 04, 2007, 08:21:12 AM
Well, since I'm not good at creating or understanding transport networks, I'm going to sit back and watch instead of opening mouth and inserting foot.
Nevertheless, glad to have you back. I've liked your MD from the beginning and I'm glad to hear you have some pleasant surprises in store for us. BTW, nice update this time.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: sebes on August 04, 2007, 01:42:32 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on August 03, 2007, 11:14:18 AM
And one other little surprise.  Anyone remember Argentum? ... We'll be revisiting it soon. ;)

OMG - the insane intersection... I will never forget that one - it's burnt on my retina forever LOL!.. Looking forward to the next update and the renewed acquaintance with Argentum  &hlp
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: tooheys on August 05, 2007, 02:56:02 AM
First of all nice work with the road in the first pic. It takes some time to get those sort of smooth slopes on that terrain.

Can't wait to see what you have planned for the fwy.

Cheers

Dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on August 16, 2007, 09:53:59 AM
Hey Alex, I like your signature introduction about the Network Widening Modd (NWM). When it does become available. I hope it solves our traffic problems in SC4 lol. Looking foward to seeing the final
product when it's completed. Just a question though. When this Network Widening Modd becomes available. How many lanes will we be able to widen our avenues & roads by? I'm just anxious to use
it I guess lol.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 18, 2007, 11:03:17 PM
I think Tarkus is up to an express-collector freeway system, a very wide freeway with a median, or a small freeway with a large median.  :D

The MD is looking good so far!

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: nedalezz on August 19, 2007, 12:33:50 PM
I love the way you've set up the construction of the freeway, and the pictures of the construction site really bring it to life. Well done.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on August 20, 2007, 10:53:09 AM
Thanks for those updates Alex, and Keep up The Great Work.

Your Friend;
Mayor Of Steven's Point & Maxiston
(Proud To Be Cities Of Sim Nation!)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on August 21, 2007, 03:07:08 AM
I'm more inclined to go with a RHW-6C or RHW-8C setup (accounting for the exits - which adds 2 tiles on both sides, giving a grand total of 7 tiles).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 21, 2007, 05:05:19 PM
what do the #C apellations mean?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on August 21, 2007, 05:38:38 PM
Quote from: dragonshardz on August 21, 2007, 05:05:19 PM
what do the #C apellations mean?

Compressed.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 21, 2007, 06:06:41 PM
ok i get it now. back on subject!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on August 22, 2007, 12:43:52 AM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on August 21, 2007, 05:38:38 PM
Compressed.

In this case, however, it means Compact. RHW6C means it's RHW-6 Compact (3 tiles), RHW8C: RHW-8 Compact (3 tiles). There's also the S (standard) networks: RHW6-S is 4 tiles wide, and the same for RHW8-S. That should clear it up.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 22, 2007, 04:00:57 PM
compressed or compact, it means that the highway takes up less space. anyway, back to the original subject.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on August 23, 2007, 07:19:45 AM
Tarkus,you there? ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 5-8/3/2007--Mini Mosaic and More Construction)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 23, 2007, 03:43:58 PM
good question nascar_guy...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on August 29, 2007, 01:48:44 AM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on August 23, 2007, 07:19:45 AM
Tarkus,you there? ;)

Indeed I am, NASCAR_Guy.  Just really heavily delayed--RL and heavy-duty modding. ;)  Plus, my laptop decided to randomly power down and play dead while I was attempting to post this update (while it was plugged into the wall, no less).  My sincere apologies, and thanks for your continued support during the hiatus.  But Tarkusian Cities is back, with a blast from the past--an update from Argentum, as promised.  For those of you who don't remember it, Argentum was the city/region I showcased in my first ever MD (which still sits in the Completed MD section (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=46343d30e2de13fa7e404c4d8cf8cc36&topic=932.0), if you're curious).  It was somewhat of a transitional region for me, and it's still rather rough.  But I spent so much time with it that I'm rather attached to it still, so this will likely be the first of many "Argentum Revisited" updates, in which I'll be smoothing out the edges, so to speak.  (And trust me, there were edges. ;))  Think of it as a sort of tutorial for revitalizing one's older SC4 projects with new custom content.

Our first trip back to Argentum will examine the construction on the Caldera Lane bypass, particularly on its interchange with Barnaby Drive, the infamous "drunk engineer" interchange, as our friend sebes called it.  Rather fitting, don't you think?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg183.imageshack.us%2Fimg183%2F4546%2Fcalderalnconstructionrz8.jpg&hash=b74e39ed5ccdb2d652af22be09afff3adb782977)

Here's a map of the immediate area surrounding the interchange.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg484.imageshack.us%2Fimg484%2F7223%2Foldcalderamappq4.jpg&hash=0d3c5326471ad3768ec773aacca9c96ea9e6f6db)

Fortunately, the crazy folks who thought that one up have been fired from the city's Public Works department, and their successors have begun the unenviable (and time-consuming) task of redesigning the Caldera Lane bypass.  The bridges, with their "ski ramp"-style approaches, had to be demolished.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg366.imageshack.us%2Fimg366%2F1785%2Fargentumcalderalnbypasstd2.jpg&hash=1281150490af96073af6d991bdb3053c740e83a8)

Next, some surrounding roads have begun to be re-aligned. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg454.imageshack.us%2Fimg454%2F9590%2Fskillst082920071rn2.jpg&hash=2d72949b063b4ce5a1642144a891ac83aed5438f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg454.imageshack.us%2Fimg454%2F7162%2Fskillst082920072ju1.jpg&hash=398347bd6d97091eba9a0accfe2381463e781501)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg484.imageshack.us%2Fimg484%2F6939%2Fskillst082920073he1.jpg&hash=57d167ac17702a706c908bfecd35e7259295c404)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg404.imageshack.us%2Fimg404%2F1296%2Fskillst082920074md4.jpg&hash=264d7f3c5147743a595a5a95ba6185e8a1a25cdc)

And a map of the current status of realignment:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg484.imageshack.us%2Fimg484%2F4444%2Fnewcalderamap08282007qw9.jpg&hash=89c335843411379056cd210bdf49d0e714a1270e)

There were several reasons why this particular realignment was chosen.  Barnaby Drive was essentially a residential street, while Skill Street is a thoroughfare with a posted speed limit of 35mph.  The new alignment diverts heavy traffic away from neighborhoods, onto a road built for higher speed and volume.  Furthermore, the new alignment is much more direct, rather than the windy mess that the Barnaby alignment took.

And one last little pic to share.  Another sneak peek at the "mystery highway" site in Wakeman:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg484.imageshack.us%2Fimg484%2F8493%2Fmysteryhighway08292007hu8.jpg&hash=e9aa5a3177fa6b096e6b4c85380b353b9d529a78)

Yes, that's a TLA-5. ;)

Now, finally onto comments:

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Hope you enjoyed the flashback there.  Thanks for the compliments on the mosaic, and I can't stop using those NAM curves.  I can assure you you'll be seeing plenty more. ;)  I've also got interesting things planned for that freeway . . .

mightygoose:  It is indeed quite suspicious.  I can tell you the main part of the freeway won't be taking up all seven tiles, but I do have some interesting ways of filling them planned . . .

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Yes, me and my evil plans for freeway domination. ()flamdev()  Glad you're enjoying the suspense of the "mystery highway"--there's plenty more to come . . .

dragonshardz:  Good guess, but I can tell you it won't be six lanes per direction . . . but I can't let on much more than that.  The Highway 24 project is top secret . . . and hopefully this update answered your questions about Argentum.  And the construction lots are from the SFBT set by deejay, which can be found over on the STEX (direct link (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=14360)).  You'll also need to make sure you're registered over at Gizmo's SC4 Mods site, as one of the dependencies is over there (there should be a link to it from the STEX link I provided). 

Ryan (filasimo):  Yes, I do have a tendency to go a little overboard with teasing. ::)  What can I say?  As Bill Weber (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Weber)would say, "I kid because I care." :P

bat:  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the last update, and hopefully this one was to your liking as well.

DFire870:  Thanks!  I can't wait either.  I still have some RULs to write before it's ready, though.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks--glad to hear you enjoyed the construction.  And you are quite close in terms of the layout of the "mystery highway". ;)  There will be a rather elaborate MIS setup involved, as well as one other really big surprise (which I've hinted at, but not shown in the RHW thread).

Joan (Jmouse):  Glad to be back, and many thanks for your encouraging comments and support. :)  It really means a lot to me.  Hope this update was to your liking. 

sebes:  Yes, the insane intersection is back, and it will feature prominently in several future updates as well.  ;)  Thanks for your continued support as well! :thumbsup:

Dave (tooheys):  Thanks for the compliments on the road building.  This region has been really great practice--there's very little flat land.  But it's been a lot of fun. ;)

Steven (starmanw402007):  Thanks--I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it.  If you're curious about the NWM, you'll be getting 10-lane highways through the RHW, and at least 7 lanes for surface streets, with the TLA-7.

Allan (allan_kuan1992):  Another good guess.  I can tell you it will come as a total shock when you do see it.  And the median will be neither small nor wide. ;)  Thanks for the compliment as well!

nedalezz:  It's been a lot of fun doing the whole construction thing, so I'm really glad to hear you enjoy it.  Thanks!

Shadow Assassin:  Yet another excellent guess.  The ramps are going to take up a fair amount of room, and you're on the right track in terms of numbers of lanes.  It will be configured quite radically, though. ;)

I'll be back with more quite soon.  Much sooner than last time. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)





Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: bat on August 29, 2007, 09:00:11 AM
Another great update, Tarkus! Great maps! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Jmouse on August 29, 2007, 09:24:09 AM
As mentioned earlier, I'm not well versed in the mysteries of transport networks, but I'm sure yours will eventually make sense to me. BTW, I do enjoy seeing how networks perform in game play, though, so I'll be watching how yours works out.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Filasimo on August 29, 2007, 10:11:01 AM
that last pic is utterly sick just utterly sick u had to tease us with TLA-5 cant wait to see more of where ur going with this!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Pat on August 29, 2007, 11:32:54 AM

Ditto what Ryan said Alex that is by far the meanist tease yet lol... Overall i loved the update and im glad to see you updating again... Of course i cant wait for more of Tarkusian Cities and anther Argentum Pt 2... - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: thundercrack83 on August 29, 2007, 01:02:27 PM
OUTSTANDING!

Glad to see you're back here, Alex! I love the new aligning of the old interchange--Can't wait to see how it turns out. I'll be looking forward to seeing more of your work!

Take care,

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: dragonshardz on August 29, 2007, 05:52:24 PM
well tarkus my guess was a guess. and yes, my ?'s about Argentum have been answered.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on August 31, 2007, 06:11:57 PM
Hi Tarkus, I'm seeing some great looking cities of Sim Nation. Keep Up the great work.

Your Friend;
Mayor Of Steven's Point & Maxiston
(Proud To Be Cities Of Sim Nation!)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 6-8/29/2007--Argentum Revisited-Part 1)
Post by: Schulmanator on August 31, 2007, 07:03:39 PM
This is a fine update. I like seeing the transit under development. You have some good stuff here. I am eager for more when you can!  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: Tarkus on September 03, 2007, 03:12:54 AM
Hi everyone-

Back in the swing of things.  Yes, two updates in a week.  Hard to believe, I know. :D

This update, we're going back to Wakeman to take a look at a few new things going on. 

Since I'll be referring to a lot of specific street names, if you're interested in following along, here's linkage (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/ag-map-34-wakeman-withconstsite.png) back to the most recent edition of the Wakeman city map.

First of all, South Gilmour Street has become possibly the most traversed east-west route through the city, connecting the rest of town to the retail commercial and high-tech area along South 22nd Avenue.  As such, it's over capacity and in need of improvement.  Namely, widening and realignment. 

Here's an overview shot, looking west toward 22nd.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-gilmour-0.jpg)

Construction begins on the western portion, near South 20th Avenue.
(Looking south)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-gilmour-1.jpg)

Those homes you saw in the last shot were in the path of the wider Gilmour Street, and unfortunately, had to be removed. 
(Looking east)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-gilmour-2.jpg)

And do you remember the South 11th Avenue project? 

(Looking north, with the Wakeman Blvd intersection on the bottom)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-pretla5.jpg)

Public works has made some significant progress--more of which you'll see later.  This is at 11th and Giles, just north of the Wakeman Blvd intersection.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-tla5.jpg)

That does it for this update.  Now for replies:

bat:  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the maps--being a total mapgeek, I can't resist it.
Joan (Jmouse):  The trick I've generally learned in unraveling the transit networks is that following RL designs for layouts tends to work quite well.  There's actually a number of vague similarities between Wakeman and Ellensburg, Washington on that front [linkie] (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Ellensburg,+WA&ie=UTF8&ll=46.992899,-120.547056&spn=0.02734,0.080338&z=14&om=1).  That was probably the main inspiration in terms of the starting point for the road layout--they're not carbon copies by any means, but there are some similarities.  I've also modified the Traffic Simulator Exemplar to be more in-line with RL values--at some point, I may have to show everyone my Traffic Data View and other related graphs, if there's interest.  Hope that clears up some mystery, and I'm curious to see where the networks end up myself. ;)

Ryan (filasimo):  Yes, I did have to tease everyone with the TLA-5.  Repeatedly. :D  Rest assured, I have interesting things planned . . .

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks; glad you enjoyed the update!  I really am rather mean with the teasing.  I guess I have a reputation to live up to. :D  Just wait until the NWM is ready for release.  It'll be like the June NAM all over again.  Argentum will probably resurface within the next couple of updates. 

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the feedback on the interchange realignment. There's plenty of wackiness with the transit system in Argentum, so that whole bypass is pretty much going to get torn up.  Glad to see you're not "disappeared" anymore as well.

dragonshardz:  Well, thanks for guessing, and I'm glad I was able to answer your questions.  Also glad to see you're "undisappeared" now.

Steven (Starman2402007):  Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed it, and I will certainly try to keep it up. ;)

Schulmanator:  Thanks for the compliments, and I hope you enjoyed this update.  It's good to get back in the swing of things.  There will be plenty more transit next update. ;) 

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: bat on September 03, 2007, 05:50:54 AM
Another great update, Tarkus! Fantastic work and pictures! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: Meastro444 on September 03, 2007, 09:06:53 AM
i love it!! &apls :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: thundercrack83 on September 03, 2007, 10:07:49 AM
Hello, there, Alex!

Fantastic update, as always, my friend! The TLA looks amazing, and the construction is always a plus!

Also, welcome to the Best Sellers section!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: Jmouse on September 03, 2007, 01:18:09 PM
Thanks for the link. Probably I should study more maps like that.
In the update, I really like the neighborhood(s). They are some of the most realistic I've seen, and they look very inviting. Keep up the good work!  :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: Filasimo on September 03, 2007, 01:48:37 PM
awesome update alex! you never cease to amaze me with your construction pics...i always love doing those when i build a major thoroughfare :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: BigSlark on September 03, 2007, 10:00:23 PM
Alex,

Your last two updates were great. I love to see that the TLA-5 is more or less finished and I'm looking forward to the freeway interchange that's coming soon.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: Pat on September 03, 2007, 11:28:23 PM

Alex anther fantastic update from you and the routes of inamint domain gotta love that process by the public works department.... will be looking for the next update soon i hope now lol  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 7-9/3/2007--More Construction in Wakeman)
Post by: EDGE4194 on September 04, 2007, 06:43:00 AM
Alex- great updates. its always interesting seeing what you're up to.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: Tarkus on September 06, 2007, 02:49:18 AM
Hi everyone-

Back for another update.   ;)

Well, lots of interesting stuff is going on in Wakeman.  First, a new waterfront hotel, overlooking both the Cascadia River and Gilmour Inlet has been built at the intersection of Banks Way and Kaye Drive.  (Anyone get the reference at that intersection?)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-banks-0.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-banks-1.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u7-banks-2.jpg)

As you can see, the new hotel is hooked up to the start of a new pedestrian trail system, which will eventually lead all over Wakeman.

And another development.  This is at the intersection of Wakeman Boulevard and 22nd Avenue.  Wakeman gets its first strip mall, Wakeman Crossing. (Creative name . . . ::))

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-22ndwakeman-1.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-22ndwakeman-2.jpg)

To mitigate traffic traveling to the new shopping center, the developers of Wakeman Crossing have paid the city a Traffic Impact Fee, which will go toward widening Wakeman Boulevard to a TLA-5 between 11th and 22nd.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-22ndwakeman-3.jpg)

Finally, here's something going on in Argentum.  Looking at this old map (one of my first attempts) [linkage] (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/map-21-argentum-v2.jpg), you may notice a "Country Club Road". 
Well, the aforementioned country club
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-countryclub-1.jpg)

no longer exists, for reasons you'll soon see.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-countryclub-2.jpg)

As a result, the road name doesn't really make much sense now.  So, I'm going to rename it in honor the poster of our 100th comment, Meastro444. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u8-argentum-newmap.jpg) 

Congratulations, Meastro! :)

Now onto comments:

bat:  Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed the last update, and I hope this one was to your liking.

Meastro444:  Thanks for the compliment, and thanks for making the 100th post!

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the kind words, and for moving my MD up to Best Sellers.  I'm really excited about it.  Thanks again for all your hard work moderating the MD section as well.  You're doing a fantastic job. :thumbsup:  And there's more TLA where that came from. ;)

Joan (Jmouse): You're certainly welcome for the link.  Thanks for the compliments on the neighborhood as well.  It's good to hear I'm doing something right. :)

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks!  I agree, the construction pics are always a lot of fun to make.  I'm always tearing up my cities to widen stuff.  Will be even more soon . . .   ;)

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the past two updates, and hope you enjoyed this latest one as well.  I've still got some work to do on the TLA-5, but it's coming along nicely.  And I really do have some crazy things planned for the new Highway 24 freeway.   ;)

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Hope this one came soon enough for you. :D  Fortunately, the city compensated the land owners along Gilmour Street (soon to be Gilmour Parkway) quite well, so they aren't complaining.  The next stage of the project, toward 11th, however, will be a different story.  Lots of historic homes there, so things are still being carefully planned on that front.  And thanks for the compliments!

EDGE4194:  Thanks, glad you liked the updates! 

That's it for this update.  One other little news item before I close this update--Tarkusian Cities is CAMmed. ;) I've been utilizing it in both regions, and I'm happy to report that not only does it work well for creating larger cities and agricultural areas, it also works very well for suburban commercial areas.  I'll have some stuff to show on that front soon (including the skyrocketing demand chart in Argentum, if anyone's interested).  Thanks to Tage (RippleJet) and everyone at the BSC!

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: rooker1 on September 06, 2007, 06:10:31 AM
Great update.   I like the hotel on the shoreline and the bridge beside it looks interesting.  The map at the end looks great as well.  I have no patience for things like that.  I make it up as I go.   ;)

&apls

Robin   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: bat on September 06, 2007, 06:26:28 AM
Beautiful pictures of your city, Tarkus! Great map! Wonderful work! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: thundercrack83 on September 06, 2007, 09:34:51 AM
Stunning suburbia, Alex! I love the strip malls, and I'll be looking forward to seeing what pops up where the country club used to be! And as always, the map is outstanding! Keep it up, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: Jmouse on September 06, 2007, 10:18:49 AM
Oh yeah, more nice neighborhoods, and that hotel is to die for. Like the strip mall as well although I can't say I've ever seen one across the road from a farm. And the street map is a very clever idea.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: Pat on September 07, 2007, 02:11:11 AM

Alex its a blast to see what you do and come here each and everytime bud... this time is no exception...  i thought though on the historic front is if there is land still nearby can relocate those homes there as an idea
so its still preserving the historic area and demolishing any history  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: Filasimo on September 07, 2007, 02:16:10 AM
alex,
cant wait for that urban sprawl develop even more crazily  :D great update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: BigSlark on September 07, 2007, 06:02:41 AM
Alex,

You are not only the master of transit modding but you're also the master of the blurry line between suburbia and farmland. I'm glad AND amazed that you have the time for your MD and the NWM.

Have a great weekend!

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: flame1396 on September 07, 2007, 11:02:22 PM
Cool... You have all this delicious stuff we don't yet  &sly

Good work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 8-9/6/2007--Suburbia Arrives)
Post by: sebes on September 09, 2007, 06:48:39 AM
The residents of Barnaby Drive will be forever greatfull to you! Looking forward to see how the Calderalane bridges over the Argentum Inlet will be reconnected... assuming you will help out the commuters between the Airport and Downtown that used those bridges  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: Tarkus on September 15, 2007, 03:08:26 AM
Very brief update here.  Seeing what David's been doing over at 3RR (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=90a92cdfb7adc0e53f7dcd9e8b57fa85&topic=112.msg71049#msg71049), it's put me in a map-making mood.  I'll be back with more a little later. ;)

Updated Wakeman Map--you'll be seeing the implications of this map very, very soon. ;)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg368.imageshack.us%2Fimg368%2F7130%2Fagmap34wakeman09152007cv9.th.jpg&hash=e8ceb7c2b18ed2049f50b96abc974eb9bc9ea1e4) (http://img368.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakeman09152007cv9.jpg)

Remember that ultra-curvy road (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?PHPSESSID=90a92cdfb7adc0e53f7dcd9e8b57fa85&topic=1555.msg48903#msg48903) from that mosaic?  Well, here is how it looks on the map. :D
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg466.imageshack.us%2Fimg466%2F5815%2Fag36belewjctdu3.th.jpg&hash=eaca0b8315b0ef8c842e016fd338db6a6ab5205d) (http://img466.imageshack.us/my.php?image=ag36belewjctdu3.jpg)

And a random shot from Highway 32, in the southernmost part of the Cascadia Gorge region.  This is one of the highest points in the entire region.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg354.imageshack.us%2Fimg354%2F6614%2Frandommtnhwyjx4.jpg&hash=ad63ed0776efe7e5833601e5851bd6222bfd355f)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: BigSlark on September 15, 2007, 09:26:29 AM
Alex,

Great looking maps. Belew Mountain Rd. looks like an amazing drive!

I'm looking forward to seeing more freeway construction.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: Jmouse on September 15, 2007, 11:26:48 AM
Oh boy, looks like there's a whole lot more good stuff on the way. Meanwhile, the highway photo is stunning.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: thundercrack83 on September 15, 2007, 03:55:57 PM
Fantastic maps, Alex! I love them! And the gorge road looks incredible, too! Can't wait to see more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: Filasimo on September 15, 2007, 04:05:55 PM
id hate to pull over for a emergency pee break in that mountain area!  :D cant wait for another update
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: bat on September 16, 2007, 07:02:11 AM
Fantastic looking new maps, Tarkus! And great picture of the highway! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: Madeira aka Constantina on September 16, 2007, 07:52:57 AM
the map are very interesting although i prefer to stay with very tight bends (only if it is in the wild country)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 9-9/15/2007--Random Maps and Stuff)
Post by: bakerton on September 21, 2007, 05:56:05 AM
I have read through everything from page one, and I must say; most awesome job with everything and I hope that more awesome and great works are coming. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Tarkus on October 01, 2007, 01:56:28 AM
Hi everyone-

Finally back with an update.  The first phase of the Gilmour Parkway project has more or less been completed, aside from a few aesthetic touches.  This phase converted Gilmour Avenue from 2 travel lanes to a 4-lane divided route between South 22nd Avenue and the S-Curve, and extended the route to an intersection with Highway 24/Wakeman Boulevard. 

Here's Gilmour Street on the S-Curve just past 18th Avenue, facing east:
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-1.jpg)

The partial redesign of the S-Curve (2,3)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-2.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-3.jpg)

(The portion between the S-Curve and 11th Avenue will be redesigned as part of Phase 2)

This is Gilmour and 22nd before (yet again--I keep showing this intersection, and I can promise you, this isn't the last redesign ;))
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-4.jpg)

Here's after the portion up to 22nd has been widened, but before the extension was put through. 
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-5.jpg)

The extension has been started.  23rd Avenue no longer connects to Gilmour, as Public Works thought it would have been too close to the major intersection with 22nd Avenue, which potentially would have caused congestion on the new route.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-6.jpg)

This is where the extension will meet up with Rabin Drive, which will now end at Gilmour Parkway instead of at Highway 24. 
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-7.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-8.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-9.jpg)

To save money on this phase, part of the old 2-lane Rabin Drive alignment has become part of the Gilmour Parkway route.  Eventually, with the completion of Phase 3, the route will continue as a 4-lane road at the diagonal, and the proposed extension may reach Latimer Road.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-10.jpg)


And another development you may find interesting.  I've been assembling a new regional transportation map for all of Argentum (36 tiles total).  It's still not done, but here's a sneak preview, zoomed way out.  This is essentially highway, road, street, and rail line in the entire region.  The full-sized one is a 12,000 pixel x 12,000 pixel vector drawing, which I'm still trying to figure out how to show on here. :D  That will more than likely involve breaking it down. ;)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u10-argentummappreview.jpg)

Hope you enjoyed this update!

Now for replies:

Robin (rooker1):  Thanks!  That bridge might get overhauled here at some point, and it's looking as if there may be another bridge going behind it soon.  A very large bridge, I might add . . . ;)  Glad to hear you like the map as well--I usually have quite a bit of fun putting them together, which outweighs my lack of patience. :D

bat: Thanks!  I'm happy to hear you enjoyed it.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the compliments on the suburbia and the map.  Suburban areas always been the most fun thing to build in this game for me.  There's always something to tinker with.  As far as the now bulldozed country club goes, that's just the start.  I can tell you something road related is going in there (as everyone could probably see coming a million miles away).  But something else big is getting relocated as well, as you'll soon see . . .

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks--glad you like the neighborhoods--I've really been enjoying building those since I started blocking all the Maxis stuff out.  As far as a strip mall going in across from a farm, that's actually a pretty common  occurrence here in Oregon for areas that are undergoing urbanization.  The farms there likely won't be there much longer, though.

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks--I'm thrilled that you've been enjoying each update.  That's a fantastic idea on the Gilmour Parkway expansion--there's plenty of room to relocate the homes.  Now if Public Works can just get the Wakeman Historic Society to relent . . .  ;)

Ryan (Filasimo):  I can't wait either.  :D Thanks for stopping by!

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks--it can be rather tricky to find a balance between everything, especially now that university started up again for me. 

flame1396:  The delicious goods will be making their way to the LEX in only a matter of time . . . ;)  Thanks for dropping by!

sebes:  Yes, the residents on Barnaby are quite thrilled not to have the access to a major bypass running right through their front lawn. :D  Public Works is still working up a plan for Caldera Lane--the drunk engineers really made a mess beyond that wacky interchange, as you'll soon see.  ;)

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks for the compliments on the map, and that Belew Mountain Road really is something.  Don't worry, there will be plenty of freeway construcion here soon, especially with how things are commencing with the MIS. ;)

Joan (Jmouse):  Well, the stuff from the Wakeman map made its way into this update here--hope it was to your liking. ;) And thanks for the compliments on the highway.  I'm still trying to get everything built down in the southern part of that region.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks--glad you enjoyed these maps as well as the highway!

Ryan (Filasimo):  I would too :D  That is a rather crazy road.

bat: Thanks for the compliments!

bakerton:  I'm really glad to hear you enjoyed the whole MD thus far, and I hope this update was up to par.  Thanks!

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Filasimo on October 01, 2007, 02:01:34 AM
great update Alex!  :thumbsup: Im always curious as to what road projects you have next!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: bat on October 01, 2007, 05:23:48 AM
A wonderful new update, Alex! Great pictures! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Jmouse on October 01, 2007, 09:47:38 AM
That's a very informative update, Tarkus. Since my transport systems are not usually very effective, I'll be watching closely hoping to learn some new tricks of the trade! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Pat on October 01, 2007, 09:53:14 AM
Man Alex are you a city planner at all by a chance and you use SC4 to test before really building?  :D
Great update Alex and i will see you next time around - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: jplumbley on October 01, 2007, 09:54:32 AM
Now this is my kinda MD!  Taking smaller existing cities and expanding them, upgrading their transit systems logically and making it look as realistic as we possibly can.  Excellent work Alex, the only thing I would change.... well... I would add some more SAM in there LOL.

Oh and we must start a MD for showcasing new finds or new products in the Transit Department.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: dedgren on October 01, 2007, 10:14:29 AM
Tarkus-

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg407.imageshack.us%2Fimg407%2F6463%2Ftarkusiancitiesqd6.png&hash=8bd4a70d22f4d487bed93954ecb53ef8183b15c4)

Tarkusian Cities - Transportation planning truly pays off.

Congratulations!


The Staff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: rooker1 on October 01, 2007, 10:17:00 AM
Super update and Congratulations on SIOTM.

&apls &apls &apls

Robin   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: BigSlark on October 01, 2007, 10:23:29 AM
Alex,

I love the great construction pics. I'm really impressed with the DOT of Tarkusian Cities, they do an excellent job of building roads before problems get out of hand.

As always, still itching for freeways,

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Pat on October 01, 2007, 10:33:05 AM
OKIEs im hoping back in here to congratulate you Alex on OSITM woohooo  :thumbsup: &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Jmouse on October 01, 2007, 10:51:06 AM
Congratulations, Tarkus. Looks like I'm not the only one who sees a good transport network going on here! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: bat on October 01, 2007, 10:56:02 AM
Also a congrats for this award from me, Alex! &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Ennedi on October 01, 2007, 02:50:09 PM
Congratulations Alex, it's my first visit (sorry), but I see I can learn a lot here  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Danthe on October 01, 2007, 03:08:40 PM
Congrats Tarkus for Awards &apls Your MD is great, I like yours communication maps :thumbsup:
I must most often look up this ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on October 01, 2007, 06:29:39 PM
Congratulations!

I can see you've got plenty planned for Wakeman.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 01, 2007, 09:43:42 PM
Well, the Gilmour Parkway looks like it's going to be a great addition, Alex! As always, the construction and the maps are absolutely fantastic! And, congratulations on making it to the Special Interest section for October, my friend! You definitely deserve it!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: EDGE4194 on October 02, 2007, 04:55:53 AM
alex- the updates are looking good. congrats on the award for the month  &apls . great job on the map btw.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: sebes on October 02, 2007, 02:20:23 PM
With the map that you make, there is indeed only one place were this MD belongs: the Monthly Interest section. I believe it belongs there every month by the way  :thumbsup:

The Gilmour project and the Giga-map are just two examples showing why.
I cannot wait for further updates here....

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 10-10/1/2007--Gilmour Parkway Project, Phase 1)
Post by: dragonshardz on October 02, 2007, 11:20:08 PM
go Tarkus! way to go man!

btw, whatever happened to that mystery highway project?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: Tarkus on October 05, 2007, 03:48:12 PM
Hi everyone-

Thanks for all the comments and support, and many thanks to the site's staff for the Special Interest recognition this month--I'm really quite flattered, especially to be in the company of some of the other MDs that have been in here, and are currently in here.

Back with another update.  We're back to Argentum again to look at various inadequacies in the regional transportation system, and in the next few updates, I'll be showing some solutions to these issues.

You may be wondering, what is the issue with Argentum's transportation system?  Well, it turns out those "drunk engineers" who built the now-infamous Caldera Lane/Barnaby Drive interchange
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/caldera-ln-construction.jpg)

had their hand in many other projects in the region. :D

This includes almost all of Argentum's highway system.  Here's a couple of zoomed out maps extracted from the larger transportation map to illustrate my point (I've upsized the route markers to compensate.)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/hwyinadequacy1.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/hwyinadequacy2.jpg)

If you notice the scale, you'll see that the highways curve around a lot over very short distances, following an indirect path.  They probably look like they're going through some sort of mountainous or hilly area.  The problem is, they're not  :D:

And here's 61 just north of Angstrom (the light blue area)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-1.jpg)

And here it is north of Argentum

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-2.jpg)

The land is almost flat below the highways and the twisting around is completely unnecessary.  :D  When they were built, it was not anticipated that they would receive much traffic, or that Argentum proper would grow to 65-70,000 people--they were mainly quick-and-dirty retrofits of existing 2-lane alignments.  The only way to improve the highways here is a series of costly re-alignment projects, where entire freeways will be re-routed through the region and at least one new route will be built.  (In addition, Argentum is actually a fairly old region for me, started before I really knew much about the game's scale.) 

This here is the start of work just north of downtown Argentum, an area soon to be home to a massive new hotel and convention center.  To the left, you'll see Highway 4, a model of inadequacy, with its cramped lanes and its awkward interchange with Stone Avenue. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-3.jpg)

As you can see, the construction crews are already there, beginning work on widening and rehabilitating the highway and the interchange.   All of the development next to the highway will have to be removed in order to accomodate the right-of-way for the interchange. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-4.jpg)

The new hotel nearly done.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-5.jpg)

Not only are Argentum's highways poorly constructed, its surface arterials are as well.  Here's a couple of other sections of Caldera Lane, which is supposed to be one of the city's major north-south routes.

This is on the north side of town at the intersection with Costa Drive, by the end of Caldera Lane.  The slope is extremely steep, making it difficult to travel at the posted 45mph (roughly 70 km/h for you metric folks) speed limit. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-6.jpg)

And this is near the now-demolished Barnaby Drive interchange on the south side of town, with the intersections of Milpont Road and Airport Road.  The road's descent down to the remaining part of the bridge over the inlet is built like a staircase.  In addition, the Milpont and Airport Road intersections are a mere 200 feet apart, which is a serious issue.  The speed limit drops accordingly to 30mph (about 50 km/h), rather low for a road that's supposed to be a "bypass".  The fire department's landing strip is also located here, but is no longer in use, as it is barely adequate enough for a model plane to take off or land.   :D

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-7.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-8.jpg)

Caldera Lane will be getting increased traffic as an important alternate route during the Highway 61 renovation, and thus, the Argentum Department of Public Works, along with county and state officials (all with new engineering staff ;)), have decided to accelerate the Caldera Lane bypass project.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-9.jpg)

You'll be seeing much more of the Caldera Lane project in the next couple of updates.  There's plenty of construction pics to come.

And one other little teaser:

Not only is the fire department's airstrip inadequate, the Argentum Airport is as well, and both are soon to be relocated to a new, state-of-the-art facility, located 4 miles northeast of downtown Argentum, in the Ferrum area, which was chosen because it was an adequate distance away from the two large lakes (Emerson Lake and Mineral Lake), and was the flattest large parcel available.  A new highway will be built to help accomodate traffic going to and from the airport.

Here's the start of construction, just south of Landry Road.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u11-10.jpg)

Now onto replies:

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks!  Hope this update kept your curiosity up . . .

bat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the pics!

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments, and I'm really quite happy to hear it was informative.  Hope this update was to your liking!

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks for the entertaining comment!  I'm only an amateur city planner, but I try. ;) 

Jason (jplumbley):  I'm really glad to hear that you enjoyed it--thanks for the feedback!  And don't worry, there will be more SAM stuff next update--I promise . . . LOL.  And I agree with you about the need for some sort of transit development showcase.  I'd definitely be up for that. :)

David (dedgren):  Thanks for the Special Interest award for the month!  I'm still in shock . . .

Robin (rooker1): Thanks for congratulations on the SIOTM, and glad you enjoyed the update.

Kevin (BigSlark):  I'm really glad to hear you enjoyed the construction pics, and that the DOT was doing good--they're going to have a whale of a time straightening out Argentum, though.  And you can count on some serious freeway construction action when they do.

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks, Pat! :)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks!  I'm just happy to pass along my enjoyment of the transit aspect. :)

bat:  Thanks, bat!

Adam (Ennedi):  Thanks for the compliments and for congratulating me on the award.  Congratulations to you as well on your SIOTM as well, and from looking at your MD, I think there's a lot I can learn from you as well.

Danthe:  Thanks, I'm really glad you enjoyed the map!

Shadow Assassin:  Thanks for the congratulations, and I do indeed have lots of stuff planned for Wakeman . . .  ;)

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks again, Dustin.  I'm happy to hear Gilmour Parkway and the maps were to your liking, and thanks for the congratulations as well.

EDGE4194:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the update and hope this one was to your liking as well.

sebes:  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm really quite flattered.  And I'm sure you'll be pleased to know there's plenty of Caldera Lane construction on the way. ;)

dragonshardz:  Thanks!  If you're wondering about the mystery highway project, the "tools" needed to build it are still in the experimental modding stages . . . provided I figure out what's wrong with one of the exemplars, it may not be far off. Stay tuned . . . ;)

Hope you enjoyed this update, and thank you all for your continued support and feedback.  Really. :) 

-Alex











Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: bakerton on October 05, 2007, 05:05:30 PM
Real nice on the road projects Tarkus. Looking for more in the future. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: Filasimo on October 05, 2007, 05:18:47 PM
hey alex great update! indeed it does keep me curious even more  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: bat on October 06, 2007, 02:19:13 AM
Another great update! Wonderful work and pictures! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: sebes on October 06, 2007, 02:30:39 AM
Words cannot say enough - I enjoyed this update so much! 

I had no idea that the Caldera Lane Traject had so may "special effect" constructions on the route... Rush hour in Argentum must feel like one very long ride in a rolercoaster  :P

No kidding: in my opinion this project is one of the most interesting going on in MD-land at the moment, so thanks for sharing all details and picture on the reconstructions with us!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: BigSlark on October 06, 2007, 07:40:18 AM
Alex,

I really like how you've plotted the future for Argentum. I like MD's that have a good story and combine that with my well-known road geekery, well, I'll be back soon.

I'm looking forward to seeing what gets rebuilt next.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: Ennedi on October 06, 2007, 08:17:59 AM
It seems you have a lot of work to do  :D

Your map is very interesting, and the amount of planning you put in it is really great :thumbsup:
Knowing your analyzing  skills I am very curious of this future transportation network
Your terrain is almost flat, but it isn't such easy, there are small irregular hills here and there and it needs many terraforming to make flat roads. I think engineers wchich were build these roads earlier were not drunken, but they taken for themselves some money wchich they should to pay for excavators  :D (Edit: And they didn't know the Bridge H1 Mod  ;))
More seriously, changing the previous development is a real challenge and it is extremely interesting - not less interesting than building from the beginning. I had such idea with my old region, but collecting my stuff I made a horrible chaos in the Plugins folder and wasn't be able to improve it :D

Cheers
Adam
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: DFire870 on October 06, 2007, 09:07:08 AM
The windy roads remind me of the Austin area, since the Texas Hill Country starts in west Austin, and since the hills are everywhere the roads are very windy and make some very odd twists and turns.

Great last few updates, and I can't wait to see the finished construction.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 11-10/5/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 2)
Post by: Jmouse on October 06, 2007, 11:06:12 AM
Hi Alex!
For reasons stated previously, I continue to watch in awe as your transport system develops. I would like to know why you chose to build the avenue in sharp stair steps (fourth photo from the end) rather than more gentle slopes. Considering your expertise and talent with transport design, I'm sure you had a good reason, but you have aroused my curiosity.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: Tarkus on October 06, 2007, 04:09:41 PM
Hi again everyone-

I'm making two updates in two days, which is unheard of for me usually.  I think you may enjoy this one.  As we left off with the last update, I showed the mess that Argentum's roads and highways were in, including the infamous Caldera Lane disaster.  Well, I'm happy to report that progress has been going extremely well on Caldera Lane.

A few updates ago, the interchange with Barnaby Drive was demolished, and Skill Street was re-routed.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-0-map.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-1.jpg)
(Image fixed, thanks Pat for catching it! :))

Public Works decided to undertake an expensive option to actually fill in part of the Argentum Inlet, to allow for a more direct, land-based route for Caldera Lane.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-2.jpg)

Other roadways through the area are also going to be re-routed as part of the project, including Milpont Road.   You can see the outline of the new Milpont alignment in this shot.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-4.jpg)

The overpass over Skill Street is being completed.  The new section of Caldera Lane is designed to be of somewhat limited access, but not up to freeway standards, with a controlled interchange.  The connection from Skill to the southbound lanes of Caldera has been completed here.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-5.jpg)

(The idea for this partially came from this interchange [link] (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SW+Murray+Blvd+%26+SW+Terman+Rd,+Beaverton,+OR+97005,+USA&ie=UTF8&ll=45.499196,-122.827739&spn=0.003324,0.010042&t=k&z=17&om=1) in Beaverton, Oregon, which I'm quite familiar with.)

This is the new alignment to connect the new section to the existing section, approaching the existing Milpont Road and Airport Road intersections.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-6.jpg)

The Skill Street connection to the northbound lanes has been completed.  The NB and SB connections intersect with Skill Street proper at a roundabout.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-7.jpg)

More work on the Milpont Road realignment and connecting it to the new Caldera Lane.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-8.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-9.jpg)

The realignment of Milpont Road has allowed for the demolition of the old alignment, which eliminates the issue with the Airport and Milpont intersections being too close together.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-10.jpg)

Confusingly, now Milpont Road exists in two disconnected sections.  Here's the other portion, connected to Airport Road.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-11.jpg)

Finally, a new, modern bridge is built beyond the Skill interchange, making Caldera Lane whole once again.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-12.jpg)

Here's how the area looks now, after the project has been mostly finished.  Landscaping is still planned.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u12-13-map.jpg)

bakerton:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the road projects, and hope you enjoyed this latest round. ;)

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks for the compliments on the update.  This probably relieved some of the curiosity, but I've got plenty more mystery projects in store. ;)

bat:  Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed the update.

sebes:  Thanks again, and hope you enjoyed seeing the end result of the Caldera Lane project.  And yes, rush hour in Argentum is just like a roller coaster.  That's why no one's bothered to build an amusement park in town yet. :D  Maybe after some of the highways get ironed out . . .

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, being a roadgeek as well, I can't help it. :D  There's still plenty of stuff to rebuild, I'm just trying to decide what next.  Well, the MIS is coming along nicely . . . maybe I'll see if I can't squeeze it in in the next few updates . . .  ;)

Adam (Ennedi):  Yes, I do indeed have a lot of work to do on this region.  I've replanned this region so many times, but the changes this time around are going to be much more radical.  I'm hoping to get a new "Transportation Plan" drafted up that I can show you all.  The engineers definitely did cut corners--perhaps they used the money they saved on excavating to go to the local bar. :D  The redevelopment definitely has been a challenge, and my earlier attempts at it didn't go as well, but I've learned quite a bit since (including how crucial having a slope mod is, which in some spots, you can tell I didn't have :D), and have modded some new things that will assist the process. ;)  Thanks for the compliments, and I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it.

DFire870:  I could definitely see the Texas Hill Country connection here.  The roads here don't really have an excuse here in Argentum, though. :D  The region's quite flat.  Hope you enjoyed seeing the end result.

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks! I'm glad you've enjoyed watching the systems develop.  As far as that staircase Avenue, that was built over a year ago, back when I was young and misguided. And didn't have a slope mod.  :D  I was more concerned about making the roads connect then, but I've really learned quite a bit in that year's time.  I've always had a soft spot for this Argentum region, and now that I know more, I'm having a good time improving it. :)

Hope everyone enjoyed this latest round.

-Alex (Tarkus)



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: Pat on October 06, 2007, 04:49:04 PM

Alex wonderful verrrrrrrrrrry Wonderful last 2 updates, Btw there is a broken pic under the first map....  :'(
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: Filasimo on October 06, 2007, 06:44:07 PM
great update Alex, wow two updates in 3 days hope its more frequent like that  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: beskhu3epnm on October 06, 2007, 08:00:48 PM
You are on a roll, friend.

Do you see highways and roads in your mind when you close your eyes? Do you dream of overpasses?

By far, the best example of transportation I've ever seen, and I wish for more updates.

Awesome work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: bat on October 07, 2007, 01:50:37 AM
Great work on the avenue, also on the airport! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: EDGE4194 on October 07, 2007, 05:25:00 AM
 &apls wow- very interesting. can't wait for the next construction project.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: sebes on October 07, 2007, 09:18:42 AM

Quote..and hope you enjoyed seeing the end result of the Caldera Lane project.

I sure did! The result is gorgeous, and even more convenient for the commuters as I anticipated. They WILL be very greatfull after this redevelopping of the main infrastructure in Argentum. 

For the next decenia people at birthdayparties will be divided in two groups: the ones remembering the good old bumby rides and the ones that don't.....

Anyhow, I think the town is now ready for the major redo of the  I-61 (and so am I  :thumbsup:)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 12-10/6/2007--Argentum Revisited, Part 3)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 07, 2007, 03:44:21 PM
Yet again, a wonderful update, Alex! The flashbacks to Argentum are always a great time! I'll be looking forward to seeing more, my friend!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/8/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: Tarkus on October 08, 2007, 01:38:18 AM
Hi everyone-

Back again.  Just wanted to show you the proposed plan for Argentum's highways, on which you'll be able to see some of the future projects in the works.

Here's the immediate area around Argentum where most of the highways are.  (Don't worry, those black spots in the thumbnail pic are actually white when you open it up.)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg186.imageshack.us%2Fimg186%2F153%2Fargentumnowcm3.th.png&hash=85eed0451151f176400c3e56fc73c78caa983f7e) (http://img186.imageshack.us/my.php?image=argentumnowcm3.png)

And here's the (rather rough) proposed plan.  Many of the details involving the interchange designs and any needed realignment of surface streets aren't on here yet, but this should give you an idea. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg300.imageshack.us%2Fimg300%2F2094%2Fargentumregiontransportpm0.th.png&hash=a58bb87350fea554a1e9a395076562230d61ee4b) (http://img300.imageshack.us/my.php?image=argentumregiontransportpm0.png)

As you may notice, the proposed plan, if built, will be a drastic change from the current system.  Some of these changes might even seem a little odd at first.   ;) 

Here's an overview (Warning: Serious roadgeek content   :D)

-Much of the former Highway 4 freeway alignment has now been renumbered as Highway 304, which now ends as a spur, dumping onto Peninsula Avenue.  The remainder of the old Highway 4 alignment beyond that point, even with significant reconstruction, would still not meet standards due to its overly circuitous nature.  Highway 4 has been partially re-routed down the former Highway 204, multiplexing with Highway 61 and diverging again south of Angstrom. 

-Highway 61 has been moved away from downtown Argentum.  This was to allow the freeway to follow a more direct path.  The upgrades to Highway 304 will provide better access to downtown than the current Highway 61.  In addition, the "main drag" through Argentum, the eponymous Argentum Boulevard will be extended to serve as a major surface arterial. 

-Two new highways are planned.  Highway 321 will connect to the new Argentum International Airport (ARX), while Highway 161 will connect to future residential and commercial development planned for the Winger Inlet area.

(End serious roadgeek content. ;))

Now onto replies:

Pat (patfirefghtr):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!  And thanks for catching that busted link, too. :)

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks, hope this one was to your liking.  As far as keeping the updates up, I'm trying, and so far, succeeding.  It really does feel good to keep the MD moving. :)

beskhu3epnm:  Thanks, man.  And to answer your question, yes.  And getting those highways and roads into the game. :D

bat:  Thanks, I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the Caldera Lane reconstruction.  Still got a long way to go on the airport, though. ;)

EDGE4194:  Thanks!  Hopefully the proposed map here gives you a good taste of what's to come. ;)

sebes:  Thanks, I'm glad to hear it was to your liking, and the commuters are quite happy with the new bypass.  Evel Kneivel (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evel_Kneivel) is reportedly disappointed, though.   I'm ready to get going on Highway 61 as well.   ;) 

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, Dustin!  Glad you're enjoying the Argentum flashbacks.

Hope you all enjoyed the map extravaganza . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)







Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: BigSlark on October 08, 2007, 06:10:33 AM
Alex,

That's a great intersection that you built, I'll have to keep it in mind the next time I'm building an urban avenue.

The maps and proposed highway plans for Argentum are great. I'm looking forward to seeing them realized and I smell MIS usage...

And finally, all of your cities appear to be grown. I really like to see that in a MD, it makes me happy to know that functional cities are  more than worthy to be shared with the community.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: Filasimo on October 08, 2007, 06:49:39 AM
again im fascinated with your highway proposal i hope ya do enviro studies as you make these highway developments you know how enviro people can get  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: Jmouse on October 08, 2007, 10:42:10 AM
Hey Alex, that's a great update. The RL transport view was very helpful, and the map you drew will help me follow the DOT's progress. Just wondering, though, what do these symbols  "----]      [----" on your map represent (Inlet St @ 61 is a good example)? My guess would be underground roads, but I'm not usually very good at guessing! :D

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: Pat on October 08, 2007, 11:20:27 AM

Alex that road map is stunning even with the new alingments and renumbering... wow what details i love it, thank you for the geekness  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: sebes on October 08, 2007, 01:03:46 PM
Wow - great update. Thanks for the road geek info - realy appreciated. And, as usual, I spent way to much time looking at your gorgeous maps.

But.... I wonder how you got the Argentum Transport Council to approve the new plans. I cannot believe that there is no direct connection planned from downtown to the airport !! The route via 4/61 and 161 is simply to long, commuters will probably use the new Calderalane-bypass en masse. The traffic jams and CO2 emission will have a negative impact on the Milpont area, maybe even on all shores on the Argentum inlet...

I think you'll have to plan some major infrastructure projects to guarantee access to the airport for the downtown business, to avoid that they will move to other cities... A tunnel to connect 304 from the Peninsula to the 161 could do that trick...

Think about this before it's too late Major  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 13-10/6/2007--Argentum Proposed Highway Plan)
Post by: figui on October 08, 2007, 08:27:49 PM
well, since it's my first time commenting here, i must say i really enjoy "studying" your maps. the way you deal developing your transportation system is admirable!
great job :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on October 08, 2007, 09:40:19 PM
Hi again everyone-

Work has begun on the new Highway 61 alignment.

This was Highway 61 at Campus Boulevard:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F6752%2Fu141sq2.jpg&hash=85d34625d7c8e30f93d8775dd341bfc32fa95576)


Here it is now.  The old highway has been completely demolished.  A number of nearby structures had to be demolished to make room for the new highway. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F3711%2Fu142sz1.jpg&hash=d9cfd4a85f3aaa64e36bbbbc90fac03553cc1c5c)


One potential issue in the proposed alignment has been found.  This is at the current intersection of Milpont Road and Skill Street (facing south).  The proposed plan had the interchange with the new Highway 4 alignment near this exact spot.  As you can see, there is a substantial stand of redwoods near the intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F8685%2Fu143ja0.jpg&hash=0d18092034f30c94ebc9025b2cd2fa5bcc2703c4)


In order to minimize the environmental impact, the two carriageways of Highway 61 will split and go around the redwoods, and the southbound lanes will take the former alignment of Milpont Road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F561%2Fu144ik9.jpg&hash=b4ee213d49d0ae355b35b0d986456bee18f587d0)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F681%2Fu147ta9.jpg&hash=2386cf58fc04ef1710453e7de65fc07044bbcd9a)


Here's a shot showing the site of both sides of Highway 61:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F3599%2Fu145wn1.jpg&hash=e744abcaebddf0254fbdf125b51eaad52f27b6d1)


The dirt area on the left side of this pic is the proposed alignment of Highway 4.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg478.imageshack.us%2Fimg478%2F6201%2Fu146ju8.jpg&hash=5671f46ce94bea0ee0ce234ad465a8f4e4adfb43)


Here's the southern end, where the two sides converge again, just past Redwood Way.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg368.imageshack.us%2Fimg368%2F8744%2F148yd6.jpg&hash=4fe94185e7b4330643e55c7d02a4bcabbf80ba4a)

Now onto replies:

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks for the compliments.  I'm glad I was able to pass on some intersection ideas, and knowing that you're a roadgeek yourself, I'm sure you've probably got some good ones as well.  And yes, the smell of MIS ramps is wafting in the air . . .

Ryan (Filasimo):  It appears we were thinking the same thing with the enviro studies.  I've always tried to keep natural resources intact while
building my transit networks, though I'm not always quite so cautious around buildings, as you probably saw this update. :D   Thanks for the comment, and glad you enjoyed the transportation plan. 

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the update, and that you got something out of it. :)  And yes, the little bracket things are for underpasses/overpasses and underground roads, though I've been toying with phasing them out (as I did on a few parts of the maps as an experiment). ;)

Pat (patfirefghtr):  I'm really happy to hear you enjoyed the geekness of the last update.  I can't help it. ;)  Thanks for the compliments on the map!

sebes:  Glad you enjoyed the roadgeek info, and I hope I didn't keep you from anything with the maps.  :D  I end up staring at them a lot myself, as I'm constantly trying to figure out what I can tear apart and improve.   ::)

As far as the airport goes, that was a very insightful comment.  Thanks! :thumbsup:  You're right that some of the other nearby cities would be chomping at the bit to steal some commerce away from Argentum.  However, that airport there is horribly outdated, so, in order to keep business in town, a new airport is being built on the other side of town, with a new freeway being built to access it.  However, it is a little misleading of me to still have Airport Road on there when there won't be an airport near it anymore . . .  ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg340.imageshack.us%2Fimg340%2F4228%2Fu14sebesroadpp0.jpg&hash=d2b46f788c68b32554b8da1b1996554a105df6a7)

figui:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the maps and I'm quite flattered that you like the transportation system. 

-Alex (Tarkus)










Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: BigSlark on October 08, 2007, 09:56:17 PM
And Tarkus is at it again...

To me, the greatest part of your reconstruction projects are the construction shots themselves and the detailed plan that you share with us all.

A few years ago, I spent most weekends on my motorcycle exploring the countryside around the construction of Interstate 22/Appalachian Development Corridor X (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_22) in Northwest Alabama and was amazed by the amount of earth moved. The area is pretty hilly and requires some impressive cuts and fills and deep excavations for drainage systems.

I wish I had a digital camera back then, I didn't want to haul my Canon SLR system around on gravel backroads for some odd reason.

Also, out of curiousity, what slope mod are you using now Alex? I've been using BRF's and the new RHW slope mod recently to great effect. *hint hint*

I'm looking forward to more and I hope I haven't overstepped the reader's line.

Cheers,
Kevin

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 08, 2007, 10:00:24 PM
Missed the maps above--they're something else, my friend! I don't know how you do it!

And the update looks great, too! I can't wait to see when Highway 61 is finished--revisited, if you will (couldn't resist that one, sorry)! Keep up the good work, my friend!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on October 09, 2007, 02:35:22 AM
Looking good there Alex.  Can't wait to see what version of the RHW you're going to be using for 61. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: bat on October 09, 2007, 06:50:23 AM
That new pictures are looking really great! Wonderful work! :thumbsup: Looking forward to more...



my 2950th post!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Filasimo on October 09, 2007, 08:35:24 AM
 :D   great update Alex seems that i have read your mind for this update....im curious how you are going to lay this out and will you be showing your latest work on the RHW in your upcoming updates....hehehe guess well have to STAY TUNED!  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: jplumbley on October 09, 2007, 08:38:45 AM
Hmmmm.. I think this was a good update.  But, it could have been made so much better... You needed to add some TLA-5 in there, I think you and I are gonna have to get some more textures together to finish the job, LOL.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Pat on October 09, 2007, 09:52:27 AM

Alex, so if i get this right the contractors are going doing a spilt in the road to avoid cutting down the trees?  But doesnt that throw off the budget a wee bit? Wouldnt it be easy to move the redwood trees, to make the best use of going straight and not looking like a drunk again lol...  Sorry to many questions this time around - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: sebes on October 09, 2007, 12:54:13 PM
Wow - I feel very much honoured!  And impressed by your decission to just move the airport...it takes a lot of political courage to do so.

I thought you might be interested in looking at some satelite images from the reconstructions of the A2 highway between Amsterdam and Utrecht. It's currently a 2x3 highway, and it's turned into a 2x5 highway. For years now, cars drive through what looks like endless plains of white sand. A few weeks ago I thought that this can probably be noticed on Google Earth as well, and indeed... enjoy!  (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=nl&geocode=&time=&date=&ttype=&q=breukelerwaard,+breukelen,+nl&sll=52.1738,4.988823&sspn=0.012738,0.02635&ie=UTF8&ll=52.174011,4.987278&spn=0.012738,0.02635&t=k&z=15&om=1) (you can follow the path North to Amsterdam or South to Utrecht)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Droftrah on October 10, 2007, 01:51:29 PM
Some times all you can do is  &apls

Outstanding, well done.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Ennedi on October 10, 2007, 03:26:57 PM
Wow, these roadworks go ahead really quickly, it seems I missed at least two updates ::)

I must say I am impressed of the scale of your project, and these plans are perfect done! :thumbsup: Wchich program did you use to make them?

An advice - I suppose even after flattening the terrain you will have various elevations of neighboring areas. Try to avoid dragging diagonal roads/highways uphill or downhill. It often looks bad and it is very difficult to improve it. Of course sometimes you don't have any other way :)

Good luck with this project, I am very curious of it's future development!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Jmouse on October 10, 2007, 05:34:29 PM
Hey Tarkus, that's another great update you've posted.
I'm wondering, however about all the transport-system changes occurring. Are you basing your decisions on in-game traffic data, RL layouts or whatever? Also, (and I do accept my throne as the queen of dumb questions &ops), I glanced back through the thread and saw a lot of traffic but no bus stops. What kind of mass transit system do you have? (And a thousand pardons if I missed it!)
Once again, I really enjoy this very enlightening thread and the development of your innovative layout! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Haljackey on October 15, 2007, 07:21:39 PM
Well I finally made it here, and I am here to stay.  Nice job with your region so far, and I will watch this thread as it is updated.  This is a huge improvement over old Argentum!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: calibanX on November 01, 2007, 12:40:34 AM
This is great. I hope you return to finish this. I'll be checking in.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Tarkus on November 01, 2007, 02:19:19 AM
Your timing is all too coincidental, calibanX. ;) 

Hi everyone-

Just back for a quick update, the first in quite some time.  RL and getting things done on the MIS setup have occupied my time as of late, but I've got some interesting things to show here. 

This pictures aren't terribly exciting, but they show how work is now progressing on Highway 104 (formerly Highway 4) near downtown.  As you can see, there's a lot of earth getting upturned here.  Some of this land will be redeveloped, and some of it will go toward improving 104, which will certainly need it as the main connector to downtown.  Still some rough slopes in here, which will be fixed as part of the improvement project.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-1.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-2.jpg)

I also wanted to answer some of the interesting questions Joan (Jmouse) asked regarding the transportation systems and their development.  It's far from being a "dumb question", and actually a very good one.  Throughout this MD, there's been a lot of focus on two cities, Wakeman and Argentum.  The ways in which I'm dealing with these two cities is quite different, and I would like to at least start describing how I plan everything out.

There are two main goals I have for all of my transportation systems--1) in-game functionality and 2) realism.  The situation with the systems in Argentum is rather interesting, as I will illustrate by showing my Traffic DataView for the city tile in which downtown Argentum is located. 

This is the overall Road Traffic load on the city's networks. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-3.jpg)

As you'll notice, most of the city's roads are green and properly functioning.  There are a couple of yellow and red spots, however.  Those are local residential streets, which I have mostly mitigated through various means--these include personal modifications to the Traffic Simulator, re-design and also the installation of the CAM.  Eventually, I will probably be switching over to the Traffic Simulator that mott has worked out for the NWM [link] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=2665.0).  If you haven't already, I'd suggest checking out his thread, as he has some very interesting and insightful things to say about the game's pathfinding engine and transit networks in general, and has offered his Alpha versions up for download.

So more or less, the network layout appears to be uncongested.  Here's the overall Road Traffic volumes for the city tile.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-4.jpg)

Traffic volumes are more or less evenly spread out across the city, though there is one notably dark blue path down in the southeast corner of the city.  Interestingly, though, if you were to look at the roads that were getting the most use, the vast majority of them would be Avenues.  The highway system, in this pic, is barely being used.  Of course, part of the highway system has been disconnected from the surface street network as a result of massive construction.  However, one of the main things I am aiming to do with the re-design of the regional highway infrastructure is to make sure it gets used.  As you will soon see in coming updates, the addition of the RHW Modular Interchange System (MIS) will assist a great deal in making sure Argentum has an effective highway system.

There is also a severe lack of realism on the current highways in the region, particularly with the placement of exits/interchanges, lack of directness, and the overall highway density.  The region was mostly built before I really knew much about scale--it's kind of become a guinea pig for "retrofitting" an older, existing city and increasing its realism. 

Here's another couple of Traffic Volume counts I thought I'd show you all for the heck of it.

This here is the Pedestrian Data:
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-5.jpg)

And one that will probably shock you.  The Bus Data:
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u15-6.jpg)

Looks a bit empty, doesn't it? ;)  That's because it is.  That's right, there are no buses running in Argentum.  Actually, no mass transit of any kind.  I'll elaborate on my reasoning behind this in later updates.

The situation with Wakeman's traffic planning is an entirely different animal, and will also be explained later.  It's been a very carefully controlled system.

Now onto replies:

Kevin (BigSlark):  Yes, I'm at it again.  I can't help it. :D  If I had a major Interstate going in nearby, I'd probably be going over and checking it out as well.  Unfortunately, I haven't been around anything quite of that scale here in Oregon, but the closest we probably came was US Highway 26 getting massively redesigned in the late-1990s/early 2000s just west of Portland [link] (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&time=&date=&ttype=&q=%22US+Highway+26%22+Skyline+Boulevard,+Portland,+OR&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.748002,82.265625&ie=UTF8&ll=45.508287,-122.739236&spn=0.007068,0.020084&t=k&z=16&om=1), with some rather elaborate C/D setups over a short area.  It's also in a hilly location in the Portland West Hills, so there was also quite a bit of terrain alteration required in order to make the necessary improvements. 

As far as slope mods go, I'm using the BRF without any alteration to the RHW--I'm typically using the Rail network to get smooth grades on things, though you've probably seen a few rather ridiculous looking slopes here and there--those are all on roads that are going to get torn up very soon. ;)

Dustin (thundercrack83): Thanks for the compliments.  I almost made the same pun myself, so it's all good.  In fact, I'm glad someone caught my little inside joke.   :)

James (rickmastfan67):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it.  And of course, I'm keeping the design of Highway 61 under wraps for a little longer still, though if you look at the pics closely, you might be able to make a very educated guess. ;)

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad it was to your liking, and hope you enjoyed this latest update.

Ryan (Filasimo):  That was pretty funny how that worked out. :D  I can say that some new RHW stuff is going to work its way into the regions here in short order (as soon as I finish modding it ;)).  Everyone will have to stay tuned. :D  Thanks for the compliments on the update as well!

Jason (jplumbley):  Yes, it definitely does need some TLA-5.   :P  I've got a few places in mind for it.  We are going to have to scrounge up some more textures.  Glad the update was to your liking otherwise, though. ;)

Pat (patfirefghtr):  That is a good point about Highway 61's little swerve.  Of course, it would be a bit expensive to transplant all those redwoods given their size, and the state DOT has a good plan worked out with regards to mitigating the swerve and using it to its advantage. ;)  No repeat of the Caldera Lane/Barnaby Drive fiasco, fortunately.  Though sometimes, you never know . . .  :P 

sebes:  Glad to hear you like your new road, and it will feature prominently in a few future updates--that whole area around it is getting redeveloped with the airport going away.  Moving the airport was indeed a big decision, but I think it will be best in the long run.  Well, actually, it still needs to be done, and it gives me yet another massive construction project to work on in Argentum.   :D

And many thanks for the Google Maps link to the A2 project!  I spent probably at least an hour just staring at the A2 and the road networks in and around Amsterdam and Utrecht.  I must say, the Dutch highway administration really seems to know what they're doing.  Everything looked well-maintained, and I happened to notice a few turbine interchanges scattered about.  It's definitely given me some ideas. ;)  Thanks again!

Droftah:  Thanks for the applause.  It is very much appreciated. :)

Adam (Ennedi):  Well, they were going quickly.  :D  Thanks for the compliments on the scale and planning!  I'm using Inkscape (http://www.inkscape.org/), a vector-image program for all of my maps and plans.  At some point, I'm thinking I might write up a tutorial on mapping with Inkscape, if there's interest.

And thanks for the tip about diagonal slopes.  I've noticed that as well, even with the BRF slope mod.  The way in which Maxis designed the diagonal system kind of didn't help our cause.  I've usually been laying rails to smooth things out as much as possible, which has helped a great deal, but it's still tricky sometimes. 

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments on the update and for asking a very good question--hope I was at least able to answer it with some degree of success.  It's probably something I may revisit as well.

Haljackey:  Hey, glad to see you made it over here, and thanks for the compliments! 

calibanX:  Thanks, glad you've enjoyed it so far, and I'm definitely planning on keeping it going, though at various times, it may be a bit sporadic.

Hope you all enjoyed the latest installment.  I'll be back with some new modding developments and applications for them here quite soon. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Filasimo on November 01, 2007, 02:30:26 AM
great update Alex  :thumbsup: i love seeing traffic data and how fully functional they are in cities. i cant wait to see further development of the 104 ()stsfd()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 14-10/8/2007--The Highway Plan in Action . . .)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on November 01, 2007, 02:34:37 AM
Good update! Hopefully, the roads surrounding 104 are fixed up along with the upgrade, they seem a little bumpy at the moment.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: bat on November 01, 2007, 02:53:19 AM
Wonderful new update there! Great work! Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: BigSlark on November 01, 2007, 06:28:23 AM
Alex,

Your methodology is behind the construction is interesting. I like watching you update an older region, it shows it can be done. The only warning I have is be careful with CAM in an older region-it can cause some serious demand problems.

US 26 looks like an interesting drive and the construction looks like it was great to see-I wouldn't want to commute through it though!

Right now MDOT is in the process of turning a RHW-4 into a RHW-6C with frontage roads in the northern suburbs of Jackson, that's a pretty interesting  project to watch. They're currently working on the frontage road dirt, apparently they're going to route all the traffic on the 3-lane frontage roads for awhile while they rebuild the main travel lanes down to the subbase! They'll be done in mid-2009, which isn't bad considering the number of overpasses and ramps they have to build, not to mention they have to 100,000+ vehicles a day traveling smoothly through the work zone...

If I ever figure out the BAT I've got some great ideas for new highway construction lots...

Cheers,
Kevin

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Jmouse on November 01, 2007, 09:58:14 AM
Thanks for the informative update, Tarkus. You've made me glad I asked! :D I'm not sure how a city can run so smoothly without mass transit, but it looks like you know how to make it happen. What was the population when the traffic data was gathered?
And I hope you'll revisit this subject from time to time. I'll admit I'd rather decorate a park or campus than build a highway, but transportation is one of the most important and difficult elements in SC4. You might call it a necessary evil!

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Haljackey on November 01, 2007, 01:14:23 PM
Interesting, Tarkus (Alex), I will be following...

Just one comment:  as you stated in your caption, the slope of the highway is really steep! Flatten that out  :satisfied:

-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Pat on November 01, 2007, 05:15:23 PM

Alex wow that was defiantly useful and informative update!!!  So Mr Tarkus are you stating that we might have anther fiasco on our hands??? lol sorry bad liner i couldn't resist, i so cant wait to see what happens on 61 and further progress of your transportation uniqueness - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: sebes on November 02, 2007, 04:37:55 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on November 01, 2007, 02:19:19 AM
I must say, the Dutch highway administration really seems to know what they're doing. 

Don't say that load here in Holland ! It's amazing how satelite images can lead to conclusions so far from reality  :P   

The A2 project is indeed great, but about 20-30 years to late, If you study the high way network you will find missing links everywhere, causing the west of the country come to complete stand still twice per day... (and with a bit storm or snow : the entire day  &mmm

But you show different governing in your city: the massive earth upturning looks awesome!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: calibanX on November 03, 2007, 12:52:58 AM
Well, that was very interesting. I'm glad you showed your traffic data views. Are you going to try to control the traffic solely by modifying the traffic simulator and adding the CAM or will you add mass transit at some point?

Great work. Keep showing us those data views. This is an interesting experiment.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Ennedi on November 05, 2007, 02:21:28 PM
I'm very interested in your work, Alex. The first interesting thing for me was - from the first moment I saw your MD - an attempt to rebuild an existing city, especially to improve it's road network system. But now I see the second fascinating problem: how to make a really functioning highway system, wchich will be used by residents and then useful in the city?
I am very curious of your solutions. I will start building two main cities in Shosaloza in the near future, I have some smaller towns yet, and I will connect them using highways and RHW. So I am in the critical moment in the transit theme ;)
In my old region (it was the first one in SC4) I tried to make something like the vascular system in the human body: the heart was a downtown with huge commercials, and it was a central point of the system, surrounded by residential and industrial areas. To go to work residents had to go from their houses to the nearest big junction, then along the big artery (highway, alley) to the center, and then to the industrial area (except these of them who were work in the center). So I had not many junctions on my highways, and I also hadn't a grid of streets and roads. Even if I had a residential area not far from an industrial one, I forced residents to go o work through the center.
Of course, with the city development, it was necessary to make more "central points". This system worked quite good, It's interesting for me what do you think about it and what is your idea (probably it is better, you are a specialist in this theme).

Your information about mass transit (lack of :D) in Argentum is interesting for me too.
In my old region I noticed a strange thing: if all residents had approximately the same distance to their work place (I used buses from the beginning, but no other mass transit at the first stage), the commute time was acceptable for all residents (I used the "Better Pathfinding 5xCapacity 10xSpeed 10xCommute" NAM plugin). But when I made only one additional mass transit line (for example a subway line from one of residential areas to the industrial one), I had immediately a problem with the commute time in every other residential area. So I was forced to build subway lines everywhere :D
This is the reason I am very curious what you will say about these buses ;)

If you would need any help from my speciality :D (for example easy adjusting slope heights to make viaducts etc.), tell me please here or PM me, I will help with pleasure :thumbsup: (I think it can be important when you will release the new MIS).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: thundercrack83 on November 05, 2007, 06:39:37 PM
Stunning update, Alex! I love the work being done on Highway 104, and the traffic data is interesting, too, though I am quite curious to hear your reason for no mass transit. I'll be looking forward to it, and the rest of your necxt update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: tkirch on November 06, 2007, 06:46:35 AM
Great update and you give us other MD'ers some great ideas that I want to use.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on November 11, 2007, 04:20:31 AM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update.  I think you'll enjoy this one.  Yes, the MIS has arrived--if you've been following the RHW Development thread [link] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=990.0), things have been coming along on it quite nicely, with a lot of development over the past week or so. 

Well, at any rate, here's one of the projects slated for the Bob Dylan Freeway (Highway 61 :D)--the Ferrum Road interchange, which is located on the north side of Argentum, in the Tarentum neighborhood.  Ferrum Road is particularly critical to North Argentum, providing freeway access to one of several high-tech districts in town, and it will also provide a crucial link to the new Argentum International Airport upon completion.

Construction has already begun in this shot.  Access to the freeway is currently through a rather unsafe at-grade intersection.  The pre-existing 2-lane overpass is still in place, so that traffic traveling past the highway on Ferrum Road can do so without dealing with the at-grade crossing.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-1.jpg)

The overpass demolished, with equipment in place to rebuild the overpass

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-2.jpg)

A couple of trees are in the way of the ROW for the ramps to and from northbound Highway 61.  However, the environmental impact is still minimal, a major goal of these new improvement projects--the giant stands of redwoods to the south are entirely undisturbed.  As you can see, a new 4-lane overpass has been built.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-4.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-5.jpg)

The basic design here for the ramps is a Parclo AB or Folded Diamond, chosen for environmental reasons.  (Also, a rather common interchange design here in Oregon.)

The ramps to/from the Southbound lanes

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-6.jpg)

The ramps to/from the Northbound lanes

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u16-7.jpg)

The interchange will probably still get a little tweaking here, just to improve flow a little more.

It's really late here, so I'm going to pull a David--I'll be back a little later (after some sleep) with responses to all the great replies.  Some of you have brought up some very interesting points.  Thanks for all your support, and I hope you enjoyed this latest installment.

-Alex (Tarkus)






Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 15-11/1/2007--Traffic Data and Highway 104 Preview)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on November 11, 2007, 04:27:41 AM
Heh, showing off yet more MIS stuff, eh? :P

It's some nice work!


edit: Whatever happened to that highway construction in Wakeman? The 7-tile wide RHW, that one. :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Sim_Jesse on November 11, 2007, 04:31:56 AM
Wow! Simply amazing!  &apls   I think we should all give a round of applause to Tarkus here!  :D &apls &apls   Can't wait for more  &hlp  I hope you update soon :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: capo on November 11, 2007, 04:47:14 AM
Not only the pictures show great detail, so does the information you give with it. I think even the demolishing of one tree would be thought of carefully in your city (as in RL, where you often even need to get a permit to cut down a tree). Every stage of the construction progress very clearly explained, after reading your update you have a feeling the whole construction made sense. I hope you were as clear to the people of Argentum as well explaining this major development, any mayor can learn from you :D

Excellent update, I have been lurking the RHW Development thread yes and I'm seeing more and more pictures I very much like :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: sebes on November 11, 2007, 04:52:33 AM
Grasping for breath.........   :o

That southbound ramp is amazing - wonderfull - fantastic!  
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 11, 2007, 06:13:42 AM
Quote from: sebes on November 11, 2007, 04:52:33 AM
Grasping for breath.........   :o

That southbound ramp is amazing - wonderfull - fantastic! 

....exactly    ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: thundercrack83 on November 11, 2007, 09:56:06 AM
Unbelievable!

The MIS is simply fantastic, my friend! You are a genius! I can't wait to see more of your outstanding work!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: figui on November 11, 2007, 10:21:52 AM
the users uf your transportation system will be very pleased with the implementation of the MIS, you're doing great use of it :thumbsup:

waiting (almost patiently) for more,
mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: quackmofro on November 11, 2007, 10:36:02 AM
The Parclo interchange looks great. Can't wait to see what else can be achieved with the MIS.

I love these DOT-style updates, too, one because they show construction progress on the highways, and two because of the considerations that go into placing the highways, like driver safety, traffic, and environmental protection. It's very realistic and refreshing.

Looking forward to the next update.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Pat on November 11, 2007, 10:41:30 AM
Quote from: EDGE4194 on November 11, 2007, 06:13:42 AM
....exactly    ;D

Yup........... Im that speachless Alex!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!    :thumbsup: &apls :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Jmouse on November 11, 2007, 11:47:31 AM
I've never seen a transport setup like this and look forward to seeing how it performs in game. Thanks for showing the step-by-step creation process.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: calibanX on November 11, 2007, 02:06:53 PM
Wow, how this game is changing. I'm looking forward to building my cities around more realistic transportation networks. Fantastic work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Haljackey on November 11, 2007, 04:04:59 PM
Nice example of a Parclo there Tarkus!

The only thing that bothers me is the sharp 90 degree turn on the right side of the interchange, something you really don't see too often in interchanges because of their low speeds (cough cough truck rollovers).  Other than that, nice update! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: bakerton on November 11, 2007, 05:04:33 PM
Tarkus, You have outdone yourself with all of this cool stuff and pictures. Looking forward to more. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: BigSlark on November 11, 2007, 07:57:56 PM
Excellent taunting, err, I mean update, Alex. The MIS is amazing in action!

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: Filasimo on November 12, 2007, 08:35:53 PM
Hal just fyi there are rural interchanges like that here in the states. ive seen alot of em so its perfectly fine imo to demonstrate how some interchanges are constructed like that.....anyways Alex great update and I have to say testing the MIS is really moving along and I cant wait to play with it more with the new updates you have for the alpha  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 16-11/11/2007--The MIS Arrives . . .)
Post by: bat on November 13, 2007, 08:18:10 AM
Wonderful update there and great pictures, Tarkus! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Tarkus on November 19, 2007, 05:13:36 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with another update here.  We're going back and taking a look at Highway 61 and how progress is coming with it.  This update will focus on the Department of Transportation's efforts to improve a 3-mile stretch of the highway north of Argentum, in an area known as Gray Creek.  Gray Creek is a primarily industrial area, and a dirty one at that.  There's also a great deal of farmland in the area.

As you can see from these pre-construction pics, Highway 61 was in very rough shape.  (All these pics are facing north ;))

This is just east of the industrial area:

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-1.jpg)

Here is the rather awkward interchange with Argentum Boulevard (Exit 63), which was formerly the route of Highway 61, before the current freeway alignment bypassed it.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-2.jpg)

And here's the illogical zig-zagging--this wasn't so much of a problem back when 61 was still a two-lane highway along the Argentum Boulevard alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-3.jpg)

This is the former interchange with Tarentum Lane, which will be re-routed as part of the project.  As you can see, they took quite a few shortcuts with this freeway, not even bothering to grade it properly.  You can also (faintly) see where the new alignment is going in.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-5.jpg)

Now, for the fun stuff.  Here's the new alignment being built, alongside the old alignment (to the right) and Edge Road (to the left).  (Edge Road, by the way, is named in honor of the member who posted the 200th comment, EDGE4194. ;))

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-mosaic.jpg)

Here, the southbound traffic has been transferred to the new Highway 61 alignment.  The railroad overpass you saw earlier had to be torn out in order to make room for the new alignment.  It also needed some significant grade improvements as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-4.jpg)

Here's the finished product:

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-7.jpg)

Here's what's going on with the new Argentum Boulevard interchange.  Here's after the overpass has been torn out, to make way for the new alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-6.jpg)

As you can see in this next image, both sides of the new alignment have been completed up to this point, but are transferring over to the old alignment.  There's also a new ramp in place to connect Argentum Boulevard to Southbound 61. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-8.jpg)

And the finished product.  You can also see the old Highway 61 alignment off to the side there.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-9.jpg)

Finally, a teaser of the next part of the Gray Creek segment of the Highway 61 realignment--the Landry Road interchange (Exit 64).  Landry Road is a major farm-to-market road in northern Emerson County, and will become of increasing importance, as it passes by the soon-to-be built Argentum International Airport (ARX).  I can tell you there's going to be some interesting things that will be occurring with this interchange . . .  ::)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u17-10.jpg)

Now, finally, onto replies (which I'm behind on  ::)):

Ryan (Filasimo): Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the traffic map update, and I'll definitely be coming back to that subject quite soon.  Work on the 104 (actually, according to the Proposed Highway Plan I posted [link] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg78865#msg78865), it's Highway 304  :D) will commence again shortly. ;)

Daniel (Shadow Assassin):  Thanks for the compliments on that update.  Don't worry--the roller coaster effect there will get minimized, once the non-drunk engineers come through.

bat:  Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed it.

Kevin (BigSlark):  I'm really quite happy to hear that the whole rebuilding thing is working out--thanks!  I was originally going to do that with my previous Argentum MD, but my city-building skills weren't quite at the right level to pull it off then.  I've actually had some interesting and very positive experiences with using the CAM in Argentum--the demand actually shot through the roof on most categories, which was a pleasant surprise. 

US 26 is indeed a bit of a mess--it's the only east-west freeway going out to the western suburbs, and they are probably going to need to widen some parts of it again soon because the City of Beaverton wants to cram another 150,000 people in within the next decade or so.  ODOT actually did something similar to what MDOT seems to have done in the construction of that project, by switching traffic onto the new C/D lane they built.  Only they screwed it up badly by putting in a left exit to Canyon Road (Oregon Highway 8) during the construction and didn't sign it properly. There was a period of about a week where there were dozens of accidents where people ran into the barriers after not realizing that lane exited.  That's ODOT for you.

Joan (Jmouse):  You're most certainly welcome for the traffic data update, and again, thanks for bringing that up.  :)   I don't remember exactly what the population on that tile was when I took those pics, but that tile tends to hover right around the 50,000 mark, +/- 5000 most of the time. 

Haljackey:  Yes, it is a bit steep. Don't worry, it'll look much better once the non-drunk engineers come through. :D 

Pat:  Thanks!  The DOT is trying desperately to avoid another fiasco--they don't exactly have the best reputation after some of the stuff they've pulled, so they are being much more careful this time.  Hope you enjoyed seeing more of 61.

sebes:  Sounds like ODOT was in charge of the A2 project. :D  That sounds like a real mess. &mmm  Thanks for the compliments--it's good to hear I'm doing better than the Dutch highway administration. ;)

calibanX:  Thanks for the feedback on the update--I'm glad it was interesting for you.  As far as the future plans for Argentum, the actual city tile area isn't going to be growing that much, and provided my updates to the highway system work as planned, I'm going to stick with my no-mass-transit plan.  I still haven't tried out mott's experiments yet, but at some point I'll be doing that and posting the data here.

Adam (Ennedi):  Thanks very much for the compliments!  It's really quite interesting to hear about your methods of building transit networks as well, and your experience with mass transit seems to be similar to things I've had happen.  Whenever I've built these sorts of vascular systems (that's a great analogy), they've tended to work quite well for me.  Most of my prior mass transit experiences had been with building El-Rail and Subway lines in some of my larger cities (population around 60,000-120,000), and I've generally had difficulty getting people to ride them, even though the routes were placed in logical places, near denser areas and going out toward the cities' airports.  I usually ended up tearing the lines down and putting roads in. :D 

I may have to take you up on your offer regarding making slopes for viaducts--thanks for the offer!

-Alex (Tarkus)

Note:  I'm still not done replying to comments, but I'll be continuing this post a little later tonight. ;) (as of 5:12pm Pacific Standard Time)



















Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Jmouse on November 19, 2007, 07:34:53 PM
Oh boy, more awesome transport stuff! :thumbsup: Did I mention (at least 300 times) that I have a lot to learn in this area, but you're one of the great teachers around. :)
I'm not good enough to figure out where you're going with this arrangement, but you can be sure I'll be watching closely.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Pat on November 19, 2007, 08:35:36 PM
ooooooh Alex that is wonderful update on highway 61 realignment project.... I did love it btw...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on November 19, 2007, 08:58:38 PM
Looks good, but it's still a little... bumpy.

Maybe it's time for a RHW slope mod? :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: bigdope404 on November 19, 2007, 09:28:19 PM
Here you go Shadow Assassin

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=990.460 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=990.460)

(bottom of page)

Great Job on the Interchange Tarkus!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: BigSlark on November 19, 2007, 09:33:14 PM
Alex,

Great update. You just keep teasing the world with the MIS, don't you?  :o I am!  $%Grinno$%

I really like your development and extensive use of RHW-2, by the way. You've got it all down pat.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Filasimo on November 19, 2007, 11:11:38 PM
hell of an update Alex, the transit improvements are proceeding fine. im curious to see where you are going with this in future updates  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 20, 2007, 05:06:27 AM
Alex- impressive update  :thumbsup: I am honored to have a road named after me, especially in your md  :) That rail bridge is new to me, and am curious where i can find it. I thoroughly enjoy your transit improvement projects and can't wait to see what gets the makeover next  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: bat on November 20, 2007, 06:39:42 AM
Welcome to page 12!!

Fantastic work on these highways and also some really nice looking farms there! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: thundercrack83 on November 20, 2007, 11:37:34 AM
Stunning work here, as always, Alex! One little subtlety that I love is your use of the NAM curves in the highway ramps. Very clever, my friend! It's always a pleasure to an update here. Keep it up!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Toichus Maximus on November 20, 2007, 01:22:15 PM
So, where are all the bleachers in the sun?? :P

Nice update.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Meastro444 on November 21, 2007, 07:03:33 AM
man i cannot believe ive missed this! it is lovely and seriously good looking!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: rickmastfan67 on November 21, 2007, 04:36:38 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on November 19, 2007, 05:13:36 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg204.imageshack.us%2Fimg204%2F1405%2Fu171af1.jpg&hash=b84f2c7c5dfd52b3fe854ac819758fe3738b6fda)
-----
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg263.imageshack.us%2Fimg263%2F425%2Fu178os4.jpg&hash=054f255fb7fc39de1dc138f43a1a81fe57aeb925)

Hey Alex, it looks like you need to work on some of the RUL's there to get the curves to show the correct textures. :P  The top picture I quoted is working fine, but somehow, the bottom one isn't.  So, you might want to look into the RUL area to see if that is able to be fixed.

Also, would appreciate it if you could give a heads up of a 56k warning when you have all of those images that aren't compressed even a tad.  All the images in the update post totaled to 6.53MB!  That took me forever to get all of the images to load, something like 45 minutes. :(  So, please keep us dial-up users in mind when you do the next update and try to compress the images a tad.  Don't forget to look @ my sig for ways to do that. ;) (Sry for the shameless little plug. :P)

Anyways, great update. ;) :thumbsup:

Quote from: BigSlark on November 19, 2007, 09:33:14 PM
I really like your development and extensive use of RHW-2, by the way. You've got it all down pat.

He wouldn't be able to use the RHW-2 extensively if it weren't for my work on creating the brand spanking new textures for that system. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on November 23, 2007, 07:03:09 PM
Awesome job with your city, Keep up the great work!

Your Friend;
Mayor Of Steven's Point & Maxiston
(Proud To Be Cities Of Sim Nation
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: bakerton on November 26, 2007, 08:02:40 AM
wowsers Tarkus. It is looking nice on how you did that storyline on the construction. Looking forward for more. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: el_cozu on November 29, 2007, 08:10:58 AM
Is there some kind of over passes or under passes for this MIS... and the RHW?

maybe there are already in the last RHW update but i cant find them..... cus i always have to transform the rural into avenue then into elevated hw... to pass avobe another transit system... i hope you can tell me about it
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 17-11/19/2007--Highway 61 Revisted, Gray Creek)
Post by: FrankU on December 19, 2007, 03:49:31 AM
Wow,

Today I found this MD and I am quite impressed. Towards what is this leading?

I am curious!

And a lot of hurrays!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . bulldozers . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on December 31, 2007, 12:07:09 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with more Tarkusian Cities, after over a one-month hiatus--precipitated first by college, then a broken elbow, and finally a new RHW version (which you'll get to play with shortly).

Well, we're back to the vicinity of Argentum, in the southern suburb of Angstrom, where work is underway on the drastic (fantastic  :D) re-alignment of Highway 61, the major north-south corridor through the region which, here at this point, will be multiplexed with Highway 4, the major east-west route.

You can see the faint outline of where the new freeway will be going--the road running north-south (this pic is facing north) is Concord Avenue, a collector-class route which serves many neighborhoods in the area . . .

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-1.jpg)

. . . including this one that is being torn down

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-2.jpg)

Break on through to the other side . . .

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-3.jpg)

Concord Avenue will need to pass over the new 4/61 freeway, so an overpass is being built.  In order to prevent disruption, a temporary re-alignment has been built to keep traffic flowing.  You may also notice that the road which connected into the neighborhood has been torn up.  State DOT officials determined it was a bit too close to the freeway and its right-of-way, so it was removed.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-4.jpg)

However, to provide another entry point to the remaining parts of this subdivision, a new street is being built south to Ballast Drive (the major east-west road here).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-5.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-6.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-7.jpg)

The Concord overpass is now built--part of the temporary access road is still in place in this pic.  You can also see another new street in the upper part of the pic, to allow access to the northern half of the neighborhood that was split by the freeway.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-8.jpg)

Now that Concord Avenue has been rebuilt, the crews can now begin work on the next road over, Grevano Drive (which is a major north-south arterial, running all the way from Angstrom, running by downtown Argentum and the university, up to the Gray Creek area we saw in the last update).  As you can see here, some considerable realignment will be involved. ;)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u18-9.jpg)

I'll be back with more later--including responding to all the replies that you have all been kind enough to leave while this MD here has been on hiatus.  I may even finally answer some questions regarding the infamous "mystery highway" in Wakeman--it's hit a few bumps in the road.

And anyone who can identify all the musical references in this update will get the new residential connector street named after them. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)





Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: Filasimo on December 31, 2007, 12:16:11 AM
hmmmmm i wonder what the next update may hold hehehehe and great work explaining the whole alignment! i always loved the detail you cover!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on December 31, 2007, 12:47:33 AM
Indeed, what's gonna happen next?

:P

Asphalt streets look great... but what sort of DOT upgrades all the highways at once? :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: bat on December 31, 2007, 02:26:42 AM
Great to see a new update there!
And that is a wonderful new update!
Looking forward to more in the new year...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: sebes on December 31, 2007, 02:31:15 AM
So realistic, what a fantastic  :P  way to end 2007!   


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: EDGE4194 on December 31, 2007, 05:52:42 AM
  :thumbsup: great update alex!  I love to see your DOT at work!  :D
Looking forward to more in the coming year- thanks for sharing your work  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: ejeff2007 on December 31, 2007, 06:11:58 AM
Quote from: Shadow Assassin on December 31, 2007, 12:47:33 AM
Indeed, what's gonna happen next?

:P

Asphalt streets look great... but what sort of DOT upgrades all the highways at once? :P


Their DOT must have some DEEEP pockets to be sure!  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: Lollo on December 31, 2007, 06:50:18 AM
Great update Tarkus... I like the fact that you face the re-alignment of a highway in such a real way! 

But hey... isn't "Break on Through To the Other Side" a song by The Doors???
I remember of something similar in Tony Hawk's Underground 2

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: BigSlark on December 31, 2007, 08:00:29 AM
Excellent update, Alex. I see only two solid musical references, The Doors "Break on Through" and "Highway 61 Revisited" by Bob Dylan. "Mystery Highway" makes me think of The Highwaymen, however, I'm not familiar with their work.

Once again, I'm extremely impressed with your construction. Your MD is by far one of the most convincing around.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: Jmouse on December 31, 2007, 09:13:16 AM
Welcome back, Tarkus. Sounds like you've had an eventful month.
Your transport adjustment looks like an interesting project to follow, and that's just what I'll be doing.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: bakerton on January 01, 2008, 10:25:04 AM
Are you sure that you don't work for the DOT? You a re big time a road geek as I am a map geek. Great job there my good man. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 18-12/30/2007--Mmm . . . Bulldozers . . .)
Post by: thundercrack83 on January 01, 2008, 05:10:57 PM
Another magnificent update, Alex! It's always a pleasure to see what you have going on here!

Happy New Year, my friend!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2008--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Tarkus on January 02, 2008, 11:49:00 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with yet another update--first of the new year.  Last time, we saw state DOT was building the Concord Avenue overpass for the new Highway 4/61 alignment, and beginning work on the Grevano Drive overpass.

In order to help reference everything, I've included a map of the city tile this update takes place on.  It's a bit outdated, but not too far gone.  I'll have a more updated one here soon.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/map-27-angstrom.jpg) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/map-27-angstrom.jpg)

In order to provide better access from the South Argentum/Angstrom area, the DOT has determined that there needs to be an interchange allowing access to the surface street network from 4/61 in this area, and they have chosen to place that interchange at Grevano Drive.  So, in addition to building the overpass, the state is collaborating with the Emerson County Department of Land Use and Transportation (LUT), but also the City of Argentum, to widen Grevano Drive from 2 to 4 lanes between Cubit Lane at the south end, and Fuller Road at the north end.

This is an overview of the north end of the project corridor.  You can also note the new freeway alignment paralleling Grevano Drive (to the right).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-1.jpg)

Here's another shot of the existing Grevano Drive, south of the new freeway at the intersection with Ballast Drive.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-2.jpg)

The road has been torn out now to make way for the overpass.  The new Concord Avenue overpass can be used in the meantime.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-3.jpg)

Here's a closer-in shot of Grevano Drive, with work in progress.  Unfortunately, at least some of those Ponderosa Pines are going to have to come down.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-5.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-6.jpg)

More work on the actual overpass

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-7.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-8.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-9.jpg)

Now that the new widened and re-aligned section of Grevano Drive north of Ballast Drive has been completed, work on Phase 2, from Cubit Drive to Ballast Drive.  Motorists can drive Grevano Drive in its entirety, after a short trip down the new, extended section of Ballast, connecting the new and old sections of Grevano.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u19-10.jpg)

We'll be tearing up the rest of it next time . . .

Now, finally onto replies and other matters . . .

No one quite got the two aforementioned references in the last update.  Both Kevin (BigSlark) and Lollo correctly got the reference to The Doors "Break On Through (To The Other Side)", but my rather subtle KT Tunstall reference went unnoticed:

Quote from: Tarkus on December 31, 2007, 12:07:09 AM
drastic (fantastic  :D)

Perhaps it was a little too subtle, though.  And thus, unfair . . . you know where I'm going with this, right? ;)

Well, both Kevin and Lollo will be immortalized on the map somewhere for their efforts . . . and because I'm in a generous mood, rather than just giving them little residential streets, they'll be getting . . . well . . . more substantial routes. ;)

Thanks for all the replies this past go around, it's good to be back in the swing of things.  I've responded to the most recent batch here:

Ryan (Filasimo): Well, I guess you'll have to stay tuned, as you always say. :D  Same armadillo time, same armadillo channel.  Thanks for tuning in this time around, and hope you enjoyed this latest "episode".

Daniel (Shadow Assassin): Thanks--Glad you liked the asphalt streets--I figured I should plug the SAM, too, now that there's a new version of that, too.  I'm especially a huge fan of that Asphalt set Heblem did.  And as far as how they got the money, well . . . one of the state's US senatorsmanaged to get some really nice "earmarks" as part of a recent federal transportation bill . . . 

bat:  Thanks!  I'm looking forward to making this a bit  . . . less sporadic.  Hope you had an excellent New Year, too!

sebes:  Thanks, I'm glad I managed to end 2007 alright, hope this proved a good start for 2008. 

EDGE4194:  It's really my pleasure to share this stuff with all of you--thanks!

ejeff2007:  They certainly do, particularly after that little "earmark".  And they really are having fun spending it. :D

Lollo:  It's good to see you over here!  I'm always shooting for realism, so thank you for the compliments.  Hope your New Year was enjoyable!

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, man.  I'm really flattered--I can't help throwing in massive amounts of roadgeekery. ;)

Joan (Jmouse):  Yes, it certainly has been an eventful month or so.  Thanks for welcoming me back, it's great to be going at this again, and I hope you enjoyed this latest construction project.

bakerton:  Nope, I don't work for the DOT, just a dedicated roadgeek, but thanks for the compliment. :)  ( . . .though I have toyed with the idea of getting a Highway Engineering degree at some point . . . )

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, it's always my pleasure sharing all of this stuff with you guys.  Happy New Year to you as well!

And Happy New Year to everyone!

I'll be back with what will be Tarkusian Cities' 20th Update here very soon.

-Alex (Tarkus)

Edit: One of the ImageShack servers the last three pics were posted on were down  as of 10:13am PST, so I've re-uploaded them--you should be able to see the full update now. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Filasimo on January 02, 2008, 11:57:20 PM
great update as always Alex I cant wait until your next update!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: jrone3 on January 03, 2008, 12:02:04 AM
I read this from the beginning and I have to say, I love the attention you give to your transportation network. Consider me a regular here, hopefully I can get a route or highway named after me.  ;D

P.S. Great job on the RHW v20. I am having loads of fun with the new MIS system.  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Pat on January 03, 2008, 12:38:52 AM
Alex woooohoooooooo Great new update for a new year!!! Fantastic stuff here and i cant wait to see more.....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Jmouse on January 03, 2008, 08:15:13 AM
Oh boy, I have so much to learn about transport systems, so I'm trying to keep up with these new developments.
Great update to jump start the new year! :thumbsup:

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: BigSlark on January 03, 2008, 09:13:30 AM
All right, Alex, you keep showing us these "future interchanges." Don't get me wrong, I love the construction photos, but to what purpose? There clearly aren't any overpasses being built, which leads me to believe that we will get to see the Alpha testing of the RHW4-El pieces around these parts.

I hope I'm right!  :thumbsup:

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Tarkus on January 03, 2008, 10:05:27 AM
Quote from: BigSlark on January 03, 2008, 09:13:30 AM
clearly aren't any overpasses being built

Well, that's only because Imageshack is playing "hard to get" on those pics right now that show the overpass. ;)  If you check back in a little while, the full update might actually show properly. 

Sorry for any inconvenience.

Edit: I re-uploaded them, so now they're back up.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: Lollo on January 03, 2008, 10:12:43 AM
Oh... just noticed this:

QuoteNow, finally onto replies and other matters . . .

No one quite got the two aforementioned references in the last update.  Both Kevin (BigSlark) and Lollo correctly got the reference to The Doors "Break On Through (To The Other Side)", but my rather subtle KT Tunstall reference went unnoticed:


Quote from: Tarkus on 31-12-2007, 09:07:09
drastic (fantastic  )


Perhaps it was a little too subtle, though.  And thus, unfair . . . you know where I'm going with this, right?

Well, both Kevin and Lollo will be immortalized on the map somewhere for their efforts . . . and because I'm in a generous mood, rather than just giving them little residential streets, they'll be getting . . . well . . . more substantial routes.

Well.... thank you....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19-1/2/2007--Grevano Drive Project, Angstrom, Pt 1)
Post by: thundercrack83 on January 03, 2008, 07:53:49 PM
Your maps are always a great addition here, my friend! I love looking at them! And the new update looks great, too. I can't wait to see what you have planned for the winner of your contest! Keep up the good work!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: Tarkus on January 04, 2008, 01:15:40 AM
Hi everyone-

Back for a quickie teaser here.  Well, our contest winners, Kevin (BigSlark) and Lollo are now on the map . . .

In the process of a couple of re-alignment projects that the City of Argentum undertook, two major arterials, Milpont Road and Redwood Way, became a bit disjointed, so in order to make things a bit more logical with the road names, the northern portion of Milpont Road (between Caldera Lane and Grevano Drive) will become Slark Way, while Redwood Way north of the Sebes Road intersection will become Lollo Boulevard.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg158.imageshack.us%2Fimg158%2F3359%2Fargentummap01042008vv0.png&hash=795e812e582d4227e3da849410f42dbc10cafb00)

I've been making a number of other improvements and amendments to the regional transportation map, and I'll be able to show you the whole region's transit grid here soon. ;)

And for those of you who have asked--what ever happened to the infamous "Mystery Highway" in Wakeman?  Well, as I mentioned a couple of updates ago, it ran into some difficulty--it seems they're having some difficulty getting enough funds (especially with Argentum's "earmarks"), and this map will give you a much better idea why (don't worry, the dark areas on the preview won't show up when you load the map up in full size):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg149.imageshack.us%2Fimg149%2F1018%2Fmysteryhighwayalignmentzq8.th.png&hash=ce867356142258ad4dfd6308540ecd4f141cc08d) (http://img149.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mysteryhighwayalignmentzq8.png)

As you can see, there's going to be several massive bridges (some of which are off the edge of the map to the east), one of which will need to be nearly 3 miles long.  Predicted length of all the bridges combined would be around 5 miles.  The state DOT is looking at some alternatives now in case the funding doesn't come through, including a southern route which requires only one more manageable bridge, and does not add much additional mileage to the overall freeway alignment.  We'll see how it turns out soon. ;)

Back with a full update a little later.

-Alex (Tarkus)

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on January 04, 2008, 03:58:58 AM
Heh, nice work. :P

Slark Way has a sort of a catchy ring to it. It's like "You can go down the parkway, on Slark Way." or somethin like that. :P

Love the map, btw. As for the 5 mile bridge combo thing, have you thought about combining bridges and tunnels in one massive project?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: bat on January 04, 2008, 05:14:41 AM
Great road map there, Tarkus!
Wonderful work on it!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: BigSlark on January 04, 2008, 09:00:01 AM
Alex,

Thanks for remembering my terribly lacking classic rock trivia by naming a road after me. I appreciate the immortality that I now have in Tarkusian Cities.

I love the latest maps, not just because my name is one them, but because they are really realistic.

Keep up the great work.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: Pat on January 04, 2008, 11:06:55 AM
Alex great new map there and i cant wait to see the full update later - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2007--Map Teaser)
Post by: sebes on January 04, 2008, 11:14:32 AM
Great updates again, oh you giant armadillo. I got lost looking at your maps again - man they are truely amazing... did you ever think of doing a tuturial on drawing those? I would be your  ever greatfull student  :thumbsup:

And congratz Lollo and Kevin for having now major roads that cross mine haha.

By the way Alex: you might want to change the year in your list of updates in the first post ;)


Edit: while I was writing this post, Dustin moved you to the classics - congratulations my friend for that well deserved qualification!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2008--Map Teaser)
Post by: thundercrack83 on January 04, 2008, 01:40:57 PM
Welcome to the Classics, my good friend!

This MD is now where it belongs!

Dustin

P.S.: The map teaser looks excellent, too!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2008--Map Teaser)
Post by: Jmouse on January 04, 2008, 05:45:08 PM
Congratulations on making it to the top floor, Tarkus. :thumbsup:  Who could doubt this MD would reach lofty heights and just keep going on climbing!

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2008--Map Teaser)
Post by: Lollo on January 07, 2008, 07:54:21 AM
QuoteThis MD is now where it belongs!

Sweet little statement.... and extremely true, too. Congrats Tarkus!

Regarding the update... is one of yours, so.... it couldn't be a bad one....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2008--Map Teaser)
Post by: Haljackey on January 07, 2008, 09:14:52 AM
Wow.  A classic already?  Congratulations Tarkus for your work on this awesome MD!  I can't wait to see what the new highway will look like once it is built! 

Anyways, you have had great updates so far, and I'm looking forward to your next one!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 19.5-1/4/2008--Map Teaser)
Post by: FrankU on January 07, 2008, 12:30:10 PM
What is a 260th post worth? Not really a gold medal I suppose.
But as we all know, that is never the reason to post....
Tarkus, your work is very detailed and I like it a lot.

Beautiful map. Is there any kind of tutorial about how to make these things?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Tarkus on January 15, 2008, 01:09:32 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back again with another update here.  As we saw the last full update, Grevano Drive was being torn up as part of a widening project. This is where we last left it:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg169.imageshack.us%2Fimg169%2F4892%2Fu1910we8.jpg&hash=3bd639cdb3d798f5a75bf92f4e283cf65ed64d4f)

Here's the map of the tile again for reference:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg139.imageshack.us%2Fimg139%2F2707%2Fmap27angstromkp2.th.jpg&hash=d0569a4ac4bac5cdae8c04e56b64356427d6e664) (http://img139.imageshack.us/my.php?image=map27angstromkp2.jpg)

Here's more pics of the project site from Phase 2, between Cubit Lane and Ballast Drive:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F2623%2Fu202hg6.jpg&hash=1734dcc1298670513c8b16f17e29249023409aa1)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F2789%2Fu201qi4.jpg&hash=6549bec21ae9f6962506cd1064bcda7522585e8e)

You can see in this pic that Cubit Lane is being widened at the Grevano Drive intersection as well.
(Edit: Thanks, bat, for noticing the missing bracket.  The pic is now fixed as of 10:50am PDT, 1/15)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F724%2Fu203ye7.jpg&hash=b9db42943398a33eabe59511d706dadee20f6467)

The road is now widened and following a much more direct alignment:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F4245%2Fu204sj5.jpg&hash=809c8725c9f4624d5f5908f23e60372f862a42c8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F7124%2Fu205yp2.jpg&hash=718c02a6bb59b2ddbc13719ba7228980ddb20dc8)

And now onto the really fun part . . . Grevano Drive's new interchange with the new Highway 4/61:

Work's already begun here.  You can see the vague outline of one of the ramps:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F9974%2Fu206eq3.jpg&hash=2e386854b605b337eb6c3d03881d2e4166d9217f)

A few more houses had to be torn out for the right-of-way:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F5670%2Fu207ik0.jpg&hash=8410c63039ded46e1cc553f4d11c3cbb2f44f476)

The ramps to Southbound 61:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F897%2Fu208kf8.jpg&hash=f4d2e66957663fee80e13dd2cf677297dae4dc53)

An overview shot, showing some of the improvements to Grevano Drive as well as more of the interchange.  Obviously, there's still quite a bit of work to do here, but the most important parts are done.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F5566%2Fu209gr7.jpg&hash=aa37ebe91ead610cf6276580835bf4ebd86e836e)

And that's Update 20.  Thanks for all your continued support--I'm just thrilled to be in the Classics section now, and I couldn't have done it without all of you, so thanks!   :)  I'll be back with more work on the new freeway next time, as well as replies.  And maybe another surprise . . .

. . . like a mapping tutorial . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Pat on January 15, 2008, 01:23:21 AM
yes yes it is like a mapping tut lol... Alex fantastic update here Bud and I cant wait to see more and will be back for more too........
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: bat on January 15, 2008, 05:06:44 AM
Quote from: Tarkus on January 15, 2008, 01:09:32 AM
(...)
You can see in this pic that Cubit Lane is being widened at the Grevano Drive intersection as well.

IMG]http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/724/u203ye7.jpg[/IMG]

(...)
There is missing a [ at this position!

And wonderful update there! Like the intersection!! :thumbsup:
Also congrats for being in the Classics! &apls

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Haljackey on January 15, 2008, 07:21:12 AM
Its looking great, Tarkus (Alex)!  Awesome job with the gentle road and highway curves, they look like they are placed perfectly! Congrats on making Classics, too!

"Staying Tuned" for more,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: figui on January 15, 2008, 09:00:17 AM
wow, wow, another great update!

also looking forward for that surprise  ;)

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Filasimo on January 15, 2008, 09:23:45 AM
Great update Alex!   That interchange reminds me of some found here in the outside parts of town  :thumbsup:  Looking forward to what you got in the next update! BTW congrats on making classics!!  &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: BigSlark on January 15, 2008, 10:52:05 AM
Excellent work, Alex. However, I'm still waiting for you tease us with new RHW pieces... ;)

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on January 15, 2008, 06:19:56 PM
Finally, an interchange, rather than just a non-stop state of construction.  ::)

I love the design, though.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: Jmouse on January 15, 2008, 07:17:31 PM
Amazing work with the transport system, Alex. Since very few cars are visible in the photos, I wonder if you've given it a good solid try in game. I ask because I've built some intersections which looked OK, but they didn't work out so I'm trying to learn from the masters.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on January 17, 2008, 09:36:24 PM
Alex, I've just finished reading through this MD, and I must say, your planning and attention to detail give me something to aspire to. If there's another thing we share in our playing styles, it has to be a Robert Moses-esque willingness to use eminent domain :D You've got me hooked now! I'll eagerly await the arrival of update #21, as well as (hopefully) a nice tutorial. Keep up the fantastic work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: sebes on January 20, 2008, 05:31:14 AM
Thanks for showing this fabulous intersection.... but I am a little bit lost on where on the map this is being built... maybe time to put the planned/highway under construction with some dots on your map?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 20-1/15/2008--Grevano Drive Widening/Interchange)
Post by: EDGE4194 on January 20, 2008, 06:34:17 AM
 :thumbsup: very nice update alex. i always look forward to the next construction project  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: Tarkus on January 23, 2008, 10:54:23 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with another update here.  And to reveal the surprise . . .

As hinted at in small print at the end of my last update, and as requested by many loyal readers, I'm devoting this update to showing how exactly I make these maps.  And afterwards, we'll look at some new maps. ;)

I've learned a few things studying David and Emil's tutorials (dedgren and emilin, for those who didn't know), as well as getting some tips from Daniel (Shadow Assassin) and I kind of landed on somewhat of a hybrid of their respective methods.  Making a road map of your cities isn't difficult to figure out, but it can be difficult to master.  If you have any familiarity with graphic design, this may be a bit tedious, so my apologies in advance.

The first step, obviously, is getting the street network layout out of the game and into some sort of graphics software.  The method I use involves taking the in-game Camera, and simply taking a picture of the Traffic DataView.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-1.jpg)

After this, I go into The GIMP (a free, open-source program, found here (http://www.gimp.org)), and I open up the screen capture I took in-game, and simply cut the Traffic DataView graph out, and place it into its own document.
Things are a bit small right now, so I upsize the graph, usually from the standard 256x256 up to either 1536x1536 or 2048x2048.  It'll get a bit pixelated after doing this, but considering what comes next, it's no issue at all.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-2.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-4.jpg)

After this, I close down The GIMP and open up another free, open-source program, Inkscape (found here (http://www.inkscape.org)).  Inkscape is a vector graphics program, and for those that don't know, vector graphics are essentially line-based, and it is a "lossless" medium (as opposed to conventional "raster graphics")--rescaling it will have no effect on quality. 

I open up my upsized Traffic DataView in Inkscape, and the remaining process involves just tracing the lines on the DataView with the Bezier Curve tool.  It works almost exactly like the "Line" tool in good old MSPaint (and most other image-editing programs), except it does have some other, more advanced features.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-5.jpg)

By default, the Bezier Curve tool produces rather thin-looking black lines at a 1px width.  Doesn't really look all that great.  But it's possible to edit the color and width, as well as other properties of the line quite easily.  All you need to do to bring up the "Fill and Stroke" dialog box, by double-clicking the little color swatches down in the lower  left corner.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-6.jpg)

The "Stroke paint" tab affects the color of the line--you can change the line either by using the color wheel, or by specifying a "web color" code in the "RGBA" box.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-7.jpg)

You can change the width in the "Stroke style" tab, as well as affecting various other characteristics of the line.

There are a few other little tricks I would like to share--namely, mapping bodies of water.  Typically, what I do involves tracing the shoreline all the way around, and then  connecting the ends to make a continuous line.  Then, I go back into the "Fill and Stroke" box, and under "Fill", I select the "Flat Color" box (the solid, filled-in square) and just specify the color.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-8.jpg)

The same method can be used for showing city boundaries, etc.

As far as adding text, it's just as simple as using the Text tool, and specifying the font and size.  Flipping and rotation is also easily possible--rotation by angles other than 90-degree increments is easily possible with the "Transform" option under the "Object" menu.  And because the text is in a vector format, there's no quality degradation from rotating it at an odd angle.

As far as smoothing things out on curves, the trick I usually do involves trying to conform to the curves as closely as possible simply by clicking new points to change the angle accordingly.  Upon doing this, I use the "Node" tool, which shows all the points on that line.  Then, I click each node on the curve and use either the "Make selected nodes smooth" or "Make selected nodes symmetric" (usually in combination--"Make selected nodes smooth" is just to the left of "symmetric") and it will make the line curve a bit more gently.  Sometimes, things will get a bit deformed, but it's possible to control the arc of the curve by using the little handles that now stick out from the node.  It'll take a little trial and error, but it can be done.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-11.jpg)

So, there you have it.  Obviously, if you have another software suite already that can handle both raster and vector graphics, like Photoshop or Paint Shop Pro, those will also work nicely in place of The GIMP and Inkscape, though you can't beat the price on those two programs.

And here's our finished product, a map of the Delphi area, which is located about 7 miles north of Argentum.  It's relatively remote as well, and as you can see, Highway 61 is actually only a 2-lane highway here (an aptly named one, too ;)).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg123.imageshack.us%2Fimg123%2F1729%2Fmap4delphixn1.th.png&hash=b0ca2212c339876bd74285bf32546d29efcfb251) (http://img123.imageshack.us/my.php?image=map4delphixn1.png)

Here's an in-game overhead shot of the area.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u21-12.jpg)

Hope that was at least somewhat useful. :)

Now, to catch up on replies.

Ryan (Filasimo): Thanks!  I was rather pleased with how that interchange came out as well--it was a bit tricky to build because of how it was situated, but I think it was worth it.

jrone3:  Thanks for the compliments, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!  I can't help but focus on my transit network--that's always been my favorite part of the game, and I'm always trying to find ways to improve the layout.  As far as "getting on the map", I do have quite a few streets and highways that need naming around my regions, so maybe. ;)  I'm also glad you're enjoying RHW v20. :)

Pat:  I'm very glad to hear you enjoyed the latest developments--thanks!  Hope you enjoyed the mapping tutorial.

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments!  Well, after catching up on Wildcat Junction, it looks to me like you have a pretty good grasp on things on the transit end. :)  As far as that freeway goes, when those pics were taken, it wasn't really connected up to much else.  The new Highway 61/Highway 4 alignment is being "progressively" phased in, as you'll see in the next few updates.  It should soon have a pretty healthy flow, at least, that's what I'm counting on. :D

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, and you're more than welcome for the new road!  I really appreciate hearing that you're enjoying the maps.  As far as getting teasers of new RHW pieces in, well, that depends on how development on my various projects goes. ;)  I'll just say some interesting stuff will be happening with Highway 61.

Lollo:  Thanks for the compliments, and you are also more than welcome for the road!

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm glad you've been enjoying my little "map teasers", and I hope you enjoyed this latest round. ;)

Daniel (Shadow Assassin):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the maps from the last couple go arounds, as well as the new interchange.  And yes, it does feel good to show an interchange, and the pace on them may pick up a little bit.  That's a really interesting idea you had there about the "Mystery Highway" proposal . . . you've got me thinking on that one.  I may just have to do an update on some of the options the DOT is looking at there. ;)

bat:  Thanks for the compliments on the map and the interchange, and for catching my little HTML glitch there!  It's very much appreciated.

sebes:  Thanks, I really am quite happy to hear you've been enjoying the maps, and I hope this tutorial update was useful for you. ;)  And that's an excellent suggestion about showing the location of the projects.  So, I have yet another map to show:

The little orange-and-yellow thingy roughly shows where the interchange was built last update.  And I've also drawn the proposed freeways as an overlay on here, so everyone can see where they line up with the existing ones (the proposed ones are the mauve-colored dashed lines, with the blue route markers).  There's a few other small updates on here as well.  This is all still quite tentative, but hopefully, it's of some value. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg176.imageshack.us%2Fimg176%2F498%2Fangstrom01232008eu0.th.png&hash=5b778aee38d5ad40b355bfd4a8a46b15ce66c115) (http://img176.imageshack.us/my.php?image=angstrom01232008eu0.png)

Haljackey:  Thanks!  I'm glad to hear you liked the curve setup there.  It's fun finally being able to get a chance to really play with these toys we NAMites created.

FrankU:  Thanks for the compliments--I'm really glad you like it.  And as far as the map tutorial goes, hopefully, this update answered some questions for you. ;)

Mauricio (figui):  Thanks!  I hope the surprise was worth the wait.

woodb3kmaster:  Thanks very much for the compliments, and it's great to see more roadgeeks around.  I guess I have been getting a bit Moses-esque here.  I usually try to plan ahead with my transit networks, but the amateur highway engineer in me always wants to tweak things just a little further, even if it means knocking over a few buildings. ;)  Hope you enjoyed the map tutorial as well.

EDGE4194:  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you're looking forward to the next project.  I am too. :)

Well, that's it for this update.  Thanks for all your comments, everyone.  It's really appreciated.  More road construction ahead . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: mightygoose on January 23, 2008, 11:09:06 PM
very nice technique friend, keep up the impressive roadgeekery :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: figui on January 24, 2008, 07:20:27 AM
 :thumbsup:
i'll try this method as soon as i can, thank you alex!

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: bat on January 24, 2008, 08:12:14 AM
Yes, thanks for this great tutorial!!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: schm0 on January 24, 2008, 10:18:09 AM
Tarkus: Great tutorial, but why didn't you continue to use the GIMP? It can do all the things you did in the other program.

Also, keep up the good work with your CJ! Very fun to read! :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: sebes on January 25, 2008, 05:21:26 AM
Thank you Alex for this tuturial - one day I will give it a try and follow your process as I think your maps are awesome!

Also thanks for presenting the Angstrom map with the planned highways ( I added a shortcut on my desktop to this masterpiece for easy reference for you future updates  ;) ) Mapgeek as I am I always wanna know where we are in the map  ?=mad)= .....

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: dedgren on January 25, 2008, 08:11:17 AM
Alex:

A very nice and very straightforward tutorial.  It's easy to get lost in the micro-details of cartography- you've demonstrated that anyone who's willing to take the time with just a few simple tools can create output that can stand quite nicely on its own.

As an aside, and a user of Paint Shop Pro, I have to say that I'm quite impressed, feature-wise, by InkScape.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: thundercrack83 on January 25, 2008, 01:39:14 PM
So THAT's how it's done! Magnificent tutorial, Alex! I'm going to have to sit down one of these days and give it a try!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on January 25, 2008, 10:29:19 PM
Tarkus... maybe you want to care about your residents?  $%Grinno$% I see a lot of destruction with the rerouted Bob Dylan Freeway... :D

I propose a less disturbing reroute...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg444.imageshack.us%2Fimg444%2F5154%2Fbobdylanminorrerouteyi8.png&hash=d0eb412f212d878326229b77501945d69c89243b)

Basically, the Argentum Bvld Interchange will be relocated to Caldera Lane (or it could be removed completely). Argentum Bvld will then intersect with Caldera Lane, taking up some of the old route of the Bob Dylan Freeway. Bob Dylan Freeway itself will be rerouted to make it straighter.

Of course, I don't want to take too much from your work, but this I think is more environmentally-friendly and less disturbing for residents (if the residents were alive, of course).

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: Filasimo on January 25, 2008, 11:33:09 PM
cool update there Alex!  :thumbsup:  im sure now all ya created are wannabe mapmakers  copying your updates :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: EDGE4194 on January 26, 2008, 04:24:10 AM
thanks alex for that fantastic tutorial. I have been wanting to make maps for my cities, and now I can.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: dragonshardz on January 28, 2008, 05:28:14 PM
Hey Tarkus i'm back in the MD section. Great updates.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: Jmouse on January 30, 2008, 04:53:21 PM
Wonderful tutorial, Alex!
I'm guessing this will work in Adobe Illustrator and look forward to trying out your approach to map making soon.
Please forgive the short post, but I've been away for a few days and I'm trying to catch up.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: BigSlark on January 30, 2008, 05:25:53 PM
Great tutorial, Alex. I'll have to give a try one of these days soon.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 21-1/23/2008--Map Tutorial)
Post by: FrankU on February 03, 2008, 06:01:15 AM
Thanks for the tutorial!
Great. &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: Tarkus on February 04, 2008, 05:30:00 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with more Tarkusian Cities, and once again, we'll be returning to check on the progress of the Bob Dylan Freeway Corridor Realignment Project on the south side of Argentum, near the town of Angstrom.  But first, I'm going to change things up a little and get into replies. ;)

mightygoose:  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the roadgeekery and the map tutorial. 

figui:  You're most certainly welcome.   :)

schm0:  Thanks, I'm glad you've enjoyed the MD thus far!  As far as the graphics software goes, that's an excellent question.  I originally had been doing all my maps strictly in The GIMP, but I've always found the some of the tools (particularly the Paths tool) to be a bit awkward, and I've found that working in a stricter vector environment (like Inkscape) is much less system-intensive.  It's really ultimately a matter of what tools with which one is most comfortable.

sebes:  You're most welcome for the tutorial--I really do hope it's useful.  I'm really quite stoked to hear people are putting desktop shortcuts to my maps--I never would have expected it in a million years.  You'll have a new shortcut to make after this update. ;)

David (dedgren):  Thanks for the compliments on the tutorial--it really means quite a lot to me to hear that from someone who is far more talented at this mapping thing. :)

As far as Inkscape goes, I have to thank Daniel (Shadow Assassin) for recommending it to me.  I must say, it is one of the better free/open-source graphics programs out there.  I'm still learning new tricks with it every time I use it.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the tutorial, and I'd be curious to see what you (or anyone else) comes up with.  I'll probably end up staring at them for hours myself.  Never can have too many maps. :)

Allan Kuan:  Thanks for the suggestion there!  I really do enjoy getting feedback on my layouts and whatnot, so you haven't taken anything from my work.  As far as that particular setup you have developed there, had there been some sort of significant development there, or a particularly sensitive environment there, I probably would have proposed that.  However, the area where the new Bob Dylan Freeway alignment is slated to pass through is nothing but open space and marginal farmland that was about to get plowed under anyway as the city expanded.  :D 

This is a pic of the south end where the old alignment and the new alignment meet (just west of Angstrom City Limits):

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-1.jpg)

So, before any serious development took place there, it made sense to run the freeway through there, especially since it will really be needed quite soon.  The Highway 220 proposal there (which will tie into Cubit Lane) will be a bit trickier, though, as there is some development there, as well as a lot of surface streets that will have to be taken into consideration.

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it.  The more maps the merrier, I say. :D

EDGE4194:  You're most welcome for the tutorial--I can't wait to see what you come up with!

dragonshardz:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the updates!

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments on the tutorial, and I don't think it would be terribly difficult to replicate the method in Illustrator.  In fact, if anything, it'll probably be a bit easier.  And no worries about the short post.  I hope everything is alright down in Arkansas after the storm, and like many others here I'm sure, I'm going to miss Wildcat Junction.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, and you're most certainly welcome, and I'd definitely be interested in seeing what you come up with.

FrankU:  You're welcome!  Hope it was useful for you.

_____________________________________________________

Now onto the update.  First things first.  I promised sebes a new map.  This map is actually "jumping ahead" on things a little bit.  You'll see some features of the next update already in place here.  The main focus of the update is marked, and secondary focus (which we'll begin with) should be fairly easy to find.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/angstrommap02042008.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/angstrommap02042008.png)

(There's also a rather odd series of hidden references on some of the residential streets, too. ;))

Work is continuing on putting Highway 61 through, and in order to get through a rather steep hill at a reasonable grade, the blasting crews have been brought in.  (This is on the north end of the map, just to the east of Grevano Drive)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-2.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-3.jpg)

At the other end of the project, Caldera Lane (remember it?) will be re-aligned to make room for the new freeway.  The existing alignment is not particularly favorable, as it curves in the middle of what will be Highway 61, and for other reasons you'll see rather soon.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-4.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-5.jpg)

In order to make room for the overpass, the curves have had to be made a little sharper, but smoother.  In the second pic, you can also see the existing Highway 61 alignment, as well where the new one comes in in relation.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-6.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-7.jpg)

Here's another pic of where the new and old alignments meet, right at the existing interchange with the southern segment of Argentum Boulevard, which runs down to downtown Angstrom.  (A northern segment of Argentum Boulevard runs through downtown Argentum up to Gray Creek, which was formerly part of Highway 61 until it was decommissioned with the completion of the existing freeway).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-8.jpg)

Wilson Road has also been closed in anticipation of more construction.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u22-9.jpg)

And now for something completely different.  I've started playing around with terrain modding, and developed a new mod using c.p.'s (aka cycledogg) textures.  I'm a big fan of his terrain textures, and have been using his Grand Canyon mod for most of this MD, but I always felt it was more suited for the deserts of the Southwestern US, rather than the deserts of the Northwestern US.  I may still tweak it a little, but thus far, I'm fairly happy with it.  If anyone's interested in it, I could make the terrain controller publicly available.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/new-city-feb.-1-001202378775.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/new-city-feb.-16-001202378812.jpg)

That's it for this update.  More construction ahead . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)






Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: Jmouse on February 04, 2008, 06:31:12 PM
Well, I think I'm finally starting to make some sense of your mapping techniques, Alex, along with your realignments and reasons for them.
I've put the map above on the desktop so I can follow your train of thought better. It looks so realistic -- like some published in our phone book or my dogeared 2006 Rand McNally road atlas. :thumbsup:
I'm still a bit confused about the various approaches to city planning, though. It's makes me think of the age-old chicken/egg question - which comes first, the complex highway systems or the residents? ::)
Now that I've been forced to start over, however, I want to adapt what I've learned here at SC4D to my own playing style and learn even more along the way. So I hope you won't mind my asking a lot of questions as development progresses. In fact, I'd like to PM a small map segment to you which you might find interesting.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: Filasimo on February 04, 2008, 06:42:50 PM
great update alex and that terrain mod is looking great!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: thundercrack83 on February 04, 2008, 07:09:41 PM
I agree with Ryan, that terrain mod looks really great, Alex. I like it a lot!

And the construction of the new highway looks very promising, too! It's always great to see what you've got going on here!

Can't wait to see more!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: bat on February 05, 2008, 06:43:10 AM
That's another wonderful update there, Tarkus!
Great work!

Also looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: Pat on February 05, 2008, 06:29:52 PM
Alex I just don't know what to say here but YEA!!! I love the map's and the tut I could have sworn I had left a comment but I guess alas I didnt hmmmm? But anways I loved the tut on map making and I even downloaded GIMP so I know I read but i guess I never left my mark lol.....

Anyways onto the current update here I still dont know what to say that aint so normal things of saying lol.... Take that as a compliment my friend and I look forward to see what you do next in the re-alignments
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: figui on February 05, 2008, 07:15:25 PM
nice update here!
as usual, the constructors are really busy :P

about the new terrain mod, i do like it. i even prefere it than the old one. just my opinion ;)

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: mightygoose on February 05, 2008, 11:32:27 PM
great terrain mod
please do make it available
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: FrankU on February 06, 2008, 03:21:17 AM
Yup! It's great. &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: EDGE4194 on February 06, 2008, 05:25:21 AM
I love the terrain  &apls and would love to gets my hands on it  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: Haljackey on February 06, 2008, 04:08:10 PM
Wow, a lot of work is being putting into this new highway alignment. I can't wait to see what it looks like!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: dragonshardz on February 06, 2008, 04:12:00 PM
great terrain mod. I would like that it would go perfectly for an adjunct region next to my first.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 22-2/4/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part I)
Post by: FrankU on February 07, 2008, 03:59:19 AM
Sorry 'bout the double post, but I couldn't resits to have finally reached the moment that I can post on a 00 number.
300!
Congratulations to you Tarkus! Great work. &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: Tarkus on February 08, 2008, 02:40:02 AM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update.  I'll be giving the construction crews a brief respite this time around, though as you'll soon see, the construction zones are completely unavoidable. :D

First things first:

REPLIES

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments on the map, and for putting it on your desktop!  I'm glad to hear my realignments are making some sense as well, though knowing how I obsess over my roads, it's likely that I may be tearing them all up yet again. :D (I've already drastically altered things in the city at least 3-4 times before I started the MD, and this new Hwy. 61 alignment is actually closer to its original alignment from 2 years ago.)   

And again, you've asked a very interesting question, which is really quite excellent. :thumbsup:  I've kind of used a combination of the two approaches at various times--a lot of what I've been doing this time around is replacing things in response to existing growth and future growth.  I've seen too many times where the latter has been neglected horribly, usually due to a lack of communication between planners, developers and transportation agencies, so a lot of my realignments have that in mind.  The South Argentum/Angstrom area where the past few updates have been focused has been growing quite rapidly, and the new freeway alignment is at least partially focused on providing better connectivity with development that will be occurring east of Grevano Drive, among other locations.

And of course, you're always more than welcome to ask questions along the way.  You've really brought up some interesting points and made me think things over even more carefully.  And you're also more than welcome to PM me a map segment--I'd love to see it!

Ryan (Filasimo):  Thanks, man!  I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the update and liked the terrain mod.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm very happy to hear the terrain mod was to your liking, and the construction as well.  There will be plenty more where that came from as well. ;)

bat:  Thanks, I really appreciate it!

Pat:  Thanks!  It's good to hear you enjoyed the tutorial from last time, and I definitely will take that as a compliment! :)

Mauricio (figui):  Yes, those construction crews are certainly getting a lot of hours.  I'd guess it'd probably be good for the city's economy.  And thanks for the compliments on the update and the terrain mod!  It came out better than I expected. :D

mightygoose:  Thanks for the support on the terrain mod!  It is indeed looking like I will be releasing the terrain mod in the very near future. ;)

FrankU:  No worries on the double post--thanks for pushing me over the 300 milestone!  And for that, you'll be getting on the map, in Argentum's Cuprum neighborhood.  (You'll note there's now a "Frank Way".)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg146.imageshack.us%2Fimg146%2F3046%2Fcuprummap02082008gq5.th.png&hash=408f8389ea33b62dd0330f9e6648ed3dba62f204) (http://img146.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cuprummap02082008gq5.png)

EDGE4194:  Thanks for the encouragement on the terrain--it'll be publicly released quite soon!

Haljackey:  Thanks!  I can't wait to see what it looks like either when it gets done. :D  I've still got a ways to go on it (and some new things I'll be adding to the RHW mod to make it all possible ;)). 

dragonshardz:  I'm glad to hear you like the new terrain mod--thanks!

______________________________________

Now onto the update.  I thought I'd change things up a little and show what downtown Argentum looks like, and show the first night shots I've ever shown in here, using Gizmo's fantastic new Day/Night mod.  It's a rather unusual downtown (and indeed, the entire town layout is unusual), in that it's mostly low-rise, but there are a few buildings that are much taller, creating a sort of "monolith" effect.  (For you CAM enthusiasts out there, there's two Stage 11 CAMeLots in there--in a city tile of 45,000.)

I'll begin by showing a mosaic.  As you can see, there's some construction going on downtown as well.  The old Highway 61 alignment is visible at the top of the mosaic, and the ramps to it are all closed, seen as how it's slated to be demolished shortly. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-mosaic1.jpg)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-mosaic2.jpg)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-mosaic3.jpg)

Here's a view from further out.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-1.jpg)

Here's the city at sunrise, from a different angle (looking east instead of south, as in the mosaic and the last pic).  Also note the impact crater there--it's a sort of landmark in the city.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-3.jpg)

And a random pic from the north end of Argentum, at night in the more suburban area.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u23-2.jpg)

I'll be back to update on Highway 61's progress next time.

-Alex (Tarkus)



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: Lollo on February 08, 2008, 06:10:27 AM
Oh alex, nice random pics, expecially the ones at night. I really enjoyed the tutorial wich i find  extremely useful and well-done. I think i'll start to make my own map with that tecnique! You continue to amaze us...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: Filasimo on February 08, 2008, 06:36:23 AM
finally the city exposed! what are the chances of the population doubling or tripling?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: bat on February 08, 2008, 08:00:39 AM
Great new mosaic there and wonderful night shots, too!
Also wonderful work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: figui on February 08, 2008, 09:18:41 AM
nice update!
the effect created by mostly low and some high rise buildings looks great.
and Gizmo's mod looks better every pic i see :thumbsup:

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: Jmouse on February 08, 2008, 12:18:19 PM
Oh, I LOVE night shots, so by all means, give us more, more, more, especially the mosaics! :thumbsup:
The "view from further out" and the sunrise are spectacular as well. The last one is a bit dark, but that's the way some parts of town look in RL.
Thanks for sharing your ideas on transport, and I'll be sending that PM along soon.

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 23-2/8/2008--Downtown Argentum at Night+Mosaic)
Post by: quackmofro on February 11, 2008, 11:26:24 PM
The sunrise pic is definitely my favorite. It's a wonderful looking city, and Gizmo's mod really makes nighttime in the game spectacular. The new terrain is great as well. It's more suited to the geography of the region and the flora. But I still love the southwest and primarily base my regions on the deserts (e.g. Palm Springs, CA).

I'm looking forward to seeing more, especially some more showcasing of the RHW.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Tarkus on February 12, 2008, 01:41:17 AM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update.  But first, replies . . .

Lollo:  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the random pics and that the mapping tutorial was of some use for you.  The more maps the merrier!

Ryan (Filasimo):  Yes, I finally decided to show the actual downtown area.  Figured it was a good an opportunity as any to mess around with Gizmo's mod. :D  As far as the city doubling or tripling in population, we'll see.  The regional population (currently around 90,000) will most certainly go up considerably.  The tile Argentum is on will probably not be growing over 60,000 (it's at 45,000 right now), and that's mostly an intentional thing.  (I have some rather odd urban planning goals in mind here.  ()stsfd())

Of course, the game's population figures are totally skewed and twice what they really should be (as per David's scaling discussion in 3RR-ST some time ago), which I would account for as what I call "ambient population" (which needed for the game's mechanics to work properly--that's another story entirely :D).  So really, the region is at about 45,000, and the city at 22,500.  A double/triple from that level might be more plausible. ;)  Thanks for asking, and sorry for going off on a tangent. :D

bat:  Thanks for the compliments on the mosaic and the night shots!   It's been awhile since I've done a mosaic here, so I figured "why not?"

Mauricio (figui):  Thanks, I'm glad to hear the effect came across well, and I'm increasingly growing fond of Gizmo's mod as well.  It seems to me to have a bit more natural night shade to it than the Maxis nights.

Joan (Jmouse):  I'm really glad to hear you liked the night shots--those were my first ones here, so I'm glad to hear they turned out well--thanks!  And I definitely need to start using mosaics again.  It's my pleasure to discuss transport ideas as well, anytime. :)

quackmofro:  Thanks!  The sunrise pic was a bit of an accident, but I'm glad to hear it turned out well, and I'm glad to hear you like the city and the new terrain mod.  I tend to go all-desert these days as well.  It's been at least a year since I've used any sort of "green" terrain, so it's good to hear I'm not the only one.  :D

_________________________________
Now onto
UPDATE 24

(Lately, I have an urge to use the scrolling text. :D)

Well, as the title of this update indicates, we're back on the site of the Highway 61 realignment project, in South Argentum.  It's also the last update with the old terrain mod.  Here's the map again from Update 22, just for convenient reference (it hasn't changed any, though some of the stuff from this update was "preemptively" put on there.)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/angstrommap02042008.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/angstrommap02042008.png)

Here's the old Highway 61/Argentum Boulevard interchange.  Now you see it . . .

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-1.jpg)

. . . now you don't (and apparently, some errant motorists didn't believe that the interchange wasn't really there anymore). 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-2.jpg)

Work being done to reconnect the old freeway with the new alignment, on a temporary basis.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-3.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-4.jpg)

Temporary onramp from Southbound 61 to Argentum Boulevard

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-5.jpg)

The temporary 61 alignment is now built, though a temporary ramp is still needed to connect Argentum Boulevard to Northbound 61.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg143.imageshack.us%2Fimg143%2F3030%2Fu246ue5.jpg&hash=a00894b6c2ff1220d955379f2997dcb5e6907d97)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg143.imageshack.us%2Fimg143%2F2848%2Fu247bs7.jpg&hash=e89d19c5f305784a3bd1932bcce504adf7a63a73)

The temporary ramp crosses under Caldera Lane before merging onto the new 61 alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-6.jpg)

An overview of the temporary alignment and interchange.  You can see the new alignment being worked on as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-9.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-11.jpg)

Grading being done on the remainder of the new alignment, at Wilson Road, which will continue to exist in two separate, disconnected segments.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-10.jpg)

Caldera Lane, where it meets the old freeway alignment, is temporarily closed.  The old freeway alignment will actually be used for the new, "reunified" alignment of Argentum Boulevard (connecting the north and south segments), which will exist as a partial limited access route.  It will intersect Caldera Lane at-grade, with a signal.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/u24-12.jpg)

More re-alignment next time . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: bat on February 12, 2008, 08:48:12 AM
Another great update there, Tarkus! :thumbsup:

(And congrats on more than 300 comments!!)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: JoeST on February 12, 2008, 09:13:05 AM
Looking good, cant wait for more...

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Pat on February 12, 2008, 10:53:17 AM
Alex OMG WOW night shots!!! anther update soo soon wow... I love the merger and I cant wait for more.....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: thundercrack83 on February 12, 2008, 10:55:58 AM
Whoa, I missed an update here. Sorry about that, my friend! Won't happen again!

The night shots of Argentum look fantastic, and the new realignment shots in this update are great, too! I find it very interesting to watch as you reinvent the infrastructure of the area, it's almost as though we're watching s you're thinking it through. Keep up the splendid work, Alex, and I'll be back to see what's next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Jmouse on February 12, 2008, 12:14:10 PM
*Displays map saved on desktop*

Well, I'm starting to see how and where all this is taking shape. :)

Looking at the last photo reminds me of Houston's early transport expansion about 50 years ago. Guess that was the year I learned the term "eminent domain!" The new freeway ended up exposing lots of back yards, and my mother often expressed her sympathy for the homeowners and her relief that none of those back yards belonged to her! Over the years I saw many more transport projects come and go, but that first one made an unusually strong impression for some reason. Go figure! &mmm

Is the population large enough yet to give these changes a good workout and see how they hold up? About the only thing I've really learned about transport systems in SC4 is that Sim's driving habits are often unrelated to human logic! :D

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: sebes on February 12, 2008, 01:12:29 PM
Thanks again Alex - I enjoyed the update and like Joan, I have my own collection of Argentum shortcuts on my desktop to follow where we're all heading to ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Filasimo on February 12, 2008, 01:43:31 PM
another great update alex, and no worries if ya went off tanget, im looking forward to see how this turns out  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Haljackey on February 12, 2008, 04:51:18 PM
Nice job Tarkus (Alex)!  I especially like the grading photo, a nice improvement!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on February 13, 2008, 03:55:34 AM
Very nice, but don't you forget to leave room if that stretch of highway needs to be widened to six lanes. ;)

And I'd love to see the finished product...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: FrankU on February 13, 2008, 12:07:49 PM
Oh wow! A Frank Way. How did you guess my RL name was Frank? $%Grinno$%

You city mosaics look stunning, and I think you are way better in highwayspaghetti than me.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Simpson on February 13, 2008, 01:36:10 PM
Hello

Simpathic you use RHW very well
;D

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: nerdly_dood on February 17, 2008, 07:44:10 PM
Not bad at all!

XD highweay spaghetti... ??? :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: j-dub on February 18, 2008, 06:45:55 PM
Can't wait to see the new highway driven on, no matter how wide you make it, it all gets jammed up in the end, with continuous developement-based on reality. Tarkus, I couldn't help but notice how you as well, convert your roads to streets right before other roads for the stop sign. Can't wait to see a new turn out for that and the rest of us.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: SusanMarie1956 on February 21, 2008, 04:10:10 PM
I must say that after reading your MD for the whole day during the quiet times at work, I'm impressed and inspired. Maybe one day, I'll be brave enough to post things for all to see. If there was a saluting emoticon, I would present it proudly in your direction.

-SusanMarie
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on February 24, 2008, 07:38:46 PM
Love those updates of Tarkusian Cities, Alex. Keep up the Great work. &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 24-2/12/2008--Old Highway Meets New, Part 2)
Post by: BigSlark on February 24, 2008, 09:10:18 PM
Well done, Alex. I wish REAL DOT's would realign older freeways more often, its much needed in many different places of the United States.

Keep up the great MD'ing, I'm still not sure how you work on NWM, this MD, AND are a grad student...

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Road Corridor, Pt. 1)
Post by: Tarkus on February 29, 2008, 11:27:24 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with a little update here.  Yet another realignment project needed to allow the new Bob Dylan Freeway alignment through. ;D

The last update saw Caldera Lane getting a new overpass, and a temporary alignment of Highway 61 being built, to connect the new segment with a part of the old one which will eventually be removed.

The last section that needs to be completed as part of realignment Phase I in Angstrom involves the area around Milpont and Gaffner Roads.  Both are important arterials in the South Argentum/Angstrom area, providing connections between the two cities and the surrounding agricultural land.

Here is the old alignment and the old Angstrom interchange which connected Highway 61 up to Gaffner Road, Milpont Road and Cubit Lane, which was built well before I had even conceived of the MIS (aside from the Avenue/RHW overpass, this interchange was more or less untouched for almost two years).  Just about every road in this picture is going to be shifted every which way several times over the course of future updates.  Cubit Lane will even be partially reconstructed as a freeway (tentatively proposed to be Highway 220).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-1.jpg)

This is Milpont Road a little bit north of the old interchange, with the new freeway alignment marked.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-2.jpg)

Here's an up close pic on what we'll be looking at this update--building a new overpass for Milpont Road the new freeway alignment. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-3.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-4.jpg)

The overpass seemingly complete . . .

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-5.jpg)

Blasting begins just to the west of the new Milpont overpass, to make way for the new freeway.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-6.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u25-8.jpg)

And then something completely different . . . a new region that I hope to incorporate in here. ;)

[img]http://(missing image: greenery.jpg - looking to restore)[/img]

I'll be back with replies and another update in a while. 

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: Pat on February 29, 2008, 11:51:39 PM
in awhile you mean like a few days or hours lol.... Alex simply wonderful stuff here!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on February 29, 2008, 11:54:43 PM
Heh, more blasting. It'd be hilarious if an "engineering mistake" was made, and a very steep slope was made...


Would've been nice to see the elevated RHW in action (unfortunately that'll have to wait a while, eh?) on that overpass.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: quackmofro on February 29, 2008, 11:59:00 PM
Man, it's like complete overhaul of the current highway system. The way things are shaping up is really cool. I bet the farmers are irked that the new alignment is running through their fields  :D, but nothing must stand in the way of progress.  :thumbsup:

I can't wait to see what you'll be doing with the other region. Perhaps showcase some more terrain mods?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: sebes on March 01, 2008, 02:11:40 AM
Oh cool - this intersections is going to make sooo much more sense than the previous one. I never realized before, but also that intersections that is going to be obsolete now (BDF/Gaffner/Millpoint/Cubit) was probably designed by the same sloshed architect as the former Barnaby Drive/Caldera Lane (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg65237;topicseen#msg65237) intersection...  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: Earth quake on March 01, 2008, 02:16:25 AM
Excellent. &apls
It's really realistic, good work. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: bat on March 01, 2008, 02:48:44 AM
Another wonderful update there, Tarkus! And looking forward to the next update...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: Jmouse on March 01, 2008, 03:09:36 AM
Awesomeness! :thumbsup: Following a trail of question marks instead bread crumbs at the moment, but trying to keep up with the DOT just the same!

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: EDGE4194 on March 01, 2008, 06:44:55 AM
Alex- thanks for the update. I'd agree that crazy interchange is overdue for reconstruction  :D Nice job on the river btw.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: CasperVg on March 01, 2008, 08:18:59 AM
Looking great, nice use of construction pics!  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: Filasimo on March 01, 2008, 09:43:14 PM
another great update alex, im curious when you are going to tease us with unreleased stuff you are withholding from the team for us to test  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: thundercrack83 on March 01, 2008, 10:05:29 PM
Hi, Alex!

You've definitely got some more highway goodness here! And the farms are looking pretty good, too! Keep up the good work, my friend, and I'll be back to see what you've got for us next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: figui on March 02, 2008, 09:27:27 AM
great update :thumbsup:

Quote from: Filasimo on March 01, 2008, 09:43:14 PM
(...) im curious when you are going to tease us with unreleased stuff (...)
one of many reasons i always look for updates here  :P
continue teasing us!!

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt.
Post by: MandelSoft on March 04, 2008, 07:02:02 AM
Nice usage of the RHW and construction fillers! Well done :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25-2/29/2008--Milpont/Gaffner Corridor Project, Pt. 1)
Post by: Ennedi on March 05, 2008, 05:41:26 AM
Hello Alex,

I see your roadworks are really huge!
The suburban area rounded by noise protection walls looks very nice, farmfields look good too!  :thumbsup:
I am very curious how will look all this transit system when it will be finished, but I'm sure it will be fully functional - looking at your previous updates I can say everything is very well thought  :)

And... I see you have the new ambitious plan - Invermere Valley is a great region, but you will have a lot of work with it  ;D

Adam
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5-3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on March 18, 2008, 12:25:16 PM
A proper update will be coming later this week, but in the meantime, to hold you over, and show that I'm still alive, here's a teaser pic.  With 2 new transit-related mods.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg359.imageshack.us%2Fimg359%2F4700%2Fu255io6.jpg&hash=920a6ffaa5da94f146c78e2065ffe148f635048c)

Construction will continue with Update 26--we'll be revisiting Wakeman.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Pat on March 18, 2008, 01:48:40 PM
Alex you tease and hmm I wonder what the 2 items are lol... I see one visible one is the Speed Limit sign and the other I bet would be the TLA?



NB:   After studying this pic after a few days Ive noticed its your custom terrain you are using and Im still sticking with the speed limit sign as the other - pat
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Jonathan on March 18, 2008, 01:54:56 PM
I thought the surprises were the cars, on what I guess is the SAM car parking lots? But I couldn't work out the 2nd one. But now Pat points out the speed limit sign, I think that that would be the 2nd surprise, Alex?#

Looking forward to more,

Jonathan.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Jmouse on March 18, 2008, 03:48:29 PM
Glad to hear an update is on the way! Let's see now, yes, that transit map is still rolled up on the desktop.

Until next update...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: JoeST on March 19, 2008, 12:15:43 AM
I cant wait for the next update, its great

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: bat on March 19, 2008, 06:04:54 AM
Yes, great teaser there! Also looking forward to the next update... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on March 20, 2008, 06:19:24 PM
Hey Tarkus, Love that teaser also. Is that the new avenue with the functional middle lane for turning you have there? Just Curious.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: quackmofro on March 20, 2008, 11:43:54 PM
Ooooh. More TLA action. And road signs that you plop on the roads? I like it!

This is one of my favorite MDs to follow because I consider myself not quite a roadgeek, perhaps a road junkie.  &smrt This sort of highway detailing fascinates me. It almost makes me wish I would've studied civil engineering instead of chemical engineering.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: mightygoose on March 21, 2008, 04:27:39 AM
TLA and working SAM beautiful....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: thundercrack83 on March 21, 2008, 11:38:37 AM
A fantastic teaser, Alex! I can't wait for the update, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: bakerton on March 30, 2008, 07:31:39 PM
Not bad teaser Tarkus. Lately, I have been lurking, but I like. I have also started working on the same region map and I love the map, but yours is better. Keep it coming. JKB &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 25.5--3/18/2008--Teaser with 2 New Mods . . .)
Post by: Simpson on March 31, 2008, 03:49:47 AM
It's very very good but with more terraforming it's can be really better
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: Tarkus on April 06, 2008, 04:28:14 PM
I'm finally back with more Tarkusian Cities.  Today is actually the 1-year anniversary of my first MD, Argentum, which was more or less revived as part of this MD.  However, ironically, this update focuses entirely on Wakeman, which is hundreds of miles from Argentum.  (I do actually consider these two regions to be part of the same "state" or "province". ;))  I've also noticed that this MD is now over 10,000 views, so thanks to everyone who has posted, as well as all of the lurkers.   :)

Pat:  You got it right on the first guess!  It is indeed the TLA and the Speed Sign.  The Speed Signs are actually a little project I haven't publicly revealed yet, called the "Signage Piece Mod", or SPM for short.  (Yes, yet another acronym to keep track of. :D)  Keep an eye on the NAM Creations board, as there will probably be an official "announcement" with more details soon. ;)  Edit:  See here (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=4326.0). ;)

And you're right on the terrain as well, so I guess that's a third one--I am using my new Wasco Terrain Mod here as well. ;)

Jonathan (Warrior):  That's a good guess about the SAM Parking Lots.  Actually, the parking lots are attached to one of SimGoober's shopping centers, shown back in Update 8.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg360.imageshack.us%2Fimg360%2F6451%2Fu822ndwakeman3yq2.jpg&hash=780d8378b4ef3e2c77d4c27bf903f2d659b6293c)

But that is a fantastic idea--I think it could potentially be a nice addition to the SAM, and I've been in a T21 mood lately, so maybe . . . ;)

Joan (Jmouse):  Sorry it took so long!  Hopefully, you still have your map ready, though. :)

Joe (star.torturer):  Thanks, I'm glad you liked it!

bat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the teaser!

Steven (Starmanw402007):  Thanks, and that is indeed the TLA-5 there. There's more where that came from. ;)

quackmofro:  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm glad I've been able to help fulfill your road cravings.  :D  Chemical engineering is good stuff, too--I almost ended up being a chemistry major myself. 

mightygoose:  Thanks, glad you liked the TLA usage, though there actually wasn't any SAM there. :D

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the teaser, and I'm finally back with a long overdue update.

bakerton:  Thanks!  I'd be curious to see what you've done with the region as well.  I've always found it interesting to see how different people approach the same region.

Simpson:  Thanks for the compliments, and rest assured, there will be some more terraforming in future updates. :)

Now, onto Update 26.

In response to increasing traffic on 22nd Avenue on the west side of town, the City of Wakeman's public works department has decided to widen 22nd from 2 lanes, to 3 lanes (2 with 1 center turn lane), in order to improve access to the many retailers.

Here is the intersection of Gilmour Parkway with 22nd Avenue and Kaye Drive, looking south. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-1.jpg)

Kaye Drive was temporarily closed as the curves on it will need to be realigned and widened as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-2.jpg)

22nd is regraded near the Rabin Drive intersection.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-3.jpg)

The completed 3-lane segment 22nd Avenue at this same location.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-4.jpg)

The completed Gilmour Parkway intersection.  (Traffic signals were backordered. :D)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-6.jpg)

Kaye Drive was re-opened with a temporarily alignment.  As 22nd/Kaye is an important north-south connector through Wakeman, city engineers determined that this interim fix was necessary to prevent 11th Avenue from clogging up.  This is just north of Gilmour, and north of the bridge over the inlet.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-7.jpg)

The alignment temporarily narrows down at the south end, where 22nd ends at Wakeman Boulevard (Highway 24).  It will be widened to at least 3 lanes as part of the second phase of the project, which will extend 22nd south to Latimer Road.  (A 5-lane option has also been proposed in the immediate vicinity of the Wakeman Boulevard intersection).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-5.jpg)

Wakeman Public Works, in association with the DOT, has also begun work on another project, which you'll be seeing in the next update.  This project will widen Wakeman Boulevard/Highway 24 from 2 lanes to 5 lanes between 6th and 22nd.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u26-8.jpg)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: Pat on April 06, 2008, 04:37:16 PM
hehehe lol I cant belive i hit it on the nose here lol.....  I guess I do pay more intention then i give myself credit or just that good lol.....  I do love that SLR though!!! Sweet update here Alex and we'll see you soon....

btw why not call it smp = sign mod project J/k...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: mightygoose on April 06, 2008, 04:52:52 PM
looks great the TLA-3 is looking brilliant... :P congrats on the 10k views lets hope the next 10k are just as quick, oh and nice use of the SAM for construction...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: Haljackey on April 06, 2008, 05:06:39 PM
Quote from: mightygoose on April 06, 2008, 04:52:52 PM
looks great the TLA-3 is looking brilliant... :P congrats on the 10k views.

I second this.  Excellent work on the TLA and this MD!  There is road construction everywhere!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: thundercrack83 on April 06, 2008, 07:23:14 PM
Hello, there, Alex!

Things are looking great around here, as usual, my friend! Seeing all those NAM pieces working in the game makes me feel good inside! I'll be looking forward to seeing more!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: BigSlark on April 06, 2008, 09:12:07 PM
Great feature of the TLA-3, Alex. I'm itching to play with it...

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: figui on April 06, 2008, 09:40:26 PM
it's more than great to see construction again ;)
btw, that spm sounds great :thumbsup:

mauricio.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: Jmouse on April 07, 2008, 01:21:56 AM
Glad to see you back with a full construction crew in tow, Alex! Interesting developments to follow and sort out. And don't worry about the map - it was a little dusty but still good as new!  ;)

Until next time...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: bat on April 07, 2008, 05:39:20 AM
Welcome to page 19!

Great work there with the TLA-3! And also congrats on more than 10000 views!!!
Looking forward to a new update... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: EDGE4194 on April 08, 2008, 04:51:16 PM
Nice updates Alex! The TLA-3 looks awesome  :thumbsup:, and am looking forward to seeing more of the SPM
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: sebes on April 10, 2008, 12:49:52 PM
Alex, I am glad to see you updating again. This MD is totally worth all views that it's getting!

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 26--4/6/2008--Just Like 22nd Street--er, Avenue)
Post by: bakerton on April 10, 2008, 03:11:49 PM
Tarkus, just take a look at my CJ over at Simtropolis (Brown County, Iowa USA) this weekend (4/12 and 4/13) and you will see how I have done it. Anyway, TLA-3 and all the construction looks great and can't wait for TLA serise to be released sometime in the future. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Tarkus on April 11, 2008, 06:49:36 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back yet again, to continue showing some of the road projects around Wakeman.  Today we'll be looking at the Wakeman Boulevard project, a collaboration between the City of Wakeman and TDOT.

Pat:  Congrats again on finding the stuff last time, though that's actually a TLA-3 and not an SLR that was shown in this update. ;)  Though the SLR (or ARD-3, as I am now calling it; ARD=Asymmetrical Road) will be packaged in with the TLAs when they get released to the public . . . whenever that will be. ::)  Thanks for stopping by! :)

mightygoose: Thanks, I'm glad you like the TLA-3, and the SAM dirt road usage--I've found SAM v2 to be a major lifesaver in making these construction scenes. And thanks for congratulating me on the view count as well! 

Haljackey:  Thanks for the compliments!  And that road construction won't be letting up any time soon.   :D  There's always something I find to tear down/improve.  We've got a saying here in Oregon that (at least here in the western part of the state) that there's only two seasons--rainy season and road construction season.  And since it doesn't rain in SC4 (unless you're using Gizmo's weather mod), well . . .   ()stsfd()

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Glad to hear it's to your liking, thanks!  It makes me feel good inside to see this stuff working, and I know I'll reallyfeel better once I finally get it released. :D

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks, and I hope you enjoy this feature on the TLA-5!  Hopefully, you'll get to play with it sooner rather than later (it's near an initial Alpha for internal testing, once I finally get around to adjusting a couple paths).

Mauricio (figui):  Thanks, it feels good to get the construction projects going again.  There's a bit of a backlog right now. :D  And I'm glad you like the SPM--there will be more where that came from soon. ;)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks!  And I'm glad to hear your map is still in good shape.  Hopefully, I'll have some additions to it soon. ;)

EDGE4194:  Thanks for the compliments on the TLA-3, and I'm looking forward to getting the SPM expanded a little more myself. :) 

sebes:  Thanks, I'm happy to get this MD back in the swing of things, and I'm flattered to hear you think it's deserving of the view count. :)

bakerton:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the TLA-3 and the construction, and I will definitely check out Brown County [linkie] (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=36&threadid=92825&enterthread=y) this weekend--looking forward to seeing what you've come up with. :)

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)
Wakeman Boulevard Project

This project will widen Wakeman Boulevard (Highway 24) from 2 to 5 lanes (4 with center turn lane) between South 6th Avenue and South 22nd Avenue in the Wakeman City Limits.  This section of roadway is the busiest in the area, averaging 54,000 trips per day.1

(Here's another link to the current Wakeman map, for your convenience: )
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/ag-map-34-wakeman-withconstsite.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/07/ag-map-34-wakeman-withconstsite.png)

This was the existing segment Wakeman Boulevard, between the intersections with South 11th and 17th Avenues.  You can see the Right-of-Way is already plowed under in preparation.  (Looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-1.jpg)

This is the intersection with South 11th Avenue beforehand. (Looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-2.jpg)

And here's the section between 11th and 17th again.  (Looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-3.jpg)


This is the intersection with 19th after construction. (Looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-4.jpg)


This is in front of the Wakeman Crossing shopping center. (Looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-5.jpg)


The intersection with 22nd and Wakeman (looking east).  Note that 22nd is 3 lanes all the way through now, and on the right hand corner, you can get a glimpse of work beginning on the 22nd Avenue extension.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-6.jpg)


The intersection of 11th and Wakeman after construction (looking east). 
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-7.jpg)


Also as part of the project, a small segment of South 11th Avenue near Cascadia Community College was widened from 2 to 5 lanes as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-8.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u27-9.jpg)


Hope you enjoyed this latest construction project! 

-Alex (Tarkus)

1This is figuring that the values shown in-game are hourly figures.  From my own analysis of RL and SC4 data, this appears to be an accurate assumption, but is still mere speculation.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on April 11, 2008, 08:30:16 PM
Very nice work!

I quite like the TLs, it seems the city's expanding quite quickly.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Haljackey on April 11, 2008, 08:36:19 PM
Wow, amazing stuff Tarkus! 

That fourth picture shows a... Road/ave intersection with turn lanes!  Can it be true?  If so, that's freakin amazing! 

Also, excellent work with the shopping centre.  It looks very realistic!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: CasperVg on April 11, 2008, 09:37:22 PM
Looks great. I love the transit-oriented way how you present the whole area.
In the "The intersection of 11th and Wakeman after construction (looking east)"-picture, are the cars that are perpendicular to the avenue's directions, turning to get onto the other lane? Awesome.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: mightygoose on April 11, 2008, 11:03:42 PM
fantastic widening project.. really realistic looking although there are missing turning lanes in the last picture...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: bat on April 12, 2008, 01:12:37 AM
Your Wakeman map is looking fantastic there! And also like your newest construction project!!

Looking forward to the next...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: EDGE4194 on April 12, 2008, 04:46:43 PM
  :thumbsup: those TLAs look great!  So when are you going to release that terrain mod of yours?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Pat on April 12, 2008, 05:02:33 PM
Hey Alex fantastic update other then the 2 broken pics I see darn my luck lol... Pics 1 & 2 are not working but other then that wow!!! Hey where did you come up with the name Wakeman anyways???
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: bakerton on April 14, 2008, 08:10:24 AM
Nice construction there Tarkus. Wakeman is a nice looking city to live in minus all the construction going around. Any mass transit? Keep the work up and great job sofar. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: superhands on April 14, 2008, 08:21:20 AM
nice construction lots tarkus ???
lol great work :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: quackmofro on April 14, 2008, 07:18:46 PM
Nice update, Alex. The TLA looks stunning, indeed. One question that I've been meaning to ask: Where did you find the replacements for the default power lines? The in-game version is just unrealistic, and the ones you use look more like the high-voltage towers I see around.

Honestly, though, your work amazes me. Just another chapter in the TDOT records.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Jmouse on April 14, 2008, 07:29:06 PM
Well, still following the construction/reconstruction projects with great interest, and now looking at the turning lanes in awe. So this is just a note to let you know The Mouse is kind of lurking in the shadows for the moment, but still watching intently! ;)

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: sebes on April 15, 2008, 06:31:07 AM
Wow - what a project again. I wish the mayor and city board of Amsterdam will pay a visit to Wakeman and Argentum, they sure can learn something there.

Lovely pictures and the 5-lane avenues are looking excellent Alex!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: Starmanw402007 on April 19, 2008, 06:17:00 PM
Fantastic job on the widening project Tarkus. I'm looking forward to using those TLA and other projects myself.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: rusummer1 on April 26, 2008, 05:47:06 PM
Great MD, will be looking forward to more and keep up the good work! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 27--4/11/2008--Wakeman Blvd Gets 5-Laned)
Post by: jplumbley on April 26, 2008, 05:58:59 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on April 11, 2008, 06:49:36 PM

Also as part of the project, a small segment of South 11th Avenue near Cascadia Community College was widened from 2 to 5 lanes as well.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F1165%2Fu278cr5.jpg&hash=dd08c3d025908b5c70036fb98160c76c16e44904)


Plagarism... Using unreleased material that hasnt even made it to Alpha testing yet!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Tarkus on May 18, 2008, 11:02:30 PM
Hi everyone-

After a nearly one month hiatus, Tarkusian Cities is back.  We'll be going back to Wakeman to see yet another construction project, in which South 22nd Avenue will be extended down from Wakeman Boulevard (Highways 24/89) down to Latimer Road, the latter of which is a crucial road south of town which connects up with the South Industrial Area, as well as Camel Point State Park.

But first, replies.

Daniel (Shadow Assassin):  Thanks, I'm glad you like the TLAs!  And Wakeman is indeed experiencing a bit of a population boom now.  You'll hardly recognize it in a few updates.

Haljackey:  Yes, that is indeed a Avenue/Road intersection with Turn Lanes.  Actually, technically, it's a TLA-5/Road intersection.  That'll be a standard feature of that network once I finally unleash it, and I've played around a lot with the Avenue Turning Lanes Plugin, so an actual Avenue/Road intersection with Turn Lanes may not be far off. ;)  Thanks for stopping by! :)

Casper (caspervg):  Thanks!  Being a bit of a roadgeek, I can't help it. :D  And yes, those cars are indeed using the turn lanes on the TLA-5 there.  I might have to figure out the whole video-making thing one of these days so you all can see them in action.

mightygoose:  Thanks for the compliments, and you are indeed right about the missing turn lane--good catch!  The RULs weren't entirely stable yet, so that may be what happened there.

bat:  Thanks, and I hope you enjoy this one. :)

EDGE4194:  Thanks for the compliments on the TLAs, and I have finally released a basic version of the Wasco Terrain Mod on my NHP "Non-Transit" thread [linkie] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=3777.msg146912#msg146912), for anyone who wants to give it a spin.

Pat:  Thanks, and I'm glad to see someone finally asked about the origin of the town's name.  Wakeman is named after Rick Wakeman (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Wakeman), best known for his tenure as the keyboard player in the band Yes (my all-time favorite band).  Just one of dozens of prog references laced throughout this MD. ;)

bakerton:  I'm glad to hear you liked the construction, thanks!  I'd imagine it does get a bit noisy, though.  Wakeman is kind of a hybrid of two RL towns I'm rather fond of, The Dalles, Oregon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Dalles%2C_Oregon) and Ellensburg, Washington (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellensburg%2C_Washington) (home of my alma mater Central Washington University).  As far as mass transit goes, there isn't any.  The city's population is still only a mere 25,000, which, by RL standards, is a bit small for mass transit.  At least here in Oregon, all the towns/metro areas that have mass transit systems have populations of around 100,000+.  And being the harsh critic that I am, I'm not a big fan of any of them, for various reasons. :D

bighead99:  Thanks, and actually, I have to give props to DeeJay of the SFBT for those construction lots I've used in all these updates.  Without them, this MD wouldn't be the same.

quackmofro:  I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the TLA usage, thanks!  As far as the power lines go, I'm using fukuda's High Tension Poles, which are available on the STEX [link] (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=16152). 

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks, I'm flattered you enjoyed the latest update, and hope you enjoy the latest developments here.  I'll have a new map next time, too. :)

sebes:  I got a good laugh out of that comment--thanks!  Perhaps we should convince them to join the Forums.  ;D  I'm sure they'd probably learn some good stuff from Rhenen, too.  I think the City of Eugene, Oregon could use it, too.  And I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the TLAs. :)

Starmanw402007:  Thanks, and I'm looking forward to letting you and everyone else "have at it" with the TLAs, hopefully sooner than later.

rusummer1:  Thanks, I hope you enjoyed this latest update!

Jason (jplumbley):  ROFL . . . yes, I did indeed sneak the new Road Turning Lanes (RTL) Plugin into Wakeman, so I could still have turn lanes with the TLAs.  But to be fair, I did path and T21 them myself. ;D

______________________________________________________________

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg182.imageshack.us%2Fimg182%2F2742%2Fcityofwakemanlogoud7.jpg&hash=4fe84601dc7398d03678d90adc7b34bd5f89366f)

South 22nd Avenue Extension: Wakeman to Latimer

This project will extend South 22nd Avenue from South Wakeman Boulevard, south to South Latimer Road.  The new roadway will consist of 3 travel lanes, one of which will be a center left turn lane, with a 35mph (60 km/h) speed limit.  While some of the area that the proposed extension will run through is currently in unincorporated Palmer County, it will be annexed into the Wakeman City Limits with the completion of the project.

The existing intersection of 22nd and Wakeman, looking east (an all-too familiar site now :D).  Work has begun on grading the path the road will take.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-1.jpg)

The south end of the extension at Latimer Road, which was widened in part to 3 travel lanes in preparation for the new intersection. (looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-2.jpg)

22nd and Wakeman with the extension now in place. (looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-3.jpg)

The new intersection of 22nd and Latimer (looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-4.jpg)

In addition to the new roadway, a new park is being constructed at the corner of 22nd and Wakeman, which will connect to a pedestrian path that will parallel the entire length of the new extension. (looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-5.jpg)

A part of the completed pedestrian path.  A sound wall has also been placed on the east side of 22nd, as Phase One of a new subdivision, Anderson Village, will be going in here.  (looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-6.jpg)

Jon Anderson Park completed. (looking east, yet again :D)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-7.jpg)

The preliminary work on the new subdivision (still looking east)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-8.jpg)

The streets are paved in preparation for construction on the home sites.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-9.jpg)

Looking at the new intersection of 22nd and Horn Street, at the northwest corner of the subdivision, with some of the new houses complete.  Pranksters have already made this area a target, liberally distributing bathroom tissue on the trees along 21st Avenue.  Not sure which brand they're using.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u28-10.jpg)

Hope you enjoyed this latest update.  I'll be back with more construction next time.  No buildings were harmed in the making of this update (amazingly). Bad for my reputation, I know.  :D

-Alex (Tarkus)

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Heblem on May 18, 2008, 11:17:23 PM
what I like about this MD is the road project and construction developments, really interesting how you do it... what I liked most was the uses of SAM for construction stages.

Nice work, can't wait to use TLA aswell
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Alfred.Jones on May 18, 2008, 11:47:04 PM
I think you should have planned it out a bit more before you started development :D

Nice work Tarkus :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Pat on May 19, 2008, 08:50:50 AM
Sweet Alex I wonder what band that could be lol.... Anyways you are wanting to know how to make a movie from the game its rather simply... 

bring up the comand box, with ctrl x of course...

Type in Record or Recorder I cant remember off the top of my head but its either of them and I think it might be listed in Davids [dedgrens] keyboard shortcut list for it.... 

Now you would want to adjust the box size just by clicking and dragging on the outline to the desired size and hit record...

After done recording you will need to hit stop and then save, it will save to RecordedAnimations folder in the sc4 folder...

Now you will need to open up Windows Movie Maker and go from there to import the pics from RecoredAnimations and then when you get ready to put the pics by highlighted them and get ready to drag into the timeline..

before putting the pics into the timeline make sure you adjust the time by going tools/option/advanced then adjust pic duration to 1 sec and also adjust transition duration to 1 sec...

final step is save to make a movie and upload to say youtube and post here your video with this type of code

[flash=800,600]http://www.youtube.com/v/YvKVSAngGIM[/flash]

to get that link just cut out of the code that its generated by youtube and presto you got a video of the traffic  ;)  any other questions just ask me and I will be more then happier to help out....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: bat on May 19, 2008, 08:51:42 AM
Fantastic work there on that update! And great pictures of the constructions! Looking forward to more of them! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Haljackey on May 19, 2008, 09:04:54 AM
Ah, a nice update once again!

That looks like Beautiful subdivision!  Also, I like your green space!  They seem to go hand-in-hand in your last picture.  Keep it up!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: j-dub on May 19, 2008, 09:22:04 AM
Alex I think Video diaries would be awesome too, if the windows movie maker way is too long, there is a program called Fraps that records any game, lots of people have made videos of this particular game using that on Youtube. The trial version of Fraps will allow a decent amount of time to record footage from this game, and you can record again and again. It also takes in any sound from the game as well, good for traffic noise. It would be interesting to see the new transit items getting constructed that way.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: JoeST on May 19, 2008, 09:33:55 AM
Hey Tarkus, Absolutly fantastic showcase of works here. you always astound me

especialy the toilet paper... LOL

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Jmouse on May 19, 2008, 09:37:41 AM
Well now, Alex, this update actually made sense to me - does that mean one of us is slipping! :P Seriously, I really like the way you've shown the mechanics involved in the 22nd Ave. extension and the addition of a new subdivision. All very true-to-life!

Until the next project...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: thundercrack83 on May 19, 2008, 12:07:30 PM
Extraordinary work, Alex!

I absolutely love your use of the dirt SAM roads as paths for construction, then the paved ones to show the difference it's very clever!

The construction sites look great, too, and I they look even better when the development is finished!

Keep up the great work here, my friend! You're doing a fabulous job, as always. I'll be back to see your next update!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: BigSlark on May 19, 2008, 12:12:09 PM
Extremely realistic update, Alex. I love how you plan out neighborhoods and highways before you construct them, I think that's where the authenticity comes in.

And as always I appreciate being teased with new transit toys!  :D

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: nerdly_dood on May 19, 2008, 12:50:59 PM
I like it a lot!

Also I agree with BigSlark about, well, all of his post.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: bakerton on May 19, 2008, 03:13:25 PM
Alex, what a wonderful job Wakeman and area looks. The park and subdivision looks great. Yeah, 25,000 for population seems small, but you will be suprise on how well it works with that population. Anyway, looking forward to more in the future. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: EDGE4194 on May 19, 2008, 07:15:19 PM
Excellent update Alex  :thumbsup: I love the name of the park- how did you ever think of it? :D Great use of the asphalt SAM streets. I have never been quite sure where to use them, and must say they are perfect in a brand new subdivision.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Quesh on May 21, 2008, 03:56:28 PM
I like to see the clue of construction a district as you do, it's really great, a great job  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: kassarc16 on May 21, 2008, 07:29:56 PM
Looking great Tarkus! I get jealous every time I see those TLAs! Can't wait for the NWM tree to bear fruit!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Ryan B. on May 21, 2008, 09:28:32 PM
Wow, Alex!  That's fantastic work - it's so realistic!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: warszawa on May 22, 2008, 02:48:33 PM
Hey Alex! That road mod looks really effective and realistic. I can't wait to see the development start in that area where the construction lots are. Keep up the brilliant work and see you soon.

Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: threestooges on May 22, 2008, 04:40:49 PM
I am always amazed (though I shouldn't be by now, you do it so consistently) at how you keep expanding the possibilities of the game and how good it looks. The suburbs turned out well, and their development pics look good too. As other have already said, the SAM was a nice touch there. I haven't been keeping up with the turning lane threads as much as I probably should but I just wanted to comment on that fourth pic with the double set of turning lanes. It's a small detail, but really a nice touch. Excellent work, all of it.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: rusummer1 on May 24, 2008, 05:27:28 PM
Excellent. Look forward to more. Great Planning!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: krbe on May 24, 2008, 05:51:35 PM
Some nice planning there--isn't often we can take part in that process!  $%Grinno$% Also, videos would be a nice additions, as long as you're not plastering them with some heavy metal soundtrack :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Godzillaman on May 24, 2008, 06:55:31 PM
Typical suburbs, great job on them!;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: sebes on May 25, 2008, 05:17:19 AM
I am shocked. Why? To see a regular SC4 street in the 2nd picture, construction streets in the new subdivision, and asfalt streets in the same area in the next picture. I am really puzzled how you do that....
Is there a mod where you can just pick the way you want your streets to look like???
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: j-dub on May 26, 2008, 08:39:11 AM
:o The mod that allows you to have different street variations at the same time, is the SAM (street addon mod) Version 4 is still in the works, but the sets you see should be in Version 3, at the LEX.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 28--5/18/2008--Wakeman: 22nd Ave Extension)
Post by: Ennedi on May 26, 2008, 02:18:18 PM
These new roads look fantastic Alex!  &apls I have a strange feeling that NAM is still at the early stage of it's development  :D

I love your construction sites, but I must say new network looks excellent in more developed areas, as on your last picture, especially with SAM streets  :thumbsup:
Maybe any map actualization in the near future, I'm curious how much part of projected civil works are done yet?  ;)

PS. Please remove some old messages from your inbox, it is full and I'd like to send you a PM  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Tarkus on June 17, 2008, 10:40:58 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back yet again, finally.  And as hard as it is to believe, Tarkusian Cities is officially one year old.  I'll be doing a brief retrospective and showing a map for the first time in awhile, but first, replies:

Heblem:  Thanks, the construction stuff can be kinda fun to do!  I find it helps out with the planning process quite a bit, actually.  And the SAM Dirt Streets have really proven their worth.  As well as the Asphalt set you did, which is probably the SAM set I use the most. :)  And I'm looking forward to one of these days getting the TLAs out there . . .

Alfred.Jones:  LOL, thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!

Pat:  Thanks for the very helpful tips on movie making, I never would have thought of that method! :thumbsup:  I had considered doing an Animated GIF, but that sounds far, far easier.  Look for something soon on that front . . . ;)

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction!

Haljackey:  Thanks for the compliments on the subdivision and the park!  I've always found that kind of stuff is fun to build.

j-dub:  Thanks for the movie-making tips as well--I really appreciate it! :)  I do have Fraps on my HD, but haven't messed around with it much yet.  And when I do take the plunge, I'll definitely be showing some construction. ;)

Joe (star.torturer):  Hehe . . . someone caught the little TP-ing bit.  I've always found that crime animation rather amusing--one of the things Maxis did right. :D  And thanks for the kind words!

Joan (Jmouse):  I'm very glad to hear this last update made sense clicked--thanks!  I'll finally be showing the latest map of Wakeman in this update here. 

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm glad to see someone caught my little SAM trick there!  I'm always trying to find ways to further the realism on the construction, and I kind of came across that method by accident.  I can't say enough great things about the SAM.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks!  I can't help the planning thing--it's kind of an unavoidable instinct for me.  The more I play SC4, the more so it becomes.  And I greatly enjoy teasing, as you can probably imagine.  :D 

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the kind words!

Jon (bakerton):  I'm now getting kind of curious about trying something like that . . .  ;)  Hope you enjoy this latest update!

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, and I'm glad you enjoyed the asphalt SAM usage and that you caught the park name reference. :D  You'll probably catch some more references on the map for that new subdivision that adjoins it. 

Quesh:  I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the construction projects--thanks!  There will be plenty more where those came from. ;)

kassarc16:  Thanks!  One of these days . . . have to wait for the transit network fruit to be ripe enough. They're still a little too green to pick right now . . . ;)

Ryan (burgsabre87):  Thanks, I appreciate it!

Alex (warszawa) :  Thanks, I'm glad you like the road mod, and I'll be showing a little teaser of that new development in this update here. :)

Matt (threestooges):  Thanks for the all-too-kind words, my friend!  I've always been rather fond of building suburbs, and I've been finding it's been getting easier for me now that I've completely gone to custom content for residential stuff. 

rusummer1:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

krbe:  Thanks, I appreciate the kind words on the planning part of things--I've always enjoyed that side of things.  And don't worry, I won't be plastering the videos with heavy metal. :D 

And thanks for making the 400th comment in this MD!  As with all the other 100-posters, you'll be getting a road somewhere in one of these regions named after you, which I'll show in Update 30. ;D

Godzillaman:  That was exactly what I was shooting for, so thanks for the compliment!

sebes:  That's the SAM mod, by my good friend and NAM colleague Jason (jplumbley).  I highly recommend it. :thumbsup:  If you haven't picked it up yet, here's the link (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1594). 

(Thanks for j-dub for pointing it out as well. :))

Adam (Ennedi):  Thanks for the kind feedback on the new networks and the construction sites, I really appreciate it!  There is quite a lot in early development stages right now, actually . . . (cough) RHW Version 21 (cough). :D

As far as how much of the public works projects are completed, well, that's a good question.  As many times as I've torn up and rebuilt Argentum, I'd have to say that my cities are constantly in "beta", just like the NAM. :D  There's some pretty big projects coming up, too--you might catch a glimpse of one or two in this update. ;)

_____________________________________________________

Well, this 1st Anniversary Update is going to be a bit brief . . . but I hope you enjoy it.  I figured I'd show before and after photos of Argentum and Wakeman, from when I started showing them in this MD (and its predecessor), compared to how they look now.

Here's what Wakeman looked like back in Update 1, on July 1st, 2007.  (both pics looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg183.imageshack.us%2Fimg183%2F9387%2Fu11wakemanoverviewmh3.jpg&hash=459e5c0fd6b2c663c22ac282ca87d37f249cefd8)

And here it is now.  The subdivision I showed last time is more or less in place now (though it will get expanded further), as well as a couple of other things . . . the infamous "mystery highway" project is up in the upper left corner.  According to TDOT officials, it's been "delayed (apparently, they need to get a bit more funding before they go through with it.) ;)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u29-4.jpg)

And side-by-side map comparison:

June 17, 2007
[URL=http://img77.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakemantn8.png][IMG]http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/8998/agmap34wakemantn8.th.png[/img][/URL]

June 17, 2008
[URL=http://img171.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakeman05012008uj7.png][IMG]http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/6526/agmap34wakeman05012008uj7.th.png[/img][/URL]

(as you can see, I finally figured out how to show Railroads better.)

And now for Argentum.  I'm actually going to show a few pics from Argentum from before I ever really showed it publicly--back when I barely had any custom content--just a few SG, kevdan and Bobbo BATs.  These are like really embarassing baby photos, so you may want to avert your eyes, unless you're morbidly curious . . . these pics date all the way back to February 2006.  I had just discovered the NAM and didn't even know what a RUL file was. 

This is looking east.  I had actually made this pic for reference purposes for making highway signs--anyone remember Arthur (artforce1) and his old GHSDP (Generic Highway Sign Development Project)?  That was new stuff back then.  It was one of the things that drew me into the SC4 community some 2 1/2 years ago.  All the signs I made got quickly outdated, though, as I was constantly ripping everything up.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u29-2.jpg)

This was the old Airport interchange with old Highway 204 (which no longer exists) running underneath it.  I actually showed this pic in the old "Show Us Your Most Creative Transportation Network" thread over at ST back then.  Creative, certainly.  But in the same way the old Caldera Lane/Barnaby Drive interchange was "creative".  Talk about drunken engineers . . .  yikes! 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u29-3.jpg)

Here's what it looked like during my old Argentum MD, a little over a year ago (May 1, 2007, to be precise), looking west.  I was still using (*gasp*) Maxis Highways (but in the process of tearing them out), and no Slope Mod.  The old Caldera Lane bridge had been torn out, as seen in the upper left corner.

[img]http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/3756/argentumoverviewyu9.jpg[/img]

And here it is now, also looking west.  There are some things which will appear somewhat familiar, but quite a lot has changed.  And quite a lot is under construction.  You'll probably notice that sunken highway area has widened quite a bit, too.  ;)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u29-1.jpg)

So that does it for this little trip down Memory Lane . . . which is still under construction. :D  (I realize that was just an awful joke, but I couldn't resist.)  Hope you enjoyed it.

And most of all, thank you for all of your support and comments over this past year.  I really, really appreciate that.  And that's still an understatement. ;)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on June 17, 2008, 10:58:39 PM
I finally caught up with this, so I'll be the first comment for the 1 year anniversary.  &apls

I love your transportation creativity, which is what keeps bringing me back, and especially how you plan out your highways.
I can tell you love superhighways.
Were you ever by any chance a city planner or civil engineer?

These updates (especially the last one) really make me itch to get my hands on the NWM though...

Great work, Tarkus! (Is it OK to call you Alex? I've seen it tossed around before)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: JoeST on June 18, 2008, 12:34:05 AM
Alex: WOOOOOOOOOOOO....OOOOOOOO

and very well done on the joke LOL: I was humoured ;)

OMNOMNOMNOM ;)

BTW: a very well done on getting the admin job :) you are the right guy for it

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Alfred.Jones on June 18, 2008, 12:46:42 AM
It is always great to see before and after pictures of cities. You can see so much change (including your new terrain mod) in the pictures.

Excellent update, capped off by an... excellent?? joke :P

AJ :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: MandelSoft on June 18, 2008, 04:02:08 AM
Digging up memories... What a difference between old and new.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: bat on June 18, 2008, 10:58:24 AM
Congrats on the 1st Anniversary of your MD!!!! &apls

And this is a fantastic 1st-Anniversary-Update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Pat on June 18, 2008, 01:18:27 PM
WoW Alex simply stunning there the comparissions from one year does for someone!!! Congrats on a year and here is to anther one at that and as I said in the Offical Thread but I will say it again here to Congrats for your appointment to Admin duties...  I cant wait to see that video and if you need help in production just get ahold of me and I will be glad to help you out!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Heblem on June 18, 2008, 02:11:07 PM
its nice to see you how you keep your old cities and keep em updating with the most recent stuff, of course can-t wait how it turns  :)

congratulations for the anniversary  :thumbsup:

til next time  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Quesh on June 18, 2008, 03:47:25 PM
Very great update  &apls
I like this air-photography  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: EDGE4194 on June 19, 2008, 05:07:50 AM
Alex- Nice retrospective. I like seeing how cities grow and change and I document my cities' histories as well. It is interesting to look back on some of the early pics and see how we were able to improvise. Congrats on the anniversary and here's to another year  &apls .
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: penguin007 on June 19, 2008, 05:59:43 AM
My first visit here I think. Congrats on your 1st anniversary and I cant wait to see more from this showcase of NAM stuff

Keep up the great work

Will
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: bakerton on June 19, 2008, 02:54:22 PM
Oh, how cute, baby pictures. Really, I love to see before and after pictures and I must say, what a great job. I am also glad I made you curious about mass transit. If you do mass transit, it might releave rush hour traffic and congestion no matter the population size. Congrats on 1 year anniversary Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: sebes on June 19, 2008, 03:06:49 PM
And what a year it was...

It's fun looking at these old "baby" picture, realy cute!

As usual, always having an eye on Tarkusian cities... and will continue doing so. If you're interested I can mail some construtions pictures that I took the other day of the A2 project in the Netherlands (the project I linked you before).

Cheers! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 29--6/17/2008--1st Anniversary)
Post by: Jmouse on June 21, 2008, 12:57:37 PM
That's quite a transport network you've established there, Alex. And this time I get two maps instead of just one! I'm going to have to get a bigger storage cabinet.

I, too, enjoy these glimpses in the rear view mirror. In the rush to move forward, sometimes it's easy to forget how much progress has already been made.

Hoping to see much more of the same...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Tarkus on June 24, 2008, 12:55:20 AM
Hi everyone-

Back with a small little update . . . taking a little breather from construction for once to show you a little corner of Argentum, Peninsula City.

First, replies:

deathtopumpkins:  Alright--a first timer!  Thanks for the congratulations and the kind words on the transportation networks, and I hope you enjoyed all the prior updates as well.  To answer your question, I'm actually not an engineer or planner--I have a Masters' Degree in Music Composition.  But I've just always been a big roadgeek as long as I can remember, and I find myself mentally re-engineering RL roads and playing "Monday Morning Quarterback" on local road projects.  By the way, either Alex or Tarkus works.  :)

JoeST:  Hehe . . . I'm glad someone enjoyed my lame joke. :D  And thanks for the congrats on the Admin job.  It's still weird having all these new buttons. :D

Alfred.Jones:  Thanks, I've always enjoyed seeing before and after pics of cities as well.  It's always fascinated me.  And I'm glad there's at least two people who enjoyed my attempt at humor there! :)

Maarten (mrtnrln):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

bat:  Thanks for the congratulations!  Hopefully the first of many years. :)

Pat:  I'm amazed how much those cities have changed as well--it's always fun to look back.  I've been playing the Argentum city tile for almost 600 game years now.  I'm glad you enjoyed the little retrospective there, thanks!

Heblem:  Thanks, I'm rather curious to see how things turn out as well, and I'm quite glad to hear you enjoyed the look back.

Quesh:  I'm really quite pleased to hear you enjoyed the aerial shots--thanks!  I really should start showing more of them.  It's always interesting to see things in different perspectives.

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I really appreciate it!  I had never really anticipated that I'd ever be showing any of those way old Argentum pics, and it was kind of fun finding those by accident in my Albums folder the other day.  I'm still in shock how much my playing style has changed in certain ways--though in other ways, it hasn't changed much at all (namely the heavy-duty transportation focus).

Will (penguin007):  Hey, another first time--thanks for taking the time to comment, and I really appreciate your kind words!  I can't wait to throw in some more new transit mods, too.

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks for the compliments and the congratulations!  Onto year number 2 . . .  :)

sebes:  Thanks for the kind words, and for all your support over the past year.  And I'd love to see more of the A2 project!

Joan (Jmouse):  Well, after this update, you may need to upgrade the cabinet again. :D  One of these days I'm going to get the full Argentum region map done, too.  Thanks for the compliments on the network, and I'm glad you enjoyed the look back.

__________________________________

The locale I'll be focusing on this update is Peninsula City (pop. 3704), which is surrounded by Emerson Lake and situated on the Costa Norte Peninsula, which is about 3 miles due west of downtown Argentum.  Despite its proximity to Argentum, it has a distinct small town feel to it.  This is perhaps due to the fact that Peninsula City has managed to avoid being annexed into Argentum.

First of all, a map of Peninsula City.  Relatively easy to get around.

[URL=http://img181.imageshack.us/my.php?image=peninsulamap06232008ru3.png][IMG]http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/7717/peninsulamap06232008ru3.th.png[/img][/URL]

Here is an overhead shot of Peninsula City, looking west.  The old ferry is still in place at the end of Peninsula Avenue, which runs from northern Argentum and becomes "the main drag" through town.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u30-1.jpg)

Speaking of downtown, here it is (looking south)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u30-4.jpg)

And here is a view of Pinecrest, a lakefront community, looking south at the intersection of 15th Avenue and Penrose Drive.  A fair amount of commercial development has popped up at this intersection, perhaps given its proximity to the future Highway 261/Penrose Drive interchange (which will be over to the east/left, on the Argentum city tile).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u30-3.jpg)

Another shot, at the 15th/Pinecrest roundabout (also looking south), with a glimpse of the lake.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u30-5.jpg)


I'll be back with more next time . . . hopefully with something . . . interesting . . . ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)

Fixed one slight (but glaring to those paying attention) error . . . 15th and Penrose, not 16th.  Thanks, Joan!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Simpson on June 24, 2008, 01:59:09 AM
Hi Tarkus
I'm sorry for never posting here  ;)
It's a VERY good update, your city is superb and so realistic
David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: cape44 on June 24, 2008, 08:35:31 AM
Hi tarkus!

What a wonderful Devloppment here!   &apls  &apls
Can't wait to see of it more!

- Capeside44
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on June 24, 2008, 09:29:33 AM
Music Composition? You should have gone with civil engineering or city planning!  :D And I think we've all mentally re-engineered a road at at least some point!

Wow. That looks like a nice little place to live. Is there a single Maxis building (besides utilities) in that entire town?

BTW, I'm jealous of the third picture...  :(

This was a nice diversion, but I, for one, can't wait to get back to highways...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: threestooges on June 24, 2008, 10:00:21 AM
When someone posts pics like that and then contemplates posting something... interesting... I can only imagine, and eagerly await what's in store. The suburbs continue to impress as does the area in general. I didn't know you had a Masters in Music Composition (congratulations on that) but if you wanted, you could think about joining up with the plalnning division for the city (they'd be lucky to have someone with your eye). At any rate, looking forward to what's next.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: sincitybaby on June 24, 2008, 10:42:19 AM
Hi Tarkus,

I noticed that in your 2nd photo, you have a road T-intersection, are you using the Road Turning Lane plug-in, or is it the new modified one from jplumbey, just curious.

Your'e cities are so realistic, and its amazing how you started out small, and gradually grew it into a bigger city.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: bat on June 24, 2008, 10:44:58 AM
The map is looking very good, the pictures in this wonderful update as well! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Jmouse on June 24, 2008, 11:51:48 AM
Alex, that was a very pleasant trip through Peninsula City, made even better by being able to follow the route on a good map. I wasn't able to find a 16th Avenue/Penrose Drive intersection, but the Pinecrest roundabout was easy to spot.

Overall, you've created a very appealing little community on the peninsula that looks like a nice friendly place to live. As for the roads, you've changed the way I look at transport networks in game. And I've even started looking at real maps as I think about developing a new region. I'll never be a "road geek," but you've helped me be more observant and thoughtful, so I'd say that's a bit of progress!

Later...
Joan

Doing this David (dedgren)-style . . . heh!  You caught me there--late night brain lapse I guess.  Though that road was at one point called 16th when I started building the city, but as I do sometimes when initially numbering streets, I sometimes re-evaluate things when roads are close to the block lines. The actual intersection there is 15th and Penrose.  I've adjusted it accordingly. -Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Heblem on June 24, 2008, 12:32:34 PM
It's interesting Argentum the name, the name becomes from where the silver is located, just of curiosity is your city named by that?

As for Costa Norte Peninsula looks greats, reminds me to somewhere i can't remember, lol

Eblem
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Zaphod on June 24, 2008, 01:31:17 PM
your 22 and you have and had for a while a masters in music  :o so I imagine many people call you a genius right?

that's really cool. Do you have any of your music available online?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: j-dub on June 25, 2008, 08:10:56 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.picvalley.net%2Fu%2F1317%2F2044712964.JPG&hash=756243fe0a891fe763ee2a14afe0c008f330727d)

Hey Alex, look where I am, do any of those exits sound familiar? Oh yeah thats right, this is the hwy you were building. (Or I have invaded your city for real) Thanx to that semi, I bet I'm going to be boxed in all the way past the off ramp. I have been stuck here for 2 hours, traffic is only moving 15mph. This would be funny if it wasn't real, but unfortanetly in real life, traffic jams can't be avoided, it seems.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Haljackey on June 26, 2008, 08:02:11 AM
Wow... I missed two updates??  I should check your MD more often!   ;)

I am liking your development, Alex.  Those asphalt streets really blend in with the surroundings, and its tempting me to try the SAM sometime.
-You also use the NAM curves to a great extent, and I have to say that it looks fantastic!  Very realistic! 

And of course that TLA (or NWM now?) is quite a tease.  I like the gradual transition to road as well.

Anyways, I am looking forward for more!  Keep up the great work!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: bakerton on June 26, 2008, 02:49:17 PM
Looks great Alex. I just love Peninsula City as I love small towns. Will be waiting patiently for the next update. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Earth quake on June 27, 2008, 04:03:24 AM
Great update Tarkus, I like it, go on.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Patricius Maximus on June 27, 2008, 02:52:18 PM
I... I... I see a TLR   :o

Could you show us some more sneak peeks  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: flame1396 on June 27, 2008, 04:02:18 PM
Great work Tarkus, amazing that you can do things like actually play the game when you do so much for the NAM and now administrating this excellent website. Peninsula city is pretty good, has an unfinished feel to it, I'd feel the need to add seawalls or something (though I'm the hardcore-urban-mapfiller-type). The usage of uncommon terrain mods adds to the unique atmosphere you create, definitely due to your unique playing style.
&apls

Note to readers--all off-topic discussion on VMS signs has been removed.  -Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: CasperVg on June 29, 2008, 09:26:08 AM
Been awhile since I last commented here, but I really like the way you develop the various cities  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 01, 2008, 06:18:55 PM
Hello, Alex! Congrats, my friend!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg337.imageshack.us%2Fimg337%2F5028%2Ftarkusiancitiesnt6.png&hash=6e1b305ff231f41cf121b8f426edda762f57b48d)

- The Staff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Jmouse on July 01, 2008, 06:56:21 PM
Congratulations, Alex! I'm sure you'll do a great job in the spotlight this month. You've certainly piqued my interest in transport systems, and maybe one of these days I'll make it to the first level - "Street Geek!" Road, avenue, RHW and all that other upper-level stuff might take a bit longer, but everybody has to start somewhere!

Looking forward to more...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: EDGE4194 on July 01, 2008, 07:32:39 PM
 &apls
congrats alex! your award is well-deserved.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: dedgren on July 01, 2008, 07:56:18 PM
The great comments you get here, Alex, are right up there with your updates- and your (all too few, my friend) updates are right up there with the best of any "brain candy" MDs out there.  It takes the right stuff to sustain a high maintenance (idea and innovation-wise) MD for a year- my guess is that you'll be chalking up year two before you know it.  TC is one of those "place" MDs that really brings the reader into whatever locale you've written into the ongoing story- I know I am only one of many checking back in often to see if you've given us something more to look at.

Congrats, my friend (and congrats as well on your appointment as an admin- hey... it's not all hearts and flowers, but somebody's got to do it) and the best of luck to you during the month ahead.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: bat on July 02, 2008, 01:19:03 AM
Welcome to page 23!!!!


Congrats on your second award, Tarkus! &apls Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: rooker1 on July 02, 2008, 07:17:31 AM
Congratulations, Alex!
It's great to see your MD make it to OSITM for the second time.  &apls

I don't comment in here as often as I would like or should.  Your playing/MD style is a little different than my style and I sometimes find it hard to find something to say.  Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy it very much.  You do have some very interesting ideas to say the least.  Believe when I say I have never missed a single one of your updates.

Let's see what you have in store for us this month.  I'm sure what ever it is, it will be as interesting as any update before it.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on July 02, 2008, 09:01:05 AM
Congratulations on OSITM!

Now we just need another update to go with it... *hint, hint*  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: MandelSoft on July 02, 2008, 11:39:36 PM
^^ What he said ^^

Great, Tarkus! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: Tarkus on July 03, 2008, 11:55:17 PM
Wow--thanks to everyone for the congratulations.  I'm just absolutely thrilled about being back in OSITM for July--thank you to everyone who's supported this MD, and to my fellow staff members for this honor.  I'm just speechless.

I will be back with a larger update shortly, but I thought I'd give you a taste of what is up in Tarkusian Cities.

First, replies:

David (Simpson):  No worries, and thanks for the compliments.  I need to catch up on your MD as well--and congratulations on being in the OSITM category this month as well!  You do fine work.

cape44: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

deathtopumpkins:  Well, I have toyed with going and getting a civil engineering degree later . . . at the very least, this MD has been an outlet for me on that end.  Thanks for the compliments on Peninsula City--there are a few Maxis buildings, but they're not particularly obvious.  I play with the BSC Maxis Blocker, and right now have everything blocked except I-HT.  And I'm sure your thoughts on the third pic are shared by many. :D  There will most assuredly be more highways, too.

Matt (threestooges):  Thank you so much for the kind words! I certainly would have fun being involved with a planning department--probably a little too much fun.  :D   I actually have been trying to relate my field to my roadgeek interests, too--awhile ago, I started writing a large choral/orchestral piece called Signage, which uses texts from traffic signs--reminds me I need to get back to it. 

I hope what I have this time is indeed interesting, and I'm glad you enjoyed the suburbs!

sincitybaby:  Yes, I am indeed using jplumbley's Turning Lane Mod.  I have an Alpha build of it.  And I'm glad to hear you've been enjoying seeing things develop here--thanks!

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the map and pics!

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the trip through Peninsula City, and I'm glad the map was helpful.  And I'm just thrilled that I've been able to illuminate the transportation end of things--it's been my pleasure.    You caught my little mistake, too :D . . . and for that, you will be "getting on the map".  You may be a roadgeek sooner than you think . . . :)

Eblem (Heblem):  Well, you're very close on the origins of the name.  I am a bit of a chemistry-geek as well, and I have had a tendency to name my cities after the Latin names of the elements.  Argentum's eastern suburb is called Cuprum (copper).  And thanks for the compliments on the peninsula!

Steve (Zaphod):  Yes, I am indeed 22 with a Masters Degree.  I'll be starting my third year on my Ph.D. in the Fall, which will also be in Composition.  I don't have any of my music up online right now, but would like to at some point in the near future.

j-dub:  Hey, I do indeed recognize those exits.  :D  Judging by the exits, that must be somewhere on Highway 61 Southbound near Angstrom.  Except Highway 220 hasn't been built or even approved yet--it's still on the drawing board over at TDOT.  And if traffic does indeed get that bad, I may have to go through with that gag RHW-26 I proposed awhile back.  :D  Thanks for the entertaining pic.  :)

Haljackey:  No worries

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!  I'm a big small town fan myself, so you'll likely be seeing more of them.

Earth quake:  Thanks, and I certainly will. :)

Patricius Maximus:  That is indeed a TLR or TLA-3 there.  And there will be more where that came from. ;)

flame1396:  Thanks, it definitely gets to be a bit tricky to balance at times.  And thanks for the thoughtful comment/suggestion there--I had been toying with going the seawall route, but I've always been rather partial to natural shorelines for some reason.  I do think there are spots in Argentum proper that could use them, though.

Casper (caspervg):  Thanks, I'm really glad to hear you've been enjoying that part of things. :)

Dustin (thundercrack):   :o  Thanks again for the OSITM!  I really appreciate it. :)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the congratulations, and I certainly think, especially in light of the way you picked up on my little error in the last update, that you're more than just a Street-geek. :)

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I really appreciate it!

David (dedgren):  Thank you so much for the kind words and encouragement, my friend.  I really am at a loss of words.  3RR is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, influence on Tarkusian Cities, and really inspired me to go into the mapping end of things.   And thanks for the congrats on the Admin job--I'm just absolutely honored to have been given the opportunity to serve SC4D in that capacity.

bat:  Thanks for starting off page 23!

Robin (rooker1):  Thanks, I'm absolutely thrilled to have this opportunity again!  I hope I can do it justice, and I'm very glad to hear you've been enjoying things here.  I also hope that you enjoy the new updates! :)

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks, and you're going to get your wish. ;)

Maarten (mrtnrln):  Thanks, hope you enjoy the latest installment!

__________________________________________

Well, I hinted that there may be an Airport involved in this update.  And indeed there is.  I've actually made my first real serious attempt at building a custom modular airport.  I may be a bit of a roadgeek, but my knowledge of airports is very limited, so I'm sure I probably have some things to improve here.

Thus, without further adieu, I'd like to introduce the soon-to-be-opened Argentum International Airport (Airport Code ARX), which is located at the Kirkton, along Angstrom Lake, and about 7 miles southeast of downtown Argentum.  While it is an international airport (KLM serves ARX), it is a rather small and specialized one.

Here's an overview shot (looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u31-1.jpg)

And a closeup of Concourse C (also looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u31-2.jpg)

As you can probably notice, the roads are a bit . . . underbuilt around the airport right now.  That's because it was built in a relatively rural/remote/undeveloped area.  Fortunately, both the main roads through there (Highway 68 and Highway 342, which you'll see on an upcoming map) will be getting significant upgrades thanks to TDOT. 

Highway 61 is also still under construction, and a temporary, 4-lane alignment is open, allowing motorists to travel through Angstrom and Argentum uninterrupted.  We'll be looking more at that project.

Here's 61 just south of Redwood Way (looking north).  A temporary 50mph speed limit has been posted in the work zone.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u31-4.jpg)

And remember the old Caldera Lane project?  Well, here's what the Caldera Lane/Slark Way intersection that was built during that project looks like today.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u31-3.jpg)

There will be much more here soon.  There will definitely be some mappage. :)

Hope you enjoyed the latest installment . . .

-Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 30--6/24/2008--Peninsula City)
Post by: Simpson on July 03, 2008, 11:57:59 PM
Hi Tarkus
I really love this new update who is better than the last
The airport is looking superb and realistic
I love the Highway and the city wow really good  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: MandelSoft on July 04, 2008, 01:49:12 AM
Suberb as usually!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: bat on July 04, 2008, 02:02:42 AM
That airport looks really good! The other two pictures are also very nice! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: EDGE4194 on July 04, 2008, 07:56:15 AM
The airport is looking good so far! I haven't tried a modular airport yet either so hopefully your progress will inspire me  :)
great terraforming on the cliff and beach in the last pic- very nice.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on July 04, 2008, 09:03:42 AM
I'll have to see about that blocker too... I'm currently in the process of trying to do away with all Maxis industry, but hadn't found one that didn't block all Maxis buildings.

That airport came out really good, though isn't it a little small for an international airport? And shouldn't it have a place to refuel? It's still leagues better than anything I could build though. Airports and me don't really mix. $%Grinno$%

And OK, I admit it, that new RHW texture looks good there. But I thought that the color difference on SPM pieces was fixed?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 04, 2008, 10:46:03 AM
Wonderful start to your time in OSITM, my friend!

The airport looks great, and so does the Caldera Lane intersection. I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: CasperVg on July 04, 2008, 12:54:22 PM
admirable, amazing, astonishing, astounding, enjoyable, excellent, extraordinary, fabulous, fantastic, fine, good, grand, incredible, lovely, magnificent, marvelous, miraculous, phenomenal, sensational, super, superb, surprising, terrific, wondrous.

Enough synonyms for today...
From: Synonym Collection v1.1
         Copyright © 2008 by Lexico Publishing Group, LLC.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: The_Hutt on July 04, 2008, 01:05:32 PM
Congrats on the OSITM.

The airport looks pretty good (nice terrain modd, by the way). The runway is a little bit short for those big 747's but that's definitely excusable in SC4. Overall this is looking rather fabulous, keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: Jmouse on July 04, 2008, 05:03:50 PM
I'm certainly no expert on airports, but your design looks good to me. Also, you've left room for expansion and that's a good thing. I don't know what kind of passenger load you have or expect, but it's always a good idea to plan ahead when laying out any major project.

As always, you've given us some interesting things to admire, and I'm looking forward to the seeing what's in store for the rest of July. Especially the maps because they are so helpful to me. My online time may be a bit limited next week, but I'll pop in whenever possible.

Later...
Joan

*EDIT* This (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/fr_main.htm) No Maxis mod on the LEX might help. It eliminates Maxis R, C and I separately, and I believe it's CAM-patable where some of the others are not. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: paroch on July 05, 2008, 12:39:56 AM
Hi Tarkus,

This is my first post here - for that I'm sorry.

Congrats on the OSITM award - you have a very well followed MD here, so the award just reinforces what the number of views and posts is saying.

The airport is looking good, as Joan says, room for growth if needed.

I'll make sure I visit more regularly during yout OSITM time.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: sebes on July 05, 2008, 05:49:04 AM
^^^ Paul - you really missed something here. I suggest to read this entire MD from start as it's excellent... You really do not want to miss a thing from it!

Alex: the airport is very nice, and indeed there is plenty of space for future expansions. Not bad for a start!

A few minor comments: I believe the piers are a bit to small to handle 747's.  You should have gate area's where 250-400 people can wait and arrive... The same for the terminal building: if there are 7 747's arriving, you'll need a huge baggage claim area, and room for customs. You might want to fix this before you developpe the entire tile...
You also should do something about the grass in the corners on the tarmac. I am sure there is a piece as well to construct the corner in the way how you want it.

But- the airport is very nice and: I am proud that KLM is operating 747-services to Argentum! We don't just take every distination in our network so Argentum must have special to offer... indeed : it has!  ;)


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: sincitybaby on July 05, 2008, 09:59:12 AM
Hi Tarkus!

In addition to what Sebes said, you should add hangars, and a refueling station.

I'm sure this airport is going to need an elaborate interchange   ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: threestooges on July 05, 2008, 08:07:30 PM
The airport is off to a good start (though I would encourage the construction crews to contemplate a second runway before they put up their tools). I'm looking forward to seeing what else you'll do with the area. The Caldera Lane/Slark Way intersection area turned out great. The area should reap the benefits of it soon enough. When you get a working version of Signage to a point you might wish to share, I hope you'll share it around here. I would be interested in hearing what a song like that would sound like. You certainly have hit the mark for interest this update (no surprise there), good work.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31--7/3/2008--A New Airport?)
Post by: Pat on July 06, 2008, 08:36:56 PM
Alex,
  I am impressed there with that Airport there!!! It fits so very well in with your Wasco Terrian and so far very realistic.... WoW!!!  Also a congrats to you on your second trip to OSITM...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: Tarkus on July 09, 2008, 02:41:30 PM
Little teaser of things to come . . .

More or less re-built the map from scratch . . . with all the various new additions.  Argentum's changed quite a lot.

[URL=http://img141.imageshack.us/my.php?image=argentummap7042008ic4.png][IMG]http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/5104/argentummap7042008ic4.th.png[/img][/URL]

There's a few new road names on there, too, that you'll find interesting.

Back with more shortly.

-Alex (Tarkus)

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: Jmouse on July 09, 2008, 03:46:47 PM
What a lovely view of the lake! And along the lines of coincidence, mind reading or something, I once had a region called Mill Pointe Valley. Simply amazing and I am deeply honored. But don't you think the "St." should have been before the name instead of after? No? Well, you're probably right! :D

Looking forward to more, more, more...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: bakerton on July 09, 2008, 09:52:44 PM
Alex, What a awesome job with the airport. I just might fly in to see everything myself and all the work that is going on. Keep the work coming dude. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: MandelSoft on July 10, 2008, 12:33:52 AM
Hmmm... I recognise some names (like Tropod Pkwy). Nicely done, Tarkus!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: bat on July 10, 2008, 03:04:29 AM
That new road map is looking very nice there, Tarkus! Really nice work on it... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: Haljackey on July 10, 2008, 12:03:50 PM
Whoa!  Awesome map!   :thumbsup: 

This is kind of a stupid question, but how can you make a map like that?  Does it render from SC4 or did you make it manually?

Again, amazing work!  Congrats on making it to "Of Special Interest This Month" once again!  The Classics board is now within reach...

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: JoeST on July 10, 2008, 12:44:19 PM
Hal,

I believe he makes it using Inkscape (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inkscape) (at least someone i know does...) or some such Vector graphics drawing program... i remember it from someones thread...

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: sebes on July 10, 2008, 01:03:55 PM
Wow Alex - great map. I am glad to see that you have planned the 261 connection from downtown accross the Isthmus and Argentum inlet to area where the airport used to be, as I suggest back in october (here (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg78994#msg78994)

Even though the airport was moved by the brave mayor, a lot of citizens will be very happy with this connection. Just currious, will it be a bridge or a big dig? Anyhow, don't forget a cool exit at Sebes Rd to give "my" street easy access to the northern part of town ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: EDGE4194 on July 12, 2008, 07:40:35 AM
Alex- I must commend you again on your skills as a cartographer. As a person who is fascinated by maps, yours are just as good as any published map I've seen. In fact I love the 'clean' look of your map. I've followed your tutorial to create my own, and quickly realized I didn't have the patience or time, so i know how much effort you put into it.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: paroch on July 12, 2008, 02:49:19 PM
Hey Tarkus - that is a map and a half - great job there.  When I see something as detailed and great looking as that I can only be envious.  I can only imagine how long it must have taken.

Paul
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 31.5--7/9/2008--Argentum Map Teaser)
Post by: threestooges on July 12, 2008, 08:10:22 PM
I've seen a few good maps around here but (again, no surprise) this one is great. Excellent detail, it's very clean and the inclusion of schools and churches is something you don't see too often, but is a great touch. I'll look forward to watching the development proposed.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map--First Draft)
Post by: Tarkus on July 15, 2008, 01:37:22 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, RL's crunching me a little bit right now (end of my Summer classes), so I'll have to make this brief, unfortunately.  But I have something you may enjoy here . . .

A full-street level map of the entire Argentum region (36 large tiles--6x6 square). . . (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/ACp0sHDF7W)
It's still a bit of a rough draft, so there's quite a bit that isn't marked up yet, most of the "hard stuff" is done.  I've largely only focused on 3-4 tiles of the region in this MD, so there's a lot that will be completely new here.  And if you're wondering what those thin black lines are, they're Railroads . . . I still need to clean up the details on them a little--I figured out how to make them look more "Railroady" in Inkscape.

I have to pass on my most sincere thanks to our good friend Kevin (BigSlark) for pointing out Gmap Uploader (http://gmapuploader.com) the other day at 3RR.  It's a site which allows you to import custom maps into the Google Maps interface.  So, that means no more ImageShack popups, plus you can more easily scroll/zoom.

Thank you for all your support and kind words, and I'll be getting back to (long overdue  :-[) replies to all your great comments within the next couple days, along with a return to road construction.

-Alex (Tarkus)

(n.b.--To quickly answer Haljackey's question, since it's directly related to the maps, Update 21 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg111886#msg111886) here was dedicated entirely to a mapping tutorial--hope that helps!)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: Haljackey on July 15, 2008, 03:02:45 PM
Wow... I am as blind as a bat.  Thanks for getting back to me about the map, Alex!  At first glance it looks a little complicated, but I think I will understand how to make a map once I get my head into it.

Oh, and good luck on your summer exams! 

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: Jmouse on July 15, 2008, 03:51:46 PM
Very impressive work on the map, Alex. I'm going to enjoy exploring it in more detail later this week. Eventually it's something I would like to try myself - I love Adobe Illustrator (CS2) and will use it for mapping if possible.

You might find it amusing to know that on our recent road trip (8 hours there and 7 back), when I grew bored with my crosswords I started thumbing through the road atlas. I think I'm starting to pick up some patterns and find myself wondering how they would work in game.

There can be no doubt you have a new convert...
;)
Joan

P.S.: As for your end-of-class finals, you don't need luck. You already have the knowledge, skill and focus you need to do well, and I know you'll use them to your best advantage.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: thundercrack83 on July 15, 2008, 08:34:01 PM
What a map, Alex!

Magnificent work, my friend! You've certainly put in the hours on that, and it's paid off! I can't wait to see what you've got for us next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: MandelSoft on July 16, 2008, 12:43:58 AM
Nice Map, Alex  &apls
And for making maps, I use Flash (which has vector images, which is ideal for maps)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: sebes on July 18, 2008, 03:43:03 AM
Impressive Alex - very impressive....

I'm pleased to see the new location of the airport - great spot! With a lake on two sites that brings down the number of people demanding noice reduction actions! Although, it's a bit away from the freeway.... I think I can predict some major congestion on Road 342 and the surroundings of Kirkton in future.

Well - that can only mean that we have some very pleasant time following your construction workers ahead of us  ()stsfd()


Edit: well - I always download your maps (call me crazy if you want) but cannot download this one from the Google Upload.... Do you mind also posting an imageshack version?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: bohort on July 26, 2008, 03:02:29 AM
Your city is very beautiful !  :thumbsup:
I like your map. On the other hand, your airport is little and the terminals is too many little and I would add an
other runway  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: j-dub on July 27, 2008, 09:05:40 PM
Oh man, as a Google map, that looked real, and made this city seem real. Nice one.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: bat on July 28, 2008, 01:07:28 AM
Nice work on that map (google map)!
Looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Tarkus on July 30, 2008, 01:50:08 AM
Sneaking in a little update . . . some preparations for Highway 261 in Argentum. :)

Here's a map from before the changes in this update (quite a way back in October . . . haven't found a more recent, accurate one with this city tile included)
[URL=http://img186.imageshack.us/my.php?image=argentumnowcm3.png][IMG]http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/153/argentumnowcm3.th.png[/img][/URL]

Here's the most recent map of Argentum, showing the changes from this update (and some from the next couple updates--also included in the "big" map):
[URL=http://img141.imageshack.us/my.php?image=argentummap7042008ic4.png][IMG]http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/5104/argentummap7042008ic4.th.png[/img][/URL]

And speaking of maps, I know there's some interest in my uploading the big map from Update 32 onto ImageShack . . . however, the sheer size of the image (it's over 10,000px wide and tall) has been problematic with ImageShack . . . I'm looking into alternate methods now . . . possibly splitting the map into little city-tile based units and making a "grid", consisting of a table of regional map segments, but I haven't decided yet.  I'll get it figured out somehow, though. :)

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Argentum Boulevard Re-Alignment: Isthmus to Palafox/Nywood

This project will re-align an unnecessarily curvy section of Argentum Boulevard, due north of Downtown Argentum, and intersections with Parallel Drive, Meastro Road, Nywood Road and Palafox Street.  It is a joint collaboration between TDOT and the City of Argentum's Transportation Office, and in addition to improve safety and intersection geometry along this important surface arterial, it will also be the one of several projects in preparation for the opening of the Central Argentum Beltway (Highway 261).

This is a before shot of Argentum Boulevard looking north at the current overpass over Highway 261.  The old (OWR-based) on/off ramps from when this sunken grade carried Highway 4 were still in place.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-003.jpg)

The existing intersection between Argentum Boulevard and Parallel Drive (looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-004.jpg)

The overpass torn out, with work beginning on the new alignment on the south side of the freeway grade (looking north).  The Olive Garden on Parallel Drive, along with approximately 20 homes, had to be demolished in order to make way for the new roadway.  (And if there are any Olive Garden fans, no need to worry . . . they've already built a new location.)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-007.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-008.jpg)

The first home demolitions. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-010.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-011.jpg)

The former alignment at the Meastro Road intersection (looking north).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-005.jpg)

The current intersection with Nywood Road, and the start of construction (looking north), which has resulted in Nywood being closed.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-006.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-012.jpg)

Due to intersection geometry issues with both the Argentum/Nywood intersection and the Nywood/Palafox intersections, Nywood Road will be closed off at Palafox Street, and Palafox will be extended to an intersection with Argentum Boulevard.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-014.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-015.jpg)

A look at the east end of the new Palafox/Nywood intersection. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-001.jpg)

The City of Argentum is looking at a further study of the Argentum/Caldera intersection just to the north as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u32-002.jpg)

More to catch you up on in a little bit . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 32--7/15/2008--The BIG Argentum Map, First Draft)
Post by: JoeST on July 30, 2008, 01:56:50 AM
Very nice Alex :)

interesting read, some nice solutions.

of course, cant wait for more ;)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: CasperVg on July 30, 2008, 02:00:57 AM
Very nice, some steep slopes those workmen face tho  ::)
Congrats on page 25, and not too far from Classics as well
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: bat on July 30, 2008, 03:29:42 AM
The update is like always fantastic! Nice work!

Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Simpson on July 30, 2008, 08:24:59 AM
Wow Tarkus the new update is simply superb
I really love the style of your work
Continu it's really good ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on July 30, 2008, 09:46:54 AM
 :thumbsup: Another great update. I love the construction site scenes, and the new Argentum Blvd. alignment should serve traffic well.
And also I noticed extensive use of the TLA-5 and SPM.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Haljackey on July 30, 2008, 10:20:29 AM
Excellent update Alex!   :thumbsup:   I am liking how you are using the NAM curves and FAR to give your roads a more realistic feel to them.  The road construction also looks great!  I can't wait to see it finished!  Nice maps too!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Meastro444 on July 30, 2008, 10:34:12 AM
thank you thank you thank you! :thumbsup:

i got a road named after me :)

very nice update Tarkus, keep it up!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Quesh on July 30, 2008, 10:35:43 AM
I like see the work in a city, its evolution ... and here you've really succeeded bravo  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: sebes on July 30, 2008, 11:25:44 AM
Truly - a piece of art shown again - the master laying the roads....  I feel more and more liek an idiot  ?=mad)= when looking at the way you restructure the infrastructure of the city. But please, continue! I love being  ?=mad)= you know....

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Jmouse on July 30, 2008, 11:59:32 AM
Alex, following all this reconstruction on your wonderful map is just too fascinating! I'd be completely lost without it and probably would have given up trying to make sense of it long ago. As it is, though, I feel that I'm catching a glimpse of what city planners and engineers would see, and that makes the process really interesting.

As always, your construction photos are so true-to-life,
sparking many memories of trying to drive through work zones! I'm anxious to see the finished product, but I'm enjoying the step-by-step account of progress, too.

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34-8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Tarkus on August 01, 2008, 12:47:09 AM
Back with another update to close out the month.  (Edit:  It became August 1st while I was posting . . . so I guess now it's an update to start the new month.  ::))  We'll be looking at another joint TDOT/City of Argentum project, which will reconfigure some slightly confusing intersections and further "pave the way" (no pun intended) for Highway 261.  And buildings had better watch out . . .

[img]http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/9820/demolitioncv0.jpg[/img]

(thanks to sebes for finding this image)

First, replies:

JoeST:  Thanks, I'm glad you liked the solutions I've worked out . . . hope this next update satisfies. :)

Casper (caspervg):  Yes, those are some rather steep slopes.  :D  it's been kind of interesting rebuilding Argentum.  Having used Slope Mods for awhile now, and looking back at things like that, I'm just amazed how lumpy the game's default slope parameters are.  Thanks for the kind words!

bat:  Thanks, I'm happy to hear you enjoyed it!

Simpson:  Thank you for the compliments, and don't worry, I'll definitely be continuing, hopefully for some time to come. :)

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks, I'm quite glad to hear you enjoyed the construction, and traffic is seeming to flow quite smoothly on Argentum Boulevard in that section now . . . you'll be seeing quite a bit of that thoroughfare in the next few updates, including the "restored" section between Argentum and Angstrom.  And of course, more TLA-5 and SPM, maybe even some . . . um . . . other new stuff.  ;)

Haljackey:  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you enjoyed the FAR and Road Curve usage.  I've been having quite a bit of fun with the FAR, so you'll be definitely be seeing a lot more of it.  And the construction will soon be in a more complete stage . . . there's some interesting stuff in the works for 261 . . .  (*cough* Multi-RHW *cough*)

Meastro444:  Thanks, and you're welcome for the road!  Consider it a "double-0" honor for post #100 here . . .

. . . and just as a side note, in case anyone's wondering, here's all the road names that have been given out:

Double-0 Posts
#100--Meastro 444: Meastro Road (Argentum)
#200--EDGE4194: Edge Road (Gray Creek)
#300--FrankU: Frank Way (Cuprum)
#400--krbe: Kristian Drive (Argentum)
#500--???

Others
BigSlark: Slark Way (Argentum)
Lollo: Lollo Boulevard (Argentum)
sebes: Sebes Road (Argentum)
Jmouse: Joan Street (Argentum)
Tropod: Tropod Parkway (Argentum/Cuprum)
jplumbley: Plumbley Drive (Argentum/Angstrom)

Quesh:  Thanks, I'm happy to hear you enjoyed it.  I've always been a big fan of seeing stuff in progress as well, so you'll definitely be seeing more of that sort of thing here (including this update).

sebes:  Nothing wrong with being  ?=mad)=.  :D   

[post style=dedgren]
. . . and you're no slouch at the transport thing yourself, either . . . 
[/post style=dedgren]

Thanks for the very kind words, my friend.  Continue I shall. :)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thank you so much for the kind words, and I'm always glad to hear the maps have been enjoyable and helpful for you.  That whole planning/engineering process has fascinated me from a very early age, and it has remained that way for me.  And I can relate all too well to wanting to see the construction done, too . . . I think most motorists in RL share that viewpoint, too. :D  Though being the big roadgeek that I am, I always purposely go through construction zones, when they're reasonably accessible.  Crazy, I know.  :D
________________________________________________
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Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project

This project will realign Parallel Drive west of Costa Drive, directly connecting it to Peninsula Drive, reconfiguring several intersections along Costa Drive in the process.    In addition, the intersections on Costa Drive with Parallel Drive, Peninsula Avenue, Villeneuve Street and Eastshore Circle will be improved to allow for better traffic flow on these streets.  The disconnected western segment of Parallel Drive left by the project will be closed and subsequently demolished, as it is in the path of the new Highway 261 alignment.

The Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project is a joint project between TDOT and the City of Argentum.

(all pics looking north)
This is a shot of the existing intersections of Costa Drive with Parallel Drive, Peninsula Avenue and Villeneuve Street--two major signalized intersections within a very short distance.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-002.jpg)

The subdivision behind the Safeway on Costa Drive has been demolished to make way for the new Parallel Drive alignment.  The 4-lane route shown is Peninsula Avenue.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-003.jpg)

A temporary roadway is built to connect Parallel Drive up to Peninsula, allowing for the reconfiguration of the Peninsula and Villeneuve intersections on Costa Drive without disrupting access to nearby homes and businesses.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-004.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-005.jpg)

Peninsula Avenue is subsequently closed to begin work on the new S-Curve that will connect it to Parallel Drive.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-006.jpg)

A look at the end of one alignment, and the beginnings of another.  Pavement has been laid on the new Parallel Drive alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-007.jpg)

Reconfiguration of the temporary access road, and more work on the curve.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-008.jpg)

The temporary access road is removed, as it is in the way of the new alignment.  Motorists accessing Peninsula Avenue were directed to use Isthmus Avenue as a detour.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-009.jpg)

The Peninsula Avenue intersection with Costa Drive has now been closed.  The sharp curve connecting Peninsula and Villeneuve will be removed, in favor of converting the last segment of Villeneuve from essentially a "glorified slip lane" to a full-on 4-lane road, with a signalized intersection at Costa.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-010.jpg)

The new Villeneuve intersection is built, and the old Peninsula Avenue alignment has been converted to a residential street.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-011.jpg)

In order to further consolidate the intersections along Costa Drive, Villeneuve will be directly connected up to Eastshore Circle.  As a result, the police station for the Isthmus Precinct had to be relocated.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-012.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-013.jpg)

The finished Peninsula/Parallel connection.  Due to intersection geometry concerns, the access to the former section of Peninsula Avenue and the connected neighborhood only has RIRO (right-in, right-out) access to Peninsula/Parallel, and motorists from the other direction must use Costa Drive to access the old Peninsula alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u34-014.jpg)

Tune in next time for a new Armadillo Realignment.  Same Armadillo Channel.  Same Armadillo Time.
(sorry--couldn't resist the reference to the original Batman TV show from the 60s . . .)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 33--7/30/2008--Argentum Blvd North End Realign)
Post by: Simpson on August 01, 2008, 12:49:45 AM
Wow really beautiful my friend
I love the avenue int the city
Continue you make a good job  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: JoeST on August 01, 2008, 01:47:43 AM
OMNOMNOMNOMNOMNOM

it was great, satisfied my needs perfectly :D

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: sebes on August 01, 2008, 02:09:03 AM
Just wow... 

(disconnecting my PC today because a new one will be delivered - yes!  &hlp
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on August 01, 2008, 02:42:18 AM
I like Tarkus, how you take your time on one City!  Those Streets really look nice!


                                                      ~Nexis~
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: bat on August 01, 2008, 05:58:43 AM
Really nice there! Wonderful new update!

Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: rushman5 on August 01, 2008, 07:35:05 AM
I love the fairly accurate construction site, and the beach-terrain-rock mod you are using.  Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Haljackey on August 01, 2008, 08:25:20 AM
What a way to end your time here in "Of Special Interest This Month" and, very soon, your "Best Seller" status.  Fantastic update!

I love the road allignment's result!  It looks much more realistic!  Your road construction photos always look great, and you really excelled here. 
-On a side note, its funny you mentioned RIRO in your MD the same time I mentioned it in my MD (updated a few hours before you).

And, lastly, a early welcome to the "Classics" board.  Only two more posts until you reach that milestone!   :)

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on August 01, 2008, 09:25:49 AM
Well I'll go ahead and be 498.

Excellent update, but you might want to look in to the photos of the S-curve under construction. I can only see them when replying.

Nice construction shots (again), usually reading your updates makes me want to go and realign a lot of my roads.

Quote[post style=dedgren]
. . . and you're no slouch at the transport thing yourself, either . . . 
[/post style=dedgren]

:D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Jmouse on August 01, 2008, 12:26:48 PM
Alex, I'd love to have the honor of propelling Tarkusian Cities into the Classic section, but I'll leave the 500th post to someone else. Do let me be the first to congratulate you on passing the milestone I'm confident you'll reach any minute now, though! :thumbsup:

As always, this update was thorough, easy to follow and obviously needed. The end result looks great - a vast improvement over the traffic jams that would be caused by the former layout. And if I may leave you with a small request: I know we have your maps to go by, but would you consider showing an in-game overview of Argentum? Just a thought.

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Unassigned on August 01, 2008, 12:40:06 PM
Great that you show the construction sites, let us follow the process in that reconfiguration project.

Oh, and "Wakeman" is surely not named for an element but for teh keyboard virtuoso.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: Quesh on August 01, 2008, 12:50:58 PM
This is superb &apls
Also both thought your update  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: JoeST on August 01, 2008, 12:53:31 PM
You do realize you inspired me to play the game again :o

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: threestooges on August 01, 2008, 12:58:01 PM
Alex,
Spiffy little redesign you've done there. If you have the time, I'd like to see a finsihed pic of the area (when it's finished of course). Also, where'd the police station get relocated to? Great maps, and great work Armadilloman.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: thundercrack83 on August 01, 2008, 01:03:20 PM
Congratulations on making it to the Classics, Alex!

Finally, your work is where it belongs!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: dedgren on August 01, 2008, 02:02:23 PM
I've been sitting here since shortly after Joan posted to see who would wind up with the 500th comment on TC- congrats to Unassigned, who will now leave some poor Sim residing on "Unassigned Drive," or some such.

Tarkusian Cities never fails to amaze us, Alex, with your imaginative and quite realistic account of various suburban road and highway improvements.  You've made great use of those few "under construction" lots and props that are out there- despite the fact that I know that, I never get a sense of "I've seen this before."  RL Transportation improvement projects always get my attention- they are way too few and far between these days.  The ones in TC help fill that space.

Nice way to move out of a month of OSITM- into the Classics, and who knows where to after that.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: EDGE4194 on August 02, 2008, 04:11:30 PM
 &apls another great update alex- your contruction projects are always fascinating to follow. can't wait to see what TDOT will improve next.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: bakerton on August 03, 2008, 07:54:38 AM
Alex, You may have inspired me on some projects of my own. What a great job with everything. Keep it coming amigo. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: thundercrack83 on August 03, 2008, 12:24:39 PM
Quote
Alex, You may have inspired me on some projects of my own.

I could not agree with this statement more. Every time I come here, I am inspired to not only play the game, but to think about how to play the game and to me, that is a great thing!

As I said earlier, your MD has not found it's home where the work inside always should have been, my friend! You've got something special here, Alex!

Take care,

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: paroch on August 09, 2008, 02:42:46 PM
Welcome to the Classics Tarkus.  I know I'm not a regular poster here, but now we're on the same page I'll be popping in more often (the older I get the more stuck in my habits I become ::) )

Great last update there.  It's interesting to see your thought process with regards that new road there.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 34--8/1/2008--Parallel-Peninsula Corridor Project)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 10, 2008, 12:26:38 AM
Quote from: dedgren on August 01, 2008, 02:02:23 PM
...congrats to Unassigned, who will now leave some poor Sim residing on "Unassigned Drive," or some such.

lol... reminds me of SA's joke when he had the Savannah MD (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/messageview.cfm?catid=36&threadid=69717&highlight_key=y&keyword1=savannah%20way) at Simtropolis:

Quote from: Shadow Assassin
Narrator: The next stage of Odgen Veremunde's journey is in Nowhere. A town with just under 30,000 people, the town is an ideal place to stay for a few days - in fact, much of the population is made up of people who fell for the charm of the region's only lake - Nowhere's primary claim to fame, despite much confusion when people ask where the lake in question is. For example:
- Tourist: Do you know where the lake is?
- Local: Nowhere.
- Tourist: Where?
- Local: It's in Nowhere, damnit!
- Tourist: And where's Nowhere?
- Local: Follow the signs.
- Tourist: But I might end up in a dead end or something. It leads nowhere, for God's sake!
- Local: GAH! YOU DIE! *stab stab*
(*DISCLAIMER: This situation is merely hypothetical. It is not meant to be tried out at home. However, if you wish to, it would be recommended to use a plastic knife.)

:D :P

Anyway, tarkus... I'm still worried that your citizens are getting pushed around a lot. $%Grinno$% Nice work though. :thumbsup:

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Tarkus on August 21, 2008, 10:33:24 PM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities is finally back with a brand-new region, which will, as you can probably guess, has some construction projects under way.  We'll get back to Argentum and the Highway 261 project in a little bit.

LOS ENDOS: An Overview

Current Population: 36,000

Map
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map-old.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map-old.png)

Aerial image, facing north

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-1.jpg)

Downtown Los Endos, at the corner of 0th Street and Unassigned Way, with a glimpse of the parking lot for Delos Community College. (facing north)
(You may have seen this one if you were following the Pic Competition)

[img]http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/1348/losendos08142008vk2.jpg[/img]

0th Street is the main north-south arterial through downtown. 

The cardinal directions attached to the street names indicate whether a street is East or West of 0th. 

The north-south routes east of 0th are further numbered streets (1st Street, 2nd Street, etc.) while those west begin with letter names (A Street, B Street, etc.) . . . until they run out of letters (which hasn't happened yet).  East-west streets are just named. 

There also was a somewhat humorous attempt by a couple of city council members to get TDOT to assign highway status to Unassigned and part of 0th, as Highway 404.  TDOT, being the no nonsense folks that they are, though, rebuffed the idea, largely on the ground that the route didn't really add anything significant to the state route system.  This decision was met with little enthusiasm by the citizenry.

The south edge of town is dominated largely by agricultural uses. This is along E Gallatin Road.  (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-6.jpg)

The high-tech area and community library, at the corner of E 15th (Highway 33) Milvedo Drive. (facing west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-5.jpg)

This is along Los Endos Boulevard, near 8th Street, by the Wal-Mart and power substation. (facing west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-3.jpg)

Residential area just north of Unassigned Drive (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-4.jpg)

And now a few shots along Highway 33 in its various guises.

This is the intersection of 11th and Los Endos, currently one of the busiest intersections in town (facing west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-7.jpg)

Here is where 11th curves over and turns into Essex Drive (facing west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-8.jpg)

The second sharp curve, off Essex onto 15th Street, by the water tower agglomeration and the elementary school (facing west).  As you can probably guess, this isn't exactly the safest roadway . . . the speed limit here only ranges between a paltry 25-30mph (40-50 km/h, for you metric folks)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-10.jpg)

Highway 33/15th Street actually intersects Highway 94 (the Desert Lakes Highway) with an at-grade intersection. (facing north) 94's intersections are all at-grade at the moment, though that may potentially be changing.  33 becomes the Crater Highway on the other side, and provides access to Hephaestus National Park.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u35-9.jpg)

As you could probably tell in the overview and the map, there were two things going on: Highway 33 currently has a rather circuitous, unsafe route through Los Endos, and TDOT has started work on a realignment.  We'll be seeing the work on that re-alignment next time--and replies, too. I can't thank you all enough for all of your support here--I'm absolutely honored and overwhelmed to be here in the Classics section.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on August 21, 2008, 10:52:28 PM
Wow, a new region!

Nice shots of the TLA-3 and new 2x2 smooth curves in action, and are those t21'd stop signs I see at the highway intersection?

I'm sure 33 won't stay that circuitous for very long though, with TDOT working on it.

Anyway, can't wait to see how you set up the construction projects, and welcome to the Classics! (Don't believe I said it yet being #498 last time...)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Simpson on August 21, 2008, 11:19:43 PM
Hey Tarkus,
Your new update is very good I love it, your city is looking very very good  &apls
The fields are very réalistic lol and your RHW is incredible
I'm looking forward to the next update my friend  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: MandelSoft on August 22, 2008, 03:12:03 AM
First updat after three weeks... And it's worth waiting! I see some unreleased stuff there (A RHW bridge, Smaller smooth curves, TLA-3). Can't wait to get those  ;D. Beside that, I like your city layout. Keep it up!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 22, 2008, 06:55:43 AM
Ah... there's Unassigned Way...  :D

Great work so far, except I fear I see two inevitable demolitions and maybe some more with the new highway 33 alignment... even though the city is already new... $%Grinno$%

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Haljackey on August 22, 2008, 08:07:19 AM
A new Tarkusian City? Wow, I'm impressed!   :thumbsup:

Excellent use of all the new NAM "goodies"!  The way you have place them has resulted in a very creative layout for Los Endos.  I also like your extensive use of the 3-laned road (TLA, right?). 

Anyways great work as always and I will be back for more!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Jmouse on August 22, 2008, 01:40:17 PM
Very enjoyable update, Alex! It's a pleasure to take a nice tour of Los Endos before construction begins. My favorites are the Ag areas and neighborhoods. I got my fill of big-city life after 45 years in Houston, so give me fresh air and wide-open spaces! Just wondering what an at-grade intersection is, though. Guess I need to start visiting the NAM thread more often!

Anyway, it all looks good but I find myself kind of anxious to see what changes the DOT has in store for us!

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: BigSlark on August 22, 2008, 06:24:43 PM
Alex,

Its been awhile since I've posted, but great work as I've come to expect from you! I love your use of all those neat new network toys that you've been working on.

Keep up the great work.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: CasperVg on August 23, 2008, 01:26:04 AM
I'm away for two weeks and you show off another beautiful city. It's always fun to see the new developments for the NAM, some wonderful teaser (and do I see T21'ed stop signs on the road-RHW at-grade intersection...?)  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: bat on August 23, 2008, 06:44:03 AM
Welcome to page 27!!

Great new city there! The update is great and the pictures, too! And looking forward to more of it... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Quesh on August 23, 2008, 08:09:02 AM
Very good job  &apls
It's very well done construction on these valleys  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: EDGE4194 on August 23, 2008, 08:59:37 AM
As usual Alex, I am awed by your fantastic map (love the railroad indicator). I am looking forward to see what TDOT has in store for this area!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: art128 on August 23, 2008, 09:06:56 AM
Hello Tarkus, i see all your MD and it's very beautiful  &apls i realy like the last update very realistic  &apls
I'm looking foward to a new update  ;)
Arthur
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: bakerton on August 25, 2008, 05:37:55 AM
I like the town Alex. It looks like a great place to live. I look forward to more. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 25, 2008, 05:47:45 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on August 21, 2008, 10:33:24 PM
The second sharp curve, off Essex onto 15th Street, by the water tower agglomeration and the elementary school (facing west).  As you can probably guess, this isn't exactly the safest roadway . . . the speed limit here only ranges between a paltry 25-30mph (40-50 km/h, for you metric folks)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F4526%2Fu3510tp5.jpg&hash=6dff966563c00b5093709811bfa910b36d924949)

A road roundabout will do i think? or maybe a one-way roundabout with a road shift on the 15th street?

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on August 25, 2008, 06:58:13 PM
Very nice work, Alex.

By the way, it'd be a good idea to fix the right-hand approaches to the RHW bridge, there seems to be a rather abrupt (and dangerous) slope change right before going onto the bridge. Will that be fixed as part of the works that the DoT has planned?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: Pat on August 25, 2008, 07:47:18 PM
Alex love the new RHW texture there and the stop signs and SPM signage I see!!! Hmmm what else did I see here?? Ohh FARR work too lol... Looking very good here Alex and I cant wait to see the improvements that DOT has instore here...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: dmscopio on August 25, 2008, 10:25:46 PM
nice suburban area there, keep it up my friend! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: Tarkus on August 28, 2008, 01:30:59 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with another installment of Tarkusian Cities.  We'll be back in Los Endos, where TDOT is straightening out Highway 33, and building an interchange at Highway 94.

But first, (long belated) replies for the last two updates:

UPDATE 34--Parallel/Peninsula Corridor Realignment

David (Simpson): Thanks, I'm glad you liked the avenue there!

JoeST: Mission accomplished, then. :D  Thanks!

sebes: I'm in the same boat--new laptop myself.  Runs SC4 great, too!  Hope you're enjoying your new PC, too.

Nexis: Thanks, I do have a bit of a tendency to just keep going on one city--Argentum is up around 600 game years now.  I always just keep finding things to improve.  And I'm glad you liked the streets there.

bat: I'm glad you enjoyed the update--thanks! 

rushman5: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction site and liked the terrain mod.  Technically, it's supposed to be a desert mod (of my own creation), but I could see how it could be good for beaches, too.

Haljackey: Thanks for the kind words, my friend.  There's more realignment to come, and the RIRO coincidence is too funny.   Great transit minds think alike, I guess. :D

deathtopumpkins: Thanks, if I've inspired just one person to go and realign roads, that's mission accomplished! :D  I actually got the post-style wrong, though--he tends to put the dots in the ellipses together, without space.  I have a bit of a tendency to study people's posting styles, I guess. :D

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks for the congratulations, Joan!  I'm glad it was easy to follow, and I'll definitely start doing in-game aerials--that's a fantastic suggestion.

Unassigned: I'm glad you enjoyed the whole construction process, and thanks for making the big #500.  If you didn't catch the last update, you've now got a road named in your honor.  And you're right on the Wakeman origins--that whole town (as well as all the other regions I've shown) are laced with prog references.  Latin element names and prog . . . who would have thought? :D 

Quesh: Merci, my friend.  Glad you enjoyed it.

JoeST: Hey, if I can get people playing the game, um . . . mission accomplished (for some reason I keep saying that tonight). 

Matt (threestooges): Thanks, I'm glad you like the realignment there.  The area will be pretty much unrecognizable once it's done.  As far as the police station, it's right across the street from the site of the old one.  They didn't have to go too far, fortunately.

Dustin (thundercrack83): Thank you for the kind words, my friend.  I'm thrilled to be here. :)

David (dedgren): Prediction correct.  :D  There's only a few houses along it, though. 

And thank you so much for the compliments, David.  I feel much the same way about RL transportation projects, and this MD is helping me fill that void for myself as well.  A large part of the reason I play SC4 is as an outlet to express my "inner engineer".  That has never gotten old in the 4 years I've had SC4.  It's almost heriditary--my dad is actually an electrical engineer for a small municipal power company and has a highway engineering degree. 

And I'm thrilled to be in Classics now, too. 

Eric (EDGE4194): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the latest construction projects, and don't worry TDOT has a lot of big things in the works. ;)

Jon (bakerton): Thanks! That's just about the greatest compliment I can think of. 

Dustin (thundercrack83): You are too kind, Dustin. :)  Again, that's just about the greatest compliment. 

Paul (paroch): Thanks, and I'm thrilled being on the same page as you and West End now (which I need to pop into), as well as all the other great MDs here.  I hope you enjoy this latest update, too!

Allan (allan_kuan1992): Hehe . . . well, they know the value of investing in good transportation infrastructure. :D  It's product of Tarkusian education.  Grin No Thanks for stopping by!

UPDATE 35--Introducing the City of Los Endos

deathtopumpkins: Yes, I've got a couple new regions I've started on, actually.  All these great NHP maps floating around.  Can't.  Stop.  Building.  New Regions.  :D (Los Endos is built on NHP Hephaestus by blade2k5 and beskhu3epnm)

And as far as 33 goes, you'll be seeing what happens to it this time around--I think you'll like it. ;)

And those are indeed T21'd stop signs (and stop lines) there at the 33/94 intersection.  I've added a few here and there as I've had the chance.

David (Simpson): Thanks, my friend.  I'm glad you like the new city.  I'll be showing lots more fields and RHWs, too, in the next couple updates--hope you enjoy this one.

Maarten (mrtnrln): I'm glad it was worth the wait.  And I can't wait to release that stuff, either.  :)  Thanks for the compliments on the city layout, too!

Allan (allan_kuan): Indeed.  And it crosses 0th Street, too.  :D Well, fortunately, the way Los Endos has been planned, TDOT won't have to demolish quite so much . . . only 2 buildings were demolished this entire update, actually.

Haljackey: Thanks for the kind words!  And I'm glad you enjoyed the new mod usage--there will be quite a bit more in this update (*cough* TLA-5 *cough*).  Hope you enjoy it!

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!  I plan on showing more Ag in this region, too--I haven't really done a big Agriculture update, and it's high time I did.  I've finally gotten around to playing around with some of Chrisadams' stuff, too--I absolutely love the new flora. 

And I'm completely with you on the open space thing, too.  I always try to keep at least some around. 

As far as an at-grade intersection, it's basically an intersection in which all the participating networks are on the same level, as opposed to a grade-separated interchange.

Kevin (BigSlark): Hey, great to see you back around!  Thanks for the kind words, and I'll certainly try. ;)

Casper (caspervg): I'm away for two weeks and you show off another beautiful city. It's always fun to see the new developments for the NAM, some wonderful teaser (and do I see T21'ed stop signs on the road-RHW at-grade intersection...?)  Roll Eyes

Welcome back, and thanks for the kind words!  Those are indeed T21-ed stop signs there, too. ;)

bat: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and there will definitely be some more here.

Quesh: Thanks for the compliments!  Hope you enjoy this update.

Eric (EDGE4194): I finally figured out how to do that railroad indicator as well--it hit me while I was making RHW textures awhile ago.  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the map, and rest assured, TDOT's at the ready.

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the kind words!  I hope you enjoy the new update!

Jon (bakerton): Thanks--I appreciate the compliments!  :)  I wouldn't mind living there myself, either, but I'm probably biased. ::) :D 

Allan (allan_kuan1992): That's an interesting suggestion--I hadn't actually thought of that, and I kinda like it.  Of course, there will actually be a nother road coming in on the other side, too, as you'll see on this update.

Daniel (Shadow Assassin): Thanks!  And I agree about the bridge.  It hasn't been fixed as of yet, but they're still going to be messing around with Highway 94 for some time to come.

Pat: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the new mod usage there--and an accurate guess on which ones, too! :)  Hope you like what TDOT has planned.

David (dmscopio): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the suburbs there--there will be plenty more of them, too. :)

________________________________________________________________

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)

Highway 33 Realignment, Indus Way to Richland Lane, Los Endos

This project will realign Highway 33 in the City of Los Endos between Indus Way and Richland Lane on a perfectly straight alignment, eliminating many sharp corners.  In addition, the junction of Highway 33 with the Desert Lakes Highway, Highway 94, will be upgraded from an at-grade intersection to a grade-separated diamond/parclo hybrid interchange.

When finished, Highway 33 will be routed down a newly constructed extension of East 18th Street, with five travel lanes.  Essex Drive, part of the existing Highway 33 alignment, will be extended to meet with the new 18th Street alignment at a four-way intersection, meeting up with Waverly Drive.

Map of Los Endos before the realignment
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map-old.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map-old.png)

Los Endos Boulevard at the future 18th Street intersection (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-1.jpg)

The south end of the project, the intersection of 18th, University and Indus. (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-2.jpg)

The north end of the project, where 33 becomes the Crater Highway, near Richland Lane. (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-3.jpg)

The start of work on the Essex Drive extension at 15th Street (looking west).  TDOT and Los Endos value the idea of having walkways throughout the city, so a new trail is being built just west of the new 18th Street extension.  In order to improve pedestrian safety and minimize any traffic congestion caused by having an at-grade pedestrian crosswalk, pedestrian bridges are being built over important routes, like Essex, Milvedo Drive and Los Endos Boulevard. (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-6.jpg)

Waverly Drive at the site of the Essex extension and future new intersection.  This segment of Waverly will be renamed Essex Drive, to aid in emergency response. (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-9.jpg)

The north portion of 18th Street has been built and connected into Crater Highway at Richland, and a new overpass has been built over Highway 94.  The old alignment is still in use, however, to allow for access between Highways 33 and 94 while the new interchange is being built. (both looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-5.jpg)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-8.jpg)

The new ramps to and from the new alignment are built, and connect into the Richland Lane intersection.  We'll be looking at more of the interchange and improvements to Highway 94 next time. (looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-13.jpg)

The new 18th/Los Endos intersection (looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-11.jpg)

The extended Essex Drive and new 18th/Essex intersection (looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-10.jpg)

A section of 18th south of Los Endos Boulevard (looking west)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u36-12.jpg)

And finally, a map showing the new alignment.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/losendos-21-map.png)

I'll be back with more pics of the 94/33 interchange next time.  Much more construction to come . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 35--8/21/2008--Introducing the City of Los Endos)
Post by: art128 on August 28, 2008, 01:39:25 AM
very nice update of the development  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: Sheep49 on August 28, 2008, 01:58:33 AM
Nice city you have there!
It's very well planned, I have to say. &apls

I'll definitely keep an eye on this one  ;)
Piotr
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: CasperVg on August 28, 2008, 02:02:52 AM
Looks very nice, this update actually reminded me of the existence of pedestrian overpasses in the NAM. The working crew has some work to do, it seems  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: JoeST on August 28, 2008, 02:49:07 AM
its still looking good, nnot surprising :p

tho the pedestrian bridges look a bit out of place, they are too tall imo

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: bat on August 28, 2008, 08:24:44 AM
Like always - Great work on your newest update! And wonderful pictures of your city... Also the map looks nice... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: Jmouse on August 28, 2008, 01:07:29 PM
When I looked at the first map, I tried to figure out how the realignment could be done and saw two possibilities. I guessed the wrong one! :D Not surprising, though - among friends I'm known for pursuing the most difficult approach to any project. Your way was by far the more efficient, and at least I can follow along now with some understanding of how and why things are done.

The pedestrian bridges are a great idea. We used to have one near the community college where students had to cross a busy highway. I can think of many other situations where one would be warranted, but with RL budgets being what they are, a ped bridge is likely to be considered an expensive luxury.

I wonder about the intersection by the water tower in the next-to-last photo. Wouldn't it be better if the two streets lined up to form a straight cross street? Doing so would beg the question of whether to tear down some pretty houses or move the water tower, though. Once again, just curious.

Very interesting and well-done update, Alex. Again!

Later...

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: j-dub on August 28, 2008, 04:04:07 PM
Great idea building a bridge by that university, funny though, I approached the university by doing that as well, except over the avenue too. Good thing you left the land there for when widening calls.
Just this year, they finally build a ped bridge on the side of the city where I live, I always dreamed there would be one there, but when it came true, I thought it was expensive, and out of place, but it got a lot of bike traffic, so kids can cross a 5 lane  50mph road without worring about getting hit by a freight truck. There is a lot of traffic there, I don't know whats wrong with the state, they refuse to use stoplights over that part of the highway. The existing ped bridge in my city, on the far side connects a juvenile correctional facility to a fun center across the street. Thats something that this game should be capable of. Don't get any ideas. Where there are other ped bridges spread across the surrounding communities, its always long ramps and no elevators up those. Which brings me to the question, would you possibly use a 3 tile ramp to cross networks?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on August 28, 2008, 06:59:54 PM
Close enough...  :D

I've been messing around with some of the NHP maps lately too... they're really good!
I did.
v.21 I assume?


Are you seriously not using the road turning lanes? Wow. I thought surely you would be.

Some more nice realignment shots. As usual, have to like how you stage it all for the pictures.
And nice use of the NAM Pedestrian bridges.

The RHW2 texture looks really good there, but one question: Would it be possible to adjust the splitter's texture to have the two yellow lines meet, instead of looking like they transition to a regular road? I just think that might look better, but if it's done in RL, by all means do it.

What's up with the TLA-5/Road intersection textures? They look like the actual intersection texture hasn't been completed yet for the TLA-5, and the road doesn't seem to connect properly. I assume it's just a work-in-progress?

Waiting for more on the interchange...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 28, 2008, 08:30:59 PM
you didn't show us the whole new interchange $%Grinno$%

nice work anyways :)

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: jplumbley on August 28, 2008, 11:40:52 PM
Quote from: deathtopumpkins on August 28, 2008, 06:59:54 PM
Close enough...  :D

I've been messing around with some of the NHP maps lately too... they're really good!
I did.
v.21 I assume?

Thanks...  We tried as a team hehe.

QuoteAre you seriously not using the road turning lanes? Wow. I thought surely you would be.

I am pretty sure Alex is using one of the alpha versions of my newly rewritten Turning Lanes Plugin.  TLA-5 is not compatible with the existing one and it will not be made compatible due to the way the two mods were created.  The new Turning Lanes Plugin I have written is much more flexible and will be fully compatible with the TLA-5 due to the fact that they are being worked on together with much better implementation than had been used before.

QuoteWhat's up with the TLA-5/Road intersection textures? They look like the actual intersection texture hasn't been completed yet for the TLA-5, and the road doesn't seem to connect properly. I assume it's just a work-in-progress?

You would be correct.  The TLA-5 is still underdevelopement, not just from the RULs, pathing etc, but also the textures.  That specific texture came from an earlier version where there were now left turn lanes and were just used for testing purposes.  The texture now is required to be updated to fit the new turn lanes.  Since, Alex is one of those lucky special people he has access to test files that the public community doesnt have access to and as you can see the state of these files is not at a release candidate stage.  If they were released, many people would complain about sloppy textures, sloppy modding, etc, so the goal is to release something that is complete rather than partially complete.




YAY for Alex playing with his toys!  Looking good.  Still Im amazed that you used the SAM Dirt textures in that fashion to highlight construction, I never would have thought of that.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: threestooges on August 29, 2008, 12:05:40 AM
Always on the cutting edge and always developing. The realignment looks great. The new path seems much better, and much more 'driver-friendly'. I've been on a few highways that find themselves winding through towns and, while that can be neat, it makes for an... interesting drive... particularly when there's a traffic light at each intersection and none of them seem to be properly timed. They could benefit from the Tarkus Touch. The pedestrian overpasses are a good use of an underused feature and look good the way you have used them. I agree with Joan about the realignment of 15th street by the water tower. There is an intersection like that in Santa Barbara (on Cliff Dr. and Mesa Ln/Flora Vista Dr.) where they timed the lights well, but it is an awkward setup at times (I wish I still lived there so I could find/take a picture of it).  As for the police station, I completely missed it last time, thanks for pointing it out. The TLA-5s seem to be coming together nicely and, in general, all the developments you've been working on look pretty darn good. Take it easy, and I'll keep an eye out for the next update.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: Haljackey on August 29, 2008, 11:29:58 AM
Hey, nice update!

The ped. overpass was the most interesting part of this update for me.  You just don't see enough of that! 
-Again, nice construction pics and good use of the TLA.  You are teasing us a bit too much...   :P

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: Meastro444 on August 29, 2008, 01:34:02 PM
very nice update Tarkus!

makes me itching for the all those Transit mods to be released!! ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 36--8/28/2008--Los Endos, Highway 33 Realignment)
Post by: paroch on August 29, 2008, 02:10:51 PM
Hi Alex,

It's interesting to see a redevelopment step by step and hear your thoughts and reasoning.  I know all to often I just whack a nice shiny new road into place with little thought of the impact it would have in an RL situation.

And living in Essex myself I'll be interested to see how Essex Drive turns out  :)

Paul
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: Tarkus on August 29, 2008, 11:50:23 PM
Well, as I promised last time, I'm back with a small update with a few pics of the Highway 94/18th Avenue (Highway 33) interchange.

And also, Tarkusian Cities hit a milestone earlier this evening:

[img]http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/2106/20000viewsio2.jpg[/img]

20,000 views . . . well, 20,001 in that pic.  And it looks like none other than our friend Justin (jgehrts) rolled the odometer.  So, a thank you and congratulations are in order to him.  And to all the rest of you who made the other 19,999 views before that.  So, needless to say, I'm shocked and elated--and I don't know what all I did to deserve all those views, either.  :D 

Now to reply to some of your comments:

Arthur (art128):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Piotr (sheep49):  Thanks, I am pleased to hear you like Los Endos, and hope you enjoy this latest update. :)

Casper (caspervg):  I had almost forgotten about the NAM Pedestrian Overpasses, too.  They're really not used all that often.  Thanks for the kind words!  And yes, the construction crews will have no problems keeping busy.  ;)

JoeST:  Thanks for the compliments!  The main reason I ended up going with the NAM overpasses there was because I wanted to steer clear of TE Lots (hanging out with Jason has rubbed off on me :D).  And they're functional, too, which means if the BSC Parks are ever turned into a draggable transit network (an idea that we've been throwing around for awhile ;), they'll be able to take actual pedestrian traffic. 

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the city and the map. :)

Joan (Jmouse): Well, it sounds like you were close, though.  :D  I kind of had anticipated that there would need to be some sort of big arterial road in that area eventually, so I tried to plan around it.  And thus far, it's worked out quite well, though it may actually be due for a further upgrade at some point.

I'm glad you liked the pedestrian bridge idea, too.  I've always been a big fan of them, and I think a lot of transit planners forget that pedestrian routes can get congested, and sometimes, grade-separation (bridge or tunnel) rather than a crosswalk is the best solution.  Certainly, they are a bit pricy, but still, I think they're a better investment than a lot of other "luxury" transport items they tend to build around these parts.

The Essex/15th intersection is an interesting quandry indeed.  There still is room there to fix it without demolishing anything, so perhaps combining the intersections in some way is in order.  Fortunately, now that Highway 33 has been re-routed onto 18th, that intersection doesn't get nearly the traffic load it once did.

Thanks for the kind words, and most of all, for the feedback--I always enjoy your posts.

j-dub:  Thanks, I'm glad you liked the pedestrian bridge idea as well, and widening will indeed be coming to Los Endos Boulevard quite soon.  That's an interesting idea, too, about having a longer ramp.  I kind of like that idea more than the elevator.  Perhaps a new puzzle piece will be in order--the Ped Mall/Path system needs some new additions, methinks.

deathtopumpkins:  I'm glad you enjoyed the realignment, and those may indeed be coming to Version 21.  I did actually signalize one of the MIS/Road intersections, too, while I was at it--it may make an appearance in a future update. ;)

As Jason (jplumbley) pointed out, I am using his new RTL Plugin--I actually have to in order to use the TLAs, since the old one conflicts with them.  With the splitter texture there, well, that is generally how I've seen it in Oregon, and . . . I've actually been toying with the idea of doing a double-yellow-line version of the RHW-2 textures as an alternate to the dashed, too.  And the TLA-5 textures are indeed just really rough.  They seriously need some work. :D 

Hope you enjoy the interchange. :)

Allan (allan_kuan1992):  Hehe . . . but I did this time. :P  Glad you liked the rest of the update, though!

Jason (jplumbley):  Thanks for the response to the response, there! :D  And I'm glad you liked how I used SAM Set 3 there.  That idea just kind of hit me out of the blue one day--it's actually a big time saver compared to plopping dozens of those dirt lots all over the place in most situations.

Matt (threestooges):  Thank you for the kind words, my friend.  I'm glad you liked the ped overpass usage, and the new route of the highway--I got lucky with that one.  I  And I know all too well what you mean about the circuitous routes.  Sometimes they're kind of fun, but other times, they're tiring.  I may have to look up that intersection you mentioned on Google Maps, too--I always like comparing RL reference points if possible.

Haljackey:  Thanks, I'm glad it was to your liking, and the NAM Ped Overpasses are just about the most forgotten feature out there.  I'm thinking that expanding them may be a future project--of course, once I get all this other fun stuff I'm working on done. :D  And yes, I can't help but tease.  I should at least get some other new mods ready, so I'm not teasing you all with the same things over and over.  :P

Meastro444:  Thank you for the compliments, and it makes me want to get them finished up here at some point, too. ;D

Paul (paroch):  I'm thrilled that you enjoyed seeing the process end of things--I almost tend to think about that stuff a little too much. Might be hereditary, from having an engineer father. :D  And I'm glad you liked the road name there, too--you'll definitely get to see Essex Drive some more in future updates. :)

_________________________________________________________________
Now onto the interchange and improvements to Highway 94:

Highway 94 with the new ramps just west of the new interchange.  The closed road there with the bulldozers is 15th Street, the former alignment of Highway 33 (looking west).  As you can see, it's been closed and can no longer access the highway.  The north segment will be demolished completely, whereas the southern portion will simply dead-end.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u37-1.jpg)

Richland Lane at Highway 33, looking west toward the Highway 94 onramp.  The dirt there on the corner is the site of one of only two "structural casualties" of the realignment project.  As you can also see, work is beginning on widening Richland at this intersection. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u37-2.jpg)

This is at the east side of the interchange. (looking west)

As you can see, the south half of it (to/from Eastbound 94) is a diamond, while the north part (to/from Westbound 94) is a parclo that connects onto Richland Lane.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u37-3.jpg)

Landscaping done on Highway 94 between the interchange and the bridge (looking west).  The areas just to either side of the highway are now residential developments, so soundwalls were constructed.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u37-4.jpg)

And this one just for Daniel (SA) . . . TDOT fixed the bridge approaches. (looking north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u37-5.jpg)

You'll also notice a walkway there--it will eventually cross the highway here.  (Note to self: make Elevated Ped Walkway-over-RHW-4 puzzle pieces.)

I'll be back with more stuff from around Los Endos next time.  There's plenty more construction to come. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: CasperVg on August 30, 2008, 12:04:57 AM
And again, this is a splendid update. The last picture is really good, I never thought about making a (stretch) of RHW run on a slightly different height, but it really looks good. I like the teasing you've done (again) in this update  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: art128 on August 30, 2008, 12:34:45 AM
nice development pf the RHW  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on August 30, 2008, 01:08:38 AM
nice showcase of the RHW.

Now... can you ship them for our usage as well? :D

Anyway, nice work, and I hope to see more shots of the ever-growing RHW network soon. =)

EDIT:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg222.imageshack.us%2Fimg222%2F2799%2Fu3613bj8.jpg&hash=692c9081f634c1ffcbbda5450db145376e6db662)

We got a ditch in the ramp to the highway there. $%Grinno$%

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg83.imageshack.us%2Fimg83%2F3341%2Fu3611iq8.jpg&hash=fd415c7d2cd88274426f9f60646af9c77b816884)

Someome needs to properly grade that... the left side seems too steep...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg83.imageshack.us%2Fimg83%2F3599%2Fu368ob2.jpg&hash=7a5d2882db7db36de81aae62acdeb46e0d955053)

and the right side of the ramp here seems steep too due to the slope...

Just me being "perfectionist" today :P

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: JoeST on August 30, 2008, 02:15:55 AM
Yeah I see where you go with the reason for the pedestrian bridges, but they are just too high, and the towers look silly imo.

of course, it still looks great and I cant wait for more, like always :) its just me being obsessive :p

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: MandelSoft on August 30, 2008, 04:12:33 AM
Nice to see the reconstruction of a highway interchange. Bravo!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: EDGE4194 on August 30, 2008, 07:41:31 AM
Alex- Excellent update  &apls Nice job on the realignment and the new intersection (what exactly is the tax rate in Los Endos anyway?). 
Alright- what's the next project?  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: bat on August 30, 2008, 08:52:18 AM
Wonderful new update there! And great new work on the RHW!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on August 30, 2008, 09:26:59 AM
Congrats on 20,000 views.

Thanks for both of your answers, Alex and Jason.

I noticed it off of the road x road intersections. Are the turning lanes for roads no longer, or are they just not done yet (because as Jason said, it's an alpha version)?

Yeah, I guess it makes since since the dashed yellow line is, essentially the continuation of a double yellow line, so you're right, leave it. I really wish that, instead of creating an alternate texture set with double yellow lines, it were possible to get them to automatically show up in front of intersections, and other appropriate places. Would this actually be possible using the same means as the RTL plugin, as it would be essentially the same thing.
OK, back on topic.

That interchange is nice!  :thumbsup: And do I see MIS without even a little sliver of sidewalk, just grass, touching the construction lots at the end of the road?

The new bridge approaches look good too!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: Pat on August 30, 2008, 03:31:37 PM
Alex WoW I could have sworn I left a comment after the last update, geeessh Im getting old here at almost 30 eeks!!!! Both great updates and I love the RHW Bridge and oooh when will it be out lol, I know I know Im just kidding around!!! Cant wait to see what more TDOT does around here....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: Simpson on September 02, 2008, 02:24:23 AM
Hi Tarkus  :)
Your new update is very good as well  :thumbsup:
The  highway are so beautiful and very réalistic. And also your city is looking superb my friend
I'm until forward to the next update Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: Haljackey on September 02, 2008, 08:36:40 AM
A nice showcase of the new RHW.  I am also liking the use of Deadwood highway sound walls (the same ones I use  ;), its a great set!) and the verity of ped paths in the area.

When you first said that you were going to make the ped path cross the RHW, I was thinking why you would make such a dangerous crossing.  Now that I know ped mall-over RHW is in the works, I retract that statement.   :P

Oh and congrats on hitting 20,000 views too!  That's quite a milestone!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37--8/29/2008--Highway 94/33 Interchange)
Post by: Jmouse on September 02, 2008, 12:48:15 PM
I'm trying to mentally compare this layout to Jonesboro where the highway to Memphis bisects the city from west to east. So I'm wondering how the loss of 15th St. will effect the flow of north/south traffic. We seem to have enough overpasses and several main arteries which handle the N/S traffic quite well, though. In fact, I can get around better in this city of 65,000+ than I did in the little town of 24,000 I moved from!

Anyway, looking once again at your most recent map, there appears to be quite a large gap between the Hwy. 33 and the 0th St. overpasses. Any chance of widening E. 9th or 10th St. and connecting it to E. Water Way north of 94? Guess that would put a strain on some quiet neighborhoods, though. Best to leave well enough alone I guess, but I admit you do have me on the lookout for promising projects!

Very interesting update, Alex, and always a pleasure to see what's next on the construction menu!

Later...

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37.5--9/12/2008--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Tarkus on September 12, 2008, 04:21:03 PM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities is still alive . . . I'll be back with a larger update here in a bit, but to hold you over, here's a little larger map of Los Endos, expanding out to the city tile to the east of the main one, which you'll be seeing a lot more of soon.

[URL=http://img524.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendosfullmaphj4.png][IMG]http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/867/losendosfullmaphj4.th.png[/img][/URL]

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37.5--9/12/2008--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Simpson on September 14, 2008, 01:49:40 PM
Great map my friend
I'm looking forward to the next update ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37.5--9/12/2008--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: art128 on September 15, 2008, 08:40:37 AM
I can't see the map :/
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37.5--9/12/2008--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: thundercrack83 on September 15, 2008, 11:09:23 AM
I always enjoy seeing a new map here, Alex. An excellent job as always with the Los Endos one!

Keep up the good work, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 37.5--9/12/2008--Expanded Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: metarvo on September 15, 2008, 03:56:05 PM
I've read Tarkusian Cities from cover to cover, and I must say that I am pleased with what I see, Alex.  Now I know where I can go to get my highway news, when I am not monitoring the progress of the RHW or NWM ::) .
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: Tarkus on September 25, 2008, 02:02:27 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back (after a lengthy fight with ImageShack ::)) with another road widening project in the City of Los Endos, with the city's eponymous thoroughfare.

A few little mapping loose ends to take care of . . . I decided to measure the "lengthwise" (East-West) oriented city blocks (flowing with the numbered/lettered streets), and found that they were generally about 258 feet (~78.7m).  I set up a "block grid" in Inkscape, and I found out that some of the numbered streets around the east side had some discrepancies with the numberings and didn't fit in the block plan. 

As a result, you'll now notice that the North-South thoroughfare near Milvedo--33rd Street, is now actually 31st Street.  Similar things happened farther east, though in the other direction--46th is now 50th, 51st is now 57th, and 57th is now 65th. 

Also, for ease of addresses, the city decided to go from a simple East/West division (at 0th Street) to a quadrant setup--NE/NW/SE/SW.  The North/South division now occurs at Los Endos Blvd--except on the east edge, where it curves away from the "baseline" and goes into the "southeast" quadrant.

So, a further map, which will show the results of some of the developments in this update.  Things will be changing quite drastically soon, particularly on the east end. 

[URL=http://img265.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos09252008jq3.png][IMG]http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/9792/losendos09252008jq3.th.png[/img][/URL][URL=http://g.imageshack.us/thpix.php][IMG]http://img265.imageshack.us/images/thpix.gif[/img][/URL]

____________________________________________________________________
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)

Los Endos Boulevard Widening, D Street to Hammerhead Lake Bridge

This project will widen Los Endos Boulevard between West D Street and the bridge over Hammerhead Lake (just east of East 31st Street).  Los Endos Boulevard is currently a primary surface arterial which has 3 travel lanes from D Street to University Way, and 2 travel lanes east of University.  When completed, it will feature 4-5 travel lanes along its length.

This is the existing intersection at 18th Street (Highway 33) and Los Endos (facing west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-3.jpg)

11th (old Hwy 33) and Los Endos (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-11.jpg)

31st and Los Endos, at the Los Endos Country Club (looking south)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-9.jpg)

Paving near the university
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-12.jpg)

18th and Los Endos after construction
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-14.jpg)

11th and Los Endos after construction
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-13.jpg)

31st and Los Endos after construction
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-1.jpg)

The 0th and Los Endos intersection presents one particularly interesting challenge . . .

0th and Los Endos (looking west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-10.jpg)

At the northwest corner of the intersection sits the iconic Longaberger Building (1 W Los Endos Blvd--upper right corner of the previous pic).  With a straightforward alignment, the Longaberger Building would be directly in the path of the widened Los Endos Blvd.  Accounting for this, TDOT designed an alternative.  Between 6th Street and D Street, Los Endos Boulevard will instead form a One-Way Couplet with SE Paramount Street, which will be extended and upgraded.  Each half of the couplet will be 2 lanes initially, but with the option to upgrade them to 3 lanes at a later date.  This will allow for roughly the same level of traffic capacity, while keeping the local landmark in tact.

Here's the east end of the couplet before construction begins (facing west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-5.jpg)

This is the west end of the project, at D Street--the site of Los Endos' first skyscraper (350 W Los Endos Blvd).  Or I should say, the first of many . . .
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-16.jpg)

A few local homes and the Chuck E. Cheese at 6th and Los Endos had to be taken out to make way for the Paramount Street connection.  Paramount has been partially upgraded east of 5th Street.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-4.jpg)

5th Street was extended through to Paramount, though the alignment is not perfectly straight.  Turn restrictions on the north part of 5th will prevent motorists from doing a "swerve" in the middle of Paramount to get to the southern segment.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-2.jpg)

The east end of the "split" with landscaping complete (looking east)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u38-15.jpg)

Back with more next time . . . probably a little construction, and maybe a closer look at that country club . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: Simpson on September 25, 2008, 03:55:56 AM
Hi Alex
Nice to see an update of you my friend
Your city is looking super, great work  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: art128 on September 25, 2008, 04:02:23 AM
Alex, greatgreatgreat work on this new update  &apls really nice :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: debutterfly on September 25, 2008, 07:37:48 AM
Great work Alex...I love how you tease us all with all of your toys (NWM, RHW, and other goodies). I can't wait to get my hands on some of them. Also wondering how many hours do you spend a week developing your MD?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: metarvo on September 25, 2008, 08:01:04 AM
Quote from: Tarkus on September 25, 2008, 02:02:27 AM
A few local homes and the Chuck E. Cheese at 6th and Los Endos had to be taken out to make way for the Paramount Street connection.  Paramount has been partially upgraded east of 5th Street.

I'm sure some kids are crying their little eyes out over this one... $%Grinno$%.

Another spectacular update, Alex.  The TLA-5 continues to illustrate a shining example of realism, but this can be expected of every element of the NWM.  The OWR-couplet is also a very realistic choice.  I know, since I've seen it used several times in my area.  Keep it up, Alex!

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: Sheep49 on September 25, 2008, 08:15:13 AM
Sorry for not commenting lately. Was kinda busy ;)

Great update, my friend. I really like it! If only they were building so much great roads in my hometown... ;)

Keep up the good work!
Piotr :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: bat on September 25, 2008, 08:40:44 AM
Another beautiful update there with excellent pictures! Great work! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: Haljackey on September 25, 2008, 09:08:34 AM
Hey Alex,
-Another wonderful update!  Interesting use of the NWM components to enhance your city's road networks! 
-There was something about the road intersections in the pics that I saw though.  Just before a road intersection, you converted a standard road to a NWM-3 (right?) just before the intersection with another road.  I am aware that the project is still in development, but do you have to do this in order to make an intersection with the NWM or could you simply drag a road up to the intersection without converting it? 

Anyways great update and I look forward to more!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: wes.janson on September 25, 2008, 06:34:32 PM
I love those longer road turning lanes. A vast improvement over the existing ones. Amazing how such a small detail can do so much.

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: Pat on September 25, 2008, 07:28:02 PM
Alex great update here and I just love how TDOT works!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on September 26, 2008, 03:58:26 AM
Ahhh... I love those intersections with the TLA-3! The turn lanes look great!

One intereseting thing I noticed though:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg255.imageshack.us%2Fimg255%2F237%2Fu389wf7.jpg&hash=70077af489433008d1d6c0349bbc836b0664911a)
The turn lanes are only on one of the roads! How'd you manage that?

The rest of the widening looks great, especially the OWRs.
Although, at the intersection with Paramount, wouldn't it just be simpler to use an S-curve, so through traffic could still use it?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: JoeST on September 26, 2008, 04:42:37 AM
DTP: that is part of the reworked Right Turn Lane plugin. It is being done by Jason (JPlumbley)

and Tarkus: its looking fantastic as ever :) cant wait for more.

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: warconstruct on September 26, 2008, 10:36:21 AM
All is sublime, the roads and the concept of work is brilliant !
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: thundercrack83 on September 26, 2008, 01:13:50 PM
Fantastic stuff here, Alex, as always!

Like I've said before, I love the way you use the SAM streets to symbolize construction sites, very clever!

Keep up the good work, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: EDGE4194 on September 27, 2008, 09:47:01 AM
 &apls as usual alex, a fantastic update! Your map is getting more and more detailed, but still no parks! I have a traffic suggestion- I think you need to close the section of 5th st between Paramount and Ilmore. it would improve traffic flow, and the traffic from the south (?) can enter Paramount/Los Endos via either 4th or 8th.  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 38--9/25/2008--Los Endos Blvd Widening)
Post by: bakerton on September 27, 2008, 03:34:59 PM
Alex, I just love this MD as I enjoy projects that you show. They just make me want to do some of my own projects and see where it will take me. One word to describe everything is: AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Tarkus on October 03, 2008, 09:22:05 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another construction project . . . an oldie, too, that many longtime TC followers will recognize.

First, though, replies:

David (Simpson):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the latest installment, and hope this one is to your liking, too!

Arthur (art128):  Thank you for the kind words!

debutterfly:  Thanks--and I most certainly enjoy teasing with those toys, too.  :D  As far as how much time I spend developing my MD, each update generally takes me about 3 hours to put together.  

metarvo:  Yes, the kids in Los Endos weren't too happy, but word is that Chuck E. Cheese is already building at least a couple new locations in the area.  (That building grows like a weed in my regions, actually.  :D)  We've got those OWR Couplets all over the place here, too--very common setup in most small and mid-sized towns in Oregon, including here in Eugene.  Glad you enjoyed the update, and thanks for the compliments!

Piotr (sheep49):  Hey, no worries. :)  Glad you enjoyed this latest update, and I know all too well about wanting more and better roads.  (They've been doing a lot of construction around here lately, though I'm not sure how much of it is really "better".)  

bat:  Thanks for the kind words!

Haljackey:  I'm glad you liked the update--thanks!--and that's an interesting question.  If you're referring to the situation with the TLA-3 and the OWRs, the TLA-3/OWR intersections aren't done yet, so I had to do the little conversion there to prevent something really weird-looking from showing up.  It still has its quirks, but knowing just what they are, I can usually avoid them and use it for my own purposes.  I do need to get that one finished, though . . . maybe once RHW Version 21 is a little closer. ;)

wes.janson:  Thanks, I'm happy to hear you like the new TLA-3 turn lane setup--it's nice having them at a little bit more realistic width/length.

Pat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and I'm sure TDOT will be pleased to hear your feedback.  They're always trying to go the extra mile . . . (pun partially intended. ::)) :D

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks for the kind words on the TLA-3 turn lane stuff!  And as Joe mentioned, those turn lanes are indeed the result of jplumbley's new Road Turning Lane Plugin, which I have to use in order to utilize both the NWM and Road Turning Lanes.

That's an interesting suggestion with the 5th/Paramount intersection, too.  TDOT may have to rethink that one.

Joe (JoeST):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and hope this one satisfies your Tarkusian Cities fix. ;)

warconstruct:  Thanks for the compliments, I'm glad the construction was to your liking, and there will (as always) be plenty more in this update.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, my friend--you are too kind.  I'm glad you enjoyed the SAM usage there--it actually makes building the construction sites a bit easier, too, having a draggable tool.  There's a few instances where I still have to go back to a Lot-based solution (i.e. near intersections, to prevent regular commuter access to the "under construction" stuff), but it really comes in handy.

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I'm flattered!  I do still need to add the parks onto the map, along with schools and a few other little landmarks, too--thanks for reminding me. :)  That's also an interesting suggestion with the 5th Street alignment.  I'm definitely going to have to revisit that one and the Essex/15th intersection--perhaps as part of a "viewers' choice" construction update . . .

Jon (bakerton):  Thank you so much for the kind words!  If I've given anyone even the slightest inspiration, it really means a lot to me.   :thumbsup:

___________________________________________________________________________________

Here is Wakeman as we last left it, a few months ago, after the 22nd Avenue Extension project in May, as part of Update 28.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg171.imageshack.us%2Fimg171%2F6526%2Fagmap34wakeman05012008uj7.th.png&hash=71f8a149ce03b51cc9a913a50b00c698dabbcd0d) (http://img171.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakeman05012008uj7.png)

And as the title confirms, we'll be going back and looking at the infamous "Mystery Highway" project (last seen Update 6), which had been proposed as a rather expensive freeway alignment of Highway 24 on the north side of town, involving about 5-6 miles of bridges over the Cascadia River.

TDOT and the City of Wakeman have had a little bit of a change of plans, though.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg182.imageshack.us%2Fimg182%2F2742%2Fcityofwakemanlogoud7.jpg&hash=4fe84601dc7398d03678d90adc7b34bd5f89366f)
North Wakeman Corridor Project

The North Wakeman Corridor Project, a joint project between TDOT and the City of Wakeman, has been aimed at examining the possibilities for a new expressway or freeway link on the north side of Wakeman, near the Cascadia State University campus.  The initial alignment option that had been planned included building a freeway on the north banks of the Cascadia River, which would the river upon reaching Wakeman City Limits near the Wakeman Boulevard (Highway 24)/Topographic Drive (Highway 89) intersection (not pictured on maps, but approximately 1 mile west).  This crossing would include approximately five miles of bridges, traversing between Highway 89 in the west and Highway 28 to the east, near Belew Mountain.  Because of its massive scope and the fact that the alignment would be elevated for much of its length, residents had jokingly nicknamed it the "Interstellar Overdrive".  This plan is detailed in the map below:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg149.imageshack.us%2Fimg149%2F1018%2Fmysteryhighwayalignmentzq8.th.png&hash=ce867356142258ad4dfd6308540ecd4f141cc08d) (http://img149.imageshack.us/my.php?image=mysteryhighwayalignmentzq8.png)

However, further study on the Wakeman area and its traffic patterns, as well as a cost analysis, have resulted in alternative option, Alternative A.  Instead of a freeway realignment of Highway 24 with a series of costly bridges (estimated at $16 billion), Alternative A involves the construction of only 1.5 miles of bridges as part of an expressway, which will serve as a new alignment for Highway 89.  This expressway will connect on the south end to South 11th Avenue near the CSU campus, and on the north end to the existing Topographic Drive alignment.

TDOT and the City of Wakeman do, however, believe that an east-west freeway is still needed to accommodate future growth, and allow for a unified system throughout the region.  To this effect, work is beginning on a South Wakeman Corridor project (which will be featured in the next update)

The initial start of the 11th Avenue connection (looking north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg296.imageshack.us%2Fimg296%2F630%2Fu391sl8.jpg&hash=1a91d0ca65080184fc59fcb06ad21dfa60b639a6)

The east end of the new bridge (looking north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg49.imageshack.us%2Fimg49%2F9757%2Fu392ux7.jpg&hash=f5385591f49bbd3eacbcd770adf47c45523e4564)

Existing Topographic Drive, going under the rail bridge (facing west)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg407.imageshack.us%2Fimg407%2F7446%2Fu393cj0.jpg&hash=85e03ed9fc4f1069dd05e8b8f3a0b4a7f9c35dc4)

The tunnel was demolished, as it will not be needed after the completion of the project. (facing west)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg395.imageshack.us%2Fimg395%2F6140%2Fu394kx1.jpg&hash=a406306b2abe51625ffe571ac12cbbbc1463e69f)

The first part of the bridge constructed (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg408.imageshack.us%2Fimg408%2F8903%2Fu395de7.jpg&hash=2fbba2faf088bf78ed26dea2241dff89ae87dde1)

The middle landfall on Floyd Island, between the two spans (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg401.imageshack.us%2Fimg401%2F5619%2Fu396xn6.jpg&hash=f99eb0b6b1f09152f3e72e00bed8898d70cf2ee0)

The bridges are now open to traffic.  Where the tunnel used to be, the new Highway 89 expressway jogs over (facing west)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg371.imageshack.us%2Fimg371%2F6119%2Fu397hf6.jpg&hash=ce53b3e1302f6e40ff7ec9525231b113fd8f10de)

The 11th Avenue connection (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg360.imageshack.us%2Fimg360%2F5825%2Fu398mu8.jpg&hash=3e32e9e114d8807ecaf9c88f2e04ce1891c0be17)

The original Topographic Drive alignment of Highway 89 where it now connects in to the new alignment. (facing west)  TDOT has decided to keep this section of road within the highway system, as Highway 189.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg114.imageshack.us%2Fimg114%2F6620%2Fu399iz0.jpg&hash=1bc23fd57b4c2d06bc5a3f4de555e3e6285df219)

An overview of Wakeman with the new Interstallar Overdrive/Highway 89 alignment complete.  Upon completion, the bridge, appropriately enough, was named the Richard Wright Memorial Bridge.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg378.imageshack.us%2Fimg378%2F4999%2Fu3910rm3.jpg&hash=ffe432e589018ebdd866971e4b4053a208038485)

Here's a map of the finished product.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg220.imageshack.us%2Fimg220%2F1918%2Fagmap34wakeman10012008yy8.th.png&hash=71ce968efa61d5af3b977045fc37fc1e622e4932) (http://img220.imageshack.us/my.php?image=agmap34wakeman10012008yy8.png)(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg220.imageshack.us%2Fimages%2Fthpix.gif&hash=980afbf1c91cc1c6a144e7e7fc517e78d98d8ec6) (http://g.imageshack.us/thpix.php)

Back with more next time . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: papab2000 on October 03, 2008, 10:05:43 PM
Nice job  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Pat on October 03, 2008, 10:32:14 PM
LoL Alex I see you are in a Punting mood lately hehehee.... Anywho WOW!!! Talk about a grand improvement here for sure, with the removal of the road by the rail bridge I think that would open up a chance for devolpment in the area!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: dedgren on October 03, 2008, 10:47:11 PM
Heh!  Interstellar Overdrive...

...Set the controls for the heart of the sun!  Careful with that axe, Eugene!  Don't want to miss Alan's psychedelic breakfast...

Fine, fine work, Alex.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Haljackey on October 03, 2008, 11:27:39 PM
Nice work Alex, love the consruction pics!

And thanks for getting back to me about the TLA!  I was asking if there was a road/TLA-3 intersection because every time you had a road intersect with a TLA=3, you converted it to a TLA-3 as well.

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 03, 2008, 11:56:51 PM
Some more outstanding stuff here, Alex! But, I'm used to this kind of thing when I stop in here!

Quote
Because of its massive scope and the fact that the alignment would be elevated for much of its length, residents had jokingly nicknamed it the "Interstellar Overdrive".

Nice to see Barrett-era Floyd reference here! If there's a "Gnome Named Grimble-Gromble Parkway," though, that could spell trouble!

I'll be looking forward to whatever you'll have next for us!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Sheep49 on October 04, 2008, 12:15:39 AM
YEY! Pink Floyd references! ;D

I thought there was going to be Nobody Home here, but I was wrong! You must have taken all your Time and Money to make this update. It just Sets The Controls For The Heart Of The Sun! Your whole MD is a real Saucerful Of Secrets! I can see the Echoes of the future realeses here! Oh, Richard, how I Wish You Were Here! You would really love this one! :P

LOL, anyway, great work! Can't wait for More, though! ;D

Shine On You Crazy Diamond, Alex! ;)
Piotr

Heh, who will put more Pink Floyd references in one post? :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: JoeST on October 04, 2008, 12:44:01 AM
That was a rather fantastic update :)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: bat on October 04, 2008, 01:49:35 AM
Like always a really nice update there, Tarkus! Wonderful work! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Simpson on October 04, 2008, 01:49:43 AM
Hi Alex  :)
Another fine update here
Your city is looking super and so réalistic. I love the géneral pic  :o
And also a super transport network  &apls
I'm looking forward to the next update, my friend  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: art128 on October 04, 2008, 02:19:19 AM
nice update my friend  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: threestooges on October 04, 2008, 02:24:18 AM
Way to anticipate the infrastructural needs of the growing community. Also, nice work with the large 90 degree avenue curves. A couple of the pics (the middle landfill of the bridges and the one after it that says it shows traffic on the bridges seem to be out of commission for me at the moment, but all in all a very well done update as usual.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on October 04, 2008, 10:19:34 AM
Nice! Those new bridges look great, and that looks like a nice, smooth highway. :thumbsup:

So the next update's going to be a new freeway, eh? That should be a good one!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: metarvo on October 04, 2008, 10:48:27 AM
I just like how this construction unfolds, Alex. :D  This step-by-step presentation of the Richard Wright Memorial Bridge's construction is a fine read. :thumbsup: Of course, I noticed that you are making use of the FAR, and I thought I saw a TLA-5 in the 11th Avenue Connection pic.  As always, keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: Jmouse on October 04, 2008, 01:20:31 PM
Excellent construction pictures, and another well-planned, easy-to-follow project. The overview was especially interesting to see and compare with the map.

It's always fascinating to see the changes you make. The "Before" map always looks perfectly OK to me, but the the "After" looks so much better and makes more sense. I don't know how you do it, but it's a pleasure to watch!

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: EDGE4194 on October 05, 2008, 08:01:09 AM
 &apls another excellent update alex. I especially liked the last pic and realized you don't show too many overview shots. I would love to see more of the area so I can compare it to your great map.  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: sebes on October 05, 2008, 09:01:31 AM
I agree with the others here: you do a fantastic job here Alex. The constructions sites before and after are so interesting to watch, and your maps: I must confess... I missed them during my vacation  :D

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: dragonshardz on October 06, 2008, 06:24:38 PM
Alex: The update looks great and it's awesome to finally see that highway finished(?)!

~~Dragonshardz~~
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 39--10/3/2008--Wakeman "Mystery Highway" Complete?)
Post by: MandelSoft on October 07, 2008, 07:07:02 AM
Nice update, Tarkus
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Tarkus on October 24, 2008, 04:41:22 PM
Hi everyone-

Finally back with a small update showing more of the South Wakeman Corridor Project, mentioned last time.  In addition, you'll find out a little more about how TDOT works, examining its procedures on numbering highways and setting speed limits.

But first, replies:

Rich (papab2000):  Thanks!

Pat:  Yes, I'm all about kicking footballs short distances.  :D  (Actually, I'm not terribly athletic . . .)  I couldn't resist all those Pink Floyd puns, though.  And yes, that does open up that area for development--there's not too much room there, but it's still prime Industrial land.  Thanks for stopping by!

David (dedgren):  I figured you'd get a kick out of the road name.  Thanks for the kind words!

Haljackey:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the construction, and as far as the TLAs go, the TLA-3/Road intersections auto-convert right now . . . need some more RULs.  ;)

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the compliments, and I figured the Barrett-era reference was appropriate, in light of the propensity that the City of Wakeman has had for naming streets after Pink Floyd band members, and prog musicians in general.  Hope you enjoy the latest installment!

Piotr (Sheep49):  Hehe . . . I figured you'd enjoy the references.  Always good to see more Floyd fans around--that's probably the biggest string of references I've seen there. :D  Thanks for the kind words on the update!

JoeST:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! :)

bat:  Thanks for the compliments!

David (Simpson):  Thanks, I'm glad you liked the overview shot there (I need to show more of those ;)), and the construction.  Much more of that to come, as you might imagine.

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the kind words!

Matt (threestooges):  Thanks!  I've always been a big user of the Avenue 90-Curves since Chrno first came up with them (haven't seen him in ages--rather talented transit modder), and I try to work them in where ever I can.  And thanks for catching the pic issue--seems I screwed up a URL somewhere. ::)

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks, glad you liked the bridges, and yes, indeed there will be a freeway . . . well, the start of one, anyways.  And a lot more freeways after it.  Finally getting enough stuff added into the RHW that I can implement all these crazy ideas I have. ::)

metarvo:  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad it was an enjoyable read for you, and yes, indeed, there was some FAR in there (the new Topographic Drive alignment), and that stretch of 11th Avenue there is probably the first TLA-5 I put into a "real" city of mine.

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the project and found it easy to follow--thanks again for your suggestion awhile back on having more overview pics, too.  I do think it does help tie everything together.  I'm not entirely sure how I do it myself, either.  I can't help but try to tear up my roads time and time again. :D

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you liked the overview shot . . . I really should include more of them.

sebes:  Thank you for the compliments, and I'm glad you find the construction interesting--I myself can't help but seek it out in RL.  It's always absolutely fascinated me.  And I hope your vacation was enjoyable, in spite of the Tarkusian Cities withdrawals. :D

dragonshardz:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and well . . . that highway is pretty much finished now, though as I've hinted, there still will be "something" going on, on the other side of town (which you'll see a hint of this time). ;)

Maarten (mrtnrln):  Thanks for the kind words! :)

________________________________________________________________________________________
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)

South Wakeman Corridor Project

The purpose of this project is to construct a new limited-access freeway alignment on the south banks of the Cascadia River, running through the Cascadia Gorge, in order to better link up this area, including the City of Wakeman, to the surrounding parts of the region.  The southern alignment was deemed to be a more cost-effective option, due to the fact the route would only have to cross the Bruford River, rather than a large stretch of both the Cascadia and Bruford Rivers at their convergence, just northeast of Wakeman.  Wakeman is also expected to expand to the south, so a southern alignment will better accomodate future growth, though there is an option for the construction of an eventual north-south spur route on the west edge of the city.

This is the west edge of the Bruford River where the new freeway will cross.  Shown here is the eastern terminus of Highway 24 (Wakeman Boulevard) at the existing Highway 28, which has a two-lane crossing of the Bruford River.  The new freeway's crossing of the Bruford will follow the same general alignment. (Looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg443.imageshack.us%2Fimg443%2F2065%2Fu401rl0.jpg&hash=06409d620389fa4b773b21f8951682e9d8e8112c)

This is the east edge of the Bruford crossing, where Highway 28 meets with Highway 289. (looking north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg261.imageshack.us%2Fimg261%2F1053%2Fu402qx3.jpg&hash=bacab2d1cbf5599fe495cdb338536c55d4afb69f)

Construction begins on the approach to the new bridge, on the west end. (both facing east)  As you'll see in the second pic, Highway 24 will also be re-routed slightly.  Eventually, an interchange will be built here.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F6520%2Fu404wh0.jpg&hash=a3058697d6ccba8ddd4d4f7a19107257d229a716)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg266.imageshack.us%2Fimg266%2F3778%2Fu403sf6.jpg&hash=08f36e6d4836f66a8cf5121f2c95a18262e8f4f3)

___________________________________________________________________

And now for a little overview of how TDOT handles a couple of rather important tasks.  The first of these is route numbering.  The TDOT system has some similarity to the systems used for the US Highway and Interstate system, but also draws upon the Oregon highway numbering system and has some unique elements of its own.

There are three classes of highways under TDOT jurisdiction.

The first of these is Primary Routes.  The Primary Routes are effectively the major freeways running through the region.  These routes always use single-digit numbers, with the north-south routes carrying odd numbers (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) and the east-west routes carrying even numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8 ).  The odd numbers increase from west to east, and the even numbers increase from north to south.

Primary Route Shield
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg259.imageshack.us%2Fimg259%2F2189%2F150pxtdothighway5jz8.jpg&hash=d46cc13975a0534c27df466477407ea0cf78eb90)

The second of these is the Secondary Route System.  These routes always carry double-digit numbers, with again, the NS routes carrying odd numbers and EW routes carrying even numbers.  These routes vary in the standards at which they are built--some are freeway-grade routes, up to the standards of the Primary Routes (sometimes called "Sesquitary" routes, after the Latin sesqui, for 1.5), or are partially freeway-grade, though some are also 2-lane routes and some are routed down surface streets.

Secondary Route Shield
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F6928%2F150pxtdothighway89xk8.jpg&hash=c78c4a273655f47a42bb0c781e167c2f4cfc7f98)

The third of these is the Tertiary Route System.  Tertiary routes carry three-digit numbers.  They are similar in their condition to Secondary Routes, but are, by and large, relatively short routes.  The first two digits are assigned by the county in which the route "starts" (based on the southern or western terminus), and the second by the direction.

A few County Codes are as follows:

Palmer County (Wakeman): 28X
Emerson County (Argentum): 34X
Delos County (Los Endos): 40X

Tertiary Route Shield
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg208.imageshack.us%2Fimg208%2F1685%2F150pxtdothighway289jk6.jpg&hash=d2a34479397d3932a014169d0dab9d520102e246)

The new South Wakeman Corridor freeway, once it is completed through the Cascadia River Gorge, will carry a route number of 2.  You may have noticed on some of my previous maps, that Highway 4 in Argentum is routed down some surface streets . . . that's actually a temporary routing roughly following the eventual freeway route.  I'll be showing a few updates in Argentum in relatively short order (possibly next update, in fact).

Another thing which TDOT controls region-wide is the setting of speed limits, something very similar to the Oregon Department of Transportation's Speed Zoning Program (http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/TRAFFIC-ROADWAY/speed_zone_program.shtml)

TDOT engineers from the Traffic Management Division (based in Los Endos), usually in cooperation with local city and county authorities, set speed limits on all public roadways.  TDOT, unlike ODOT, does not specify "statutory" speed limits, in which a certain type of road has a default, unsigned speed limit (i.e. 25mph for residential streets), which are overriden by Speed Zone Orders.  Instead, the Speed Zone Orders are the rule rather than the exception, though a city or county "blanket" limit may apply in certain situations, merely because of the sheer amount of work signing every little side street would entail. 

A sample of a TDOT Speed Zone Order is shown below, for Argentum Boulevard--complete with some legalese, too.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg443.imageshack.us%2Fimg443%2F6440%2Fspeedorderpa0.jpg&hash=86b1c287c3dfed650bc36f7137b02d950076882a)

That's it for Update 40--hope you enjoyed it, and I'll be back with more construction next time!  And we're approaching the big #600 . . . looks like someone will be getting "on the map" shortly . . .

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: sebes on October 24, 2008, 05:12:59 PM
Very nice update, especially the part about the TDOT rather important task of roadnumbering!  I already like the old bridge, and look forward how the new one will look like. You're not going to demolish the old  Bruford bridge are you?

Anyhow, as I already have a place on the map, I'll leave the 600th post to somebody else  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on October 24, 2008, 06:00:17 PM
What an informative update! Thanks for sharing those highway regulations with us. The start of this new freeway alignment looks promising, too.

Here's a question for you: I noticed that your version of the SAM includes diagonal textures. My version, downloaded from the LEX, does not. Is your version of the mod not publicly available yet, or did you just get it from somewhere else?

Rather than wait until I would be the 600th replier, I just decided to post now because I seem to already have a mention in one of your maps - there's a Nywood Street somewhere (I see it as a combination of Nyhaven and woodb3kmaster). Nevertheless, if someone has posted between me and sebes, I'd gladly take another mention :-)

Looking forward to more,
Zack
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Swamper77 on October 24, 2008, 06:18:11 PM
The SAM has diagonal textures in it, and I got my version from the LEX. You need to install the Diagonal Streets Plugin for the NAM to have diagonal SAM streets. The diagonal streets are an optional Plugin of the NAM. The SAM simply overrides the diagonal street textures when one of the SAM variants connects to a diagonal street.

-Swamper
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: bob56 on October 24, 2008, 06:19:21 PM
where do you get the diagonal street plugin for the SAM?

welcome to SC4D, bob54!  You must mean the Diagonal Street Plugin for the NAM.  You'd need to install it directly from the NAM Installer--I believe it's installed by default, in fact.  See the Readme file for info on how to use it.  -Alex (Tarkus)

Thanks, Tarkus!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: dragonshardz on October 24, 2008, 07:14:37 PM
Hey, Jan, you got the 600th post! AWESOME!

And Tarkus, it looks great, I can't wait to see more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Swamper77 on October 24, 2008, 07:25:53 PM
Quote from: dragonshardz on October 24, 2008, 07:14:37 PM
Hey, Jan, you got the 600th post! AWESOME!

I did it on purpose, actually :P

-Swamper
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on October 24, 2008, 07:42:09 PM
Some nice shots of construction beginning...

And then there's where it gets really interesting. That is a very well thought-out and highly informative post. I think I'm going numbering-crazy now... and those numbers actually made sense! I never knew there was any rhyme or reason behind the state numbering systems.
The speed limit system's actually pretty interesting too. I think I'd stick with statutory speed limits though, but maybe that's just because they do that here...

Great update, and I look forward to seeing that highway complete!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Haljackey on October 24, 2008, 07:42:34 PM
Nice update!  I learned a bit about your transportation department!

Can't wait to see the new highway when it's done.

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: metarvo on October 24, 2008, 08:18:06 PM
I like the direction this is going, that's for sure.  :)  It's good that you're shedding some light on TDOT's road numbering practices.  For some reason, I've always found road numbers to be interesting.  I know of some RL highways that break the rules (e.g. even number goes N/S) or run at an overall diagonals and have no perfect numbers that can be applied.  Curious, isn't it? ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Pat on October 24, 2008, 08:26:24 PM
Hey Alex I always enjoy coming in and seeing what TDOT is doing and ripping up next lol... I like the start of the new alingment and I cant wait to see it finished off!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: threestooges on October 24, 2008, 09:18:34 PM
Nice work with this one Alex (why does that sound familiar?) the information about the route markers is great, but what happens if you have to put in more primary routes? I loved the little legalese you threw in to the order (though I'm drafting a contract for my negotiations class and our professor said she would be none too thrilled if we used 'whereas') Great idea to include the form too. Is there a reason they waited until .03mi past Main Street to alter the speed? Always good to see what you'll come up with. Until next time, take it easy.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: dedgren on October 24, 2008, 09:57:33 PM
Now this

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F6928%2F150pxtdothighway89xk8.jpg&hash=c78c4a273655f47a42bb0c781e167c2f4cfc7f98)

is cool!  Best looking SC4 route shield yet!


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Jmouse on October 24, 2008, 10:12:14 PM
That's really enlightening information, Alex! I've been on many a numbered road or highway without thinking of where the actual numbers came from.

I do know, however, that cities are severely restricted when it comes to making changes on a state or U.S. road/highway. Not always the quickest way of doing things IMO, but we can only hope that local, state and federal agencies will work together with the safety of drivers uppermost in mind.

I've come to love watching these transport transitions happen, so I'm anxious to see how TDOT deals with this newest challenge!

Later...

Joan


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: CasperVg on October 24, 2008, 10:15:30 PM
Funny, I really thought I had replied to the previous update; sorry for that. Either way, both of them look great. (congrats to Swamper for being the 600th poster)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on October 24, 2008, 10:26:20 PM
Quote from: Swamper77 on October 24, 2008, 06:18:11 PM
The SAM has diagonal textures in it, and I got my version from the LEX. You need to install the Diagonal Streets Plugin for the NAM to have diagonal SAM streets. The diagonal streets are an optional Plugin of the NAM. The SAM simply overrides the diagonal street textures when one of the SAM variants connects to a diagonal street.

-Swamper

OK, so I checked one of the texture DATs, and sure enough, there were diagonal textures in it. I have the NAM diagonal streets plugin installed (I assume that's the one that includes the diagonal helper puzzle pieces and enables the manual drawing of diagonal streets), so I'm puzzled as to why, when I plop a SAM starter piece, my diagonal streets don't convert to the SAM textures. Do I have to draw the streets to make it work?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Swamper77 on October 24, 2008, 10:33:16 PM
Just drag a section of street off the SAM starter piece and connect it to a section of diagonal street. The diagonal street section should automatically update it's textures to match the SAM street that is connected to it. I think only the parking lot style SAM doesn't have diagonal street sections.

-Swamper
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: Simpson on October 25, 2008, 12:25:27 AM
Wow, wow, wow Alex
This is an incredible update, I love each pictures  &apls
The curves of roads are looking very good

I love your terrain mod
Great work my friend, this is perfect. And also I'm looking forward to the next update
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: art128 on October 25, 2008, 05:55:58 AM
great update here Alex  :thumbsup: nice layout of road  :thumbsup:
good choice for this bridge  ;)
the road construction site is perfect my friend  :thumbsup: &apls
looking forward to the development and the next update  ;)
Arthur
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: bat on October 25, 2008, 08:33:33 AM
Beautiful new update there! Great work on the roads! :thumbsup:
And congrats for over 600 replies!! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: EDGE4194 on October 25, 2008, 09:44:05 AM
alex- fascinating info on TDOT- i enjoyed it! congrats on 600+ posts  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on October 25, 2008, 07:18:03 PM
Quote from: Swamper77 on October 24, 2008, 10:33:16 PM
Just drag a section of street off the SAM starter piece and connect it to a section of diagonal street. The diagonal street section should automatically update it's textures to match the SAM street that is connected to it. I think only the parking lot style SAM doesn't have diagonal street sections.

-Swamper

I tried that (several different ways) and it didn't work. Just to be sure, since I've been trying to get diagonal textures with the asphalt street set, I checked the DAT for that texture set, and I definitely have them. I wonder what's going on...

Zack, you may have a RUL conflict going on . . . an outdated NAM version or NAM controller sitting around.  Remove your NAM folder and try re-installing everything NAM-related.  If you're still running into issues, drop me a PM, and I'd be more than happy to help.  -Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 40--10/24/2008--S. Wakeman Corridor/TDOT Overview)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 26, 2008, 12:31:02 AM
Well! I don't really know what to say here, Alex! Stunning work, as always!

And David is certainly right, your route shields are definitely the best ones I've seen!

Great stuff here, my friend! Just great!

Dustin

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Tarkus on October 30, 2008, 06:39:30 PM
Back with another update . . . one that will surprise you a little.

But first, replies:

sebes:  Thanks, I thought you might enjoy that update, being a fellow roadgeek type. ;)  And don't worry, the existing bridge over the Bruford will be staying in place--it's historical.  Not nearly as spectacular as the Highway 89 bridge over the Bruford, though, which I'll have to show in a future update.

Zack (woodb3kmaster):  Thanks, glad you found the update informative, and there will be more of the new Highway 2 alignment shortly.  And you spotted Nywood Road in Argentum, too . . . I probably was in fact thinking Nyhaven when I came up with that, which, being a big roadgeek CJ/MD that was a bit of an inspiration here, deserves an honor.  Hope you managed to get the SAM Diagonals figured out, too--feel free to drop me a PM if you're still having issues. :)

Jan (Swamper77): Thanks for hitting the big #600!  As a result, you'll be getting "on the map"--in fact, you'll be getting a parkway, which will be shown in a very near future update.

bob56:  Hope I was able to help you out!

dragonshardz:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks for the kind words!  I'm glad you enjoyed the TDOT overview.  I've been thinking about numbering systems quite a bit recently, trying to wrap my head around Oregon's system (which doesn't make much sense upon first glance).  TDOT's never been keen on the statutory idea . . . mainly because the Traffic Management Division has some specificity fiends and doesn't want to leave anything to chance.  :D 

Haljackey:  Glad you enjoyed the little bit on TDOT and the new highway--thanks!  There will be more where that came from shortly. ;)

metarvo:  Thanks!  Being a big roadgeek, I can't help but be mesmerized by numbering systems.  I know of plenty of "violations" of the rules around these parts, too.  Interstate 82, which I frequented the couple years I lived in its "western" terminus (Ellensburg, WA) over here bothers the heck out of me. :D 

Pat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the latest installment, and I'm sure TDOT is looking forward to having that freeway in place once and for all.

Matt (threestooges):  Thanks--and that's a good question on the primary routes.  I'm not sure TDOT ever really plans on having more than 10, since the "secondary" routes are sometimes up to primary standards . . . of course, one idea that has been floated is that they start using hexadecimal numbers. ::)  I figured you might enjoy the legalese in there, and it sounds like your Negotiations professor should have a little talk with ODOT.  :D  They "Whereas" everything.  As far as why TDOT waited until 0.03 miles past Main Street to start the next speed zone, it was primarily so there was a little "buffer" for motorists heading into the 20mph zone before the Main Street intersection.  It's a standard thing ODOT does as well (they even get as ridiculously specific as 50 feet on some Speed Zone Orders). 

David (dedgren):  Thanks for the compliments on the highway shield!  I was shooting for a sort of "abstract mountain" design. 

There were actually a few other drafts I did before coming up with that one.  The first one, which was a bit boring:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg186.imageshack.us%2Fimg186%2F3391%2F200pxtriangleshieldcv9.jpg&hash=be034e95dd8d06f006e4a799ca9c2a2c4e808b96)

And one of the more entertaining ones--decided it was too gimmicky and not terribly legible:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F1157%2F150pxarmadilloshieldfa2.jpg&hash=df3f6a62b6d424c2462ef4e4cbfe45f4edfc2e97)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the numbering discussion.  Here in Oregon, actually, the cities and counties have quite a bit of reign over some stretches of state highway . . . largely because ODOT has actually turned over control of some of them (in entirety, even) to local jurisdictions, aside from keeping the route numbers and issuing Speed Zone Orders.  Which, from what I've seen, has been a good thing, particularly since the county road departments are generally well-funded here.

And you'll be seeing quite a bit more of TDOT's operations here shortly . . . they have some big plans . . .

Casper (caspervg):  Hey, no worries.  :)  Glad you enjoyed them!

David (Simpson):  Thanks for the kind words; glad you liked the terrain mod and the road curves--plenty more of them to come . . . albeit the terrain will be taking a bit of a "detour" this update as well. ;)

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed the construction work!

bat: Thanks for the kind words on the roads, and for congratulating me on #600 . . . couldn't have done it without you and everyone else who has posted here, either.  :)

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks!  Glad you liked the TDOT overview, and thanks for the congratulations as well!

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the kind words!  I'm glad you like the route shields as well--you'll be seeing lots more of them, too.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Well, at any rate, I'd like to take a "detour" and introduce you to the City of Lenox (population ~32,000). 

Road map to the immediate vicinity:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg510.imageshack.us%2Fimg510%2F9340%2Flenoxvalleymapde8.th.png&hash=4a7083791233b57978dca1a927bee1267cc51ead) (http://img510.imageshack.us/my.php?image=lenoxvalleymapde8.png)

As you can see, Lenox and the surrounding valley has one of TDOT's primary highways, Highway 3, running through it.  While it is a primary north-south route, it kind of tends more east-west through Lenox, and as it zig-zags through between some of the surrounding foothills.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F4713%2F150pxtdothighway3mw5.jpg&hash=f902892b5a9970e73b6ebe6c792584de4438cf4f)

Overview, looking north:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg184.imageshack.us%2Fimg184%2F9420%2Fu4112kn1.jpg&hash=8006d9cd1598c4d172ce27b772656ff3075a0a9a)

And no, you do not need to adjust your monitor.  That really is green terrain (Columbus, to be precise).  Lenox is about 200 miles west of Argentum, in an area that receives much more precipitation. 

And a few random pics from around the city:

Downtown, looking toward the west:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg406.imageshack.us%2Fimg406%2F9479%2Fu4111vi0.jpg&hash=5e31ca3e8ffd93a5c6f5b1a22740bac588d710eb)

Closer in:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg296.imageshack.us%2Fimg296%2F3580%2Fu4110mu2.jpg&hash=c32dc270b0c9cf4d2c534ce3f58487642764a94c)

Azalea Avenue (Highway 151) where it splits into the Main St/Railroad St One-Way Couplet, with the Sealey Way intersection, facing north.  The intersection of Railroad and Sealey is the busiest in the city, recording an peak hour volume of 2600.  Two-way traffic is allowed for half-a-block on Main to act as a sort of "left turn lane" onto northbound Sealey. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg518.imageshack.us%2Fimg518%2F6563%2Fu417ku6.jpg&hash=cc3d3dbba438ca7cc88b52c85a30101b54a87ce7)

This is looking west at the Main/Railroad couplet intersecting with Orson Road, near the bridge.  Orson Road is a major north-south arterial connecting downtown Lenox to the industrial district.  Random fact: Lenox has two Burger Kings, and no McDonald's.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg514.imageshack.us%2Fimg514%2F7244%2Fu416dm4.jpg&hash=047a42a4639ec62329a70075a7c6d24dc679f6d7)

The aforementioned industrial district, facing north.  As you can see, it's in a prime location, with access to Highway 3 and a rail line.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg508.imageshack.us%2Fimg508%2F2418%2Fu414qe1.jpg&hash=00e5ba2f6846b96ae261330ba3f8ad235ee502af)

Closer in:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg509.imageshack.us%2Fimg509%2F2305%2Fu415kz5.jpg&hash=b7045a1272e1de1ece56da1aed7ecc63dd30fb9e)

The east end of the Main/Railroad couplet (facing west), where it merges to form Hidden Valley Road.  (Salad dressing, anyone?)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg526.imageshack.us%2Fimg526%2F8149%2Fu419rz6.jpg&hash=d6417340fc6f65b7444da5382f9d6e9f3800c70f)

A shot of the eastern agricultural district.  This is looking north along Brinstar Road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg523.imageshack.us%2Fimg523%2F7413%2Fu418jq6.jpg&hash=ab71a45dce3e8cc53fd1a66032a4d02d2cb15016)

Back along Highway 3, here is its interchange with Tigard Drive, a major surface arterial in the west part of Lenox (facing north).  It is where Highway 151 links into Highway 3--151 was formerly the main highway through the region, but became a tertiary route when the Highway 3 freeway bypassed it.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg505.imageshack.us%2Fimg505%2F9567%2Fu413ai5.jpg&hash=23b4d9b05e92bdadd448642e960bd5ea9b866083)

The Azalea Avenue/Tigard Drive intersection, a major commercial hub in western Lenox (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg522.imageshack.us%2Fimg522%2F1126%2Fu411vt9.jpg&hash=8eff0900b386a9875b94471c7029d65525043ab1)

Tigard Drive to the south of the freeway, going past a residential neighborhood:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg523.imageshack.us%2Fimg523%2F7642%2Fu412ds0.jpg&hash=dfefa31376dfea5622d32897772f4f7c5204ea15)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on October 30, 2008, 06:48:39 PM
I think I see that interchange you posted on the Show Us Your Intersections thread on that map... (40/3 along the bottom)

That's a nice looking town... the columbus terrain's nice for a change.

Ooh... a target... where'd you get that?

There is some really cool stuff shown in this update. And I think I've spotted both Burger Kings.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Dark_horse_spirit on October 30, 2008, 06:56:35 PM
What is that Industrial Building with the golden roof, nice!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: j-dub on October 30, 2008, 07:06:54 PM
Quote(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg522.imageshack.us%2Fimg522%2F1126%2Fu411vt9.jpg&hash=8eff0900b386a9875b94471c7029d65525043ab1)

Hey Alex, why no center turn lane (TLA-5) in this dense commercial area?

By the way, respectively speaking about burger king. McDonald's at least has a house of charities which sponsors families whose children are in the hospital, and Wendy's has an adoption program sponsoring orphans, and what does BK do, previously sponsor previous EA games other than this one like some of the NFS series, by offering more $ than McDonals did in the first NFSu1. Don't get me wrong, BK's dollar burger, seems more valuble than MickieD's version, with less grease.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: metarvo on October 30, 2008, 07:14:37 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on October 30, 2008, 06:39:30 PM
Random fact: Lenox has two Burger Kings, and no McDonald's.

That's what I call a monopoly. :D  Where do people go to get their Big Macs now?  Not to mention those golden, tasty fries...

How did I get off on that?  Anyway, this is another great update, Alex.  I like your use of the SAM dark streets very much. :)  The Columbus Terrain's pretty much what I use now, too.  I haven't been able to go back after using it once.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on October 30, 2008, 07:29:12 PM
Err... I think someone hired some drunk engineers again... :D

That RHW beside the highway is messed up... too bumpy... as well as some illogical road intersections in a number of places... $%Grinno$%

Oh well... I guess this was intentional so that the bulldozers can go out and play one day. :D

- Allan K.

Heh . . . TDOT's one step ahead of you, Allan.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F2182%2Fu41addendumfh7.jpg&hash=3f75abca5598771a2f4772c1b532afb364bde71d)
Though a widening project may be needed in the future. ;-) -Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Ryan B. on October 30, 2008, 09:56:51 PM
Sweet update, Alex.  I can't wait to see what TDOT has in store for us next!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Haljackey on October 30, 2008, 11:30:57 PM
I spy with my little eye... A map! 
-I nearly missed it!  The thumbnail is so tiny!

I took at look at the map after I viewed the update, and a I gotta say, the map really shows the routes in your city in great detail!  It really put the icing on the cake, even though it should have been the first thing I viewed (hence not the icing :P). 

Anyways, I'm getting a little carried away so I'll just say this:  amazing update Alex!   :thumbsup:

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on October 31, 2008, 01:08:31 AM
I see... things have improved... then again to have that really long overpass actually is unrealistic altogether... i was expecting more of an below-grade cut with underpasses to cross the rail and road as that seems to be more cheaper than using a long overpass. But I dunno.

EDIT:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg184.imageshack.us%2Fimg184%2F9420%2Fu4112kn1.jpg&hash=8006d9cd1598c4d172ce27b772656ff3075a0a9a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg508.imageshack.us%2Fimg508%2F2418%2Fu414qe1.jpg&hash=00e5ba2f6846b96ae261330ba3f8ad235ee502af)

Yeah, there's room for a below-grade cut there... Besides there's no development that's really beside the freeway right now...

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Sciurus on October 31, 2008, 02:36:19 AM
Very nice! &apls But I don't like the RHW! ()sad()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: art128 on October 31, 2008, 02:44:37 AM
very great update Alex  :thumbsup:
It's a really pleasant city, and I would like to live there  &apls &apls
great use of RHW and FAR :thumbsup:
Arthur
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: CommodoreTech on October 31, 2008, 04:49:25 AM
Highly impressive.
I love all the traffic and transport renovating. Very much like my own town, constantly re-configuring traffic, lol!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: south park on October 31, 2008, 05:44:57 AM
great update tarkus , your city is just sweet , can't wait to see more !! &apls :thumbsup:

vincent
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: bat on October 31, 2008, 09:02:10 AM
These new pictures of the 41th update are looking beautiful!
Lenox is a nice city... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Pat on October 31, 2008, 10:14:00 AM
Alex love this newest update here wow!!! The ariel is soo breath taking and EL-RHW is looking great....  :thumbsup:

that bites that TDOT is not to happy about the freeway... Either way I know and I trust TDOT wont let us down at all, after all we depend on them to get from point A to point B...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: Jmouse on October 31, 2008, 12:39:50 PM
You have created some breathtaking intersections in Lenox Valley, Alex. Honestly, some are ones I'd avoid if possible! :D The Hwy. 51 and Main St./Railroad St. complex in the fourth photo looks treacherous, although may not be as bad as it looks. I'm wondering about the purpose for that short stretch of one-way by the railroad. I'm certainly no transport guru, though, so I'm sure you TDOT has good reasons for the layout. In fact, as I lay out a new region now, I often ask myself what Alex would do here or there! $%Grinno$%

The neighborhoods look good as do the commercial areas and industrial park. It's always a pleasure to study another of your transport projects!

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: nerdly_dood on October 31, 2008, 01:11:35 PM
Nice update! I agree with Jmouse that some intersections should be avoided ;D
and also with J-Dub that the avenue in your commercial district would be better off with a center turn lane.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on October 31, 2008, 04:48:50 PM
Looking great as usual, Alex! Lenox looks like a nice city with plenty of potential for TDOT. And yes, I did succeed in getting the SAM diagonals to work, though I'm still PMing you for clarification.

I look forward to seeing what TDOT does here in Lenox!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: sim-al2 on October 31, 2008, 05:46:45 PM
Those pencil factories massively overgrew! You must have some serious pencil-pushers in your town!  :P The industrial district roads look a little bumpy, but nothing a little manual leveling can't fix!  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 31, 2008, 11:55:11 PM
You continue to do nothing but impress here, Alex!

Lenox looks just wonderful--I love the new map, it is absolutely magnificent, my friend!

Keep up the good work, and I'll be back to see what you've got for us next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: CasperVg on November 01, 2008, 05:19:47 AM
You've created yet another splendid update here, Alex! The maps that you add to virtually every update are informative, and certainly do help in getting around the complex systems that you build.

What happened to the Argentum Highway Shields tho?
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F6276%2Fhwy2bf5.jpg&hash=2c4bf6c15ab0bf25333ff3b1f402f6821bc49444) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg247.imageshack.us%2Fimg247%2F7443%2Fhwy4ez8.jpg&hash=6029b476aaff180f39c12fc2c617884c3a614956) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg187.imageshack.us%2Fimg187%2F6337%2Fhwy59kn1.jpg&hash=4bb8a28b88542bc3e34b87432d5f5794adf88447) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg187.imageshack.us%2Fimg187%2F9610%2Fhwy61kl2.jpg&hash=55ed71482e3354f8697d573448b871dc78b90e47) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F8232%2Fhwy204lq3.jpg&hash=ca20ac4bf5889113cd6b02a70b7e818b1ceba045)

I can't wait for a new update  :thumbsup:

Page 33
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 01, 2008, 06:11:47 AM
 &apls- as usual i found myself studying each detail of your awesome map. There are some small 1x1 buildings in your downtown zoom (along main st i believe) that i don't recognize. do you recall where they came from?  You did a great job on this one alex- the town layout is done very well. The only thing that seems to be missing: there are no commercial buildings along the freeway. where are the gas stations, fast food, billboards etc...?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: paroch on November 01, 2008, 07:42:02 AM
Hi Alex,

That is a really great overview shot - shows just how well the city is laid out.  And your selection of random shots shows the city off really well.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 41--10/30/2008--Lenox)
Post by: bakerton on November 01, 2008, 03:51:18 PM
Alex, Now that is an update. It was really nice and cool. Can't wait for the next update Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Tarkus on November 04, 2008, 06:56:51 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another Tarkusian update.

But first, replies . . . and a lot of them. ;)  Thank you for all the great comments and feedback! :thumbsup:

deathtopumpkins:  You are correct . . . I did indeed show the Highway 3/40 "West Lenox Interchange" in Show Us Your Interchanges . . . might as well show it here, too.  (Note that these are not the final models . . . those diagonal pieces and ramps will not be "floating" without supports when you finally get your hands on Version 21.)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg373.imageshack.us%2Fimg373%2F5299%2Fwestlenoxinterchange102zs2.jpg&hash=24dfa7f2ec43ac927b7060e44c1f69411a31e194)

Thanks for the compliments on the town as well--it's been awhile since I've done a non-desert region, so I figured it was time to bring out the Columbus mod.  The Target there is made by early BATer joerg and can be found on the STEX--and I've re-lotted it myself.  (My first ever serious lot, in fact.) 

And the Burger Kings are at Orson Road between Main and Railroad, and along Azalea Avenue near the Tigard Drive intersection. ;)

dark_horse_spirit:  The building with the yellow roof in the industrial area is SimGoober's Pet Supplies.  I believe it should be in the recently updated SimGoober I-M Megapack on the LEX--it's a Stage 4 I-M Camelot.

j-dub:  That's a good question.  I actually didn't have the NWM Alpha installed when I built Lenox.  I think it's definitely an ideal place for a TLA-5, though.  I'll admit, I'm a Burger King fan myself, too . . . though it doesn't compare to Carl's Jr, which actually outnumbers all other fast-food franchises here in Eugene. ;)

metarvo:  Hehe . . . that is a monopoly.  Though I'd imagine as Lenox grows, Mickey D's will find their way in.  And thanks for the kind words on the update--I can't get enough of the SAM Dark Asphalt set either.  And I'm quite pleased with how things have turned out using the Columbus mod . . . it's just the right shade . . .

allan_kuan1992:  Well, that gives me something to fix, doesn't it? :D  And thanks for the suggestion on Highway 3 as well . . . I still kinda like the Elevated setup . . . it looks alright in the Industrial area once the slope gets smoothed out.  I'm sure TDOT has some ideas as well, though.

Ryan (burgsabre87):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the update, and I can't wait to see what TDOT comes up with, either.

Haljackey:  Thanks!  Sorry for the small thumbnail . . . it seems to be a side effect of having a very wide map.  I'm glad to hear you managed to find it, and thanks for the compliments on it--glad you enjoyed the rest of the update as well!

sciurus54:  Thanks . . . though as the primary developer on the RHW, I'd be curious to know what your objections to the RHW are.  ;)

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the RHW and FAR usage (there's a big stretch of FARR in there, too).  And I probably wouldn't mind living in Lenox myself, though I may be biased :D . . . reminds me a lot of a hybrid of a few towns here in Western Oregon.  (Those wacky intersections look like something straight out of Albany, Oregon.)

CommodoreTech:  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the re-engineering part of things.  I can't resist that sort of stuff myself, having been fascinated by road construction from an early age.  I always seem to find plenty of places in my cities to repeatedly tear up. :D

Vincent (south park):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and hope you enjoy this latest update!

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad you liked Lenox . . . you'll get to see more of it this time around in Update 42!

Pat:  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed the aerial shot (I really do need to start showing more of them) and the Elevated RHW, which you'll be seeing a lot more of here soon. ;)  And TDOT's never happy with anything--they're such perfectionists. ::)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the kind words and for the feedback on the various intersections.  Your comment regarding that one intersection actually sparked this update--TDOT listens. :D  As far as the One-Way near the railroad, it's part of a one-way couplet through downtown Lenox.  Its placement does cause some issues, though.  I'm glad you liked the neighborhoods, and I hope this update here answers some lingering transportational questions. ;)

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the constructive feedback!  Like Joan's, it helped give me the idea for this latest update. :)  And I agree with j-dub, too. ;)

Zack (woodb3kmaster): Thanks for the kind words--and I think there's enough stuff in Lenox that's just messed up enough for TDOT to have some fun. :D  I'm really glad to hear you managed to get the SAM Diagonals working, too! 

sim-al2:  Yes, those pencils are being pushed quite a bit around there . . . so TDOT can get enough funding. :D  Thanks for the feedback on the roads in the industrial area, too . . . they probably do need a little bit more tweaking.  I do use a fairly strict slope mod, and fought with that area a bit, but it still is a bit . . . bumptastic.

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks, I'm glad you found Lenox to your liking, and enjoyed the latest map!  Hope you enjoy this latest update as well!

Casper (caspervg):  Thanks for the kind words!  I'm pleased to hear the maps were helpful. :)  That's a good question on the highway shields, too . . . those old Argentum ones are actually identical to Oregon state highway shields (see here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_Route_47)).  While the Oregon shields do give me a bit of a sense of familiarity, they're not the most exciting design by any means (::)), and I wanted to give myself a little bit more room to be creative, so I came up with the new shields. 

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm really glad to hear you enjoyed the latest map and the town layout.  Those 1x1 commercial buildings on Main Street there are part of Deadwoods' Aussie Small Retail Series--I believe they're on the STEX.  I don't have a link at the moment (the search function isn't cooperating at the moment), but I'll post it here once I'm able to get to it.  They've become a fixture in most of my small towns. 

And as far as the lack of commercial stuff along the freeway, Highway 3 only recently supplanted what is now Highway 151 as the main route through town . . . Lenox has been growing at a fairly fast rate, though, so it's likely not going to be long before it's lined with gas stations and . . . McDonald's. :D

Paul (paroch):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the overview random selection of shots . . . I rather enjoyed taking that approach this time around with introducing Lenox, and may have to do that with more frequency.  And thanks for the compliments on the layout as well! :)

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks, glad to hear it was "cool"! :)  Hope you enjoy this latest installment as well. ;)
__________________________________________________

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg265.imageshack.us%2Fimg265%2F6015%2F150pxtdothighway151za3.jpg&hash=93e8c8769348d6ce4079098123b90cfa2b4d50ff)
Lenox--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection

This project will realign and provide safety improvements to the intersection of Highway 151 (Azalea Avenue/Main Street/Railroad Street) with Sealey Way.  This intersection is the busiest intersection in Lenox. 

Highway 151 is a former primary route, and the main arterial to the north and south of Downtown Lenox, providing a "business loop" off of the Highway 3 freeway.  Azalea Avenue splits into the Main/Railroad One-Way Couplet just before reaching Sealey Way, a minor arterial providing access to residential areas on the north side of town, along with connecting downtown to Tigard Drive and River Road.

Below is a map and an image of the existing conditions at Highway 151 and Sealey:

Map
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg444.imageshack.us%2Fimg444%2F1483%2Fu42map1ok6.png&hash=5e16218a10e6041adbec1e996ab5965b84feb1bd)

Existing Intersection (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg221.imageshack.us%2Fimg221%2F6366%2Fu421nb5.jpg&hash=40d60a83307af1a671863ede6e7d55c2ec5402e7)

Construction begins (facing north)  Two houses were removed.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg80.imageshack.us%2Fimg80%2F3064%2Fu422yf5.jpg&hash=8528ca0a06100c66a2be57bd8237c67adb4b6636)

The southern segment of Sealey Way, with the Railroad Street intersection (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg91.imageshack.us%2Fimg91%2F9506%2Fu423kg2.jpg&hash=496d87372cd132373e60827345f434a300e72ce8)

Azalea Avenue has been closed off for construction, with motorists advised to use Hillside Drive to 2nd Street in the interim.  Motorists on the northern portion of Sealey can still access downtown and the Main/Railroad couplet.  As you can probably guess from this image, Azalea will be elevated as part of the project, so that the intersection will no longer be complicated by the railroad. (facing east)

There were some concerns at the open house meetings from citizens whose property backed directly up to the new alignment.  However, they conceded that elevating Azalea Avenue would cause less noise than elevating the railroad.  In addition, this option was less costly.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg147.imageshack.us%2Fimg147%2F5148%2Fu425wm9.jpg&hash=00c7f779d48f4538572dcc3fbe40d12794992226)

The southern segment of Sealey is closed off for realignment. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg412.imageshack.us%2Fimg412%2F2903%2Fu426gb0.jpg&hash=52c918870befa05dbce3866f7c44cb57a526b2ab)

Now the northern segment of Sealey has been closed off.  As you can see, the two sections of Main Street now connect, and Azalea connects directly into the northern segment of Sealey.  Railroad Street connects to Azalea via an Elevated T-Intersection. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg408.imageshack.us%2Fimg408%2F3063%2Fu427hn8.jpg&hash=f08882b889b820ac3a9b674f6e3892fa13b8fd33)

The new alignment of the north portion of Sealey has been completed.  (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg147.imageshack.us%2Fimg147%2F8813%2Fu428fg0.jpg&hash=b19887615fd66035d606b8564c940027cc8ce361)

The area between Main and Railroad is being developed, and will include a small park, with a new playground to replace the one removed near the library.  A new small playground has also been placed near the library as well. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg101.imageshack.us%2Fimg101%2F55%2Fu429il4.jpg&hash=70007cd202a3e1ae52cbf8f5efef5edda7afcc4c)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg407.imageshack.us%2Fimg407%2F8016%2Fu4210ea9.jpg&hash=86bf5139ee1bdd685de032d0e0bc407fdb39389e)

The southern portion of Sealey Way, which no longer connects to the northern portion.  The city is considering renaming this stretch of road as a result.  5th Street now directly connects to Railroad instead of Sealey. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg440.imageshack.us%2Fimg440%2F5708%2Fu4211op8.jpg&hash=1cafc1ba7392f4ed18a079ac500e3d2f7818deac)

A closer in look at the Azalea/Main/Sealey Intersection. (facing south)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg444.imageshack.us%2Fimg444%2F9745%2Fu4212hi9.jpg&hash=e9cc66e11bbf1ac340822e51fcb45eece87b126a)

A map and an overview of the completed improvements:

Map
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg266.imageshack.us%2Fimg266%2F2262%2Fu42map2sh8.png&hash=acba0271fa2e1271eed7abe0fa0291e8ad123256)

Overview
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg265.imageshack.us%2Fimg265%2F4742%2Fu4213le8.jpg&hash=d8f4a6221c8df09f3bded79dd954be7e14ccf72d)

And that does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Pat on November 04, 2008, 07:55:16 PM
Alex wonderful stuff that TDOT is doing and I know they work so hard to give us the best and so I apperciate that!!! Let them know they are doing a damn great job at it!!!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Haljackey on November 04, 2008, 07:57:31 PM
Hmm... Interesting to say the least.  What a creative update Alex!  I've done the same for intersecting roads and overpasses (applied to ramps too).  Although I've never quite seen it done like this before.  The new alignment looks a little more "griddy", yet more efficient.

Keep it up!  You always have something unique to show here!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: metarvo on November 04, 2008, 08:35:03 PM
Always tearing it up and then building it back.  That's how it's done in road construction.  At least TDOT didn't run out of money.  I once saw a large-scale project that entailed the widening of a two lane state highway (RHW-2's) to four lanes (RHW-4's) get abandoned.  I don't know the exact reason for this decision, but I heard that lack of funding was the main cause.  Oh, well...  /wrrd%&  This update was superb, Alex. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Simpson on November 05, 2008, 12:40:33 AM
WOW, wow and also Wow  ;D
These two update are fantastic
The first picture is my preferate. I love the general picture

Fantastic work Alex. And also I'm looking forward to the next update, my friend
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Jmouse on November 05, 2008, 01:38:18 AM
You really outdid yourself this time Alex! This project is one of the most interesting I've seen so far, and as always, the maps made it easy to follow.

There's no outguessing you either - I've never heard of an elevated T intersection, but it's a perfect fit for this situation. Could it be that one T will lead to another? Anyway, I like the way you redecorated the surrounding areas, too. The finished project looks very realistic, both on the map and in the overview.

Excellent update...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: art128 on November 05, 2008, 01:57:31 AM
great work on that rebuilt of the speedway and the main street Alex  &apls really fantastic work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: bat on November 05, 2008, 07:05:51 AM
Like always fantastic work on that new update!
Beautiful pictures of the Highqay 151 and Sealey Way Intersection!!!! :thumbsup:
Great!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: debutterfly on November 06, 2008, 05:38:21 AM
Nice work Alex.  :thumbsup: I really like the way you show the construction in your photos. Also, you need to update your signature...you changed the RHW part but not your MD. You need to change it so people can know that you have more picturesque photos to show them.  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Sheep49 on November 06, 2008, 07:59:51 AM
Great work, Alex!

The map looks awesome, what application did you use to make that? Is it Adobe Illustrator? If so, I think I know what I'm going to buy for X-mas for myself :P

I'd really like to build such realistic interchanges... especially RHW ones ;)

And I just love the look of the newly developed area! It's looking so nice :thumbsup:

The only thing that I didn't find really good is the street on the first picture, where the SAM texture is broken half way in ;) But when rebuilding, I see that you fixed it, so everything is OK. :D

Keep up the great work! :thumbsup:
Piotr
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: bakerton on November 07, 2008, 09:31:11 PM
Nice update Alex. By any chance, do you work for the DOT or for any construction companies? I say that because you are a master on this stuff. SimCity or not, your projects are inspiring and cool to look at. Waiting for more projects. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on November 07, 2008, 10:17:41 PM
That was a lot of construction for one little intersection! I like how it turned out though, as that elevated intersection's a nice idea...

The little park looks nice too, and the smooth curves should keep traffic flowing smoothly through there for years to come...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 08, 2008, 08:20:35 AM
alex- great work on the realignment project! a perfect use of the elevated t-intersection. I actually liked the angles streets before, but the new alignments are more efficient.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Fatsuhono on November 08, 2008, 10:13:03 PM
Tarkus: These 'Tarkusian Cities' are very well-made. You have outstanding quality with custom BAT use, I love the flora and your great interchange.
Keep it up! :) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: phoenix7 on November 13, 2008, 04:24:18 PM
As usual, I am entertained by your awesome roadgeekery and previews of new technology. I agree that the Sealey/Hwy 151 intersection was very dangerous, but I have to ask, why not sink the rail line? This would preserve the residents' views, reduce noise, and get rid of that ugly elevated intersection.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: j-dub on November 13, 2008, 05:29:29 PM
Well even though its Alex's city, heres the thing, realistically, you can't always sink the rail line, after its built. I don't know anywhere that has done this in a suburb. Right now my real area of multiple communities, never had the $ to build overpasses, or tall fences to keep the freight trains from causing trouble. If this were reality sinking that line would cost alot of money. After all that hard labor, if I was a construction worker, I wouldn't be happy about having to tear these new overpasses down, and do more work.   
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on November 13, 2008, 06:54:59 PM
j-dub: Actually, sinking rail lines has become rather popular in RL recently. According to Trains Magazine, BNSF Railway is sinking (probably has sunk by now) their main line through most of southern Minnesota (think that was the state--don't have the article handy), including rural areas, UP did so through the entire town of Reno, NV, and I've heard proposals from other railroads in other places too over the past couple years. It's often just as cheap to sink a rail line as to build overpasses over it, especially if you factor in long-term costs associated, such as maintenance. I can't link to a source though...

Besides, this is SimCity! Who says things have to be the same or cost the same as RL?  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: phoenix7 on November 13, 2008, 07:49:17 PM
I have seen the same thing IRL. For example, the Amtrak tracks in Reno were recently sunken.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: dedgren on November 13, 2008, 08:11:24 PM
Best urban application of FAR curves I've seen yet, Alex.  Very cool RL sort of storyline.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: TheTeaCat on November 15, 2008, 02:00:59 PM
34 Pages  I made it :D
Just catching up on everything I've missed.

Impressed I hear you ask. An emphatic yes to that. &apls &apls

There is so much wonderful stuff here that I shall have to set aside
another evening to reread all this.
Got a good few new ideas too - thanks for that.

Meant to give you one of these a while back but I forgot &mmm
Sorry - here you go now though
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg337.imageshack.us%2Fimg337%2F7329%2Fimagescuppasw1.jpg&hash=efdacee2041023f74d752089f45ebd46f271b3c6)

I'll be back for more :thumbsup:

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Pat on November 30, 2008, 08:24:05 AM
Hey Alex congrats on your award for the best use of supplemental content!!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: thundercrack83 on November 30, 2008, 11:31:18 AM

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo134%2Fthundercrack83%2FMD%2520Awards%2FBEST-SUPPLEMENTAL.jpg&hash=d7064a6b4295be6357ed61f930619d907b60b947)

CONGRATULATIONS!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: threeswept on November 30, 2008, 12:11:39 PM
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR AWARD!!!!! &apls &apls &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Ryan B. on November 30, 2008, 12:14:24 PM
From one roadgeek to another, congratulations!

And, no offence to threeswept, but I'm really glad I didn't get post # 666.  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: threeswept on November 30, 2008, 12:21:26 PM
Quote from: burgsabre87 on November 30, 2008, 12:14:24 PM
From one roadgeek to another, congratulations!

And, no offence to threeswept, but I'm really glad I didn't get post # 666.  :P

But, isn't 666 a lucky number? hahaha!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Ryan B. on November 30, 2008, 12:22:40 PM
Quote from: threeswept on November 30, 2008, 12:21:26 PM
But, isn't 666 a lucky number? hahaha!

Not in my family.  My dad and I always buy something else if our total ever hits '6.66' or some variety.   :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: thundercrack83 on November 30, 2008, 12:39:15 PM
Congratulations on this award, Alex!

You certainly deserve it, my friend, given the quality of the maps and other great stuff that you have to show us on a regular basis here!

I'll be looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Lilojame on November 30, 2008, 04:59:27 PM
Hello! Congrats on winning the award!!!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: Jmouse on December 01, 2008, 02:45:52 AM
Congratulations, Alex. I've been hooked on your "road-geek" MD for a long time now! :thumbsup: The maps, the tutes, the explanations and the fun of watching it all happen is a pleasure I hope to enjoy for a long time to come. In fact, the road I live on could use a little TLC! :)

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42--11/4/2008--Highway 151/Sealey Way Intersection)
Post by: bat on December 01, 2008, 03:26:11 AM
Congrats for winning that award, Alex! And looking forward to some new updates... :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on December 01, 2008, 11:11:55 AM
Thanks, everyone for the congratulations and all the great replies to the last update.  My apologies for not having much going on here in Tarkusian Cities as of late--RL (end of the term at uni) plus trying to get things ready on RHW Version 3.0.  I'll be going full-force, though, next week--I've got lots of interesting stuff to show you all.

In the meanwhile, a little something to tide you over . . . say hello to Argentum's new Beltway, Highway 340 (formerly marked on my maps as proposed Highway 261).

This is at the new Isthmus Avenue interchange, looking west.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg100.imageshack.us%2Fimg100%2F8742%2Ftc12012008fz3.jpg&hash=e736539f5ea0236686235fa3da06663a71c9645c)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: JoeST on December 01, 2008, 11:35:20 AM
you getting teasing tips of Casper? :D great looking pic

cant wait till next week :)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Pat on December 01, 2008, 11:52:37 AM
Hey Alex again congrats on your Award and I love that teaser there!!!! Is this title a per say to something lol hehehehe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Godzillaman on December 01, 2008, 12:31:56 PM
Wow...I always wanted to make an amazing looking highway like that...now if it was just released... :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on December 01, 2008, 12:48:41 PM
Nice teaser there! Really can't wait until v3.0!  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: metarvo on December 01, 2008, 02:07:14 PM
Congratulations on the award, Alex.  It's no wonder that you have won it, considering that you always consider the small details and present them to us in the form of high-quality maps.

Teasing, yet pleasing. ;)  The RHW-6C looks spectacular, and the interchange as a whole seems to be well-constructed.  The frontage roads add a great amount of detail to this pic.  This is good stuff, and I look forward to the next update, Alex.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: bat on December 02, 2008, 10:02:58 AM
Welcome to page 35! &apls

Nice teaser there and nice work with the RHW!
Looking forward to "The Storm"...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: EDGE4194 on December 02, 2008, 07:37:47 PM
nice highway  alex :thumbsup: .. and congratulations on your well-deserved award  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: thundercrack83 on December 02, 2008, 07:41:02 PM
Wonderful interchange there, Alex!

I'm with bat--I can't wait for the storm either, if this is the calm!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Ryan B. on December 02, 2008, 07:48:11 PM
Hunker down, folks - if I know Alex (and I do), then this is gonna be some storm.  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Jmouse on December 02, 2008, 09:27:05 PM
OK, I'm peeking out of the storm shelter - bring it on! :thumbsup:

Soon...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: threestooges on December 03, 2008, 12:35:09 AM
Always something new to see around here, and amazing maps too. The award is well deserved, and it's always good to see how you continue to raise the bar with your works. Hope finals and all go well. Best of luck with them.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: bakerton on December 04, 2008, 02:41:53 PM
Alex, Nice teaser you have and I will hunker down for the storm. Bring it on Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: metarvo on December 04, 2008, 03:06:31 PM
Expect high winds, in excess of 80 mph, with dangerous lightning and possible road construction, along with excessive teasing.  ;D  I can't wait!  Of course, I suppose I will...  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on December 04, 2008, 04:37:06 PM
Omg , i can feel the Category 10 typhoon of the next update! $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 42.25--12/1/2008--The Calm Before The Storm . . .)
Post by: Lilojame on December 04, 2008, 08:08:31 PM
Very nice picture there! And uh-hum... I guess I need to find a hiding spot for your next update  :o!

Have fun and I hope that you get enough relaxation between all the work you have on your shoulders...
Karin ()borg()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: Tarkus on December 18, 2008, 12:46:13 AM
Hi everyone-

My sincere apologies for the lack of updates lately.  I finished up my the term at the university only last Friday, and my main SC4 focus has been getting the RHW ready for release.  But, as promised, the storm is finally arriving.  ;)  Thanks for all the great comments, and for all the congratulations on the MD Award--it's really appreciated!   :thumbsup:

Last time, in my ".25" update, I showed a teaser of the new freeway encircling central Argentum, which TDOT is now calling Highway 340--"340" because it is a tertiary highway in Emerson County (the TDOT County Code for Emerson Co. is "34") and it runs primarily east-west. 

Well, this time, I'm going to delve a little deeper into Highway 340--at least the portion that runs through downtown Argentum.

This first pic here is a historical curiosity in the history of Argentum, from about 18 months ago, back when Highway 4 actually ran through the current Highway 340 corridor--as a Maxis Highway--in my defense, built before I had ever gotten involved in RHW development. :D  This is looking east at the old Argentum Blvd/Stone Ave interchange.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg360.imageshack.us%2Fimg360%2F7052%2Fu430zk3.jpg&hash=113d22d0dca4206166a3daa11cae8632ba2957d2)

And now for a few miscellaneous construction pics:

This image here is after the old Maxis Highway was completely torn out, just east of Isthmus Avenue (looking west).  That road on the right hand side is Peninsula Avenue.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg224.imageshack.us%2Fimg224%2F6162%2Fu431eh5.jpg&hash=580499a57ee2b14260ee898f47243a024c2ca3e1)

In order to make room for the new freeway, Isthmus Avenue was realigned.  The old alignment is shown below, along with the start of the overpass for the new alignment (looking north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg518.imageshack.us%2Fimg518%2F2511%2Fu433vx5.jpg&hash=4fedb3a7268f91cb605e817b364df89783ff7262)

Parts of the old alignment of Isthmus being torn out.  The first is facing east, the second is facing north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg360.imageshack.us%2Fimg360%2F6080%2Fu432kq6.jpg&hash=e3c8ea1898df1b210379047c36c5b10ec07bc9d3)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg360.imageshack.us%2Fimg360%2F8374%2Fu434cf5.jpg&hash=61278004ab4944b8eb51e0e34ac4f02992f94abe)

This is part of the old western segment of the Isthmus Avenue alignment from back before the Peninsula-Parallel Corridor Project from Update 34 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg169851#msg169851).  (Facing north)  As you can see, it partially lies in the right-of-way for Highway 340, so it'll be going bye-bye.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg187.imageshack.us%2Fimg187%2F15%2Fu435vj1.jpg&hash=9e0778d5e9d28dcdf53b2965c20e4f6c19d9d4e6)

More reconstruction work on the north side of the Argentum Inlet.  You can see a further part of the old Isthmus alignment in the upper left corner.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg178.imageshack.us%2Fimg178%2F5465%2Fu436fd2.jpg&hash=eac167260010efa750237427f7bf4be31bb60af0)

Here is the new Isthmus Avenue alignment and overpass completed, before the freeway has actually gone in.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg399.imageshack.us%2Fimg399%2F3484%2Fu437jn1.jpg&hash=df328bb420eda25fca6c85e5e60effb8d97b768a)

This is on the opposite end of the freeway, facing west.  Highway 340 does not actually have an interchange with Highway 61 . . . yet . . .
So right now, it just crosses over 61 and ends at an at-grade intersection with Tarentum Lane.  To the east of Tarentum, 340 runs through Argentum's eastern suburbs as an expressway-type road, the Tropod Parkway, named after NAM Team founder and modding great Tropod

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg399.imageshack.us%2Fimg399%2F1479%2Fu438vv0.jpg&hash=67d8418c611108262bc0beaa0119302cf34f0fff)

Motorists trying to reach 61 from 340 generally need to use Tarentum to access it.  TDOT is currently working on engineering a new interchange to allow for direct access between the two highways, but it is likely to be an expensive and lengthy project.

Going back to the other end of the freeway, now--here's an overview of the new Isthmus Avenue interchange, looking north. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg367.imageshack.us%2Fimg367%2F6883%2Fu439lb0.jpg&hash=ad65214dfa212be5f163181e58ca106e08f591b5)

And here's a mosaic of Highway 340 right as it goes through downtown, facing east.  The three overpasses, going from top to bottom, are Grevano Drive, Argentum Boulevard and Stone Avenue.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg392.imageshack.us%2Fimg392%2F6605%2Fu43mosaic11rk9.jpg&hash=f86dded15f6be86eff67cf9284310d95c05b8cb6)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg124.imageshack.us%2Fimg124%2F4311%2Fu43mosaic12bc6.jpg&hash=35e8fbb224ff78cc8290a0df5768ae9fce709aa8)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg124.imageshack.us%2Fimg124%2F298%2Fu43mosaic13cv8.jpg&hash=50d8228b4fcbe24a342beef2495bd93d8698d241)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg377.imageshack.us%2Fimg377%2F369%2Fu43mosaic14gp5.jpg&hash=eadc86ee5d56a59c89825618169cb8743f96e7c8)

Finally, here's a map of this whole section of Highway 340, showing all the ramps and the Collector-Distributor (C/D) lanes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg124.imageshack.us%2Fimg124%2F7151%2Fu43highway340diagramgw1.th.jpg&hash=8736c59d8c0174788f5d1f291bf4e2ff9f7b3a59) (http://img124.imageshack.us/my.php?image=u43highway340diagramgw1.jpg)

Much more construction to come soon. The storm is not about to let up. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: debutterfly on December 18, 2008, 06:31:13 AM
hey Alex love your maps. I just got done with my term at the Uni as well last Friday. During the break I'm interning at a company but I'm still keeping up to date with your MD and other NAM affiliated things. Love your maps. What you could of done with your maps is make the overpasses more visible. Like putting dark lines where the overpass ouccurs. Like this
    |      This will help those who are hard of seeing (cough couch...me)  ::) to view your maps with friendlier eyes.  ;) Anyway keep up the good work.
=|||=
    |

Larry
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: bat on December 18, 2008, 08:36:50 AM
As always - your new update is great! :thumbsup: Wonderful pictures...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: Haljackey on December 18, 2008, 09:21:01 AM
Somehow I knew you were going to display the RHW-6C in this update.  Nice work!

That sunken "cross-section" is quite impressive, and I like how you used a mosaic to capture the sheer awesomeness of it. 

And, as always, I love your road maps!  A truly impressive update to say the very least!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on December 18, 2008, 01:31:21 PM
Great update Alex!

Nice construction shots, and that RHW-6C looks fantastic!  :o :o :o Oh my you have no idea how much I want that.  :D

Love the mosiac, and the map's great as usual.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: nerdly_dood on December 18, 2008, 02:32:47 PM
You truly are a highway genius, Tarkus - you're about the only one I know of who makes a point to show pictures of highways under construction.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: Jmouse on December 18, 2008, 04:21:23 PM
Great to see a new update, Alex! Your step-by-step explanations are always fascinating to see. In fact, it seems there are several developing trends in the MD section with show-and-tell one of the most welcome and interesting.

Glad to hear you finished your uni term in good form. I've watched my daughter and son-in-law struggle with work and school for several years now, so I have an idea of how much effort it takes.

Anyway, hope maybe you'll find time to tear up another road or two during the holiday break! :D
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: Pat on December 18, 2008, 07:05:23 PM
Hey Alex so far so good no accidents yet lol!!! Love the revamp wow sweeeeeeeeet!!!!

NEW edit:  You know what today I just noticed something totaly new that has freaked me out is them poor construction crews by the lake shore seem to be fighting a up hill errr cliff battle!!! Danng your mean Alex lol!!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: EDGE4194 on December 22, 2008, 07:38:47 PM
nice history of hwy 340 and great highway map. nice to have you back  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: Simpson on December 23, 2008, 02:27:40 AM
Hi Alex   :)
This new update is so wonderful, as well  &apls
Also the RHW is superb  :thumbsup:. I'm looking forward to the next update

Take care my friend, David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: thundercrack83 on December 23, 2008, 12:38:04 PM
Wow, Alex!

I'm having trouble find the words, my friend! The planning you put into the construction alone is more planning that most people put into the highways themselves! And by "most people," I mean State Departments of Transportation!

If you worked for PennDOT, the interstates here in PA wouldn't have moon-sized craters in them!

Take care, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: cowcorn on December 24, 2008, 12:38:19 PM
This is really great! &apls Seeing that makes me very eager to play the new RHW...  :) Just a dumb question while I'm at it: Where did you get the smooth curves for road? I had them before I went on rebuilding my plugins but I can't remember where i got them.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: sim_link on January 02, 2009, 07:46:13 AM
Hey Tarkus,

Awesome contructoin pictures! :thumbsup: The finished highway looks great. :o
The road map looks amazing too, very creative. :)

Awesome job,
-sim_link
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 43--12/18/2008--The Storm Arrives--as a Freeway)
Post by: TheTeaCat on January 20, 2009, 05:03:28 AM
Wonderful demonstration of your skills.
just how long does it take to lay all the construction lots, demolish them and then lay the highway.
You must have more patient than a saint :D :D

As for the road map  &apls

Please continue to amaze me ;D
:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: Tarkus on January 21, 2009, 06:12:20 PM
Well, Tarkusian Cities is finally back with the first update of 2009.  We're going to visit Los Endos again this update, to see the construction on Los Endos Boulevard in the fast-growing Foothill area east of downtown. 

But first . . . some replies.

Larry (debutterfly):  Thanks for the kind words on the map, and for the great suggestion as well!  I used to mark the overpasses awhile ago, but never found a format I quite liked.  I'll have to mess around with it some more, but I'll phase in some sort of marking here soon.  Hope you enjoyed your break as well!

bat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

Haljackey:  Hehe . . . I've wanted to show off that RHW-6C for awhile now . . . that stretch of highway was actually a big inspiration behind many of the features that eventually went into the mod.  Had to get rid of that Maxis Highway. :D  Thanks for the compliments on the map as well!

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the update, and I hope you're enjoying the RHW-6C!  I may have to include more mosaics, too, in future updates.  ;)

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the all too kind words--I've always just been fascinated with road and highway construction for ages.  May be residual environmental effect of being born in a hospital next to an interchange that was being redesigned at the time.  :D 

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks, I'm glad to see others enjoy the nitty-gritty end of transport projects as well!  Hopefully I'll be able to spend a little more time here on Tarkusian Cites now that the RHW is out, too. 

Pat:  Yes, so far so good--the new highway's proven to be quite safe, though that Tarentum Lane at-grade intersection worries me.  ;)  And TDOT, too.  Thanks for the compliments on the revamp--I'm quite pleased with how it came out, too. 

And those construction crews are actually rather relieved to be working on that project--many of them are veterans of the "drunken engineer" era. :D

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the overview of Highway 340--you'll be seeing a fair amount more of it soon as well.  And hopefully, I'll be able to make this more than a sporadic thing here soon.  :)

David (Simpson):  I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it--thanks!

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thank you so much for the all-too-kind words, my friend.  I can't help it with the planning end--heck, I'm sure you'll see me tearing it up again in a future update, though.  I always find something to improve somewhere. 

And the City of Eugene Public Works isn't much better than PennDOT--I've just about tripped a few times crossing the street because of giant potholes.  Of course, TDOT gets a pretty large share of its government's budget . . . whatever government that happens to be.  Where TDOT's jurisdiction actually is has remained a mystery, kind of like Springfield on "The Simpsons" (which, I maintain, is just across the Willamette River in Springfield, Oregon)--one of these days, I might have to actually reveal that.

cowcorn:  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I hope you're enjoying the new RHW now!  The Road Curves are now under the Road Curves/Fractional Angle Road button in the new January 2009 NAM.

sim_link:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction and the maps!  Plenty more of both to come this update. :)

Derry (TheTeaCat):  Thank you for the kind words, and that's a good question with the construction lots. It used to take me awhile at first, but I've gotten so used to it now that it goes by quickly--or at least, it seems to go by quickly. :D 

I'm glad you enjoyed the map, and hopefully, this update will be at least somewhat amazing. :D

____________________________________________________________________________________
CITY OF LOS ENDOS PUBLIC WORKS
Los Endos Boulevard Widening Project--65th to Leonard

This project will widen Los Endos Boulevard from 2 to 4 lanes between NE 65th Street and SE Leonard Lane in the Foothill area on the east side of the city.  Foothill is one of the fastest growing areas in the Los Endos area and will soon be home to many new residential construction projects.  Los Endos Boulevard, being the only east-west arterial in the area, aside from the Desert Lakes Highway (Highway 94), is expected to be subjected to a heavy load of traffic, and motorists are already experiencing significant congestion.

Map of vicinity:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg292.imageshack.us%2Fimg292%2F4039%2Flosendos22mapu44qh6.th.png&hash=7d54ad8387e92ce507e0601147f212be8f8f9bf6) (http://img292.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos22mapu44qh6.png)

This is the existing intersection of NE 65th Street and E Los Endos Blvd.  Part of the roadway here has already been widened to 4 lanes from a previous project. (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg502.imageshack.us%2Fimg502%2F1985%2Fu4407ln5.jpg&hash=f1b0ed5767ed3c6e24a32c79210649de4b8a5acd)

Existing intersection of SE Los Endos Blvd at SE Radio Terrace (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg299.imageshack.us%2Fimg299%2F2223%2Fu4402ia5.jpg&hash=f1402843fab19f67c44176fb19fce1a782219370)

Existing 90-degree bend on Los Endos, just east of 65th (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg516.imageshack.us%2Fimg516%2F5211%2Fu4408nr6.jpg&hash=628d5f7d2a110bd3d30a4da08aeaa6bb7a5c48f0)

Existing intersection of SE Los Endos Blvd at SE Leonard Lane, the project's southern boundary (looking east) (Also note the name of the road to the north of Leonard on the map . . . ::))

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg177.imageshack.us%2Fimg177%2F3420%2Fu4412kl3.jpg&hash=61e46503566872986d9cf6ba3185fbffe8198275)

A temporary alignment is constructed while the wider curve is being constructed (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg413.imageshack.us%2Fimg413%2F8045%2Fu4404jv1.jpg&hash=a58160f1d3d5ff25d111564988d5bb0f9c5b70d0)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg249.imageshack.us%2Fimg249%2F3657%2Fu4405vd7.jpg&hash=50089e69f37fb24bc26ce08568d047132456a838)

More work being done near Leonard Lane (looking east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F2661%2Fu4406tz3.jpg&hash=0f09946dcb735a2b01afc862dd71c85a2c2f4df3)


The finished product at the 65th Street intersection (looking east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg185.imageshack.us%2Fimg185%2F2199%2Fu4401it7.jpg&hash=3ed2800fb02ecf3921b8c869d2921e8f8be82475)

The new 90-degree bend, with the detour route still faintly visible (looking east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg299.imageshack.us%2Fimg299%2F7952%2Fu4414wd2.jpg&hash=231c60e5edcb36997d5317365ac4a893e6a8dc52)

The finished Leonard Lane intersection.  The city decided to get a little jump start and widened a short stretch south of Leonard:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg294.imageshack.us%2Fimg294%2F4638%2Fu4413ff8.jpg&hash=902c3a1b1690d076bb86f162fb289e88b83f4395)

You may have also noticed a "Jan Haskins Parkway" on the map . . . you'll be seeing that in one of the next couple updates as well.  TDOT and the City of Los Endos are trying to get a jumpstart on the massive influx of new Foothill residents.

-Alex (Tarkus)



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: Haljackey on January 21, 2009, 07:35:56 PM
Whoa nice work on that road construction Alex!

May I suggest to you a texture for the avenue curves?  I think that 90 degree avenue curve would look better if you had a base for it.  sithlrd98 has made a lot of them on the STEX.  You can find his work HERE (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?page=1&Keyword=sithlrd98&view=all).

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: metarvo on January 21, 2009, 07:55:13 PM
I was beginning to wonder if TDOT had run out of money.  :D  The update and its accompanying map look great as always, Alex.  It looks like Los Endos Blvd. really needed the widening, but that is the reason that TDOT did it, isn't it?  This is the work of a true transit legend.

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: JoeST on January 21, 2009, 10:44:37 PM
AWESOME is the only word I can think of this early in the morning, to how truly amazing your city looks :)

Thanks for sharing

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: bat on January 22, 2009, 12:15:29 PM
Nice work there on another construction! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on January 22, 2009, 12:32:24 PM
Nice widening project, I can tell it needed it, and the finished product looks great!

And I can't wait to see that new highway...  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: Jmouse on January 22, 2009, 05:08:37 PM
Glad to see the construction signs up again, Alex! Also pleased to find I haven't forgotten how to follow a project on the map, and you haven't forgotten how to make them happen! :D

The new avenue looks great
and will surely serve the motorists well. In that photo of the finished Leonard Lane widening project, it looks like the terrain was flattened a bit, but it's hard to tell. Just wondering.

One of these days when I finally get a proper region started I hope I'll be able to apply some of the things I've learned here. Hoping to see some of the new elements show up too!

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: bakerton on January 23, 2009, 03:25:13 PM
Tis the season for more construction projects. I do like this project as it relieves traffic so you won't spend hours waiting in traffic. Awesome job on everything Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: art128 on January 24, 2009, 12:17:27 AM
What a nice development there Alex, I'm always in love with t-your road network ! &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 44--1/21/2009--Los Endos Blvd Widening-Foothill)
Post by: warconstruct on January 24, 2009, 11:55:28 AM
Splendid work on your networks of road transport! I congratulate you  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Tarkus on January 24, 2009, 08:23:48 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another installment here, following further construction in the Foothill area of Los Endos. 

But first, replies:

Haljackey:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction and thanks for the suggestion as well.  I've been meaning to check out Jayson's (sithlrd98) for some time now--he's done an excellent job.

metarvo:  LOL--good one.  All those Argentum projects did take a toll on TDOT's ability to spend money in other areas, though.  Thanks for the kind words on the map, and the citizens of that area are quite happy about the widening, too--though as you'll soon see, it still won't be enough to contain all the traffic.

Joe (JoeST):  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it!  And I can completely sympathize with the morning thing--I'm useless until I get caffeine.

bat:  Thanks for the kind words!

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and yes, it definitely did need it.  Right now with further development I've done on it, it's kind of looking like a good TLA-7 candidate.  :D 

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the welcome back--it's good to have TDOT back up and running here.  And my Inkscape skills are still in pretty good shape, since I also use very similar techniques to what I do with the maps on my RHW textures.  Good eye on the texture flattening, too--I'm fairly certain it did get leveled a little there.  Not nearly as much leveling as needed to be done with some of the stuff you'll see in the next couple updates, though.

And I'll be very curious to see what you come up with for your new region, too.  Judging by what you did with Wildcat Junction, I'm sure it will be amazing!

Jon (bakerton):  'Tis indeed!  We have a saying here in Western Oregon that there's only two seasons--Rainy Season and Road Construction Season.  :D  (Though actually, right now, it's the former, though it's been clear for most of the past week.)  Thanks for the kind words!

Arthur (art128):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

warconstruct:  Thanks for the kind words--plenty more road construction to come, too! :)

_______________________________________________________________________________________
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg232.imageshack.us%2Fimg232%2F1423%2Ftdothighway9450pxjr7.jpg&hash=049e047145498fa926c8eb0f2351454735e1db93) Northeast 65th Street Interchange Improvement

This project will construct a conventional diamond interchange along Highway 94 at Northeast 65th Street in Los Endos, in addition to making improvements to 65th Street between Highway 94 and Los Endos Boulevard.

Highway 94, the Desert Lakes Highway, is a major east-west highway through the Los Endos area and is in the process of being upgraded to freeway standard, to help accommodate the massive population growth in the region.  At the time of this project, however, only the Highway 33/18th Street and 50th Street crossings have been grade-separated.  65th Street currently meets Highway 94 with an at-grade intersection, which has become extremely dangerous with recent residential and commercial expansion in East Los Endos.  The project will also aid the City of Los Endos' transportation plan, which proposes making 65th Street a major north-south arterial.

Existing 65th Street/Los Endos Boulevard intersection (facing north).  As you can see in this pic, 65th is appears to be a rather inconsequential road with a mere 25mph speed limit.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg144.imageshack.us%2Fimg144%2F4273%2Fu4501hz9.png&hash=0f8757f4773444d2da4072ee01291527354ad9b0)

The at-grade crossing with Highway 94 has already been demolished on the south side, and a temporary alignment to access the north side has been built, to allow access while the overpass is being built (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg177.imageshack.us%2Fimg177%2F629%2Fu4504wz6.png&hash=a9876aa2093c515c81f92a86cd603f68cec2f0c7)

Work on the overpass.  65th is being widened from 2 to 4 lanes between the new interchange and Los Endos to accommodate the anticipated traffic load upon opening.  (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg297.imageshack.us%2Fimg297%2F2222%2Fu4506ea1.png&hash=788438a7c0d00904583ba9fb28eefc7f4c7f0843)

To prevent further traffic congestion, and to allow for a nice smooth grade up to the overpass, 65th is being elevated over Still Street, eliminating the intersection.  Motorists will use Waverly Street to the south to access Still from 65th (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F1011%2Fu4507ew7.png&hash=90bfa895e0ae94668f08e49001cfd92b35d703b1)

The overpass is now completed across Highway 94 and ready to be connected to the northern section of 65th (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg299.imageshack.us%2Fimg299%2F4739%2Fu4509kl6.png&hash=f78ba7f392739d8d285fb8dd17249aefec35fef5)

The connection completed (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F7989%2Fu4510ra5.png&hash=852f0848f2f7f2762329aaf24cfe2fa8fc828afb)

The ramps from the highway are being built (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg441.imageshack.us%2Fimg441%2F3137%2Fu4512kd8.png&hash=ceda1c442c7469fd4cff10a529d722da0114b134)

The ramps are now completed and the interchange is effectively open (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg264.imageshack.us%2Fimg264%2F3749%2Fu4513mh2.png&hash=27eca5300c780882fcb22779511a727e778bd75b)

Landscaping has been finished, and the land on the north side of the intersection has already attracted commercial development.  In the second pic, you'll notice a small retention pond (both facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg259.imageshack.us%2Fimg259%2F5052%2Fu4514ay3.png&hash=580ef853bbc3f10e001a5cee60513d5769df4f09)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg502.imageshack.us%2Fimg502%2F5018%2Fu4515in8.png&hash=877944a1d52c8c85c2e9bf90309cdf485e3881bc)

65th Street just south of the interchange with the improvements in place (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg520.imageshack.us%2Fimg520%2F3113%2Fu4516nb4.png&hash=aa6254c606bcb4e15892a5ec7369f3a0ccd5c297)

A map of the finished product:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg239.imageshack.us%2Fimg239%2F7941%2Flosendos22mapu45ul3.th.png&hash=7d2392f49601921f445ef8100480627148e52088) (http://img239.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos22mapu45ul3.png)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  Next update, we'll be looking at some other improvement projects in East Los Endos, including the start of the new Jan Haskins Parkway (named after our 600th poster, Swamper77).

-Alex (Tarkus)

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Ryan B. on January 24, 2009, 08:36:37 PM
Such realistic interchange design . . . . . . and the realistic aspect of ripping it up when it doesn't work right.  :P

Nice work, Alex . . . . . you're one of the grand masters at this highway stuff.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: pilotdaryl on January 24, 2009, 08:59:44 PM
You have impressed me!
BIG-TIME! ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on January 24, 2009, 09:27:06 PM
Wow, I'm liking these back-to-back updates.  ;D

Nice interchange there! And that retention pond is a great idea! I'll have to try that out on one.

I don't really like the walls in the last pic though. I would have either left the tiles empty or filled it in with zoning.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Sciurus on January 25, 2009, 02:47:53 AM
It's very nice to show us how you build your city. Good work :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: sim_link on January 25, 2009, 07:22:09 AM
Well Tarkusian Cities sure is living up to it's name as the "MD that's always under construction" :P

Great job, both updates are awesome. :thumbsup: The construction process seems very realistic. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: alexr19 on January 25, 2009, 10:00:39 AM
Fantastic!  This is one of the most realistic CJ I've ever seen. Bravo!  &apls

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg144.imageshack.us%2Fimg144%2F4273%2Fu4501hz9.png&hash=0f8757f4773444d2da4072ee01291527354ad9b0)

a couple of questions: how do you create the "stop sign-less" road/street intersections? and where can I find the houses and the powerlines?

thanks!


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: EDGE4194 on January 26, 2009, 07:19:44 AM
alex- fantastic improvement projects  &apls  I agree with haljackey about the curve textures, that's why i don't use them. Fantastic interchange at Hwy 94 & NE 65th. I love the retaining pond! Nice touch that I hadn't even thought of before, yet you see them regularly in RL. Looking forward to see the new parkway take shape.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Haljackey on January 26, 2009, 09:02:36 AM
Yay more road construction!  I really liked how you put those raised avenue pieces to use Alex.  I've never seen them used in a combination like that before.

Nice work!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Jmouse on January 26, 2009, 04:38:06 PM
Wow, perfectly simple and logical layout with excellent results. As you mentioned earlier, there was a lot of dirt moving involved here, but worth the trouble for the overall improvement in mobility.

I'm curious to know
whether or not the Sims living nearest the newly-expanded 65th St. project will start complaining about traffic noise. I don't know if that's an especially reliable indicator, though. I've seen them complain lots of times when there's no apparent reason.

Anyway, this is an excellent piece of construction work – well presented – that TDOT can be proud of. :thumbsup:

Later, but hopefully not too much later... :)
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: BigSlark on January 26, 2009, 07:50:41 PM
Alex,

Great interchanges and intersections, as usual. You capture Eastern Oregon in a way that makes feel like I'm actually there!

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: threestooges on January 27, 2009, 04:45:20 PM
Alex, your attention to detail is always impressive, both in the content you make, and the way you use it. I like the gentle slopes in the roads/highways, and some of them just look so smooth. How much preparation of the land is done beforehand, aside from all the work done by the TDOT that's in the pics? Sorry I've been a bit quiet around here, but I have been keeping an eye on things, and I like it. Hope all is well.
-Matt

-alexr19: The power poles are most likely Power Poles by Fukuda at the STEX (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=16152). As for the houses, I've seen them before I think, but I don't know where.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: LE0 on February 07, 2009, 08:05:32 AM
sweet MD and it looks better than maxis construction where the buldozers just run over the road once. :)

btw may i suggest more realistic overpasses by using T Onslopes and then bulldozing the T and the grass would go all the way to the overpass.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on February 07, 2009, 09:12:52 AM
Wow , Your Highway creations always seem to amaze me  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: bakerton on February 11, 2009, 03:32:16 PM
One word Alex, Amazing. I just love your work and Wisconsin has three seasons: Winter, Tourists and Construction. The last two togather. In March, WiDOT will widen Interstate 94/US 41 from Illinois to Milwaukee going from 6 lanes total to 8 lanes total. Costs over $1 billion to do. Oh I almost forgot, how much does it cost to rebuild the roads here in Tarkusian Cities? I bet nothing.Keep on constructing Alex.  JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: j-dub on February 12, 2009, 10:13:40 AM
Hey Alex, look out below. I noticed the draggable avenue to road transition could be improved without taking more than 2 tiles as below.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F8202%2Ftarkusianmergeediter2.jpg&hash=f5db3eb11150d02fcca9994104188b6131250ddc)

And yes, your city is used as an example. This is not even the same one as the VS avenue road retexture, just an example of how different mathematicals could be used.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Battlecat on February 12, 2009, 07:26:45 PM
Wow!  This is amazing work you've done here!  The showcase of the rural highways is fantastic to see and I like how you're presenting this as an evolution of a growing city. 

Actually, the style you are presenting with road realignment and temporary haul roads for highway construction is eerily realistic.  They've come up quite frequently at work for me recently with two major bridge projects going in at the borders of the community I work for.  The only thing you're really missing is the upset residents yelling at you over the counter at city hall because they don't want the highway in their neighborhood or because higher levels of government expropriated a corridor through their property.  &mmm

I think I prefer your way over the reality!  ;)  Keep up the great work, I'll be keeping an eye out! 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: darraghf on February 15, 2009, 11:13:41 AM
When can we see a new update Tarkus????
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: sim-al2 on February 16, 2009, 10:58:24 AM
Patience. ;) I'm sure Tarkus is busy with other important things.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: warconstruct on February 16, 2009, 12:04:06 PM
Very good job ! bravo  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 45--1/24/2009--Highway 94/65th Street Interchange)
Post by: Pat on February 17, 2009, 11:49:03 PM
Hey Alex I loved that update back in January for the NE interchange, I do hope all is well and we'll see a new update soon!!! I am soo missing my fix of TDOT and the mussings of the head engineer!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Tarkus on February 18, 2009, 07:37:21 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm finally back with an update. ;)

We'll be looking at a few various projects around East Los Endos in the Tartan and Foothill areas, with a particular focus on some of the widening projects in Tartan.

But first, replies:

Ryan (burgsabre87):  Thanks for the kind words--and ripping it all up again is the fun part.  :D  I can guarantee you that won't be the last construction you see at Highway 94 and 65th. 

pilotdaryl: Thanks for the big compliment! :)

deathtopumpkins:  Hehe . . . I really should do more back-to-back updates.  Perhaps once I get stuff shored up a little more with RL and the RHW, I'll be able to.  I'm glad you enjoyed the little retention pond touch--we have them all over the place here, too.  And thanks for the constructive feedback on the retaining walls--I agree with you there. ;)

Sciurus:  Thanks, I'm glad you're enjoying the construction.  There will be plenty of more to come. ;)

sim_link:  I'm glad to hear I'm living up to my little disclaimer there.  It is rare that I don't have something under construction here--I always find something with the road system that needs a little tweaking here or there.  And thanks for the kind words on the updates--I'm glad you enjoyed them, and hope you like this one as well!

alexr19:  Thanks!  Glad you have been enjoying it, and to answer your questions, the houses are some of SimGoober's low-wealth residentials (should be in one of the residential packs on the LEX), and the stopsign-less intersections are kind of the result of a couple mods.  I was using the Street Addon Mod (SAM) with jeronij's Streetside Mod (SSM) for SAM there (both on the LEX).  And as threestooges pointed out, those are Fukuda's powerpoles from the STEX.

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you found the interchange there to your liking, and I was really pleased with how that retention pond came out, too.  First time I've built one of those--I just absolutely love how versatile jeronij's canals are.  As far as the parkway goes, you'll get to see a little bit of it this update.

Haljackey:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!  That interchange was a little tricky to figure out with that neighborhood so close by there, but I'm quite pleased with how it came out.  Those elevated pieces really did the trick there.  Leave it to TDOT with their "context-sensitive solutions".   :D

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm glad you like the end result there--I was actually surprised at just how much dirt I ended up moving there.  So far, the sims aren't too upset about the project--they're getting some retaining walls, and other than the mildly unhappy folks on NE Still Street who are right next to the elevated section, everyone else seems to be happy with what TDOT's done.  After all, it makes their commutes easier. 

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed this latest project!   And I'm glad you're enjoying the Eastern Oregon-like setting.  My favorite part of the country by far, I'd say.  One of these days I'm going to have to write up a backstory or figure out just where the cities are located.  I've kind of envisioned "Tarkusia" as being part of an alternate universe country in the "ION country" (Idaho-Oregon-Nevada--hence the section of US-95 called the "ION Highway"), but haven't officially decided.

threestooges:  Thank you for the all-too-kind words, my friend!  I probably did a bunch of hole-digging lot use there with that interchange--I use Shadow Assassin's 15m Raiser/Lowerer lots on a very regular basis.  Getting the slope on the Elevated end south of the freeway was probably the trickiest part. 

LE0:  Thanks, glad you've enjoyed the construction end of things.  Thanks for the suggestion with the On-Slope piece . . . I hadn't thought of that before.

Corey (Nexis):  Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed it!

Jon (bakerton):  Hehe . . . you guys sound like you have more seasons in Wisconsin than we do here.  Of course, this year, we actually got a real Winter this year instead of just rain--2 feet of snow on the west side of Portland at Christmas, which is by far the most snow I've ever seen this side of Oregon in my 23 years. 

I'm glad to hear WiDOT's investing in I-94, too.  How long of a stretch is that?  I'd imagine for $1 billion, quite a good stretch.  May have to check that project out.  I'm not sure what all TDOT spends, but quite a bit.  They are quite well-funded, so that interchange project was cheap compared to some stuff they will be doing.  Thanks for the kind words, and hope you enjoy the latest construction!

j-dub:  Thanks for the suggestion--that's a rather interesting one there, and I think it looks better than the existing Maxis one (which I've disliked since Day One).  One of these days, I'll have to release that extended transition puzzle piece, too. ;)

Battlecat:  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it, and thanks for sharing your RL experience with construction projects--I always enjoy having a dialog with folks about that here.  The dynamics of NIMBYism can always be a rather interesting (and frustrating) thing.  Fortunately, the citizens in the various cities are amazingly tolerant of all of TDOT's myriad of construction projects, though not always. ;) 

darraghf: Now. :D

warconstruct:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it !

Pat: Thanks for the kind words and for thinking of me and Tarkusian Cities.  Your wish shall be fulfilled here. ;)

____________________________________________________________

This update will examine a few of the projects around eastern Los Endos, most of them undertaken by the city's public works department.

Development near Los Endos Boulevard, at the section that was just widened in Update 44.  (looking east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F5774%2Fu461sy4.jpg&hash=8beeb9305d2fa765b2a3ab3136193729dfe4237c)

In order to accommodate further development in the Foothill area, the rest of Los Endos Boulevard will get widened as well.  This is near SE 71st Court. (looking south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F2533%2Fu462kz5.jpg&hash=e67401d34c4f962ff39915dec4eb0c4a9c25559c)

This here is Highway 94 about a mile east of the NE 65th Street Interchange from last time.  That little bit of dirt being moved around there is the start of the Jan Haskins Parkway. (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F7503%2Fu463ab8.jpg&hash=c456cebc9e52a42529a8bd4e915b2008818eb95b)

As you can see in this pic, it's a little farther along now.  (looking east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F8460%2Fu464ci5.jpg&hash=86af9e37ca6332aef11d72274bd2b925c8e6d150)

This is the start of the south end of the parkway, where it will intersect with Los Endos Boulevard.  Lots of explosives involved in carving out part of the cliff there.  ::)  (looking east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F6049%2Fu465wa2.jpg&hash=e5576508b69a0228d7416eb27734996570d76813)

Now we'll be heading over to the Tartan area, which is on the peninsula shown in the map from last update.  This is the existing intersection of SE Memo Road and SE Gehrts Way.  These are the two main arterials through the Tartan area, and as such, they need widening quite badly.  Hence, the City of Los Endos has embarked upon the Tartan Corridor project.  (looking north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F2335%2Fu466oq4.jpg&hash=0b5ad0064a4281bbc8d65553ca6954edc3a03bc7)

This is Gehrts Way just to the west of the intersection in the previous image.  (looking north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F5557%2Fu467qg6.jpg&hash=57bd0d37aeb59d1a887bd8d1fb1a41c1e05837db)

Just north of that bend, Gehrts turns into SE 50th Street, which has an interchange with Highway 94 about 1.5 miles north.  The track and field there is part of Tartan High School. (looking north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F584%2Fu468zr5.jpg&hash=a5464db6853f53d2119a933b2503c01b9bfc2a28)

Work begins at the Gehrts/Memo intersection. (looking north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F7168%2Fu469eh0.jpg&hash=abb6996835868f010bbf307258b35e7e57f8a789)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  More construction ahead. ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: metarvo on February 18, 2009, 08:03:27 PM
It looks like development is booming as always.  However, I noticed that you attributed the eastern Los Endos construction projects to the public works department.  Does this mean that TDot is staying out of it in the Tartan area, or are they still overseeing the construction here?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Ryan B. on February 18, 2009, 08:13:21 PM
Know what rhymes with 'Tartan'?

Spartan!

Could there be a '300' billboard in there somewhere?   :P

Naw, just joshin'.  Great job, as always, Alex.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Pat on February 18, 2009, 09:21:06 PM
WoooHooo!!! Update and see I guess it does help to post in here to get a little more destruc eeerrr construction going on here lol.... Great new update here Alex and I will look forward to the next update!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Haljackey on February 18, 2009, 10:38:37 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on February 18, 2009, 07:37:21 PM
More construction ahead. ;)

Now how many times have we heard that?  :P  Anyways good luck with all your construction projects, they all look very interesting!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Jmouse on February 19, 2009, 12:15:47 AM
My my, TDOT has some busy days ahead - much to the delight of this loyal follower! :) The Jan Haskins Pkwy. is a huge undertaking that will be very interesting to watch. I'm looking forward to seeing how it intersects with E Los Endos, and especially anxious to see what happens when it reaches 94. Also wondering if that dip in the road will be retained - TDOT seems to prefer level ground in many cases.

At first glance, the Tartan area project appears to be more straight forward and thus easier to work through. But that's just a first glance by an amateur! After SE Gehrts Way changes to SE 50th St., the next major crossing is E Los Endos - an overpass maybe? Sorry, don't recall if there's already one in place &mmm. If I'm going to get the full benefit of studying your work, guess I need to go back and take notes on past projects, eh.

Another good update
with lots of interesting projects coming up - what more could anyone ask for! :thumbsup:
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Sciurus on February 19, 2009, 02:39:27 AM
Still nice city &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: art128 on February 19, 2009, 04:42:09 AM
It's always a pleasure to see your network Alex, it's always still awesome !  &apls
Full of genius things my friend !

Can't wait the next update,

Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: bat on February 19, 2009, 07:45:41 AM
Two fantastic updates there! Great constructions of these roads!!
Nice work!
Looking forward to more... :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: Battlecat on February 19, 2009, 10:13:50 AM
A most excellent update!  Those new roads need to get punched through, it sure looks like traffic is heavy along some of those routes in your latest update! 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on February 19, 2009, 01:16:07 PM
Wow, lots of projects on the board for TDOT! Can't wait to see them done...

And is that the top of the interface I see in the last pic?  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: LE0 on February 19, 2009, 03:52:41 PM
Finally another update!  ;D

PS Whats the field in 2nd to last pic and TPed trees?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: bakerton on February 19, 2009, 08:54:37 PM
First, Beautiful construction. It looks great with everything. Second, The streach of I-94 is 35 miles long from Illinois State Line to I-894 and the
$1 Billion includes new Frontage Roads, new Interchanges, and the widening. 95% of the funds are federal and 5% is State funded. Now I have to find a new way to work as I work near the Interstate and the Frontage Roads. Will be waiting for the next update. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: EDGE4194 on February 23, 2009, 07:32:28 PM
Looks like the TDOT is busy as usual. Glad to see your state's budget seems to be healthy  ;D Looks like that nice estate is pic 8 had been abandoned... too much dust from the construction perhaps?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 46--2/18/2009--Tartan Corridor and Other Projects)
Post by: debutterfly on February 26, 2009, 09:39:52 AM
Hey Alex. Nice Update.  :thumbsup: Was just wondering where you get those concrete road embankments, not the sound barriers. Alway have wanted realistic embankments for roads.  ;)

-Larry (debutterfly)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Tarkus on March 17, 2009, 11:31:50 PM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities is finally back with some more construction.  We'll be finishing up the Jan Haskins Parkway project and take a look at some more of the Tartan Corridor Project improvements underway.

But first, some replies:

metarvo: Yes, it is definitely booming--this eastern part is particularly a hotbed for new residential development.  And as far as your excellent question about the various transportation jurisdictions, the Tartan Corridor Project is being done by City of Los Endos Public Works because all the roads involved are city streets.  There's no numbered highways involved, so TDOT didn't allocate any funding.  However, as you'll eventually see, the traffic gets bad enough that TDOT ends up having to intervene on some rather pricey projects. ;)  Thanks for asking!

Ryan (burgsabre87): LOL--that's a good one.  I might have been subconsciously thinking that on some level when naming the area.  Thanks for the kind words!

Pat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I hope you enjoy the continuation of the various projects this time around!

Haljackey:  Plenty of times.  And you'll here it plenty more times, too.  I'm going to see if I can get it to catch on like the infamous "i-word" that I shan't mention. :D  Thanks for the good luck wishes--TDOT and Los Endos will need them. ::)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks, I'm glad you found the various projects interesting!  And thanks for the great detailed comments/questions as well!  The Jan Haskins Parkway was indeed a rather large undertaking, mainly because of the topography, and you'll get to see the end results here this update.  As far as the Tartan project, you're actually exactly right--it's basically some straightforward widening, with a little re-alignment on the Memo Road end of things.  As you'll see here, the city kind of made a bit of a slalom during the construction.

The 50th/Los Endos intersection is actually just a signalized 4-way intersection between two TLA-5s . . . you'll see it in one of the next couple updates.  50th does, however, have an interchange with Highway 94, which will get increasingly busy with some of the development coming to the north side of the highway.

Guillaume (Sciurus): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you like it!

Arthur (art128):  Thank you for the all-too-kind words, my friend.  Hope you enjoy Update 47!

bat:  Thanks for the compliments on the construction--there's certainly more to come. ;)

Battlecat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and yes, these roads definitely need to get punched through!  There will be quite a few extension/realignment/widening projects in the East Los Endos area that you'll be seeing here soon.  It's an area that's undergoing some very rapid changes, particularly with all the residential development that sprung up almost overnight. 

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks for the great comment.  And as far as the projects go, most definitely--and this is just in Los Endos.  :)  They've got plenty of other cities to take care of, too.  There's literally a few hundred projects on their drawing board, and there's definitely a bit of a backlog, in fact.  Fortunately, TDOT's very well funded. ;) 

And yes, you caught me. ::)

LE0: Thanks, and if you're wondering about the sports field there at the high school, that's out of Chrisadams3997's Football Fields (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1721).  The TP'd trees are actually a Maxis thing.  Happens a fair amount in Los Endos, too . . . the supermarkets have mondo sales on Charmin, which exacerbates the situation. :D

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for the info on the I-94 project.  I can imagine that it does indeed create some inconvenience for awhile, but will more than likely be worth it in the end.  Sounds like they're getting quite a bit of freeway done with that $1 billion, too.  Oregon and Washington need to shop around, methinks, or pick more sensible projects.  :D  The cost estimate here on the I-5 Interstate Bridge replacement is a whopping $4.2 billion.

Eric (EDGE4194):  Yes, they most definitely are busy--and they'll have quite a bit to show for it here soon. :D  Good eye on the estate, though looking at the pic, it looks like construction hadn't started yet there.  Maybe the dust from the construction will actually fix it up. ::)  Thanks for the great comment!

Larry (debutterfly):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!  The embankments are from MAS71's JPN Wall Set 2 (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1504).  I'm using Texture 05, I believe.  My favorite embankment walls by far. :)

Now, back to the construction sites . . .

_____________________________________________________________
Map
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F5408%2Flosendos22mapu46.th.png&hash=adc67cc8e89d1fd933864928b7aaf6fae35e3bf4) (http://img10.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos22mapu46.png)

Let's begin by looking at some of the Tartan Corridor Project. 

Here is SE 50th Street near Tartan High School, as the widening is underway. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F93%2Fu471.jpg&hash=9419eab0f8ba9316e3d7dc24eccbb44a7a2588e5)

Here it is widened, with a new traffic signal at Tartan Way, the main access road to the school, just north of the point at which 50th curves and truns into SE Gehrts Way. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F1962%2Fu472.jpg&hash=2345c6d4d81f214e38235be1d8779112ab00a5f0)

Next, let's look at some of the work going on on SE Memo Road/57th Street.

Here's a mess of temporary alignments built to allow construction crews room to build the new roadway. (all facing north)

Near Hardy and Ivy Streets.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F391%2Fu473.jpg&hash=2e7946dac31ffa32403676b869a99dcf52d46d30)

Near Argentum Drive.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F2375%2Fu474.jpg&hash=879adccedcc5b9f579addfd33eef19540b419cd4)

Near Ilmore Street.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F4292%2Fu475.jpg&hash=ba93facf0f68d23e49f1330e260491d7e0ff0242)

Here's a look at the intersection of 57th and Los Endos Blvd upon completion of the project.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F3727%2Fu476.jpg&hash=193df4585361b70d6fadf94e2b0b1b4001ba6317)

Finally, let's move onto the Jan Haskins Parkway, a major limited access arterial in the Foothill area.  The City of Los Endos, with some assistance from TDOT, identified this rapidly growing part of the city as having a serious need for a new north-south arterial. 

Here, the overpass has been built over Highway 94, and grading has begun in preparation for the rest of the road to be built. (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F271%2Fu477.jpg&hash=993dc10b7e4086b9961514f78b08a37021fd0605)

The interchange with Highway 94 has been built in this pic.  (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg14.imageshack.us%2Fimg14%2F294%2Fu478.jpg&hash=1796ad1c78886821d14653264c527af048a7db89)

And here's some more recent images of the Jan Haskins Parkway after completion.  (You'll also notice I've switched over the region to my Wasco Terrain mod.)

This is the new Los Endos Boulevard/Jan Haskins Parkway intersection, the southern terminus of the new road. (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F4240%2Fu479.jpg&hash=6037d6b0d2c81c3f77a7fa00a4999907771ec4b6)

The one at-grade intersection with Foothill Terrace. (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F5025%2Fu4710.jpg&hash=e8c23fe63cfa7505ce13dd80fe7d03bfeccd573a)

The parkway was quite an engineering feat on TDOT's part, given the mountainous topography surrounding it.  Here are a couple images illustrating the relatively steep grade the road covers.  In the second pic, you'll notice a road that's not on the map.  It is a new east-west arterial called Broadvine Way, which you'll see more of in a future update. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg12.imageshack.us%2Fimg12%2F6946%2Fu4711.jpg&hash=ce3a762a6544f231b58160b27ca76a079904f24d)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F591%2Fu4712.jpg&hash=d22a369a6ca0a1756b6ace525fec9a6970440c72)

And that does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  More construction ahead . . .

-Alex


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Swamper77 on March 17, 2009, 11:45:18 PM
Looks like summer hit your area early, or you have some stimulus funds you're using. ;)

Hopefully, your commuters appreciate all the work you're putting in to make their commutes smoother. I think a few won't be happy that you have to remove their homes over by that cemetery. How does the TDOT and other agencies handle the relocation of residents if their houses need to be removed for a new roadway?

It also appears you have a few garbage problems in your region. I hope garbage pickup isn't being impacted too much by all the construction and "moving" roads.

-Jan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: dedgren on March 18, 2009, 12:02:54 AM
Very cool, Alex.  That's great use of SAM Set 7, too.  The integration is seamless.

Always on the lookout for a TC update, my friend.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: art128 on March 18, 2009, 12:17:40 AM
Always great to see some fabulous interchange in the morning when you get up..
Alex, I really enjoyed this update my friend, excellent RHW and interchange system.
I like the first picture, with that little stadium, it looks like soo real. The suburbs (if it's a suburbs ?) is greatly done.

Take Care,

Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: TmiguelT on March 18, 2009, 09:04:59 AM
Awesome update as usual. You and your updates are always inspiring for the Road Geek Society  &apls. I personally follow each update but i never posted anything before  ;D. Well never is too late  :). Great Work Alex!!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: carkid1998 on March 18, 2009, 09:09:45 AM

nice work!

was that a TLA-4??? from the NWM?? Which means it's ready?? ;) ;) :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Battlecat on March 18, 2009, 09:32:38 AM
Nice!  Everything is coming along quite nicely.  I really like the way you've set up that school, looks great!

It appears there is a bit of a garbage problem at at the intersection of 57th and Los Endos Blv (6th picture)!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: bat on March 18, 2009, 10:49:31 AM
Great as always! Wonderful new pictures of your fantastic work! Nice pictures of that RHW! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on March 18, 2009, 12:33:05 PM
Whew, still lots going on!

I really like that high school campus in the first few pictures... that a SAM street you made the parking lot out of? I might try and attempt something similar myself.

But I think that Jan Haskins Pkwy. is a little bit TOO steep! :P I'd be a bit nervous driving on it. It looks very cleverly designed though, especially the interchange with highway 94.

Lastly, I'm loving that terrain mod... I have a few regions it might look good on, and I can't wait to see the "more construction!"  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Pat on March 18, 2009, 01:38:38 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F3727%2Fu476.jpg&hash=193df4585361b70d6fadf94e2b0b1b4001ba6317)

Hey Alex has TDOT done anything about that trash there?? Or I am going to have to contact EPA about all that trash laying around there tisk tisk  $%Grinno$%

Anywho great update here and its always great to see what you are doing and all the projects going on!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: darraghf on March 18, 2009, 03:10:08 PM
Great Update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: bakerton on March 18, 2009, 03:19:17 PM
Awesome update Alex. It looks great. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Jmouse on March 18, 2009, 03:53:53 PM
Glad to see there's no shortage of construction jobs about town! I always enjoy the way you present these projects, showing the work in progress as opposed to a simple before-and-after approach. And this update is so straightforward, there are few questions left unanswered. I did wonder if any structures on the east side of 50th had to be demolished to make way for the widening project, though (first two photos).

The next set of pics made me smile - the circuitous detours devised by project engineers sometimes leave drivers feeling like lab rats in a maze! The resulting intersection - and improvement in traffic flow - appears to be worth the temporary inconvenience, though. And the Jan Haskins overpass and interchange is perfect as is the intersection with Los Endos.

Those were elements of special interest, in part because of the need for crossovers on avenues. My own first experience in that area was a disaster! And is one at-grade intersection enough or are there more to come?

Always looking forward to more construction
- especially when I don't have to drive through it!
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Haljackey on March 19, 2009, 10:38:54 AM
Nice map.
Nice buildings.
Nice construction.
Nice roads.
Nice highways.
Nice update.

As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this update.  Well done and I look forward to the next!

Best,
-Haljackey
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: EDGE4194 on March 20, 2009, 08:14:56 PM
alex- great update (of course!), nice terraces btw. now if you can just get those sanitation workers back on the job  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on March 21, 2009, 10:43:11 PM
Great update  :thumbsup:, except one thing what would happen if a car had bad brakes @ the Los Endos Boulevard/Jan Haskins Parkway intersection?  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: jgehrts on March 22, 2009, 08:31:22 AM
"Gehrts Way"...  Now there's a strange-sounding street name.  :)

By the way, who made the school and athletic field that you showed in that update?  They both look pretty slick.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: j-dub on March 22, 2009, 06:01:07 PM
Alex, why do you have trash all over the place!? Is it that McDonald's doing it?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: LE0 on March 22, 2009, 07:08:36 PM
In next update you should build a landfill :P


PS Where to download the trash piles?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 47--3/17/2009--Jan Haskins Pkwy and Other Projects)
Post by: nerdly_dood on March 22, 2009, 07:16:19 PM
There are ploppable trash piles available for download on the STEX i think, but those aren't what Tarkus has there - what he has is a shortage of garbage-processing facilities! Tsk tsk Alex I thought you could do better! ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Tarkus on March 24, 2009, 12:37:18 AM
Hi everyone-

Back with more Tarkusian Cities here.  We'll be looking at TDOT's plans to further upgrade Highway 94 to freeway status this update.

But first, replies:

Jan (Swamper77):  Thanks!  Hehe . . . fortunately, Los Endos has a fairly warm climate.  Very conducive to a long construction season. :D  As far as relocation goes, TDOT in most cases is able to offer displaced residents/businesses a fair market price in exchange for the right-of-way, with which the owners can easily buy into a new development somewhere.  The Tartan Corridor project only involved removing about 4 or 5 houses, so it was relatively easy to work out a deal. 

And yes, the trash does appear to be a bit of a problem up there at 57th and Los Endos . . . fortunately, the local public utility district is committed to building a new, sustainable Waste-to-Energy facility off NE Midland Road.

David (dedgren): Thanks for the kind words!  I can't get enough of SAM Set 7 myself, and hope to sneak some of those great new SAM curves you made in. ;)  Hope you enjoy this latest project here!

Arthur (art128): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the update and that intersection and stadium in particular.  It was a bit tricky to build that interchange into the side of that hill there, but I'm pleased with how it came out.

TmiguelT:  Thanks, and you're 100% correct, it's never too late. :)  I'm glad to hear it was inspiring!  Hopefully, more lurkers will come out of the shadows as well--I don't bite. :D

carkid1998:  Thanks--and yes, there are some TLA-5s in those pics.  However, it's still not ready for primetime.  I've actually been using my very rudimentary "not safe for public consumption" Alpha Build for a couple years now. ;)

Battlecat:  Yes, the city does have a bit of a garbage problem there.  Those Los Endites are quite the litterbugs. ::)  Thanks for the compliments on the school as well--I'm very pleased with how that came out!

Pat:  Thanks for the kind words on the projects--I'm happy to hear you're enjoying them!  If you are going to phone the EPA, the jurisdiction you'd want to complain about would be the City of Los Endos.  :D  TDOT has joint jurisdiction over Los Endos Blvd with Los Endos.  Though that particular lot will be getting something built on it soon.

Darragh (darraghf):  Thanks!

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks--glad you enjoyed it!

Joan (Jmouse):  Thank you very much for the compliments--and for the great questions as well!  I'm particularly glad to hear that I was able to present everything clearly, too.  As far as the 50th Avenue widening project, fortunately, when the city allowed residential development in the Tartan area, they required a fairly wide easement along that arterial, just in case.  I'll have to show a little more of 50th in one of the next few updates--I like how it turned out.

Those detours do indeed get interesting, and are usually the one thing that keep me from routinely driving through construction zones. :D  (Though I usually still take a peek or two . . .) 

As far as the intersections on the Jan Haskins Parkway, the Foothill Terrace intersection will probably be the only one in that section.  TDOT and the city want to keep traffic flow as unrestricted as possible, and if the topography didn't prohibit it, that would probably be an overpass or interchange itself.  Albeit the Parkway will get extended a good 4 miles to the north in a future update, and the extension will have some more intersections.

Haljackey:  Nice comment. :D  Thanks--I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it, and hope this one was worth the wait!

EDGE4194:  Thanks!  I'm particularly glad you noticed the terraces--that's probably my favorite feature of that intersection.  And the sanitation workers will be given a good "what for". :D

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks, and that's a good question.  Fortunately, there's a guardrail there at the intersection to prevent folks from plunging into Lake Hammerhead. ;)

jgehrts:  Hehe . . . I'm glad you caught that--consider it your reward for being the 20,000th viewer of Tarkusian Cities.  (n.b.: We're just about to hit 40,000 views right now, too. :)  Thanks to all the commenters and lurkers!)  I'm glad you liked the school and athletic field setup there--the school is one of SimGoober's, and the athletic fields are from Chrisadams3997 on the LEX (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1721).

j-dub:  Not sure who's causing the trash there--it could also be the Chick-Fil-A next door as well, or just Los Endites being careless.  We'll get down to the bottom of it. ;) 

LE0:  Well, you'll probably see the trash facilities in a future update--they're right in the vicinity of one road project that I'll be featuring soon.  And those are just Maxis trash piles there. 

nerdly_dood:  You're exactly right--Los Endos' population has quickly outgrown its waste processing facilities.  Don't worry, though, that will be rectified soon. ;) 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg232.imageshack.us%2Fimg232%2F1423%2Ftdothighway9450pxjr7.jpg&hash=049e047145498fa926c8eb0f2351454735e1db93)Ardent Road/31st Street Interchange

This project will replace the current at-grade intersection between Highway 94 (the Desert Lakes Highway) and NE 31st Street/NE Ardent Road in Los Endos, as part of the larger TDOT project to bring the highway up to Primary Route standards.  31st Street and Ardent Road are major arterials that lie about 2 miles east of Downtown Los Endos, and they provide access for much of the region to the Milvedo District, home to many Hi-Tech companies.  The current at-grade intersection is among the most dangerous in TDOT's jurisdiction, and the Level of Service is at Level F for 10 hours per day as a result. 

The first phase of the project will involve the construction of all but the eastbound entrance ramp, which will be built at a later date.  TDOT has preliminary plans to upgrade this interchange as needed during the Highway 94 projects.

In addition, Ardent Road will be re-aligned north of the freeway, and Ardent and 31st will be widened to 4 lanes between Richland Lane and Los Endos Boulevard.

Here is a look at the existing at-grade intersection. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F5525%2Fu481.jpg&hash=f01d7430f339288a2b9a5ead8b13c326e941e04b)

Work starting on the new Ardent alignment. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F6462%2Fu482.jpg&hash=3568c2e11290472e7cf2bd6012f67d22f2c02400)

The westbound ramps are being build. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F544%2Fu483.jpg&hash=7fb758479c7646f85103bebf14bb65db8aba625c)

The existing at-grade intersection has been demolished.  31st and Ardent will be closed until the overpass is built, with motorists using 18th Street (Highway 33) as a detour (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F143%2Fu484.jpg&hash=41622689b62347061518997b248975041ddd5555)

The new overpass being built over Highway 94 (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F4790%2Fu485.jpg&hash=feda539f78c1c7d1c8cc8ae7432ef8957e3b6ada)

The overpass has been connected into the new Ardent alignment (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg14.imageshack.us%2Fimg14%2F1989%2Fu486.jpg&hash=c2f792849179232c3cfa0e372e7fbd52c51af1d2)

The westbound ramps, which tunnel under Ardent, have been opened (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F456%2Fu487.jpg&hash=8b1fde106ea282758f1675b8324576eb26b92dfe)

The eastbound off-ramp from Highway 94 to 31st has been built. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F6376%2Fu488.jpg&hash=9c8b36960a5d1bd26fa04ca12c79d24fae33cff5)

Construction has begun on the eastbound on-ramp from 31st to Highway 94 (facing west)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F214%2Fu489.jpg&hash=17cd27319876333771b9367e4e078fa598c457ee)

A map showing the new interchange . . . the city's mapmakers have gotten ahead of themselves and shown the as-of-yet unconstructed eastbound on-ramp.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F8123%2Flosendos21map03232009.th.png&hash=91f3092b2d2c9e5139e5d886f943f4ccf9b02374) (http://img11.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos21map03232009.png)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  More construction ahead.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: mightygoose on March 24, 2009, 02:56:27 AM
fantastic update my friend, but pray tell me, that you demolished the motel and not the school for the road widening :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Ryan B. on March 24, 2009, 06:15:55 AM
A very creative interchagne - but I'd expect nothing less from one of the best!

So when are you gonna start using your spiffy new highway shields on your maps?  ;)  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: bat on March 24, 2009, 08:51:53 AM
Nice work on that intersection of that nice highway! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Battlecat on March 24, 2009, 10:29:42 AM
Nicely done!  I like how you fit the wide angle avenue curve in there, it really fits the area. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: rdrdrdrd on March 24, 2009, 11:59:28 AM
I love your style, any tips on making highways?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Ryan B. on March 24, 2009, 01:35:48 PM
Here's a tip:  Leave yourself as much space as you can, in case you mess up.

Another:  Find a good slope mod and don't try to stuff elevated items (like ramps) into unrealistic spaces & angles.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Pat on March 24, 2009, 02:01:48 PM
hehehe Alex well if City of Los Endos hasn't cleaned up that mess yet there will be a call but knowing you I hope you gotten it addressed so it should be no problem right? Anywho I really enjoyed the widening here in this update and I cant wait to see more construction!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: nerdly_dood on March 24, 2009, 02:13:59 PM
It occurs to me that with your MD concentrating on highway construction, rather than a profusion of the completed product, it takes a lot more time and effort to put in the various things to simulate a road construction zone and I commend you for the the extra effort. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: io_bg on March 24, 2009, 02:41:36 PM
Nice work! Very creative! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Jmouse on March 24, 2009, 06:27:29 PM
This is one of TDOT's more brilliantly-planned and executed  projects – the perfect solution to what seems a perplexing problem at first glance.

The proximity of Hammerhead Lake limits the extension of Ardent, but what a nightmare it would have been were it not for the tunnel. I've never seen that done before – very clever!

Has the entire Ardent/31st St. widening project been completed? I noticed a lot of traffic on the new overpass, so clearly the change was needed.

There doesn't appear to be any access to Ardent/31st from 94, though, and I was wondering where access is available. Possibly around 18th? Once again, I'm thinking of our Highway 63 which has very few Jonesboro exits. The one I'm familiar with leads straight to "motel row" and a variety of restaurants, which is as it should be.

I find the whole transport-planning process to be more and more interesting, and the way you do things here makes perfect sense. I can think of several cities in dire need of skills like yours! :)

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: bakerton on March 25, 2009, 03:15:57 PM
Alex, you amaze us with your and TDOT's work. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: TmiguelT on March 26, 2009, 07:46:56 AM
yeah this CJ inspired me a lot  &apls. Also the tunnel on that interchange looks unique. This would be the first Interchange with a tunnel  :thumbsup: (i think so). Now if we talk about the TDOT Budget, this would be the numbers with the tunnel 25,000 Sim Money and without would be 14,000 Sim Money  "$Deal"$ Unless you don't have trouble with your budget it would be ok  ;). Overall this CJ rocks  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on March 26, 2009, 12:15:11 PM
This Update , shows the Hustle & bustle of your City  $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Simpson on March 27, 2009, 11:44:27 AM
Hi Alex !
I'm so sorry that I missed all these updates. Your transit network is incredible, as well, it's a real inspiration for me  :thumbsup:.
I'm looking forward to the update 49.

Take care,

David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: BigSlark on March 27, 2009, 02:07:18 PM
Great update, Alex. You continue to inspire my transit networks.

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: EDGE4194 on March 29, 2009, 11:49:39 AM
alex- great update. you have created a very unique interchange. i bet the eastbound 94 commuters aren't very pleased now that their access has been terminated!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: calibanX on April 13, 2009, 11:23:01 AM
I love the construction project. Your transportation network is inspiring to say the least. Watch out for road rage there!

Geoff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: just_a_guy on April 14, 2009, 09:10:37 PM
I love how you focus on the construction process of your whole transport network. It's very realistic and over all very well planned interchanges!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Sciurus on April 15, 2009, 01:37:30 AM
Ah, still in construction, but you'll never finish your city $%Grinno$%
No, the construction, it's a thing I love to see, I prefer when it's under construction, than it's all finished, because when it's all finished, you bore.... ::)
So, good luck for the follow ;)

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: Tarkus on April 30, 2009, 04:58:32 PM
Well, I'm finally back with a new update.  And here's a shocker . . . there's no construction this time. ;)

First, replies:

mightygoose:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and I think you'll be quite relieved once you see the 31st Street widening. :D

Ryan (burgsabre87):  Thanks for the compliments on the interchange!  It means a lot coming from a fellow roadgeek. :)  As far as the shields go, I'm not sure if they will end up on the maps or not . . . I've been kind of trying to emulate the old Thomas Guide maps (before Rand McNally bought them out and completely ruined them), and they usually just use the green circles for state routes.  Though I'm thinking I might transition to a new design at some point . . .

(And thanks for helping rdrdrdrd out, too. ;))

bat:  Thank you for the kind words, my friend.  Glad you liked the highway there!

battlecat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the project, and the Avenue curve usage--those pieces have come in handy for me so many times. :)

rdrdrdrd:  Thanks for the compliments, and I'll second burgsabre87's suggestions.  I always tend to leave a little bit of extra "right-of-way" easement whenever I'm building any sort of highway or surface arterial, just in case.  I'd also recommend picking up Ennedi's Slope Mods and Shadow Assassin's Hole Digger/Raiser Lots, which are on the LEX.  They've been a standby for me for the past year or so now, and were used for this most recent interchange project. 

I used the 15m Raiser coupled with the NAM Avenue Onslope pieces to build the overpass.  Hope that helps!  Perhaps I'll have to do a "making of" update one of these days.

Pat:  Sounds like a plan.  :D  The city will be cleaning up its act.  And thanks for the kind words on the interchange--I'm glad you enjoyed this latest project!

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the all-too-kind words, my friend.  I've kind of just gotten so used to making the "in construction" shots that it seems like an ordinary part of the game.  One of these days, I do need to make some more construction stuff to spruce the projects up even further.

io_bg:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks for the kind words and the great analysis as well!  That tunnel was kind of an "aha" moment when I came across that solution, though it kind of makes the Ardent-to-Westbound 94 connection awkward.  31st has been widened now all the way down to the south end of the golf course, though the 31st/Milvedo intersection is still a mess.  There is a 31st/Ardent-to-Eastbound 94 ramp now, which gets pretty heavy use, too.  I'll likely show both in a (near) future update.

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks for the kind words!  TDOT appreciates it, too. :)

TmiguelT:  Thanks, I'm always quite stoked when I hear I've inspired someone here. :)  I'm glad you liked the tunnel solution there . . . it was an interesting interchange to build, and I'm mostly happy with how it came out, though I guarantee it will get torn up and rebuilt again. :D  As far as TDOT goes, they're extraordinarily well-funded, though some of the stuff in Argentum has proven a bit costly.  And the City of Los Endos isn't doing too shabby, so they can afford to help foot TDOT's costs if needed.

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the hustle and bustle here!  That interchange certainly has a lot of it. ;)

David (Simpson):  Thanks for the kind words, and no need to apologize. :)  I'm glad you're enjoying the transit network aspect of things, and I hope you enjoy Update 49 now that it's (finally) here.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm just thrilled to know I'm inspiring other roadgeeks! :)

Eric (EDGE4194):  Glad you enjoyed this latest installment--thanks!  And the eastbound 94 commuters will be placated here soon, fortunately.  I think Los Endos Blvd will be breathing a sigh of relief to be rid of some of the excess traffic.

Geoff (calibanX):  Thanks for the compliments on the construction and the network focus!  I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I'll be sure to watch out for road rage.  Just have to make sure things don't get congested (which, as you'll see, they do get quite congested in Los Endos). ;)

just_a_guy:  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the whole construction end of things and the interchange!

Guillaume (Sciurus):  Hehe . . . I'm never fully satisfied with my transit networks and I can't help but to tear things up and rebuild them.  That's where I get most of my enjoyment in SC4!  Thanks for the kind words!

_________________________________________________________________________
This update we'll be looking at the small town of Squire, which sits on the west side of the Bruford River Gorge, about 12 miles south of Wakeman.

First of all, here's a map of the general vicinity. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg259.imageshack.us%2Fimg259%2F618%2Fag70map.th.png&hash=93d204163561fda9a5fc7fedf99a7a4bac20d18c) (http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/618/ag70map.png)

You'll notice 3 different highways run through the vicinity: Highway 283, which runs through downtown, Highway 89, which runs on the east side of the river, having crossed it just south of Wakeman, and Highway 32, a major east-west route that skirts the south side of Squire.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg140.imageshack.us%2Fimg140%2F77%2F80pxhighway32.jpg&hash=9b116d3ecae00661dbf2effd4e8a40c0587ff899) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F459%2F80pxhighway89.jpg&hash=af9354589529cf86deab395613e6d06d3e09467d) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F4011%2F80pxhighway283.jpg&hash=5dc229b863a12f4afa48aa9ac2b512f927fe82ad)

Overview of town (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg520.imageshack.us%2Fimg520%2F1230%2Fu492.jpg&hash=a9ba5606b7f70bb16b5004729880658cf20bfbea)

Here's a pic from downtown (facing north) at the intersection of C Street ("the main drag") and 3rd Street.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg511.imageshack.us%2Fimg511%2F2056%2Fu491.jpg&hash=539ddfa6272e0cfed79d26fffb1b89ced07541fa)

A couple of pics from the residential areas on the south end of town (facing north).

This is where C Way curves and becomes 7th Street.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg528.imageshack.us%2Fimg528%2F7193%2Fu493.jpg&hash=deb4ce24b05eb18eae88f14fe751c206e23d8933)

And where 7th Street curves on the way out of town.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg394.imageshack.us%2Fimg394%2F3791%2Fu494.jpg&hash=66a929c1c4b2216ae4a049ea90512bdd7e77578a)

This image here is at Schindleria Junction, where Highway 283 has its southern terminus with Highway 32.  There is a little bit of industrial development here, as well as some agricultural land that is watered by the Bruford River.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg134.imageshack.us%2Fimg134%2F5171%2Fu495.jpg&hash=3d97269c18cca89ae56c2977c05bcd03034a6e32)

On the opposite end of town, here is where Highway 283 curves out of downtown and crosses a small creek. (facing north)  As you can see, the speed limit is 30mph over the bridge.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg144.imageshack.us%2Fimg144%2F6904%2Fu496.jpg&hash=34af782840e6e057784d64738041310c97c5b8ab)

This is the far northern end of town, at the Highway 283/Squire Ridge Road intersection.  What you'd typically expect to see on the outskirts of a mid-sized desert town.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg139.imageshack.us%2Fimg139%2F3601%2Fu497.jpg&hash=62c9f44729caa49a06cb7bb72738196bc57a55c1)

And finally, a mosaic of downtown Squire.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg514.imageshack.us%2Fimg514%2F6537%2Fu49mosaic1.jpg&hash=26349b58cb0327afd38d4f75c62fbf2f9799dcd3)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg257.imageshack.us%2Fimg257%2F9405%2Fu49mosaic2.jpg&hash=3599ffe7e5b6821cba52172767acedd9de6b15ff)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg258.imageshack.us%2Fimg258%2F3699%2Fu49mosaic3.jpg&hash=8ffc3d08964e33de8ec93a1770e55462b8cfe0f7)

And that does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . the next update will be the 50th update (not including teasers).  Hopefully, it won't be too long a wait until then. :)

Also . . . you may notice the desert terrain I'm using looks slightly different.  I've been experimenting with improving my custom Wasco Terrain Mod, particularly on the low end.  I'm quite happy with how it's turned out thus far.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Ryan B. on April 30, 2009, 05:03:10 PM
What?  An update with no orange barrels anywhere to be seen?  I'm surprised.   :P

That looks just like a rural downtown should.  Nice work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 48--3/24/2009--Highway 94-Ardent Road Interchange)
Post by: Pat on April 30, 2009, 05:04:11 PM
Alex sinmply wonderful!!!! this is a real great update here and I can't wait till the next and the 50th update!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: superhands on April 30, 2009, 05:31:30 PM
great update Alex. i especially like the way 7th Street/the main road, curves through the town up to the bridge :thumbsup:
looking forward to update 50 $%Grinno$%

Dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: metarvo on April 30, 2009, 08:07:31 PM
Alex, are you teasing us with the SPM in the 6th pic?  Anyway, this is a very nice town.  The heavy use of SAM-7 asphalt streets adds a unique feel to this update.  I also notice the relative lack of traffic lights, which is somewhat representative of many small towns. 

On a side note, I see yet another Burger King with no McDonald's, so it seems like the old monopoly is still going strong in TC, this time with no other fast food restaurants visible.  ::)  Then again, I guess one burger place is enough in the typical small town.  :)

Keep up the good work, Alex!

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: bakerton on April 30, 2009, 08:39:12 PM
Well Alex, I just love that small little town as I love building them, but with tons of farmland around. Do you mind if I can move there Alex? Anyway, what an awesome update that features no construction for now. Keep it coming Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: Simpson on May 01, 2009, 12:08:42 AM
Wow, Alex !!  :) The first picture is really incredible  &apls also the city is superb, your terrain mod is looking nice  :thumbsup:
I'm looking forward to the update 50 !!

Take care my friend,

David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: art128 on May 01, 2009, 01:37:40 AM
Alex, first of all, I'm very sorry that I've forgot to replies here my friend.

I want to let you know that this area looks excellent, and is very realistic with these row home. The general shot make that city looking a pleasant place to be.

Looking forward to more.

Take Care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 49--4/30/2009--Squire)
Post by: Sciurus on May 01, 2009, 04:59:09 AM
Oh, THAT IS an amercian city! $%Grinno$% Why I say that? Because all houses (or nearly) are the sames :D. But it's beauitful regardless :thumbsup:

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009-Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: Tarkus on May 03, 2009, 05:31:33 PM
Well, I'm back with the 50th "official" update . . . and I have a special treat for you all this time . . .

But first, replies:

Ryan B.:  Yes, it is a little surprise to not see the construction.  Felt like it might be kind of nice to take a little diversion for once.  And thanks for the compliments on the downtown!  That was exactly what I was shooting for.

Pat:  Thanks for the kind words--hope you enjoy this new update as well!

Dave (bighead99):  Thanks!  I'm glad you liked the curvature of the main road through town there as well--I was aiming to emulate a few RL small towns in Central/Eastern Oregon that are a lot like that.  Hope you enjoy update 50!

metarvo:  Thanks, and yes, indeed, I am teasing with the SPM a bit.  You'll notice quite a bit of it in this update as well.  I'm a big fan of the SAM Asphalt Streets, too.  Good point on the Burger King thing, too.  I was wondering if anyone would pick up on that.  :D  Wakeman to the north, if I recall correctly, has no Burger Kings, but one McDonald's and one Wendy's, so it balances out.

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks for the compliments on the town--I enjoy building them as well, and I've actually got a few other smaller towns that I haven't shown yet that I probably should.  And by all means, you are more than welcome to move to Squire.  I wouldn't mind living there myself either--I think it'd be a fun commute between Squire and Wakeman through the gorge there.

David (Simpson):  Thank you so much for the kind words, and for the positive feedback on the terrain mod, especially. :)  I'm hoping to get an "official" version compiled here at some point.

Arthur (art128):  Hey, no need to apologize. ;)  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed the town, and hope you enjoy this latest installment!

Guillaume (Sciurus):  LOL, what can I say--we're minimalists. :D  Thanks for the kind words!
_________________________________________________________

And now for the aforementioned treat . . . the first-ever Tarkusian Video.  It's kind of a semi-aerial flyover of some of the roads in eastern Los Endos around the Tartan and Foothill areas.

http://www.youtube.com/v/sFwtaMHTPAo

The map again, for convenience--see if you can figure out the route.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F5408%2Flosendos22mapu46.th.png&hash=adc67cc8e89d1fd933864928b7aaf6fae35e3bf4) (http://img10.imageshack.us/my.php?image=losendos22mapu46.png)

And our next commenter here will hit the magic #800 . . . and will get "on the map".  Thank you all for your continued support . . . we're fast approaching two years of Tarkusian Cities, amazingly.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: nerdly_dood on May 03, 2009, 05:41:23 PM
I must say your video shows your cities much better than a series of images, taking up less space than a mosaic. Not bad at all!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on May 03, 2009, 06:16:22 PM
Very nice video Alex, it helps immensely in placing where everything is in Los Endos.

I do hope to see some more of these from other cities in the future.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: mightygoose on May 03, 2009, 07:31:16 PM
superb video alex, great work.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: EDGE4194 on May 04, 2009, 05:11:48 AM
awesome video  :thumbsup: it's so nice to actually see it come "alive".
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: MandelSoft on May 04, 2009, 06:57:27 AM
Oh, I know the exact path:
First, you go all the way down on the Midland Road to the 50th Street and to Gerth's Way before turning left to the SE 57th Street. Then go all the way north to the Los Endos Boulevard, where you turn right. Then it's a long way down to the Jan Haskins Parkway, where you turn left. Then it's straight up and after the interchange with Highway 93, the movie ends.

Well, you could say I'm a good navigator, right? ;)

Nice video, Alex :thumbsup: I enjoyed it.

Best,
Maarten
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: JBSimio on May 04, 2009, 08:08:52 AM
Hi Alex,

I always enjoy your construction updates (although I tend to enjoy them quietly  ::) ), but these last two updates have been a very nice change of pace.  Both the video and the update before it did a great job of showing off your building style.  I like the way much of your developments seems to be in scattered clusters... it's quite different from the way I build and I often find myself studying your pictures for ideas.  I'm always peeking in here and I'll try and remember to say something a little more often!  :thumbsup:

JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: bat on May 04, 2009, 10:23:44 AM
Nice video there! And also wonderful update! Your city looks really good! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: sebes on May 05, 2009, 10:07:09 AM
Do you have a no lurking day too? If not - this serves just to let you know that I drop by on a daily basis, and enjoy every bit you did in will do. For me you'll remain NR1 in mapmaking and road-restructuring!   :satisfied:

Oh and what I completely forgot to add in this post: you made an excellent video and I just love the music theme you found with it. And to proove that the map is great: I could even follow the routing of the tour on the thumbnail picture, did not even had to open the map (but of course did it to get a real thrill again of looking at that beauty in detail!)  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: art128 on May 06, 2009, 09:49:42 AM
Alex,
Great video there my friend, it show your excellent network system and that wonderful city of Los Endos.
Also, the map is great too, good work on it.
Looking forward to more.

Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: Jmouse on May 06, 2009, 05:19:17 PM
Great video, Alex! You have some crazy drivers in there, though! :o It's entertaining and enlightening to see how the network actually functions. As for the route, I recognized some landmarks, but there's no way I could put it all together.

Looking forward to update #50 - give it few weeks and Tarkusian Cities will pass the two-year milestone, too.

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: j-dub on May 06, 2009, 07:33:58 PM
Episodic video Alex! We don't know where exactly you were headed when you ended at that rural highway, but this was a long fly around. I can't imagine how many gigs of space thats taking you. Although, I bet you couldn't do it by driving a car through those roads without getting hit, like other people have in their MD's, except you have alot of exclusive developer prototype network designs here. Now did you use your own music, or the free soundtrack that YouTube provides?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on May 06, 2009, 07:53:36 PM
Great First video and Update Alex! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: dedgren on May 06, 2009, 09:17:20 PM
Tarkusian video rocks!  I see heavy rotation for future releases.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: metarvo on May 07, 2009, 06:57:22 AM
Wow, this is great.  Sometimes, a video brings a certain dimension that pictures alone can't.  In addition, I think I have discovered which route you took, Alex.

You started out going south on NE 50th St.  After crossing the Desert Lakes Hwy, you then cross E Los Endos Blvd, SE Ilmore St, SE Telner Dr, and SE Eugene St.

Near Tartan High School, you leave the road, entering a minor road near the school that is not labeled on the map.  You take a left turn and come to an intersection with SE Gehrts Way.  The road curves to the left and you cross SE 50th St, then you turn left onto SE 57th St.  Now going north, you cross SE Hardy St, SE Ivy St, SE Argentum Dr, SE Eugene St, and SE Ilmore St.

When you reach the intersection of E Los Endos Blvd, you turn right.  Now going east, E Los Endos Blvd crosses NE 65th st, curves right, and becomes SE Los Endos Blvd.  The road curves left and SE 71st Ct branches off to the south, and then the road curves right again.

Finally, you reach SE Jan Haskins Pkwy and turn left.  The northbound trip down this road crosses several minor roads as well as the Desert Lakes Hwy.

I may be wrong, but that's my guess.  In any case, this is a great update!

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: Sciurus on May 07, 2009, 09:41:13 AM
Excellent video, it represents very good an american city, we can see in films, there, in France &apls I hope you understood I loved it ::)

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: Pat on May 12, 2009, 05:11:38 PM
 &apls Alex fantastic Video update here wow!!! Its great to see your city come to life for sure!!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 50--5/3/2009--Tarkusian Videos?!)
Post by: just_a_guy on May 13, 2009, 01:03:09 PM
Great trip. The area somewhat reminds me of the outer suburbs of Las Vegas in a way. The populated areas are scattered all around the area with a lot of avenues that seem to be in the middle of nowhere. That's just how well your city resembles the "average" american city.

Awsome video. Hopefully it won't be the last!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: Tarkus on May 15, 2009, 07:04:34 PM
Hi everyone-

It's time for another installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . this time, we'll be looking at widening more of Los Endos Blvd in East Los Endos, as well as some of the development that's gone on out there.

But first, replies:

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the kind words--I'm happy to hear you liked the video, and I think there will be more to come.  Also, thanks for hitting the big #800--you'll be getting "on the map" here soon . . . I still owe Dustin one for #700, too.

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it, and that it helped in placing things.  I'll definitely be doing more of these here soon . . . if anyone has any requests for which city they'd like to see next, I can fast track it. :)

mightygoose:  Thanks, I'm flattered to hear you liked it!

EDGE4194:  I'm very happy to hear that you enjoyed the video--thanks for the kind words!  It really does give a different impression of things.

Maarten (mrtnrln):  Thanks for the compliments, and you've got the route exactly!  You are indeed a very good navigator! :thumbsup:

Jon (JBSimio):  Thanks  No worries about being quiet--I'm really quite flattered to hear you've been enjoying things here, and I particularly appreciate the feedback on the "change of pace"--I think I may have to do that a little more often. 

I think you also brought up a very interesting observation on the development patterns, too.  I do find myself putting "buffer zones" of sorts in a lot of my cities--I think it's partly a product of my surroundings growing up, in an area where, at least for a time in the late-1980s/early-1990s, suburban development was co-existing relatively peacefully with agricultural uses and open space/nature.  I've always been keen on trying to strike that sort of balance, and it's been one of my primary motivations in playing SC4, perhaps coupled with my interest in roads and highways.

bat: Thanks for the kind words as always, my friend!  Hope you enjoy this latest installment!

sebes: Hehe . . . I've thought about that possibility--there are an awful lot of lurkers on this MD, and it would be kind of nice to hear from them.  (Note to lurkers: I don't bite. :D) 

Thank you for the all-too-kind words--I'm absolutely flattered to hear that you've been enjoying what's been going on here, and I'm glad to hear the video was easy to follow along with.  Hope you enjoy this latest update!

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed everything!

Joan (Jmouse):  Thanks!  I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the video and seeing the networks in action.  And yes, some of those drivers can be a bit crazy.  Perhaps the Los Endos DMV needs to become a bit stricter. :D

j-dub:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and for reference, the clips are currently taking up about 5.1GB of space.  The actual finished video is only about 33.1MB, though.  Good catch on the ending there, too--as you'll soon see, Jan Haskins Parkway gets extended quite a bit to the north.  I did actually try doing a UDI setup originally, but I managed to completely total the car before completing the route, so I thought I'd be able to control things a little better by just doing a close in flyover.  And the soundtrack I used is part of a song called "Hallogallo" by the 1970s German experimental rock band Neu! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neu!), who I've been listening to quite a lot as of late.

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks for the kind words--I'm happy to hear you liked it!

David (dedgren):  Thanks for the compliment on the Tarkusian Video--now if only MTV actually showed music videos again.  :D 

metarvo:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it--and you're spot on with regards to the route, too! 

Guillaume (Sciurus):  Yes, I did understand, and merci beaucoup for the kind words! :)  I'm very pleased to hear I've captured the American city well!

Pat: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed seeing Los Endos come to life!

just_a_guy:  Thanks!  I'm quite happy to hear that you think I've gotten the whole "desert suburbia" thing down--that's exactly what I was shooting for.  Places like Reno, NV have been a pretty big influence on my building style.  And I don't think you've seen the last of Tarkusian Videos. ;)

____________________________________________

This update will examine the City of Los Endos' project to widen SE Los Endos Blvd between SE 71st Court in the Foothill area, up to the Broadvine area (which you'll see in a future update).  This project will widen this entire section of Los Endos Blvd to 4 lanes in order to accommodate an anticipated significant increase in traffic volume resulting from new residential development in East Los Endos.

This first image is of Los Endos Blvd just east of 71st, at the point at which the widening will begin (facing east).  You'll also notice a new street being built as well--that's SE 75th Street, which will be extended as part of a new residential development.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F5928%2Fu511.jpg&hash=1c9878ce22a36251ad42fef92e3d9bbe1f1a2f8e)

Another look farther out (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F1901%2Fu512.jpg&hash=b3c622af96332b6b99ba2b61965ff92c34dd4a0c)

The roads in the development have now been paved, and a few houses have been built (facing north).  The neighborhood has two points of access to Los Endos Blvd, the 75th Street extension, as well as one at the Peterson Road extension.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F3442%2Fu513.jpg&hash=f94385e2ba4f3cd1cb1d3e6ebaca74997d0a59eb)

Another look at the completed 75th Street extension, and more work being done on Los Endos Blvd. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg32.imageshack.us%2Fimg32%2F2945%2Fu514.jpg&hash=b4ef5d2a3141f4fa5f5aa6ac9ca5d9f59f717594)

A temporary re-alignment of Los Endos Blvd has been built while the curve is reconstructed. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F5089%2Fu515.jpg&hash=534cb740463d729d158b6a419e0d8abdc7d9b63c)

A look at some of the work south of the Jan Haskins Parkway intersection. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F4033%2Fu519.jpg&hash=7db73d69851c8adaa7d6cfd231b63e4040eace28)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F1285%2Fu518.jpg&hash=0cb1f85dc46d98ccb7cdb963b6f3a1c77cd6b748)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F8648%2Fu517.jpg&hash=fdf68e7dc3087e0121aa809be11577d1c9848151)

In order to minimize disruption, crews worked on some parts of the project at night.  Here, some crews are hard at work along the section heading toward Broadvine (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg198.imageshack.us%2Fimg198%2F7290%2Fu5115.jpg&hash=b37d2bbc4a78349b2b44f510f1761122e73f797b)

More work on the new wider curve being built south of Jan Haskins Pkwy (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F921%2Fu5110.jpg&hash=c70f35127871fc741a8665044661a834ec6c4ed9)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg32.imageshack.us%2Fimg32%2F8282%2Fu5111.jpg&hash=2a32570f18f4aa9ca70f386cca98f681a18be4dd)

The finished product at 75th (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg191.imageshack.us%2Fimg191%2F117%2Fu5114.jpg&hash=eddec5b9d6bfa672fabb3fac1d8aa87b4157ca10)

And the final stages of work going toward Broadvine (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F4475%2Fu5112.jpg&hash=8f2f13edc3ada13871cecd273d926b606165c035)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg191.imageshack.us%2Fimg191%2F117%2Fu5114.jpg&hash=eddec5b9d6bfa672fabb3fac1d8aa87b4157ca10)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg195.imageshack.us%2Fimg195%2F5412%2Fu5116.jpg&hash=c787e9d301d2599772a1dc61065488074c1e5665)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F6916%2Fu5117.jpg&hash=0ec78aac60e4884a1443bbaa150b2242d87cb409)

And that does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities!  Another update is imminent . . .

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: Pat on May 15, 2009, 07:12:09 PM
LoL you love that word dont you Alex imminent hehehee.... Another darn great update here and BTW are we going to see another Video or do we have to wait to 100?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: TmiguelT on May 15, 2009, 07:16:17 PM
Another Awesome Update  &apls
"Another update is imminent" that sounds like a Sci-fi movie line  :D
Sorry for looking on your last 2 Updates. i was kinda tired to post at really night times  %confuso
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on May 15, 2009, 07:53:13 PM
Really nice construction Alex, it looks like plenty of traffic is using the newly widened road.
And do show us that residential development when it's completed.  ;)

Oh, and there's that word "imminent" again :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: metarvo on May 16, 2009, 05:24:09 AM
It looks like some of the widening is taking place in the areas that I remember from the video, in particular the stretch of Los Endos Blvd. just east of 71st. Ct.  It looks more residential development might be imminent, since more blocks have been built in the neighborhood.  Actually, I have seen road construction at night before IRL, mainly in big cities or other areas that have high traffic in the daytime, so it is quite realistic.  Nice update, Alex!

&apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: sebes on May 16, 2009, 05:58:08 AM
Quote from: Tarkus on May 15, 2009, 07:04:34 PM
--there are an awful lot of lurkers on this MD, and it would be kind of nice to hear from them.  (Note to lurkers: I don't bite. :D) 

True! I can confirm he does not bite. (just stay away when he is shuffling arround piles of sand again...)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.simssupport.uwa.edu.au%2F%3Ff%3D78942&hash=deabd10e7e2fdfb16a8621f783d45999b36d1eea)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on May 16, 2009, 11:31:37 AM
what another Wonderful , update from Tarkus , you always seem to be constructing something!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: bakerton on May 16, 2009, 03:57:32 PM
Alex, I do like on how you "constructed" this update. Looking forward to the next update which as you put it, 'imment'. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: Jmouse on May 16, 2009, 05:38:31 PM
Alex, I've seen plenty of bottlenecks like the one you started out with on SE Los Endos. Sometimes they're not bothersome at all, but if traffic starts getting a little heavier, they're a nightmare to navigate. At least you stay ahead of the game, unlike some DOTs which wait until they're forced to take action of some kind! :)

The 75th St. extension was certainly needed and will provide access to residents of the new neighborhood. The wider curve South of Jan Haskins Pkwy. looks great, but I'm curious about the utility towers on stilts. Don't recall seeing anything like that before, but wondering where you found them.

Always looking forward to another update...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: superhands on May 16, 2009, 06:11:14 PM
great update alex.
like that SE 75th Street junction the most :)

dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: art128 on May 17, 2009, 01:48:52 AM
Great developments there Alex, It's always wonderful to see the city step by step..
Looking forward to more.

Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 24, 2009, 06:02:06 AM
Hey Tarkus,
   I am new here but I really like this CJ! Also that Avenue-Road transition... Will that be part of the NWM?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: Battlecat on May 25, 2009, 11:05:35 AM
I've missed a couple good updates!  Congratulations on 50 updates, that's quite the accomplishment!  The video you posted is really cool!  The latest update looks great, I really do just love how much though you give to how the construction projects would have to be accomplished in real life, particularly giving though to how to keep the existing traffic moving. 

Looking forward to seeing what's coming next!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: j-dub on June 15, 2009, 10:05:10 PM
What the?! Oh no, not the 75th Street junction, I can't drive down there anymore, as they made the speed limit at that intersection 35 mph during construction, causing major bottlenecks as it has to be narrowed down for construction and the bridge is really not stable in my opinion, its all rusted and old. I also can't cross my bike there anymore either, as there is dirt everywhere, and I noticed wildlife running into neighborhoods to get far away from the giant dirt mess as possible. Oh, I'm sorry, am I getting too carried away. No, the truth is I am talking about how finally this has reached my reality. 75th Street in my RL is being widened from 5 lanes to 9 lanes. Now that is nothing compared to this, 30 years ago, this was the case. This is torture knowing the fact in SC4, all it takes is a simple click, versus the years I have to wait for it to be completed in real life.

Now speaking of wait, and sci-fi lines, I know that feeling of torture of having no idea, no video or news of when the next "Episode" is going to be finished, but at least here, we don't have to wait real years for construction to complete in SC4. However, I bet it will take years for all of those crossroad buildings to grow, before covering this area all finished is possible.

And  Jmouse, so Tarkus doesn't have to answer, those are utility poles Fukuda did to replace the red and white colors. So the very least, look up that name on the exchange site(s).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: allan_kuan1992 on June 21, 2009, 02:01:44 AM
I hate to point out that this hasn't been updated in over a month contrary to MD rules... :-[

- Allan Kuan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: TmiguelT on June 21, 2009, 08:02:08 PM
Quote from: allan_kuan1992 on June 21, 2009, 02:01:44 AM
I hate to point out that this hasn't been updated in over a month contrary to MD rules... :-[

- Allan Kuan

Don't worry maybe he has been working hard on the next update. construction sites usually take over a year to be finish  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: thundercrack83 on June 21, 2009, 10:09:48 PM
Quote from: allan_kuan1992 on June 21, 2009, 02:01:44 AM
I hate to point out that this hasn't been updated in over a month contrary to MD rules... :-[

- Allan Kuan

The rule is actually 45 days, not a month. Don't worry, Alex--you've got a few more days, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: Tarkus on June 23, 2009, 01:25:25 AM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities still lives, and I'm finally back with a new update.  This time, we'll be looking at a somewhat innovative TDOT/City of Los Endos project to aid traffic movement in Los Endos' rapidly growing downtown.

First, I'll begin with a map--this is the area before construction and much of the development downtown.  The main area that will get developed is shown in the clearly marked gray box.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg26.imageshack.us%2Fimg26%2F203%2Flosendosdowntownarea032.png&hash=35729026e5488892ef9f1e1cc97d8d8372602d04)

Here's an overview of downtown and vicinity before construction really gets going (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F5327%2Fu521.jpg&hash=95551455487420ead4205786d3e872b403ba4b1f)

Here's a closer-in pic showing some of the new structures that have been built in the downtown area.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F7043%2Fu522.jpg&hash=ba0f0041fa7abbbcb9e94cb70e3fc16fa750c170)

There's two things worth noting in those pics:
1) D Street and 0th Street still have at-grade intersections with Highway 94.
2) There's no real heavy-duty north-south arterial connecting Highway 94 to downtown.

The Los Endos Central Corridor project, which, as mentioned earlier, is a joint TDOT/Los Endos project, will fix both of these problems.  Here is what the project will accomplish:

1) The existing Highway 94/D Street at-grade crossing will be upgraded to a Diamond Interchange.
2) D Street will be re-aligned and re-named C Street.
3) The new, realigned C Street will be widened from 2 travel lanes to a Multi-Way Boulevard.

You may be wondering--what is a Multi-Way Boulevard?  Well, it's TDOT brochure time.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F3136%2Ftdotmultiwaybrochuretop.jpg&hash=5e35caf37cc67e1d99bdf1e0dc8ed894417eacb0)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F4569%2Ftdotmultiwaybrochurebot.jpg&hash=09f5e83c31d390cecc3b8d94f4a46de4126f4a3d)

So, that's that.  Now back to construction:

Work on the Multi-Way Boulevard near NW Waverly and NW Tipton Streets, facing south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F118%2Fu524.jpg&hash=19bfc35a2bde8b9aeb95844b86b6782899b26b52)

And at the Los Endos Blvd/Paramount Street One-Way Couplet, facing south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F5489%2Fu523.jpg&hash=f9ca4d9e83be159cd1441d0b4821978e3883a0bd)

And some work on the new interchange.  Here, you can see the old D Street at-grade intersection next to the new 4-lane overpass that will carry C Street across Highway 94. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F9338%2Fu526.jpg&hash=eba228d2b90a0cfc2aeb5605e703af4d91a54ca5)

The ramps to Highway 94 Eastbound, and from Highway 94 Westbound have been constructed.  The curve connecting the new C Street alignment to NW Hammerhead Lake Road has not yet been built.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F3676%2Fu527.jpg&hash=ef3ee82aae9272568c3a2b6ed1123f8d2cf2c1c3)


And a couple of pics of the newly-completed Multi-Way Boulevard.

This is facing north at the Los Endos/Paramount couplet.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg188.imageshack.us%2Fimg188%2F9124%2Fu528.jpg&hash=a9629c8e51def748e7ddbfeeff885badc5a5ca58)


This is facing west near the intersection with SW Mill Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F5402%2Fu529.jpg&hash=c42bf51194f8c9ec60ada9a27a6b14fdeabe1577)


And, as an added bonus, here's that missing EB Entrance ramp from the Ardent Road/31st Street interchange (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg401.imageshack.us%2Fimg401%2F3189%2Fu5210.jpg&hash=ca67d7923b4781c6f0c82fff0f69231592188ff8)


And finally, a map of the current state of Downtown Los Endos.  You may notice that Highway 94 is shown as Highway 60 on this map . . . more on that later.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F5715%2Flosendosdowntown0622200.png&hash=9c52193af109b4d6f9bfe3d207d99f3bb27f43c9)

And that does it for this update of Tarkusian Cities.  It's good to be back! :)  Thanks for all the great comments as well--I'll have replies in the next 24 hours or so.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 51--5/15/2009--More E. Los Endos Construction)
Post by: thundercrack83 on June 23, 2009, 01:30:33 AM
It's great to see things up and running here again, Alex! Wonderful stuff! I love the multi-way boulevard explanation and application, especially--I'm going to be playing around with things like this for sure! And of course, your maps are always outstanding, as well!

Can't wait to see what's next, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: art128 on June 23, 2009, 01:48:19 AM
Hey Alex, great to see a new update my friend ! The general shot of Los Endos is very realistic looking and all these suburbs are looking good my friend. Also, the newest development with the 4 way avenue is great too ! I really move the picture "This is facing west near the intersection with SW Mill Street." It looks sooo realistic !
Take care,
-Arthur. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: metarvo on June 23, 2009, 05:31:23 AM
When I saw the plans for the renamed C. St. and Hwy. 60, it made me curious as to why this would be done.  I've never seen TDot do anything without a reason, though.  Perhaps the "0" ending indicates that Hwy. 94/Hwy. 60 has become a more important east-west route.  That would be my guess.;)

Nice update, Alex!  :thumbsup:  I really like the multi-way boulevard.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: bakerton on June 23, 2009, 06:55:01 AM
Woderful update Alex. I do like the Multi lane Blvd. as we here in Wisconsin has something simular to that but involving streets, roads, and avenues and the side lanes (local lanes) are right next to the main road. Looking out for more Alex. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on June 23, 2009, 10:00:24 AM
Very nice update, Alex! Didn't expect that large of a downtown though.  ;)

And that brochure is pretty neat as well... looks exactly like a page of something I'd pick up in a rest area lobby. And that multi-way boulevard turned out great, but have you thought about grade-separating part of the center lanes?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: Blue Lightning on June 23, 2009, 10:05:03 AM
Well, looks like someone did their roadgeek homework  $%Grinno$% Awesome update as always Alex! I like how you dressed up the mulitway boulevard. The grass and trees make it look more desirable.
Also, even though your city is kinda griddy, the variations and sloping of the density make the grid look good and makes the city flow. Nicely done  :thumbsup:

I'm gonna keep my eyes out for the next update ;)

Vince
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: Battlecat on June 23, 2009, 01:04:30 PM
Nice start on the downtown, there are some pretty cool buildings there already.  Lots of room left for growth though.  Looking forward to more as always. 

As for the local access roads, we also have something very similar along the rural portion of the main freeway where I live.  They are called the north and south parallel roads (not terribly imaginative names, but they get the point across), and they maintain access to farms and roads that would otherwise be isolated by the freeway when it went in. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Tarkus on June 24, 2009, 01:47:22 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, as promised, I'm back again for replies.  And I've got another update in store for you after that.

Also, a couple milestones . . . we've surpassed 50k views (and are approaching 51k), and Tarkusian Cities celebrated it's second birthday on June 17th.  The first update occurred back in 2007--hard to believe it's been that long.

UPDATE 51 REPLIES

Pat: Hehe . . . I should have been so hasty to use the "i word" it seems. :D  Glad you enjoyed the update, and don't worry--you won't have to wait until the big 100 for another Tarkusian Video.  I'm still trying to decide what city/region I should focus on for the next one.

TmiguelT:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and it does sound a little sci-fi-ish. :D  And I hear you about those late nights. ;) 

deathtopumpkins: Thanks for the compliments on the construction--the road is indeed getting a fair amount of use there.  And you'll be seeing plenty of that development here soon . . . as there's a couple other construction projects that take place right in that vicinity coming up.  And I really should stop using that word. :D

metarvo:  I'm happy to hear you enjoyed it--thanks!  You did indeed see some of that area in the video, too, which was actually shot after the residential area started in Update 51 had been built.  And I was thinking the same thing with the night construction--they tend to do it here on the more major thoroughfares to minimize disruption.  Just have to make sure you don't wake up the neighbors with the jackhammers. :D 

sebes:  LOL, thanks for the recommendation.  :D  And yes, it is indeed best to stay away during the sand-shoveling--it usually involves lots heavy machinery being used with reckless abandon here.  ::)

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it--and there shall be plenty more building here soon. ;)

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks for the kind words!  Hope it's been worth the wait!

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks for the great comment--I'm sure TDOT will be quite pleased.  Of course, the widened Los Endos Blvd is already starting to show signs of congestion again . . . and the solution to that will likely involve more modding. 

I'm happy to hear you liked the 75th Street extension, too--the residents are indeed finding it to be an easy way to get around.  As far as those powerpoles, I'm using Fukuda's, which can be picked up from the STEX (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=16152).

Dave (bighead99):  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!  I rather like how that intersection turned out, too.

Arthur (art128):  Thanks--I've always been rather keen on the process end of things as well. :)

Driftmaster07:  Welcome to Tarkusian Cities, and thanks for the kind words!  As far as the Avenue-Road Smooth Transition, that will likely be included in a future NAM update.  That piece has kind of ended up on the backburner . . . I still have it laying around here with a few things to fix on it--it's missing pedestrian paths and the CheckTypes need to be fixed in the RUL to make it plop easier.

Battlecat: Thanks for the congratulations, and for the compliments on the video!  I've always been fascinated with road construction, so I can't help but try to emulate it here in SC4--one of these days, I might have to do a video showing how I set up these construction updates in-game.

j-dub: Hehe . . . I often find myself thinking about the various RL projects I've seen when planning what to do next with this MD.  Sounds like your 75th Street is getting quite the massive upgrade, too.  I look back at some of the roads around the area where I grew up (Aloha, OR), and if it weren't for my navigational sense and frequent checking of local road jurisdiction websites, I wouldn't know where I was.  It's amazing just how much stuff changes sometimes.

UPDATE 52

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Thanks for the welcome back, my friend!  It's great to be going on this MD again.  I'm glad you enjoyed the Multi-Way Boulevard project--that word has been thrown around a lot in Eugene lately (there's a couple proposed), and I couldn't help but try to work it into an update somewhere.  I'm curious to see what you come up with, too!  Hope you enjoy this latest installment!

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the all-too-kind words!  I'm very flattered to hear you found it realistic, and the C Street/Mill Street pic is perhaps my favorite as well. 

metarvo: Very good guess on the highway renumbering!  In fact, you'll be seeing Highway 60 running through at least one other region here in a future update.  There's a little more to it as well--namely geographic positioning of the highway and the City of Los Endos.  A little hint of things to come:

[img=http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/4678/oregonrepublicsquarer.th.png]http:// (http://img199.imageshack.us/i/oregonrepublicsquarer.png/)

And thanks for the compliments on the Multi-Way Boulevard!

Jon (bakerton): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the update.  We've got a few proposed here, but none built yet really that I'm aware of.  We do have setups like you mentioned, though--usually, there in areas where the road has been widened quite a bit, but the old alignment has been preserved in part for local access.

deathtopumpkins:  Thanks--Los Endos is probably the biggest downtown I've built for some time now.  It does kind of seem to appear out of nowhere . . . like many downtowns here tend to.  And I'm glad you liked the brochure--that was exactly what I was going for!  Couldn't resist slipping in a few engineering buzzwords (like "context-sensitive"), either.  :D  That's an interesting idea concept the grade-separation, too.  The traffic volume here doesn't quite warrant that yet, but that's a great idea that I may have to experiment with!

Vince (Blue Lightning):  Yes, I guess they did.  :D  Thanks for the kind words on the update and on the Multi-Way Boulevard in particular--I'm really pleased with how it came out.  And a great observation on the grid/density/sloping thing, too.  I tried to vary the grid size as well a bit, too . . . the grid west of 0th is actually a bit larger than that to the east.  Hope your eyes enjoy this latest update!

Battlecat:  Thanks for the compliments on the downtown!  I've got a fair amount of Cerulean, SimGoober and ks_jpn stuff in there as I recall, all on Stage 9-11 CAMeLots.  I'm not done expanding it yet, either--I'll see about putting an update on how things are going there.

We've got some similar stuff to what you're talking about here as well, particularly along Interstate 84 through the Columbia Gorge.  Before I-84 went in, US-30 was the main east-west highway in North-Central Oregon, and they've actually left parts of the old alignment right next to the freeway as two-way frontage roads.  It's always kind of interesting to see what the various transportation departments do with old sections of roadway when building freeways.

__________________________________________________

And now for more construction:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg365.imageshack.us%2Fimg365%2F3563%2Ftdotlogo250pxnotextar1.jpg&hash=617e3d2a3342256b86c8db99be60b793c34043c9) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F3408%2Fcityoflosendoslogo250px.png&hash=7fb487db5f1756a57dbb0bcfb533d033c20ae387)

NE 57th Street Extension and Los Endos Blvd Bridge Replacement

This project is designed to extend 57th Street beyond E Los Endos Blvd to provide better access to the Midland Hi-Tech area, as well as to connect to a future east-west arterial to be built north of Highway 60.  The new roadway will consist of 5 lanes and be built to a 45mph design speed.  It is a joint effort between TDOT and the City of Los Endos.

In addition to this project, the City of Los Endos, utilizing Delos County Traffic Impact Fee funding, paid for by the developers of new residential construction in East Los Endos, will construct a new 4-lane bridge on E Los Endos Blvd over Hammerhead Lake, to replace the obsolete 2-lane facility currently in place.  During the construction, motorists will be detoured onto NE 50th Street, Highway 60 and NE 31st Street.

Here is a map showing this area of this project:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F857%2F57thextensionbeforemap6.png&hash=6e244e7353d2ae197ff269fa933dd373c8198555)

The existing, outmoded 2-lane bridge facility on E Los Endos Blvd (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg221.imageshack.us%2Fimg221%2F3289%2Fu531.jpg&hash=ad92dd77df97fb0d91cbcbf3687ea93e05b41eb5)

The old bridge is dramatically demolished with explosives. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F6167%2Fu532.jpg&hash=ec83cd1ec80610712ae9e417d5e500d770d2f1cd)

The new bridge, an attractive steel arch design, is now built and open to traffic (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F6751%2Fu533.jpg&hash=0898c235d873a5a72b6bf6ee1ae5528103b4b699)

Now onto the 57th Street Extension:

This is the existing E Los Endos Blvd/SE 57th Street intersection, right near Target and the Delos County offices.  The Chick-Fil-A will have to be bulldozed to make way for the southbound lanes of NE 57th. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F3654%2Fu534.jpg&hash=ba3668f0da3d6b03d89632bfab4e007d86520a64)

This is the intersection of NE 50th Street with NE Von Neumann Way, just north of the Highway 60 interchange.  It is currently the only access to the Midland Hi-Tech Park and, as you can tell in the pic, it is quite severly congested (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F6825%2Fu535.jpg&hash=50e71d5dbf603f560866a0e34336a792d49b1eb9)

The Chick-Fil-A has been bulldozed (don't worry, they have other locations in Los Endos) and grading work has begun on the section of 57th between Los Endos and Highway 60. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg188.imageshack.us%2Fimg188%2F6216%2Fu536.jpg&hash=36c0c3d8969b768e031cc7ba454e281dd5559625)

Preparation for the Highway 60 overpass. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg200.imageshack.us%2Fimg200%2F7350%2Fu537.jpg&hash=b9fce27e4eab586dd9da29cf1fae366b183dd753)

This is the point at which the new 57th St extension will connect to Von Neumann Way and the existing dead-end portion of 57th. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg198.imageshack.us%2Fimg198%2F3968%2Fu538l.jpg&hash=5293143d26a5a639fe641f7795c4562f9bbdca8b)

The overpass is constructed. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg198.imageshack.us%2Fimg198%2F3551%2Fu539.jpg&hash=6713ed7409f0ff87e5a7841532879a8dcd8c4fe7)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F7879%2Fu5310.jpg&hash=76a47fa42f117de727f6278a473fa304b3ebabc7)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F184%2Fu5311.jpg&hash=b3449c435720f7557959cbb90785049ea0a4fb28)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F3205%2Fu5312.jpg&hash=3f29b8ddf6dc17befbc65d4cc46a9ac400b3a688)

The intersection with Von Neumann Way is built.  The existing curve is temporarily squared off so as to create a more perpendicular alignment with 57th. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F3205%2Fu5312.jpg&hash=3f29b8ddf6dc17befbc65d4cc46a9ac400b3a688)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg188.imageshack.us%2Fimg188%2F919%2Fu5316.jpg&hash=d9814c223bc31d215ad675ba3622e37cf74b3378)

Finally, a couple of pics of the new E Los Endos Blvd/57th Street intersection.

Facing north.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F5399%2Fu5317.jpg&hash=03ffffa0dfae2982eaf653795966cb208ae255e7)

Facing south.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg195.imageshack.us%2Fimg195%2F3540%2Fu5318.jpg&hash=fbf6c57d78729464be7b497a3288d0b103de8fe2)

And a map of the finished product:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F3386%2F57thextensionaftermap60.png&hash=d549f2719bb4987c31e401146f9e2b6e42569a5b)

That does it for this construction project--hope you enjoyed it, and keep an eye out for more TDOT action!

-Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 52--6/23/2009--Downtown Los Endos)
Post by: art128 on June 24, 2009, 01:52:10 AM
Another good update Alex, the new bridge is well choose and the new overpass is greatly done my friend. Also, great transportation layout, the map you done there is very good !
Take care,
-Arthur. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: DFire870 on June 24, 2009, 05:14:19 AM
It's been awhile since I've commented or even looked at this MD since I took a bit of a break from SC. But, since I've been back I've followed your MD again and still love it. I also love the multiway boulevard, it sorta reminds me of places here in Central Texas where businesses were along a road, but since there wasn't enough room to expand it, they built the expanded road on the other side of the businesses.

Great work as usual!

-- John
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Blue Lightning on June 24, 2009, 05:50:34 AM
Oooh yay more construction! I like your choice of bridge, it just seems to blend in with the area. The old bridge kinda sticks out. Also, a little error: That bridge is a steel cantilever bridge ;)

Well I can see that the TDOT doesn't mind tearing a few busnisses down to make other people travel safely and more efficicently  $%Grinno$%

Vince
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: rooker1 on June 24, 2009, 06:12:55 AM
Hey Alex,
Cool update.....but I think the bridge you choose doesn't look right in this application.  It looks too low.  I really like that bridge as well.  Just my opinion....
I have always loved how you show the construction of your transportation networks.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Pat on June 24, 2009, 02:15:22 PM
Alex fantastic update here and is that a new logo for TDOT? ooh btw how many feet up is that overpass? cause dang that is big crane for that overpass lol
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Battlecat on June 24, 2009, 03:01:43 PM
Nice update!  The roads just keep rolling onwards.  Shame about that restaurant, but as you say, they've got more locations. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on June 24, 2009, 03:17:01 PM
Now that is road construction done right. As with previous updates, #53 is a pleasure to follow. Great job! Might I ask, though, what BAT those county offices are?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Tomas Neto on June 25, 2009, 06:17:49 AM
Very nice update again! You have a wonderful region!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: bat on June 25, 2009, 10:41:35 AM
That's really nice! Wonderful update as always! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: JBSimio on June 25, 2009, 10:50:31 AM
Nice update, Alex!   :thumbsup:  The extension of 57th Street makes a lot of sense, and I'm glad to see it went off without too many glitches.  Construction projects like this always seem to claim at least a building or two, but I think the world will survive with one less Chik-Fil-A  (although they do have some great billboards!)  :D  I was almost expecting to see some additional ramps from Highway 60 at the new overpass, but I suppose some new traffic patterns will have to be studied to find out whether or not an additional exit is needed there.  I guess I just got ahead of myself... whereas you, naturally, did not!  ;)

I missed commenting on the previous section of downtown, but I really enjoyed that one as well.  The multi-way boulevard should serve the area well for quite some time.  I wouldn't be surprised if it also spurs a fair amount of new growth downtown as well.

See you next time!
JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 26, 2009, 01:46:26 PM
Very cool!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: bakerton on June 26, 2009, 02:21:00 PM
The summer past time is in full swing here. All of this construction pictures look awesome Alex. Keep bringing the road work. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: dedgren on June 26, 2009, 04:29:31 PM
Happy second birthday, TC!  I'm sure a good couple of thou of those page views are mine- I lurk here way too much.

I'll be watching, Alex, to see what the rest of the construction season brings us.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: TmiguelT on July 01, 2009, 10:33:20 PM
Another superb and very fast update!! It sure looks that you don't use DSL  :D. Great improvement of the 57th st and the Chick-Fil-a got served  $%Grinno$%. I'll sure be back to another update  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: EDGE4194 on July 02, 2009, 07:46:03 AM
glad to see TDOT is still keeping busy and providing jobs to the citizens. Will the on/off ramps for 57th come later?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on July 03, 2009, 03:43:15 AM
wow what another stunning transit update, i like the new bridge, :thumbsup: &apls although it looks to low for boat traffic?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: tr0ub1es0me on July 14, 2009, 04:03:52 PM
hi tarkus. some great work you have here. i just have a quick question, if you don't mind, please.  :)

the single lane roads here:
http://img7.imageshack.us/img7/6376/u488.jpg

how do you get those? are they a part of the RHW or other mod? sorry for my lack of knowledge but i've never used the RHW and i haven't been around to check out any CJs for a long time here or at ST...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on July 14, 2009, 04:09:50 PM
I believe what you're referring to is the MIS (modular interchange system), which is a component of the RHW.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: tr0ub1es0me on July 14, 2009, 04:19:34 PM
ok, that's what i thought. thanks! i may look at trying out the RHW mod one day.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: Sciurus on July 19, 2009, 05:46:23 AM
It's very nice, this construction is very nice &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53--6/24/2009--NE 57th Street Extension-Los Endos)
Post by: j-dub on July 19, 2009, 06:28:57 PM
Quote from: TarkusThis is the intersection of NE 50th Street with NE Von Neumann Way, just north of the Highway 60 interchange.  It is currently the only access to the Midland Hi-Tech Park and, as you can tell in the pic, it is quite severly congested (facing north).

It seems all the congestion is in the left lane. Looks like there is enough room to do a road ramp, and overpass here instead of a light, but in reality, I suppose thats out of the question.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Tarkus on July 27, 2009, 12:52:09 AM
Hi everyone-

My apologies for the lack of updates lately--RL and modding has been taking most of my time lately, but Tarkusian Cities is still alive . . .

Here's a look at things to come--an incomplete but nearly full map of the entire Los Endos region (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/PskF73lLUf), which I've uploaded onto GmapUploader.  There's still quite a few things that need labeling, but it should give you some idea.  The big yellowish thing toward the top is the Hephaestus Crater, in case you're wondering.

TDOT will commence construction shortly . . . thank you again for all the continued support and the great comments--I'll be getting back to them when construction starts up again. :)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Battlecat on July 27, 2009, 09:30:57 AM
That map is awesome, I didn't even know such a thing existing.  I'm going to have to look into that little chunk of software! 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: bakerton on July 27, 2009, 11:50:05 AM
Alex, what a cool looking map. looking forward to more TDOT construction. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: City Builder on July 27, 2009, 12:14:27 PM
Sorry to intrude with my question...

In a couple screen shots I notice that it appears that when you lay down roads they first start off as dirt paths and then the bulldozers come along and turn them into proper roads.  Is this a plugin that allows that?

Or is it that you had dirt roads to begin with and then went over them with proper roads?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on July 27, 2009, 02:50:37 PM
If I may, I'll answer City Builder's question.

Alex (Tarkus) uses the Street Addon Mod (SAM), which allows players to retexture the in-game streets with any one of eight different texture sets. Two of those sets are dirt street textures. Alex simply laid down streets along his construction sites and used one of these texture sets to make it look more like road construction is going on. The SAM is available on the LEX here (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1594).

That map looks terrific, Alex! I just might have to take advantage of that website in the not-too-distant future.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: darraghf on July 27, 2009, 02:57:57 PM
Well Done, I always love looking at your MD!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: dedgren on July 27, 2009, 10:28:19 PM
Another super map, Alex.  I'm going to have to learn how to use Gmap.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: BigSlark on July 28, 2009, 09:19:56 AM
That's a great map, Alex. I'm thoroughly impressed with your MD'ing and city building skills.

Quote from: dedgren on July 27, 2009, 10:28:19 PM
Another super map, Alex.  I'm going to have to learn how to use Gmap.


David


David, at some point in time well over a year ago, I sent you a link to one of the giant 3RR maps that I uploaded into gmap. I'll try to find the link to send to you again...

Cheers,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: TmiguelT on July 28, 2009, 03:42:25 PM
What an awesome map you got there alex  :o.... Truly impressive there my friend.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: RickD on July 29, 2009, 02:59:47 AM
Impressive map!
I am wondering what this is. It looks interesting:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Ramona Brie on August 02, 2009, 06:12:41 PM
I must bow down to you. This is amazing.

I wish there were some sort of artificial-intelligence version of you I could have open while I play SimCity so that I get tips on making my street layout better. I use 6x6 avenue grids in my big cities (prototypes do have some 2-lane roads). I even have some RHW and a unique interchange that could use your touch. (It was a T interchange extended into a 4-way but rather incomplete. An RHW-4 and RHW-6S meet.)

I am also working on a little something for you...what are the big cities in the Tarkusian collection again? Los Endos, Argentium...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: bat on August 03, 2009, 07:32:02 AM
That map looks really FANTASTIC! Wonderful work on it! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: EDGE4194 on August 04, 2009, 07:42:39 PM
nice job alex! it's nice to finally see the entire map.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: Jmouse on August 04, 2009, 08:14:12 PM
Terrific job on the map, Alex, but no surprise - you've always been good at making them. :) Looking forward to seeing construction start up again.

Later...

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 53.5--7/27/2009--Big Los Endos Map Teaser)
Post by: gozac123 on August 13, 2009, 04:43:22 PM
Is it just me or are alot of your Cities named after famous prog rock musicians? Emerson, Lake, Palmer. Chris Squire etc,  Nice job Tarkus  :satisfied:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Tarkus on September 06, 2009, 09:17:12 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, Tarkusian Cities is back again with another update finally.  Going to take a little break from construction to ease back into things, by looking at some of the development that has gone in on the north side of Lenox.

And before we get to that, I'd like to finally reveal the "on the map" rewards for Dustin (thundercrack83) and nerdly_dood, our 700th and 800th posters, respectively.

In the Broadvine area, east of Los Endos, you'll find Highway 81, the Thundercrack Highway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg35.imageshack.us%2Fimg35%2F2366%2Fle23broadvine09062009.th.png&hash=9853505f3934695df90987bea635aa984624f8a1) (http://img35.imageshack.us/i/le23broadvine09062009.png/)

And near Lenox, in a newer high tech area northeast of downtown, you'll find Nerdly Lane, which is due to be extended east as part of a future city/county cooperative project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg143.imageshack.us%2Fimg143%2F7144%2Flenoxvalleymapiv1270905.th.png&hash=664adb9ee7c8ac9c44d548e6647c31094fa6d14c) (http://img143.imageshack.us/i/lenoxvalleymapiv1270905.png/)

To the north of Nerdly Lane on the above map, you'll find Maridia Way, which will be the focus of this update. 

This area, which is generically just referred to as "North Lenox" by locals, is a relatively well-off area, near the Lenox Woods Golf Course (at the corner of Brinstar and Maridia). 

Maridia Way is also horribly congested, as you'll see in these pics.

Looking south toward the golf course, just west of the Brinstar intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg246.imageshack.us%2Fimg246%2F3848%2Fu541.jpg&hash=501ba55c6e7beccdaafa79871b0c7023eb1176bd)

Looking north at the northern edge of the course.  You can see the traffic just stacking up.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg32.imageshack.us%2Fimg32%2F1566%2Fu542.jpg&hash=da8ece9d994fd4229b625bc8b0f6e58fb378e55c)

Looking south at a North Lenox neighborhood.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg44.imageshack.us%2Fimg44%2F1305%2Fu543.jpg&hash=e733bcd4e50ef1eff0416c2cc56b5a9129f79934)

Looking north out of the neighborhood toward the Maridia Way/Wheatstone Terrace roundabout.  As you can see, North Lenox has a small commercial district, containing a La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery.  There is also a grocery store just to the east.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg134.imageshack.us%2Fimg134%2F1518%2Fu544.jpg&hash=1dcd65277059cf109b526520b3382f2c4f3dac3b)

Finally, a couple close-ups of the Maridia/Wheatstone roundabout, both facing east.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg143.imageshack.us%2Fimg143%2F5205%2Fu545.jpg&hash=788b765fe7bafece612aad1f2d6c32f11af4b3d9)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg512.imageshack.us%2Fimg512%2F4882%2Fu546.jpg&hash=da88940bcf2a19c32aaf26854f9995fa80261afa)

That does it for this latest update.  I'll be back with replies in a bit, and if all goes to plan, a new update sometime this week.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: joelyboy911 on September 06, 2009, 10:05:37 PM
Cool. Just wondering which canal / pond set you're using?

I do love roundabouts. I see you're an asphalt street fan like me, do you notice that some important textures seem to be missing? I think SAM needs to be updated for road roundabout connectivity. But for now I can live with having to convert to road, or having a concrete patch.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: u.mueller on September 06, 2009, 11:46:41 PM
Tarkus: Great update! I always try to emulate your work, but oh boy... Looks awesome!

Joelyboy911: That looks like MAS71's set. Here on the LEX.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: io_bg on September 06, 2009, 11:58:41 PM
Guys, this is Jeronij's canal set ;) It's on the LEX.

Fantastic update, I particularly like the maps and the golf course! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: ecoba on September 07, 2009, 09:31:17 AM
Great Update, Alex. I wonder what will possibly happen on Maridia Way, (please tell me I spelled Maridia right). Possibly a widening?

Great to have you back Alex, and let's hope we have that update this week.

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: nerdly_dood on September 07, 2009, 10:43:59 AM
Oh, I just love it when people name streets after me! ()stsfd()

Great update as usual!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on September 07, 2009, 06:26:56 PM
Short & Sweet i like the pond :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: bat on September 08, 2009, 09:59:22 AM
Nice work on the golf course and area next to it... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Ryan B. on September 08, 2009, 10:05:19 AM
Nice update, Alex.  That roundabout doesn't look out-of-place at all.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: JBSimio on September 08, 2009, 10:14:31 AM
Yay, Alex made an update!   :thumbsup:  It's nice to see the extra "before" pictures this time around... I'm interested to see how the upgrades will impact the area.  There seems to be a fair amount of space for widening there, but of course one never knows what could happen when the bulldozers get fired up.

JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Ramona Brie on September 08, 2009, 07:04:12 PM
At last, an update! And is it pretty!

Edit: I've doctored this part of your map (Orson and Milton in Lenox) to show a more sensible alignment plan.

Before: The fact that Orson Road crosses the rail line twice merely to intersect Milton Avenue is silly...rail traffic thus affects road traffic twice.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F3843%2Fscreenshot20090908at707.png&hash=22832ff5694c5b3213396ffeb0c1f716c0399391)

After: Orson Road no longer crosses the railway here. Milton Avenue gets a small extension to the realigned Orson.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F3843%2Fscreenshot20090908at707.png&hash=21a923d0d94cb45115d39cd69f7db9a51b867671)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Battlecat on September 09, 2009, 09:59:29 AM
Nice preview there!  That are certainly does have some traffic issues.  I'll be interested to see how this is solved.

@Tracker:  That's not a half bad idea there.  Certainly two railway crossings like that will severely hinder a major road corridor. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: TmiguelT on September 09, 2009, 06:29:08 PM
Finally You are back !!  &apls

Awesome Update you have there :D... It was a bit small but it was perfect. I love everything on it  :thumbsup:

@Tracker: I like your Ideas... You really are working hard to solve a problem  &apls. I would love to see more of those Replies.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: EDGE4194 on September 09, 2009, 07:17:19 PM
nice update! i especially like the jrj canal pond- it looks great next to the roundabout.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Mid-Update Replies)
Post by: Tarkus on September 10, 2009, 01:22:08 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, as promised, I'm back to respond to the many great comments you've left, including the ones over the past couple updates that I haven't gotten around to yet.  Some of you have asked some very interesting questions and points that I'm looking forward to responding to.

NE 57th Street Extension/Los Endos Blvd Bridge Projects (Update 53)

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the kind words!  I'm glad you agree with my bridge choice there--I was looking for something more on the modern end there.  Also, thanks for the compliments on the overpass and the map--there will certainly be some interesting changes on the latter to show soon.

John (DFire870): First of all, good to see you again!  Thanks for the compliments on the multi-way boulevard, too, and for sharing that tidbit of Central Texas road design.  That sounds like a rather interesting layout, and I'd be curious to see it. :)

Vince (Blue Lightning): Thanks!  I'm glad you concur with the bridge choice (and knew its proper name, unlike me :D), and I agree that the old one was really quite out of place.  It was built before the Tartan area really boomed into its current state.  And TDOT sure loves its bulldozers, too.  They usually are pretty good about compensating land owners when they need to plow through, though.  I think Chick-Fil-A will be getting rather irritated with them before long, though (as you'll see in a future update).

Robin (rooker1): Thanks for the kind words and the constructive feedback--I appreciate it!  :thumbsup: That's a good point about the bridge height there, and I agree it looks a little funny, though I was kind of constrained by the city tile size there, as there's a neighbor connection almost immediately at the end of the bridge.  I might revisit that, though, to see if I can't come up with a better solution.  And I'm glad to hear you're enjoying the construction.  There will certainly be more where that came from. ;)

Pat: Thanks for the kind words!  And to answer your questions, TDOT's still using the same logo, but with some new slogans underneath on occasion--and the slogans are . . . er . . . "context-sensitive". :D  As far as the overpass, it's just the standard 15m height, though judging by the size of that crane, I'd have to think Tim the Toolman Taylor (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Taylor_%28character%29) was in charge of selecting the equipment for TDOT.  (Fortunately, he wasn't responsible for operating it. :D)

Battlecat:  Thanks, glad you enjoyed the construction!  And Chick-Fil-A's other Los Endos location is doing quite well.  They're rumored to be looking for another location in the area to replace the restaurant they lost.

Zack (woodb3kmaster):  Thanks for the compliments!  And to answer your question, the county office building was SimGoober's Santa Clara City Hall.

Tomas Neto:  Thanks, I'm very pleased to hear you liked the region!

bat: Thanks for the kind words!  I appreciate it.

Jon (JBSimio): Thanks, I'm very glad to hear you enjoyed the update and that the extension made sense.  As far as putting an exit off of Highway 60 there at 57th, I was considering it, but it would have ended up being too close to the 50th and 65th Street interchanges.  However, TDOT will be starting up a "modernization" project along Highway 60, and they are looking at a few options there as part of the Interchange Area Management Plan (IAMP). 

And thanks for the compliments on downtown--and I think your prediction will come true. ;)

Alex (Driftmaster07):  Thanks--I appreciate it!

Jon (bakerton): It is indeed . . . and now there will be a Fall extension to the construction season, too. :)  Thanks for the kind words, as always!

David (dedgren):  Thanks for the birthday wishes for TC!  It's hard to believe it's been so long.  One of these days I'm going to have to hold a "No Lurkers Day" like you do over at 3RR . . . I suspect you're not alone.

TmiguelT: Thanks!  And coincidentally, I am actually on DSL at the moment. :D  Chick-Fil-A's also going to have to start looking for better locations, too--you'll see why here soon.

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks!  And to answer your question, we'll see what happens when TDOT gets around to the modernization project and releases some "design alternatives" for that stretch.

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the update, and the bridge is indeed a bit low.  Fortunately, it's not blocking any important traffic on the water.  The northern part of Hammerhead Lake is generally used for recreational purposes.

tr0ub1es0me:  Thanks for the kind words, and as Zack (woodb3kmaster) mentioned, that's the MIS from the RHW mod.  If you ever have any RHW-related questions, feel free to ask--I'm happy to help!

Guillaume (Sciurus): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the construction!  Plenty more of that to come. ;)

j-dub:  Great observation, and thanks for the interesting suggestion to consider! :thumbsup:  The main issue there is that the 50th/Von Neumann intersection is the easiest way to get to the hi-tech area from Highway 60.  I think that whole corridor there is going to need some further study.  There's a lot of issues with it right now, so TDOT will be busy for plenty of time to come. :D

Big Los Endos Map Teaser (Update 53.5)

Battlecat:  Thanks for the kind words!  Gmapuploader has come in handy for me on numerous occasions with these large map projects, and I'd highly recommend it.  It's relatively simple to use.  I'd like to at some point do something a little more advanced, so one of these days I might have to go spelunking around the Google Maps API further.

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks, and I am too. :)

City Builder: No worries--it's actually a very good question, and thanks for asking!  Basically, what Zack (woodb3kmaster)) said below you.  I'm using SAM Set 3 (Peg Dirt Roads) for my "under construction" purposes.  It can also serve to help grade the area where I want to build a new roadway, though sometimes, when I'm a bit more "non-committal" on steeper slopes, I'll just use the Dirt Road lots in the SFBT Construction Set.  I usually just tear out the Dirt Streets when I'm done, and build the new roadway on blank land, rather than upgrading. 

One of these days, I'll have to do a "Making Of" video, though.

Zack (woodb3kmaster):  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the map, and I'm sure you'll have lots of fun with Gmapuploader. :)  It comes highly recommended.  And thanks for helping answer some of the questions in here, too!   :thumbsup:

Darragh (darraghf): Thanks for the kind words!

David (dedgren): Thanks--and I really take that as a compliment given that you're practically the map-master with 3RR, and certainly my main inspiration in getting into it.  I can't wait to see what you do with Gmap.

Kevin (BigSlark):  Thank you for the very kind words, my friend--and thank you for introducing me to Gmapuploader in the first place, too.  I found out about it when I saw the giant 3RR map link you posted, in fact.

TmiguelT:  Thanks, I really appreciate it!

RickD:  Thank you for the compliments, and to answer your question, that's actually a short little freeway loop.  I haven't gotten around to marking all that yet, but that's Highway 867.  Basically, it connects Highway 60 and Los Endos Blvd to Lindfors International Airport.  I'll have more details to show on it at some point down the road--I'm actually pretty proud of how that little stretch turned out.

Tracker:  Thanks for the all-too-kind words!  Sounds like you're on a good track with those Avenues, too.  Argentum is just saturated with them, and they tend to do the job very nicely, even downtown with all the Stage 11 CAMeLots.

bat:  Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks for the kind words!  Now I just need to finish labeling everything. :)

Joan (Jmouse):  Thank you for the compliments on the map!  The bulldozers are getting ready again . . .

gozac123:  Thanks!  And yes, I do indeed have a tendency to name cities, roads and landmarks after prog rock musicians.  Prog tunes as well, in the case of Los Endos (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Los_Endos).  Being a big fan of that genre of music, and being a fan of sneaking hidden references into things, I can't help it. :D

North Lenox/Maridia Way Tour (Update 54)

Joel (joelyboy911):  Thanks!  And to answer your question, that's jeronij's Urban Canal Set, which I use almost exclusively for my canal and pond building.  I've always liked the look of the OWR roundabouts as well, as they look like the single-lane roundabouts here in Oregon.  And I agree on the SAM end--it would definitely come in handy. :)

u.mueller:  Thanks for the kind words, and I'd love to see what you've come up with at some point.  I always enjoy seeing SC4-related roadgeekery.

Ioan (io_bg):  Thanks for the compliments on the maps and the golf course!  I'm glad you enjoyed them!

Ethan (ecoba):  Thanks, it's good to be back!  And yes, you spelled it exactly right.  As far as a widening goes, that's certainly a possibility.  The big "chokehold" on traffic patterns right now is the Brinstar/Maridia intersection, and Brinstar Road is even in worse shape than Maridia Way, as you'll soon see.

nerdly_dood:  Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for making #800!  It was my pleasure putting Nerdly Lane on the map!

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the pond!  I have to give Jeroni (jeronij) a serious round of applause for making such an awesome canal set, too. &apls

bat:  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the golf course and vicinity. :)

Ryan B.:  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad the roundabout wasn't out of place there.  I was kind of shooting for a "upper-middle-class subdivision with a slightly Euro-inspired developer" look there. :D

Jon (JBSimio):  Thanks for the welcome back and the kind words!  Also, thanks for the feedback on the extended "before" shot concept.  I think I may have to do that more often.   The preliminary plan calls for widening to four lanes between the roundabout and Brinstar--the main issue is going to be minimizing impact on the little bit of commercial space and the forested setting of the golf course.

Tracker:  Thanks for the compliments, and the interesting proposal on Orson Road!  As far as why the road is currently aligned the way it is, I think this picture should explain it somewhat:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg32.imageshack.us%2Fimg32%2F4536%2Freply09092009.jpg&hash=f8c0b992e789784c9b9f5a2a8965e560be86ea35)

If the ground were completely flat and the railroad crossings at-grade, the road would have been built very similarly to what you proposed.  However, Orson Road sits right next to a fairly steep hill, so it would have been very expensive to build a straighter alignment like that.  The railroad has fortunately been elevated, too, so there's not really any pressing safety concern there.  The road curves out farther mainly because the City of Lenox wanted to keep the design speed up, too--Orson has a 40mph speed limit. 

I agree, though, that this corridor might be a good candidate in the future for some sort of realignment improvement if traffic volumes were to increase, though--which they likely will as the area to the south gets developed further. 

Battlecat: Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the little preview there, and thanks for the input on the Orson alignment as well!

TmiguelT:  Thanks for the warm welcome back, and for the compliments on the update!  Hopefully, I'll have something a bit more substantial to satisfy your road construction diet here soon. :)

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you liked the JRJ Canal Pond! 

I'll be back here shortly with a new update.  We'll probably look at what happens with the North Lenox area (namely, the Brinstar/Maridia intersection), and perhaps even journey north up the freeway to Lenox's northern "rival", Arboris.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Battlecat on September 10, 2009, 08:30:48 AM
Ahhh, that makes more sense!  The elevated railway does explain a lot about what's going on in that neighbourhood. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: Ramona Brie on September 10, 2009, 07:51:39 PM
Thanks. That does explain a lot about that alignment, but still, I do see a LOT of freight traffic, which in my eyes makes it all the more feasible to at least widen or do a grade over the steep land.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 54--9/6/2009--I'll Be The Roundabout)
Post by: j-dub on September 10, 2009, 08:12:42 PM
A lot of times in my RL after road widening has been completed, the speed limit may be lowered 5 to 10 mph from what it originally was. &sly I also have to say roundabouts are starting to become more common in my state. For the most part, I think the road ones are okay if its only up to four ways, traffic seems to continuously move through them, even at rush hour, and I don't mean those traffic circles in the middle of a pre-existing intersection. However, avenue roundabouts are a threat. I have seen stop signs finally get put on the ones that are 6 ways, rather then a yield sign, and they just clog up. Seems to be no resolution.

Also, if this was reality, and development is going to hit where I think it is, your going to have a lot of angry tree huggers on your hand.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: Tarkus on September 20, 2009, 05:17:33 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update here at long last . . . this time we'll be taking a "detour" up to Lenox's northern "rival", Arboris for a larger update, while the City of Lenox gets their engineering plans in place for the North Lenox projects.

But first, replies:

Battlecat: I'm glad it makes more sense now--I'd probably have the same questions looking at that map, too, so I'm looking at ways to better mark overpasses.  You'll see an example on this update's map.

Tracker: You're welcome!  And actually, I only see one large truck in that image. ;)  The traffic using Orson Road is primarily commuters going between downtown and the industrial area at the freeway.  It'll definitely need some work as South Lenox gets more development, though.

j-dub: Speed reductions after widening?  That's kind of counterintuitive, if you ask me.  They usually keep them the same up here, and in some cases, even raise them. 

And fortunately, I think the treehuggers will be relatively satisfied with what will be going on in North Lenox.  Very few trees will be removed under the proposed plan.  Buildinghuggers might want to turn away, and I have a feeling a certain chain restaurant won't be too pleased, either. ::)

___________________________________________________

Now onto the update.  As previously mentioned, we'll be taking a tour of Arboris, a city about 15 miles northwest of Lenox.  The map below will illustrate downtown Arboris and its immediate vicinity.  I've gotten around to naming most of the roads, but there are still a number of roads and features that need to be named . . . ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F7374%2Fu55arborismap.th.png&hash=3217bcd069a3b37bf9be12b9ba5c92091cce5ceb) (http://img11.imageshack.us/i/u55arborismap.png/)

Now for a look around town:

Along 5th Avenue, looking north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg43.imageshack.us%2Fimg43%2F4538%2Fu551.jpg&hash=c6a3425a9529d0ec5f577dbb90111307d5197e31)

A look along the "main drag" through downtown, 3rd Avenue, facing west.  The One-Way cross-street is Pacific Avenue, another important arterial through town, while the Road is SW Balance Street.  Arboris has a mostly alphabetic street name ordering which is divided by Pacific.  The west side, however, oddly omits an "A" street.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F1506%2Fu552.jpg&hash=d039440e53fd08da79c824c59e8aad0a18a308ae)

Facing south from the large commercial towers at 3rd and Balance.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg43.imageshack.us%2Fimg43%2F6264%2Fu553.jpg&hash=0c2b4888f72388337d108d1f03bc36f65d31b2fa)

A mosaic of downtown, facing west
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg188.imageshack.us%2Fimg188%2F549%2Fu55mosaic1.jpg&hash=33955b92bca89e0b19b662d55cf8890e10d748a1)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F2245%2Fu55mosaic2.jpg&hash=62b53e7318ac69c0b6aacb6c1b9bcbe7045abf69)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg197.imageshack.us%2Fimg197%2F381%2Fu55mosaic3.jpg&hash=d4ef32b5a336935a8564c9142c1d52cb46977b49)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg197.imageshack.us%2Fimg197%2F808%2Fu55mosaic4.jpg&hash=6565cbce98f89d986bb498dcee4c88c14465157d)

Another major intersection on the south end of downtown, facing south.  This is where Pacific splits into a one-way couplet with Atlantic Street at 6th Avenue.  You can tell the landscape designer who was hired to snazz up this intersection was from Los Angeles.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F4974%2Fu554.jpg&hash=00d4abf8a3bd885c97e0339ec6af0eea31dbd106)

A look at a close-in residential area downtown, facing north.  This is along SE 5th and 6th, with the road down the center of the pic being SE Caspian Street.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F3268%2Fu555.jpg&hash=30ad75e13e68b07b07ea75591114ecdb6e3e7cb7)

On the north side of the river, south of Montpelier Avenue and east of Atlantic is the Little Italy district.  It was the original "downtown" of Arboris but was damaged by a series of fires in the mid-20th century.  The district has recovered nicely, and most of the buildings have been restored, albeit some were razed for more modern structures.  This pic is facing west.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg42.imageshack.us%2Fimg42%2F4848%2Fu556.jpg&hash=19c51559e62112ad07de05405290d7dc18ecb573)

West of Highway 9 and just south of the river is the old industrial district.  This is along SW 3rd, facing west.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg85.imageshack.us%2Fimg85%2F5793%2Fu557.jpg&hash=73cb2c3723202ab7c8aee739f644a3155018337d)

Also looking west, in the vicinity of SW 5th.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg198.imageshack.us%2Fimg198%2F8181%2Fu558.jpg&hash=bedee42ad33cd8f47887c5c7677c9f150a749ee5)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F8798%2Fu559.jpg&hash=8dac8e722d20fd3f4642f06049415673c0b54c31)

The southern end is bounded by the railroad viaduct, along Ridley Road.  This is facing south.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F7681%2Fu5510.jpg&hash=c7090e5a2fa5b2be896708cef9cc8d8b7fe6b680)

Freeway access to Arboris is relatively poor right now.  This rather nonchalant interchange at Highway 30 and Hudson Street (facing north) is right now the closest access to downtown.  TDOT is planning on redesigning the Highway 9/Highway 30 interchange and this plan will likely include another interchange at 3rd or Pacific.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg14.imageshack.us%2Fimg14%2F4246%2Fu5511.jpg&hash=8add4c09cd8136b1f24d7599428f16673f6ce014)

And finally, a look at the south side of town, which is more suburban in nature.

This is along Pacific Street near 11th, facing south.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg32.imageshack.us%2Fimg32%2F7472%2Fu5512.jpg&hash=6f6262e226ad018cb15def7a4090d76d9ee20e6c)

One of the major intersections on this side of town is at 17th and Pacific.  Here it is facing north, toward downtown:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg29.imageshack.us%2Fimg29%2F2091%2Fu5513.jpg&hash=fb2e2bf2143ee4ca7e5605fe79232fab02630be6)

And facing south:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg29.imageshack.us%2Fimg29%2F5467%2Fu5514.jpg&hash=776b6094c374e8992ab2dac5a654ba8e0f4947b3)

Hudson Street turns into Sleepydale Road a few blocks south of Highway 30, where it takes a scenic climb through the hills south of Arboris.
Facing west.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F5325%2Fu5515.jpg&hash=9b6f67ab0ee66bfcc02fa61e903f3382f612ff34)

Also facing west.  Note the powerlines running over the road.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F4092%2Fu5516.jpg&hash=75c6e18c87c4ab69c1f0e1c0bcd5749e4e8d9b73)

This is where the powerlines have come from (facing west).  Arboris has a small turbine farm up on the hill, which is reached by a little access road from Sleepydale.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg29.imageshack.us%2Fimg29%2F2123%2Fu5517.jpg&hash=13539de2fa861e993680eb3886081f171b3160e0)

And that does it for this update--I'll be back with something here relatively soon.  Hope you enjoyed this tour of Arboris!  And we're almost at the big #900 . . . someone will be getting "on the map" shortly.

Edit: The last few images weren't showing up correctly--that's been fixed now.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 20, 2009, 06:29:07 PM
Good job!

1. Love the new hghway texture.
2. Love the Avenue Turn lane new texture!
3. Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: ecoba on September 21, 2009, 04:50:36 AM
Great Update, Alex!

And like other Alex said, that's a smashing new highway texture, but don't go too fast with the RHW, or SA won't be able to keep up with Euro Textures.

Arboris is a very interesting city, and I do hope that we will be able to see some more of it. Especially if bulldozers and orange cones are involved! ;D

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on September 21, 2009, 05:25:42 AM
Not a bad update at all. Shame there isn't much traffic on that freeway there... wouldn't it have been better as a RHW-4? That would've provided you with quite a few nice updates for widening that freeway. :P

QuoteAnd like other Alex said, that's a smashing new highway texture, but don't go too fast with the RHW, or SA won't be able to keep up with Euro Textures.

Don't worry... I'm not having problems with textures. In fact, right now, I'm focusing on making new puzzle pieces. ;)


(and this is comment #900. Welcome to the next page, too.)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: EDGE4194 on September 21, 2009, 06:48:27 AM
alex- nice update! i think this is the most developed area we've seen from you. Very realistic (even the abandoned buildings  :D). parking garages seem to be rare though. parking must be hard to find in the city center!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: Ryan B. on September 21, 2009, 08:55:42 AM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on September 20, 2009, 06:29:07 PM
Good job!

1. Love the new hghway texture.
2. Love the Avenue Turn lane new texture!
3. Keep up the good work!

It's not exactly new - I recognize it as mine from '06 or '07.  :P

Looks great, Alex!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: Battlecat on September 21, 2009, 11:01:43 AM
Great update!  That's a very nice looking town with a diverse variety of neighborhoods! 

That symbol that shows grade separation for the one viaduct works pretty nicely.  At the very least it gets the point across!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: TmiguelT on September 21, 2009, 11:53:38 AM
what a magnificent update you brought us there Alex  &apls.

I love Everything and i would like to see construction going on there  ()stsfd()...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: Ramona Brie on September 22, 2009, 06:54:33 PM
Really pretty. You paint masterpieces, except your paintbrush is a paving tool and your palette the RHW.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: City Builder on September 22, 2009, 06:59:36 PM
Really nice update.  Thanks once more for sharing.  Everytime that I see an update here it makes me want to immediately start up SC4 and see if I can make anything near as nice as what you've created.  To date I've not, but I love to keep trying.

Looking forward to your next updated.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: threestooges on September 23, 2009, 01:56:25 AM
Very nice as usual Alex. You have a knack for the urban planning thing, and pictures like the 13th you showed really show it off. The pathways flanking the avenue with the suburbs on either side reminds me of some of the developments around here. What really caught my eye, and something that reminds me of something else around here (around my old undergrad): The Tube! Those LAX tubes are always an interesting site to drive by, especially at night (for those who don't know what I'm talking about: they have a bunch of tubes at LAX (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Highsmithlaxlightsdnc2000.jpg) that change colors at night. They were built for the 2000 Democratic National Convention.). I had originally thought you were talking about the sparse bushes and such until I saw that. Nice touch. Overall, the whole update looks great. Amazingly city-like. My only critique might be about the windmills and their spacing. Laterally there seems to be plenty, but having them stacked behind each other so close seems like it might obstruct the air flow. I know there seems to be greater spacing along I-10 out toward Palm Desert/Palm Springs for the ones out there. Looking forward to what's to come as always.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: City Builder on September 23, 2009, 01:32:29 PM
Yes on the windmill farm near to Palm Springs they are spaced much futher apart.  I live just about 10 minutes away from the wind farm.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: u.mueller on September 23, 2009, 10:00:55 PM
Yeah, as I work for a company which does wind farms, I can tell you they need to be spaced at least 4 times the rotor diameter apart, otherwise the turbulence from the rotors will tear your wind turbines apart and also you will not earn any money with the rear turbines.

Apart from that, GREAT WORK as usual! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: JBSimio on September 23, 2009, 10:50:57 PM
Alex,

Wind turbines aside... I really enjoyed this update!   ;)

The downtown area looks great.  I tried to figure out the California reference near the one-way split... but I gave up eventually.  :)  I especially like the corner of Pacific and 17th.  The residential surrounded by sound walls was a very nice (and realistic) touch!   :thumbsup:

I'll be waiting to see what's next...
JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: hooha47 on September 25, 2009, 11:21:16 AM
I just had to pop in and tell you how much I've enjoyed reading your MD.  As a fellow Northwesterner, I can say that you've captured the essence of the Columbia River Gorge perfectly.  I've also been following your progress with TuLEPs and am a big fan of the RHW, which you're obviously putting to good use here.

Keep up the great work, and thanks for all your contributions. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 55--9/20/2009--Arboris)
Post by: bakerton on October 12, 2009, 07:38:09 AM
Awesome update Alex. Everything is turning out great and I do hope that the snow doesn't fall so the construction projects get done faster that stop and wait for spring. Looking out for more down the road. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: Tarkus on October 27, 2009, 06:39:29 PM
Well, Tarkusian Cities is finally lurching slowly forward again, and we'll finally take a look at the City of Lenox's efforts to improve traffic flow in the North Lenox area we looked at in Update 54.

First off, I'll get to some long-overdue replies.

Alex (Driftmaster07): Thanks!  I'm glad to hear you liked the new highway texture--those will be the default in RHW Version 4.0.  And as far as the Avenue Turn Lane texture used there, it's actually Ryan B.'s.  I made a mod using part of his old TWLTL (Two-Way Left Turn Lane mod--the inspiration for the NWM's TLA-5).

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks for the kind words!  And don't worry, I won't overload Daniel (Shadow Assassin).  :D  I'm glad to hear you liked Arboris as well, and I can guarantee it's only a matter of time before the construction equipment comes out in force . . .

Daniel (Shadow Assassin):  Thanks--glad you liked it, and I concur about that freeway . . . it is a bit sparse right now.  TDOT perhaps jumped the gun there. :D  I think part of it is that it's suffering from "Seattle syndrome" . . . not enough access out of downtown to the freeway.  I think there's still quite a bit to reconstruct there, though--a couple more interchanges, namely.

And thanks for making reply #900!  You'll get to see Shadow Mountain Boulevard next update. :)

Eric (EDGE4194): I'm glad you enjoyed it--thanks!  And I was going for exactly what you mentioned--a bit more built-up area.  Thanks for the suggestion on parking garages as well--I think that could be a good addition.

Ryan B.: Thanks!  And thanks for the Avenue Turn Lane texture--I've been using it for years. :)

Battlecat:  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you like the diversity of neighborhoods.  I thought I'd kind of mix things up with Arboris, and I'm pleased to hear it came across.  And thanks for the feedback on the grade separation symbol . . . I think I'll make it a regular feature in future maps!

TmiguelT: Thanks, my friend--and it's not a matter of "if" but "when" as far as construction goes. ;)

Tracker:  Thanks, and nice metaphor! :)

City Builder:  Thank you for the very kind words--I'm always just absolutely stoked when I can inspire someone to fire up the game.  Hope you enjoy this latest update!  And thanks for the feedback on the turbines as well :)

Matt (threestooges): Thank you for the all-too-kind words!  And I'm glad you caught the LAX tubes there as well.  I've always thought those tubes were pretty cool since the first time I traveled to LA in 2001, and found them up on the STEX years ago and have wanted to use them somewhere down the line.  Thanks for sharing the history behind them as well--I learned something! :)  And thanks for the suggestion on the turbines, too! 

u.mueller: Thanks for the compliments, and for the detailed feedback on the turbine spacing--it's great to get advice from someone who actually works with turbines and wind farms for a living!  I'll certainly put it to use, and will be sure to show off the "improved" wind farm in a future update.

Jon (JBSimio):  Thanks--I appreciate the kind words, and I'm very pleased to hear you liked the Pacific/17th intersection.  That's probably my favorite part of the last update--I've always enjoyed building suburbs.

hooha47:  Alright, a fellow northwesterner! :thumbsup:  Thanks for the all-too-kind words, and I'm really quite flattered for the Columbia Gorge comparison--that's one of my favorite parts of the region and I'm always excited when I get to drive through it.  And speaking of TuLEPs, you'll get to see some this update . . .

Jon (bakerton): Thanks!  And don't worry, snow doesn't fall too often around the Lenox area, so the crews will at least be able to do some work there.  Albeit we got a freakish ton of snow in Western Oregon last year . . . 2 feet at some spots in the valley . . .

__________________________________________________________________-
And now, onto the update.

CITY OF LENOX Department of Public Works
Brinstar Road Project, Phase I

The purpose of this project is to improve Brinstar Road between the Lenox River to just south of Hidden valley Road (Highway 231, former Highway 151).  Brinstar is a major north-south arterial connecting many northeastern suburban neighborhoods and hi-tech parks to downtown Lenox, and increased growth in the area has rendered the existing 2-lane roadway obsolete.

Phase I of the project will widen the segment between Maridia Way and Nerdly Lane to 4 travel lanes, with intersection improvements at Maridia and Nerdly.

Now, a look at Phase I construction:

First off, here's the map of Lenox again.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg143.imageshack.us%2Fimg143%2F7144%2Flenoxvalleymapiv1270905.th.png&hash=664adb9ee7c8ac9c44d548e6647c31094fa6d14c) (http://img143.imageshack.us/i/lenoxvalleymapiv1270905.png/)

This is at the intersection of Brinstar Road and Maridia Way, looking east from Maridia.  As you can see, this intersection is quite antiquated given the development in the area, and the first bulldozer is already in place.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F9741%2Fu561.jpg&hash=5e16f60484ff734ddb52478c4a453273f8e457d9)

Grading on the new right of way has begun along Brinstar.  (looking east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg301.imageshack.us%2Fimg301%2F8853%2Fu562.jpg&hash=28ab5aa6b15f7a3a08dc84d5b2728ba1610e32c5)

This is the bridge over Maridia Creek along Brinstar, facing south from the golf course.  It's horribly substandard and was built when Brinstar Road was still a rural collector route.  The bridge will be replaced with a modern 4-lane structure.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3544%2Fu563.jpg&hash=95b63c7a9a52e7759c1de5a9615045d57333ab9a)

This is north of the Maridia Way intersection (facing south), where part of the new right-of-way (ROW) has been paved, and traffic switched over to it.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg62.imageshack.us%2Fimg62%2F2964%2Fu564.jpg&hash=d7834ed596e6e936169dcc0dd2b841b2a103d42e)

A temporary alignment is being built on the far reaches of the ROW (facing east), so that Brinstar and Maridia can remain interconnected while the intersection is reconstructed.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg259.imageshack.us%2Fimg259%2F6938%2Fu565.jpg&hash=fd7094a7dd639fa94ee65a7b8903297888835889)

This is where the temporary alignment starts north of the intersection (facing east).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F5663%2Fu566.jpg&hash=d43d44b130077976521b7a7f23c28ebb2f309a55)

Work is commencing on the intersection (facing north).  A small section of the old Brinstar roadway has been retained to provide access to the golf course from Maridia, albeit converted to gravel until the new 4-lane roadway has been built and paved.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg301.imageshack.us%2Fimg301%2F5862%2Fu567.jpg&hash=86d6597ef96b2091ffd4060e3113940552e93ce9)

A temporary bridge has been built over Maridia Creek (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F3383%2Fu568.jpg&hash=92fa317814d78d4eb86857a685a87e992eeaa9f0)

The old bridge has been torn out to make way for the new bridge (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2Fu56%2Fu56-9.jpg&hash=33701167113d38dc5a0d34c0f2bab02acfd57d48)

Part of the new, widened Brinstar Road has been built north of the intersection (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg62.imageshack.us%2Fimg62%2F103%2Fu5610.jpg&hash=3f42452691f39e919a8073eafb93f21ace290ca6)

The new 4-lane roadway has been temporarily connected up to the construction bridge.  (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg197.imageshack.us%2Fimg197%2F7821%2Fu5611.jpg&hash=01f797906d552e0fde4e08ff96c47f406c658594)

The new bridge has opened, and the old one has come down. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg62.imageshack.us%2Fimg62%2F4354%2Fu5612.jpg&hash=eabf7ea236a627297ed26b395894f62b7e0939d4)

The improvements to the Brinstar/Maridia intersection have been completed (facing east).  Left turn lanes have been built along Brinstar, and since most of the traffic eastbound on Maridia turns right at this intersection, right turn lanes have been constructed on the west approach.  The new intersection has not yet been signalized.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg175.imageshack.us%2Fimg175%2F2640%2Fu5613.jpg&hash=763748c1bef23aba26c9a65106473d51249a0a7a)

This is the south end of the Brinstar Road widening project (facing south), at the improved intersection with Nerdly Lane.  Eventually, Brinstar will be widened down to Hidden Valley Road (Highway 231) and up a couple miles through the northern suburbs as well.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F420%2Fu5614.jpg&hash=914c869f9a099cc98e553af8e5da7dfd35f0ab38)

And a sneak preview of one of the city's next project.  In order to further improve connectivity in northeast Lenox, a new north-south route will be built with a second bridge across Maridia Creek.  It will connect Maple Drive on the south side up to Wheatstone Terrace.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg301.imageshack.us%2Fimg301%2F641%2Fu5615.jpg&hash=6cdc45b2c12c385f680608716d8a391076f7937f)

That does it for Update 56 . . . I'll be back at some point with another installment soon, though RL will likely flare up for me again here in a bit next month.  Thank you again for all your continued support!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: superhands on October 27, 2009, 06:53:15 PM
Another great update once again Alex :thumbsup:

those traffic lights are to die for.. :)

-dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: TmiguelT on October 27, 2009, 07:12:12 PM
Magnificent update you have there Alex  :thumbsup:

Your construction pictures are always awesome and the whole process looks very realistic. i kinda miss the Ka-boom Effect though  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on October 27, 2009, 07:44:03 PM
Very nice work! I'm likin' what you're building here.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: Battlecat on October 27, 2009, 08:59:17 PM
Great to see the Tarkusian Cities rolling once again!  As always, I'm impressed by the amount of time and preparation you put into illustrating the realistic expansion of a transportation network!  Based on the amount of traffic on that corridor, it looks like a highly necessary project!  Looking forward to seeing the next bridge on your list!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: j-dub on October 27, 2009, 09:22:15 PM
Quote from: Tarkus, well just a pic from Tarkus(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg175.imageshack.us%2Fimg175%2F2640%2Fu5613.jpg&hash=763748c1bef23aba26c9a65106473d51249a0a7a)

As soon as I saw it, I just had to redo Alex's one intersection and evenly distribute both sides so there were a total of four lanes on the road on one tile.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F1109%2Ftarkusianturnstyles.jpg&hash=0e7f665f6e38b46469e0ef6419038e8658a40334) (http://img7.imageshack.us/i/tarkusianturnstyles.jpg/)

http://img7.imageshack.us/i/tarkusianturnstyles.jpg/

Concept imagery ONLY
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: dragonshardz on October 27, 2009, 10:08:33 PM
Good to see another update, Alex. Can't wait for more, and finding out about that old "Mystery Project" wouldn't hurt either.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: thundercrack83 on October 27, 2009, 10:49:05 PM
Brinstar? Maridia? I smell a theme!

Brilliant work, as always, Alex! Can't wait to see what's next--perhaps Norfair Street?

Take care, my friend!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: metarvo on October 28, 2009, 05:24:54 AM
It's good to see all of TDot's construction equipment going again.  Of course, it looks like you might be teasing us with the TuLEP's again.  Nice update, Alex!  :)

Quote from: thundercrack83 on October 27, 2009, 10:49:05 PM
Brinstar? Maridia? I smell a theme!

Dustin, on top of all of that it seems like I remember seeing Ridley Road [linkie (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg276362;topicseen#msg276362)] earlier.  I get the feeling TDot's definitely doing something here...  ()stsfd().
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: ecoba on October 28, 2009, 03:32:39 PM
It's nice to see that the bulldozers (and you) are back, my friend.

I'm liking Lenox, it's construction-ey.

Well actually getting in to the depths of the update, Brinstar Road really did need some widening. That backup in the first picture is awful! I like the whole series of construction pictures, very intriguing, and realistic to how roads are built as well.

Pretty much every road out of my town has been 4-Lane Divided, and when I had to leave twon to go somewhere, I had to pass through construction all the way to the interstate, say, 30 miles north. Was I in your computer then, Alex? because it looks just like what you displayed for us.

I like the use of NAM content that you have and we don't yet. ;) . The TuLEPs showcased at the completed section are very innovative and I can't wait to use them.

I also like the new traffic signals.

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: JoeST on October 28, 2009, 03:49:35 PM
fantastic update once again :o :)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: EDGE4194 on October 29, 2009, 04:49:43 AM
glad to see another update! i love the step-by-step detail of the construction projects. my only question- road cul-de-sacs? how did i miss those and what mod are they from?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 56--10/27/2009--Brinstar Road Project, Phase I)
Post by: Ryan B. on October 30, 2009, 06:42:41 AM
Another great update, Alex - showing why Tarkusian Cities is the best roadgeek MD on SC4D today.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy, Phase I)
Post by: Tarkus on November 01, 2009, 01:16:48 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update already.  We'll be taking a look at the first part of construction on the north-south arterial discussed in the previous update, that will connect between Main Street and Maridia Way.  But first, I'll get to replies:

Dave (superhands):  Thanks for the kind words, and for the feedback on the traffic signals!  I was wondering when someone was going to notice them. :)

TmiguelT:  Glad you enjoyed the construction--thanks!  Ka-boom effect, eh?  I'm sure you'll be seeing it again here soon.  Haven't needed to demolish much these past couple projects, but I'm sure you'll see it in force again . . .

Daniel (Shadow Assassin):  Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!  And as mentioned last update, I've got you on the map now.  Introducing Shadow Mountain Boulevard, which starts on the north side of Arboris (which will be featured in an update relatively soon).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg97.imageshack.us%2Fimg97%2F7340%2Fu57northarborismap.th.png&hash=97896e6267d9c14cc92b1a268c4ca8f57ebf6916) (http://img97.imageshack.us/i/u57northarborismap.png/)

Battlecat:  Thanks for the compliments on the construction scenery--this project ended up being quite a bit of fun to do!  And the widened Brinstar Road has helped quite a bit, too--it's amazing what a couple extra lanes can do.  Hope you enjoy the bridge work coming up . . . there's plenty of it.

j-dub:  Nice photoshopping there!  Though the corridor doesn't quite need that much "turn-laneage" yet, and I'm not so sure on the intersection geometry there. ::)

dragonshardz:  Thanks, and if you're wondering about that "mystery project" in Wakeman, it was already constructed, actually.  See Update 39 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg186056#msg186056). :)

Dustin (thundercrack83):  Heh . . . you caught the Super Metroid references. :D  That was probably one of my favorite games back in the day . . . still definitely in my top-10 today (along with SC4, of course).  Thanks for the kind words--I'm thrilled to hear you enjoyed the update!

metarvo:  Thanks for the compliments--and good eye catching those TuLEPs there.  I figured it's been awhile since I've worked "under development" stuff in, so I'd sneak that in.  And TDOT . . . or technically, the cities of Lenox and Arboris . . . are definitely up to something.  Most of these cities are, if you look closely. ;)

Ethan (ecoba):  Thanks--it's good to be back!  The bulldozers were getting hungry.  And yes, it's amazing just how bad congestion was there on Brinstar . . . in traffic engineering terms, that would have been Level of Service F . . . maybe even G, which doesn't exist. :D  Glad you liked the TuLEPs and signals as well.  You'll definitely be seeing more of them . . .

Joe (JoeST): Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks for the kind words--I'm pleased to hear you enjoyed the construction detail!  And to answer your question, you haven't missed anything with the Road cul-de-sacs . . . they were done by my very talented colleague Dave (superhands) and haven't been released yet.

Ryan B.:  Thanks, and coming from one of the biggest purveyors of roadgeekery in the SC4 community, I really take that as a compliment!



Now onto the update.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg99.imageshack.us%2Fimg99%2F1407%2Flenoxpublicworks.png&hash=f2824e03e93ae05908b53e19a5b1a950b7d10243)
Seven Islands Parkway Project

This project will build a new north-south route between the Main Street/Railroad Street couplet (Highway 231) and Maridia Way, providing another route between suburban North Lenox and the city center, in addition to providing a "grand entrance" to the Sealey University campus.  The new road will be known as the Seven Islands Parkway, named after the "mini-archipelago" in the Lenox River, situated just to the west of the new roadway (and just north of downtown). 

The new roadway will consist of 4 travel lanes divided by a median.  It will be constructed along the current alignment of Oak Way, Maple Drive and Wheatstone Terrace, with a bridge crossing Maridia Creek.  The project faced some opposition among residents neighboring Wheatstone Terrace, however, the city's engineering team carefully worked with stakeholders to design an alignment to minimize impact to existing residential areas while still providing the throughput needed to improve traffic flow in this area of the city.  The alignment avoids all existing structures and the roadway will be designed for 30mph speeds.

The first segment shown as part of this update will show construction on south of Maridia Creek.

The following maps will illustrate the project area before:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg513.imageshack.us%2Fimg513%2F4901%2Flenoxiv127103020091.th.png&hash=02a754a4b0a930e327b7261839de86534fa28f5e) (http://img513.imageshack.us/i/lenoxiv127103020091.png/)

And what it will look like after completion:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg338.imageshack.us%2Fimg338%2F659%2Flenoxiv127103020092.th.png&hash=b60d45e981fcf388581a77dff0e83c5a82fb35af) (http://img338.imageshack.us/i/lenoxiv127103020092.png/)

Here's the existing intersection of Oak Way with the Main Street/Railroad Street couplet (Highway 231) (facing north):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg340.imageshack.us%2Fimg340%2F8568%2Fu571.jpg&hash=04bfd0c6c697f8e9de6f8b8c0ce79a67a6342593)

The rather indirect "jog" of Oak Way and Maple Drive, which all traffic to the university must travel through now (facing north):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg513.imageshack.us%2Fimg513%2F2296%2Fu572.jpg&hash=2fc141aec8ca5f51e9b2db89d42ea6511d0b9927)

Construction equipment has been set up at the site of the new bridge (facing north):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg145.imageshack.us%2Fimg145%2F5692%2Fu573.jpg&hash=072b252645c2d871a54ee90910bff171dec2a2b9)

Excavation has begun for the new, more direct alignment from Highway 231 up to the bridge site (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F2466%2Fu575.jpg&hash=7cb706627aa3f3018fffb085da1e88c59e0aafce)

A temporary alignment for Oak Way has been built while the new alignment is built (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg691.imageshack.us%2Fimg691%2F9355%2Fu576.jpg&hash=9f7cf55d243727c11061ff9d23314201b9154018)

Work on the new alignment (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg263.imageshack.us%2Fimg263%2F3577%2Fu577.jpg&hash=9a0d05c0d52b23fe967f9e446f799007ba312f24)

In order to get around some of the weird intersection geometry in the area, a 2-lane roundabout will be built, connecting the new Seven Islands Parkway to Maple Drive and the university, as well as the old section of Maple Drive/Oak Way. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F268%2Fu578.jpg&hash=c973217d567561be768f8036574517a5a049d2d4)

The new bridge has been more or less built, and the south segment is more or less open to traffic (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg691.imageshack.us%2Fimg691%2F8221%2Fu579.jpg&hash=3b892aa71a6ca7eb9237ac981716d3f2ebe4ad7e)

And that does it for this update--we'll take a look at the north half of the project next time.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: dragonshardz on November 01, 2009, 02:40:28 PM
It seems I forgot about Update 39. Other than that, it all looks great as usual and I can't wait to see what you do next.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: canyonjumper on November 01, 2009, 05:31:53 PM
Nice work with that new parkway &apls Just wondering where you got the partial bridge supports used in update 56.
Anyways, excellent showcasing of the TuLeP pieces. I can't wait to use them!  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: dedgren on November 01, 2009, 07:14:46 PM
Roadgeekery gone wild!  I can't think of anyone else who has as much fun with this as you do, Alex.  Almost as much fun, probably, as we have looking at it.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: joelyboy911 on November 01, 2009, 08:33:15 PM
Another awesome update Alex. Great roads. I also thought, I might say, that you have done some really nice stuff with the trees there, as well as the other mayor mode flora mods, I see that RRP grass scattered in the first picture.

Construction stuff's looking really nice as well!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: Battlecat on November 02, 2009, 09:16:26 AM
Cool update!  Nice choice using a roundabout in that spot!  I like the before and after maps, they're a nice touch. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 02, 2009, 10:11:27 AM
Awesome update  :thumbsup:. It was short but very self explanatory. i see that the round-a-bout is gonna help a lot with traffic and that road will probably be upgraded on the future  ;).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: Earth quake on November 02, 2009, 11:51:21 AM
Really nice Update. :thumbsup:
I really like the construction stuff.
Excellent work.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: j-dub on November 02, 2009, 05:45:19 PM
QuoteA temporary alignment for Oak Way has been built while the new alignment is built (facing north).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg691.imageshack.us%2Fimg691%2F9355%2Fu576.jpg&hash=9f7cf55d243727c11061ff9d23314201b9154018)

Uh, I think you forgot something very important about this temporary route, look closer. The cars can no longer go straight across the oneway to the other side, I drew an arrow in red on your picture where they now have to go a longer way around. (See Attached)
I understand that route was only momentary, but still.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: nerdly_dood on November 02, 2009, 06:19:18 PM
I'm noticing a few indications of future NAM developments:

- The OWRs have new lines in places - is that just the arrow overlay that's been modified...?

- The roads end in cul-de-sacs - I recall seeing developments of a road cul-de-sac project but it seems to have died several months ago.

Also I can't tell where exactly jdub is indicating that vehicles can't cross over...

Great update, though... (What else would I expect? :P )
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on November 02, 2009, 09:22:36 PM
Another Great update , my eyes are bleeding i'm going blind so much NAM Candy :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: ecoba on November 03, 2009, 08:13:03 AM
Very nice updat, Alex.

An interesting project you've got here.

I'll do a long reply next time.

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: JBSimio on November 03, 2009, 02:32:47 PM
Nice update Alex!   :thumbsup:

The new parkway looks like a very sensible route according to the "after" map.  It should make for a very nice main entrance to the university.  I initially thought the same thing as J-dub when looking at the temporary alignment, but I figure that road construction always brings a few extra challenges and headaches for the drivers... so why would this be any different?  ;)

Looking forward to the finished project...
JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: superhands on November 03, 2009, 07:15:19 PM
nice work on the map alex. I havn't checked it for a while too.
img that the Seven Islands pkwy will reduce that morning commute time and make things a lot safer :P  especially for the greenies who travel on mopeds to uni.

-dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: bakerton on November 03, 2009, 08:29:40 PM
Alex, What a wonderful update you have for us. I just love getting inspired by your updates and construction. Keep it coming and make sure the traffic is flowing. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 57--11/1/2009--Seven Islands Pkwy--Phase I)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 05, 2009, 12:58:58 PM
Another marvelous update  &apls.

First of all, i would like to say that Jbud has a good point. he shows traffic won't be able to cross the other part of the bridge, because the bridge is too close and the other one is too far.

Secondly, I just realized that it says phase 1, so i would probably expect a change  ;).

Finally, I'm still waiting for that Kaboom Effect to make its come back  :thumbsup: i know you will bring some of us here joy, when we see those magic words on those on impressive pictures so.....

Ka-boom... Post has concluded  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: Tarkus on November 14, 2009, 02:03:17 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, some unfortunate news here, as you can probably guess by the title.  My hard drive decided to up and quit today.  I'm currently not even able to get into Windows without a Blue Screen of Death.  At least some of the files on my HD seem to be okay, but I don't fully know the extent of the damage, other than that the Boot Sector is completely zorked.

Most of my SC4 custom content was passed on to my fellow NAMites quite recently, so I haven't really lost much there.  However, I'm not really sure how much I'll be able to recover from Tarkusian Cities.  I have some of the content backed up, but the backup is quite old, unfortunately.

That all being said, every cloud has a silver lining (as the saying goes), and I'm planning on taking advantage of this misfortune to begin anew here.  I've learned a lot during my 2 1/2 years of doing Tarkusian Cities, and I think I can build things bigger and better now from a fresh start.  My Plugins had also gotten to be a bit of a mess, so this will also be an opportunity to fine tune them.

I still have to figure out what I will be doing computer-wise in the near future, so it may be a little while before I can get things going here again.

To everyone who has commented and supported me here in this endeavor--I can't thank you all enough!  Hopefully, I'll be back with something completely fresh soon.

Best,
Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: metarvo on November 14, 2009, 02:32:40 PM
Yikes!  :o :o  Oh, no, that's awful, Alex.  It's bad that this would happen when you have such a great MD going.  I hope for the best in this situation.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 15, 2009, 08:27:12 AM
alex- sorry to hear about the HD, but you do have the right attitude- a fresh start is always good. Hope to see more from you here soon. Good Luck with the recovery!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: j-dub on November 15, 2009, 02:44:09 PM
OMG sorry to hear about this. I know when my computer pulled this crap on me, I had some interesting moments at the zoo last summer, saved them to my hard drive, but my stupid computer lost the files when it acted up.

The important thing is we as a community did NOT loose new, unfinished, still in development Tarkus brand road network projects, I guess we got that to be thankful for. So in case anyone that is really hopeful for Alex's new transit network projects, and is thinking, "what about RHW, or the NWM, or TuLEP's!?" You do not have to worry about that, again what Alex said, it has been backed up. Still, inconvenience with computer related tech seems like it always just has to happen to the best of us, no matter who you are, then always happens again to someone else.  :thumbsdown:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: emgmod on November 15, 2009, 10:07:28 PM
You can always recover from a massive computer failure. Just don't give up and camp out in the wilderness for the rest of your life.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: Battlecat on November 16, 2009, 09:05:23 AM
Hard drive failures are always terrible.  My wife had a similar crash on her computer recently.  We managed to recover everything though, there are a number of companies that specialize in recovering data from crashed hard drives.  It only cost us about 60$ but prices seem to vary quite significantly.  At the very least it might save you from having to re-download your entire plugins folder! 

Anyhow, good luck with your decision, I'm looking forward to seeing what you decide to do next! 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 16, 2009, 09:10:56 AM
sorry to hear that alex  :( ....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (11/14/2009--Hard Drive Failure)
Post by: Ryan B. on November 17, 2009, 01:02:03 PM
Alex, your hard drive has gone and pulled a Burgess!   :'(

I'm so sorry to hear that, but I know that Tarkusian Cities is like a phoenix - rising from the ashes!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Tarkus on November 22, 2009, 03:46:36 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back in business on this end now.  I have a new hard drive in my laptop (with 300GB more space), a fresh plugins folder of 2.5GB, and the start of a new region, which I'll be showing a glimpse of this update.  I'm also on Vista now, as that's what was on my original backups . . . while I was dreading it, I spent a couple hours tweaking it, disabling some of its "nanny state" features and the extra HP junk once I got everything back up and running, and have managed to make it workable.

Fortunately, I seem to be able to access pretty much the entire contents of my old hard drive via a SATA-to-USB cable.  It appears that just the Boot Sector of the drive was corrupted, so I was able to recover all of the NAM work that hadn't been passed on, and if I ever decide to return to my old regions, that's still an option.  The plugins were best to start over with, as they were a mess, and I plan to get into custom lotting a bit more, so it'll be easier to keep track of which dependency packages I use and perhaps even make it possible for me to release some stuff on that end.  A few things I learned in the hard drive process:

1) Don't buy Seagate hard drives.  My laptop came with one and it got zorked after only 16 months.
2) The best tool for getting laptop hard drives out of tight spaces: a dinner knife.  Yes, really.  It provided enough leverage for me to gently spring the old drive out.

Well, enough hard drive talk . . . I'll get to some replies before showing off the new city.

Patrick (dragonshardz): Thanks, and hope you enjoy what's in store next.

canyonjumper: Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and I'm happy to hear you like the TuLEPs!  And to answer your question, the incomplete bridge pieces are part of the SFBT Construction Site Set by deejay (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=14360), which is available over on the STEX.  It's basically the essential download for making construction sites, and I've used it extensively throughout Tarkusian Cities.

David (dedgren):  Thanks, and I owe you a lot of credit--3RR's practically a roadgeek paradise as well with all your maps, and was one of the biggest influences on what I do here!

Joel (joelyboy911): Thanks for the kind words, and the compliments on the tree/flora usage--I've been addicted to cycledogg/c.p's trees since I discovered them, and the RRP flora was a similar revelation.  It's amazing how much having a little flora can add to an SC4 pic.  Glad you enjoyed the construction as well--there will most definitely be more where that came from. ;)

Battlecat:  Thanks--I kind of started playing around with the roundabouts quite a bit with that city.  They really come in handy when roads start intersecting at odd angles.  Curiously, that was actually the first real serious usage of the Avenue Roundabouts in my cities--I probably had them on the brain as they've been building quite a few dual-lane ones here in Oregon over the past year or two.  I had tested them a fair amount when they were in development, though--memo (who's unfortunately been MIA for awhile now) was working on them right at the time I joined the NAM Team in 2007.

TmiguelT: Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!  And I did actually have a couple of updates almost prepared on the road upgrades around that area before my hard drive crash.  Since I fortunately still have access to them, I may dig them out down the road.

Earth quake: Thanks for the kind words on the construction!  There will definitely be more of that to come, too!

j-dub: Good eye there . . . I actually caught that as well when I built it, but I didn't really have much of a choice there due to how the bridges on the one-way couplet were aligned.  It would have caused too much disruption to convert a few tiles of the OWR to a two-way road (plus the OWR is under TDOT jurisdiction), and the detour (across the bridge to turn around at Orson Road) wouldn't cause too much inconvenience, so the City of Lenox wasn't too concerned.

nerdly_dood: Thanks, glad you enjoyed it, and you did indeed see correctly.  The OWR thing is basically just a new arrow overlay, thanks to Dave (superhands)--ditto with the Road Cul-De-Sacs.

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Thanks--and I'd make sure to see a doctor before the next couple updates, and maybe some sunglasses to prevent eye damage. ::)

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks for the kind words--hope you enjoy what's in store next.

Jon (JBSimio): Thanks, I'm happy to hear you enjoyed the update, and that you found the new roadway alignment to be sensible.  And yes, the construction always leads to a few inconveniences . . . but they're usually worth it in the long run once the projects are done.

Dave (superhands): Thanks for the compliments on the map, and the project seems to have done its job so far.  Of course, as a moped/scooter rider myself, I'm not sure how comfortable I'd be in a dual-lane roundabout. :D  There's one a couple miles from me (the first true one in the state of Oregon, actually) that I haven't yet braved . . . though it had a lot higher speeds than the Seven Islands one, so I think the scooter-types will be pleased. :)  And I'd certainly feel safer on Seven Islands than trying to go up Brinstar and Maridia.

Jon (bakerton): Thanks, I'm always ecstatic to hear when I've inspired someone.  There will definitely be more to come, too. :)

TmiguelT: Thanks, and yes, things did get straightened out quite a bit as part of the second phase.  And keep an eye out . . . I'm sure there will be some big time bulldozing before long. ;)

metarvo: Thanks for the support, and fortunately, I've got things mostly straightened out here.  It can only get better from here. :)

Eric (EDGE4194): Thanks for the kind words, and I'm actually in some ways glad to have an excuse to straighten somethings out with plugins and such.  And thanks for the wishes for a good recovery--it's gone great thus far. :thumbsup:

j-dub: Thanks for the support--sorry to hear you've had similar problems, and I know just what you're going through.  Fortunately, all is not lost. :)

emgmod: Thanks, and for the most part, I've been fortunate this go-around.  And don't worry, I haven't left for the wilderness. :D  I wouldn't mind moving some place a bit more desert-y right now, though, as damp and dreary as Western Oregon gets this time of year. :D

Battlecat: Thanks for the support and the advice--and I'm sorry to hear of your wife's recent computer issues.  This sort of thing is never fun.  Fortunately, I had a SATA and IDE-to-USB cable sitting up at my parents' house, which arrived down here via mail on Wednesday, so I've been able to get access to pretty much the entire drive.  I decided to still go ahead and re-download, as things were a bit of a mess, and it was pretty much a necessity if I ever wanted to get into the Lotting business, which I've been toying with for awhile and am even more keen to try now that wounagaine's long-awaited "X-Tool" has finally been released.

And I hope you enjoy everything in store next!

TmiguelT: Thanks for the sympathy--fortunately, everything seems to have worked out for the best. :)

Ryan B.: Yeah, I guess it did.  Fortunately, only the boot sector's fried.  Thanks for the kind words and support, and hopefully, my latest efforts here will be successful--maybe I should build on a Phoenix map or call my next city Phoenix. :D




Well, now it's time to reveal the start of my latest efforts after the crash.  I've started a new region, and have partially built up two large tiles on it.  I decided to try something a little new . . . my fellow NHPer Troy (blade2k5) has released a bunch of RL Oregon maps on the STEX recently, which I've picked up.  I've never tried building on RL terrain that I'm familiar with, and thought it posed a lot of interesting possibilities, so I've started building on the Salem, OR map.  My goal with it has been to do something rather different from the RL Salem rather than a strict recreation (though I'd be curious to try something like that at some point), but because of my familiarity with the area, I couldn't help but take a few cues here and there from it (and other Oregon cities) with the layout.  My "downtown" in "Alternate Universe Salem" (which I haven't given an actual name other than that :D) is located in just about the same spot.

Now, for a look at what's in place thus far.

First off, a map of the current progress on the downtown tile:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F3506%2Fsamapregion11222009.th.png&hash=9aed6a430c845647b56bbeb4ffa50684a75f8bbe) (http://img4.imageshack.us/i/samapregion11222009.png/)

A look at downtown, near 5th Avenue NE and Progress Street (facing north).  5th Avenue is the east-west "main drag" through downtown.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F4762%2Fu581.jpg&hash=2bbd072bb4da24ba3718826ad15085f4818a54e5)

Near the intersection of 5th and Commerce Street (Highway 215) (facing west).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F8687%2Fu582.jpg&hash=fec9fee236edfd23ed2a05f24bcd7539778daab6)

This is in the large industrial area off to the east, which isn't on the map. (facing south)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F2293%2Fu584.jpg&hash=da773ae02c504fa59344d4ee4716be867681acfc)

This is on the edge of the industrial area . . . probably the most rail you've ever seen in a Tarkusian City. (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F310%2Fu585.jpg&hash=0d820db7962fbc5e28c14d02591fe8733c95c6b4)

This is where Highway 215 (the Division/Commerce couplet) and Highway 36 meet up. (facing west)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg44.imageshack.us%2Fimg44%2F631%2Fu586.jpg&hash=c6032217ae7f23292dab011693aad148158aca26)

This is a look at some residential areas.  This is near 11th and Ashcroft. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F4536%2Fu587.jpg&hash=e0e0da1d91626f846e6f5be900905a0953c55413)

And construction has already begun.  Here's the intersection of 5th and Ashcroft.  Both roads will be undergoing widening quite soon. (facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F9281%2Fu583.jpg&hash=4b71340cf5e4b17dda0b719586a1921f12ad5298)

And that does it for this update--thanks for all your kind wishes during my hard drive issues, and I hope you enjoyed this update.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Blue Lightning on November 22, 2009, 04:34:17 PM
Good to hear you're back in business!

Good luck with building on the new region, probably is going to be as good as or even better than the "old" one :P
That grimy industrial area looks awesome, and just 4 rails? Pfft, you need to go 6 rails (kidding of course).

Vince
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: emgmod on November 22, 2009, 05:35:14 PM
Look at all those rails! I never seen so many in one place!  :P
To be honest, I never saw anything wider than 4 tracks in my life.

We also all know that this will be better than the old one because the new one has more awesome NAM stuff (Hopefully).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Battlecat on November 22, 2009, 06:28:15 PM
Nice start, glad to hear you managed to recover everything of importance!  Looks to me like there's going to have to be some imaginative ideas implemented if this city gets much bigger.  Looks like the initial city design doesn't leave a lot of room for road widening!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: canyonjumper on November 22, 2009, 09:36:28 PM
Nice to hear that your hard drive is OK. Mine did that recently but I wasn't so lucky and had to go buy a SATA cable. I was on Vista but took the opportunity to switch to Windows 7, which is much better. Thanks for answering my question.  That set really makes my city just that much more realistic. Hope to see a lot of construction and new NAM stuff :D!

                                 -Jordan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: JoeST on November 23, 2009, 03:32:14 AM
Oh god, sorry to hear about the 'loss'

But I'm glad you are up and running again, cant wait to see more awesome creations :)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 23, 2009, 01:19:25 PM
Awesome to see you back in business   :thumbsup:

and i'll be on the look out to see that Big bang effect  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Schulmanator on November 23, 2009, 01:54:54 PM
I am glad that you are back in action. I look forward to your new and improved updates for us.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Battlecat on November 23, 2009, 02:03:33 PM
Gotta stop in once more!  Congratulations on making it to the Hall of Fame!   &apls &apls &apls

Always looking forward to what else you've got on the way here in the Tarkusian Cities!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: ecoba on November 23, 2009, 03:52:19 PM
Good to see you back, my friend.

A different style of cities, certainly from what I've seen previously here at Tarkusian Cities! But, I'm sure it will be a good change, as you seem to master all types of environments, Alex. I hope to see more of this city soon, and I see a lot of new NAM content in these pictures as well, new even to T.C.

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: BigSlark on November 24, 2009, 04:17:56 PM
Alex,

I'm glad to see you recovered from this hard drive disaster, boot sector death is far more common than any of us would like to admit, I'm backing up my C: drive as I type...

I'm looking forward to see where you take this new region and I'm excited to see a railroad photo, let me know if you need some ideas on what do with them!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Peace,
Kevin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: joelyboy911 on November 24, 2009, 04:45:34 PM
I look forward to the next batch of Tarkusian cities, in a big way. Those railways look nice. Your city looks very diverse, and the construction is very fascinating as usual. I really need to download all those construction props...

Anyway, hope you have better luck with this hard drive!

Err, it's Thanksgiving?  :D I hope you enjoy it then.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Bobbi on November 24, 2009, 08:25:46 PM
Good update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: calibanX on November 24, 2009, 10:32:08 PM
Sorry to hear about your computer woes Alex. A fresh start can sometimes make for inspired work though. I'm looking forward to seeing how the new Tarkusian Cities develop.

By the way, I love that pic of Industrial dirtiness  :thumbsup:

Geoff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Ennedi on November 26, 2009, 10:57:53 AM
Congratulations Alex!  :thumbsup:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo134%2Fthundercrack83%2FMD%2520Hall%2520of%2520Fame%2FTarkus-Plaque.jpg&hash=1e6817b7e6a522c3749a898eeceae0b906ecd3a6)

The Mayor's Diaries Hall of Fame Committee and the Staff

PS. Tarkusian Cities really became more than a Classic during these years... :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Tomas Neto on November 26, 2009, 11:06:16 AM
Congratulations Alex!  &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: JoeST on November 26, 2009, 02:28:30 PM
CONGRATULATIONS!! A worthier MD you would struggle to find :)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: darraghf on November 26, 2009, 02:32:05 PM
Congrats Alex. Your award is well deserved
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: canyonjumper on November 26, 2009, 04:25:03 PM
Congratulations  &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 26, 2009, 05:18:28 PM
Congratulations Alex !! You really deserve it  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: nerdly_dood on November 26, 2009, 05:31:04 PM
Inducted on December 1?? It's only November 26... ???

Still, this MD was certainly worthy of such an award, even if the date wasn't quite right.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Ryan B. on November 26, 2009, 07:16:13 PM
Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat, I see!

Congratulations on being the first roadgeek MD in the HOF!   &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Earth quake on November 26, 2009, 10:47:29 PM
Congralutation Tarkus.  &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: Blue Lightning on November 26, 2009, 11:05:02 PM
Congrats on the well deserved award Alex!  &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: metarvo on November 27, 2009, 05:14:37 AM
Congratulations on making it into the HoF, Alex!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 27, 2009, 07:25:55 AM
congrats alex!  you certainly deserve it &dance
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: JBSimio on November 27, 2009, 02:07:12 PM
Quote from: nerdly_dood on November 26, 2009, 05:31:04 PM
Inducted on December 1?? It's only November 26... ???

It hasn't been moved to the HOF section yet, has it?   ::)


Alex, first of all... Congratulations of the Hall of Fame!   &apls &apls &apls

Now to the update which I thought I had commented on already, but apparently hadn't...  ::)

Glad to see you've got things up and running again.  It looks like we're in for a lot more of the same great styles with some new twists.  I'm already interested to see where all those rails will lead...

See you soon,
JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: tooheys on November 28, 2009, 12:16:01 AM
Congrats Alex. Well done on your induction to the HOF  :thumbsup:

I'm sure an inspiration to all your fellow road geeks out there. God help us all  :D

Seriously though, a well deserved reward  :thumbsup:

Dave
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: ecoba on November 28, 2009, 03:20:51 PM
Congrats, Alex. The induction is certainly well deserved.  :thumbsup:

Ethan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Tarkus on November 29, 2009, 11:34:37 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . the last before it gets moved into the Hall of Fame!  I'm still in absolute and utter shock and really feel quite honored that it made it in, as there were a number of very strong MDs up this round, which, imo, were all very deserving.  I want to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who voted for Tarkusian Cities in the election--and everyone who voted, period. :thumbsup:

Also, for all my fellow Americans here, I hope you all had an excellent Thanksgiving!  I ended up visiting my folks for a few days, and just got back from there tonight--overall, it was a pretty enjoyable time.

Now onto replies:

Vince (Blue Lightning):  Thanks for wishing me luck on the new region!  I'm really quite pleased with how it's coming out thus far.  I'm glad you like the industrial area--I haven't shown much industrial stuff previously, so I thought it'd be interesting to try.  And we'll see if the rails need widening. :D

emgmod: Hehe . . . I almost thought about going for even more there. :D  Thanks for the kind words, and I can guarantee you there will be some interesting NAM stuff coming down the line here.

Battlecat:  Thanks for the kind words on the new region, and for the support on the hard drive woes!  Fortunately, traffic's not gotten too bad in the new city, but it's gotten to the point of being the largest city I've ever built, so I definitely think I'll have to get "creative" here.  I'm always up for a new challenge, though. :)

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks for the support on the computer issues!  I have to say, that SATA cable has more than paid for itself.  I was dreading Vista but have managed to bend it into submission, and it's actually served me fairly well.  And you're welcome for the help on the construction set--I can guarantee you'll be seeing a lot more of it here, along with some new NAM stuff before too long.

JoeST: Thanks for the kind words--it's always tough whenever something breaks down computer-wise, even if you're prepared for it.  And I hope you find this latest update to your liking!

TmiguelT: Thanks--I'm thrilled to be back in business as well, and I have a feeling you'll be seeing "the effect" soon. ;)

Bruce (Schulmanator): Thanks for the well wishes, and hope this update is to your liking!

Battlecat: Thanks for the congratulations--I'm still in shock, and I think a congratulations are in order for you as well, with the showing Adara had in the election. :)

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks, it's good to be back!  I'm glad you like the different style--I'm trying to mix things up a little bit, based at least to some extent on the feedback I received on Arboris.  And yes, there are a few small new features there--there will be more where that came from before long. :)

Kevin (BigSlark): Thanks--it always gets a bit nerve-wracking whenever something like that happens.  Fortunately, it was only the second hard drive crash I've ever had.  The other one wasn't quite as major or urgent as this one, though.  I was really quite fortunate with this one, but it's served as a rather important reminder for me as well.  I'm glad to hear you're backing up! 

And thanks for the compliments on the new region--I wanted to try recreating a typical industrial rail setup there, and I'd definitely be interested in some more feedback/suggestions there, as it's the first time I've tried this.  (I have to say, all those switches David (dedgren) and Dave (superhands) have done for the RAM have really come in handy!)  Hope you had an excellent Thanksgiving as well!

Joel (joelyboy911): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you're looking forward to the new Tarkusian Cities!  I hope they satisfy. :)  I'm pleased to hear I managed to pull off a diversity of environments--I'm trying to go for a little bit more complete picture with this new region.  And the new hard drive has been working out pretty well thus far.  It's a Western Digital, which I've had a much better luck with, and it's also 300GB larger than my previous drive (500GB vs. 200GB).  And thanks for the Thanksgiving wishes--I did have a good one! :)

Bobbi: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Geoff (calibanX): Thanks for the condolences on the computer issues--fortunately, I think everything's worked out for the best, and the new region's been a blast to build thus far.  And I'm glad you liked the industrial pic--it was a lot of fun making that one.  :thumbsup:

Adam (Ennedi): I'm just absolutely still in shock that I've made the HoF--I want to offer my most sincere thanks to you and all the other members of the HoF committee for all your hard work on putting together this election/induction, and I still just can't believe it. :)

Tomas Neto: Thanks for the congratulations--I'm thrilled to be a part of it!

JoeST: Thanks for the kind words, my friend. :)

darraghf: Thanks--I'm still in disbelief! :)

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks! :thumbsup:

TmiguelT: Thank you so much for the kind words!

nerdly_dood: Well, the election's over, but the actual induction takes place on December 1st.  And thanks for the kind words!

Ryan B.: Thanks for the kind words, my roadgeek friend!  I'm just absolutely stoked. :)

Vivien (Earth quake): Thanks for the congratulations! :)

Vince (Blue Lightning): Thanks for the all-too-kind words, my friend!

metarvo: Thanks, I'm just thrilled!

Eric (EDGE4194): Thanks, it's still taking some time to sink in, though.  I just can't believe it. :D

Jon (JBSimio): Thanks for the congratulations, and I think a huge congratulations are in order to you as well.  I'm thrilled to have been inducted at the same time as your fine MD, which definitely deserves the HoF status!  And thanks for the kind words on the new region!  (Which has been aided a great deal by many of your creations, I might add.)  And I can guarantee you'll be seeing what's going on with the rails here soon. :)

Dave (tooheys): Thanks for the kind words, and I hope to live up to the "roadgeek" label . . . though don't worry--I'll try not to overgeek everyone here.  Even I have my limits.:D  And thanks to you as well for all your hard work as part of the HoF committee! :thumbsup:

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks--I'm absolutely thrilled! :)


And now onto the update. :thumbsup:




We'll be back in the same region/city I introduced in Update 58, which now sports a proper name: Chemeketa (pronounced cha-mech-it-ta).

Chemeketa was actually the original name of Salem, Oregon when it was initially founded in the early 1840s, taken from the Calapooya word meaning "meeting place".  In RL, the name was retained for with Chemeketa Street in downtown Salem, as well as Chemeketa Community College in north Salem.

Just to show a brief overview of how the RL Salem is laid out:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F1024%2Fsalemgooglemaps.jpg&hash=0e606d898362adec37880b963f84d57ae0a4d07b)

And for a comparison, the map of Chemeketa from the previous update again:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F3506%2Fsamapregion11222009.th.png&hash=9aed6a430c845647b56bbeb4ffa50684a75f8bbe) (http://img4.imageshack.us/i/samapregion11222009.png/)

(For a little more context, check here (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Salem,+OR&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Salem,+Marion,+Oregon&gl=us&ei=oEATS5naFIfcsgO4qrTmAQ&ved=0CAwQ8gEwAA&ll=44.940805,-123.017006&spn=0.027582,0.077162&z=14).)

Downtown Chemeketa is actually located in about the same spot as Downtown Salem, near a bend in the Willamette River, albeit it has a few notable changes.  Namely, there's a freeway running through it.  On either side of Downtown Salem, OR-22 has a limited access expressway section, but these two segments are disrupted by a somewhat circuitous set of surface streets.  Highway 36 is pretty much the Chemeketa-equivalent of OR-22, but runs uninterrupted as an elevated freeway through town.  The western portion also runs on the south side of the river rather than the north.

I'll have much more to say on the similarities/differences between Chemeketa and Salem in future updates, as well as the "alternate universe Oregon" in which Chemeketa resides.

Now that I've gone off on a historical tangent, I'll move onto another matter . . . a construction project, which you saw a hint of last update.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
[align=center]Ashcroft Street NE and 5th Avenue NE Widening[/align]

This project will widen Ashcroft Street NE and 5th Avenue NE, just east of downtown Chemeketa.  Ashcroft is a major north-south arterial that functions as a "boundary" of sorts for the downtown area, while 5th Avenue is a major east-west arterial connecting the industrial areas east of Chemeketa to downtown. 

The new roadways will be built to 4 travel lanes, 2 in each direction.  Ashcroft will be widened between 3rd Avenue NE and 16th Avenue NE, while 5th Avenue will be widened between Ashcroft to just east of McCabe Street NE. 

Here is the intersection of 5th and Ashcroft as construction begins. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F3955%2Fu591.jpg&hash=44fa2c36bd92f75dddc77abf6fdc73f5d3a023d1)


Parts of the new widened roadway being built along Ashcroft . . . as you can see, it's a bit of a mess. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F5726%2Fu592.jpg&hash=099b8404a526e7c55cd91a2e8a79b00fcc090f52)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F6604%2Fu593q.jpg&hash=b9047661a29c745c48041b7a4f0beccc5bc4de8d)


A different angle--facing west.  This is near 13th and Ashcroft.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F9031%2Fu594.jpg&hash=da3ddf94753b4c4543add6c414751cac6cc28d7d)


This is near the intersection of 16th and Ashcroft (facing north).  As you can see, Circuit City is in the way.  Fortunately, Circuit City also happens to be out of business, so the city will be able to condemn the land to make way for the widened roadway without any problems.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F1744%2Fu596.jpg&hash=fc286abc3094a7cad57357c759af05886d5d986f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F286%2Fu5910.jpg&hash=c9a0a93b2956ea0637c39700d375233ee3e73d5c)


Part of the widening has been completed.  (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F8551%2Fu597.jpg&hash=7a60eeed2242db1deb6489f49fa0da21f16b571a)


A different angle. (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F7615%2Fu598.jpg&hash=ae0af8b300f0e0a35d3174fda5cd906e0d04c103)


Here's at 5th and Ashcroft again. (facing north)  The Ashcroft widening has been complete, and work has begun on widening 5th.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F3714%2Fu599.jpg&hash=052251a4777ed79c6969f04b4f0ee473f271ca97)


Farther north on Ashcroft, taking a look at the improved roadway (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F286%2Fu5910.jpg&hash=46f786c64a21511aec96d8e01839d865b9e8de04)


Here's the intersection of 16th and Ashcroft after the widening (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg9.imageshack.us%2Fimg9%2F4327%2Fu5911.jpg&hash=80f3931b59a5ae30db7489c6e6f1eddaa4a8ea4b)


The improved roadway on Ashcroft near 12th and 13th (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F5562%2Fu5912.jpg&hash=24c93e0371806ea70739ed9f56b4c29777e3033a)


Another angle (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F6171%2Fu5913.jpg&hash=4dfe9aa57528b1e5f2936e1eb14797deafe4a5e1)


Here's how work is progressing on the 5th Avenue widening (facing north).  This is between Ashcroft and McCabe.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F9083%2Fu5914.jpg&hash=072fc43b21cf89d0bd2e7a24fad06de5bf05fbbc)


Improvements are underway at 5th and McCabe (facing north).  McCabe is next on the list for widening, to provide better access between Highway 36 and this part of town.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg42.imageshack.us%2Fimg42%2F2807%2Fu5915.jpg&hash=17c008ce02917d145122284e3a7f9104114d167a)


Widening has been completed on 5th (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F363%2Fu5916.jpg&hash=e336f4ff635ba7155f38177ad197852412e500b1)


And that does it for this update--hope you enjoyed this one!  I'll see you all in the Hall of Fame come Tuesday, and Update 60 should be forthcoming relatively soon.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: adroman on November 30, 2009, 12:18:11 AM
Fantastic work, Tarkus!

They way you show the roads in development is fantastic. You road-geekery is second to none  ;)

I'll try to drop in more often... I'm afraid you've got me hooked!

Havva good one,
Adrian.

EDIT: Welcome to page 50!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Battlecat on November 30, 2009, 08:48:51 AM
Excellent update, nice job widening that road to an avenue.  I expect some of those intersections will need upgrading to traffic lights in the future. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Blue Lightning on November 30, 2009, 10:07:47 AM
Very nice update as always, Alex! Sure hope that avenue can keep up with growth. ;) Then again, you could probably think up almost anything to fix any snarls that may occur anyways so... :P

Vince
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Earth quake on November 30, 2009, 10:14:36 AM
Just an excellent update Tarkus. &apls
Impressive work with the road to the avenue.
Bedside, the industrial aera is splendid.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: ecoba on November 30, 2009, 02:39:16 PM
Good update, Alex.

It's good to see the bulldozers out to play again.

Ethan

PS: Can't wait to open TC from the Hall of Fame, congrats again  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: scott1964 on November 30, 2009, 03:21:33 PM
Good job on your continued development.  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: canyonjumper on November 30, 2009, 03:45:34 PM
Nice to see you back Alex! Excellent update. Interesting historical tidbit. I'll have to keep that in mind when reconstructing cities :D And congratulations again on making HoF!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: JBSimio on November 30, 2009, 04:52:22 PM
Great update as always, Alex!   &apls

You seem to get a lot of the restaurants and box stores that I never seem to see.  I know I have them in my plugins, but looking at your update has made me wonder.  Have they all grown that well for you or do you use the plop versions?  Either way, it's always nice to stop in and see the latest from the DOT... ;)

JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: threestooges on November 30, 2009, 05:30:18 PM
I'm sorry I haven't stopped by sooner to say this, but congratulations on making it into the Hall of Fame Alex. Though I don't post much it's always interesting to see how you're able to renovate and redesign your cities. I shudder to think what would happen if I tried to widen a road in Greenacre, but you seem to do it here with ease, and the areas look better for it. Looking forward to the continuation of the road widening.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: TmiguelT on November 30, 2009, 06:05:46 PM
This was one the best updates since the last Kaboom effect  :P.

Awesome Work Alex  :thumbsup:

Down with Circuit City... next in line Blockbuster  :D...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: bakerton on December 01, 2009, 06:41:37 AM
nice update Alex. I guess that TDOT does the work for free as they seem to not run out of money for all the projects they are doing and have done. Keep us inspired and entertained. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Bobbi on December 01, 2009, 07:11:33 AM
Good update and congratulations on HoF :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: rooker1 on December 01, 2009, 07:24:30 AM
Congratualtions Tarkus on your move to MD HoF.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo134%2Fthundercrack83%2FMD%2520Hall%2520of%2520Fame%2FTarkus-Plaque.jpg&hash=1e6817b7e6a522c3749a898eeceae0b906ecd3a6)

SC4D Staff!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: calibanX on December 01, 2009, 10:31:24 PM
Excellent as always Alex. It's always road construction season in Tarkusian Cities!

Take care.

Geoff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Ennedi on December 01, 2009, 10:43:49 PM
Hello Alex,

I always look at your cities, maps and roadworks with a great pleasure, the last update is interesting and inspiring as always. Great work!  :thumbsup:

Welcome in the MD Hall of Fame - your new home. Now you are not forced to make updates frequently and you don't need to afraid of moving your MD to the Inactive section. You can also start a new MD if you want. But Tarkusian Cities became an important part of our site and I really hope we will see much more of them!

Here is a link to the Tarkusian Cities Introduction (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=4856.msg292050#msg292050), it includes an interview and photos you have choosen to introduce newcomers to your MD.

I see you received congratulations from the Staff twice  :D, please take it as a good prediction for the Tarkusian Cities development!  :thumbsup:

Adam
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on December 02, 2009, 12:29:01 AM
Congrats, buddy!

It's always nice to pay a visit to Tarkusian Cities, as well as to see what's coming along in the region...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 58--11/22/2009--Welcome back, my friends . . .)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on December 02, 2009, 02:39:14 AM
Quote from: Tarkus on November 22, 2009, 03:46:36 PM

This is on the edge of the industrial area . . . probably the most rail you've ever seen in a Tarkusian City. (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F310%2Fu585.jpg&hash=0d820db7962fbc5e28c14d02591fe8733c95c6b4)

Hi Alex, as ever great job!!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I've a question ()what() : where do u find this facelift for elevated road? :o :o
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: art128 on December 02, 2009, 09:59:43 AM
Congrats, Alex ! A well deserved title my friend !
Excellent update as ever, I'm always kind of your city building style.  :thumbsup:

Quote from: vinlabsc3kI've a question  ()what() : where do u find this facelift for elevated road?  :o :o

First, to get elevated road you need the NAM, but at this point I think you already know that..  ;)
This facelift is maybe one of the NAM team on-going project, that is at the moment being tested and also, finishing.. This sort of things takes quite a long time to do, so we have to wait, until someday, like the NAM team love to say "It will be released when It will be ready.."
I hope this answer your question..

-Arthur. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Jmouse on December 03, 2009, 09:17:00 PM
First of all, congratulations on your induction into the HoF, Alex.

It's good to see Tarkusian Cities up and running again. I've always enjoyed watching the changes your ever-busy DOT makes. I really like the looks of Chemeketa, and it will be a pleasure to watch it grow.

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: joelyboy911 on December 03, 2009, 09:36:13 PM
Congratulations on being inducted to the Hall of Fame, Alex. The last update was a great one, and I suspect there'll be plenty more where they came from. Looking forward to all the roads.

By the way, Vinlabsc3k, you can find a beta version of the new elevated roads right here [link] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=9008.0).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Earth quake on December 05, 2009, 07:22:19 AM
Congratulation for your entry in Hall of Fame, Tarkus.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Albus of Garaway on December 05, 2009, 10:54:50 AM
Also a huge congratulation on 1,000 replies!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on December 05, 2009, 04:15:45 PM
Looking good on the last update :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Haljackey on December 05, 2009, 06:54:33 PM
Alex, I wanted to congratulate you on your entry into the hall of fame.

Even with a hard drive wipe, you continue to show amazing work.  I'm looking forward to seeing your first official update now that you're in the hall of fame.  Tarkusian Cities will never be the same!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on December 06, 2009, 01:29:53 AM
Thanx art128 for the explanation ::), but I know already the NAM :-[ and I wanted to know the link to the mod as joelyboy911 did &ops.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: art128 on December 11, 2009, 03:32:39 AM
Quote from: vinlabsc3k on December 06, 2009, 01:29:53 AM
Thanx art128 for the explanation ::), but I know already the NAM :-[ and I wanted to know the link to the mod as joelyboy911 did &ops.

No problem, I was myself searching for the BETA too, now that it's done I can download it and watch it in the game. ..  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Nego on April 11, 2010, 06:42:12 PM
A little OT question but ware did you download the lots you used before you improved the roads like here:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnego.wikispaces.com%2Ffile%2Fview%2FPicture_8.JPG%2F133611963%2FPicture_8.JPG&hash=e945fd4906bf5c47a42a93f0908bbc06607d5bbe)
and here:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fnego.wikispaces.com%2Ffile%2Fview%2FPicture_6.JPG%2F133611933%2FPicture_6.JPG&hash=ad8ca53dfe88b4bc068c1e8c82c08671fbbe8998)
I know it's just eye candy, but I like them anyway.

     Also, I know it's a little late but congrats on the award! &apls ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: MattyFo on April 30, 2010, 12:05:27 PM
I'm gunna go out on a limb and say that he just made them himself in the LE.  I have done so also, it's quite simple. just find an appropriate texture for the ground and add some construction props.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: Nego on April 30, 2010, 02:24:43 PM
Oh thanks. I ended up doing that anyway after waiting 2 weeks and still not getting a reply but thanks anyway.


:)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 59--11/29/2009--Chemeketa: Ashcroft/5th Widening)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on April 30, 2010, 02:57:19 PM
Actually, those lots are part of the SFBT Construction Lot Set (or some such name), which AFAIK is on the STEX.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: Tarkus on April 30, 2010, 10:36:05 PM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities is (finally) back.  My apologies for the lack of activity here over the past 5 months.  The usual suspects (RL and my transit-modding activities here) took their toll, but also, to some extent, I have been pondering what I'm going to do with Tarkusian Cities now that it's in the Hall of Fame, a fact I am still in shock about--and my absolute heartfelt thanks to everyone here who made that possible. 

I guess you could say I've been suffering from a little bit of Second System Syndrome (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_system_syndrome) with it.  Now that I'm here in the HoF, I'd like to hit things "out of the park" with updates, to use the popular sports metaphor.  I've been trying to sink enough into the new region I introduced after my hard drive crash to get it really feeling right, and I have also been debating with myself about finally "pinpointing" my regions on the map in order to get some sort of geographic unity through the entire MD.  I've also pondered whether or not I have the time or energy to continue Tarkusian Cities on anything more than a once-in-a-blue moon basis, which is what it has been operating under for some time now.  Figuring out just what Update 60 would bring was really a daunting task, and I've more than likely overthought it to death. So, I've decided to go back to basics--good, old-fashioned, Tarkusian construction fun--and "wing it" after that, perhaps hinting at things to come very subtly . . .

Enough of me rambling. :D  Now onto some waaaaay overdue replies:

Adrian (adroman): Thank you for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the road-geekery!  Hope you didn't have too many withdrawals during the hiatus here. :D

Battlecat: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it, and yes, there will definitely need to be some signalization there in the future.  Those arterials are going to be picking up a lot of volume before long.

Vince (Blue Lightning): Thanks for the kind words--some of my Avenues in Chemeketa are starting to push it a bit far now, so it looks like I'm going to have to mod my way out. :D

Vivien (Earth quake): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction and the industrial area!  That's the first time I've really made a serious attempt at an industrial area and so I'm glad to see the effort paid off!

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks, and the bulldozers are finally warming up again after a lengthy break. :)  And thank you for the congratulations as well--I really appreciate it!

scott1964:  I'm glad you enjoyed the development that time around--thanks for the kind words!

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks--it's good to be back again here.  Hopefully, I'll be able to make this a little bit more regular.  I'm glad you enjoyed the historical tidbit, too--origins of geographic names are something I have a rather keen interest in and I'm sure you'll be seeing more along those lines here as well.  And thanks for the congratulations as well . . . 5 months later, it still hasn't fully sunken in.

Jon (JBSimio): I'm actually using the growables on those restaurants and box stores.  Sometimes, I have a hard time not growing them in areas where I'm wanting something else commercially, even.  I used to have difficulties getting them to show up before, but haven't had any problems since installing a Maxis Blocker and the CAM.  I also have a lot of low-density residential in many of my regions, which might also have something to do with it.  Thanks for the kind words, my fellow (and very deservedly so) HoF-er. :)

Matt (threestooges): No need to apologize, and thank you so much for the congratulations on the HoF and the kind words on the widening bit last update.  I've always been kind of obsessive about making sure I have a tile or two of "easement" along my arterials (particularly in residential areas), just in case . . . usually, that "just in case" ends up happening. :D

TmiguelT: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!  It's still kind of weird that Circuit City's not around . . . oddly enough, I still remember going to the first one in Oregon on opening day back in 1994.  I think you're probably right on Blockbuster--I worked at Blockbuster for a time in 2003-2004, and even then, they were talking about filing for bankruptcy when Viacom was trying to sell them off.

Jon (bakerton): Yeah, TDOT seems to always have quite the supply of funds . . . some say they're growing money on trees near one of their more remote maintenance facilities.  Others say it's just that the legislators are total roadgeeks.  Thanks for the kind words, and I hope you enjoy this latest update.

Bobbi: Thanks for the kind words and the congratulations--I appreciate it. :)

Robin (rooker1): Thanks for the congratulations--and thanks to you on all your tireless efforts with the MD section! It's a privilege being part of the HoF with Mind Scape--I was thinking "what would Robin do?" when I was designing that industrial area. :thumbsup: 

Geoff (calibanX): Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the construction, and it looks like the season's about to get back into full swing again!

Adam (Ennedi): Thank you for the (all too) kind words, my friend, and for the congratulations--it's really great to be part of the HoF with Shosaloza, too, which has been a big influence on my efforts here. :)  Fortunately, I think I'm going to keep going here with Tarkusian Cities . . . it may get to be a bit slow at times, but I enjoy doing it!  And yes, I do take that as a good prediction. :D

Daniel (Shadow Assassin): Thanks for the congratulations, mate, and I'm glad you enjoyed the developments of the last update!  It's really a privilege to be able to share the HoF with Whitefall, too--your mapping efforts were an especially huge influence on things here. :)

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks for the kind words, and to answer your question, that was smoncrie's mod, which he released a public Alpha of.  As Joel pointed out, you can pick it up here (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=9008.0).  It's incomplete at the moment and just covers the Orthogonals and some overpasses, and smoncrie has (unfortunately) been MIA since November.

Arthur (art128): Yes, that's precisely it, though the Alpha is public for this one (mainly as it doesn't involve any RUL modifications). :)  That particular mod's future is in limbo at the moment with smoncrie being gone, but that idea of remodeling those pieces has been kicking around for years now.  One of these days. :D

Joan (Jmouse): Thank you so much for the kind words and for all your support of my MDing efforts here since the very beginning--my most heartfelt appreciation to you for that.  I'm very happy to hear you like what's happening with Chemeketa, and I have a feeling you'll be seeing much more of it. :) 

Joel (joelyboy911): Thanks for the congratulations--it's still kinda weird being here in the HoF!  And you can be certain there will be more roads. :D

Vivien (Earth quake): Thanks for congratulating me, and thank you for "rolling the odometer" on Tarkusian Cities with the first "000" post!  You'll be getting "on the map" in a big way here soon. :)

Jason (Albus of Garaway): Thanks for the congrats--I'm still in shock . . . two milestones so close together. :o

Corey (Nexis4Jersey): Thanks--glad you enjoyed it and hope this one is similarly enjoyable!

Haljackey: Thanks for the kind words, my friend!  And you'll finally get to see that update now. :D  Also, congrats to you on finishing a great run with The Greater Terran Region (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=3340.0) as well.  It will be missed by many, I'm sure--including myself, as it was one of my favorite spots to stop by in the MD section. :)

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k) and Arthur (art128): Glad you found it--hope you've been enjoying it. :)

Nego: Thanks for the congratulations! :)  My apologies for the delay on the answer, but as Zack (woodb3kmaster--thanks, Zack!) pointed out, those are indeed from the SFBT Construction Set by Deejay, which you can pick up here (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=14360).  It's been serving me well for 3 years now. :thumbsup:

MattyFo: Actually, that's the SFBT set--however, I've been toying around with the idea of doing some custom construction lots and props and that kind of stuff for awhile now.  Main reason I haven't yet is time, but one of these days . . .




Now, for what you've all been waiting for . . . more Tarkusian Cities.  We'll be sticking around Chemeketa, where Public Works is going to be widening 16th Avenue NE.  Bringing the map back over . . .

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F3506%2Fsamapregion11222009.th.png&hash=9aed6a430c845647b56bbeb4ffa50684a75f8bbe) (http://img4.imageshack.us/i/samapregion11222009.png/)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
[align=center]Ashcroft Street NE and 5th Avenue NE Widening[/align]

16th Avenue NE is a major east-west arterial, which provides a convenient connection the north end of downtown up with the West Oregon Freeway, Highway 9, and the eastern suburbs.  However, as a 2-lane road, it does not have nearly enough capacity to handle this important function.  This particular phase of the project will widen 16th from Division Street (Highway 219) to McCabe Street NE.  The new roadway will feature 4 travel lanes, 2 in each direction.

This is along 16th, just west of the Ashcroft Street intersection, facing east.  Construction has already begun.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg163.imageshack.us%2Fimg163%2F402%2Fu601.jpg&hash=917e9d56071ad050bd1429e1039143f6fffc176a)


This is at the 16th/Ashcroft Street intersection, facing east, with the former site of Circuit City on the right side.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F5275%2Fu602.jpg&hash=90def453594f2bd83edf0eddd2c169a679238562)


Parts of the new wider roadway, facing east.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg706.imageshack.us%2Fimg706%2F2809%2Fu603.jpg&hash=ff14c87bd2a4c23ac10fc20128de0348d1d7b68f)


This is farther east on 16th, between Ashcroft and McCabe, facing east:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg692.imageshack.us%2Fimg692%2F4167%2Fu606.jpg&hash=ea1cf6245fddbdb5941f9324dd31c2cd1362fcae)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg706.imageshack.us%2Fimg706%2F2442%2Fu604.jpg&hash=0feec95560012d4852397e1263b4880f94c09002)


The new wider roadway has been opened up west of Ashcroft near the Del Taco, facing east.  The widening has increased the value of commercial real estate in the area, and that construction site on the north side of 16th is especially prime right now.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg62.imageshack.us%2Fimg62%2F1077%2Fu607.jpg&hash=06cf48d90692624bd6e8ce9242cffbdf28484d50)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F7563%2Fu609.jpg&hash=77ca2d0531bea8e23073a5770580aed71fb0917c)


Here is the improved 16th and Ashcroft intersection, after widening, facing east:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg706.imageshack.us%2Fimg706%2F9733%2Fu608.jpg&hash=0416b97efd9c678698fb3c7fa5e4f6ced9faee03)


A grocery store has now filled in that vacant commercial land on 16th, facing east:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg251.imageshack.us%2Fimg251%2F3862%2Fu6011.jpg&hash=19fecc423f24075f7c137a70d2d3eeb5ae28434a)


The current west end of the widened section of 16th, just east of the intersection with Progress Street NE, facing east.  The businesses and residences between here and Division Street are not particularly keen on giving up property for the widening . . .

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg694.imageshack.us%2Fimg694%2F8783%2Fu6010.jpg&hash=9cf0857ffcdd560564f7df6e0b2011b137b45d3c)


Next time, we'll see what the City of Chemeketa plans to do with this last segment of the project. 

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: canyonjumper on April 30, 2010, 11:43:52 PM
Great update Alex! Great to see you back updating! As usual, excellent use of the construction lots and SAM!

                 Your friend,
                                Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: ecoba on May 01, 2010, 02:40:05 PM
Welcome back, Alex.  :)

I'm sure that many of us are excited to have your wonderful work back, but the wait was definitely worth it, and all the hard work that you devote to the NAM definitely excuses you for not updating so often.

This widening was a very interesting project to read over, yet it definitely did not lack your impeccable 'roadgeek' style. I like the way that you also showed us the differences in property values before and after the widening; certainly an interesting touch that hasn't been seen before. The final product also looks wonderful.

Ethan  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: rooker1 on May 03, 2010, 04:16:34 AM
Welcome back Alex. 
Your MD was greatly missed......uh and so were you.  :D
It's funny that you say you thinking about how I would prepare my industrial areas while you were making your own.  I find myself doing just the same thing.  There are so many great MDs here that it's hard to not think about all the other great ideas that other's have had, while preparing your own cities.
I have always found it interesting how you expand your networks.  It's a point I usually just skip over while I am showing pictures in my own MD.  Sometimes, though, it's not just the ending pictures that so many of us enjoy, it's the journey as well and this is where your MD excels!

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: Haljackey on May 03, 2010, 07:52:27 AM
It's always great to see a classic MD return. Looks like you're always widening something every update... it's a never-ending process.  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: RickD on May 03, 2010, 02:04:42 PM
QuoteSo, I've decided to go back to basics--good, old-fashioned, Tarkusian construction fun--and "wing it" after that, perhaps hinting at things to come very subtly . .

I for one am totally happy with this decision.  :thumbsup: I must admit you had me worried during the long inactivity.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: j-dub on May 03, 2010, 08:43:42 PM
Just a little observation, how come not all of your traffic lights are showing up?

Example:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg251.imageshack.us%2Fimg251%2F3862%2Fu6011.jpg&hash=19fecc423f24075f7c137a70d2d3eeb5ae28434a)
They appear on the one end of the T but not the other.
This isn't because your in the process of replacing them is it?
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg706.imageshack.us%2Fimg706%2F9733%2Fu608.jpg&hash=0416b97efd9c678698fb3c7fa5e4f6ced9faee03)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: citybuilderx on May 04, 2010, 05:36:27 AM
Awesome work Tarkus! Good to see the return of the Tarkusian Cities!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: EDGE4194 on May 04, 2010, 06:04:00 PM
alex- nice to see you back here again. I always enjoy seeing your latest construction projects and look forward to see what's next.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: Ryan B. on May 06, 2010, 06:20:22 AM
To answer J-Dub's question:

It could be because of Alex's detail settings.

Then again, it could be due to the JPEG compression.

Just my two cents . . . great job, Alex!

It's great to see my old ATL plugin still kicking around . . . . it's a bit nostalgic, since its days of effectiveness are numbered.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: Jmouse on May 06, 2010, 08:55:56 PM
Well, some smart investors really padded their wallets by snapping up land north of 16th Ave. NE. Chances are they saw the new development coming several years ago what with a perfect tie-in just waiting to be extended. I don't see that existing split in 16th St. between Ashcroft and McCabe on the map, though (fourth and fifth photos). Hope I'm looking in the right place and didn't miss a step. &mmm

I've seen other players allow roads to intersect busy avenues, and I have to question the practicality of it. From time to time, a rushed driver is going to try and scoot across in front of oncoming traffic and end up as a hood ornament!

j-dub mentioned traffic lights,
but I was already thinking about both sides of the argument (last two pix). Do you really want to stop traffic on a busy avenue at every cross street – or even every third or fourth? Seems like the latter would draw a bunch of protests from angry residents, too, and possibly redefine the old adage, "What will the neighbors think?" The lack of adequate traffic control is likely to have deadly consequences, though.

I'd really like to hear
your views on this question and those of other experienced Road meisters. :)

Later...

Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: citymax on May 07, 2010, 12:38:20 AM
Very nice work ;)  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: Ryan B. on May 07, 2010, 06:38:52 AM
Quote from: Jmouse on May 06, 2010, 08:55:56 PM
Well, some smart investors really padded their wallets by snapping up land north of 16th Ave. NE. Chances are they saw the new development coming several years ago what with a perfect tie-in just waiting to be extended. I don't see that existing split in 16th St. between Ashcroft and McCabe on the map, though (fourth and fifth photos). Hope I'm looking in the right place and didn't miss a step. &mmm

I've seen other players allow roads to intersect busy avenues, and I have to question the practicality of it. From time to time, a rushed driver is going to try and scoot across in front of oncoming traffic and end up as a hood ornament!

j-dub mentioned traffic lights,
but I was already thinking about both sides of the argument (last two pix). Do you really want to stop traffic on a busy avenue at every cross street – or even every third or fourth? Seems like the latter would draw a bunch of protests from angry residents, too, and possibly redefine the old adage, "What will the neighbors think?" The lack of adequate traffic control is likely to have deadly consequences, though.

I'd really like to hear
your views on this question and those of other experienced Road meisters. :)

Later...

Joan


In the real world, progressive timing would be used on the arterial road to ensure the best-possible traffic flow.  Where it gets really difficult is incorporating all the left-turn movements.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: TmiguelT on May 09, 2010, 05:53:21 PM
Great come back update !! You didn't only brought a magnificent update, but you and the NAM team released the new NAM and RHW!!  &apls &apls &apls &apls &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: bakerton on May 11, 2010, 07:02:59 AM
nice comeback Alex. I have always enjoyed your work and with the new NAM and RHW out, maybe TarkusianCities will be even more enjoyable. I do wonder what the TDOT has instore for us readers for the future. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--4/30/2010--Chemeketa: 16th Ave NE Widening)
Post by: marsh on May 12, 2010, 05:07:01 PM
Great update! Love the road... expanding... story. Or whatever you want to call it... &mmm... yea

&apls &apls &apls

,marsh
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: Tarkus on May 18, 2010, 03:05:18 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another update--we'll be going back to Chemeketa and taking a look at the end of the 16th Avenue project.

But first, some replies:

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks for the kind words and the welcome back!  It's good to be back at it, and hopefully, I'll be able to keep it up a little bit more regularly.  I'm shooting for about every 2 weeks or so.

Ethan (ecoba): Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad to hear that it was worth the wait!  I'm hoping to try to incorporate more of those little details like property values, land use and the like in coming updates, and I'm also looking to revisit the advance roadway planning like I did with the earlier Argentum Revisited updates.

Robin (rooker1):  Thanks for the welcome back and the insightful thoughts!  It really is hard not to glean some ideas from all the other MDs around here--there's really been some great ones over the years.  It's also hard not to get some from RL cities and regions as well--a game like SimCity really is a context-driven one in many ways.

And I'm glad to hear you've enjoyed the construction projects as well--I find there's really no limit to the amount of things I can find to tweak on my cities, particularly on the transportation end.  That's the nice thing about an open-ended game like this, and what has kept me and I'd presume most others here playing it for so long after its release.

Haljackey:  Thanks for the kind words!  It's really good to be back at long last, and there really is no end to all these construction projects.  Being a bulldozer operator in one of my regions is a surefire way to have job security. :D

Raphael (RickD): Thanks for the welcome back, and I'm glad to have it back in business as well.  I was worried as well, but fortunately, I think you'll be seeing Tarkusian Cities continue for some time to come. :)

j-dub: Hehe . . . you caught me.  I had been playing around with some T21s, but had pulled them out and hadn't rebuilt the roadways since that time.  The big intersection at Ashcroft/16th has been all TuLEPified now, though (looking east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F739%2Fu6114.jpg&hash=81e97895ac45ffd7dd785b55abac43876c0d63bc)

citybuilderx: Thanks for the kind words--it's good to be back. :)

Eric (EDGE4194):  Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the return and the latest update! :thumbsup:

Ryan B.:  Nice cover. ::) :D  Coincidentally, I did actually recently increase the detail settings in-game, as my new laptop can handle it.  And yes, your old ATL textures have been a standby here for a long time--they're a true classic. :thumbsup:  And without the rest of that mod, there would've probably never been an NWM.  I'd imagine you'll still see them make a cameo every once and awhile even now in the age of TuLEPs. :)

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks for the kind words, and the interesting questions. :)  The developers were indeed thinking ahead there--16th is going to prove a pretty "hopping" spot, so to speak.  As far as McCabe Street goes, I could see the confusion as I didn't actually show the 16th/McCabe intersection--it's actually even further east than I showed in the construction project. 

As far as the signals go, the 16th/Ashcroft intersection is now fully signalized--the traffic volumes certainly warrant it.  The only other signals in the immediate vicinity on Ashcroft north of Highway 36 are at 5th, 13th and Jones . . . there's also been some development farther north since that last map, and a signal's at Ashcroft/24th now as well.  So far, it seems to have the proper balance, though we'll be looking at an example that doesn't have the proper balance relatively soon.  Chemeketa's actually grown a great deal since that map, and you'll soon get to see the full extent of it.

citymax: Thanks, I appreciate it. :thumbsup:

Ryan B.: Yes, indeed--traffic signal control systems are rather complicated beasts.  Modern systems have some rather neat software involved, and there's really an art to using it.  To an extent, it's too bad SC4 doesn't really have that sort of control, but to properly do it, it'd probably require quite a chunk of code.

TmiguelT:  Thanks for the welcome back, and the congratulations on the new releases.  I'm really thrilled to finally have the NWM out to the public in particular, after a lengthy 3.5 year development process.  You can sure bet you'll be seeing a lot of NWM stuff (both existing and in development for Version 2) here in the near future.

Jon (bakerton):  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm almost positive there will be some rather cool stuff showing up here now that the new NAM content is out.  Next update, I'll probably show off the Highway 9/36 interchange--it's a beast.  And as you'll soon find out, TDOT is technically no more, being replaced with another highway authority . . .

marsh: Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it!




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
15th Avenue NE/16th Avenue NE Couplet Project


Last update, you may have noticed the 16th Avenue NE widening project hit a bit of a "dead end" just east of Progress Street--some businesses and residences that weren't particularly keen on getting plowed under.  While there will still inevitably be some structures removed, Public Works has found a solution that should allow for the proper improvements between Progress and Division without too much difficulty.

This project will extend 15th Avenue NE and connect it to 16th, and convert the sections of 15th and 16th between that junction and Division Street into a one-way couplet.

Here's where we left off last time (facing east):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg694.imageshack.us%2Fimg694%2F8783%2Fu6010.jpg&hash=9cf0857ffcdd560564f7df6e0b2011b137b45d3c)

The bulldozers have already come out . . . OfficeWorks and a few houses had to be taken out, but the disruption is otherwise minimal (facing west):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F5435%2Fu616.jpg&hash=f3269568f868e1af309ba5cd1d4118692a5d3781)

The start of the new 15th alignment has been built, and eastbound traffic on 16th has been re-routed onto it at Progress Street (facing west);
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg29.imageshack.us%2Fimg29%2F6029%2Fu617.jpg&hash=7c536a73caae7a1f8e4534ce279c7c035e269210)

Here's the existing section of 16th west of Progress (facing west)--that one-way street toward the top of the image is Commerce Street NE (Highway 219 northbound).  You can see 15th currently ends before the railroad tracks.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg683.imageshack.us%2Fimg683%2F5294%2Fu618.jpg&hash=a9928c06b9417e194beae2f468c9fdb6f6f9ba26)

Work on the new 15th Ave crossing begins (facing west)--a couple buildings will have to be demolished here on this end as well:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg175.imageshack.us%2Fimg175%2F1038%2Fu619.jpg&hash=f4ea3cd0bb6445368bd4143b7d54585a02537fdc)

Demolition complete (facing east)--you can see the new alignment of 15th going in here, and a new building has sprung up at 16th and Commerce.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg512.imageshack.us%2Fimg512%2F2121%2Fu6110.jpg&hash=0d45684069506c53862bb0255e643a6815e0e1ce)

And the new one-way section of 15th is now paved and in place (facing east), with the existing section of 16th converted to one-way traffic.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg98.imageshack.us%2Fimg98%2F7128%2Fu6111.jpg&hash=c9d12fb10555f2f992f51995ec3e4791ffb006db)

This is back near Progress Street (facing west), now that the couplet is open.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F5445%2Fu6112.jpg&hash=31d138f2ff244f6c45e102ba2e9e3c42a256b038)

A new park was built in the "triangle" where the couplet splits (facing west).
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F3835%2Fu6113.jpg&hash=7930d5caedab58f5eb78db1768ae235a6afc3c2b)

And here's an updated map of the city tile.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg190.imageshack.us%2Fimg190%2F4431%2Fchemeketa05082010.th.png&hash=34bd9ad47410fdbfd7cea4cda7c87d701d0e8752) (http://img190.imageshack.us/i/chemeketa05082010.png/)

We'll take a look around various other places in the Chemeketa region next update.  Hope you enjoyed this one--construction season begins again. :)

-Alex



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: noahclem on May 18, 2010, 03:49:57 PM
Looks great Alex! I like your less destructive solution to the rising traffic volume in that area. Reminds me of older, but not CBD, parts of mid-western cities (4th Ave and University Ave in Minneapolis spring to mind). Look forward to more :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: marsh on May 18, 2010, 04:36:18 PM
I love the soulution you came up with for upgrading that road  :thumbsup:

,marsh
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 60--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: metarvo on May 18, 2010, 06:43:17 PM
I can't believe TDot's gone!  :o  Did they go broke or something?

Anyway, I'm glad to see that you've made another update.  It's too bad that some buildings had to be torn down, but that's part of construction, I guess.  MattB's houses really seem to shine in this update, providing that good old suburban feel.  Keep up the good work, Alex.

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: Nanami on May 19, 2010, 10:31:44 PM
Very great MD!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: bakerton on May 20, 2010, 05:47:39 AM
I held a (mock) funeral for TDOT. I am sad that it is gone, but I do hope the new agency will keep up just as TDOT as done. Anyhow, nice work with 15th Street realinment. Alex, keep up with this "constructive" work. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: Haljackey on May 21, 2010, 10:47:47 AM
Hey, nice job with the road realignments. The new OWR system looks like it can handle more traffic, and make it more efficient.

Also, what's with that weird looking turquoise building? Looks a little out of place where it is.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: TmiguelT on May 22, 2010, 10:44:16 PM
Excellent way of solving that little pesky problem  :thumbsup: .
You are a genius in solving this kind of problems  &apls

Ps. I didn't see Office works go Kaboom this time.. i guess i'll see another big building goes kaboom  &hlp 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: canyonjumper on May 23, 2010, 08:47:26 PM
Great update Alex! I like your fences you used. Do you still have a link to them?

               Your friend, 
                              Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: JBSimio on May 24, 2010, 10:49:27 AM
Nice update, Alex!  The one way road solution is one that I've seen many times in more densely built areas when simply widening the road would cause far too much disruption.  I also enjoyed watching you "break through" with the new route at the railroad crossing.  It all seemed very realistic and well done.  If only all progress could be done so cleanly!  ;)

JB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: Jmouse on May 25, 2010, 09:17:28 PM
My but you do take realism in road construction seriously, don't you! :) Looks like you've weighed costs and benefits vs. destruction of property very carefully.

I was concerned about an unacceptable increase in vehicular traffic in the neighborhood bordered by 16th Ave. NE, Ashcroft St. NE, 5th Ave. NE and Progress St. NE during morning and afternoon rush hours. Based on the newest map, it looks like residents can either go east to Progress or west to Ashcroft, which is fully signaled, and enter the 16th Ave. thoroughfare pretty easily now, though. I'd like to know how well this new arrangement works out after a suitable length of time.

The amenities you've added – like the park  - are a nice touch. Glad to see there's still an interest in the area among commercial developers, too. The two modern buildings in the sixth and seventh photos look a bit out of place against the vintage structures, but that's just personal taste showing through. &mmm In many areas, it's called progress!

I've always enjoyed your blow-by-blow description of what you're doing and why. I still do!

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 61--5/18/2010--Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet)
Post by: City Builder on May 25, 2010, 09:40:55 PM
As usual, another beautiful update to a great MD.

Thanks for continuing to share.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Tarkus on June 10, 2010, 01:02:18 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, after a bit of RL, Tarkusian Cities returns . . . I've got some stuff this update that's a little bit different--a relatively large update exploring more of Chemeketa and vicinity, the "reveal" of TDOT's "successor", and plenty of big maps.

But first, replies:

noahclem: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it.  It does have kind of a bit of a Midwest-y feel there, come to think of it.  The real Salem, Oregon has some sections along those lines as well near downtown, too.  I'm glad you liked the less destructive solution there, too . . . it seemed like the One-Ways were a good fit there, and fortunately, the way Chemeketa's set up, many of the construction projects will probably generally be less . . . drastic :D . . . than those in my older regions.

marsh: Thanks for the kind words on the alignment!  I really like how that one come out, too.

metarvo: Nope, TDOT didn't go broke . . . technically, they kinda got renamed/relocated, as you'll see this update.  Thanks for compliments on the update--'twas good to return and good to be back updating again today. :)  I've really become a big fan of MattB's stuff since doing this region, too.  Before my HD crash in November, I had hardly any of his stuff in my Plugins, but when I rebuilt them, I downloaded just about everything he made, and now, I don't know how I ever really lived without it.  His content really fits into the "Tarkusian style" very well.

976: Thanks, I'm glad you're enjoying it!

Jon (bakerton): I'm sure TDOT appreciates the sentiment. :)  Of course, I think you'll find its successor every bit as good (if not better, since they've got new NAM stuff to play around with ;D).  Thanks for the kind words on the realignment, too--this update will be a bit more "overview-ish" in nature, but it's definitely construction season here, so you can be sure the bulldozers (and cranes) will be out in force.

Haljackey: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the update and like the One-Way couplet solution there!  And yes, the turquoise building does stick out like the proverbial sore thumb.  The zoning committee took a fair bit of flack over it, to say the least.

TmiguelT: Thanks for the all-too-kind words!  Yeah, there ended up being no kaboom this time.  The Office Works demolition there wasn't really all that spectacular to see--just a little backhoe action.  May be awhile before there's another big kaboom, as many of the upcoming projects will probably take place on largely undeveloped land, since Chemeketa had a bit more foresight on their transport planning than places like . . . oh . . . Argentum. :D

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the update!  The fences being used are out of the BSC Park Walls set, which can be found here (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=477).  I've been addicted to using them in this region. :thumbsup:

Jon (JBSimio): Thanks for the kind words--I've seen that solution used before around here a bit (Philomath, Oregon, about 30 miles northwest of here, recently did that downtown a few years ago) and it does tend to work well.  That railroad crossing breakthrough was probably my favorite part, too. :)

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks for the all-to-kind words!  Fortunately, the new arrangement seems to be working out rather well, though progress is ironically something commuters are having somewhat of a hard time doing on Progress Street just a bit north of the project area.  The immediate vicinity to the north (which will be unveiled this update) is going to be quite the challenge.  I'm glad you liked the park, too, and I agree on the architectural aesthetics there.  Makes navigation a bit easier, though, I suppose ("turn right at the giant weird turquoise building!").  :D  Though this update will be a little bit more "exploratory" than construction-oriented, I am planning to have some more long-range road/highway planning mixed into the construction coming up, which I hope you'll enjoy.

City Builder:  Thanks for the compliments, and the pleasure is all mine. :)




Well, this update is going to be a little bit different . . . we'll mostly be taking a look around parts of Chemeketa I haven't shown yet.  Additionally, some of you are probably wondering what's this business about"TDOT's successor" . . . well, folks, say hello to ORDOT:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg809.imageshack.us%2Fimg809%2F5599%2Fordotlogo.png&hash=c23aebc28b505fcaa1861aa3e8b9151631208021)

You may notice the full name is "Oregon Republic Department of Transportation" . . . well, in the alternate universe that Chemeketa exists in, it's part of a larger alternate universe Oregon that is its own country.  The alternate universe "Republic" actually consists of all of the area originally contained in the Oregon Territory as it was defined in 1848, consisting of all of the modern US state of Oregon, plus all of Washington and Idaho, and pieces of Montana and Wyoming.  Additionally, the republic gradually acquired (through peaceful means) all of what we know as California and Nevada north of 39'N by the mid-1850s--perfect timing when the Comstock Lode (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comstock_Lode) was found, which was a particular boon to the nation's early economy and international stature.  The republic consists of 8 states: Olympus, Willamette, Columbia, Wasco, Kootenai, Bonneville, Siskiyou and Lahontan.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg413.imageshack.us%2Fimg413%2F1047%2Foregonrepublicsquare.png&hash=a738a0d60809ebf3259d19fbcb942ba93ba60be3)

Chemeketa, as you might guess, is located in Willamette state.  Here it is roughly pinpointed:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg256.imageshack.us%2Fimg256%2F7539%2Foregonrepublicsquareche.png&hash=760b9b2651a24678a92f8ca7a57f72cfd5d9824e)


Now for that tour I promised . . . and first, here's a larger map of Chemeketa . . . this still isn't the full region, and I've still got a lot of roads to name, but it covers pretty much all of Chemeketa proper, as well as the nearby smaller cities of Vivien Heights (named after our good friend and 1000th poster Earth quake) and Windsor, as well as parts of unincorporated Marion County.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg153.imageshack.us%2Fimg153%2F6109%2Fchemeketa06092010thumb.jpg&hash=32a784dbe8676f48f3365125f4f1ef1bec9d7bd7) (http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/8733/chemeketa06092010.png)


A night shot of downtown

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg443.imageshack.us%2Fimg443%2F5164%2Fu621.jpg&hash=28daf593ac6b7e23ecfe38165610f10d2e8f9915)


Work is already beginning on a rebuild of the Hebo Highway (currently Highway 36) through downtown, facing west.  The interchange at the bottom is with Division Street--that's the southern terminus of Highway 219 there, which goes all the way up to Hillsboro, some 45 miles away.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg204.imageshack.us%2Fimg204%2F2794%2Fu622.jpg&hash=06c5d6795ad60a64aefada9dd55d1bf4975af21d)


South Chemeketa's Radio Hill neighborhood--this is at Halvorson Road SE and 35th Street SE, looking south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg514.imageshack.us%2Fimg514%2F6634%2Fu623.jpg&hash=b401ab58429b15e9caa85ddad2b11e34bc2f7a1b)


The smaller industrial area immediately east of downtown--this is at 5th Avenue NE and McCabe Street, just north of the interchange with the highway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg52.imageshack.us%2Fimg52%2F7233%2Fu624.jpg&hash=78009f55f22dca2b6021ddfeb0a26e109be088a6)


This is in the heart of the larger industrial area that is located southwest of the Highway 15/36 interchange, right along Sorenson Street SE, facing north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg824.imageshack.us%2Fimg824%2F4762%2Fu625.jpg&hash=50c762060cba64066e07fdb5114eb8b9986a3d95)


The interchange with Highway 36 and Sorenson Street, facing west.  Sorenson Street is a major north-south arterial through town, but much like this interchange, it's wildly substandard in most parts and in need of major improvement, as you'll soon see.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg819.imageshack.us%2Fimg819%2F5176%2Fu626.jpg&hash=fc93736248403b55d53320e112a12afadc541506)


A much less substandard interchange--this is where Highway 36 connects Downtown Chemeketa up with Highway 15, the West Oregon Freeway, looking north.  Highway 15 is basically the "alternate universe Oregon" equivalent of the real world Interstate 5 (15 even kinda looks like "I5"), and essentially the lifeblood for Willamette, Olympus, and Siskiyou Provinces, connecting them into British Columbia and the Republic of California.  The interchange is still getting a little tweaking from ORDOT, though.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg227.imageshack.us%2Fimg227%2F3572%2Fu627.jpg&hash=82784989f225a9f15a85e9ad49b8d0dd8f156807)


This is along Halpert Road NE facing west, near East Chemeketa High School, home of the fightin' Albacore! (Odd mascot, I know).  Halpert Road is a major arterial east of Highway 15 and serves as a sort of "main drag" for East Chemeketa.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg571.imageshack.us%2Fimg571%2F2578%2Fu628.jpg&hash=34829c6fb6111ce14b6211cb0f31cf40aec112b1)


Here we are along Highway 15 again (facing north), at the fast-growing high-tech industrial area in the northeast part of Chemeketa.  The overpass you see is 64th Avenue NE.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg684.imageshack.us%2Fimg684%2F5583%2Fu629.jpg&hash=5fbde8d0db41cbc1599d80d8dfe76619e16cc523)


This is at 52nd Avenue NE and Halpert (facing north), a major intersection in this part of town, right in the heart of the high-tech area.  There's also a small commercial "strip" of sorts along 52nd, largely catering to the tech crowd.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F4530%2Fu6211.jpg&hash=23840542a93c8a7bb0886d2716a23ff4d5578da2)


The curve along Halpert Road (facing east)--you may recognize this image . . . it's one of the two used on the NWM upload.  (The other one with the MAVE-4 and the Street, in case you're wondering, is along Ashcroft Street, also in Chemeketa.)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F3471%2Fu6210.jpg&hash=ad0d1a7f39bc45eb337f7c77c44f73b2d0e399d0)


Here's what Sorenson Street looks like in this part of town (facing north), as it crosses the fittingly named Sorenson Creek (which isn't yet shown on the map). 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg688.imageshack.us%2Fimg688%2F4931%2Fu6213.jpg&hash=87b9cb0dde37a8a9577bfbf7020eb1c567df9f57)


Here's 52nd crossing Sorenson Creek (facing west).  52nd between Ashcroft and Highway 15 is an example of the City of Chemeketa's so-called "Surfways"--a portmanteau of "surface" and "expressway", schemed up by a planner with a penchant for silly puns.  Unfortunately, as congested as 52nd is most of the time, it's rare you actually get to "ride the wave" at the rather pleasant 50mph posted speed limit.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg257.imageshack.us%2Fimg257%2F4384%2Fu6212.jpg&hash=9de4026c8fe4bfc0a0da56b01f127eb6c200932e)


This is the intersection of 52nd and Sorenson . . . which, just like the rest of Sorenson Street, is wildly substandard.  This particular intersection is ranked #3 right now as one of the most dangerous in the city.  We'll see #1 in a moment.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg155.imageshack.us%2Fimg155%2F167%2Fu6214.jpg&hash=3868854f6cc506ec9c4fdb5c387d6df41e2b7fab)


Now we're back to Ashcroft Street (facing north), which is still a major arterial this far north--it was actually part of a prior alignment of Highway 15 before the West Oregon Freeway was completed.  You can see part of that "old" alignment there on the left. Ashcroft was transferred to city control in 1970, and the city eventually re-aligned Ashcroft a few years later when it was widened to 4 lanes.  The cross street there is 59th Avenue NE.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg266.imageshack.us%2Fimg266%2F1152%2Fu6215.jpg&hash=7f40b2971339fb23498a84a9d954700f80c1f4e6)


This is 59th/Erickson Way and Ashcroft again (facing south). . . the city's already made some improvements by adding right turn lanes to decrease right turn queueing, though Erickson east of Ashcroft is increasingly starting to become burdened with traffic and will likely need some improvement.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg90.imageshack.us%2Fimg90%2F8607%2Fu6216.jpg&hash=b2040927fd57eefc74b14fe89457bfa8e1e598af)


Here's a rather mondo intersection . . . 71st Avenue NE and Ashcroft (facing north).  71st is another "Surfway", also between Ashcroft and Highway 15.  It ties in to the northern end of the high tech area we looked at earlier, and until recently, had formed the northern city limits for Chemeketa.  While 71st also needs to be beefed up, this intersection isn't the #1 on the list.  In fact, it's doing a pretty darn good job despite the very high volumes, thanks to those dual left turn lanes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg580.imageshack.us%2Fimg580%2F1374%2Fu6217.jpg&hash=571c92ada1f0b885fd057102bf37ad8f205e1493)



This here is the #1 most dangerous intersection in the Chemeketa area--52nd Avenue and Highway 219, also known as Hillsboro Highway NE (facing south).
 
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg689.imageshack.us%2Fimg689%2F8018%2Fu6218.jpg&hash=5293bc64debe2e65c708c0873dbe6512d853f291)


You may remember 219 along the Division/Commerce couplet downtown . . . it becomes a 2-lane expressway just north of 24th Avenue NE (with a couple 4-lane spots).  52nd takes on the Highway 221 designation west of this intersection as it crosses over the Willamette, into Eola County and skirts the north edge of the City of Vivien Heights.  ORDOT, as well as both Marion and Eola Counties, and the Cities of Chemeketa and Vivien Heights are already formulating a plan to fix this problem spot, which will be integrated as part of a series of long-term projects to improve 52nd.

52nd Avenue NW in Eola County, just across the bridge (facing south).  It has a rather elaborate little interchange with Wallace Road NW, a major arterial through Vivien Heights, which you can see a glimpse of on the right.  The city had planned to open up the land north of 52nd for development, which it recently annexed, but with the current traffic issues on 52nd, it has temporarily put a moratorium on construction in the area until the necessary improvements have been made--a rather risky move from an economic standpoint as Vivien Heights is trying to emerge as more than a simple "bedroom community" of Chemeketa.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg822.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F3148%2Fu6219.jpg&hash=65a88853bc824b32d17ff2820d3c2259b3807209)


So, that does it for this update.  We'll be looking at some construction again this next update, and there's a good chance you'll see ORDOT in action for the first time.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Haljackey on June 10, 2010, 01:49:02 PM
Well, Alex...
I have to say that this is your best update yet!  &apls Excellent job I must say! :thumbsup:

That night pic is great, and I did not expect seeing something like that at all. Your construction shots are always good, so not much more to say there. However, that RHW-RHW interchange connecting Highway 36 with Highway 15 is simply something else! Excellent use of MIS pieces!

Such detail, such realism! This is truly one of those updates that proves Tarkusian Cities belongs in the MD Hall of Fame.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Nego on June 10, 2010, 02:17:43 PM
Welcome to page 53!
Quote from: Tarkus on June 10, 2010, 01:02:18 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg90.imageshack.us%2Fimg90%2F8607%2Fu6216.jpg&hash=b2040927fd57eefc74b14fe89457bfa8e1e598af)


Is that some new TuLEPs I see? :D

Nice update! I like the maps. Very cool :thumbsup: You never seize to amaze us, Tarkus. The way you can make amazing interchanges with the RHW. How you plan out residential areas to make them look so realistic! All great!

I can't wait for your next update!

&apls &apls &apls &apls &apls

:)

Edit:
Found another one:
Quote from: Tarkus on June 10, 2010, 01:02:18 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F4530%2Fu6211.jpg&hash=23840542a93c8a7bb0886d2716a23ff4d5578da2)
the left intersection uses advanced TULEPs too, I see.

;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: ecoba on June 10, 2010, 03:29:07 PM
Great update, Alex. The detail that you put into your work is simply amazing. The way that you also show us all of the intersections is really cool as well.

The "Oregon Republic" reminds me of an altered version of the proposed "Cascadia".

One detail that I thought was very humurous, if not interesting, in this update was the "countdown", if you will, of the most dangerous intersections in Chemeketa.

Great work here, my friend, and hope that you can get another wonderful update up soon.

Ethan :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: noahclem on June 10, 2010, 03:30:41 PM
Really cool! Seems like growth is really taking off! Overall solid and of course brilliant thoroughness and attention to detail. To pick out a couple things among many, I enjoyed your "surfways" and your use of the word "portmanteau". Good luck with your problem intersections as you work toward the next update  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: canyonjumper on June 10, 2010, 07:35:12 PM
Fantastic update Alex! I love your usage of the TuLEPS! I agree with haljackey in that this is your best update I've seen ;D

                    Your friend,
                                   Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: TJ1 on June 10, 2010, 10:33:28 PM
I see some advanced TuLeps here. :) Great Job Alex. :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: itsacoaster on June 14, 2010, 10:59:16 AM
Tarkus I like your use of "surfways."  I do a similar type of thing in my cities, using a hybrid of RHW and avenue sections, with few surface intersections along it (usually only at avenues).  It gives the flexibility of a grade-separated interchange in the future if needed.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: io_bg on June 14, 2010, 12:12:43 PM
Great update, Alex &apls The Tuleps look fantastic!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: j-dub on June 14, 2010, 12:38:01 PM
I like how traffic signals are not default in that setup, too bad we can't have TuLEPs that can both engage and disengage traffic signal appearance, depending on rotation. Then again, maybe a signal would of prevented that auto accident down there, because it looks like it takes forever to cross 5 lanes of traffic here and deal with pedestrians, no thanks to the new enforced ped laws in the US. I mean that guy looks like he is just standing down there and not even moving across the road.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: bakerton on June 14, 2010, 03:18:50 PM
Alex, ORDOT looks just like TDOT. To me TDOT people are nodoubt ORDOTpeople. Otherwise, wonderful update and Oregon Republic looks like a nice place to visit. What are the passport requirements if any? (LOL). Looking forward to more. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: EDGE4194 on June 19, 2010, 04:20:18 AM
alex- another great update with a little bit of everything thrown in. Also a great "tutorial" on using the new new network items.  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Bobbi on June 20, 2010, 04:03:52 AM
Great update, Alex! And TuLEP is so great! :thumbsup:

Renne
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Speedbump Joey on June 20, 2010, 08:21:15 PM
Tarkus,

I have spent the past week and a half, hours on end reading each one of your updates. I am a huge transit/road fan/geek. I work as a delivery driver currently, and there have been times where I drive by road projects here in Dallas/Ft. Worth, and I feel like I am seeing a mirror image of your fantastic work in this beautiful game. You have really inspired me to install SC4 on my new computer (when I get it, and it's not soon enough!). I realized the other day that I already have doodled out some plans for cities and what not. Just wanted to say that you have done fantastic work and that you are an amazing storyteller.

Regards,

Joseph
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: TmiguelT on June 22, 2010, 04:56:53 PM
Alex... I'm Speechless  :o .....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: doorknob60 on June 23, 2010, 08:04:08 PM
Being a fellow Oregonian, I love Chemeketa :) Great work :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on June 24, 2010, 07:24:35 PM
Nice update as always  :thumbsup: The Oregon Republic eh?  Oh no you didn't wait intill i roll out the United Northeastern Republic.  How come you didn't name it the Cascade Republic?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: Jmouse on June 28, 2010, 08:28:27 PM
As I study the larger map, I have to compliment you on the way the north/south crossroads over and under Hebo Hwy (36) are laid out.  Looks like there's adequate access without undue disturbance to the nearby neighborhoods.

The interchange
at Hwys 36 and 15 is an amazing feat of engineering, and I've saved some of your photos for further study. Once again, I see maximum access with minimum impact on the surroundings.

I'm eager to try my hand at building some expressways using your work as an example. Watching how your network has developed is very enlightening – you've managed to make sense out of an otherwise complex and rather mysterious process.

Excellent update...
:)
Joan



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 62--6/10/2010--Chemeketa: A Look Around)
Post by: nedalezz on July 08, 2010, 11:33:23 PM
Wow what a great update! I dont think I have ever seen anything like the interchange you have done replicated in SimCity - simply outstanding.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: Tarkus on July 17, 2010, 02:45:59 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . we'll again be returning to Chemeketa to look at a series of roadway improvements being undertaken jointly by ORDOT and the cities of Chemeketa and Vivien Heights, which has been dubbed the Wallace Corridor Project.

But first, replies:

In progress . . .

Now onto construction:



(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg641.imageshack.us%2Fimg641%2F1671%2Fwallacecorridorlogo.png&hash=f3e3a293473ffd9096001581b7601e6bb7e50e91)

The Wallace Corridor Project is a joint venture between ORDOT, the City of Chemeketa and the City of Vivien Heights, streamlining a series of five smaller projects that are designed to improve traffic flow in the vicinity of the two cities' respective downtown cores.  The Wallace Corridor consists of Wallace Road, Halvorson Road, and a short stretch of Highway 36.

Wallace Road is a major north-south thoroughfare, which connects downtown Chemeketa to downtown Vivien Heights with a bridge across the Willamette River.  It is currently a two-lane road between Vivien Heights and its southern terminus at River Road SW in Chemeketa.  With development occurring rapidly in Vivien Heights and in the Radio Hill area on the south side of Chemeketa, it will quickly become obsolescent.  Additionally, its interchange with Highway 36 (Exit 69A) only has ramps to and from the east side, requiring traffic going between points west and Vivien Heights/southwestern Chemeketa to use the Commerce/Division Street exit (Exit 69B) and take a circuitous route along downtown streets.

Wallace also forms the half of a pair of offset T-intersections along River Road, with Halvorson Road serving as the other.  As Halvorson Road is also suffering from significant congestion, the current configuration is causing issues with traffic flow on River Road as well.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F1%2Fu63projectareamaptop.png&hash=c5cd3c00986905cae7939676d653cdd35e91bf85)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg85.imageshack.us%2Fimg85%2F825%2Fu63projectareamapmid.png&hash=f2f5fe191c9edf9c1636c29022a579624f545ab2)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg51.imageshack.us%2Fimg51%2F6687%2Fu63projectareamapbot.png&hash=16f32f1408df51471dd72274ddcf93f24c3db886)


The improvements being undertaken as part of the Wallace Corridor consists of the following:
A. Reconfigure the Highway 36 interchange with Commerce Street/Division Street (Highway 219) to allow for a full diamond interchange with Wallace Road while minimizing weaving.
B. Replace Wallace Road bridge over the Willamette with a new 4-lane structure.
C. Widen Wallace Road to 4 through travel lanes between the bridge and River Road, with center turn lanes or landscaping in the medians as appropriate, replacing overpass over Highway 36
D. Realign Wallace Road on the south end, so as to form a 4-way intersection with River Road and Halvorson Road
E. Widen Halvorson Road to 5 lanes (4 through travel lanes with a center turn lane) between the reconfigured River Road intersection and 35th Street SW (south of the map boundary).

The project oversight committee, consisting of ORDOT, Chemeketa and Vivien Heights engineering staff, contractors, and key stakeholders decided to work on these improvements on a south-to-north geographic basis, beginning with subprojects C, D and E, which will provide the most immediate improvement and are less intensive.

This is a look at the current pair of offset T-intersections along River Road SW, looking north.  The one on top is Wallace Road, the one on the bottom is Halvorson Road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F4080%2Fu631.jpg&hash=1916db12c8c031e717af7a7557a463489198fb7f)

This is Halvorson Road SW in the Radio Hill neighborhood, looking south.  The main intersection there is 35th Street SW, the southern boundary of subproject E, with Radio Hill Elementary School located at the southeast corner.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg541.imageshack.us%2Fimg541%2F7340%2Fu632.jpg&hash=171996e6ed0a48c16e57963c2681be67446d91e8)

Halvorson Road at 31st Street SW, looking south, with construction already beginning. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg441.imageshack.us%2Fimg441%2F82%2Fu633.jpg&hash=330f1c16672aa9c8dbe806daa71a88c093188423)

The intersection of River and Halvorson, looking north, after construction has begun.  You can see the initial work on the Wallace realignment here, which will most likely take out a few homes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg180.imageshack.us%2Fimg180%2F5812%2Fu634.jpg&hash=5160cfb3af2f543d4a8cbdcfb39171c609a1e227)

Halvorson just south of the River Road intersection, looking north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg267.imageshack.us%2Fimg267%2F5940%2Fu635.jpg&hash=538e81e8e7292fe769a608f825ea7da498cc7980)

The north end of the curve on Wallace Road, facing north.  The current alignment of Wallace Road, which has existed since it was first constructed in 1958, was chosen as it was cheaper than leveling part of the ridge bounding the curve and traffic volumes did not merit spending a lot of money.  Today, that is no longer the case, and construction crews are beginning the process of altering the topography to make way for the new alignment.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg42.imageshack.us%2Fimg42%2F5781%2Fu636.jpg&hash=0d2cd194d69a3ed9c227c8d6a4dd2f23af584ae4)

Traffic has been partially diverted onto sections of the new Halvorson roadway that has been completed, facing north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F5384%2Fu637.jpg&hash=9a00f803176facabde9863948573e81cac9ae695)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg62.imageshack.us%2Fimg62%2F6045%2Fu638.jpg&hash=b21992a2f42bfddf233601abaec106b3efee0cfc)

Halvorson Road at River Road, now widened to 5 lanes and with part of the new Wallace Road alignment in place, facing north.  While it looks complete here, as you'll see, there's still a fair bit of work to do to the north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg204.imageshack.us%2Fimg204%2F9959%2Fu639.jpg&hash=bd1193a563887b1838cb86f35573fb87b4369d29)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg594.imageshack.us%2Fimg594%2F6920%2Fu6310.jpg&hash=912dec711d6f7ecce1262feef56bf5e224d4fb5b)

Old meets new.  A few images of the excavation being done for the new Wallace alignment, while the old one continues to operate, facing south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg146.imageshack.us%2Fimg146%2F5604%2Fu6311.jpg&hash=155d8529286cdd86a6e67f7e5f39d9099dc6687d)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg685.imageshack.us%2Fimg685%2F351%2Fu6312.jpg&hash=e1f991ae818cd49b273407d71fb1d2d6815b8552)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg96.imageshack.us%2Fimg96%2F8315%2Fu6313.jpg&hash=a8c9ec224030a804fd2884da8003ad0aa3c5e92e)

The old alignment has now been disconnected from River Road, facing south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg534.imageshack.us%2Fimg534%2F1288%2Fu6314.jpg&hash=40458e9db1cb9d677653b280cb191957fa1c5db2)

The old curve to the north has now been disconnected as well, facing south.  Wallace Road has been closed for a short while the new alignment gets connected into the old.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F8963%2Fu6315.jpg&hash=ddfaa1e5100cf9aa54c14e3e6e306dffce9aa8b6)

The existing Wallace Road interchange (Exit 69A) with Highway 36, and the new widened roadway toward the top, facing south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg682.imageshack.us%2Fimg682%2F7203%2Fu6316.jpg&hash=5a82a6d2c76136df2623ad1823d9710ff140e923)

Construction begins on the interchange, facing south.  The overpass will be demolished as part of the project, and the interchange closed for 3 months.  You may notice there has been some new development just south of the interchange as well.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg153.imageshack.us%2Fimg153%2F8818%2Fu6317.jpg&hash=707187b355d5b6b3953f9a0f36999ac9dcf93b9a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg293.imageshack.us%2Fimg293%2F1064%2Fu6318.jpg&hash=4452193ae3cd1a3407342497e002c888c68d60f4)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg138.imageshack.us%2Fimg138%2F637%2Fu6319.jpg&hash=741dda070b057e33ee46b95206d6eaa55807cdc3)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg191.imageshack.us%2Fimg191%2F6159%2Fu6320.jpg&hash=00f57a12a914865a2e1ac493c5636fe9418a561e)

That does it for this construction update.  Subprojects D and E are now done, and we'll finish up C and take a look at A and B next update.  After that, we'll travel to the north side of town, where a number of very large projects are in the works.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: CoastRunner on July 17, 2010, 03:17:42 PM
Wow, this is amazing!!  Superb work on the dirt, roadworks, suburbs, and I especially like the way you planned it out on the map and in writing, too.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: Speedbump Joey on July 18, 2010, 02:51:40 PM
Superb!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: wallasey on July 18, 2010, 03:25:53 PM
A commendable update! The mapwork as always informative and easy to use.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: RickD on July 19, 2010, 12:51:55 AM
Awesome update and what a cliffhanger. I'm dying to see how you build the interchanges.  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: superhands on July 19, 2010, 01:14:09 AM
like the graphics very much so :thumbsup: excellent modifications to the existing road layouts Alex.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: darraghf on July 19, 2010, 01:47:02 AM
I always love it when the time of the month comes around that you update your MD. I always love seeing the progress of your neverending Highway projects. Well done!

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: EDGE4194 on July 20, 2010, 07:29:28 AM
alex- enjoyed the update. As usual- i love studying your incredible maps before seeing the pics of the various projects. I bet that silver high rise was quite the controversy being built right next to that quiet neighborhood!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: bakerton on July 20, 2010, 07:53:25 AM
Well Alex, I enjoyed this lastest update and I am awe struck at your construction methods. ORDOT is doing a great job sofar. See ya next time JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: canyonjumper on July 20, 2010, 11:53:21 AM
Great update Alex! Well done ;D

             Your friend,
                            Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: Jmouse on July 26, 2010, 08:34:23 PM
One of your best updates ever, Alex, and very clearly explained to be such a complex project. It all started coming together when I saw the first photo of the five-lane. Too bad about the loss of homes, but it's easy to see the project was necessary.

I like the way you've presented the Wallace alignment (seventh photo). I've never seen this kind of thing in any other MD, and I'm not really sure what to call it! I see overpasses used as feeder roads intersecting highway overpasses (fourth photo from the last).

And the details are extraordinary. There are barriers in places where barriers would naturally be placed in a RL situation such as this. The construction equipment is well placed, too, and there are sound barriers where one would expect them to be. The only "unrealistic" thing I see is the neatness of your work. RL DOT construction sites usually look like a category three tornado just blew through! :D

I returned from a road trip a couple of weeks ago - we traveled from north-east Arkansas to west-central Oklahoma. During that six-hour journey, I amused myself by guessing how the roads must have been built. This is all thanks to my growing interest in your educational construction projects!

There are no "rocky mountains" along the way,
of course, but some rather high rolling hills. For all the world, though, it looks like the DOT must have used a small army of bulldozers to destroy everything in their path to create a straight and level road bed. The only reason I can think of is the expense -a straight, level road is cheaper to build.

Outstanding update this time
which has left me eager to see what will come next. :)

Later...
Joan



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 63--7/17/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Project)
Post by: citybuilderx on July 27, 2010, 10:44:03 AM
Great update as ever. I love your use of construction lots.

Q: Have you considered using road signs? I think it would make your pictures more realistic.

Keep up the great work.

~~Nick
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor, Pt. 2)
Post by: Tarkus on October 04, 2010, 12:44:51 PM
Well, I'm finally back with more Tarkusian Cities.  We'll be returning to the Wallace Corridor Project to look at the upgrades to the Wallace Road interchange with Highway 36 just west of downtown Chemeketa, and the new Wallace Road bridge over the Willamette River--subprojects A, B and C on the map.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg641.imageshack.us%2Fimg641%2F1671%2Fwallacecorridorlogo.png&hash=f3e3a293473ffd9096001581b7601e6bb7e50e91)


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F1%2Fu63projectareamaptop.png&hash=c5cd3c00986905cae7939676d653cdd35e91bf85)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg85.imageshack.us%2Fimg85%2F825%2Fu63projectareamapmid.png&hash=f2f5fe191c9edf9c1636c29022a579624f545ab2)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg51.imageshack.us%2Fimg51%2F6687%2Fu63projectareamapbot.png&hash=16f32f1408df51471dd72274ddcf93f24c3db886)

When we left off last time, Wallace Road's overpass at Highway 36 had just bit the wrecking ball.  Here, you can see things have progressed a little further.  The groundwork is being laid for a sort of mini-Collector/Distributor lane system for Highway 36 eastbound. (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F7910%2Fu641.jpg&hash=707b268606ee3fce1f0095374e71e7e8c7588e00)

Meanwhile, while that's being done, the overpass is being continued across the freeway. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg541.imageshack.us%2Fimg541%2F3446%2Fu642.jpg&hash=744efbc46bfbf4def6f0dfa90934dfb01b5af116)

This is on the other side of the interchange, heading toward downtown.  More Collector/Distributor work going on (facing east), with work on an elevated section.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg822.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F1267%2Fu643.jpg&hash=b648a26943ec4f3fa890194ddc7101446fee2f11)

Retaining walls and landscaping starting to take shape on the newly widened stretch of Wallace, now all connected to the overpass. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg684.imageshack.us%2Fimg684%2F9008%2Fu644.jpg&hash=b68bacc003b84b768451d81862ef3e0b27a02b3c)

This is across the river near Downtown Vivien Heights.  The bridge toward the top of the image is the existing Wallace Road bridge--as you can see, it's a mere 2 lane structure.  That crane there is in place to build a temporary bridge one block to the west, lining up with Smith Street (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg94.imageshack.us%2Fimg94%2F2958%2Fu645.jpg&hash=494131bad685bea47af71e7e901567e1e0e0f9c3)

The temporary Smith Street span is in place. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg834.imageshack.us%2Fimg834%2F7315%2Fu646.jpg&hash=e90408a7cef3f74c257aa2e90405fbc5442ea443)

The existing Wallace Road span has been demolished to make way for a new 4-lane structure, matching the width of the improved segment of Wallace Road south of the river. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg522.imageshack.us%2Fimg522%2F8845%2Fu647.jpg&hash=ff289939371ad3f328a300a054338ef2ce554699)

Various work involving rebuilding Exit 69B (Downtown via the Commerce/Division Street couplet).  The ramps are being lengthened and realigned to accommodate the new C/D setup from the Wallace Road project to the west (facing east).  As you can see, Downtown Chemeketa's really grown quite a bit.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg841.imageshack.us%2Fimg841%2F3565%2Fu648.jpg&hash=abff5c3e80cd18fd406e5c039aa280d860342a5c)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg64.imageshack.us%2Fimg64%2F267%2Fu649.jpg&hash=2a48472f4feb3922e9c765e5f0fea7008b98f340)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg693.imageshack.us%2Fimg693%2F2493%2Fu6410.jpg&hash=df32bbf4b737fceef806fc77de8d532ef4ed2775)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg148.imageshack.us%2Fimg148%2F5476%2Fu6411.jpg&hash=e3fe605e5ad1eb7d618748b240f05d2818ebc8f7)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F3433%2Fu6412.jpg&hash=595c7cdc51d307bf096662eff1034474efd58bbf)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg214.imageshack.us%2Fimg214%2F3292%2Fu6413.jpg&hash=711adfbcc5fa6f1a93cabf2786de7c7f87c38e90)

Back to check on Exit 69A--the Wallace Road interchange.  The new mini C/D setup is in place for eastbound Highway 36, allowing for a) traffic heading to downtown to bypass the Wallace Road exit, b) allowing Wallace Road traffic to enter the freeway without weaving, c) allowing Wallace Road traffic to access the downtown exit without having to get on the mainline of the freeway.  This segment here is just east of the Wallace Road interchange. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg830.imageshack.us%2Fimg830%2F9351%2Fu6414.jpg&hash=3c77b03c8e3d4fe62923ea0b37e9565992512895)

The new interchange is open for traffic now. (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg210.imageshack.us%2Fimg210%2F1551%2Fu6415.jpg&hash=6cf0434b2423a88fe83a9c3c7cb8349a38261c17)

Another angle of the improved interchange.  A sound wall was put on the south side to minimize disruption to the residential area there. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg185.imageshack.us%2Fimg185%2F8642%2Fu6416.jpg&hash=fb9be3754b7807dd39b7fd92e8e9a5954a662c18)

The new Wallace Road bridge, in place. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg202.imageshack.us%2Fimg202%2F4813%2Fu6417.jpg&hash=d2d939a615ec3c62940b314b248427aee711dca4)

The west side of the Wallace Road interchange, after completion. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg714.imageshack.us%2Fimg714%2F7621%2Fu6418.jpg&hash=f1d01d25b01cafb5f94b53436f717b04b9b0de8c)


That does it for this part of the project.  We'll be looking at Subproject E, the Halvorson Road widening, as part of the next update, and some additional work on Subprojects A and C after that. 

My apologies about the lack of replies lately as well--I'm looking to do a 3RR-style "We've Got Mail" type thing sometime between now and the next update, as some of you have asked some very interesting questions that I'd like to answer.  Thank you for all your kind words, encouragement and support through the (very) intermittent nature of things here--we're almost to 100k views now as well.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: RickD on October 05, 2010, 08:23:02 AM
Nice to see another update. I like the mini-C/D concept at the new interchange and your maps are always great.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: Jayster on October 05, 2010, 09:28:13 PM
Very nice. Interesting form to your updates, I like it a lot!  :thumbsup:

Jayster
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: Haljackey on October 05, 2010, 09:58:38 PM
Whoa! This MD has woke up from a deep sleep!

Topic: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)  (Read 100083 times)
:o

Holy crap! Congrats on hitting 100k Alex!  :thumbsup:




Now on to your update... That's a lot of highway construction, but coming from you, that's the norm. I guess I'm just not as accustomed to seeing these massive reworks because you only see them at this scale in your MD.  :P The update looks really good, especially your grading and bridgework. As always, your map helps to show us where these upgrades are taking place.

Great to see you back man! I look forward to seeing more!  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: mightygoose on October 09, 2010, 05:52:06 AM
great update, nice to see what the latest nam can do. what is with the white texture bordering on the rhw2 curves....?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: Jmouse on October 09, 2010, 10:17:33 PM
Very impressive aggregation of projects you have here. The overpasses are always favorites, but it must have taken an enormous bond issue to pay for all the work.

I find it interesting to study the entrance and exit ramps, and there are plenty to see. Some are so complex, though, I can't help but wonder how easy - or difficult - it would be to navigate them in RL. Will these interchanges be used by motorists just passing through?

Once again, you've outdone yourself  on this excellent update, Alex!

Joan


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: canyonjumper on October 15, 2010, 06:54:25 PM
Awesome update Alex!

               Your friend,
                              Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: bat on October 17, 2010, 09:33:51 AM
It's great to see a new update here!
And the pictures are nice ones. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: art128 on October 31, 2010, 07:21:21 AM
A fantastic update Alex ! I love watching the constructions of the city step by step, you've done a nice job with the RHW.
Can't wait for more !

-Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: Nego on November 27, 2010, 08:45:13 PM
Nice update, Tarkus! The construction seems to be coming along really nicely. I can't wait for the next update! Keep up all of the great work! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: Battlecat on November 29, 2010, 09:06:31 AM
Great to see you're back at it!  Yet another fantastic update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: calibanX on December 03, 2010, 11:59:34 PM
Nice update you have here. Good to see you back. I love the map!

Geoff
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: penguin007 on December 04, 2010, 10:18:35 AM
Awesome work as always your road networks always provide a wealth of inspiration

Will
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: noahclem on December 04, 2010, 11:42:29 AM
Nice update again! Not sure how I missed it back in October  &mmm

The C/D setup came together really nice  &apls  I've been pondering somewhat similar setups in some areas since I hate weaving hazards and would like more ramps in really dense areas. As always I enjoy the step-by-step methodology of the progress in your updates. I'll look forward to more  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 64--10/4/2010--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 2)
Post by: sebes on January 28, 2011, 04:53:49 AM
Had great pleasure in watching some pages of Tarkusian art again today!!   

Although I miss some of the good old "drunk engineers" intersection bottlenecks in the makeovers  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: Tarkus on February 10, 2011, 01:03:01 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, after a nearly 4 month hiatus, Tarkusian Cities is at least temporarily back in action with the first update of 2011.  I don't know how regularly I'll be able to really update things after this--that'll largely depend on RL and how things are going on my various transit modding projects.  But I've undertaken quite a few "construction" projects in Chemeketa that I haven't shown yet, and some of which dovetail nicely with some of the new stuff we're developing on the NAM Team, so I felt it was time to finally bring some activity back here.

First off, I'm going to get to a few long-overdue replies.

RickD:  Thanks, I'm glad you found the mini-C/D to your liking!  I've been finding that sort of setup actually squeaks into a denser area pretty well, and I have a larger scale one that will make an appearance in a later update.

Jayster: Thanks for the kind words--the form my updates have taken is actually something that just kind of happened by accident, believe it or not. :D  But I've kept with it, as it allows for the creation of "storylines" that are very directly oriented to the game, and it fits with the very transport-centric (and road-centric in specific) way I play the game.

Haljackey:  Yes, and it's awoken for an even deeper sleep this time.  This MD's a regular Rip Van Winkle, I suppose. :D  Thanks for the congrats on 100k and the compliments on the construction!  It's kind of funny, a lot of times, when putting together updates, I actually ask myself, "have I done enough construction for this update?". 

mightygoose: Thanks for the kind words--and the white bordering is the result of Magnification/Minification Filter and Wrapping-type issues on the S3Ds on the puzzle piece tiles.  It's been fixed now, fortunately.  And for anyone wanting to avoid that issue in their own content, a little helpful tip--set the Magnification and Minification to "Bilinear", and Wrapping to "Clamb" (which is really supposed to be "Clamp"--and is if you're using one of the Reader 1.x) releases.  I've been going through and adjusting many of the RHW S3Ds over to that setting during the course of development on Version 4.2, though it's a long and tedious process.

Joan (Jmouse): Thanks for the compliments on the update and the interchange work!  Yeah, it was a pretty pricey project, but fortunately, ORDOT has a fair bit of funding to throw around, and the property taxes and Traffic Impact Fees off of all those skyscrapers downtown really raked in the revenue, too.  That particular interchange will likely get some use by passing-through motorists, as it accesses "the main drag" through downtown Chemeketa (the Division/Commerce couplet) as well as "the main drag" through Vivien Heights (Wallace Road).  However, it's largely been designed such that the surface street-to-freeway movements are more direct than the surface street-to-surface street connections, meaning that locals are the primary users of the more complicated movements through there.

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it! :)

bat: Thank you for the kind words--I'm glad the update was to your liking!

Arthur (art128): Thanks, I'm pleased to hear that you enjoyed the construction and liked the RHW usage--plenty more of that sort of thing to come in future updates. :)

Nego: Thanks for the compliments on the construction--and the next update is finally here!

Battlecat: Thank you for the compliments--I'm thrilled to hear you enjoyed the update, and congratulations on making it into the Hall of Fame!  It's great to have another fantastic road-oriented MD in the ranks here. :thumbsup:

Geoff (calibanX): Thanks for the kind words--I'm particularly glad to hear you enjoyed the map, and I hope you enjoy this latest update!

Will (penguin007): I'm glad I could provide inspiration on the road network side of things--thank you for the all-too-kind words!

Noah (noahclem): Thanks!  I kind of slipped in under the radar, I suppose. ::)  I'm glad to hear you like the C/D setup--I've really found them to be quite useful in areas where you need a lot of access to freeways, though they do require a fair bit of planning in advance.  I'll have another one to show in a future update that is of at least equal complexity.

sebes: Thank you for the kind words, my friend!  Glad you enjoyed reading through the latest developments here, and yeah, the old "drunk engineers" updates really bring back some good memories.  Good memories of fixing those roadways, and laughing at how off-the-wall some of my old pre-slope-mod setups were. :D  I've still got Argentum around--may have to do an "Argentum Re-revisited" series one of these days. ::)




Now onto the update itself.  We'll be looking at one of the final pieces of the Wallace Corridor Project--the Halvorson Road widening in South Chemeketa, marked as segment "E" on the good ol' project map. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F1%2Fu63projectareamaptop.png&hash=c5cd3c00986905cae7939676d653cdd35e91bf85)

This will be a little bit smaller update to get back in the swing of things here.

Well, back for more on the Wallace Corridor Project--this time, we'll be taking a very brief look at the Halvorson Road widening project on the south end of the project bounds, marked "E" on the project map.

This is a fairly straightforward widening project, and will involve widening Halvorson from the Wallace/River Road intersection, to just south of 35th Avenue SW.  The existing roadway consists of 2 travel lanes, and will consist of 4 travel lanes plus a center turn lane upon completion.  Existing development left enough right-of-way (ROW) to allow this project to be constructed with minimal impact on surrounding development (primarily residential neighborhoods).  Additional funding has also been acquired to widen a short stretch of Halvorson south of the project bounds to accommodate a 2-lane facility with a landscaped median.

This is at the intersection with 31st Avenue (facing south).  As you can see, a temporary roadway corresponding to the width of the future roadway has been constructed, with traffic shifted onto it in parts, and the old roadway has been ground down to allow for reinforcement of the road base.  Access to nearby neighborhoods has been maintained during construction, though it involves braving a little bit of gravel.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F236%2Fu651.jpg&hash=939607dab9d4bd7d4d7d7ab49c0a46a3d15c5032)

A little farther north, at the 29th Avenue intersection. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F4953%2Fu652.jpg&hash=4d5c4793e03a47537d482ee006a624f4c86a8c5b)

Fresh pavement is being applied over the old roadway. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F636%2Fu653.jpg&hash=bb8f330e70876ed7ae63cd449e73a8cdfb6786d6)

The finished roadway is in place on the south side of 35th Avenue. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F4383%2Fu654p.jpg&hash=bfb13c981c3344e5f83dffbe50a7befbd5396522)

The 31st Avenue intersection after construction. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg12.imageshack.us%2Fimg12%2F2060%2Fu655.jpg&hash=36ea169cdb721ec3eb35619d7dd24b953bed7d5b)

At 29th Avenue, after construction. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F7307%2Fu656.jpg&hash=82551b029e6631cfc0da2e08fd9e427663cd80eb)

The "added" section south of the previous project bounds has been widened to its new width.  More in the way of "proper" landscaping will be added later.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg717.imageshack.us%2Fimg717%2F7759%2Fu657.jpg&hash=451d16424d2b25d78d1889fe189d11e3cebe49fd)

Well, with the Wallace Corridor project mostly out of the way, "what's next?", you may be asking.  Well, we'll be headed up to North Chemeketa to finally tackle "Dangerous Intersection #1" as mentioned in Update 62--Highway 219 at 52nd Avenue--amongst other projects in that area.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg689.imageshack.us%2Fimg689%2F8018%2Fu6218.jpg&hash=5293bc64debe2e65c708c0873dbe6512d853f291)

I won't entirely give away what all will be happening with it yet, other than to say it'll be getting a very dramatic facelift that will tie into some longer-term regional plans for the roadway system in the Chemeketa Metro Area.

One last detail before I conclude this latest update . . . a lingering question asked by our friend Nick (citybuilderx):

Quote from: citybuilderx on July 27, 2010, 10:44:03 AM
Have you considered using road signs? I think it would make your pictures more realistic.

Argentum, back in the day--shortly after I just discovered custom content in early-2006, was signed to the hilt, with all custom stuff made using the old "GHDSP" set released by artforce1.  I've got some images somewhere, though they're pretty primitive compared to the signage standards of today.  Had just about everything signed up, but the signs quickly went out of date due to my frequent tearing up of the entire roadway system in that region. :D  I've intermittently played around with signage since then--you've probably noticed my Oregon-style speed limit signs in many updates, applied with the rough alpha of the old Signage Piece Mod (which is still in snail's pace development and has gotten a new name).  I got the bug to start playing around with what roadgeeks call "BGSes" ("big green signs"--self-explanatory name :D) again, and started playing around with some of the newer pre-made gantry sets over on the STEX, but wasn't really satisfied with the results.  So I took matters into my own hands.  I actually had built up an Inkscape-based "template" of sorts awhile back for signmaking purposes, so I whipped that together along with a new gantry I BATed myself (based on what the RL ODOT uses) and churned this out last night:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg600.imageshack.us%2Fimg600%2F8910%2Fu65sign.jpg&hash=e583b0cd56cf3ac07504866ef42f83c4831395c2)

A bit rough perhaps, but I thought I'd share it here to see what Tarkusian Cities readers thought, since they may end up in future updates.  (I did that "exit gore" sign in the background awhile back as well . . . they're basically "Frankenstein" models I pieced out of the GHDSP--the scale is way off on them.  $%Grinno$%)

Anyways, thank you for all your support, my apologies for the lack of updates over the past few months, and I hope you enjoyed this long overdue installment!

Also, a congratulatory shoutout to Battlecat and Yan077 on making the SC4D Mayor's Diary Hall of Fame, with their MDs Adara (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=6976.0) and Corsica (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=7846.0)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: bat on February 11, 2011, 12:54:32 AM
The roadmap looks great!
Also fantastic new update there!
Looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: JoeST on February 11, 2011, 02:22:06 AM
Fantastic, glad to see you back :D

and yay to sideprojects like signs  ::)

Joe
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: RickD on February 11, 2011, 02:31:21 AM
I already have several ideas how I would rebuild "Dangerous Intersection #1". I am sure you will come up with something really awesome. Maybe including some unreleased stuff?  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: penguin007 on February 11, 2011, 11:04:55 AM
Nice update as usual can't wait to see more development!!

Will
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 65--2/10/2011--Chemeketa: Wallace Corridor Pt. 3)
Post by: Ramona Brie on February 11, 2011, 02:15:14 PM
Nice work, Tarkus. May I ask where those blue-roofed homes came from? I need more homes to fit on 1x3 style lots because I often see the 2x3s gobbled up quicker...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: Tarkus on February 13, 2011, 03:41:26 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, in true NAMite spirit, I have a surprise--the second update this week. :thumbsup:

But first, replies:

bat: Thanks, my friend--I'm glad you enjoyed the update and the map!

JoeST: Thanks--it's good to be back. :)  And things are going full steam ahead with the sideproject, of which you'll see some progress in coming updates.

Raphael (RickD):  Thanks for stopping in!  And yes, there will be at least a little unreleased stuff showcased as part of the Highway 219/52nd Avenue project--not what one might expect, either.

Will (penguin007: Thanks for the kind words--I'm sure your wish will be fulfilled here. :)

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it!  To answer your question, that's Mattb325's Melrose (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=2231).  There's two versions included, one with the blue roof.




Well, this is going to be a small update, and doesn't include any construction.  Instead, we'll be looking at the finished result of some of the upgrades to Highway 36 through downtown as part of the Wallace Corridor Project, in the form of a mosaic.  The thumbnail links to the full resolution version, which is almost as wide as it is high. (Yay 1366px screen!)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg708.imageshack.us%2Fimg708%2F323%2Fu66mosaic600height.jpg&hash=d1a785004b93e78b59eecb60b3ea00380d36a52f) (http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4711/u66mosaicfullres.jpg)

Hope you enjoy it!  We'll be putting on the hard hats again next update, and heading up to North Chemeketa.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: Ryan B. on February 13, 2011, 08:04:13 PM
Great mosaic, Alex!  The way the highway is surrounded by skyscrapers sort of reminds me of Dubai.  I don't know if that's quite what you were going for, but it's striking nonetheless.

I've got my hard hat and am ready to head north!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: bat on February 14, 2011, 02:18:14 AM
Fantastic looking mosaic!!!! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: noahclem on February 14, 2011, 03:09:25 AM
A surprise indeed! Glad to see activity in Chemeketa again  :thumbsup:

The Halvorson/Wallace widening project worked out well and I like the view of downtown with the C/D system. I'm curious to see your solution to the problem intersection and look forward to some development dovetailing ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: Battlecat on February 14, 2011, 11:27:59 AM
Well it's great to see you're back in business here!  That large image looks great, although a bit blurry at full zoom.  Doesn't take away from the great character your downtown area is developing though. 

Thanks for the kind welcome as well!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 66--2/13/2011--Chemeketa: Downtown/Hwy 36 Mosaic)
Post by: Nego on February 14, 2011, 12:29:46 PM
Nice updates, Tarkus! &apls Highway 36 is looking great and so is the rest of the construction. A suggestion for your future highway signs: Use cylinders instead of rectangular prisms in the BAT. It looks a lot nicer. ;) Can't wait for the next update! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on February 16, 2011, 05:31:06 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back for a third update this week . . . and we'll finally be getting down and dirty with a new construction project. 

But first, replies:

Ryan B:  Thanks for the compliments on the mosaic! :)  I can see the Dubai connection there . . . there's some very modernistic aspects to it, definitely.  There's also some very "Haljackian" aspects to it as well.  And I'm glad you've got your hard hat all ready to go!

bat: Thanks, my friend--I'm glad you enjoyed the mosaic!

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the welcome back!  It's good to have Chemeketa up and going again.  I'm glad you liked the C/D system and I hope you find the problem intersection fix interesting. :)

Battlecat: Thanks--it's good to be back!  And thanks for the kind words on the downtown and the constructive feedback on the mosaic--I'll have to look into my JPG export settings. 

Nego: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the updates and the construction!  Thanks for the suggestion as well . . . I had debated on going with cylinders on the model, but I ended up going with a square design based on my inspiration (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=I-5+Tigard&oe=utf-8&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=Interstate+5,+Tigard,+OR&gl=us&ei=YFdcTfDsMYzEsAPP7cWDAg&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=title&resnum=1&ved=0CBMQ8gEwAA).  That being said, I'd like to experiment around with that now. :)




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg607.imageshack.us%2Fimg607%2F9853%2Fnortherncrossinglogo.png&hash=21240e359e0d1315414fcb069a785405c3eaa6ef)

The Northern Crossing Project consists of a series of major safety and capacity improvements centering around the vicinity of 52nd Avenue and Highway 219 in the northern section of Chemeketa, including the 52nd Avenue Bridge, over which Highway 221 crosses the Willamette River between Chemeketa and Vivien Heights.  The rough vicinity of the project bounds is shown on the map below:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

With the explosive residential and high-tech sector growth in the region, the existing roadways are no longer adequate, with the signalized intersection at Highway 219/52nd Avenue being a primary chokepoint and safety hazard.  Statistics show that this intersection is currently the most dangerous in the entire Chemeketa Metro Area, operating at Level of Service F, with a Volume/Capacity (v/c) ratio of 1.06, failing to meet ORDOT standards.

The Chemeketa Metro Area Regional Transport (CMART) Plan, undertaken by the City of Chemeketa, with assistance from consultant VH1M Krill, includes a new expressway-grade roadway connecting Downtown and North Chemeketa up with Highway 15, the tentatively named Chemeketa Parkway.  Further studies and citizen involvement have shown that the most optimal routing of this new roadway uses a portion of the existing alignment of Highway 219, roughly between 33rd Avenue NE and 59th Avenue NE.  As the Northern Crossing Project area overlaps with this segment, a portion of the Chemeketa Parkway will be constructed as well during this project.

In this update, we'll be looking at the replacement of the 52nd Avenue Bridge and the start of work on the 52nd/Hwy 219 intersection.

Here's the infamous intersection, in all its substandard glory (facing south):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg696.imageshack.us%2Fimg696%2F4439%2Fu671.jpg&hash=754bb822addf0d70ec46883412cf1561dc371734)

This is along Highway 219, as Chemeketa Parkway work begins (facing south):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg696.imageshack.us%2Fimg696%2F6530%2Fu672.jpg&hash=d9d07131fa921fdae62f60e1d48f0c3f53e47042)

Here's the intersection with some construction activity right now (facing south).  You should be able to get some idea of just what the improvements will entail from this view.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg138.imageshack.us%2Fimg138%2F9620%2Fu674.jpg&hash=a7180bf5bb63e4b0f330da25f940b9d233398572)

Now over to the 52nd Avenue Bridge.  A temporary bridge is going in place here while the new one is built, and traffic is being diverted onto it.  (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg121.imageshack.us%2Fimg121%2F3294%2Fu675.jpg&hash=d2ef3a5f91279dbb1152ba508590cfe42e74ffc2)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg138.imageshack.us%2Fimg138%2F6627%2Fu676.jpg&hash=f296cbf37237453e309570e65a47901257be00f7)

The old bridge is demolished (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg249.imageshack.us%2Fimg249%2F4903%2Fu677.jpg&hash=e23adbbc7b6d0aaee90f99ff3770d8d923bfb2ea)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3730%2Fu678.jpg&hash=f60959fa4e999da2a9e5da8b4fad08b4b98d23bd)

Here's part of the old alignment of 52nd on the Vivien Heights side of the river, next to the temporary alignment and with the ground cleared in between for the new one. (facing south)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg842.imageshack.us%2Fimg842%2F3472%2Fu679.jpg&hash=5b1fc258b049ad6aa559d930a4cfa22e856119b4)

A little peak at the new twin 52nd Avenue bridges, with some tweaking of the connection to the temporary alignment (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F1033%2Fu6711.jpg&hash=53e53a42cd52aacd4a881112552a644f66f47f41)

The new bridge roadway is closer to being connected (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg33.imageshack.us%2Fimg33%2F8258%2Fu6712.jpg&hash=d88e85ed33c8b94fff789c49b4ddb86b11c82e93)

This is back on the west side of the river, where the new alignment is in place . . . and it's elevated. (facing east)  You can see the old alignment and the temporary alignment connection below.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg529.imageshack.us%2Fimg529%2F4832%2Fu6713.jpg&hash=6711060c45f4b6ac0cdd917cce2fca567bbc30d6)

The new elevated RHW section connected into the old Road-based section of 52nd Ave NW, at the intersection with Greenwich Avenue NW, which is also a bit of a chokepoint. (facing east)  We'll see what happens with that next time.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg560.imageshack.us%2Fimg560%2F4263%2Fu6714.jpg&hash=61e8d766e267df53679817660fcb5864544c533c)

A look at the twin bridges (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg72.imageshack.us%2Fimg72%2F7589%2Fu6715.jpg&hash=80bed336a315c94fbd909a467b6425e72426fb7d)

And the twin bridges have been, at least for now, connected into the old intersection (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg265.imageshack.us%2Fimg265%2F1074%2Fu6716.jpg&hash=0f71963701e6696b6637bb250f00206468aa76c8)

We'll see more of the improvements from both sides of the river next update--hope you enjoyed this latest installment.

We're also approaching the big #1100 here very soon--thank you for all your support!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on February 16, 2011, 05:51:15 PM
Ooh la la! The cranes are very nice. Are we going to see a grade separation there soon?

With that in mind, the current RHW-4/Avenue transition does not look good accompanied by those turn lanes. 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: noahclem on February 16, 2011, 06:39:44 PM
Interesting developments! I'm very curious to see how the rest of the freeway alignment will go. Nice bridges, BTW  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: dedgren on February 16, 2011, 07:05:35 PM
Whoa, Alex!  A three-fer!

Stimulus money?  In any event, I'm sure the local residents consider it well-spent.

And TC's 1100th post, coming up in 10...9...8...7...


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: jdenm8 on February 16, 2011, 07:56:32 PM
Hm... I wonder what you're going to use... It looks a considerably too heavily congested for a Diamond... Though the overpass placement is strange...
I wonder...

EDIT: I'm 1100! Woo! Congrats on 1100 Tarkusian Cities Posts!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: bat on February 17, 2011, 06:49:32 AM
Congrats on 1100+ replies. &apls
And this newest update is great!
Very good work. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: Nego on February 17, 2011, 12:53:07 PM
Great update, Tarkus! &apls And congratulations on over 1100 replies! &apls &apls Construction on the new parkway and the new bridges looks great! Can't wait to see what's going to happen next! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: Battlecat on February 18, 2011, 10:18:21 AM
Another great post although it sure looks like traffic is out of control in the area!  Although I suppose that's expected during construction.

Congratulations on 1100+! 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: art128 on February 19, 2011, 04:58:08 AM
1100 replies... already ! Congratulations, Alex ! This update was really nice, can't wait to see more of the road expansion...  ;) :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 67--2/16/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 1)
Post by: Ryan B. on February 19, 2011, 07:23:33 AM
Great update, Alex!  Question:  In studying possible solutions to this traffic crisis, did any of the citizens mention installing dual left-turn lanes at all?  I feel that the addition of dual left turn lanes would possibly help make the intersection a bit safer to navigate - but only as a temporary measure, because I feel that something's up your sleeve.

I really should make you some construction signs, by the way.  Lord knows you'd use 'em.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: Tarkus on February 20, 2011, 07:51:05 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with even more construction from Chemeketa . . . but first, some replies:

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks, and yes, you're on the right track as to what the upgrade entails . . . this update will kind of spill it. ;)  And I concur on the texture front . . . I'm a lot happier with the V5-Spec ones that'll be in the next RHW release.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words--and yes, you spotted the aforementioned "dovetailing" there . . . choco's ERHW-4 bridges.

David (dedgren): Yeah, there was a bit of extra funding coming ORDOT's way . . . they needed a little kickstart beyond their normal gas tax and general fund revenue, as the moratorium on residential construction west of the river there basically ate up any Traffic Impact Fees they'd otherwise get.  The residents seem reasonably happy, especially as the bulldozers are generally trained away from their homes for once. :D   Thanks for stopping by!

jdenm8: Thanks, and congrats to you as well on hitting a double-zero!  You'll be honored "on the map" in some fashion in a coming update. :thumbsup:  The overpass side of things will be revealed this update . . . it might surprise you a bit.

bat: Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Nego: Thanks for the congratulations and the kind words on the parkway--hope this update satisfies your curiosity. :)

Battlecat: Thanks!  And yes, the traffic is quite unbearable around that area . . . and will get to be a little bit more unbearable during construction, but the temporary transportational ickiness will hopefully pay dividends in the long run.

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the congratulations and kind words--you'll definitely be seeing more of the road expansion these next few updates.

Ryan B.: Thanks for the compliments on the update and for the feedback!  A dual-left setup did get a glancing mention--the studies showed it'd improve things slightly on Hwy 219 northbound in the evening peak hour, but the rest of the intersection would still be failing on the whole, and it was deemed cheaper just to go all-out with the existing ROW eventually being used for the Chemeketa Parkway anyway.  And thanks for the offer of construction signs--I most definitely would be putting them to good use!  (Not to mention they'd work great with SCoPE--the re-named Signage Piece Mod, which is slowly working its way out of its waylaid development purgatory.)




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg607.imageshack.us%2Fimg607%2F9853%2Fnortherncrossinglogo.png&hash=21240e359e0d1315414fcb069a785405c3eaa6ef)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

Here's where we left off last time . . . the new twin bridges on 52nd Avenue over the Willamette River are in place, and now work's about to get going on the infamous intersection with Highway 219 (facing east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F4199%2Fu681.jpg&hash=5cb6f25c8ade9941eefb78e02dcdc087b331f0cb)

You can probably tell that there's going to be some grade separation here.  ORDOT has determined that because of the railroad that parallels Highway 219, it would be advisable to elevate 52nd Avenue to eliminate the level crossing.  In order to do so, 52nd will be closed off between Progress Street and Highway 219, for construction of the new overpass. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg828.imageshack.us%2Fimg828%2F7695%2Fu682.jpg&hash=7f5b7fc789d78432449d6ada5e1da79ca49dfe9d)

Before construction, 52nd Avenue had an intersection with Liberty Street, a local residential route just past the railroad crossing (and now, just at the end of the elevated segment of 52nd).  As you can see here, the intersection is closed off, and will in fact be permanently closed, for purposes of access control.  Motorists from the south can use either Justice Street or Progress Street to access 52nd, while those from the north will have to use Progress Street (facing east).  The overpass structure is only being built to an interim standard here, and will be beefed up a bit more toward the end of the project (facing east).  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg684.imageshack.us%2Fimg684%2F46%2Fu684.jpg&hash=438491fd668d0579f2c50ea7f185759fa04aeff7)

Ramps are being constructed to eventually allow access between Highway 219 Northbound and 52nd Avenue. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg545.imageshack.us%2Fimg545%2F4167%2Fu685.jpg&hash=8a25b0de11279e69d712dc8358776e7a60ed127f)

This is just south of the 52nd Avenue intersection along Highway 219 (facing east).  Aside from the brief 5-lane stretch near the 52nd Avenue intersection, it is a 2-lane expressway beginning just south of 33rd Avenue.  In order to accommodate increased traffic, it is being converted into a predominantly 4-lane freeway as per the Chemeketa Parkway design specifications.  This phase of the project will upgrade the roadway from the start of the existing 2-lane expressway segment, up to just south of 59th Avenue.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg843.imageshack.us%2Fimg843%2F6643%2Fu686.jpg&hash=5de38d7a5f4ebdb86f2f35a43e0989dc5156802c)

Grading continues (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F3390%2Fu687.jpg&hash=8d5b53705ecfa537d2105db9b57e276f0718e15b)

Pavement has been laid on what will become the northbound lanes (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg145.imageshack.us%2Fimg145%2F8349%2Fu688.jpg&hash=b3fb8181903c67c73f80f860d1545610125d3689)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg97.imageshack.us%2Fimg97%2F8629%2Fu689.jpg&hash=7e945a40f9449af934e72ca2080cc8c16cef1956)

This is the intersection of 39th and Highway 219 (facing east).  This intersection is also having substantial difficulties stemming from the high volume of traffic, and is failing almost as badly as the 52nd Avenue intersection--#2 on the most dangerous list.  39th is an arterial roadway which, for much of its length, forms a border between residential and high-tech industrial areas, and has a "surfway" segment east of Ashcroft Street.  It was only built as a landscaped 2-lane facility west of Ashcroft Street--adequate at the time, but not so much anymore.  We'll see more of it in Update 70.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F2801%2Fu6810.jpg&hash=756f1343e231a7af34389c6e6f8cdeace8e9c0ce)

This is the intersection of 33rd and Highway 219 (facing east), the south end of existing 2-lane expressway section of Highway 219 (you can see where the RHW-2 converts to a Road in the lower right corner).  South of 33rd, Highway 219 takes on the Division Street name as it approaches downtown.  33rd is a collector roadway which runs right through the middle of one of the aforementioned high-tech areas.  As you can see, it's also getting quite a lot of traffic and is failing to meet standards.  Much of the strain on it will be reduced with the improvements to the 39th Avenue intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg132.imageshack.us%2Fimg132%2F8284%2Fu6811.jpg&hash=e4fd58305c195f36bc43ff1928b197da57a1fdb4)

Now, back to 52nd and Highway 219 (facing east).  The existing intersection has been demolished to allow for further construction on the new overpass, while the western segment of 52nd has been diverted onto another temporary roadway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F2530%2Fu6813.jpg&hash=ae2be638849c43954dc0c72499d60b6c7653f1f1)

In order to make way for resurfacing and widening along Highway 219, 2 lanes have been closed, restricting traffic to 1 lane in each direction (facing east).  It's creating quite the backup, but it'll all be worth it when the improved roadway is opened.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg267.imageshack.us%2Fimg267%2F802%2Fu6814u.jpg&hash=b597929c079b949f37a53014559363992a1cea95)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg255.imageshack.us%2Fimg255%2F1279%2Fu6815.jpg&hash=bb7cab68066b959d3c04fde954a2918aa5ea5c52)

A look at Highway 219 north of 52nd while construction continues (facing north), with the narrowed form of the existing alignment side-by-side with the incomplete new roadway, which will have auxiliary lanes on and off the interchange with 52nd.  You may also spot something else here--a standard issue ORDOT highway shield.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F9017%2Fu6816.jpg&hash=ec081eadc0b51808b1819029dd13e4c631f4ff0f)

Next up will be Part 3 of the Northern Crossing Project, and after that, we'll continue to spend some time in the general vicinity of 52nd and Highway 219--there's still a lot of construction to show there--culminating in a "mosaicfest" showing off the finished product, and a look at the Chemeketa Metro Area Regional Transport Plan.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: jdenm8 on February 20, 2011, 08:01:13 PM
Hm...
Maybe you are going with a Diamond...

Thanks for the honour (And it is one :P ). Not bad for a first post in here.  $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: bat on February 21, 2011, 05:47:35 AM
Another superb update of the construction of these roads!
Great images.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: metarvo on February 21, 2011, 07:57:34 AM
There's nothing quite like the sound of construction equipment in the morning.  Things appear to be going quite nicely in Chemeketa.  I'm looking forward to see how these overpasses turn out.  Keep up the good work!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: Haljackey on February 21, 2011, 09:29:42 AM
Geesh Alex you are an update machine! I need to visit your MD way more often just to stay caught up!

Always great to see some road construction shots, it's what your MD is known for! I think they keep getting better and better as this MD has progressed. Excellent attention to detail!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: Nego on February 21, 2011, 03:18:59 PM
Great update, as always! &apls Nice work on your ORDOT sign! I'm lucky if I can get my signs to look half as good as yours, even in HD. Nice job! ;) It's nice to see things moving along here again. Can't wait for your next update. :thumbsup:

Edit: Reply #1111 (look at all those ones! ::) )
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: kj3400 on February 22, 2011, 12:22:48 PM
I'm usually the type to lurk here, but let's just say I was inspired to come out today.  :P Love the shields, and the constuction is superb as always.
You might see me again, but for now I'm probably going to go back in lurk mode. $%#Ninj2
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: samerton on February 22, 2011, 12:26:04 PM
Amazing as always!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 68--2/20/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 2)
Post by: Ramona Brie on February 24, 2011, 12:46:11 PM
Dude, you keep outdoing yourself.

I have a problem...I want to have a traffic challenge to deal with in my cities, but I have notoriously high rates of pedestrian traffic. Any advice?

(BTW...you're still using public release textures then instead of V5-Spec?)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Tarkus on February 25, 2011, 03:29:50 PM
Hi everyone-

Back with another update . . . we'll be continuing work on the Highway 219/52nd Avenue interchange.  But first, replies:

jdenm8: Yes, it is going to be a diamond . . . but with some additional channelization and some other enhancements to increase capacity.  And I'll be revealing the "on the map" honor here relatively soon . . . just picking the most fitting spot. :thumbsup:  Thanks for stopping by! :)

bat: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed the construction!

metarvo: Most definitely . . . some interesting harmonies can arise from the machinery and a backing-up backhoe can add some nice higher register to the timbral mix.   ::)  (Sorry, my music geek side is coming out. :D)  Thanks for the kind words, and I hope you like the result of the overpass project!

Ryan (Haljackey): Hey, no worries. :D  It's nice getting a rhythm again at this MD side of things.  Thanks for the very kind compliments on the construction imagery--I'm glad to hear that it's improving . . . one of these days, I'd like to take it even a step further, and may set out on that once my upcoming dose of RL and the next NAM release cycle is out of the way. 

Nego: Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the update and liked the highway shield!  That was really the first time I managed to make one to my satisfaction . . . alpha images can really come in handy for things like that, I've found.  Hope you enjoy this update as well! :)

kj3400:  Welcome out of the shadows!  Thanks for the kind words on the shields and the construction, and I hope to see you (and the other lurkers who pop by here semi-regularly) again here at Tarkusian Cities! :)

samerton: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Raymie (Tracker): Thank you for the kind words!  As far as the public release textures, I'm not using them anymore, but I was still at the time when these projects were constructed.  Upon the completion of this project, it'll be just about all V5-Spec from here on out.  As far as getting really high pedestrian traffic, there's quite a number of things that can cause it.  It might be a traffic simulator settings issue (I'd make sure the most recent NAM one is loading properly to be safe), and it could also be the result of development patterns or network layout.  I've also sometimes noticed that neighbor connections can accumulate quite a bit of ped traffic.  Making sure the roads are beefed up and are the quickest routes helps, too.




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg607.imageshack.us%2Fimg607%2F9853%2Fnortherncrossinglogo.png&hash=21240e359e0d1315414fcb069a785405c3eaa6ef)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

We're now onto Part 3 of the Northern Crossing Project, which will mark a milestone in the project--the opening of the 52nd Avenue interchange.

As we left off last time, 52nd east of Highway 219 was closed off for overpass construction, and both Highway 219 and the open section of 52nd to the west were on temporary, narrowed alignments for construction staging.  As you can see here, the overpass is nearly complete now, as well as the on and off ramps from 219 northbound to 52nd (facing north).  The southbound onramp is also partially in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg708.imageshack.us%2Fimg708%2F5121%2Fu691.jpg&hash=7455929b2d9fcf92a7e837f41f943bdd61082ad2)

A short stretch of the new freeway-grade 219 is getting in place (facing north).  For reference purposes, in case you're wondering, that road ending just before the railroad tracks is 44th Avenue NE.  The stretch from here down to 33rd will continue to be 2 lanes until ORDOT begins work on the 39th Avenue intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg51.imageshack.us%2Fimg51%2F4843%2Fu692.jpg&hash=b2cb4c2d4c6213bdb1f1a50275428362ea07e7ad)

Here is the north end of the freeway-grade 219 (facing north).  The cross street here is 59th Avenue NE, which is the northern bounds of the project.  Construction on the freeway section north of here will not begin until funding has been acquired, and an alignment has been chosen.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg141.imageshack.us%2Fimg141%2F7985%2Fu693.jpg&hash=a6e57cf00e5a43eb6bef4139b75ebf3d02a798a0)

Cranes are in place for work on the southbound offramp from 219 to 52nd (facing north).  219 has been "twinned" now through this segment, and the temporary alignment of 52nd is still in place while the overpass is completed.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F8257%2Fu694.jpg&hash=e076dc1dd382c3cff1fe68629df91e7908cc2bc8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg821.imageshack.us%2Fimg821%2F3827%2Fu695.jpg&hash=b78883c5d92efd52cd1c06240fda9994b2b82b9a)

The overpass and southbound onramp have been completed (facing north).  Next up, the new overpass will be connected up to the bridges, temporarily using a ground-level alignment until much later in the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg42.imageshack.us%2Fimg42%2F7272%2Fu696.jpg&hash=7136f8df4fed1eb566db8d521807738d5bfec825)

Eastbound 52nd has now been connected to the overpass (facing north).  Westbound traffic still needs to use the access road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg816.imageshack.us%2Fimg816%2F9905%2Fu697.jpg&hash=b35486f5d3e95438a1c1da991dcba3dcdece8d8e)

The section of 52nd to the east is now open, with the Liberty Street intersection closed off (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg20.imageshack.us%2Fimg20%2F5017%2Fu698.jpg&hash=65e6dd2a205a5950578cc74a4fc96eeb45cec981)

The overpass has now been fully connected to the western portion of 52nd (facing north).  The access road is still in place for the time being, though it will need to be removed to make way for the actual southbound offramp from 219 to 52nd. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F9144%2Fu699.jpg&hash=71013c4f7e0c86c0b25bb7fd93cd1e0001e5c206)

The access road has been removed (facing north).  This will temporarily leave no access from southbound 219 to 52nd until the proper offramp is constructed.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg577.imageshack.us%2Fimg577%2F8297%2Fu6910.jpg&hash=802a62a9a90aeb6b9d610c396c5980564085e7d0)

The offramp structure is now in place, and simply needs to be connected into 219 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg810.imageshack.us%2Fimg810%2F2072%2Fu6911.jpg&hash=f4f00866de4878ab13913deecbadb3c446775bd3)

A look at 219 just south of the interchange (facing north).  The ramps here have been given auxiliary lanes, though the actual configuration of the southbound side will be getting a bit more redesign before the project is complete.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg831.imageshack.us%2Fimg831%2F5919%2Fu6912.jpg&hash=441c3581df3c37be6e8a69ac5fea773f772fc94f)

The interchange is now officially open, though it is not complete yet (facing south).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg713.imageshack.us%2Fimg713%2F9829%2Fu6913.jpg&hash=4b4e53c0892a1ce7524e964f7f706300a762cf0c)

To allow for fully-controlled access from 52nd eastbound to 219 southbound, a slip ramp is being constructed (facing north).  The slip ramp will be reconfigured later in the project.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg828.imageshack.us%2Fimg828%2F2027%2Fu6914.jpg&hash=d137ec431333b5c29be7e542dc3bfbed66077c00)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F37%2Fu6915.jpg&hash=de7be80d3310424c021dbb73aa81c42d8c739e11)

The southbound connection into 219 has been modified slightly with the completion of the slip ramp (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg220.imageshack.us%2Fimg220%2F3846%2Fu6916.jpg&hash=6da316d37983916b148b939ae785a8c454fc757c)

The full interchange with the slip ramp now in place (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg831.imageshack.us%2Fimg831%2F2285%2Fu6917.jpg&hash=f1674b97b4b8e7a7c180a1cbceee144cf57543a8)

Next up will be the fourth and final part of the Northern Crossing Project, which will complete the rest of the improvements west of the Willamette River, along 52nd up to Wallace Road.  Then, we'll go back to the east side of the river to see the remainder of the first segment of the Chemeketa Parkway Project, with the improvements at 39th Avenue.

Hope you enjoyed this latest installment!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Ciuu96 on February 25, 2011, 04:54:40 PM
I've been lurking here, and gotta say that your MD is awesome! I just love the realistic construction and the detail you put in to your road system. Very nice! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: noahclem on February 25, 2011, 05:10:09 PM
Great looking new interchange!  &apls  I look forward to the "mosaic-fest"  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: samerton on February 26, 2011, 12:52:17 AM
Great interchange! Great detail, too!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Ramona Brie on February 26, 2011, 11:56:05 AM
I'm very much enjoying what I see and the thought going into it. Update 70 should be really interesting.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Ryan B. on February 26, 2011, 02:39:56 PM
I admire the attention to detail throughout this construction project, Alex.  It's just great.

So, what's first . . . work zone speed limit signs?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Nego on February 27, 2011, 10:29:45 AM
The Northern Crossing Project has come a long way since the most dangerous intersection that it was in the beginning. Watching the construction process has been very enjoyable and I can't wait to see what you have in store for your other upcoming projects. Can't wait to see more! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Haljackey on February 27, 2011, 02:42:38 PM
Update update update!

I like the use of MAVE-2 in the construction images. The finishing touch adding a slip ramp to the diamond gives the interchange character. Nice work!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 69--2/25/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 3)
Post by: Battlecat on February 28, 2011, 09:50:37 AM
Great stuff in the last two updates.  I never get tired of your realistic approach to road and highway improvements.  Reminds me of the chaos here in in my area (22 km of highway, overpasses and interchanges being upgraded and expanded along with a major bridge replacement). 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: Tarkus on March 07, 2011, 03:17:05 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another update . . . we'll be mostly finishing up the Northern Crossing Project this update, taking a look at the construction improvements on the west side of the river.  But first, replies:

Ciuu96: Thank you for the very kind words!  It's great to have another lurker pop out of the shadows, and I'm glad you found the construction aspects realistic.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, I'm very pleased to hear that you like the new interchange, and you don't have too much longer to wait until the big "mosaic-fest" arrives. :)

Samerton: Thank you for the kind words on the interchange, and I'm glad you found everything detailed enough!

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks!  I'm always happy to hear that my readers are enjoying things here, and I hope you find this update to be interesting!

Ryan B.: Thanks, my friend!  A compliment like that means a lot to me coming from a fellow purveyor of roadway realism.  I've actually got some nice Oregon-spec signs in place for work zones . . . I'm probably mainly in need of some good ol' orange signs. :)

Nego: Thanks, I'm very pleased to hear that you're enjoying things, and looking back over the past few updates, it is interesting seeing just how much things have changed. :)  Hope you enjoy this latest episode in the construction saga!

Ryan (Haljackey)): That means a lot coming from an interchange guru such as yourself--thank you for the kind words!  The AVE-2 bit there was something I kind of randomly thought of when building that construction scene . . . it seemed an appropriate "transitional" state for the upgrade.

Battlecat: Thank you for the very kind compliments, my friend--I'm pleased to hear that I've managed to keep things interesting on the construction side of things.  That sounds like quite the extensive project in your area . . . and a bit similar to some of the stuff going on with US-97 around Bend, Oregon. That road's been undergoing some pretty substantial upgrades over the past 10-12 years or so with the boom in population there.  They just upgraded a pretty substantial stretch of RHW-2 south of town to an RHW-4 with full interchanges . . . had the chance to drive it after they opened up the new northbound lanes back in October. :thumbsup:  

Now onto the update:




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg607.imageshack.us%2Fimg607%2F9853%2Fnortherncrossinglogo.png&hash=21240e359e0d1315414fcb069a785405c3eaa6ef)

This update will mostly bring the Northern Crossing Project to a close, before we head back over to the east side of the river to look at the remaining Chemeketa Parkway work along Highway 219.  As you've seen from the previous updates, the bridge over the Willamette River on 52nd Avenue (Highway 221) was twinned into a expressway-grade structure.  However, between the interchange with Wallace Road and the bridges, there lies one "holdover"--the intersection of 52nd and Greenwich Avenue.  This final phase of the project will upgrade the remainder of 52nd Avenue NW from the bridge to Wallace Road to a full, 4-lane, mostly elevated expressway, replacing the intersection at Greenwich with an interchange.

Here's the current end of the expressway segment, with the temporary alignment of 52nd from a prior phase of the project still partially in place below (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg823.imageshack.us%2Fimg823%2F5015%2Fu701.jpg&hash=7af27725c1771e66760eb428d31d2169fca3ee98)

The old temporary alignment has now been kind of torn out to make way for cranes.  The eastbound lanes will actually be shifted 50 feet to the south, to eliminate a "jog" in the existing alignment (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg163.imageshack.us%2Fimg163%2F8784%2Fu702.jpg&hash=d7ecd5905419d45fdfc9ec8753cf39c2f10dec9d)

Here's the aforementioned 52nd/Greenwich intersection (facing west).  Both are just 2-lane roads right now here, and with the development to the south along Greenwich, the traffic coming from Wallace Road and the rest of Vivien Heights, and the long-term plans to develop land north of 52nd, it just doesn't cut it anymore.  You can see the cranes, ready to put the elevated expressway in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg855.imageshack.us%2Fimg855%2F952%2Fu703.jpg&hash=e0e7666f00ff4c511ae19aac5ee0cf5347dcc761)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg847.imageshack.us%2Fimg847%2F8185%2Fu704.jpg&hash=913c7f143f8b5cb23e378c526e4e55545133d1a3)

Work continuing on the shift of the shift of the eastbound lanes (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg848.imageshack.us%2Fimg848%2F6783%2Fu705.jpg&hash=a1240d879c56db31ec05815ca8a90f1080869462)

The ramp from Greenwich to 52nd eastbound is going in place (facing west).  The stretch of 52nd/Highway 221 west of Greenwich has temporarily been closed off to allow the elevated portion to be connected into the Wallace Road interchange.  The old ground alignment is being "sandwiched" between the new elevated roadways to maintain access.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg851.imageshack.us%2Fimg851%2F1963%2Fu706.jpg&hash=52b5a426f9b604c34b80b353c0c2ff9d6e39fdb4)

More alignment shifting (facing west).  The westbound lanes are temporarily being shifted to allow access to Greenwich while the rest of the elevated structure is extended over Greenwich.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg402.imageshack.us%2Fimg402%2F6379%2Fu707.jpg&hash=10e8a77aac31a6bb512cc4c806b6ad1a273bba8d)

Here's the temporary westbound alignment connecting into Greenwich, with work on the ramp from westbound Highway 221/52nd to Greenwich.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg141.imageshack.us%2Fimg141%2F2816%2Fu708.jpg&hash=b1e0b051362046d2f708356bb9d0f223e8243302)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg215.imageshack.us%2Fimg215%2F2222%2Fu709.jpg&hash=60d5e5b5981c4fd88b528bb52f1cfe2f96badf2a)

The shifting between the bridge and Greenwich is now largely complete (facing west).  The temporary shifted westbound lanes have been disconnected from and the new alignment opened, as it now has a ramp to access Greenwich.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg708.imageshack.us%2Fimg708%2F1885%2Fu7010.jpg&hash=971b1316ddc6ee056ed1de719830d836c623b040)

The Wallace Road interchange has now been connected into the eastbound lanes of the new elevated section (facing west).  There will be no direct access from eastbound 52nd/Hwy 221 to Greenwich, at least for the time being, due to the close proximity of the Wallace Road interchange.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg810.imageshack.us%2Fimg810%2F4460%2Fu7011.jpg&hash=9a7daa6dcb6ca742ac8b10a74b0bbfeca10e6ea3)

Here is the process of connecting the westbound lanes to the Wallace Road interchange (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg715.imageshack.us%2Fimg715%2F3649%2Fu7012.jpg&hash=4c792dcd23addccbbeadde8ed5da7bb4e01a7074)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg852.imageshack.us%2Fimg852%2F2116%2Fu7013.jpg&hash=b78d844264136a8a01c5840f443db27e2879dc6f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F4720%2Fu7014f.jpg&hash=3efb4108a60f1abd7eebab7e6f04d484234d3104)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg64.imageshack.us%2Fimg64%2F8676%2Fu7015.jpg&hash=ed91bfaf63ed5393cd2675364d81e4127b08f168)

The partial diamond interchange with Greenwich is now largely completed (facing west).  The westbound ramp from Greenwich actually bypasses the Wallace Road interchange entirely and joins Highway 221 just west of the interchange.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F4156%2Fu7016.jpg&hash=df3c4b9d9cd76ea71b5e3311634fa28a936a5c48)

In order to better handle the existing traffic volumes and to prepare for the eventual extension of Greenwich north of Hwy 221/52nd Ave, Greenwich is being widened to 4 lanes in the vicinity of the interchange (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F8050%2Fu7016a.jpg&hash=58b8c7cbd7f7c2d4238b97a671191480eefed899)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg546.imageshack.us%2Fimg546%2F634%2Fu7016b.jpg&hash=b28271bf1f7c54f42153441caf88186455e75523)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F4294%2Fu7017.jpg&hash=209bd6f54622f17297962ec4970c95324e980934)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg145.imageshack.us%2Fimg145%2F7761%2Fu7018.jpg&hash=86a80174461909c300903a8312415bb1a9582fc9)

A final image here . . . the old temporary alignment has been temporary reconstituted as a gravel roadway to provide access to CPUD's (Chemeketa Public Utility District) new Greenwich Substation.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg219.imageshack.us%2Fimg219%2F5126%2Fu7019.jpg&hash=f06288ae159130206967cc9ab8817f4864a12515)

Hope you enjoyed this update!  We'll be heading east of the river again to look at the Chemeketa Parkway upgrades to the Highway 219/39th Avenue intersection, following with the anticipated "mosaicfest" that will show all the improvements of the Northern Crossing and Chemeketa Parkway Phase I projects.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: Haljackey on March 07, 2011, 03:35:42 PM
Great work. I always find elevated RHWs are hard to work with in terms of making them ascetically pleasing, but you pulled it off brilliantly.

Nice map too!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: jdenm8 on March 07, 2011, 03:41:49 PM
Ah... Sensible design... Around here they would have just made a sharp turn from the (extremely shortened, they would have ended it straight after Greenwich) viaduct to the existing road into the intersection. :P

this has given me the inspiration to do a proper construction piece in my own CJ... but it has to wait :P (You've seen the picture)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: noahclem on March 07, 2011, 04:33:13 PM
Great update Alex! I like the way you're allowing partial access at Greenwich without creating trouble spots for weaving. I'm hoping to do more stuff like that as I develop the central tile of Siilijoki. The detailed, realistic, and visually-appealing presentation methodology is one of the main things that makes Tarkusian Cities great but I think I enjoy your well-thought-out network planning even more. Between those traits and your maps I somehow walk away from here remembering names like Wallace Rd or 52nd St as well as their routes and some of the neighborhoods they serve.

Looking forward to more  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: Ramona Brie on March 07, 2011, 05:39:14 PM
Very nice indeed. I really like the way the temporary road is connected in and then out.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: canyonjumper on March 07, 2011, 06:20:14 PM
The style you've constructed to detail the construction keeps it interesting and enjoyable ;D Great job Alex!

                Your friend,
                               Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: bat on March 08, 2011, 07:12:31 AM
Two really great new updates!
Your pictures are always really nice.
Great work on it.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on March 08, 2011, 07:16:46 AM
Drools....foams....another great update... :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: penguin007 on March 09, 2011, 10:13:13 AM
Nice update love all the construction pics!!

Will
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: kj3400 on March 09, 2011, 10:57:05 AM
Nothing like a little road construction to make my day.

I might be coming out of lurk mode a little more often :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: samerton on March 09, 2011, 01:51:21 PM
Wow! Great road construction and upgrading!  &apls   Very realistic, too!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: RickD on March 10, 2011, 02:57:21 AM
Did someone say "mosaicfest"? ... Yay!  :thumbsup:


It was fascinating to follow the development of the Northern Crossing Project.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 70--3/7/2011--Chemeketa: Northern Crossing Part 4)
Post by: Nego on March 10, 2011, 04:05:36 PM
Great update! &apls It's really nice to see the rest of 221 coming along quite nicely. I am wondering, though, why did you choose to have the ramp from Greenwich Ave to 221 West bypass the Wallace Rd interchange all together? Couldn't you have added a small connector from the ramp from Greenwich Ave to the ramp to Wallace Rd?

Overall great update an I can't wait for the next! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: Tarkus on March 14, 2011, 03:40:11 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another update, where we'll be back on the east side of the river to look at the upgrades underway on Highway 219.

But first, replies:

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the kind words!  The ERHWs can indeed be a little bit tricky in that regard, but as I've not used a Maxis Highway in nearly 4 years except for testing (gave 'em up cold turkey :D), I guess I've become acclimated to them.

jdenm8: Thanks, I'm very glad to hear that you found the design sensible!  I'm trying to picture the "alternative" you mentioned your local road authorities would probably do, and it's not a pretty sight. :D  I'll be looking forward to seeing your construction here soon as well. :)

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, I'm glad you like the interchange design there . . . the partial access made even more sense with how the surface streets are laid out, too, so it's not really a functional loss.  And I'm really flattered by the notion that folks are remembering the road and geographic names and layouts outside of here--trying to create a "place MD", as David (dedgren) would call it is something for which I've always strived here.

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the construction and the little temporary road bit--I find that it serves not only as a little bit of eyecandy here for MDing purposes, but actually serves a functional purpose in the game as well, allowing me a bit more flexibility when tearing things apart.

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thank you for the very kind compliments on the "style" of updates here--I'm glad to hear I've managed to keep things interesting. :)

bat: Thanks, my friend, for the kind words on the updates--it's always great to see you here!

Corey (Nexis4Jersey):  Just be careful you don't short out the keyboard. :D  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad you enjoyed the update.

Will (penguin007): Thanks for the kind words on the construction--there's more where that came from this update!

kj3400: Always glad to make someone's day!  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm always thrilled when I can entice someone out of lurk mode here.   :thumbsup:

Sam (samerton): Thanks for the compliments on the construction--I'm glad to hear I managed to make things realistic!

Raphael (RickD): Yes, someone did say "mosaicfest" . . . only a couple more updates (it appears it'll be Update 73). :)  Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed the Northern Crossing Project, and I hope you enjoy these next couple updates before the mosaic fest.

Nego: Thanks for the kind words and for the interesting suggestion--I have looked over the area around the ramps and it looks like your idea is very much feasible.  I'm glad you enjoyed the update. :)





(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg691.imageshack.us%2Fimg691%2F589%2Fchemeketapkwyphase1logo.png&hash=fa2a5456eac1f7a6bd051b96688269c7dab96909)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

The long term transportation plans for North Chemeketa and northern Marion County include goals for improving connectivity and capacity along the major arterials in the region, including the construction of new arterial roadways to facilitate travel in and out of the Chemeketa city center, and to the larger national highway system.

One such project is the Chemeketa Parkway project, which, in its initial phase, will convert the existing alignment of Highway 219 from just north of the city center up to just north of the junction with Highway 221 and 52nd Avenue Northeast.  Some initial work on this project was accomplished as part of the Northern Crossing Project, which converted the Highway 221/52nd Avenue NE junction from a signalized intersection to a full grade-separated interchange. 

The main components of Phase 1 include:

Here is the beginning of the project, at the existing Hwy 219/39th Ave NE intersection, facing north.  Some work has started already in preparation for widening.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg840.imageshack.us%2Fimg840%2F1561%2Fu711.jpg&hash=6979e4cd2aa19bb1aa062ef9be735489b5a8ea64)

Here are a couple representative segments of 39th Avenue just east of Highway 219 (facing north).  It is currently a 2-lane facility with a landscaped median until the vicinity of Ashcroft St NE, where it becomes a 4-lane roadway.  The project will widen the entire stretch of 39th to 4 lanes, with a center turn lane where appropriate.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F9231%2Fu712.jpg&hash=97f80e3aa18e0785d8c21445ba5a11ea869322ed)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg217.imageshack.us%2Fimg217%2F8831%2Fu713.jpg&hash=0b2831f74ba5c75cb185fdc126f038e1cb7680a4)

This is the existing intersection of 33rd Ave NE and Highway 219 (facing north).  It's in a similar situation to the 39th Ave intersection, and because of its close proximity to 33rd and the geometry of the roadway here, it will be converted to a RIRO configuration with a connector road to 39th to ease lost access.

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The CPUD electrical substation that sits at the corner of 39th and Highway 219 is in the right-of-way needed for the widening and interchange.  To this effect, it will need to be moved to the other side of the railroad.  Ground clearing on the new site of the substation has begun (facing north).

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The substation has been moved, and grading work has begun in preparation for the interchange (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg846.imageshack.us%2Fimg846%2F5456%2Fu718.jpg&hash=07cb389e49a04048c18de3fc516ef1f8f6d80fc2)

Work beginning in preparation for the 39th Avenue overpass over Highway 219 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg96.imageshack.us%2Fimg96%2F8947%2Fu719.jpg&hash=9301b4d29949b7c41acaf4e2c0cd9a50eff14411)

The widening of Highway 219 will affect Sorenson Creek, which crosses between 33rd and 39th (facing west).  A temporary culvert will have to be constructed to maintain flow while construction is underway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg96.imageshack.us%2Fimg96%2F9273%2Fu7110.jpg&hash=41b95e488a851b195a7d039aa20e64afeec48732)

Temporary overpass structure work underway (facing west).  The interchange will be a hybrid diamond/trumpet, with access to and from northbound 219 being handled by the diamond half, and access to and from southbound 219 handled by the trumpet half.

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The westbound half of the 39th Avenue overpass has been built to connect into the trumpet half (facing west).  The existing alignment of 39th has been temporarily maintained to provide access from the other approaches, but will need to be closed for construction.  You can also see the southbound onramp coming out of the trumpet half connected into Highway 219.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg849.imageshack.us%2Fimg849%2F3128%2Fu7112.jpg&hash=cf6a19a4ad2a48776b22e8aa9611e2ee4dd4117b)

The northbound onramp has been connected in (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg860.imageshack.us%2Fimg860%2F2230%2Fu7113.jpg&hash=511d0a8ee901f54d56fdd01ac26c6c8b5d8e6c2e)

Eastbound 39th has now been closed down, and 39th cannot be directly accessed from Hwy 219 (facing west).  Motorists must use 33rd and Progress Street to access 39th.

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The widening on Highway 219 is underway (facing south), and the northbound onramp has been connected into the new northbound lanes on 219, meaning the only direct access from 39th is from 39th westbound to 219 southbound.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg852.imageshack.us%2Fimg852%2F3733%2Fu7117.jpg&hash=a2841089921ff4e6ad8ad59a021c160295237721)

All direct access from 39th to Hwy 219 has been closed off to finish the connection to the widened highway and the overpass itself (facing west).  You can see the temporary overpass structure in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg808.imageshack.us%2Fimg808%2F9325%2Fu7118.jpg&hash=4e3f661c8d1b58c47c31d8f9ae4fa9dddf30c9af)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities--I hope you enjoyed it!  We'll see the completion of the 39th Avenue Interchange and widening next update, and then, it'll be onto mosaicfest and a preview of upcoming projects and long-term plans for road improvement projects in Chemeketa and vicinity.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on March 14, 2011, 07:29:14 PM
So it's a trumpet with an intersection on the ending street? Kinda cool.

And what do you mean by saying that these are "temporary" overpass structures? Is the avenue overpass being redone?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: noahclem on March 15, 2011, 05:44:31 AM
Development and improvement along the parkway is looking great! I'm curious to see the end result of the new interchange. Speaking of parkway, what do you plan on doing with the area between the river and the construction? I'd be interested to see a Tarkusian green space  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: simcity4ever on March 15, 2011, 08:49:19 AM
Nice new update! &apls

However, I need to ask a question. Why aren't you using the new V5-Spec Textures? ()what()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: citybuilderx on March 15, 2011, 08:52:15 AM
Great update as usual Tarkus. I'm looking forward to see your long term plans for the region and the mosaicfest!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on March 15, 2011, 05:25:30 PM
Quote from: simcity4ever on March 15, 2011, 08:49:19 AM
Nice new update! &apls

However, I need to ask a question. Why aren't you using the new V5-Spec Textures? ()what()

He wasn't at the time these projects were done, but after this chunk of project, he did switch to V5-Spec.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: bakerton on March 16, 2011, 07:47:41 AM
Alex, What a nice construction follow thru. I bet all of Chemeketa's residents are very happy that their tax dollars are being spent in a such a good way. Now, was the power rerouted during the powerstation's move and did it put a strain on the powergrid?
Anyway, I look forward to more and your mosaicfest. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: samerton on March 16, 2011, 09:55:02 AM
Great and very inspiring!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on March 17, 2011, 09:39:55 PM
Another great update, Alex! You do such a great job presenting your projects, it feels like I'm reading a real DOT's description of a project. The construction, as usual, is superb, and an example of the style that I aspire to emulate over in Nyhaven (whenever I get around to making more construction updates... ::)). I look forward to the upcoming mosaicfest!

Hoping you're doing well on your dissertation,
Zack
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 71--3/14/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.1)
Post by: Nego on March 23, 2011, 05:45:54 AM
Another great update as usual! &apls The parkway is coning along quite nicely. I like your use of FAMIS and I'm excited to see the finished product. Can't wait! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: Tarkus on March 26, 2011, 10:25:58 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another update.  We'll be finishing up Phase 1 of the Chemeketa Parkway, and the long-awaited mosaic fest will be here next update.

But first, replies:

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the kind words!  Yes, the interchange will essentially be a trumpet with an intersection on one side.  And to answer your question on the overpasses, yes, they'll be getting redone, as you'll see in the mosaic-fest.  (And thanks for answering simcity4ever's question! :))

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the update! :)  Regarding the space between the parkway and the river, that's a good question.  I like your idea, and coincidentally, I was actually considering putting some sort of pedestrian/bike trail there . . . it seems like a logical spot for one.

simcity4ever: Thanks, and as Tracker mentioned, most of the images were captured during a time when I didn't have the V5-Spec textures installed.  This update will be one of the very last to feature the existing V4.0/4.1 textures, and the mosaic-fest will show off V5-Spec in action.

citybuilderx: Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and we're almost to the reveal of the mosaic-fest and long-term plans.  I'm looking forward to it as well. :)

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the compliments on the construction!  The residents seem to be liking the new changes on the 52nd Avenue side of things, and hopefully, they'll be pleased with ORDOT's work on the parkway.  Fortunately, there were quite a few other power stations and substations up and running during the substation move, so there was minimal disruption to CPUD's service.

Sam (samerton): Thanks, I'm always very happy to hear that these updates are providing inspiration. :)

Zack (woodb3kmaster): Thanks for the very kind words--it means a lot coming from a fellow road enthusiast.   I'm glad you enjoyed the construction and I'll have to stop by Nyhaven to see what you've got going on there. :)  As far as my dissertation goes, I'm not quite there yet . . . the preliminary requirements are a doozy, but things are looking like I can get done with those this next term (which starts Monday for me).  Provided, of course, I can successfully round up 15-20 people to perform an hour worth of my rather thorny compositions, and then pass a brutal comprehensive exam. :D   

Nego: Thanks for the compliments on the parkway and the FAMIS usage!  I hope you find the finished product to your liking. :)




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg691.imageshack.us%2Fimg691%2F589%2Fchemeketapkwyphase1logo.png&hash=fa2a5456eac1f7a6bd051b96688269c7dab96909)

PROJECT AREA:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F9109%2Fnorthchemeketau67.th.png&hash=150b726ece4e6577a41c6081baa35ccfcea7ff85) (http://img88.imageshack.us/i/northchemeketau67.png/)

ORDOT is still hard at work on Phase 1 of the Chemeketa Parkway project, which will upgrade a short stretch of Highway 219 in Chemeketa to 4-lane expressway standards.  We left off last time with work still underway on converting the dangerous intersection at 39th Avenue Northeast to a full interchange.

Here's looking west at the current state of the interchange, with 39th closed off for the time being to allow for completion of the overpass.

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Because the 33rd Avenue intersection is being converted to a RIRO (right-in, right-out) setup, a connector roadway is being constructed between 39th and 33rd just east of the interchange, which will have a signalized intersection with 39th. (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg508.imageshack.us%2Fimg508%2F7481%2Fu722.jpg&hash=af75544c6407ff34560dcfb63be4cbc6a59a5d12)

Here's a broader view of the connector being constructed. (facing west).  One technical challenge will be the need for a bridge over Sorenson Creek.

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Here's a broader view near the intersection of 39th and Progress (facing west).  The remainder of the 2-lane section of 39th will be widened to 4 travel lanes with a center turn lane as part of the project.

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Highway 219 also passes over Sorenson Creek, and to make way for the widening, a larger culvert is being built (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg823.imageshack.us%2Fimg823%2F4650%2Fu725.jpg&hash=dcf59af86dc50304bd8bfb30535fd6278a383412)

Construction is underway at 33rd and Highway 219, which is currently bearing a heavier brunt with the closure of 39th (facing west).  As previously mentioned, it'll be converted to a RIRO setup once widening is completed on 219.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg541.imageshack.us%2Fimg541%2F9717%2Fu726.jpg&hash=fdc0d177e7d6aa1bb5c2a1198adcea1777267992)

A lone bulldozer is prepping for the widening on 39th (facing west).

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Widening in full swing (facing west).

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(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg577.imageshack.us%2Fimg577%2F669%2Fu729.jpg&hash=e84c517fc0947a183add372c3cacf5c200fb7d63)

Widening is now complete up to the section before the overpass (facing west).  The intersection with the new connector road is getting in place as well, with the signal installed and being tested before opening everything to traffic.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg148.imageshack.us%2Fimg148%2F8741%2Fu7210.jpg&hash=7fff6499b61269352fe460fb8dca285d157577bd)

39th has now been connected up with the overpass (facing west), and the connector road has partially been paved.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F2985%2Fu7211.jpg&hash=c44cd13cfcb3cf64f5efa5dc5433eaf6437907a6)

A little more in place (facing west).  You can also see progress on the interchange--the ramps from northbound 219 onto 39th aren't yet in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg84.imageshack.us%2Fimg84%2F3337%2Fu7212.jpg&hash=bfffe0b3236750a4e5c3536d5714312171618c54)

Work on bridging the connector over Sorenson Creek (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg692.imageshack.us%2Fimg692%2F2316%2Fu7213.jpg&hash=3865822250de0795c6c02adba7d6e1f199197dd2)

This is where the connector meets 33rd Avenue (facing west).  It's been paved on this side, and as you can see, there's a dump truck heading to the bridge site to finish up the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F1507%2Fu7214.jpg&hash=0f5df6f8c3f51ff3facb6e79904cd44af7a75bfb)

New northbound lanes getting in place on 219 (facing west).  Traffic is still on the existing alignment, which will become the southbound lanes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg96.imageshack.us%2Fimg96%2F1237%2Fu7215.jpg&hash=ab47e803a0c57d50ce006f6224912f590eb1a726)

Since the connector road is now in place, ORDOT crews have now been able to close off the 33rd Avenue intersection with Highway 219 (facing west).  The new northbound lanes are being paved.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg84.imageshack.us%2Fimg84%2F8734%2Fu7216.jpg&hash=69ab98619c59c7d11397d77cca5776c1fae03a1b)

Northbound lanes now striped, with the RIRO connection at 33rd in place (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F9871%2Fu7217.jpg&hash=8d4c3217f07b3a62805e141c7a527207d407c185)

The northbound offramp from 219 onto 39th is now in place, and the existing alignment has been switched over to its new purpose as southbound lanes (facing west).  As you can see, ORDOT has also constructed auxiliary lanes for traffic merging onto 219 southbound from 39th westbound.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg848.imageshack.us%2Fimg848%2F4757%2Fu7218.jpg&hash=9ae660330ed8c2223fc75120d8e00cc66c44caf1)

The RIRO at 33rd is now open, effectively marking the completion of the project (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg841.imageshack.us%2Fimg841%2F6513%2Fu7219.jpg&hash=cae457d8c8545813fb2c67b29ce497b1e59338e8)

Next update, we'll be looking at the final results of the Northern Crossing Project and Chemeketa Parkway Phase 1 with the long-awaited mosaic-fest.  Hope you enjoyed this update!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: jdenm8 on March 27, 2011, 01:25:22 AM
Hm... That last one is a little dangerous... Traffic has to speed up to and down from Motorway Speeds in the flow of traffic... Even here, we do at least get 20m of slowdown lane before the exit and at least 50m of merging.

But, it doesn't make any real sense to have another intersection that close either... Most RL DoTs would have closed it permanently and make it a suburban street.

Ouch on the workload though... I've just got eight assignments due within the next 8 weeks... and that's just for four Bachelor's Degree subjects (in IT)  :'(
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: samerton on March 27, 2011, 11:20:13 AM
Great! This must be one of the best transportation MD's there are.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: Ramona Brie on March 29, 2011, 07:11:51 PM
Since there's no name for the connector, I've got some ideas...

How about Creekview Road or perhaps something more exotic. Forest Bobcat? Indian Creek? I don't know...

...But hey, it looks nice!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: metarvo on March 30, 2011, 07:24:24 AM
Construction in Chemeketa still seems to be rolling along nicely.  The traffic's certainly there to justify it, so it's about time.  Keep the good work going!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: noahclem on April 02, 2011, 05:18:45 AM
Great to see the project progressing, the new interchange looks great! Again I'm looking forward to the completion and mosaic fest!

I also hope your dissertation is going well and wish you the best of luck!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 72--3/26/2011--Chemeketa Pkwy, Phase 1.2)
Post by: Nego on April 03, 2011, 10:15:44 AM
Another great update, Tarkus. The parkway came out looking really nice! &apls Will you be doing some beautification? Also, nice use of the smooth curves. I can't wait for the next update, especially since it's mosaic-fest. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: Tarkus on April 03, 2011, 02:38:34 PM
Hi everyone-

We'll, it's the moment many of you have been waiting for here in Tarkusian Cities.  Mosaicfest is upon us, as well as the Chemeketa Metro Area Regional Transport Plan and a giant map covering 30 large city tiles (5 wide x 6 high).  With RL going full swing after this weekend (and not really letting up much until late May at the earliest), it may be quite awhile before Update 74 comes down the road.

First off, replies:

jdenm8: Thanks for the thoughtful comments on the 33rd Avenue situation--I always enjoy constructive feedback! :)  ORDOT had actually considered closing off 33rd there at the highway, but decided to go with the RIRO, at least for the time being. 

Most of the traffic using that connection is turning off the highway onto 33rd, and with the speed limit only being 50mph (~81km/h) on 219 and given that traffic is just coming off a signal at 28th Avenue, ORDOT figured it wasn't going to cause too much of an issue.  Long term, I think converting it to a one-way MIS ramp off 219 onto 33rd might be the best approach rather than maintaining a full RIRO, especially as ORDOT is studying a speed limit increase.  It sounds like it might be a good subject for a future update, in fact.  :thumbsup:

And best of luck with those eight assignments! :)

Sam (samerton): Thank you for the very kind words--given how many great transportationally-oriented MDs/CJs there are out there, I really take that as a compliment. :)

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks--I'm glad to hear it came out nice!  And I like your suggestions for the connector--as you'll see on the map this update, it's now designated as Bobcat Way NE.

metarvo: Thanks for the kind words and encouragement, and I agree, it is about time!  The motorists seem to be happy with the improvements so far, too.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the compliments on the interchange, and I hope the mosaicfest has been worth the wait!  Thanks for the best wishes on the whole degree side of things--going to need it this next month-and-a-half especially. :D

Nego: Thank you for the kind words on the update--I'm glad to hear the parkway came out nice!  The parkway has some natural beauty along it that hasn't really been touched (the riverbank has largely been left alone with its groves of oaks) but some additional enhancement couldn't hurt, I don't think.  I'm definitely considering Noah's suggestion last update of having some sort of trail along it for pedestrian/bike use, and I think some cottonwoods wouldn't hurt. :)  Thanks for the suggestion!  Hope you enjoy the mosaicfest!




Now it's mosaicfest.  I've prepared two mosaics, one from each side of the river. Both of these were taken fullscreen in the native screen width resolution on my laptop (1366x768), which exceeds the width of what one would want to post on the forums, so I've posted thumbnails that link to the full-size versions.

Here's the first--this is facing north, and will gives an overview of the Highway 221/Greenwich Avenue interchange and improvements, along with a look at some of the residential areas to the south along Greenwich.  (To help with following along with the map, the FAR intersection about halfway down is Greenwich and 43rd Ave NW).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg651.imageshack.us%2Fimg651%2F4634%2Fmosaic1p.th.jpg&hash=279a9da7f1c302a1ef95a8db9544464dd92144cd) (http://img651.imageshack.us/img651/4634/mosaic1p.jpg)

And here is the second--facing north along the Chemeketa Parkway between 52nd Avenue and 33rd Avenue, with a little bit of a look at the improvements on 39th, the new connector road and some of the surrounding development.  You'll notice ORDOT has made a few additional improvements to the parkway since the last update.  The elevated-to-ground-to-elevated "dip" on Highway 221/52nd between the bridge and the interchange has been eliminated, the overpasses have been fully fleshed out, and in order to minimize weaving, a C/D setup has been constructed along southbound Highway 219 between the 52nd Avenue onramp and the 39th Avenue offramp.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg12.imageshack.us%2Fimg12%2F1815%2Fmosaic2o.th.jpg&hash=47766b12edde419d1c742551ce903301882e03bc) (http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/1815/mosaic2o.jpg)

Finally, a map of the entire region and a look at future projects in the Chemeketa Metro Area.  The projects have been marked on the map, matching with the project numbers listed below.  You'll also find the connector roadway from last update is now named, and the 1100th poster, jdenm8, is now honored on the map as well--52nd Avenue NE, east of Schrute Road NE, becomes Flatwood Road NE.

Two options for viewing:

Gmapuploader (using Google Maps API) (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/uwr9fZyGVr)

Imageshack
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg836.imageshack.us%2Fimg836%2F3669%2Fchemeketamapu73.th.png&hash=85bc3927b57ee6e0cce5bb30e4c3415d452aa709) (http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/3669/chemeketamapu73.png)

1-Rankine-Dallas Corridor - extend Rankine Lane NE south from 52nd Avenue to connect up with Dallas Drive, and improve connectivity to Sorenson Street.

2-McCabe Street NE Extension - extend McCabe Street NE from 23rd Avenue to 33rd Avenue.

3-Wallace Road NW Widening - widen Wallace Road to 5 lanes between Vivien Heights Drive and 43rd Avenue.
4-52nd Avenue NE Widening - add 2 lanes in each direction to 52nd Avenue Northeast between Ashcroft Street and Schrute Road.  Study widening segment from Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 219) to Ashcroft St.

5-Hwy 15/39th Avenue NE Interchange - build an interchange to provide direct access to/from 39th Avenue NE to Highway 15.

6-Chemeketa Parkway Extension - extend the Chemeketa Parkway as a access-controlled freeway with at least 4 lanes from 59th Avenue NE to Highway 15, facilitating better access from Highway 15 and North Chemeketa to the city center.

7-Scarlet Street NE Extension - extend Scarlet Street NE south from 52nd Avenue, connecting it to Sorenson Street.

8-Scarlet-Mosby Connector - build a new roadway connecting the Scarlet Street extension to Mosby Road.

9-Tweedy Boulevard SE Extension - extend Tweedy Boulevard SE from Ashcroft Street to Division Street.

10-Highway 15/Tweedy Boulevard Interchange Study - explore options for improving capacity and access to Chemeketa Regional Airport in conjunction with the Tweedy Blvd extension.

11-Hwy 36/Sorenson Street Interchange - reconfigure the Sorenson Street interchange along Highway 36 to improve capacity and freight mobility.

12-39th/Hudson/Bernard Intersection - realign intersection to better accommodate future industrial development and access to major arterials.

13-Greenwich Avenue NW Study - examine the feasibility of extending Greenwich Avenue NW in North Vivien Heights to meet future capacity demands.

14-15th/16th Avenue Bridge Study - examine the feasibility of building another crossing over the Willamette near the 15th/16th Avenue NE couplet, to better facilitate direct access between the city centers of both Chemeketa and Vivien Heights.

15-99th Avenue NE Widening - widen 99th Avenue between Ashcroft Street to Halpert Road.

16-Bushnell Road/Progress Street NE intersection - realign in conjunction with Chemeketa Parkway Extension (#6).

17-Wallace Road/Murdock Way W intersection - reconfigure intersection to improve capacity.

Hope you enjoyed the mosaicfest and the look at the future projects in Chemeketa.  When Update 74 does arrive, we'll be looking at Project #1 on the list, the Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: samerton on April 04, 2011, 10:08:12 AM
Well.. the mosaicfest has definitely lived up to it's expectations! Amazing!

Very nice suburbs in the second picture!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: Haljackey on April 04, 2011, 06:15:55 PM
Cool mosaics! Really like the second one.. nice C/D you got there!

Nice use of a Google Maps layout! I gotta learn how to do that.

I think you need some road signs.

That is all.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: Ramona Brie on April 04, 2011, 08:41:23 PM
Really nice work! This helps me a lot to understand your cities...

One little nitpick on the new avenue overpasses: if you have a large unused paved area in the middle, it should be crosshatched out. In downtown St. Louis, Missouri, there are some streets that are crosshatched with center medians (at ground level; imagine an AVE-4 with a paved center median). Otherwise, it's a far more realistic improvement over what we have now, and I can't wait to see it in the public's hands.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: j-dub on April 04, 2011, 09:37:58 PM
You meant like this?
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fmutcd.fhwa.dot.gov%2Fhtm%2F2009%2Fimages%2Ffig3b_05.gif&hash=483a49b6ea79c54039dca9096b6a94d9ed7949e6)
(more interesting info at http://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/
the screwy thing is it seemed there was a USA KPH speed circle sign setup as of 2009, but it seems only documented and not a reality)

Majority of the US does use that crosshatch scheme. I have never been anywhere that does not use the diagonal lines down the center. The only time I saw Alex use that scheme was on a piece very similar in length to the ave4 to ave2 transition. There are however, similar pieces with that scheme being made for the RHW-3, I have not seen it for avenue though. At this point however, Alex may have his hands tied from making such a big revision again.

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: RickD on April 05, 2011, 01:06:13 AM
Great Mosaics. They give a good overview of the new roads.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: art128 on April 05, 2011, 07:32:00 AM
Lovely update, Alex ! I really loved these two mosaics there, they show a very great part of the suburbs. The highway and rail line between residential areas is very well done.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: canyonjumper on April 05, 2011, 05:56:05 PM
Great mosaicfest Alex! I liked the suburbs, all nicely done ;D

              Your friend,
                             Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 73--4/3/2011--Chemeketa "Mosaicfest")
Post by: bakerton on April 06, 2011, 07:56:45 AM
Alex, can I live in Chemeketa? (lol) Anyway, nice mosaics and superb city layout. It just gave me some ideas for my region and "big city" which I am thinking of making into a M.D. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor, Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on April 17, 2011, 04:56:06 PM
Hi everyone-

While RL's been busy, I happened to have a little bit ready on the first of the long-term projects I mentioned on the previous update.  But first, replies:

Sam (samerton): Thanks for the kind words--I'm very glad to hear that mosaicfest lived up to expectations, and am also happy to hear you liked the suburbs!

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the compliments on the mosaics and the map!  I'm really pleased to hear you liked the C/D setup in particular.  As far as the Google Maps implementation goes, it's surprisingly simple--I just used the Gmap Uploader (http://gmapuploader.com/) site for that.  It does most of the work . . . there's apparently some additional tie-in to the Google Maps API, too, that I'd like to play around with at some point.  And I agree on the signs . . . started BATing a few up, in fact, though given that there's still going to be even more construction in that corridor and a key route number may be changing once the Chemeketa Parkway is finished, I kind of want to wait until then.

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the kind words on the map--I'm glad it's helped illuminate some of the thought processes going on here, and I hope it provides inspiration for folks!  Regarding the crosshatching, a lot of the markings I use on my textures are inspired by what I'm familiar with from living in Oregon and Central/Eastern Washington (which uses entirely different markings from the western part of the state), and yellow crosshatches here are the exception rather than the rule (here's one prime example (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=Tualatin-Valley+Highway+Beaverton,+OR&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=37.410045,86.572266&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=SW+Tualatin+Valley+Hwy,+Beaverton,+Oregon&ll=45.491203,-122.835973&spn=0.001012,0.002642&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=45.491203,-122.835973&panoid=3R4e7Z_0KjhGKx9wTCEhCA&cbp=12,274.9,,0,17.36)).  The few crosshatches we have tend not to get repainted during restriping projects, either, oddly (see here (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=NW+185th+Avenue+Hillsboro&aq=&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=37.410045,86.572266&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=NW+185th+Ave,+Hillsboro,+Oregon&ll=45.542889,-122.86755&spn=0.008085,0.021136&t=h&z=16&layer=c&cbll=45.542889,-122.86755&panoid=aPiQjXkH_aTXFggS8exY-Q&cbp=12,107.73,,0,12.79)).  Most transportation departments here, whether they be at the state, county or city level, tend to disregard elements marked "optional" in the MUTCD--crosshatches, chevrons on freeway ramps (only one "experimental" one in the entire state, on I-5 in Salem), dashed lines/arrows for lane ends, etc.  From what I've seen, Idaho, Montana and Nevada handle things similarly.  It's really an interesting phenomenon.

That's not to say that some sort of optional addon might not come out at some point, though. :)

j-dub: Thank you for stopping in and contributing to the crosshatch discussion. :)  As you'll note on the MUTCD diagram, the crosshatching is marked "optional" . . . which is basically code for telling ODOT, NDOT, ITD, MDT and WSDOT they can save money on paint. :D  (Road paint prices have actually risen quite a bit recently.)  The reason those RHW-3 and WRHW-2 textures have crosshatches is because they aren't mine.  Different DOT there. :D  As a result, for consistency's sake you'll probably see all default RHW-3/WRHW-2 stuff maintain the crosshatch scheme.

Raphael (RickD): Thank you for the compliments on the mosaics, and I'm glad to hear they were an effective means for displaying all the new roads. :)

Arthur (art128): Thank you for the all-too-kind words!  I'm glad you enjoyed the mosaics and like the parallel highway and rail line--I'm rather pleased with how that came out as well, though as you'll see in future updates, it presents a little bit of an engineering challenge.

Jordan (canyonjumper): Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed mosaicfest and the peek at the suburbs there!

Jon (bakerton):  Hehe . . . it's really too bad it's just a bunch of 0s and 1s on my hard drive.  I'd want to move there as well. :D  Thanks for the compliments on the mosaic and the layout--I'm always thrilled to hear that I've provided inspiration for someone here.

And now onto the update:




The Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, being undertaken by the City of Chemeketa, will streamline the transport networks in the northeastern part of town.  The project consists of two major components: a) an extension of Rankine Lane NE, south from 52nd Avenue NE to Dallas Drive NE, and b) a re-alignment of Dallas Drive NE near its intersection with Sorenson Street NE.

The northeastern side of Chemeketa has undergone heavy development, first beginning with explosive growth in the regional high-tech sector and the construction of several new office parks, followed by increased residential growth, which has greatly impacted traffic patterns and has rendered many existing roadway facilities insufficient.  Here is a map of the project area:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg215.imageshack.us%2Fimg215%2F6990%2Fbeforemap.th.png&hash=0db1a1e2cf0a36713b6b233399ba0d076d0afefd) (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/beforemap.png/)


Rankine Lane is a major arterial in North Chemeketa, running through a busy commercial area and has a southern terminus at 52nd Avenue NE.  In order for motorists to head farther south, they must use 52nd to reach either Aldrin Way NE or Sorenson Street.  This has led to increased traffic congestion and hampered traffic flow on 52nd.  An extension of Rankine to Dallas Drive would alleviate traffic on all surrounding roadways, and allow for better signal timing on 52nd at its signalized intersections with Aldrin and Sorenson. 

Below are images of some of these intersections--as you can see, they're not in great shape.

52nd and Aldrin (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg695.imageshack.us%2Fimg695%2F5174%2Fu741.jpg&hash=e38de8d934c2648eb92ddf558813031211f123cc)

52nd and Rankine (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg836.imageshack.us%2Fimg836%2F1024%2Fu742.jpg&hash=ee06ea5923c96bd84cf75b83b24077a80526aa2e)

52nd and Sorenson (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F3913%2Fu743.jpg&hash=59bc5efbf55eaf447e675ce312d49f0a4a942baf)

Along the south end of the project area, in order to streamline north-south travel, intersection of Dallas Drive and Sorenson Street will be reconfigured to prioritize traffic on Dallas, by aligning the southern leg of Sorenson to create a direct connection with Dallas, and having the northern leg of Sorenson intersect it.

This is the existing Sorenson/Dallas intersection (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg824.imageshack.us%2Fimg824%2F6679%2Fu744.jpg&hash=90ca266bb823c2c9e93eccdc153ea4025a0fb36c)

Contractors are already at work along the northern component of the project--the Rankine Lane extension.  This is at the 52nd Avenue intersection, where dirt movement has begun (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg855.imageshack.us%2Fimg855%2F2844%2Fu745.jpg&hash=ffde410bc2a77e4c3ea59cb594411377109b3acc)

This is where Rankine Lane will intersect Dallas Drive (facing north). 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg14.imageshack.us%2Fimg14%2F1894%2Fu746.jpg&hash=d78a36cecbe813b26c3cbc9bba37ec41ae39aca6)

We'll see the rest of the Rankine extension next update, and turn our focus to the reconfiguration/realignment of Dallas Drive and Sorenson Street to the south.

Bulldozers have already started turning up some earth along the new alignment (facing north).  The roadway seen here is Dallas Drive.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg683.imageshack.us%2Fimg683%2F3708%2Fu747.jpg&hash=27c27ad0dcba2899213f5de027575bc01b153c04)

You can get a rough idea of where the realignment will connect into existing Sorenson Street from this image (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg225.imageshack.us%2Fimg225%2F6493%2Fu748.jpg&hash=b81b0e6114cee0c2624f51839dc5119b17db3eb5)

In order to facilitate the construction of the new connection, Dallas Drive is closed at the big curve (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F1985%2Fu749.jpg&hash=116e93051367e840301f2dc66e39084933b7cb2f) 

The short stretch of existing Dallas Drive west of the curve is being re-aligned as well (facing north).  It will serve as a connection to the northern segment of Sorenson Street, and will eventually be extended east to Mosby Road NE once the area is developed.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg688.imageshack.us%2Fimg688%2F979%2Fu7410.jpg&hash=444f5f6d8a3c9b25b7286a174fee90f419a705e9)

The construction on Dallas is now complete, and the intersection is in place (facing north).  The southern leg is not connected yet, and will tie into the realigned southern segment of Sorenson Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg838.imageshack.us%2Fimg838%2F1301%2Fu7411.jpg&hash=32d7a2f445db2a9f1f3615a65343bce75f492503)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F1760%2Fu7412.jpg&hash=18c7a37a73234cf3be6a107a041af1ebad23a3de)

Here, the new alignment of the south segment of Sorenson has been completed (facing north), with the old alignment dead-ending.  Access to the northern leg is now possible using the re-aligned western portion of Dallas Drive.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F962%2Fu7413.jpg&hash=cf4d41c13336ed6e98e6daa1fca8b82dbddba75b)

And finally, an overview of the completed Dallas/Sorenson re-alignment project (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg715.imageshack.us%2Fimg715%2F2025%2Fu7414.jpg&hash=13b905fd5e54d99ee1eb94242c165d061d69f1ca)

I hope you've enjoyed this latest installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . we'll take a look at the remainder of the Rankine extension to Dallas Drive next time.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: Nego on April 17, 2011, 05:22:01 PM
Nice update today, Tarkus. :thumbsup: It's nice to see other parts of Chemeketa and its surrounding areas. The realignment project seems to be coming along great! Can't wait for the next update! ;)

PS. Sorry I didn't reply to your last update. I was busy with RL.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: Exla357 on April 17, 2011, 05:31:12 PM
Fantastic job with the maps as always &apls, they really help to describe what's going on and keep the viewer from getting lost. I must say that this MD is one of my favorites, the one that I look for every time I log onto SC4D to see if it has been updated! ;D I like the use of generic construction pictures and how you update regularly, not so much as one has to read 4 updates in 5 days, but not too little that one has to wait a year for the next one. And, you put in the perfect amount of content in each update as well......not to much that the reader gets bored but not to little that an update is over before you scroll down; there are very few MDs like this that I have seen. You have certainly earned your place in the MD Hall Of Fame! &apls Keep up the good work! :thumbsup:
-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: bat on April 18, 2011, 01:51:55 AM
Your updates are always great!
Nice work on this update... :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: Terring7 on April 18, 2011, 04:19:21 AM
I think you may need some robotic construction machines, to speed up the construction ;D
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thevenusproject.com%2Fimages%2Fstories%2Fconst3.jpg&hash=751b72d5c1ae388db609c81d025ca1b7c75e4c22)

Keep it up :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: samerton on April 18, 2011, 01:28:29 PM
Great construction update as always! Looking forward to the next update!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: bakerton on April 19, 2011, 02:21:36 PM
Nice looking update Alex.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on April 20, 2011, 04:45:19 PM
OK. Most AZ freeways don't have chevrons at their gore points, either.

What they DO have (at least the ones built in the last 15 years or so) are very ornate sound walls and overpass designs, as well as freewayside crushed granite-scaping. For instance, there's a freeway where all the overpasses are a Sedona red color; one with a brown and purple scheme; etc., etc.

I like the update but wonder why that one stub of the old street was not trimmed back to turn off on that other one (in the last picture) to save money...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: metarvo on April 20, 2011, 07:57:17 PM
It looks like that will smooth the traffic out fairly well.  I wonder what's up with the smoke in that first pic, though.  I'm going to speculate a little.  Maybe it's a series of bad wrecks, or it might be concealing a transportation-related secret of some kind.  Good update, Alex!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 74--4/17/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 1)
Post by: noahclem on May 30, 2011, 12:32:49 PM
Sorry I forgot to comment on the mosaic fest! Very nice  &apls

Also an interesting view of upcoming projects. Of course the RHW-related ones have my interest piqued the most  ;D

And of course, a nicely thought out and executed realignment of thoroughfares in the northeastern part of Chemeketa!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: Tarkus on June 03, 2011, 11:42:32 AM
Hi everyone-

It's that time again . . . another update of Tarkusian Cities is upon us.  We'll be back to the Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project for Part 2.

But first, replies:

Nego: Hey, no worries about RL . . . happens to all of us. :)  Thanks for the compliments--I'm glad enjoyed the latest construction and seeing a different part of Chemeketa . . . I'll be bouncing around a fair bit in coming updates--might even bounce to another as-of-yet unseen region before too long.

Alex (Exla357): Thank you for the very kind words!  I'm really thrilled you're enjoying Tarkusian Cities, and that the maps and such are indeed proving useful. My apologies for the slowdown on the updates (good old RL), but I hope you find this one fills the void, and hopefully, I'll be able to get back to a more steady stream here.

bat: Thank you, my friend--I appreciate the compliments. :)

Elias (Terring7): Hehe . . . that's quite the contraption there.  While ORDOT is pretty well-funded, I'm not sure they can afford it. :D  Thanks for the kind words and encouragement. :thumbsup:

Sam (samerton): Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the construction . . . there will be even more this time around.

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the kind words! :)

Raymie (Tracker): Those sound like some nice roadside details on those freeways . . . I've been checking the Phoenix area out on StreetView a fair bit and have been impressed with the transport systems there.  A lot of SPUIs. ;D  Thanks for the kind words on the update and for posing an interesting question . . . I'd suspect the reason that roadway wasn't trimmed back was because there's plans to eventually extend that roadway again with a new alignment, into a new residential development.

metarvo: Thank you for the compliments on the update!  Yes, it's already started to smooth traffic out some . . . Part 2 will take it a step further.  And the smoke is indeed from wrecks . . . 52nd Avenue is a mess and slowly but surely, it's getting fixed.  Nothing too secret there really to hide . . . the City of Chemeketa doesn't have any plans to put any SecretNetwork in there. $%Grinno$%  Though you might see some new NWM stuff . . .

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad you enjoyed mosaicfest and the "preview" of sorts on the upcoming projects . . . the RHW-related ones will be quite fun indeed.  Hope you enjoy the continuation of our little construction sojourn up to northeastern Chemeketa. :)




When we last left off, the City of Chemeketa had completed Part 1 of the Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project--hooking Sorenson Street NE into Dallas Drive NE to provide better access to some of the new office park developments in that area.  We'll be looking at the work on the north side of the corridor, where Rankine Lane NE will be connected into Dallas Drive.

As you can see here, Dallas Drive has been closed off at the project site (facing north)--the bit to the left side of the first image is where grading is underway on the Rankine Ln extension.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg834.imageshack.us%2Fimg834%2F4127%2Fu751.jpg&hash=62911b6a9607c2907b4265f8e5918b417d896487)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg402.imageshack.us%2Fimg402%2F6903%2Fu752.jpg&hash=9b4715f254e59d9c61f36133e41a37a9b4191327)

Because of the odd intersection geometry where Rankine will intersect Dallas, the city has decided to construct a roundabout here--it will be the city's first multi-lane roundabout (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F2344%2Fu753.jpg&hash=394e0c755e02848b4f98b3466cc2109cd07a6a1d)

Dallas Drive will be widened slightly south of the roundabout (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg52.imageshack.us%2Fimg52%2F1273%2Fu754.jpg&hash=e7bcd11d199e6b8efbeda90352c510b6fee12c21)

Paving work is underway (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg88.imageshack.us%2Fimg88%2F4617%2Fu755.jpg&hash=ec5ac6e75a7412edb404ce05b86db31ed43f1663)

A look at progress on the Rankine Ln extension at the intersection with 52nd Avenue (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg217.imageshack.us%2Fimg217%2F4452%2Fu756.jpg&hash=47d16de9c87e33b548c35c4a19d8b9a5a967859b)

More paving and roadway reconstruction along Dallas Drive (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg832.imageshack.us%2Fimg832%2F5658%2Fu757.jpg&hash=a50d39d58b37eab3a8401b5f7ddc6f73eeee7c74)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3285%2Fu758.jpg&hash=b09292bfb1bccb7ec607a9d53470e7658b4f146e)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg137.imageshack.us%2Fimg137%2F3668%2Fu759.jpg&hash=ecc48474a40b49ea10fc2fccebd09a6b20545dfe)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg847.imageshack.us%2Fimg847%2F3006%2Fu7510.jpg&hash=55026ab58bc5788f2ffcdbe65fa17957c1eb8f92)

A broader overview of the current progress (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg36.imageshack.us%2Fimg36%2F7098%2Fu7511.jpg&hash=0d61c04a924236b5c56b9468beb6e77bbcc51fc1)

Work continues on the 52nd Avenue end (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F9886%2Fu7513.jpg&hash=3c8f12e976a5962dba8bd99c35fdee53b6039d7a)

Getting ready to fully connect Rankine into the roundabout (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg51.imageshack.us%2Fimg51%2F5828%2Fu7514.jpg&hash=daaa35e516e13af6ac4a9d0cd8b06ee2e52f65f4)

The extension is almost ready to be connected into the 52nd Avenue intersection (facing north).  As the engineering studies showed there would be a very large volume of right turns off 52nd Avenue eastbound onto the new section of Rankine Lane southbound, a slip lane is being constructed.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg714.imageshack.us%2Fimg714%2F728%2Fu7515.jpg&hash=8118f58aca56dcd1b9f5cbceee3fbde54601b356)

The roundabout's all connected up (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg838.imageshack.us%2Fimg838%2F883%2Fu7516.jpg&hash=689425876c2e074ff960acb85f2099ebe84f5857)

And now the Rankine Lane extension is completed and opened up to traffic (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F1898%2Fu7517.jpg&hash=ec01df6735da96b0480ef67fd0e5c53758d56e3f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg233.imageshack.us%2Fimg233%2F4629%2Fu7518.jpg&hash=8cc99b9d7f46b079f1580fc1500e8468d34ce1c5)

For comparison, here are before and after maps of the corridor:

Before
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg215.imageshack.us%2Fimg215%2F6990%2Fbeforemap.th.png&hash=0db1a1e2cf0a36713b6b233399ba0d076d0afefd) (http://img215.imageshack.us/i/beforemap.png/)

After
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F671%2Faftermap.th.png&hash=82584db3c21c72f1f865bdebe811ae59b1810329) (http://img19.imageshack.us/i/aftermap.png/)

That does it for this latest installment of Tarkusian Cities . . . we'll be taking a brief look at some other minor projects in the immediate vicinity of this one next time.  Hope you enjoyed it!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: noahclem on June 03, 2011, 12:32:50 PM
Very nice! I'm pretty sure that's the first roundabout of any kind I've seen in Chemeketa, but it seems like a perfect solution as you've said "given the geometry of the area".

Looking forward to more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: art128 on June 03, 2011, 01:53:04 PM
That new crossing looks fine I must say, great work!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: Exla357 on June 03, 2011, 07:51:05 PM
Nice job with this one! The realignment maps look really nice, and once again proved usesful  :thumbsup:. I'm eagerly awaiting what's next, hopefully it won't be too long haha  :D.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: supremec on June 04, 2011, 12:52:58 AM
Wow very good I like the progression of your road installations &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: bat on June 04, 2011, 01:59:30 AM
Another great update!
Looking forward to update 76! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: jacksunny on June 04, 2011, 06:11:17 AM
Hoping we would get a look at SecretNetwork in update 75, but it's good anyway  &apls I like how it gradually goes along building the new roads instead of just saying "Here is the new road" and that's it.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: bakerton on June 05, 2011, 03:06:53 PM
Interesting and nice update Alex. Waiting for the next update. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 75--6/3/2011--Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project, Part 2)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 05, 2011, 03:51:31 PM
Nice work! And we're in page 60!

P.S. I think you might be interested in this, Tarkus. They have new roundabout interchanges too around here. I've actually been through this one. It's very well signed, with almost British-style chevron signage.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=&aq=&sll=33.430152,-111.641006&sspn=0.041259,0.077162&ie=UTF8&t=h&rq=1&ev=zo&split=1&filter=0&radius=2.67&hq=&hnear=&ll=33.43676,-111.650566&spn=0.003647,0.004823&z=18

Here's a literal "pre-interchange". Search "Loop 101 and 64th Street". Kind of a waste, huh?

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=&aq=&sll=33.430152,-111.641006&sspn=0.041259,0.077162&ie=UTF8&t=h&rq=1&ev=zo&split=1&filter=0&radius=2.67&hq=&hnear=&ll=33.661693,-111.942068&spn=0.005144,0.009645&z=17
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: Tarkus on June 06, 2011, 11:21:08 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back again with another update . . . as the road crews were already in the vicinity, the City of Chemeketa's decided to make a few little improvements near the recently completed Rankine-Dallas Corridor Project.

But first, replies:

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, I'm glad to hear it was to your liking! :)  Actually, that roundabout was the fifth to go in Chemeketa.  I haven't shown the other four yet . . . they're all in that same city tile--one in a residential area at 62nd and Scarlet, the others in the big high-tech industrial area east of Highway 15.  I find they really work really well for those weird intersections like that, and you'll see something along the same lines come Update 78. In RL, I have mixed feelings on them, which have generally become more positive over time . . . they work great in situations with weird geometry and priority--but I've seen a few around these parts that have earned an eyebrow raise, too. :D

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the kind words--I appreciate it!

Alex (Exla357): Thanks, I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the update and found the maps useful.  There will be mappage this time around again, too. :thumbsup:  And hopefully, 3 days wasn't too long of a wait.

supremec: Thanks, I'm very pleased to hear you enjoyed the "progress" aspect of the construction--there will be more of that to come. :)

bat: Thanks for the kind words, my friend--hope you find this update to your liking as well. :)

Jack (jacksunny): Yeah, SecretNetwork didn't really fit into my plans with Chemeketa . . . though you'll still see some interesting unreleased stuff come about . . . oh . . . a few updates from now.  And thanks for the compliments on the approach--I've always enjoyed the nitty-gritty aspect of planning these things out, and I'm always thrilled to hear from like-minded folks.

Jon (bakerton): Thanks, my friend--hopefully Update 76 will prove equally interesting for you. :)

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks, I appreciate the kind words!  That is indeed an intriguing intersection . . . I've run across a few of those in Arizona on my StreetView sojourns.  As gung-ho as certain municipalities are on roundabouts here in Oregon (Bend ::)), I'm surprised they haven't popped up here yet.  Might have to see about getting the proper tools to recreate that in SC4, too.  And I'd concur on that Loop 101/64th Street interchange . . . seems a bit close to the 56th Street one (weaving hazard, ADOT?), and a little surprising they don't have that all cordoned off in its current state. 

Now, onto the update:




This "minor" project will widen Dallas Drive NE between the Rankine Lane Roundabout and Aldrin Way NE, as well as the section of Aldrin Way NE from just south of Dallas Drive up to 52nd Avenue NE.  The intersections at Dallas/Aldrin and Aldrin/52nd will also be improved accordingly.  Here's the "after" map from the last update again, which should prove useful in terms of getting one's bearings for this update.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F671%2Faftermap.th.png&hash=82584db3c21c72f1f865bdebe811ae59b1810329) (http://img19.imageshack.us/i/aftermap.png/)

This is looking west at the project area.  The main thoroughfare running through there is 52nd Avenue.  The intersection in the upper left (by the office tower) is Aldrin and Dallas.  As you can see, there's some construction going on around the office tower--some additional commercial office development is occurring in that vicinity, which is part of the reason for the road improvements.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg830.imageshack.us%2Fimg830%2F8633%2Fu761.jpg&hash=90f87f5981246187e928ab1e6980df499d4623a9)

A closer up view (facing west).  As you can see, the Aldrin/Dallas intersection is pretty jammed up.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg849.imageshack.us%2Fimg849%2F9378%2Fu762.jpg&hash=c9668b3f0364aafb6ae5110fd2955e6b109974ac)

The building's parking lot is being reconfigured (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg839.imageshack.us%2Fimg839%2F4904%2Fu763.jpg&hash=071034ab192f049e56f826881f6f2d66254fe28b)

Widening preparation is underway on Aldrin (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg846.imageshack.us%2Fimg846%2F61%2Fu765.jpg&hash=64c47b071bcdff534d2e53f87d29ee87219c9de8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg151.imageshack.us%2Fimg151%2F4531%2Fu766.jpg&hash=d10a4e71641a8c810389d6bed2d7798650069d46)

A segment of Aldrin north of 52nd is getting widened, too (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg84.imageshack.us%2Fimg84%2F3294%2Fu767.jpg&hash=b7f70440b7087637518875ae03a8ca07a7ca767a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg51.imageshack.us%2Fimg51%2F9159%2Fu768.jpg&hash=3857f5454ca4894f5f2eeb71e8409675c1e74b19)

Here's the Aldrin/Dallas intersection again, with Aldrin now widened to 4 travel lanes (facing north).  As you can see, the parking lot expansion's been progressing steadily, too.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F5332%2Fu769.jpg&hash=c9e908e8b15541739907c9a4734922c7d03dee35)

And here's the widened Dallas and the nice new signalized intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg829.imageshack.us%2Fimg829%2F9071%2Fu7610.jpg&hash=56f5156375cb243cd25d8f9415e494fc663a63d2)

Here's that intersection up close and personal (facing north), with a teaser of an off-again/on-again project.  I made some new animated signals, and mounted them onto a mast arm assembly from my good friend Ryan B..  One of these days, I'd like to finish them up, though obviously, getting the next NAM/RHW/NWM cycle taken care of is my top priority.  You'll probably see these appear sporadically in coming updates, however.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg545.imageshack.us%2Fimg545%2F9119%2Fu7611.jpg&hash=1b5d03ee13e51c40684cee36f58764b227cf2fe6)

The parking lot has some imperial-expansionist tendencies, apparently (facing north).  :D  Due to the sheer amount of traffic that will eventually be going in and out of it, another entrance/exit point is being added to hook it into the Dallas/Rankine roundabout.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg593.imageshack.us%2Fimg593%2F8685%2Fu7612.jpg&hash=17e9337a21a23a3e967596a76eb5bdd20acaadaa)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F5805%2Fu7613.jpg&hash=92f5399601089c85214f831ed06efc5619dccaf3)

And that does it for this update.  We'll be tackling a few smaller improvements and checking out some new development in Chemeketa and Vivien Heights over the next handful of updates, before delving into the big 52nd Avenue widening project.  Hope you enjoyed this one!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: noahclem on June 07, 2011, 07:45:19 AM
Another nice solution for the local road networks! Those signals are looking very nice as well.

On the topic of roundabouts, I agree that they can be especially useful to resolve problem geometry, including both poorly aligned roads and even 5- and 6-way intersections. They also can add some character to an area and slow traffic a bit in parks and pedestrian areas. The biggest problem in American situations is probably what you've mentioned before--unfamiliar drivers not signalling correctly.

Glad to see you more prolific in the MD world lately!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: bat on June 07, 2011, 08:26:54 AM
That's fantastic!
Looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: bakerton on June 08, 2011, 08:01:04 AM
Alex, you are right; I did get inspried with this latest updaye. The new stoplights you have look great and look simular to the new ones that are being put up in my area of Wisconsin and I do hope that you work out the bugs and release them to the puplic with a nod to the original modder. Looking forward to the next update. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: Exla357 on June 08, 2011, 03:41:29 PM
Glad to see this MD's gotten back into the swing. No, 3 days was actually too short of a wait because I was off the computer for as many days and missed an update!  :angrymore: It's all good though.

I really like what you've done here. Everything seems pretty realistic. One question: Do you purposely build your cities with infrastructure problems so that you'll have something to improve  :D?

-Alex  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 76--6/6/2011--Aldrin Way/Dallas Drive Improvements)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 08, 2011, 05:09:51 PM
That is a very nice minor update. *wishes there was a project to widen something to AVE-6*
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Tarkus on June 15, 2011, 12:21:55 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with another update here, which I think you'll really enjoy.  Suffice to say, it's road construction season!  But first, replies:

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words on the improvements and the signals!  It's good to be back at this again more regularly--hopefully, I'll be able to keep some steady momentum here now. :)

bat: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it, and that you find this update to your liking!

Jon (bakerton): Thank you for the kind words, and I'm thrilled to hear I've inspired you.  I'm glad to hear you like the new signals . . . and judging by some of the recent signal/RR-crossing modding breakthroughs by my friend and colleague jondor, I'm sure you'll see a fair bit more activity on that front. :thumbsup:

Alex (Exla357): Thanks you for the compliments on the update--it's good to be back (and sorry about sneaking one out while you were away ::)).  As far as the infrastructure problems go, while I generally don't purposely seek to create them, they can happen to an extent when I'm simply putting things in place while initially building up a region.  As things fill in, it usually becomes apparent where improvements are needed.  Plus, even when I do have things optimized, I still have a tendency to keep tearing things up--Argentum was bordering on the ridiculous in that regard. :D

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks--I'm glad you found the minor update to your liking.  And I have five words for you.  We.  Like.  To.  Surprise.  People. ;)




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
52nd Avenue NE Widening, Phase 1 (Mosby to Halpert)

The City of Chemeketa's Department of Public Works is beginning the process of improving 52nd Avenue NE in order to better facilitate the movement of commuters and freight traffic in North and Northeast Chemeketa.  As shown on the long-term project map (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/uwr9fZyGVr) from April, this project is marked as #4. 

Alternate link to map:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg836.imageshack.us%2Fimg836%2F3669%2Fchemeketamapu73.th.png&hash=85bc3927b57ee6e0cce5bb30e4c3415d452aa709) (http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/3669/chemeketamapu73.png)

As discussed in the development of previous projects, 52nd Ave NE is a major east-west surface arterial through the northern reaches of the city, connecting the predominantly residential areas to the west, up with the high-tech facilities and office parks to the east, as well as providing a link between the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 219) and the West Oregon Freeway (Highway 15).  The development on the east end has led to substantially increased traffic congestion on the section between Ashcroft Street NE and Halpert Road NE.  While recent projects, including the Rankine-Sorenson Corridor Project and the Aldrin Way improvements have mitigated some of the issues along 52nd Ave, the road is still failing to meet an appropriate Level of Service (LOS).

Between the Chemeketa Parkway and Schrute Road NE, 52nd Ave is currently a 4-lane roadway with speed limits ranging between 35 and 50 miles per hour.  The results of the study performed by the city and outside consultants has shown that in order to handle 2020 capacity levels with an acceptable LOS, much of the road needs to be widened to 6 lanes.  The segment in particular need of such an upgrade is between Ashcroft Street to Halpert Road.  Studies are still underway as to the efficacy of extending the lane additions westward toward the Chemeketa Parkway interchange.

In order to make the best use of funding and minimize disruption along all of 52nd, the project will be undertaken in phases, beginning with the eastern segment, between Mosby Road and Halpert Road.  The second and third phases have yet to be funded.  Phase 2 will cover the segment from Scarlet Street NE to Mosby Road, while Phase 3 will extend from Ashcroft to Scarlet.  If studies determine it is necessary, a Phase 4 would cover from the Chemeketa Parkway to Ashcroft.

Here is the existing intersection with Scott Drive NE and the Highway 15 Northbound Ramps:

Facing east
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg829.imageshack.us%2Fimg829%2F8817%2Fu771.jpg&hash=14ba7277d64ef2695960ccc3bc26d14da3541974)

Facing north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F2148%2Fu777.jpg&hash=a6abd5ed616fc50ea303ed8df1fce08def985bdc)

This is the existing intersection at Halpert Road NE (facing east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg195.imageshack.us%2Fimg195%2F1505%2Fu772.jpg&hash=1f401a3c0588bc62d7ead09d6a74aaed8e500f9b)

Here is the existing Highway 15 overpass:

Facing east
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F7956%2Fu773.jpg&hash=96ca5971d4c728e27f26e3d20bea984c618653b3)

Facing north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg14.imageshack.us%2Fimg14%2F2511%2Fu776.jpg&hash=1f3de07f69b2097652d7d087441aa2730c61665d)

Construction begins.  52nd has been narrowed to 3 lanes while excavation takes place.

At Scott Drive, facing north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg137.imageshack.us%2Fimg137%2F4103%2Fu778.jpg&hash=cee9b6dc946419a6347e1a9687004a7485898585)

At Highway 15, facing north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg689.imageshack.us%2Fimg689%2F8933%2Fu779.jpg&hash=fbe0d868cba77f770c5e8a724df949d299c835b9)

At Mosby Road, facing north
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F2702%2Fu7710.jpg&hash=a535f9434275afa6caa4d9fa9c65b9c3d8e8d085)

Here are various images of construction already underway.

Facing north at Mosby and Highway 15
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F5408%2Fu7711.jpg&hash=0fbcf3d542dad7867955d03892bc7a7c99b58628)

Facing west from Scott Drive toward Highway 15 along 52nd
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg84.imageshack.us%2Fimg84%2F7451%2Fu7712.jpg&hash=cd3e42082d553fde74952a761f26eb0e67548472)

Paving underway, facing west
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg856.imageshack.us%2Fimg856%2F9224%2Fu7715.jpg&hash=2b3e33fc066588061a160e8944b16c8bd0a08dc3)

Facing south at the 52nd/Scott intersection
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F7581%2Fu7716.jpg&hash=0f22f7cd646dac1e6735c7cdaa2fc79fa8ede0f1)

The widened roadway is now in place under Highway 15 (facing north).  (If you're wondering how I got the T21s, I tweaked jackxu's AVE-2 median mod on the AVE-6.  These will not be in the public NWM release.)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg821.imageshack.us%2Fimg821%2F9831%2Fu7717.jpg&hash=650476502392ccc65eb54dd2a64875da8eb704c5)

A look along 52nd after construction (facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg856.imageshack.us%2Fimg856%2F8986%2Fu7718.jpg&hash=ce1603944d821e0588bfa2b1d75a052655008413)

Turn lanes going in place at the Mosby intersection (facing north).  Signals have not yet been installed.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg695.imageshack.us%2Fimg695%2F1724%2Fu7719.jpg&hash=f85e4c68c790abe6af13fbafcd65c1db952829f2)

And that does it for this update.  While the city accumulates more funding for Phase 2, we'll take a look at the McCabe Street extension next time.  Hope you enjoyed this latest project!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on June 15, 2011, 02:25:15 AM


Excellent work Alex!! &apls

I would know if AVE-6 has its own T21 props or not. If not, release that jackxu's modified work, please. :thumbsup:

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: io_bg on June 15, 2011, 08:02:29 AM
Nice work on widening that road, I like the look of the AVE-6 and those advanced TULEPs I spotted ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: noahclem on June 15, 2011, 09:06:26 AM
Nice reconstruction on 52nd Ave NE!  &apls I really like those median T21s and would also love to see them released. The interchange is well laid out and those old advanced TuLEPs are sweet. I also always enjoy checking out your map--can I ask how you create them?

Looking forward to more  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: bat on June 15, 2011, 09:48:57 AM
Your updates are always great!
Looking forward to phase 2...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Exla357 on June 15, 2011, 10:25:19 AM
Phase one is looking great here. I'm glad you aren't (yet) copying your NAM buddies by purposley showing off a rediculous amount of new RHW stuff...although I must admit I'm drooling over the AVE-6. Does it come with it's own T21 props or did the guy who made the Median for Ave-2 get a Mod done for this too?

Whatever the state of NAM 30, I'm really glad to see you're MD back on the grid and, funny, my regions turn out that same way too. When I rebuild something, I'll just put the game on pause, bulldoze everything, and rebuild it from scratch.  :D
Lookin' forward to more!

-[The "Other"] Alex  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 15, 2011, 11:44:50 AM
Do release that mod separately. It's not Arizona palm trees and shrubs in the median, but then again, I use the Olympic terrain (for some reason).

P.S. Let me guess: no signals = they have not been T21'd yet?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: rhwfanatic221 on June 16, 2011, 07:19:42 AM
Wow the Ave 6 looks really cool w/the T21 mod there... I hope somewhow tht can get released whenever the next nam comes :D I also was curious about if tht non-signalized intersection was T21'd for traffic lights or one where there's an option not to have a traffic light? Although as busy as tht would be to cross I'm assuming it's just not finished w/all tht.

Anyways awesome work, love it as always  :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: sc-4 on June 16, 2011, 07:37:07 AM
Fantastic MD Alex , I never came here , so I've bookmarked your MD and I will read all the page later.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: bakerton on June 16, 2011, 07:52:38 AM
Nice job Alex. Everything looks great and of course, inspiring. Glad to hear about stop lights front. Looking out for some more updates from you. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: RickD on June 20, 2011, 06:59:22 AM
Wow, so many updates while I have been on vacation.
The avenue looks excellent.  :thumbsup: And I really didn't expect the roundabout in the previous updates but it looks like a good solution for this situation.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: travismking on June 20, 2011, 02:02:00 PM
wow I wish I could be an NAM tester, that AVE-6 looks so lovely I cant wait for it to be released, Nice update Alex :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Nego on June 20, 2011, 02:39:49 PM
Another fantastic update here, Tarkus! &apls Though all of the use of NWM & TuLEPs v2.0 are making me jealous. :P Can't wait for the release of the next versions of those mods.

Also, can't wait for your next update! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: ivo_su on June 20, 2011, 04:20:44 PM
Can I be less critical, at risk to incur the hostility of  many people.  I can not believe he would utter these words heretical AVE-6 but not especially like.
1. medians does not seem normal and aesthetically not fit somehow. And I saw lights in the middle between the lanes.
2. textures themselves do not like, mainly because the white line to the sidewalk. And what is its purpose and can not understand. Borrowed is MAVE-4 but why not just add another lane to the AVE-4 and Make biggest medians ?
Sorry that Alex did not say anything nice  but nadyadam not be angry with me  if I was with my constructive  criticism  to my lighter. I really like  your work  and try  to say  what I think  the most  constructive way.


Ivo
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 20, 2011, 08:09:57 PM
Quote from: ivo_su on June 20, 2011, 04:20:44 PM
Can I be less critical, at risk to incur the hostility of  many people.  I can not believe he would utter these words heretical AVE-6 but not especially like.
1. medians does not seem normal and aesthetically not fit somehow. And I saw lights in the middle between the lanes.
2. textures themselves do not like, mainly because the white line to the sidewalk. And what is its purpose and can not understand. Borrowed is MAVE-4 but why not just add another lane to the AVE-4 and Make biggest medians ?
Sorry that Alex did not say anything nice  but nadyadam not be angry with me  if I was with my constructive  criticism  to my lighter. I really like  your work  and try  to say  what I think  the most  constructive way.

Ivo

The white line is probably a bike lane. Most AZ major arterials (many of which are AVE-6 or TLA-7) have that.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: jdenm8 on June 20, 2011, 08:20:39 PM
Most ikely a Bike Lane or parking, neither of which are uncommon here.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: ivo_su on June 20, 2011, 10:24:30 PM
Especially interesting as an idea if the parking would accept it but if a bike lane I think it would be suicide. Maybe when your drivers are more tolerant but if here in Sofia is such a bicycle lane on a busy boulevard so I'm sure every day will have 3-4 dead rider.

Ivo
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: woodb3kmaster on June 20, 2011, 11:05:21 PM
Quote from: ivo_su on June 20, 2011, 10:24:30 PM
Especially interesting as an idea if the parking would accept it but if a bike lane I think it would be suicide. Maybe when your drivers are more tolerant but if here in Sofia is such a bicycle lane on a busy boulevard so I'm sure every day will have 3-4 dead rider.

Ivo
Believe me, bike lanes are much safer here in the US. Most of the avenues with bike lanes that Tracker mentioned (and which I'm sure inspired Alex/Tarkus in designing the AVE-6 textures) are in the suburbs, where there's less danger to bicyclists from passing drivers.

Terrific stuff once again, Alex! Let me join the others who have expressed interest in seeing that AVE-6 T21 mod released; I'd love to make use of it once NWM 2.0 is out. Looking forward to more great updates from Chemeketa!

Zack
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 21, 2011, 09:32:36 AM
Here is a rather close to home example: Ray Road, an arterial street:

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Ray+Road&hl=en&ll=33.31997,-111.91989&spn=0.000913,0.001717&sll=33.320017,-111.920706&sspn=0.000913,0.001717&t=h&radius=0.06&z=20

Ray Road is very typical of the types of arterials that AVE-6 aims to create.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Buzzit on June 21, 2011, 01:06:22 PM
wow looks awesome!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 78--6/23/2011--Chemeketa: McCabe St Extension)
Post by: Tarkus on June 23, 2011, 01:56:36 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back here with another smaller construction project in Chemeketa, which the city is undertaking with impact fees gleaned from developers while it acquires funding to finish widening 52nd Avenue.  But first, replies:

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks for the compliments!  The AVE-6 probably won't come with a T21 median setup by default with the new NWM, but I do plan on checking with jackxu to see if he'd be interested in adding these files to his.

Ioan (io_bg): Thanks for the kind words on the widening--I'm glad to hear you like the looks of the AVE-6 and the TuLEP-age. :)

Noah (noahclem):  Thanks for the compliments!  I'm glad you enjoyed the construction, the interchange there at Highway 15 and the peek at the Advanced TuLEPs!  I do plan to look into making the medians available down the road, too.  As far as the maps go, I did a tutorial on my process for Update 21 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg111886#msg111886)--hope you find it useful!

bat: Thank you for the very kind words, and I hope you enjoy Phase 2 and the little "detour" we're taking this time.

[The Other] Alex (Exla357): Thanks for the kind words on the update--I'm glad Phase 1 was to your liking, and I don't think I'll have too much teasing of unreleased content here . . . though a secret weapon might make an cameo in a few updates. ::)  And I'm also glad to hear I'm not the only one constantly tearing his cities apart. :D  As far as the median goes, I tweaked the AVE-2 mod for use on the AVE-6 just out of curiosity, to see if it'd line up good--turns out it does. :)

Raymie (Tracker): Definitely will be looking into it. :thumbsup:  Thanks for the compliments on how the medians came out--though I can't take full credit there.  And good guess on the signalization bit there.  :D   They are actually signalized now, however. ::)  (And thanks for jumping in and answering some questions! :thumbsup:)

rhwfanatic221:  Thanks for the kind words on the update and on the AVE-6!  It'll definitely be in the NWM Version 2.0 release.  To answer your question on the TuLEP intersection signalization, the intersection with the AVE-6 TuLEPs shown last time will have signals on it upon release.  We are looking into eventually having some non-signalized TuLEPs intersections down the road (pun intended) sometime, though. (And by the way, nice username! ;D)

sc-4: Thanks for the very kind words!  I'm glad you enjoyed the update, and I hope you're enjoying reading through everything. :)

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the compliments on the update--hope this latest update proves just as inspiring! :thumbsup:

Ralphael (RickD):  Thanks for the kind words on the Avenue and the roundabout--it does come as a bit of a surprise given that I haven't typically used them, but you'll be seeing quite a few more here in Chemeketa in coming updates.  Hope you had a great vacation, too, by the way! :)

travismking: Thanks for the all-too-kind words on the update and the AVE-6--I'm really glad you enjoyed this latest installment!  I'm definitely looking forward to the day when you all can enjoy the triple-tile networks, too. :)

Nego: Thanks for the compliments on the update and the new content!  We're inching toward the point where jealousy will turn into elation. ;D  And congratulations on making Post #1200--you'll be getting "on the map". :thumbsup:

Ivo (ivo_su): The median T21s here were kind of an experiment of sorts . . . the landscaping seen there is actually fairly typical of these types of roads here in Oregon.  Because of how the network is set up (sharing outer tiles with the TLA-7), the streetlights will probably be on the outer edges next to the sidewalk.  As far as the textures go, the white line areas can be thought of either as shoulders (to accommodate wider vehicles) or bike lanes, which, again, are fairly typical around these parts, and they help keep the sidewalks from becoming too large.

jdenm8: Thanks for jumping in and answering questions! :thumbsup:  I did indeed have bike lanes in mind.

Zack (woodb3kmaster): Thanks for the all-too-kind words on the update!  I'll definitely be looking into making the AVE-6 T21s available (especially with as much interest as there is).  And thanks for jumping into help answer the bike lane/shoulder debate--bike lanes are indeed pretty common here on roads like that.  Hope you enjoy this latest update!

Buzzit: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the update! :thumbsup:




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
McCabe Street SE Extension (23rd to 33rd/Creek Way)

Below is a map illustrating the plan for this latest project--the dashed lines are roads that will be constructed as part of this update.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg833.imageshack.us%2Fimg833%2F3531%2Fu78projectmaptop.png&hash=f0194fd39b0e2bdf1a63f93dbb01beb3d7b507b9)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg195.imageshack.us%2Fimg195%2F1135%2Fu78projectmapbottom.png&hash=d356ee78565b6bc2f2a1e1dd46845079a8e047c7)

The McCabe Street Extension will extend McCabe Street SE from 23rd Avenue NE to 33rd Avenue NE/Creek Way NE in north-central Chemeketa.  This project has been funded by two developers, one building new office space west of the extension, and another by the developers of the Starpoint subdivision to the east of the extension.  In addition to the McCabe Street extension, a new local through-street, Starpoint Drive NE, will be constructed between Ashcroft St NE (at 30th Avenue), to the McCabe extension and continuing east into the subdivision.

Here's the existing curve, where 33rd Avenue NE turns into Creek Way NE (facing north).  This is where the McCabe Street extension will connect in, and as you can see, work's already begun on it.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg35.imageshack.us%2Fimg35%2F3730%2Fu7811.jpg&hash=2693f5b34fda7b0daedc326e666754020b4c9151)

This is between 23rd and 33rd along the extension--grading and paving is underway (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F9999%2Fu7812.jpg&hash=2ec7952f1d8440737d0cc762561b8b88c4bd3187)

Much as happened with the Dallas Drive/Rankine Lane intersection shown three updates ago, there's some unusual angles involved, and as such, engineers have chosen a roundabout intersection. (facing north)  Because of the lower traffic volumes, this will only be a single-lane one.  In order to facilitate construction, 33rd and Creek Way have been closed for about 6 weeks.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg805.imageshack.us%2Fimg805%2F7638%2Fu7813.jpg&hash=0fa752f8bf94a9839f5c83bfdf1da69636c1e800)

Work continues on the roundabout (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg98.imageshack.us%2Fimg98%2F1931%2Fu7814.jpg&hash=702d3b234ad700035ea78fe09680fb3f6152dacb)

Construction is also underway on Starpoint Drive NE, another new connector road that will run through both the commercial and residential development.  This is just to the south of the roundabout (facing north), which Starpoint will connect into as well.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg215.imageshack.us%2Fimg215%2F9724%2Fu7815.jpg&hash=cf69d9c759bdaa2bb0dacda6b4a21ec3d4f6d714)

Starpoint Drive NE will connect to Ashcroft Street NE, lining up at the existing 30th Avenue NE intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg839.imageshack.us%2Fimg839%2F1077%2Fu7816.jpg&hash=57e8239f6e25d940feb04ddb43451f951f6c80a2)

The extended McCabe Street has been connected into the roundabout (facing north), which is now just about to open.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg812.imageshack.us%2Fimg812%2F7158%2Fu7817.jpg&hash=8d937ee1164b67cf5e79f15692ad7e271a83958d)

The western segment of Starpoint has now been connected into the roundabout (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg860.imageshack.us%2Fimg860%2F778%2Fu7818.jpg&hash=b8d907a924d12ed89b657945a74dc1f151de8389)

As part of the traffic impact mitigation agreed upon by the developers, the intersection at Ashcroft with 30th/Starpoint has been signalized.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg269.imageshack.us%2Fimg269%2F1347%2Fu7819.jpg&hash=ff82e1a4a0d5e368a3584eff47cdd8c63e14a388)

The roundabout now has the 5th connection in place--the eastern segment of Starpoint (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3789%2Fu7822.jpg&hash=13af2ef3cc02249ecae6eeca2e7c6da300dca533)

Finally, here are a couple images of McCabe Street all extended.  Both the commercial and residential development is well underway.  (both facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg580.imageshack.us%2Fimg580%2F9862%2Fu7820.jpg&hash=8466c36496f4e10ef7c7bd17227176dddb8b8f7f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F4241%2Fu7821.jpg&hash=129aa916cb1c5e2d434992c937305cd5d8ef94d5)

That does it for this project--hope you enjoyed following it, and I'll be back next time with yet another construction project . . . we'll take a look at a couple more smaller ones, and then head back to 52nd Avenue.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: sc-4 on June 23, 2011, 02:59:54 AM
I've finally read all your MD including your last update and in my opinion your MD is awesome Alex , like you !
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: rooker1 on June 23, 2011, 05:22:35 AM
 A moment of honesty....
I don't post in here as often as I would like, but I never know what to say.  You are a road geek, it's obvious, but I am not and becasue of this I guess I sometimes I don't get your updates.  I understand what you are doing, building transit networks and how they are built as in real life.  I would sometimes like to see how Alex the mayor deals with schooling, hospitals, his industrial areas and the proximity of residential and commercial zones.  What his down town area might look like, his rural areas and his attention to finished details such as tress, parks and all that sort of stuff.
Don't get me wrong.....I do like what I see. ;) &apls I just wish there was another side to you as well.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: bat on June 23, 2011, 07:48:31 AM
The McCabe Street is looking great so far.
Also nice work on the roundabout!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: metarvo on June 23, 2011, 07:58:21 AM
The roundabout certainly makes sense given the geometry of that intersection.  It's a little ironic (or perhaps not so $%Grinno$%) that Starpoint Dr. would have went through a "Five Star" intersection had a roundabout not been built instead.  The six week wait was probably a minor annoyance, but I'm sure Chemeketans are used to road work and alternate routes.  Keep up the good work, Alex!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Exla357 on June 23, 2011, 08:18:33 AM
That looks nice, where do you get the roundabout filler?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Nego on June 23, 2011, 10:19:49 AM
Another great update, Tarkus. &apls The Starpoint subdivision looks like a nice place to live. Good-looking and close to work.

Can't wait for your next update! :thumbsup:

P.S. Metaphorical "inches" away from elation? Sounds exhilarating! :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 77--6/15/2011--52nd Ave NE Widening, Phase 1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 23, 2011, 12:17:15 PM
Quote from: Exla357 on June 23, 2011, 08:18:33 AM
That looks nice, where do you get the roundabout filler?

That is an SFBT roundabout filler available somewhere for download. I have it too and have used it on occasion.

And I very much like your approach to building for development. Your subdivisions look a lot like mine, with the same mix of homes.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: McCabe Street Extension)
Post by: Tarkus on July 14, 2011, 12:27:17 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with another installment of Tarkusian Cities--a slightly smaller one.

But first, replies:

sc-4: Thanks for the kind words, and for making the effort to read through the whole MD--no small feat!  I'm thrilled that you've enjoyed it!

Robin (rooker1): Thanks for the kind words, and most of all, thanks for the rather thoughtful (and thought-provoking) critical feedback!  It's really quite valuable to have some perspective from a confirmed non-roadgeek, particularly one with your MDing credentials. 

Beyond my unabashed roadgeekiness, I suppose I've kind of gravitated toward the transport aspects of the game because I feel there's a certain intrinsic drama in the construction process that allows me to show myself getting my hands dirty with SC4.  It allows me to create a story arc of sorts that is directly related to the game (often, my construction projects are dictated by the game's own traffic graphs), and at the same time, represents an actual activity undertaken by real-life municipalities.  That concept really appealed to me, and it seemed like something different compared to what other MDers and CJers tended to do, even the "roadgeek" types (back when Tarkusian Cities was starting, the standard bearers were folks like dfnva and pickled_pig).  Probably the closest things were 1dera3's efforts from 2005-2006 and the Pakkusena Airport journal that Xiziz and a few others were doing around that same time. 

I feel like a fair bit of my reader base comes to Tarkusian Cities to see road construction and bulldozers, and this MD has kind of become synonymous with that style.

That said, I would like to broaden my approach to have a little something more for the non-roadgeek readers, and sometimes I enjoy doing a non-road construction update every once and awhile--on occasion, I've enjoyed doing "tour" updates or "mosaic" updates that linger on an aspect of a region rather than the processes that led to its construction.  I'd like to do more of those periodically to provide a change of pace.  Additionally, put a fair bit of thought into zoning in tandem with my transportation layouts--I've wanted to develop a viable way to merge that conception in with my update approach for awhile as well.

Again, thank you for your constructive and honest feedback here--you've given me a fair bit to think about, and as someone who likes to think about stuff (:D), I appreciate that. :thumbsup:

bat: Thank you, my friend--I'm glad you enjoyed following the McCabe Street extension and found the roundabout to your liking.  Hope you find this next project to your liking as well!

metarvo: Thanks for the compliments on the roundabout and on the update!  And you've exactly guessed how I named that road.  :D  That and it just seemed like a natural subdivision name.

Alex (Exla357): Thanks for the kind words--and to answer your question, you can find the roundabout filler in this package (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=2025).

Nego: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the update and found the subdivision to your liking!  It is indeed some primo real estate there--the developers and realtors made some beaucoup bucks off of it, and there was some talk of expanding it, but the city thought it would have taken up too much of the "green buffer zone" and appears unlikely to approve it.  And we are indeed inching ever forward . . . not too much longer. ;)  And we'll likely be taking a look at Nego Way in South Chemeketa in a not-too-distant update, too, in honor of your being poster #1200!

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the compliments on my development approach!  I have noticed a similarity in the pics I've seen in your screenshots.  I've kind of tried to blend my interest in southwestern suburbia (Reno, NV has been a big influence on my SC4 style) as well as the more familiar environs of Washington County, Oregon (which one of these days, I'd like to recreate).  Mattb325's homes have been absolutely essential to my style, too.  Surprisingly, I didn't have them in my Plugins until I rebuilt them after my old laptop's HD overheated.




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
[size="5"]Tower Loop NE Extension (Heald to Ashcroft)[/size]

The Tower Loop Project will extend the eastern "stub" of Tower Loop NE (named after Poster #100 in the ST edition of Tarkusian Cities, Towerdude) from Heald Way NE to Ashcroft St NE at 75th Avenue NE, completing the loop.  The area northeast of the intersection of 71st and Ashcroft has recently been purchased with the intent of building a high-tech park.  The city council approved the development after the developers agreed to improve nearby roadway facilities and provide proper connectivity.   In addition to the extension of Tower Loop and the construction of new local streets as part of the development, Ashcroft Street will also be widened from 2 lanes to 4 with a center turn lane from 71st to the new Heald Way extension.  The dashed lines on the map indicate new roads that will be constructed as part of the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg3.imageshack.us%2Fimg3%2F7619%2Fu79map.png&hash=6e441f4250871c911a5bf4382b4da898fbf54915)

We'll begin with the Tower Loop Project.  The city had already anticipated development on the parcel northeast of 71st and Ashcroft, and had already constructed an overpass over 71st for Tower Loop, shown below (facing east).  Because of 71st Avenue's status as a surface expressway, and the fact that Tower was anticipated to have a fairly considerable traffic volume, city engineers deemed an overpass would be necessary.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg692.imageshack.us%2Fimg692%2F4746%2Fu781ntm.jpg&hash=456bffb121a882337e92c287c63beb5ae99b8095)

Here's another look at the existing bit of Tower Loop past the overpass (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F1871%2Fu782.jpg&hash=2f8b33f1617c780d71142252fe0550bf6e33302f)

Widening work on Ashcroft Street has begun (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg151.imageshack.us%2Fimg151%2F1843%2Fu783.jpg&hash=7af3047fa87c9e94fcda90ec772a738f8a0fbe1a)

Here is the "intersection" at Tower Loop and Heald Way (facing north).  Not really much of an intersection, but as you can see, work's begun on making it one.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg843.imageshack.us%2Fimg843%2F3539%2Fu784.jpg&hash=b4d33f54367b284b345b264bf6e32479c7a49f05)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg191.imageshack.us%2Fimg191%2F6438%2Fu785.jpg&hash=dad9657f4b45108a4b76eee5a539ffbfed5db447)

Widening continues (facing north).  At the bottom, you can see where Tower Loop will connect into Ashcroft, and at the top, where Heald Way will connect.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg806.imageshack.us%2Fimg806%2F3460%2Fu786.jpg&hash=7d020cce0a9f6b6a99ff7e7be748087dbbc1ba38)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F3811%2Fu787.jpg&hash=744aa979238661c76a4966b782a3d9ffa144c547)

Widening has been completed on Ashcroft Street, and paving has commenced on the new section of Tower Loop (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg687.imageshack.us%2Fimg687%2F2451%2Fu788.jpg&hash=22eca5801fcb83d27c5c973b1ed20b4900f9a0ca)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg685.imageshack.us%2Fimg685%2F4963%2Fu789.jpg&hash=2dbb3875578ef1e98afcd9879c93e6f486ed6f79)

And here is the finished product, with development going in (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg600.imageshack.us%2Fimg600%2F1088%2Fu7810.jpg&hash=fcbddef5456d96b38c14e58dd8a144afaa39d52a)

And that does it for this latest project--hope you've enjoyed it!  The city's gotten the funds to start on Phase 2 of the 52nd Avenue widening, so we'll be headed out there next update. 

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension)
Post by: rooker1 on July 14, 2011, 05:59:14 AM
 Another road geek interesting update. :P ;)
Thank you for taking my criticism so well.  Sometimes I wonder if I go too far with my opinions.  I think I may track down some of those other MDs/CJs you mentioned and see what they are all about.  It slips my mind right now if I was following them in thier time.
I look forward to seeing more of your fine city.

Robin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension)
Post by: bakerton on July 14, 2011, 02:35:04 PM
Alex, The extention look nice and the devolopment look great too.McCabe Street and Tower Loop projects remind me of a couple RL projects here in my hometown area. Looking forward to more exciting projects and more T.C. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension)
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 14, 2011, 08:21:41 PM
Very nicely done again. Yeah, your subdivisions smack of mine and vice versa. I've even begun using SAM 7 a lot more...the only difference is that I use the Olympic terrain mod (but I wish I could find yours — mine is a little too green now for my taste).

I've given up on recreating AZ before starting because the building style is just not available in SC4. No AZ-style schools or homes or strip malls. Though I'd like to see that stuff, it just doesn't exist. (And I can't BAT.)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension)
Post by: rhwfanatic221 on July 17, 2011, 06:35:52 AM
I'm going to have to stick w/my guns be cliche' and say... "This stuff is awesome yet again Tarkus" ::) But putting all sarcasm aside truly love your presentation and the way you have your roadways built. Probably the one person tht I closely am inspired by to build as realistic as possible regions. Oh and another cliche' "Keep it up"  $%Grinno$% :P

In case I've put in too many sarcastic comments in tht above one, I really do hope you keep doing your really nice work on the region of Tarkusian Cities.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 79--7/14/2011-Chemeketa: Tower Loop NE Extension)
Post by: wallasey on July 18, 2011, 03:38:27 PM
Top updates there, liking the gentrification of the new routes once they have been constructed. A nice touch.

Well done.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt 2.1)
Post by: Tarkus on July 22, 2011, 12:40:34 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, back with another update--Chemeketa has obtained the funds to continue the 52nd Avenue Widening Project, so we'll be headed out there.

But first, replies:

Robin (rooker1): Hey, no worries, my friend--I'm a good sport. :D  Thanks for the kind words on the update--there will be more roadgeekery in the next few updates, but I'll see if I can find little ways to make them interesting for the less road-oriented folks as well.

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the kind words on the extension projects--glad they proved interesting and relatable for you!

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the compliments on the update!  I've actually probably been using SAM 7 a little less recently, in part due to the lack of NWM intersections, though that'll be my next project to finish up after this NAM release cycle. :D  As far as my terrain goes, I'm actually using c.p./cycledogg's original Columbus Terrain Mod, which, oddly, is tricky to track down.  One of these days I'll get back to desert terrain . . . I have a new region I've started with it, which I'll probably show here before too long. 

rhwfanatic221: Thank you for the very kind words and encouragement--cliche or not, I appreciate it. :D  I'm really glad Tarkusian Cities has proved inspirational for you as well!

wallasey: Thanks--I'm really glad you enjoyed the updates and seeing the sprucing up of the areas.  You'll see a fair bit more of that sort of stuff with these latest projects.




Before I get really into things, I thought I'd share a little something--an updated full map of the Chemeketa Region (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xmXRk23btd).  If you look down in southeast Chemeketa, near the railroad tracks and Ashcroft Street, you'll find our 1200th poster has been honored with a new road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)
52nd Avenue NE Corridor Widening Project-Phase 2 (Mosby to Scarlet)

The purpose of this project is to continue the improvements to 52nd Avenue NE in the Sorenson Creek area of North Chemeketa to facilitate faster and safer travel.  As with Phase 1, which improved 52nd Avenue NE from Mosby Road to Halpert Road, the reconstructed roadway will consist of 6 travel lanes, with a raised, landscaped median and turn lanes at major intersections.  As part of the project, other improvements will be made to the roadways in the vicinity of 52nd Avenue, including an extension of Scarlet Street NE south to Sorenson Creek, reconfiguration of the 52nd/Sorenson Street NE intersection, and the construction of a new connector between the Scarlet Street extension and Sorenson Street.

In order to better facilitate the construction of the new lanes while minimizing disruption, 52nd Avenue's existing 4 lanes have been narrowed, with a temporary 35mph construction speed limit in effect.  This is at the intersection of Rankine Lane and 52nd (facing east).  Left turns off 52nd have been proven a bit . . . interesting due to the temporary lane configuration, and Public Works has advised those heading east on 52nd to instead make a right and use the Rankine/Dallas Roundabout as a turnaround, while westbound motorists have been advised to use Aldrin Drive.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg163.imageshack.us%2Fimg163%2F6998%2Fu802.jpg&hash=4d81ed98ca6473a47719d8c9047a1409dc7b8672)

This is at the bridge over Sorenson Creek on 52nd (facing east)--the bridge will need to be reconstructed to accommodate the wider roadway.  Crews have caused 52nd to "squiggle" so that they can better facilitate the widening.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg685.imageshack.us%2Fimg685%2F9318%2Fu803.jpg&hash=424b9e905353f9289775b34bc43786b2577c52e1)

This is the existing intersection at 52nd and Scarlet, the west end of the project (facing east).  Scarlet will be extended to the south from this intersection.  The original plans involved extending Sorenson Street northward to connect with the disconnected segment with the same name, running from Eriksen to 71st, but in order to have optimal traffic signal spacing, and to avoid the sensitive wetlands on Sorenson Creek between 52nd and Eriksen Drive NE, it was decided that an alternate plan was necessary.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg854.imageshack.us%2Fimg854%2F1898%2Fu804.jpg&hash=c1713738a8d4e2687051a76a091505f1eaf085e9)

Work on the extension has begun (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg233.imageshack.us%2Fimg233%2F284%2Fu805.jpg&hash=03ac33b07e06b6030fa7a0353ea64acf020e9de7)

This is the intersection of 52nd and Sorenson with construction in progress (facing east).  Sorenson's access to 52nd will be converted into a RIRO (right-in, right-out) setup, with a new connector road being constructed between Sorenson and the Scarlet extension to facilitate left-turning traffic.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg703.imageshack.us%2Fimg703%2F5288%2Fu806.jpg&hash=e96ad2ca6b11bb53f85029036125aad6d723543b)

This is the point where the connector road will meet Sorenson Street at a roundabout (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg803.imageshack.us%2Fimg803%2F2050%2Fu807.jpg&hash=a2b0526bf009397e2437f73dc4c28374b22b6f39)

Construction on the roundabout and connector (all facing east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg560.imageshack.us%2Fimg560%2F1169%2Fu808.jpg&hash=0d11c741fa02ebeb002e576e9d2cb12800ebf7b1)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg708.imageshack.us%2Fimg708%2F927%2Fu809.jpg&hash=d19efd69e5434b0e6887edee2f127ef6ea5fe460)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg843.imageshack.us%2Fimg843%2F258%2Fu8010.jpg&hash=2f9e567d91fffc74788adb6fce02ed04634dec55)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg703.imageshack.us%2Fimg703%2F2408%2Fu8011.jpg&hash=a44229dc66e8f7b2fd5e27c962060365a0c51f6b)

Here's the other end of the connector, ready to be connected into the extended Scarlet Street (facing east).  Full access will remain at the 52nd/Sorenson intersection until the Scarlet Street project is complete.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F7104%2Fu8012.jpg&hash=29b684c56f5982150101b398531da95e55a9def9)

Work continuing on the Scarlet extension (facing east):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg98.imageshack.us%2Fimg98%2F9605%2Fu8014.jpg&hash=f6a8dc2d6a8e4a39d33e57c8112c096c91d395e1)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F7092%2Fu8017.jpg&hash=1a7b082c38222ac1c5c8737e1177be82a77384cc)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg810.imageshack.us%2Fimg810%2F8048%2Fu8018.jpg&hash=a3a17613e45a3d65fdc38122f396a739e18584ab)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg694.imageshack.us%2Fimg694%2F2450%2Fu8019.jpg&hash=287e0bd65e2092861b4967a110094cd502de31f7)

Because of the difficulties of staging the construction of the widened Sorenson Creek bridge on 52nd Avenue, Public Works has had to close the busy thoroughfare--a controversial decision for sure.  We'll be back next time to see the aftermath.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F4021%2Fu8020.jpg&hash=2c63d77a41d64cf60107cc8b63a0c08615071b74)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: rooker1 on July 22, 2011, 06:27:58 AM
Quotebut I'll see if I can find little ways to make them interesting for the less road-oriented folks as well.

Hmmmmm.....not sure if I'm insulted or grateful.  :P ;)

Nice update indeed.
I have really started to try and use more of the NAM features lately in my city and following your MD has helped me out a lot.  So thank you and maybe I can become a little "Road Geekyer".  Is that a word? ???  How about Road Savvy, now that sounds nice. ;)

Always a pleasure.
Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: supremec on July 22, 2011, 10:56:26 AM
Always fabulous updates  &apls  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 22, 2011, 05:30:29 PM
Awesome as always. Nice to see the squiggle in the MAVE-4. That's another minor good feature to have in NWM 2.0.

How many SC4 tiles does Chemeketa incorporate?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: Exla357 on July 23, 2011, 11:43:38 AM
Really good stuff here as always! Can't wait for NAM 30!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: art128 on July 23, 2011, 12:02:40 PM
Great stuff there Alex! Your road network is still the best out there! Also I love the second picture, it looks quite good with the little pond and the busy road.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: bat on July 26, 2011, 05:49:58 AM
Fantastic pictures of your roads there! Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt 2.1)
Post by: sim_link on July 26, 2011, 06:45:01 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on July 22, 2011, 12:40:34 AM
As with Phase 1, which improved 52nd Avenue NE from Mosby Road to Halpert Road, the reconstructed roadway will consist of 6 travel lanes, with a raised, landscaped median and turn lanes at major intersections. 

I look forward to seeing that raised median. I recently experimented with doing that with one of my RHW highways (though mine was on the side of the highway acting as a sound barrier... :P)

Keep up the road-geekery, always interesting to see!

-simlink
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: ps2owner on July 26, 2011, 08:33:57 PM
Looks Great!
Sorry If I missed somewhere that you said it, but where did you get those construction lots?
(there are 62 pages after all)
NM, I found them.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: Ramona Brie on August 02, 2011, 12:11:28 AM
Hate to post again, but...this was a picture released about two and a half months ago. That building looks awfully familiar...is this 52nd and Scarlet AFTER construction? (Tarkus's image)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg263.imageshack.us%2Fimg263%2F8809%2Fnwm031620111.jpg&hash=b2cf8206d1ef2a914e8df1de5fa6b81af0dae4a5)

There seems to be a color correction issue between old and new pieces here.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: noahclem on September 01, 2011, 03:16:31 AM
I was visiting to track down your road map tutorial (for creating a vector-based image of my restaurant logo for a sign actually) and took the opportunity to catch up on your work. Looking very nice as always of course   ;D   I'm really enjoying your increasing tendency to use roundabouts and enjoy the organic layout of your networks with FA, diagonal, wide-radius, gradual slopes, etc. Looking forward to more  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: ps2owner on September 06, 2011, 02:42:24 PM
For anyone who was wondering where the construction sites are, i'll be helpful and post a link:
http://kurier.simcityplaza.de/details.php?file=51
Site is in German, but its pretty easy to navigate, even without a translator, at least for me.
(My language is English)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: ivo_su on September 06, 2011, 05:24:47 PM
I will  be very interesting to see  the use of networks shitokite RHW and NWM in the downtown of some of your more urban regions.  Otherwise I like a chicane MAVE-4 that you  showed us, but I do not know if I'm wrong but  I do not remember to have seen somewhere NMAVE-4. The good news is that soon I will be able to use it personally.

You have PM ;)
- Ivo
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 80--7/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt. 2.1)
Post by: rhwfanatic221 on September 07, 2011, 07:09:51 PM
I can't wait to use the AVE 6 w/the Tuleps and all... great work on tht. Btw I had come across a separate forum about new stoplight gantries you had been working on... any way those will be out before, or after the NAM release?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: Tarkus on October 30, 2011, 02:22:06 PM
Hi everyone-

First off, my apologies to all my loyal readers here for the lack of updates and the "roaring silence" here (to borrow from Manfred Mann's Earth Band (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Roaring_Silence)).  Between the usual case of Fall Real-Life Syndrome (RLS) and the fact that my SC4 focus has been pretty much entirely consumed with NAM projects (first, NAM 30/RHW 5.0/NWM 2.0/etc.; now "Project 0E"), I haven't really had the time/energy to update Tarkusian Cities, and I've been evaluating where to go from here with it.

Much as there's been a trend toward gaps between updates (or spurts of updates) here, there's been large gaps between NAM releases as well lately--the timespan between the last 3 releases has been 9 months on average, and it's prompted discussions within the team in terms of how we develop, package and release things.  That discussion has resulted in a few changes going forward with NAM Version 31, including scrapping the so-called "modular NAM" paradigm (Core + Essentials + Components/Separate Download Plugins) we've had since 2007, in favor of a "monolithic NAM" paradigm (Core only, with Components absorbed into the Core, meaning that instead of downloading the RHW, NWM, HSRP, etc., you'll be checking a box for it in the NAM installer). This shift in thinking was largely the result of trying to "go with the grain" of our typical tendencies, and based on watching download stats, user comments and technical support cases.  We're all quite curious to see how it works out, and we're hoping it solves a lot of recurring developmental process and tech support issues we've been facing over the past 4 years.

This process has gotten me thinking about Tarkusian Cities again, particularly in light of the fact that I've had folks asking what was going on with it.  I've been taking into consideration my anticipated RL over the coming year or so, plus NAM development, the nature how my creative process typically runs here with Tarkusian Cities (which, despite a more "regular" first half of 2011, is generally pretty sporadic), and trends in user feedback.

My process of assembling updates can, at times, prove quite laborious, particularly with the planning of my various projects, the mapmaking process, sorting through the (typically massive) array of pictures I generate over the course of gameplay to find the ones that best encapsulate my concept for the update, and, in many cases, developing new NAM items for use in my cities (which has led to quite a features you now know and love, though it was also the downfall of my first MD/CJ attempt, Argentum, which was much too predicated on that side of things). 

In looking over my typical pattern of updates, and the datestamps on the sets of images in my Albums subfolders, it's very common that I do things in intense spurts.  Typically, there will be a period of 1-2 weeks where there's 3-5 updates (I've never done more than 5 updates in a month), followed by a lull of anywhere from a couple weeks to (at longest) 5 months.  Occasionally, as happened in 2010 (a year which only saw 5 updates total), there will be isolated updates separated by lulls.  With the exception of images generated for NAM development purposes, my game image folders follow a similar pattern.

I've also gotten the impression, both from what I've heard from readers and from noting view and reply statistics, that the mindset people take into Tarkusian Cities is not the traditional "read-and-reply" approach most take into MDs/CJs.  Rather, it's "view-absorb-respond", with folks typically re-reading through updates (even during "active" periods when new updates are being added), and the responses tend to spill out beyond typical replies and into other spheres in the community, including readers' own MDs/CJs, NAM development threads, Show Us threads, etc.  I don't think TC has quite achieved the status of a "meta-MD/CJ" like my good friend David (dedgren) has created with Three Rivers Region, but I've gotten the feeling TC is something different than a traditional city showcase--what exactly it is, I'm not sure.

Particularly because of one non-traditional aspect of it--the timespan between updates--I've at times wondered if I'd be able to really continue TC and continue to do it proper justice.  But in keeping with the "going with the grain" idea, and trying to make that grain a bit less perplexingly enigmatic to those following it, I think I've been able to come up with some idea as to what TC should look like going forward.  And just as in the case of the NAM, it involves "going with the grain".  Namely, it seems like acknowledging the spurt-and-lull pattern is really the most feasible and natural way to continue Tarkusian Cities. 

The way I'm envisioning this is with a gradual update-assembly process, followed by an intensive posting cycle consisting of several updates over a couple week span, detailing various projects (and sometimes including non-project "tour updates", which sometimes offer a nice change of pace) separated by a planned 2-to-4-month lull, and letting the reader absorb and respond.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts on this, and thank you for indulging my wall-of-text musings and your continued support of Tarkusian Cities over the years.  I do have some new stuff to share (as part of one of these "intensive cycles") forthcoming, including the conclusion of the 52nd Avenue project in Chemeketa.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: ivo_su on October 30, 2011, 02:48:17 PM
What is this "Project 0E" - I have read  in several places for him  but he has no more detail to meet them.

- Ivo
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on October 30, 2011, 03:05:28 PM
Alex, I read TC and other MD/CJ to view the creativity :-\ of the owner and sometimes to find new ideas &idea, so I don't mind how you organize your MD/CJ but don't abandon it. ()sad()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: jdenm8 on October 30, 2011, 07:28:40 PM
Quote from: ivo_su on October 30, 2011, 02:48:17 PM
What is this "Project 0E" - I have read  in several places for him  but he has no more detail to meet them.

Project 0E is a ground-up rebuild of nearly all of the RHW (Except puzzle pieces). More information can be found in the RHW thread.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: Haljackey on October 30, 2011, 08:25:38 PM
Hey Alex,

Where to start... the first thing to mention is that your MD is in the hall of fame, which means you can post updates to it whenever you want. Large multi-month long gaps are possible due to the prestige this MD has attained, so there is absolutely no problem with taking a long break between updates. You could say you earned it!  :)

I, like yourself, have wondered where my journal fit in the grand scheme of things, as if you recall, my journal just didn't fit well with the others. It was no 3RR, just like yours is not, but TC does have a certain affinity associated with it that puts it outside of the traditional MD framework.

In the end, I decided to end my MD career to focus on other things. Being retired means I could focus on showcasing my work in Simcity to specific areas of the community. (In my case Show Us Your Intersections, my archives thread, the RHW Interchange Guide and Youtube videos.)

While I am not saying you should retire from your MD career, perhaps you may be more comfortable showing your work elsewhere. That way you don't need to wait until you have enough content to make a update, you can show whatever you've got whenever you want. For example, I'm sure many of us would be eager to see some more of your work on interchanges and from this MD in the Show Us Your Intersections thread or possibly start a think-tank thread about something related to your playing style.

Just suggestions here. TC is a respected MD not only because it's in the hall of fame, but because there's just something about it that keeps people coming back for more, regardless how long it's been between updates.

Don't sweat it. ;)

-Ryan (Haljackey)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: Ramona Brie on October 30, 2011, 09:31:35 PM
Tarkus,

No matter what, your design of cities has influenced mine. I now am much more realistic with regards to scale and appearance of suburbs. Grid format cities with 6x6 blocks separated by Avenues are a thing of the past for me. I'm actually going as far as blowing up some of my oldest cities to build new ones on the same footprint that are far more realistic. You'd be proud of some of my more recent cities, particularly Jarsson, my first large-format city that moves from a grid in the older districts to more suburban-style development. It's pretty much par for the course when it comes to how I build towns now.

I'd love to see more of your awesome work, but I understand that the NAM is your priority and that it's time to update the way it is approached at a developmental level.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: Swordmaster on October 31, 2011, 05:51:06 AM
Heh, I guess this is my first reply here.  I just haven't had the time to read beyond the first dozen pages or so!

Anyway, I recall David saying that the foremost thing about MDing is for the author to have fun. You should do whatever works best for you, even if that means moving to different and unusual patterns of showcasing and interaction.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: noahclem on November 01, 2011, 03:33:38 PM
I say go with the grain!  ;D

I think a pretty safe majority of SC4D'ers understand RL obligations and cycles, as well as other SC4-related priorities. This is referring to MDs in general, but at least for me, I would prefer 1-3 updates per month over multiple updates weekly or else it is very hard for me to keep up with the authors I would like to follow.

In any case I don't see any reason not to continue moving forward with your great MD. And I guess it speaks to your evaluation that TC is something more than a regular MD that I would take the time to get through your "wall of words"  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Moving Forward)
Post by: Will12 on November 23, 2011, 12:32:46 AM
Great MD Tarkus and this along with Haljackeys GTR (BTW freak md hal!) is the only MD's I come home from school to enjoy and look back at the good old times of RHW 1.3 and NAM 20. Just because I havent been active on Simtropolis or here before June this year doesnt mean I didn't read your great MD's.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project-Pt 2.2)
Post by: Tarkus on December 17, 2011, 12:18:54 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, after a long hiatus, Tarkusian Cities is back.  I want to thank all of my readers for their patience and support, and the thoughtful comments and encouragement several of you left in response to my last "wall of text" about the future of TC.  I have decided to "go with the grain" and basically take advantage of the natural "spurt-and-hiatus" flow of things here. 

While RL is a little less hectic, as is the case right now, I'm going to try to squeeze in a rapid-fire "spurt" of updates before things flare up again.  What this means is that I'll be updating things here somewhat regularly during the holidays, until early January, mostly focusing on construction projects in North Chemeketa.  Then Tarkusian Cities will be on a planned hiatus, probably until April, though you might see bits of new stuff in "Show Us Your Interchanges" and the like as time permits in between then.

The first of these "rapid-fire" updates will, at long last, resume the 52nd Avenue NE widening project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)

52nd Avenue NE Corridor Widening Project: Phase 2 Continued (Mosby to Scarlet)

In case anyone needs to refresh themselves with the lay of the land, here's the most recent full region transport map of Chemeketa (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xmXRk23btd).  There's one item you won't yet see on here . . . the Scarlet Street NE extension south of 52nd Avenue.

As we left off last time, 52nd Avenue NE had been closed off just west of the Rankine Lane NE intersection, at Sorenson Creek, for bridge work seen underway here (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F7132%2Fu811.jpg&hash=dc969f754a0572018178cddc3ebf78ca7d7017b5)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg850.imageshack.us%2Fimg850%2F346%2Fu812.jpg&hash=47c2fd6e3dc6574ef5a74b27db1b8dc7a46e2647)

While the city has encouraged motorists to use 39th Ave NE or 71st Ave NE as detours, quite a few folks have instead opted for Eriksen Way NE, an east-west collector route just north of 52nd, and have successfully clogged it up--here's looking at the intersection of Eriksen and Rankine (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg827.imageshack.us%2Fimg827%2F5800%2Fu813.jpg&hash=72b300a0739b8c2784a652e0d94643aede590db5)

This is at Eriksen Way NE and Scarlet Street NE (facing east).  As you can see, it's fairly clogged up as well . . . and because of the Scarlet Street extension south of 52nd, the city's already started making some preparations for a right-turn lane from Eriksen EB onto Scarlet SB.  More improvements for Eriksen are planned, though the city has not yet identified funding for the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg521.imageshack.us%2Fimg521%2F5739%2Fu814.jpg&hash=55daa0d4814dbdffdf3df810af93a205a4aabd8f)

Bridge work continues (facing east).  Sorenson Creek actually had to be re-routed slightly in order to accommodate the wider bridge.  (Before anyone asks, those T21 trees are a personal "tweak" of jackxu's AVE-2 mod.)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg151.imageshack.us%2Fimg151%2F9635%2Fu815.jpg&hash=d09a40f6f96258e84a2a3314a0b7d93a1229726f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F6992%2Fu816.jpg&hash=46ed1b40dc4279fb9cacfc09023d308098808fb1)

Here's the "choke point" where the already widened section of 52nd narrows down, just west of Mosby Road NE (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg3.imageshack.us%2Fimg3%2F8883%2Fu817.jpg&hash=e4c70cc90a2d9d0c367879616667118ec1347784)

Work on connecting the new bridge up to the eastern segment of 52nd (facing east).  That intersection there is 52nd and Rankine.  In order to minimize the environmental impact of having to slightly divert Sorenson Creek, a wetlands mitigation pond has been constructed at the southwest corner of the intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F2793%2Fu818.jpg&hash=0743134246896822e1e46a87cb822a31367feb0d)

And now the bridge is open (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg233.imageshack.us%2Fimg233%2F299%2Fu8115.jpg&hash=e4364bb6ddbbc464ef46004d4e3959e0e3b70a5a)

The improved intersection at 52nd and Aldrin Way NE (facing east).  The turn lanes are so new the city crews haven't even painted the arrows.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg687.imageshack.us%2Fimg687%2F9792%2Fu8116.jpg&hash=f6b41118c1a40c9ce2e2c574c51f708236cfb6c8)

52nd and Scarlet post-construction (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg85.imageshack.us%2Fimg85%2F8849%2Fu8112.jpg&hash=1dab2e3be752b1ea6fd2d5eaa3d0026972b15896)

52nd and Rankine post-construction (facing east).  You might recognize this image--it's actually the NWM download promo shot.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg840.imageshack.us%2Fimg840%2F8682%2Fu8118.jpg&hash=3cc710982732d6256ecb57915a19a1837d6bb0f8)

And a related project--here's where the Scarlet Street extension currently ends, at Sorenson Creek (facing east).  As you can see, however, some advanced planning when the subdivision south of the creek (accessed via 39th Ave NE) means there's already a road stub in place for the southern segment.  We'll be looking at that soon, along with Phase 3 (of 3) of the 52nd Avenue NE Project (from Scarlet to Ashcroft), the Highway 15/39th Avenue interchange, and the extension of the Chemeketa Parkway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg850.imageshack.us%2Fimg850%2F4346%2Fu8114.jpg&hash=e50a6bf78ed80d4ead0b5dc06dcee9b1d161b84f)

Hope the new update was an enjoyable read for you--there will be more to come quite soon!

-Alex (Tarkus)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: City Builder on December 17, 2011, 12:21:45 AM
A great update and just wanted to say that if I could build my cities to look like what you build, I think that SC4 would be the only game that I'd play.  Very beautiful.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: apeguy on December 17, 2011, 07:20:21 AM
Great update, it's nice to see Tarkusian Cities back in action. I look forward to seeing more updates over Christmas. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: art128 on December 17, 2011, 08:59:03 AM
Excellent new development, Alex! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: Ramona Brie on December 17, 2011, 09:58:41 AM
Awesome! I really do like this and look forward to more in the spurt!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on December 18, 2011, 08:47:00 AM
Good job, Alex!! :thumbsup: I'm happy that you accept our suggestion. &hlp We don't care when you publish your creation, but that you publish them! ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: EDGE4194 on December 18, 2011, 09:30:21 AM
Nice to see some new updates. I don't know how you even find the time to do everything you are involved with on this site let alone RL! I can't find the time to even keep up with the forums anymore. Will be looking forward to these "treats" during the next few weeks.  -----Eric
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: RickD on December 19, 2011, 02:08:30 AM
Eriksen Way, Mosby Road ... what's next? Stinson Drive?  :D

BTW, the link to the street map is broken.  ;)

Thanks for catching that, Raphael--it's fixed now.  -Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 81-12/17/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 2.2)
Post by: JoeST on December 19, 2011, 10:50:36 AM
Hey there Alex, I'm really glad you're continuing with this, it's an amazing showcase of just how much you (and the rest of the NaMites) have contributed to the game, just fantastic :)

Thanks for continuing.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: Tarkus on December 22, 2011, 11:39:22 PM
Hi everyone-

It's time to continue the holiday construction blitz!  This update we'll be looking at the conclusion of the 52nd Avenue widening project in Chemeketa.

But first off, replies:

City Builder: Thank you for the very kind words--I take that as a great compliment. :)  The trick, I've found, is to get just the right set of plugins to fit your aesthetic.  The big find I had before starting the Chemeketa region was mattb325's houses off the LEX, which have really helped shape my suburban residential areas.  One of these days, I'll have to compile a more complete list of just what all I have in there.

apeguy: Thanks!  I'm really glad you enjoyed the return of TC--it's good to be back with it, and I'll definitely have a lot more construction to show here, including this update.

Arthur (art128): Thanks, my friend--I'm happy to hear it was to your liking!

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks--I'm glad you liked the "opening salvo" of the spurt, and I hope the rest of it satisfies your appetite for construction/planning geekery. :thumbsup:

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): It's good to be back--thanks for the encouragement, and for your understanding of the whole spurt-lull cycle.  Hopefully, it'll make things a little bit more stable here in Tarkusian Cities for both me and all of the regular TC readers.

Eric (EDGE4194): Thanks for the warm welcome back--it really can be quite the balancing act.  I'm not really sure how I manage either. :D  Hope the rest of the "spurt" proves an interesting read!

Raphael (RickD):  Most likely. :D  There's tons of hidden references like that all over many of my regions . . . there's another TV series besides HIMYM that is heavily referenced in there, along with three bands.  I always enjoy sticking that sort of stuff in there, and am always excited when others pick up on it.  Thanks for catching the broken link, and for all your support of TC!

Joe (JoeST): Thanks, Joe--it's good to see you around these parts, and you're most welcome. :)  I'm glad to be continuing TC, and thanks for all the kind words and support!




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8113%2Fchemeketapublicworkslog.png&hash=39836e1f4988e87e06f9a78d681c1d9c7c70e027)

52nd Avenue NE Corridor Widening Project: Phase 3 (Scarlet to Ashcroft)


Phase 3 of the 52nd Avenue NE Widening Project will widen the section of 52nd from Scarlet Street NE (the west end point of Phase 2), west to Ashcroft Street NE, from 4 to 6 travel lanes, with a center left-turn lane along some stretches.

Here's a map overviewing the three phases of the project (click to see up-close):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F3149%2Fu8252ndmap.th.png&hash=574e098d98fe8f0ebd7310d0f4ce2914550e8e21) (http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/3149/u8252ndmap.png)

There's a couple hints on there as to the next projects to be undertaken.

This is the intersection of 52nd and Tamarack Street NE, roughly at the midpoint of Phase 3 (facing north).  Tamarack is a collector route that serves as the main access to many subdivisions in the area, and is the only signalized intersection between Ashcroft and Scarlet along 52nd.  Construction is already under way here.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg190.imageshack.us%2Fimg190%2F3235%2Fu822.jpg&hash=20a2231dbe86b2796d85bd36865953f131d48827)

This is at the intersection of 52nd and Willow (facing east).  In order to make way for the widened roadway, there will need to be some . . . ahem . . . demolition.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3032%2Fu823.jpg&hash=a85172e7ad25831a7834fcd1d3f8d46c8dde6355)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg341.imageshack.us%2Fimg341%2F1576%2Fu824.jpg&hash=96ff3b65efeac5af3e8bd49fb6d19e08edc65e4e)

This is at 52nd and Ashcroft, the western limits of the project (facing east).  As you can see, the right-of-way (ROW) is being prepped for the widened 52nd Avenue, which will also entail some demolition.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg690.imageshack.us%2Fimg690%2F4505%2Fu825.jpg&hash=8a32f0ac45404a9850ea3754b06260af7119ceb6)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg256.imageshack.us%2Fimg256%2F7259%2Fu826.jpg&hash=10cd812ac8ba05430255cebc07cddac8e3b13f2b)

In order to better facilitate work on the existing 52nd Avenue travel lanes, crews have paved up a section of the new ROW and diverted traffic onto it.  This is facing east, at the Ashcroft intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg269.imageshack.us%2Fimg269%2F8179%2Fu828.jpg&hash=de263ec1d46a7bf826930c6b5720f52969500247)

Here's where traffic is being detoured back onto the old ROW for the time being, just east of the Tamarack intersection (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg254.imageshack.us%2Fimg254%2F4510%2Fu829.jpg&hash=b534ec633faa818ab17dbe15d6e09ccf8929d621)

Work underway at the Tamarack intersection (facing east), with the old ROW partially repaved.  A temporary access route from the new ROW allows access to commercial properties near the intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg443.imageshack.us%2Fimg443%2F3963%2Fu8211.jpg&hash=81e9dc30c17873f357a77e41bebb293940346ecd)

The widening is largely completed at the western extent of the project now, at 52nd and Ashcroft (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg440.imageshack.us%2Fimg440%2F1905%2Fu8212.jpg&hash=d12ced6e5715625410472bba68efa848d51f3c4f)

This is at 52nd and Willow, post-widening (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg259.imageshack.us%2Fimg259%2F8847%2Fu8214.jpg&hash=49098e1b6301276aae6caec12b669e3544e9b950)

This is at 52nd and Tamarack, post-widening (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F6407%2Fu8215.jpg&hash=a6a4281e4408770cc79d751379e8f0ad43175223)

Later, soundwalls were installed for the subdivisions to the north, and the widening attracted commercial development to the south (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg703.imageshack.us%2Fimg703%2F6629%2Fu8216.jpg&hash=185e2343f3c7b4ffab5e079107e0c460bedd7dcb)

Commercial development was also attracted to the 52nd and Ashcroft intersection as well (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F2968%2Fu8221.jpg&hash=76183eac47234eac34033b3b0b772af5516e35af)

More new development near 52nd and Willow, including the newest addition to the Chemeketa Park Department, Willow Park (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg26.imageshack.us%2Fimg26%2F1740%2Fu8219.jpg&hash=e03369af12a9b32c7461597785e041d8fc2240ee)

And as mentioned on the map and during Phase 2 construction, here's what happened to the 52nd/Sorenson intersection--it was converted into a Right-In/Right-Out (RIRO) setup, allowing access to/from eastbound 52nd.  Access to westbound 52nd must take place at 52nd and Scarlet or 52nd and Rankine.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F2499%2Fu821.jpg&hash=22ad0be4e0246b4ef443424e87d13a1f94b19833)

That does it for this update of Tarkusian Cities and the 52nd Avenue Corridor Project.  We'll be onto the Highway 15/39th Avenue interchange project next time.

An interesting fact: this is the 25th entry dealing with the Chemeketa region, tying it with Argentum for the most focused-on region in Tarkusian Cities.  Next update, Chemeketa will break that record.

-Tarkus
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: deathtopumpkins on December 23, 2011, 08:07:17 AM
Nice update, Alex! It's always great to see what excellent things you can do with the NWM. And I love the little details in your construction projects like the river diversion and mitigation pond in update 81.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: art128 on December 23, 2011, 08:14:23 AM
Looks like the car on the seventh picture is training for some sort of Drift or race? :D

Anyway, excellent work on widening this avenue. Apart from the demolitions it looks much better now.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: Swordmaster on December 24, 2011, 06:58:45 AM
Great to see TC back! Awesome updates, Alex.

Cheers,
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: bakerton on December 24, 2011, 07:29:38 AM
Welcome back Alex. This latest update was wonderful. Waiting for more and that new interchange at 39th Street and hwy 15. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: Haljackey on December 24, 2011, 08:44:21 AM
Wow, these Ave-6s look so much better with a filled median! I'm assuming there's a mod for that somewhere... I'll have to look around for it. :)

You always take so much time and effort to show construction/reconstruction pics, and it shows. They are very well done. (I'm too lazy to do such a thing :P)

Anyways great work and Happy Holidays Alex!

-Ryan (Haljackey)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: Ramona Brie on December 24, 2011, 08:34:37 PM
@haljackey Tarkus tweaked jack_xu's AVE-2 mod for his own private use. I want that too, though.

Very nice update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 82-12/22/2011-Chemeketa: 52nd Ave Project, Pt. 3)
Post by: rooker1 on December 31, 2011, 06:43:41 AM
After following your MD very closely this passing year, it is you and the peer pressure that has gotten me to finally give the RHW a 110% try and to tell you the truth I may never go back to using the Maxis highways.  I just wish for a few more raised RHW pieces. ::) ;)
I hope your holidays have been great so far and I wish you and yours all the best in the coming year.
Happy New Year Alex.
Robin :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: Tarkus on January 01, 2012, 02:17:49 AM
Hi everyone-

First off, Happy New Year to all of you!  At any rate, I'm back with the first Tarkusian Cities update of 2012, which will involve the construction of a brand new interchange.

But first off, some replies:

Connor (deathtopumpkins): Great to see you, my friend, and thanks for the very kind words on the update!  I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the little details . . . I've seen enough of those wetland mitigation projects in this area that I'd be remiss if I didn't do something like that (especially as effective as the RRP flora are at representing it).

Arthur (art128): Heh . . . that little stretch of about-to-be-torn-up road would kind of make a good Gymkhana course. :D  Thanks for the kind words on the widening project--and fortunately, as much office space has been built in the area, the demolitions didn't inconvenience local businesses too much. ::)

Willy (Swordsmaster):  Thanks, my friend--it's great to be back, and glad you enjoyed the update!

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the warm welcome back and for the compliments on the update!  Hope you enjoy seeing the new interchange being built at long last. :)

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the very kind words on the whole construction approach!  I still remember when I first started doing it with the Argentum MD/CJ, it felt kind of odd, but it quickly became a natural part of my gameplay, and now it feels weird when I don't do it. :D  The AVE-6 medians are basically a personal tweak I did to jackxu's AVE-2 mod, which I hope to release (with his permission) at some point.  Hope you've had a great holiday season as well, and wishing you the best for 2012!

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the compliments on the update!  As far as the AVE-2 to AVE-6 T21 conversion, as much interest as there has been in my little tweak, I'll be checking with jackxu to see if he'd be alright with it.

Robin (rooker1): It always puts a smile on my face every time I hear from a new "RHW convert". :thumbsup:  I'm really flattered to hear that TC has proven an inspiration on that front, and I'm curious to see what all you'll do with the RHW--I'd second your plea for more raised content as well.  Slowly but surely, we're plugging away on that.  Thanks for the kind words and well wishes for the new year--hope you have a great 2012 as well! :)




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg860.imageshack.us%2Fimg860%2F8304%2F39thavebanner.png&hash=67ba4f9c42f236bd7733c98a34dd6899e0065415)

This project will rebuild the overpass of 39th Avenue NE in Chemeketa over the West Oregon Freeway (Highway 15) into a Single-Point Urban Interchange, and widen and rebuild several intersections along 39th Ave NE, within the Interchange Area Management Plan (IAMP) zone:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg685.imageshack.us%2Fimg685%2F1150%2Fu83map.th.png&hash=48f3448f01fac98a8af3df063e262ab0d8e3a976) (http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/1150/u83map.png)

The Halpert District in Northeast Chemeketa is an especially fast-growing part of the city, home to an increasing number of high-tech companies, and is also seeing considerable residential growth to the west.  In order to help better facilitate freight movement in this veritable crossroads of commerce, not only locally, but intrastate and interstate, ORDOT has decided to build a new interchange at the city's request along Highway 15, the main north-south freeway that runs through Olympus, Willamette and Siskiyou states. 

Currently, the main access to the Halpert District from Highway 15 is at the 52nd Avenue NE interchange, with subsidiary access to the north end of the district at the 71st Avenue NE interchange.  As there are plans for large-scale high-tech industrial development in the southern reaches of the district, ORDOT has decided to site the interchange at 39th Avenue, which already has an existing overpass, and is adequately spaced from the 16th Avenue NE and 52nd Avenue interchanges NE.  The necessity of this interchange is further heightened by recent residential growth in the southwestern reaches of the IAMP.

This is the existing 39th Avenue NE overpass, looking north.  It dates back to the time when the current freeway alignment of Highway 15 was first constructed, and only carries two travel lanes.  It is adequate at present, but is projected to drop below a satisfactory Level of Service (LOS) within the next 5 years, possibly sooner.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F4219%2Fu831.jpg&hash=893cac2322c313b6ea89006c66a2c101b8059d69)

This is the existing stretch of 39th Avenue just west of the overpass, looking north.  The two intersections seen (from left-to-right) are Mosby Road NE and Aldrin Way NE.

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This is the existing intersection of 39th Avenue/Bernard Way and Halpert Road, facing north.  As you can see, it has an essentially rural quality to it, a quality which the traffic volumes have outgrown.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F8172%2Fu833.jpg&hash=005931f04ffdf85bd041e848102dc413be1cf5a8)

Looking north, the overpass has been closed off for construction, and demolition begins.  Traffic on 39th between Mosby and Halpert must detour via 52nd Ave or 16th Ave.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg534.imageshack.us%2Fimg534%2F1457%2Fu834.jpg&hash=6a390f5f417ce05ce8235b7a47d83c4b369bfe5a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F6753%2Fu835.jpg&hash=1c04e2fb725a1727bcc0d1b87be2efdf4ec00c9e)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg20.imageshack.us%2Fimg20%2F2686%2Fu836.jpg&hash=960a9d185aee70dd9353a29241bce4dbf234f2b3)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg4.imageshack.us%2Fimg4%2F3185%2Fu837.jpg&hash=ac6c8687d20900d0158718036fde53c082092f18)

Grading begins on the widened 39th Avenue overpass, facing west.  39th Avenue will be widened to 4 travel lanes between Mosby and Halpert, and the re-alignment of the Hudson Road/Bernard Way intersection to the east will extend the 4-lane section farther.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg703.imageshack.us%2Fimg703%2F2341%2Fu838.jpg&hash=854f8df8d7188cb554f137711cc218f9be5447f0)

Work on the 39th/Aldrin intersection, just west of Highway 15, looking west.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg713.imageshack.us%2Fimg713%2F9003%2Fu839.jpg&hash=4e26b130996fe2b174e089a61e4d28885c29c1eb)

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Work begins on grading the widened eastern portion of 39th, looking west.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg585.imageshack.us%2Fimg585%2F9409%2Fu8311.jpg&hash=15cc8ffcebe3f1de5790b83d37a45b66859b2fec)

A boatload of cranes are in place, and work begins on building the new overpass and interchange, looking north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F2394%2Fu8312.jpg&hash=3c99e66fe49584da352e15babb6b37fda53f0671)

The main structure for the SPUI, including ramps from the freeway, is now more or less in place, facing north.  Work commences on building the rest of the overpass and connection to 39th Ave.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F8646%2Fu8314.jpg&hash=362abff73ba42f0b362b350ded7f5974df4c6865)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg842.imageshack.us%2Fimg842%2F2749%2Fu8315.jpg&hash=b099496071178106c48599789b664be2b8990636)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg844.imageshack.us%2Fimg844%2F7851%2Fu8316.jpg&hash=0d5a2b9ba8a239f39fe996f7ad4e8cd22b11608c)

Ongoing work at 39th and Halpert, facing north.  Both roads will be widened to 4 lanes with dual-left turn lanes at the intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg683.imageshack.us%2Fimg683%2F8773%2Fu8317.jpg&hash=d2dd5ec58607dcf662bd413891fd5e2fc2c4f3dd)

The improved intersection at 39th and Aldrin, facing north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg860.imageshack.us%2Fimg860%2F614%2Fu8318.jpg&hash=a8b07daa933f1cbdfe9f11a631e8db4d12ccf6c8)

The SPUI is now more or less ready to open, though the segment of 39th to the east, between the interchange and Halpert Road is still closed for widening (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg847.imageshack.us%2Fimg847%2F6392%2Fu8320.jpg&hash=bae41f323c9f1e575054e1db9136370952198ef1)

Paving is ongoing on Halpert and the east segment of 39th (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg820.imageshack.us%2Fimg820%2F4788%2Fu8322.jpg&hash=c53a1a51178d7998baa94e782dff4446da9e323a)

Traffic on Halpert has been detoured onto a temporary roadway while the new intersection is constructed (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F2950%2Fu8323.jpg&hash=c4e9617ccb1b4e7d5cac78116c901c55867fe12d)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg651.imageshack.us%2Fimg651%2F154%2Fu8324.jpg&hash=2b9e7061365f53c72b63e6bc46f1f548cfbf41c6)

The intersection is now open and ready for whatever development may come its way (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg807.imageshack.us%2Fimg807%2F6725%2Fu8325.jpg&hash=dc1d0988ef62078603d0a374f937d643397ae5ac)

The SPUI open for business and doing its job (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg42.imageshack.us%2Fimg42%2F3115%2Fu8326.jpg&hash=fb47acdebfb01d5b428aa7e4c77c3508929c5244)

That does it for this project.  Next update, we'll be looking at the Scarlet Street extension, followed by the last "chapter" of the spurt: a big ol' freeway project.  Hope you enjoyed this update!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: nbvc on January 01, 2012, 02:38:54 AM
Nice construction scenes. &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: art128 on January 01, 2012, 03:20:15 AM
I can definitively say that this SPUInterchange fits very well the area. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: Korot on January 01, 2012, 05:51:02 AM
Very nice pics, nice interchange. One comment though: why not widen the motorway to 6-lanes, while traffic is already disturbed, instead of having to do so later, when it will be absolutely necessary (especially with these developments happening)?
I think that I will use the SPUI in my cities soon, seeing how good it looks.

Regards,
Korot
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: rooker1 on January 01, 2012, 07:20:42 AM
 Very nice update. 
I have recently had some fun with that same interchange, but I did something a little different. ;)

Robin :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 83-1/1/2012-Chemeketa: Hwy 15-39th Ave Interchange)
Post by: Ryan B. on January 01, 2012, 08:35:30 AM
That's pretty awesome there, Alex.  Great construction shots - and involving an elevated SPUI.  Bravo!

I see some new-ish traffic signals in one or two of the pictures - any chance those get 'extended' to the dual left turn TuLEPs at some point?  (Probably after Project 0E is done ;))
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet St NE Extension)
Post by: Tarkus on January 04, 2012, 01:07:54 AM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with more Tarkusian Cities . . . this time, a little bit smaller project in the same part of town.

But first, replies:

nbvc: Thanks for the kind words!  I have a lot of fun putting those together.

Arthur (art128):  Thanks!  That was actually the first SPUI I seriously built in a non-test region . . . and as you'll soon see, Chemeketa will be bit by "SPUI fever". :D

Korot: Thanks for the compliments on the update and the interchange, and for posing an interesting question!  ORDOT is eventually planning to make everything from Chemeketa up to the alternate-universe Portland (which is actually called Boston--that's an interesting story) be 3 lanes in each direction, but they didn't quite have the funding or traffic volumes to justify starting on it yet.  The interchange was designed with room in the median for expansion, however, so it won't be too expensive for them when the time does come.

Robin (rooker1): Thanks for the kind words--you have me intrigued now as to what you did with the SPUI.  ;)

Ryan B.: Thanks, my friend--glad you enjoyed the construction shots and the SPUI!  Those "newish" signals there are, as I recall, an attempt at messing around with jondor's True3D Animated signal method . . . one of these days, I'll have to get back to that project.  (And those mast arm assemblies are actually slightly tweaked versions of your old models. :thumbsup:)




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[size="5"]Scarlet Street NE Extension Project[/size]

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg594.imageshack.us%2Fimg594%2F975%2Fu84map.png&hash=df28e5457efbfa6fa472424ac938aeaead925d7f)

This project will connect the two disconnected segments of Scarlet Street NE, separated by Sorenson Creek by constructing a new bridge, and extend the street south of 39th Avenue NE, to an extended 32nd Way NE.  Scarlet Street is a collector road that the City of Chemeketa has been gradually expanding with the intent of making it into a minor arterial, and in a later project, it will eventually be extended to connect with 19th Avenue NE.

This is the existing southern disconnected segment of Scarlet, accessed via 39th Ave (facing north).  The city, thinking ahead, stipulated that the developers of the subdivision seen here build a stub for a potential future extension northward.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg197.imageshack.us%2Fimg197%2F7690%2Fu841.jpg&hash=d7867fe160324a8c29df5f0d85443ab6487a6579)

The stub has been widened into a 3-lane configuration, and a signal has been installed at 39th (facing north).  An initial stub on the southern extension down to 32nd has also been built.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg26.imageshack.us%2Fimg26%2F1856%2Fu842.jpg&hash=549faa6788d47c02d3383701aedc0b24d217d362)

The northern and southern segments are still separated by Sorenson Creek (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg507.imageshack.us%2Fimg507%2F654%2Fu843.jpg&hash=782fb191787bdab330d2d1a67379b65701cab9cb)

Crews work on a bridge over the creek (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg810.imageshack.us%2Fimg810%2F5176%2Fu844.jpg&hash=2dd3d9ac7ad68f4f708c415102812120b064bc34)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg716.imageshack.us%2Fimg716%2F6392%2Fu845.jpg&hash=80c6b2fa76f38f938650279ce1da239929231239)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg339.imageshack.us%2Fimg339%2F6545%2Fu846.jpg&hash=8db1bdb2562d743b1e66a738a7ff8eb554dc64f2)

Now that the bridge has been constructed, work resumes on the Scarlet Street south of 39th (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg812.imageshack.us%2Fimg812%2F7311%2Fu847.jpg&hash=9eb313b98a93b1a944b5e143236c08ab4378d404)


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F5940%2Fu848.jpg&hash=bf6c5f9b3cf34020f3b85542e4e38ccfbb470a14)

This is the southern bounds of the project--the new intersection of 32nd Way and Scarlet Street (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg830.imageshack.us%2Fimg830%2F3521%2Fu849.jpg&hash=e81f34ffbc0dd3e6449259b321e2cb07ab7adb18)

This is the intersection of 32nd Way NE and Sorenson Street NE, which was constructed during the realignments of the Rankine-Dallas Corridor project (facing north).  32nd Way is being extended west to meet up with the southern extension of Scarlet Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F5669%2Fu8410.jpg&hash=f8343ee7134f19361f19ae49c4734d1852f25a6d)

The intersection of 39th and Scarlet with the southern extension mostly in place (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg140.imageshack.us%2Fimg140%2F1604%2Fu8411.jpg&hash=6eae16d7cf2fa0da90d38f1dd9809f741440e229)

The new intersection of 32nd Way and Scarlet, with a stub in place for the eventual further extension of Scarlet (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg31.imageshack.us%2Fimg31%2F3872%2Fu8412.jpg&hash=7f46d52b4cb99b8dde541c350f5630b0b67a419b)

And that does it for this update--hope you enjoyed it!  Next time, we'll be looking at a really big project--the next phase of the Chemeketa Parkway.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: Korot on January 04, 2012, 06:42:20 AM
Once again, nice pictures. I am, however, feeling kinda lost in this town, perhaps you could add a region map to next update? Thanks!

Regards,
Korot
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on January 07, 2012, 10:38:32 AM
Nice update Alex!! :thumbsup:



HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: art128 on January 07, 2012, 12:14:10 PM
SPUI fever eh ? My region is going to be hit by the highway fever soon... but sill I need to find some good looking compact interchange to place in some narrow areas.

Anyway, nice looking development once again Alex. The shot with the bridge over the creek is my favorite of the series.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: thundercrack83 on January 07, 2012, 07:22:16 PM
Hi, Alex!

Long--well, extremely long--time, my friend!

Amazing stuff that you've got here, I must say! The SPUI really has me wanting to do some experimenting of my own, and as always, your maps and construction make things unique here.

Can't wait to see more!

Dustin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: Ramona Brie on January 08, 2012, 02:13:10 PM
*licks lips* Yay! This is always so exciting.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: Haljackey on January 08, 2012, 06:40:58 PM
So much content here... had to keep up! :P

Regarding your AVE-6 median, yes it indeed looks awesome! You said you modified it from jackxu's mod? That only adds a median to the AVE-2 right?

Do any AVE-6 medians exist for download? If no, then I'm insanely jealous of you. :party:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: noahclem on January 09, 2012, 04:50:54 AM
Very nice work on the last couple updates Alex  &apls  Your thoughtfully-planned interchanges, intersections, and neighborhoods are always a pleasure to view. Looking forward to the next phase of the Chemeketa Parkway!

Also, a Happy New Years to you and Tarkusian Cities  :party:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: EDGE4194 on January 14, 2012, 09:47:10 AM
Alex- nice work on the last two updates. I especially enjoyed the SPUI construction project. You always make it as realistic as possible.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 84-1/4/2012-Chemeketa: Scarlet Street NE Extension)
Post by: bat on January 15, 2012, 10:37:11 AM
Wonderful work on the previous updates!!!
And nice city map.
Looking forward to update 85. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Tarkus on January 15, 2012, 05:10:14 PM
Hi everyone-

RL reared its head up a good bit before I could get into my planned conclusion of this construction arc, but with a little bit of a respite, I'm finally back with the concluding arc of this "spurt" of updates--the Chemeketa Parkway project.

But first, replies:

Korot: Thanks for the kind words!  And your wish is granted this update--there's a brand new full region road map featuring details on the latest project this update. :thumbsup:

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks for the compliments and the wishes for the new year--hope 2012 is treating you well, too!

Arthur (art128): Yes, SPUI fever--and it arrives this update!  I've found the FlexSPUI to work pretty well in terms of compactness, ditto with really slim-profile diamond setups.  The addition of Multi-Height RHWs and a few more transition pieces will help out a great deal, too, in future RHW updates.  And thanks for the kind words on the update--I'm glad you enjoyed the construction, and I'd have to concur--that pic over the creek is probably my favorite of the update as well. :)

Dustin (thundercrack83): Great to see you, my friend! :thumbsup:  Thanks for the compliments on the maps, update and the SPUI, and I'm glad I could help inspire--I'd love to see what comes of your experimenting!

Raymie (Tracker): Your thirst for construction is about to be quenched, my friend--hope the wait was worth it, and thanks for your continued support of TC. :)

Ryan (Haljackey): Hehe . . . yeah, that's kind of how my spurts go. :D  Thanks for the kind words, and as far as I know, the only AVE-6 median mod released is Ganaram's adaptation of the Maxis AVE medians, up on the STEX (http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/26790-maxis-styled-ave-6-median-pack/), and jackxu's mod is indeed AVE-2 only.  That said, I did drop a PM to Jack this afternoon regarding my developments, so we'll see. ;)

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the compliments on the updates!  I'm glad the interchanges and neighborhoods were enjoyable to see--I certainly enjoyed building them. :)  And a Happy New Year to you and Siilijoki as well. :thumbsup:

Eric (EDGE4194): Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed the last two updates, and thanks for the kind words on the realism.

bat: Thanks, my friend--hope Update 85 is to your liking, too!




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Project Map
http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0 (http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0)

The Chemeketa Parkway Project will complete a "quarter-loop" freeway connection, between downtown Chemeketa's Division/Commerce Street couplet and Highway 15 (the West Oregon Freeway) through North Chemeketa, partially using the existing alignment of Highway 219. 

Phase 1 of the project updated the 2-lane stretch of Highway 219 between 28th Avenue NE and 52nd Avenue NE (Highway 221) to an access-controlled freeway with grade-separated interchanges at 39th and 52nd Avenues and a RIRO (right-in/right-out) at 33rd Avenue. 

Phase 2 of the project will build a new stretch of freeway parallel to existing Highway 219 between 52nd and 71st Avenues with 3 travel lanes in each direction, as well as a new interchange at 71st Avenue, which will be re-aligned to connect into the existing northern segment of Highway 219 that heads toward Windsor.  As the alignment of the Chemeketa Parkway from this point diverges from the initial routing of Highway 219, ORDOT has decided to truncate Highway 219 to the new interchange at 71st Avenue and assign Highway 215 to the Chemeketa Parkway and Division/Commerce Streets between Highway 36 and Highway 15.

This is an existing stretch of 71st Avenue NE (facing north).  The construction work there marks the alignment of the new Chemeketa Parkway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg594.imageshack.us%2Fimg594%2F56%2Fu851.jpg&hash=21869b82cf51afba1d6074a2f5ca18b4717ed1cd)

Here is the existing curve on Highway 219 just south of its intersection with 71st Avenue (facing north).  The work on the left side of the screen represents ground clearing in preparation for the Chemeketa Parkway (now Highway 215).  The work on the right is for a frontage road that will, at least for the time being, connect 59th Avenue with 71st Avenue.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg809.imageshack.us%2Fimg809%2F2759%2Fu852.jpg&hash=5fcef131935a8e11b0d93c6fbc648f8f5ebf2c7e)

More work underway at 71st and the future parkway (facing north).  The radio station there will be forced to relocate in order to make way for the new Single-Point Urban Interchange (SPUI).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F6678%2Fu853.jpg&hash=ccf3786a867a25b416e770e044e2e05d170cb267)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F5721%2Fu854.jpg&hash=9a951309d598b114d5fed1121a0e080745e0b755)

71st Avenue has been closed off for construction purposes (facing north).  It will be re-aligned to the west of the interchange, where it will connect into the existing northern segment of Highway 219, and the segment to the east will be widened and partially elevated.  Motorists can use 52nd Avenue, 59th Avenue, or Progress Street/Bushnell Road to Withnall Way in order to access Highway 219 in the interim.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg840.imageshack.us%2Fimg840%2F7337%2Fu855.jpg&hash=d3445a029a7f842c40b86abec4f741498838671c)

More preparations for the new interchange (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg818.imageshack.us%2Fimg818%2F6765%2Fu856.jpg&hash=f20b94f200b73da367f587f6ed5be7c4c96fbaaa)

The elevated structure for the actual interchange itself has been constructed (facing north) and awaits further connections.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg641.imageshack.us%2Fimg641%2F8456%2Fu857.jpg&hash=b5da41e320dd6099ccb8c3e7daf2e26a7cb0fd36)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F215%2Fu858.jpg&hash=a411a8b6c4f036aac3bdc6e1f8341c0f583a8b76)

East of the new SPUI, 71st has been widened to 4 lanes and placed on an embankment, eliminating the at-grade rail crossing (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg194.imageshack.us%2Fimg194%2F3363%2Fu859.jpg&hash=0ecdca971317ea117bce537b212ccb93d24b0533)

Grading west of the interchange on the new connection to Highway 219 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F4548%2Fu8510.jpg&hash=f22b12911bcb797e69fa0d13f46461d500beea42)

Paving on the new stretch of the parkway (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg840.imageshack.us%2Fimg840%2F5411%2Fu8511.jpg&hash=fdf435a67d861ee3cbb63ce564565fd73cde20d5)

Here, you can see the existing alignment of Highway 219 near its intersection with 59th Avenue NE and the end of Phase 1 work, with the right-of-way cleared for Highway 215 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg408.imageshack.us%2Fimg408%2F5413%2Fu8512.jpg&hash=9549ea6c1d36e7c56cb4dbd0db9332475f5bfeb5)

New and old collide, just south of the old 71st Avenue intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg856.imageshack.us%2Fimg856%2F2296%2Fu8513.jpg&hash=e212463865716d3185a4324111cae8c74d10d3d3)

A stretch of the new "jog" on Highway 215 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg337.imageshack.us%2Fimg337%2F9530%2Fu8514.jpg&hash=da21f4c0465fe63b1d6fb78037d5eaaf5c3fb33a)

This is where the new Highway 215 alignment will connect with the existing stretch of the Chemeketa Parkway/Highway 219, just south of the 52nd Avenue/Highway 221 interchange (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg36.imageshack.us%2Fimg36%2F7443%2Fu8515.jpg&hash=bbbb278cb4f7cab8521c67554b89149463c368a3)

The ramps on the north side of the 52nd Avenue interchange have been closed, and existing Highway 219 has been detoured slightly to ease the construction of the connection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg714.imageshack.us%2Fimg714%2F7084%2Fu8516.jpg&hash=7afd3ba6dd2b10f4b96b70a16c04882c26203df9)

The construction alignment at 59th Avenue (facing north).  You can see that the new alignment is progressing quite nicely at this point.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg692.imageshack.us%2Fimg692%2F2986%2Fu8517.jpg&hash=cc2fee5844cc500964982fc593f2994824c294e6)

Getting ready to connect the new alignment in (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg685.imageshack.us%2Fimg685%2F9961%2Fu8518.jpg&hash=cc4ece03e1d88ac9565d2ce7bb56272eb541b863)

The new alignment being connected into the 52nd Avenue interchange (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg525.imageshack.us%2Fimg525%2F7198%2Fu8519.jpg&hash=1b68ac5dd392e23f627cc098bb21bc9092d52df2)

The old stretch of Highway 219 will be dead-ended here for the time being (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F1048%2Fu8520.jpg&hash=9b42e75ebb085fd4df1d2f62f94323763e46101e)

This is the new 71st interchange, finally open to traffic (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg545.imageshack.us%2Fimg545%2F3457%2Fu8522.jpg&hash=480a5a8e892913acf96f560838628a428a7c5832)

This is just north of the new 71st Avenue interchange (facing north).  The highway currently just dead-ends at a barrier, but will be extended north (and eventually east) in the next two updates.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg515.imageshack.us%2Fimg515%2F2350%2Fu8521.jpg&hash=83fd0b2e8990ef34dbd4d33855522dea440e34b0)

An overview of the big curve on the new Highway 215 alignment, with the frontage road connecting 59th up (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F5397%2Fu8523.jpg&hash=109c0f9fe54ccd6953a50b324ce8dfc9d082d0fb)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  We'll be looking at Phases 3 and 4 of the Chemeketa Parkway/Highway 215 in the next two updates, respectively.  And if you looked at the map in detail, you should have some idea of what this will entail . . . lots of new interchanges to look forward to.

Hope you enjoyed it!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: dedgren on January 15, 2012, 05:21:46 PM
You've satisfied this roadgeek, Alex, at least for the afternoon.  It'd be gravy to see a region shot at this point.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Haljackey on January 15, 2012, 05:48:38 PM
FAR-tastic work Alex! I don't often see the FARHW-6 used, and you pulled it off quite well! Looks great!

Thanks for the link to the AVE-6 medians. Finally that gap in my wide roads will be filled!

That SPUI looks awesome too.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Ryan B. on January 15, 2012, 06:14:25 PM
That's outstanding, Alex!  I see what you did there as well with the SPUI . . . left some room for expansion!  You can definitely fit a RHW-6C under that overpass!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: cmdp123789 on January 15, 2012, 07:35:36 PM
Where did you get the walls? The ones used on the SPUI...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Ramona Brie on January 17, 2012, 05:43:54 AM
When I get a chance I will download the tweaked AVE-6 mod. Way overdue! The construction is really nice too, and the map is a real help! Someday I wanna see some of the smaller "suburbs" of Chemeketa — Windsor, Tweedy Junction,  the 99th/107th/Rankine area in rural Marion County, and Minto.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: RickD on January 17, 2012, 08:09:25 AM
My roadgeek-self is very pleased with this update. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Battlecat on January 17, 2012, 12:47:02 PM
A very road geek worthy update!  The construction scenes are always interesting to see!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: jgehrts on January 23, 2012, 07:40:38 AM
Well, that was pretty much completely awesome. I'm roadgeeking out over here...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: noahclem on January 23, 2012, 10:29:11 AM
Great job with the new alignment and interchange Alex  &apls  An elegant solution and a thorough explanation  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 85-1/15/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 2: Hwy 215)
Post by: Will12 on January 24, 2012, 08:23:51 AM
Nice!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: Tarkus on February 05, 2012, 04:55:37 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with another installment of Tarkusian Cities.  We'll be continuing the Highway 215 Chemeketa Parkway project with Phase 3, which will construct a freeway to connect Downtown Chemeketa to Highway 15 to the northeast, through the fast-growing northern suburbs.

Because there were so many images that resulted during the construction of Phase 3, I've actually split Phase 3 into two parts. 

But first, replies:

David (dedgren): Thank you for the kind words--I'm glad I was able to fill your roadgeek fix for the afternoon. :thumbsup:  I will have a region shot in just a few more updates--I have a couple more projects to show before the big reveal.

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks, and I'm really glad you enjoyed the FARHW-6 usage there and the SPUI.  I hadn't used FARHW-6 much beyond testing myself before that, so I was glad to have an excuse to use it there--I think it fit in pretty well.  And you're welcome for the link! :thumbsup:

Ryan B.: Thanks for the compliments on the SPUI, and yes, it does look I have room for it.  I have, for a long time, had a tendency to put a 1-tile blank median between my RHW-4s, perhaps as that's kind of the standard deal here in Oregon . . . does definitely leave that possibility, though the capacity doesn't quite merit it.

cmdp123789: That particular SPUI just uses the dirt from the SFBT Construction Set.  The previous SPUI at 39th (Update 83) used Walls Pack 2 by Mas71 (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1504).

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the kind words on the update, and I'm glad the map proved helpful!  So far, it looks like Ganaram's mod is probably going to remain the only one on the market, as I still haven't heard back from jackxu.  And you will get to see a few glimpses of Windsor this update, and in two updates, you'll see the Rankine Lane/99th/107th area.  Tweedy Junction will also be getting quite a bit of construction soon, and I'll see if I can find a way to sneak Minto into an update (there isn't any construction planned in that area right now).

Raphael (RickD): Thanks--I'm glad I satisfied your roadgeek fix, too, and hopefully, this update does more of the same for you. :)

Gordon (Battlecat): Thanks, my friend--that means a lot coming from someone who also has a knack for roadgeeking out in MDs, too! :thumbsup:

jgehrts: Thanks, I'm glad it proved to be "awesome"!  More roadgeekery is forthcoming. :)

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the compliments on the alignment/interchange!  I'm glad the explanation was thorough enough, as some of my updates can get pretty convoluted sometimes. :D

Will12: Thanks!  I'm glad it was to your liking.




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg684.imageshack.us%2Fimg684%2F8858%2F215chemeketapkwyphase3p.png&hash=cc4556c89e0b0d00cb2b4ad031df03305d2c8eec)

Project Map:
http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0 (http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0)

Phase 3A of the Chemeketa Parkway project will continue the construction of the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215), access-controlled freeway, from the Highway 219/71st Avenue SPUI to Bushnell Road NE.  As part of the project, some nearby transportation facilties will also be upgraded, including realignment of the Bushnell Road/Progress Street NE intersection, and improvements to the Windsor Industrial Rail Spur.

This is an overview of the project area (facing north).  The town in the upper left (northwest) corner is Windsor, a rural suburb of Chemeketa with a population of roughly 2000.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F3720%2Fu861.jpg&hash=598740033b94ed2dc17bd5c189bf215ba34adee0)

This is at the intersection of Bushnell Road NE and Progress Street NE (facing north), two major roadways in this vicinity, which will be realigned in order to accommodate the freeway alignment and improve traffic flow.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg52.imageshack.us%2Fimg52%2F4331%2Fu862m.jpg&hash=26832aebbb02e7016d25aa65ca24bec442a8a1ab)

This is where the Chemeketa Parkway will meet the rail spur to the industrial area (facing north).  In order to keep the freeway fully access-controlled, it will require the road to become elevated, in addition to realignment of the spur.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg688.imageshack.us%2Fimg688%2F622%2Fu863.jpg&hash=28406fc450143c2713b2bd34f3358b1590056df3)

Here is where the spur meets the mainline of the railroad (facing north).  This mainline is one of the most important in the entire region, connecting the entire Willamette Valley.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg577.imageshack.us%2Fimg577%2F6259%2Fu864.jpg&hash=738e679b1e3e65aae30e24dc7fbcad82c889a942)

Constructio begins on the spur (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg33.imageshack.us%2Fimg33%2F9022%2Fu865.jpg&hash=a484fc24c56f98ef9e06c0048d65ca047d9549fd)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F1300%2Fu866.jpg&hash=1f892884fe0f751e3dbb29fa0aa96f497760797f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg607.imageshack.us%2Fimg607%2F1898%2Fu867.jpg&hash=a419c388deb503379cb64ac01d5d9d5fb0259ed3)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg830.imageshack.us%2Fimg830%2F3011%2Fu868.jpg&hash=b6ffb1ee2b74bd8c258be0d9676384f05590988d)

Here is where the spur meets Highway 219 (facing north) just south of Windsor.  The cross street at the top is Withnall Way NE.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg803.imageshack.us%2Fimg803%2F6469%2Fu869.jpg&hash=adfe0c380f049785dcda6a9658f75d0871cd9dde)

Here is where the spur reaches the heavy industrial area (facing north), near the intersection of 99th Avenue NE and MacFarland Road NE.  As part of the realignment, the spur will be upgraded to two tracks between the industrial park and the mainline.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F3696%2Fu8610.jpg&hash=2971a461d0b31fdaebfdcbbbfb9d7488d6999344)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg545.imageshack.us%2Fimg545%2F7563%2Fu8611.jpg&hash=8f1559e74f1bf8dade016ce695fd0021128c831f)

Here is work on the freeway overpass over the spur (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F7271%2Fu8612.jpg&hash=935ef471e65dd9fd135061755217d6e4d07a0b07)

This is where the Chemeketa Parkway meets the mainline (facing east), under construction.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg651.imageshack.us%2Fimg651%2F6935%2Fu8613.jpg&hash=b9461e3b0eeae334f9d48fded26f3ab6e4e418f4)

This is at the intersection of Bushnell and Progress again (facing east).  As you can see, the curve on Progress is right in the way of the freeway alignment.  To that effect, Progress will instead head north and connect directly into the northern segment of Bushnell.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg18.imageshack.us%2Fimg18%2F6139%2Fu8614.jpg&hash=f06ce21f1923ddd11934edc38e2fb8c6bb43f4d5)

Paving underway (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F8625%2Fu8616.jpg&hash=43b3bd91bc827a4be7adc61853a28d14ba2ead7d)

The realignment is open, and traffic from the southern segment of Bushnell can temporarily access Progress and the northern segment sing the temporary connector road.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg826.imageshack.us%2Fimg826%2F7564%2Fu8617.jpg&hash=3ed6e6389161217f44bbc94abfc71b3436a5175a)

This is further north along the realignment section that is now completed (facing east), though as you can see, some motorists don't seem to have gotten the message (must be GPS users).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F9301%2Fu8618.jpg&hash=2f0306ae833fc934d71af38994b188e0e9bd0a7d)

This is the southern part of the realignment (facing east).  The southern segment of Bushnell will directly T into Progress Street, and to mitigate any confusion with navigation and emergency vehicle dispatch, the southern segment will be renamed 82nd Avenue NE between Progress and Ashcroft.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg839.imageshack.us%2Fimg839%2F8881%2Fu8619.jpg&hash=0b9f8acfef8612f1fbb5de301ec2427694ccfbe2)

The new 82nd/Progress/Bushnell intersection will be signalized with added turn lane capacity (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg337.imageshack.us%2Fimg337%2F9413%2Fu8620.jpg&hash=53124234f8c210da89f732129e0f326788f6ef35)

And it's now opened up (facing north).  And apparently, those GPS users still haven't a clue.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg543.imageshack.us%2Fimg543%2F2952%2Fu8621.jpg&hash=1267dd78d96fa644877e9d0539db07c74b209deb)

The temporary connector is now closed off (facing north), and the remnant of the northern segment of Bushnell has been realigned to end at a cul-de-sac just north of the freeway, to allow access to the local farms.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg560.imageshack.us%2Fimg560%2F2977%2Fu8622.jpg&hash=5337c44b9d2984657a951e83d58b67d4fd869f28)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg825.imageshack.us%2Fimg825%2F48%2Fu8623.jpg&hash=5258c308a467e39dd33006c55bd26e5879ab0c0b)

Work can now commence on building the freeway and the Bushnell Road interchange (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F7854%2Fu8624.jpg&hash=cceff972107b54f962d59f0bf3c5b72fa285925f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F4464%2Fu8625.jpg&hash=1fbaa6e8e0a7b9c4a255a892b1b19b297fd90532)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg687.imageshack.us%2Fimg687%2F9687%2Fu8626.jpg&hash=a3c67d68a957a2e8a4b130cfc11ef2cf1e91f88c)

And here's an image of the interchange, completed (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg837.imageshack.us%2Fimg837%2F8259%2Fu8627.jpg&hash=97b4db732a1e8a4f9bc37a5caa380c4df1fc52dd)

That does it for this update.  I'll be back with Phase 3B soon, which will go up to the Ashcroft Street interchange.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: threestooges on February 05, 2012, 09:14:45 PM
Always love the forethought that goes into the construction Alex. Interesting realignment of the rail corridor. Am I right that it's now become a double track spur, or is it still a mainline? I also like that the majority of the track was left in place save for the crossings. will these become abandoned or are they going to be reclaimed by the rail company?
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: dedgren on February 05, 2012, 09:31:46 PM
Is there room under that new overpass over the new tracks to run a bike path?  The old spur line, depending on where it fits into the scheme of things, might make a nice rail-to-trail segment.

It would be great to see some BATs that would allow the more realistic creation of trail networks on disused RR roadbeds.  Blank trestles, that sort of thing.  Big culvert ends for getting foot traffic safely across busy roads and highways and under railroad tracks would be pretty nifty.  Sorry for the tangent, Alex.  There's something about reading TC that makes me think of stuff.

Excellent update, my friend.


David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: metarvo on February 06, 2012, 07:59:35 AM
It's interesting to see a TC update that has at least somewhat of a focus on rails.  You know, I had a crazy idea when I saw the old STR segment next to the new DTR line.  If there were such a thing as STGLR (Single Track Ground Light Rail), then the old STR segment could be re-purposed as a GLR line in anticipation of future growth.  Good work as always, Alex!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: bakerton on February 06, 2012, 07:59:48 AM
I have to agree with Dedgren (David) about rail to trails. It would look great. On another subject, Alex, you have "spur"ed my imagination with the new rail spur and new bridge, highway, and road consruction out in the farms. The farms look lovely and it is a big change from the city scenes and I love them both ways. Looking forward to more soon. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: noahclem on February 06, 2012, 08:52:42 AM
Great update Alex  &apls  The new alignments all make sense and look good. The only suggestion I have is that it would be nice to iron out that extra "S" curve that's left in the STR spur leaving the DTR. The update on the map looks great too--I really need to get around to updating mine!

Looking forward to the next phase  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: Grneyes on February 06, 2012, 11:25:37 AM
Very nice! I love all the road curves. I tend to forget about those when I'm making roads, I just want to get them done and over with and forget to take the time to be creative.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: apeguy on February 06, 2012, 02:35:09 PM
Nice update, a bit of a surprise to see some railway development as well as roads, but a great update anyway. ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: AcoG000 on February 06, 2012, 03:41:19 PM
gonna have to agree with apeguy, a bit of a suprise to see railway development. but in other words, another fantastic update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: Ramona Brie on February 07, 2012, 08:02:54 PM
Awesome as always!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 86-2/5/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3A)
Post by: SimCity V6 on March 20, 2012, 03:29:43 PM
Great MD, Tarkus!!!  &apls I hope you continue making more awesome updates!

P.S. Lucky #1300 coming in 10...9...8...

Double-posting in a 2-minute timeframe to get a -00 post is not acceptable. -Admin
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: Tarkus on March 20, 2012, 04:42:01 PM
Hi everyone-

First off, thanks for your patience between updates . . . RL's been beating up on me pretty good, but I seem to have emerged victorious from it, fortunately. :thumbsup:  I'd also like to thank everyone who nominated Tarkusian Cities during the Trixies over at ST . . . it ended up winning Best Roadgeek CJ for 2011, which was a very pleasant surprise.

We've also now hit 1300 posts here in the SC4D edition of TC and are approaching 150,000 views.  I will add, with a note of regret, that I am ending the "Double Zero" honor tradition here.  The intention of having it, much as was the case with 3RR, was to create a way to honor regular and new readers who helped the MD reach a new milestone.  I've been able to acknowledge quite a few TC readers since it opened in 2007.

However, in the past year, including 2 of the past 3 "-00" situations, there have been blatant attempts to grab it by circumventing site rules and standard forum decorum (hey, that rhymes!), but double-posting in quick succession with nothing really to say, or, in one particularly gross violation, someone actually opened a clone account to avoid detection of a quadruple-post.  To this effect, I am going to be exploring alternate ways of letting readers become part of TC lore, "getting on the map" and such.

Without further ado, replies:

Matt (threestooges): Thanks for the kind words on the construction planning and the railroad realignment.  Yes, it is indeed a dual-track spur now, which makes some sense in light of the fact that there's quite a bit of industrial development there (and more to come).  The old single-track has been ceded from the railroad's owner to Marion County, and they're still deciding what to do with it.

David (dedgren): Always great to see you in here, my friend, and thank you for the compliments on the update and the interesting idea.  I don't think I could quite squeak a trail under the overpass, but given that I had been considering a trail along the western edge of the Chemeketa Parkway (which would be shoreside south of 71st/Hwy 219), I could probably link it in there somehow.

metarvo: Thanks, my friend--I'm glad you enjoyed the little tangent there.  It seemed like a pertinent thing to do during the update, really.  I don't know that the spot there would necessarily merit a GLR line . . . actually Chemeketa has no mass transit of any sort right now, and still has traffic flowing well with a large population and a Medium-capacity simulator.  I'll have to show my congestion/volume views at some point, as I'm quite proud of how I've "beat the system".

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the kind words on the switch over to rural scenery . . . it has been awhile since I've done that, and I'm glad you enjoyed that excursion.  I'm increasingly in favor of the trail idea . . . it could work quite well there, especially since on the north end, it could be extended to be a lengthy riverside trail and pass through the wetland-ish areas to the northwest of Windsor.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks!  I'm glad you found the new alignments logical . . . I tried a few things with that DTR/Dual STR split there at the industrial area, but that was the best I could do at the time with what was available (and without making 99th Avenue make a weird jog), though I might revisit it.  And I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the map!

Grneyes: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the road curves!  I'm kind of partial to them as I helped develop them back in '07 (along with David and memo). :)

apeguy: Well, you know what we NAMites say: we like to surprise people, so it's only natural something like that will slip in.  Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you enjoyed the update!

AcoG000: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the rail bit sneak in as well! 

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks, my friend--hope this next one proves sufficiently awesome, too.

SimCity V6: Thanks, and I will indeed keep on with the updates.




(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg684.imageshack.us%2Fimg684%2F8858%2F215chemeketapkwyphase3p.png&hash=cc4556c89e0b0d00cb2b4ad031df03305d2c8eec)

Project Map:
http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0 (http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0)

Phase 3B of the Chemeketa Parkway project will continue the construction of the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215), access-controlled freeway, from Bushnell Road NE to Ashcroft Street NE.  As part of the project, some nearby transportation facilties will also be upgraded, including widening of Ashcroft St between 82nd Avenue NE (the former southern segment of Bushnell Road NE) and the interchange at Chemeketa Parkway.

This is where Ashcroft Street will meet Highway 215 (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSXYix.jpg&hash=b98636441e449632e59a5555cb95d8df6aa28a79)

A temporary alignment of Ashcroft has been built, to facilitate construction of the new overpass (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMvuyD.jpg&hash=1dbb149d998a96147f9aff89c9748816e5a9e495)

Construction getting further underway (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPut1U.jpg&hash=6a4c8ee4cb2664a507f02cf966352054429e903f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbI6CF.jpg&hash=4a168f8d91822fa3730878837f7c47c83859e58f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxfJ2S.jpg&hash=78cf5a4377661335dc97894cef0fcffb7c494cc0)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGvr1P.jpg&hash=7b07db5806ab470809e96927961f73da315526f6)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F65mq7.jpg&hash=2d69476c76cacdc7d7404cf2c3a2eb29b7aae5bc)

The freeway itself is starting to go in now (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmNmE9.jpg&hash=7b148d3f7273db7cf490c24b65039b9770110794)

The new 4-lane Ashcroft St overpass has opened (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FT2E88.jpg&hash=255153bc659b172aac437a466ff98d574d62f2f1)

This farm access road is in the way of the new freeway alignment.  It will be disconnected, with the southern segment being connected into the 82nd/Ashcroft intersection (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOs5jy.jpg&hash=bf6f1551485942df361c12a56a443acc212c3508)

Construction on the new southern connection (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCHrre.jpg&hash=3decbe8fce2d9e2d61a7e3cd1205fe4360f7baf2)

You can see Ashcroft Street (and 82nd Ave NE) here.  This segment of Ashcroft is still getting widened (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCl0Je.jpg&hash=20a154469a7ec12ec3b55835f69239bd6b803b9f)

The completed new roadway, with a fresh layer of asphalt (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhNqrd.jpg&hash=7dcb924e432ef89040629b50cdcbffe06968faf5)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsKQ8i.jpg&hash=b290ce9fbea1ba053fc9c4adc02c692be6eee430)

The road now split by Highway 215 (facing east), which, as you can see, has a deceleration lane.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3kLrK.jpg&hash=dbf4e5176075654eb509ce332982ca6b4b8a901c)

And a look at partially folded diamond interchange at Highway 215/Ashcroft Street (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIhKlU.jpg&hash=f5061455d7aff3680c56937ecb6c9b7f09633b8e)

Well, that does it for this edition of Tarkusian Cities.  I'll be back next time to finish off Phase 4 of the Chemeketa Parkway, where it'll finally be connected into Highway 15.  After that, we'll look at a few other little construction projects around Chemeketa, and then we might move onto a new region--a complete reboot of Argentum. ;)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: sim_link on March 20, 2012, 06:08:07 PM
Congrats on your Trixie win, Tarkus - you totally deserved it. ;) It is unfortunate that people would double post for a -00 post. I was actually trying to post earlier today, and couldn't find the reply button (I didn't notice the thread was locked... woops. :P)

Anyways, another great construction update! Your process is definitely very interesting, I like seeing the area transform with the roadway improvements - especially freeway related. The many different types of interchanges you use make it more fascinating, as opposed to always using one specific kind.

Look forward to the completion of the project. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: RickD on March 21, 2012, 02:38:23 AM
Great to see a new update. And congrats on the well deserved Trixie.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: rooker1 on March 21, 2012, 04:00:09 AM
Really great update.  I love following your methods of transportation expansion.
Just to let you know a little something.....I don't think I could ever go back to regular Maxis transportation networks, especially the highways. ;) I'm a believer now!

It's too bad a few ruin it for the many.  &mmm  I look forward to seeing what new idea you come up with.

Robin :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: apeguy on March 21, 2012, 10:29:35 AM
Another great update. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I also look forward to seeing the Chemeketa Parkway connected to Highway 15, I imagine that'll be quite a big construction project. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 87-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 3B)
Post by: Ramona Brie on March 21, 2012, 04:47:17 PM
Always beautiful. You do everything so well thought-out, like a real transit planner. That's why I ALWAYS love this place.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/20/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Tarkus on March 22, 2012, 02:11:21 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back again with some more Tarkusian Cities . . . at long last, we'll be finishing up the Chemeketa Parkway.

But first, replies:

sim_link: Thanks for the congratulations and the compliments on the update!  I'm really glad you like my choice of interchange selections along the Parkway . . . there's going to be some . . . rather interesting . . . ones on this last stretch.  And thanks for the support/understanding on the -00 thing--and sorry about the lockdown earlier.

Raphael (RickD): Thanks for the kind words and the congratulations!  I hope this next update proves satisfactory as well. :)

Robin (rooker1): Thanks!  I'm really glad you enjoyed the update, and it sounds like I've converted you, too. :D  Hopefully this next update will prove inspirational, and again, thanks for the support! :thumbsup:

apeguy: Thanks for the compliments on the update--and your wait is over. ;D

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the all-too-kind words, my friend!  I'm glad I was able to live up to the Tarkusian way this update.




Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215): Phase 4 (Ashcroft to Highway 15)

As we left off last time, with Phase 3B, the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215) had been built up to (and slightly past) Ashcroft Street NE, almost to its eventual endpoint at the West Oregon Freeway (Highway 15).  Here's the map again for reference purposes:

http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0 (http://gmapuploader.com/view/rNw5WI20v0)

This final segment of the highway will involve the construction of new interchanges at Rankine Lane NE and Highway 15, as well as the reconstruction of the 99th Avenue NE interchange on Highway 15 to minimize weaving conflicts.

What you're looking at here is the eventual "endpoint" of Highway 215.  The existing highway there is Highway 15 (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fmgmia.jpg&hash=27d6537f43849632bba3fc83fb25edfa433243e1)

This is at Rankine Lane NE, which will be getting an interchange (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FSxjyG.jpg&hash=34bbcf2e3c8db4382edaab312b48eefed91a2bc0)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQ43o2.jpg&hash=6ed89562ec51c9d1c9706bd6f0aeca0faccf5c83)

In the interim, to help aid traffic flow in the area, the segment of Highway 215 from Ashcroft to Rankine has been built, but currently ends at Rankine with a signalized T-intersection (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmOkWb.jpg&hash=b5a9bd75430cdc742870059dc15517d55b7c7929)

Work on the overpass (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fmfvq3.jpg&hash=279701d339d44b170294ba132a59c24009e59f40)

Work on the 15/215 interchange is also coming along nicely (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fq2yV3.jpg&hash=8d413effbb3ea38634a73c8508aaa1fedf394521)

Ramp closures at the 99th Ave/Highway 15 interchange (facing south).  It will be converted from a Diamond to a Parclo AB (Folded Diamond) as part of the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4hLXQ.jpg&hash=29d0aecc3b6f196bfad93cee07b4b2bc4b2082ed)

A majority of the work is now done on the 15/215 interchange (facing south).  It's kind of a screwed-up trumpet: a flugelhorn (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flugelhorn), perhaps?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCgX7W.jpg&hash=bb26742a14a7a91fd9f5ce8a9d063e3b300a8dc6)

The Rankine Lane interchange has been built up as well . . . it's a SPUI, as the vicinity will be seeing quite a bit of development in the near future, and capacity is a must.  The Rankine area is a fast-growing exurb of Chemeketa. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F213gZ.jpg&hash=91a9d8c79adfb6233653d8690fd93257edf33315)

This is one of the weirder aspects of the Highway 15/215 interchange: a "tail" ramp that connects Highway 215 up with Halpert Road NE. (facing west)

Work continues at Hwy 15/99th Ave (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FESubv.jpg&hash=3223dbca3a45c6e7107f8be6632ce1c43716f863)

The interchange has been closed off completely now--the overpass will be widened as part of the improvements (facing south).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Ff0kiL.jpg&hash=d7ec9fa0edc0f869eba4b2dd336db7bda2550cb8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOvGhv.jpg&hash=ebec13c99c8e39b3c679e11e02647147fc003d2f)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FnlnWB.jpg&hash=69f68d640d18f159619b46d52de4d3686f214305)

The overpass is now open (facing south).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F81Mmq.jpg&hash=36e18a29967d070fb9e4d7f1c15931a85b85cfc8)

Another look at the "Flugelhorn Interchange" in action (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQ3vLg.jpg&hash=90d5a87d8ad20d877b9341b6a62aade338a374c8)

An even more zoomed out shot (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwXriz.jpg&hash=d4600de2e554e46e83b4c20439fc6334df823401)

The completed Parclo conversion/widening at 99th Avenue (facing north).  The change in design will give traffic coming from northbound 215 more space to merge onto mainline northbound 15.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAqaaQ.jpg&hash=9545780d70d69f52d0c9cf88a1adc86b801b35c4)

Fast-forwarding a little, a look at some of the development that has sprung up along Rankine Lane at the interchange (facing north).  We'll be taking a closer look at this area at some point in the not-too-distant future.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fju8N9.jpg&hash=22922c8aff5069cfcf421583c30ed8d0786cbc58)

Well, that does it for this update, and for the Chemeketa Parkway project.  We'll look at a few other little projects in the area and other developments there next time . . . I also have a new region or two that might sneak in--we'll see. ;)

Hope you enjoyed it!

-Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Swordmaster on March 22, 2012, 03:26:17 PM
Great work, Alex. Love them maps!

Cheers,
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on March 23, 2012, 01:48:40 AM
Nice work -- I notice some visual upgrades to the RHW-4 diagonals too... that definitely makes it look better. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: MandelSoft on March 23, 2012, 02:38:18 AM
Nice looking interchanges again, Alex, though I would recommend using cosmetic pieces for the accelleration/decelleration lanes...

(Do I spot RHW-4 diagonals with overhangs there? ;) )
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: noahclem on March 23, 2012, 12:00:33 PM
That's a heck of a flugel horn  &apls &apls   Very creative layout, I really like it!

I enjoy the other interchanges as well and the diagonal RHW-4 is great  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: apeguy on March 23, 2012, 05:02:50 PM
I really like the flugelhorn interchange, very imaginative and well-made. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Another fine update Alex, I look forward to the next. ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Haljackey on March 24, 2012, 09:30:13 PM
Awesome last updates! There's always progress here. That Flugelhorn has to be the best I've seen... Seeing that elevated MIS ramp squeeze between those RHW curves is impressive!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: SimCity V6 on April 02, 2012, 09:12:44 AM
Nice SPUI, Flugelhorn and Parclo!  :thumbsup: I wonder why your bridges and ERHW networks have all those white cement-ish color on them. Perhaps a mod?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Ramona Brie on April 06, 2012, 11:50:49 AM
Quote from: SimCity V6 on April 02, 2012, 09:12:44 AM
Nice SPUI, Flugelhorn and Parclo!  :thumbsup: I wonder why your bridges and ERHW networks have all those white cement-ish color on them. Perhaps a mod?

It's been off and on in development for concrete overpasses.

Very nicely done.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Ryan B. on April 09, 2012, 05:58:23 PM
Hey, it's a Wegmans!  :P

I know it's said a lot in here, but I think it's awesome how much fore-planning goes into your upgrades.  Das Flugelhorn was genius, and it's always good to see some of the new things in action (love the concrete ERHW/EAVE/ERD-2 textures-just needs contrast markings! :P)

Keep up the awesome work . . . and if you need signs, you know where to find them.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 88-3/22/2012-Chemeketa Parkway, Phase 4)
Post by: Wiimeiser on April 11, 2012, 11:45:59 PM
There's a small residential area near the Flugelhorn. If you're building another one like that, I'd suggest directly opposite the Flugelhorn with the offshoot road continuing into it. And you're moving to a new region after this, from what I read?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 89-4/23/2012-Wallace Road NW Widening)
Post by: Tarkus on April 23, 2012, 01:15:55 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back with more Tarkusian Cities . . . the start of another brief "spurt" of updates, beginning with a brief little "prelude" this update.

But first off, some replies:

Willy (Swordsmaster): Thanks for the kind words--glad you enjoyed the map, and hope the new one from this update is to your liking!

Daniel (Shadow Assassin): Thanks for the compliments--and I'm glad you noticed the RHW-4 diagonals.  I had sneaked in my experiments with expanding them to an overhang that update.

Maarten (mrtnrln): Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the update and the interchanges, which I really take as a compliment coming from someone as interchange-savvy as yourself!  ORDOT will be fixing the markings there :), and yes, you did indeed spot an overhang there.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words--I'm really glad you found the interchanges to your liking, and especiallly the flugelhorn interchange. :thumbsup:  It's kind of an odd design (and not out of place in terms of RL Oregon interchange design) . . . but I think it works well in that context.  Glad you liked the RHW-4 diag setup there, too . . . something to look forward to with the next release. 

(A note to the curious: Chemeketa's still running on a slightly tweaked RHW 5.0 . . . it hasn't yet been switched over to P57.)

Alex (apeguy): Thanks for the compliments on the flugelhorn--it was interesting building it, to say the least. :D  Hope this next update proves to your liking. :)

Ryan (Haljackey): Coming from an interchange master like yourself, I consider that a great compliment--I'm really flattered that the Flugelhorn is to your liking. :thumbsup:  Thanks for the kind words on the update!

SimCity V6: Yeah, I stuck quite a few different varieties in there, didn't I? :D  To answer your question, I was indeed experimenting with concrete textures.  Ran those through my "Concretifier", actually.

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks for the kind words on the update!  And for explaining the concrete bit.  They'll probably make the rounds officially once P57 is in place.

Ryan B.: Indeed it is. :D  We don't have any of those here in RL Oregon (it's mostly a Safeway/Albertsons-dominated market), but they fit in pretty well with the generally suburban aesthetic.  Thanks for all the kind words on the planning--I'm thrilled that you enjoyed Das Flugelhorn.  And thanks for the signage offer--I might just have to take you up on it one of these days, though be forewarned as much as my roads change around, it's quite a task. :D

Wiimeiser: That area will be getting a little bit of development at some point, though not quite yet.  I was going to move to a new region, but I had some new inspiration with Chemeketa, so I'll be sticking with it for a bit longer.  Perhaps Update 100 will see the new region? ;)




First off, here's a new map . . . this shows the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215) completed, as well as giving a peek at the direction of future improvements in Chemeketa.  You'll notice some red boxes with numbers, denoting projects, as well as some dotted lines.

http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xEvZ3cVDhr (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xEvZ3cVDhr)

Wallace Road NW Widening (South of Greenwich to 43rd Ave)

This project will widen the stretch of Wallace Road NW in Vivien Heights from 3 to 5 lanes between just south of Greenwich Ave NW and 43rd Avenue NW, just south of the interchange at Highway 221.

This is Wallace Road NW just south of the intersection with Greenwich Ave NE (facing north).  It's a 3-lane road (2 travel lanes with a center turn lane), which functions as the main artery between Highway 221 and the city center of Vivien Heights.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFD2iN.jpg&hash=0b7c17e8ee7028c39f5c784e2981f62d98899cd0)

This is just a bit north of that intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Flr3lU.jpg&hash=dd15b6cb6599ac237f5f1e66c2d441630619c92b)

This is at Wallace Road and 43rd Avenue NW (facing north), a major road that leads to the western reaches of town, up in the hills--you can see construction preparation is already underway at the bottom of the image.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FaQmNx.jpg&hash=9cb1de9bb7f2b9db794729c89433c934bd1a6edc)

The grocery store there had to be torn out to make way for the widening (facing north).  Vivien Heights has been operating under a construction moratorium for some time now due to inadequate transportation facilities, but these restrictions are due to be loosened upon the completion of widening, which will open the west side of the road to commercial development, allowing a replacement to be built.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FD9plF.jpg&hash=e2e05103cab49737c3dae3eb771802519304dee5)

Wallace Road has now been widened (facing north), though the pavement on 43rd has been torn up, as it'll be rebuilt to handle turn lanes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FgBnmE.jpg&hash=b72aa767d7867e1f563ff07ce2e1bfcaba5c5c98)

43rd has been rebuilt (facing north), and the intersection signalized.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9maJh.jpg&hash=47b68624a01975aec0f0f1c80f97ad09bab164eb)

This is just north of the intersection at 43rd (facing north), where the road currently narrows back down to 2 lanes, just south of the interchange at Highway 221.  The interchange will be rebuilt substantially in future updates, as the area north of Highway 221, as well as land immediately west of Wallace, will finally be opened up to development.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fssy5r.jpg&hash=96af5a6ab4029424003bbfdafb31d1399e257bf5)

Here's the intersection at 43rd now that all the construction equipment is out of the way (facing north).  A park has been built at the site of the former grocery store.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlDtUg.jpg&hash=793815294f47cec134afd803adb896e501a4cdf0)

That does it for this update.  While I had initially planned on switching gears over to a new region, I've had a bit of a "second wind" with Chemeketa and am still planning out how to present the new region, so we'll be staying in the same vicinity for awhile.  Lots of construction still to do. :)  Hope you enjoyed it!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 89-4/23/2012-Wallace Road NW Widening)
Post by: Korot on April 23, 2012, 02:03:32 PM
Nice update! One minor thing about the map though: is it possible to make the link to it such, that you don't start completely zoomed out, but zoomed in somewhat. Because right now, the actual 'city' is only a very small blop, when you open the map. And yes, this is a bit nitpicky, but it still annoys me.

Regards,
Korot
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 89-4/23/2012-Wallace Road NW Widening)
Post by: RickD on April 24, 2012, 12:49:43 AM
Great to see a new update.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 89-4/23/2012-Wallace Road NW Widening)
Post by: apeguy on April 24, 2012, 07:38:31 AM
Nice update. I love the map you've made. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 89-4/23/2012-Wallace Road NW Widening)
Post by: noahclem on April 25, 2012, 03:03:59 PM
Great work Alex  &apls  As always very thoughtfully planned, from the intersections to the reasons for and timing of development. As always the map is just great--definitely an inspiration!

I have to say I'm happy you've got a bit of a second wind for Chemeketa--I'm quite excited to see what you've got planned next but I'm not quite ready to say goodbye to Chemeketa just yet  :thumbsup:

And to reply to your reply, I think those more random, less-easily categorized interchanges are the most fun, in SC4 and RL--character is always a plus  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Tarkus on April 27, 2012, 01:39:35 PM
Hi everyone-

Tarkusian Cities latest "spurt" continues.  First off, I'll do some replies:

Korot: Thanks for the kind words, and to answer your question about the map, unfortunately, I've not found a way to set things up that way using Gmapuploader.  If I knew how, I'd just embed the map into my post.  One of these days, I'll have to study up on the Google Maps API, but there's bigger tasks at hand for me right now (RL and in my little bit of free time, NAM stuff).

Raphael (RickD): Thanks--it's good to be back, and I hope you enjoy the rest of this brief "spurt'!

Alex (apeguy): Thanks for the kind words, and I'm really glad you enjoyed the map. :)

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, my friend--I really appreciate the compliments and feedback.  I'm glad I got a second wind with Chemeketa as well . . . I realized there was still a lot I wanted to do with it. :D  And lots of places I can do interesting new things . . . you'll definitely be seeing some more difficult-to-categorize interchanges, including in this update.  :thumbsup:




This update will focus on a variety of miscellaneous projects on the north end of Chemeketa and Vivien Heights that are in various stages of completion.  As we saw last time with the Wallace Road widening, the construction moratorium has been lifted in North Vivien Heights, and the land north of Highway 221 (which crosses the Willamette and turns into the very familiar 52nd Ave NE in Chemeketa) was opened to development.  Here's a map again:

http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xEvZ3cVDhr (http://gmapuploader.com/iframe/xEvZ3cVDhr)

Those roads with the dotted lines on the north end of the orangish area (which represents the Vivien Heights City Limits) are roads that will be (or in some cases, already have been built) as part of the developmental plans.

Among the most notable is an extension of Greenwich Ave NW (Project #5--the projects are arbitrarily numbered), which will include the construction of a new bridge and roundabout that will connect it to Highway 219 and 71st Ave NE on the Chemeketa side of the river.

This is on the tail end of construction (facing north).  The bridge is in place (thank you, DBE!) and the roundabout is about ready to be connected.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJH5IK.jpg&hash=f11f48696ea41b65a8d492366f6b5665c7023eb8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FW0PCJ.jpg&hash=3437222c7638f4ded1ae01af0fb8ba71c9a05e8f)

You may notice the roundabout has a southeast leg that simply leads to a dead end at present.  Eventually, this dead end will be bridged over Highway 215 and connect into the old (pre-Chemeketa Pkwy) segment of Highway 219 and 59th Ave NE, as the area around the roundabout and the 71st Ave interchange will be developed.  There are also plans for a bike/pedestrian trail along the river that will tie into this development.

Next, we'll take a look at Project #3 on the map, along Highway 221 itself.  In order to provide more access to the new development (and not have traffic weaving incessantly from Wallace to Greenwich along 221), a new roadway is being built to connect Wallace Road up with the Greenwich extension just southwest of the bridge.  Additionally, as development is occurring to the west, in the hills, 221 is in need of further expansion itself.  As a result, the interchange at Wallace Road is being reconstructed into a weird diamond that retains the flyover from 221 NB onto Wallace SB.

Construction has begun already in this image (facing east toward Chemeketa).  The southbound lanes on 221 have already been demolished, and some temporary reconfiguration for construction staging is already underway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FnXbVJ.jpg&hash=8e8fd94d8737fd2669c505e098e4942d6d81d58c)

Grading begins on the extension (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FR0AL2.jpg&hash=53575e0acc7fcdc6999dc272eed5b3526f9de289)

Another overpass ramp bites the dust (facing east).  Access to the last bit of 221 into Chemeketa is temporary accommodated by this at-grade ramp . . .

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FK6Urp.jpg&hash=e8353a87f5a327d7f9c4be70a9047252137f34db)

though staging ultimately required that it be shut down immediately.  The mainline has been diverted onto Wallace Road itself, with a rather circuitous alignment so work can continue on the interchange.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FWkYL7.jpg&hash=512987f9dcb3875fc72eea778bd86d3de18bf2da)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFkVn8.jpg&hash=296e734b63f2a05d27ee96066ad2303d7f38194f)

Southbound lanes being rebuilt (still facing east).  The section west of the interchange will be widened to 4 lanes for a brief stretch (which will eventually get extended further).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwkxuB.jpg&hash=672b25dd927b36fac728cce018da3e328e8425fb)

The mainline is mostly back open again (facing east), though access to Wallace is being accommodated by another temporary at-grade intersection. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjG82S.jpg&hash=8830acb9ef1f09f5c8fa04420e76f15aa8547f18)

The at grade roadway has been turned into an exit ramp now, and things are back to being access controlled (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFLEES.jpg&hash=cf772f0a9f4ebc0cad04abd64241c9e845ad8454)

The flyover ramp from 221 NB onto Wallace SB has been reconnected (facing east).  Someone on the construction crew didn't get the memo about making the whole thing concrete, however. :P

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZBKg8.jpg&hash=1a50052054cfb3c4136521b2a20d09ba0afe2f4b)

This is farther west, in a section of town you haven't seen yet.  This is at the intersection of Highway 221 and Doaks Ferry Road NW (facing west), AKA Project #4.  (Fun fact: the real Salem, OR has an intersection of Highway 221 and Doaks Ferry Road.  It's not too far off the location of this one.)  As there's been a lot of residential development going in on Doaks Ferry, the intersection will be turned into a grade-separated interchange (with a Super-2 for the present). 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5osgI.jpg&hash=d044e065b63e8f68efc499cc21081ecb11fc46ef)

This is an S-Curve on the existing alignment of Highway 221 just west of the Doaks Ferry intersection.  (facing west)  It'll be eliminated as part of the interchange construction.  The small substation there will also need to be relocated as part of the project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNSR7z.jpg&hash=0554b894bf6c2c1763a9f46d6259ede8077a7991)

The a replacement substation has been built with a new access road (facing west).  The new location will allow the utility district to expand the substation without fear of future (inevitable) expansions of the highway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FH0z0Q.jpg&hash=653d75e7483b3d497fa06c32824b2b5f4ef8d626)

Another inconveniently located grocery store is demolished (facing west).  It's right in the way of where the overpass will be located.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FstRSK.jpg&hash=87ceecaaf5dd64745ac65262c3cda7455d6eead7)

Doaks Ferry has now been closed off for construction.  Motorists can still access it from 43rd Ave NW.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fl5bbL.jpg&hash=6fff974416056254f445fd37e1d1ecb16a309144)

New roadway being built for the S-Curve straightening (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5mMqP.jpg&hash=cb587a9fc8f5eed04cfde48219d9530dcae5aa18)

A little peek at the new interchange (facing west).  It's a half-diamond/half-parclo with a roundabout connecting the parclo segment.  These improvements are somewhat temporary . . . more will be done here before much longer.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FS7EVE.jpg&hash=5e9a651b9f70924ab745c86fedfdf56c8c5e9dcb)

That does it for this update.  We'll take a closer look at some finished results from this area next time, and then, the big Sorenson Street realignment on the other side of town.

-Alex 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: noahclem on April 27, 2012, 02:07:13 PM
Excellent work Alex  &apls &apls

I'm a big fan of everything this time around. DBE is awesome and I've always thought those avenue roundabouts looks best when they use diagonal connections. Moving on, the next one is hard to categorize indeed! No flugel horn but born of the same mindset I think. I struggle to remember where I've seen an example of such but I'm pretty sure I've come across something a bit similar in the American Midwest or Pacific Northwest. Providing stopless access between the freeway and one of the instersecting roads is an appealing solution for me as a driver and planner  :thumbsup:

I'm also very interested in the bike trails along the river  ;D

Until next time!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: apeguy on April 27, 2012, 02:13:51 PM
Another update packed full or roadgeekery. ;D ;D Great work as always. &apls


Also, have you ever considered making a tutorial for those awesome-looking maps? ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Shadow Assassin on April 28, 2012, 06:22:41 AM
Quote(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FS7EVE.jpg&hash=5e9a651b9f70924ab745c86fedfdf56c8c5e9dcb)

Nice to see your sims are inconsiderate litterers too. :D

Awesome update though, that end of town is taking shape.

Actually, one little thing that bugged me: the Flugelhorn (I assume that's the intersection of 15 and 215 in Marion County)... that eastern approach (from Halpert Rd NE) doesn't seem necessary to me at all since people can just get off for that road at the parclo on 99 Ave NE... is there a particular reason why it's there, basically? :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Wiimeiser on April 28, 2012, 09:27:54 PM
Quote from: Shadow Assassin on April 28, 2012, 06:22:41 AM
Actually, one little thing that bugged me: the Flugelhorn (I assume that's the intersection of 15 and 215 in Marion County)... that eastern approach (from Halpert Rd NE) doesn't seem necessary to me at all since people can just get off for that road at the parclo on 99 Ave NE... is there a particular reason why it's there, basically? :P
I'd personally extend it across to become another road, like for a housing estate
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Haljackey on April 28, 2012, 09:58:13 PM
Never knew diagonal bridges could look so good. Awesome work Alex! That's a pretty complex interchange reconstruction... the use of that flyover was ingenious!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Durfsurn on April 30, 2012, 06:35:46 AM
Quote
Awesome update though,
Actually, one little thing that bugged me: the Flugelhorn (I assume that's the intersection of 15 and 215 in Marion County)... that eastern approach (from Halpert Rd NE) doesn't seem necessary to me at all since people can just get off for that road at the parclo on 99 Ave NE... is there a particular reason why it's there, basically? :P
Yeah is it there to make lazy drivers lives easier? Or to create confusion? Loved the update though.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 90-4/27/2012-Greenwich Ext Bridge, Hwy 221 Work)
Post by: Ramona Brie on April 30, 2012, 05:34:30 PM
Lovely! Sorry for not keeping up.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 91-8/13/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on August 14, 2012, 12:55:17 AM
Hi everyone-

After a nearly 4-month hiatus, Tarkusian Cities is back in the thick of construction season.  I have a few capital improvement projects all around Chemeketa to showcase, which, for the first time in awhile, will entail visiting the south side of town.

But first, some long-awaited replies:

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the very kind words--I especially take the feedback on the DBE usage as a compliment, given your masterful usage of it in Siilijoki! :thumbsup:  There are indeed a few interchanges like that one in the Pacific Northwest . . . I'm not aware of one exactly like it around here, but it has this one in the real Salem (http://goo.gl/maps/7Dfl0) and this mess in Eugene (http://goo.gl/maps/E6LUW) in its DNA.  I'm still intrigued by the bike path idea along the parkway . . . just trying to figure out what set I'll use for it. :)

apeguy: Thanks for the compliments on the update--I'm really glad you enjoyed the roadgeekery there.  I did indeed create a tutorial on my mapmaking techniques a few years back, which can be found in Update 22 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg111886#msg111886).

Shadow Assassin: Thanks for the kind words--I'm glad that side of town is to your liking!  Yes, it looks like the cops need to start cracking down on that littering. :D  That carries a pretty hefty fine around these parts.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FHGr7J.jpg&hash=619204baf1bd607ebc7a7d7fea7eff20b37ea049)
Sign located on Interstate 84 Eastbound in Portland

I'd also agree on the current lack of utility on that extra little spur off the flugelhorn, though as there will be some development in that area in the not-too-distant future (industrial, to boot), it'll come in handy then, by providing direct access both to 15 and 215.

Wiimeiser: It probably won't get extended further, but there will be some development in close proximity to it that'll make it seem more useful.

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the kind words on the diagonal bridges and the interchange--I'm really glad you liked the flyover!  Not sure what all I'd classify that interchange as . . . I suppose it's a kind of a split diamond with a C/D and a flyover.

Durfsurn: Glad you enjoyed the update, and so far, it hasn't created too much confusion, fortunately.

Raymie (Tracker): Thanks!  And with the hiatus, it'll make it a little easier to keep track of things here. :D




First off, a current region map, to reacquaint yourself with Chemeketa.  (Trying out a new color scheme here, too.)

Current region map: [link] (http://gmapuploader.com/view/EN56GZVciE)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg809.imageshack.us%2Fimg809%2F5599%2Fordotlogo.png&hash=c23aebc28b505fcaa1861aa3e8b9151631208021)
Highway 36/Sorenson Street Project

PROJECT OVERVIEW

ORDOT has identified that the segment of Highway 36 between downtown Chemeketa and the interchange with Highway 15 as a viable candidate for capital improvements.  Among these improvements, one particular project was shortlisted for construction, the interchange with Sorenson Street.

Sorenson Street is a north-south arterial maintained by the City of Chemeketa, which provides access to several major industrial areas, and has long been a source of congestion.  While city public works projects have noticeably improved the road well to the north of the project area, the portions of Sorenson Street in the vicinity of the existing interchange with Highway 36 is a 2-lane roadway with a 30mph speed limit, and has not seen much improvement since it was a semi-rural road on the outskirts of town.

As a result, it suffers significant congestion, and operates at LOS D at most hours, dropping to LOS F at the interchange and immediately south during peak hours.

As part of the project, ORDOT will be modernizing and re-aligning Sorenson Street, widening the roadway to include 4 travel lanes, from just south of the interchange, to 5th Avenue NE.  The City of Chemeketa will be widening and re-aligning Sorenson between 5th and 16th Avenues NE in coordination with the interchange redesign.

The illustration below gives a rough outline of the improvements planned for this project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5ytjgl.png&hash=251010a50070fa101c1a62bce4466b650d46c6b5) (http://i.imgur.com/5ytjg.png)

PRE-CONSTRUCTION CONDITIONS

This is where the ramps to and from Highway 36 eastbound intersect Sorenson Street (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtQfeq.jpg&hash=f2fd3377a6872884a3d75ceb5f0df7b183a557c5)

Here is a full overview of the interchange area, with earth moving commencing on the new alignment of Sorenson Street (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fokz43.jpg&hash=db041c89fcb260121df3fbb579104f5dcc58da50)

This is an overview of the area surrounding the intersection of Sorenson with 5th Ave NE (facing north).  As evidenced by the outlines of preliminary preparations for construction, a number of structures will need to be demolished to make way for the new roadway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKWxsi.jpg&hash=198bc9018ab34576d0a3d22b3280fccf19700786)

This is at the north end of the city's improvement project, at the intersection of Sorenson with 16th Ave NE (facing north).  The segment north of 16th has already been widened to 4 lanes, and this project will widen the segment to the south to match.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fi4jP0.jpg&hash=decaaaa6a41aa02909c14042b6b12a22058d248d)

DURING CONSTRUCTION

Another look, a little farther south, with some preliminary construction preparations underway (facing north).  Sorenson will be realigned slightly toward the west, with more slight curvature.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3CF95.jpg&hash=3f545b6c82413a20148dc248a91b1c3db3721ef3)

Demolition of structures near the interchange has commenced (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fbl9CP.jpg&hash=304cbf48e386e6c32d21868c99d20e6f9bdbb130)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfTmbj.jpg&hash=f90e8632900c562d71fb8e08fcaf9fb7335929aa)

Just north of 5th Ave (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOB34x.jpg&hash=18de2b1bc6398f6359bb985a7335b342f9b2048a)

Farther north, near the existing curve (facing north):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fi5f6G.jpg&hash=6d32473d549ee34683c02d2e00164f4b5ba4ef47)

This small pocket of residential will not be directly connected into the new alignment Sorenson Street, and will instead be accessed by a segment of the old alignment, which will be retained for local access purposes (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fu7zhi.jpg&hash=4e7f790894b9407b40fa8ee8f5ee5d43fb1b1eeb)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfdvT1.jpg&hash=67128c1c630228f68e5d322e143ceaac9b28fa91)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFtkiO.jpg&hash=1cee1a1a58f4c6ca982dcf6b6aa31445ede2f8c9)

Closer to 16th Ave (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4cPTI.jpg&hash=095936a314fb41f99f3e7082b17b94ef728e0eb3)

A portion of the new alignment has been constructed, and 9th Place NE has been extended to it (facing north).  This extension will provide access to the portion of the old alignment that will be retained for local access, and will minimize disruption during construction staging.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0abKK.jpg&hash=97002d594881d7fd0d42e65f08b84e18af2e7e60)

The collector roadway just to the north (Meander Drive NE) will also be realigned, with its intersection with Sorenson being moved roughly 300 feet north (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FcDnMP.jpg&hash=b2193ec4ca4ca2b3f8c4fc3748cdd6d4d2d1a9c8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FdlcwV.jpg&hash=8ba3f31077ec72eaabbf820da2bbaf46f5f44aad)

This is back at the new 5th and Sorenson intersection (facing north).  You can see the old intersection just to the right.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGvFfW.jpg&hash=3df1437ce46121c85423b24662787b8ea3e396e2)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  Next update, we'll be delving more into the reconstruction of the interchange itself.  Hope you enjoyed it!

-Alex


Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 91-8/14/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 1)
Post by: noahclem on August 14, 2012, 04:59:32 AM
Nice work on the realignment  &apls  It's very interesting to return to the south side of town (I've only seen this area from the maps) and of course glad to hear it's construction season over there!

Those were quite the interchanges you sent in the links. So idiosyncratic with a nice compactness and greenness that could let them blend in in an urban area like that without too much eyesore/NIMBY effect. Speaking of interesting interchanges roadwork seems to be getting suspiciously close to your 4-way interchange there. You don't happen to be preparing for a P-57-based revamp of the area by any chance, are you?  :P

As for the bike paths there are plenty of good options. The SFBT high-wealth ones have been my set of choice but the MMP paths from the Rural Renewal Project are nice and allow a bit of extra freedom, SA's paths are a good choice, and I think Paeng's newer park sets are bike friendly and quite attractive. And the easiest way to make any park area look beautiful is to liberally add girafe and VIP tree MMPs (IMHO).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 91-8/14/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 1)
Post by: kj3400 on August 14, 2012, 02:55:59 PM
I had to make a double take at your sig. You, with an update, today?  :P
The map looks great. I've always loved maps, which is prolly why I incorporate so many in my own updates.
The update and area are impressive as usual. I'm wondering if braided ramps will be used or a c-d system for those interchanges being so close.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 91-8/14/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 1)
Post by: Swordmaster on August 16, 2012, 04:34:30 PM
Great update, Alex. Glad to have spotted it in time (very busy these days).

Cheers,
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: Tarkus on August 17, 2012, 01:36:38 AM
Hi everyone-

Construction season is still in full swing, and another new update is upon us.  We'll be taking a look at the completion of the Highway 36/Sorenson Street interchange.

But first, replies:

Noah (noahclem):  Thanks for the kind words on the realignment--that one was a lot of fun to plan out.  While there will be a couple more projects that will spring up on the north end of town in the near future, the south side is in some dire need of some improvements . . . some which will likely end up serving as teasers for NAM 32. 

The big Highway 15/36 interchange won't be getting much done to it for awhile still.  It'll likely see some action when Highway 36 gets further revamped, though.  I have actually converted most of Chemeketa's RHWs over to the first version of P57 specs as a test of the 5.0-to-P57 conversion code (which went relatively smoothly). However, the P57 specs are being revamped to a second, better-planned version (P57-2), which eliminates a few nagging quirks of the original spec, but hasn't yet been deployed. 

And thanks for the great suggestions on the bike path sets--I'll have to check those out. :thumbsup:

Kenny (kj3400):  Yes, it's shocking, isn't it? :D  Thanks for the compliments on the map and the update.  There actually is a C/D setup there already for the eastbound lanes, as shown back in Update 62:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg819.imageshack.us%2Fimg819%2F5176%2Fu626.jpg&hash=fc93736248403b55d53320e112a12afadc541506)

The westbound side of Highway 36 will also be getting C/D lanes as part of the Sorenson Street interchange project.

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks, I'm glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for taking the time to say hello here!



(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg809.imageshack.us%2Fimg809%2F5599%2Fordotlogo.png&hash=c23aebc28b505fcaa1861aa3e8b9151631208021)
Highway 36/Sorenson Street Project (continued)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F5ytjgl.png&hash=251010a50070fa101c1a62bce4466b650d46c6b5) (http://i.imgur.com/5ytjg.png)

Last update, we left off with the northern segment of Sorenson Street being realigned and widened to 4 lanes, between 5th and 16th Avenues NE.  This construction update will focus on the southern part of the project area, including the reconfiguration of the Sorenson Street interchange along Highway 36. 

Due to the high volume of truck traffic coming from the industrial area to the south, and the close proximity of the McCabe Street and Highway 15 interchanges to the Sorenson Street interchange, ORDOT has opted to replace the existing diamond/parclo hybrid with a first-in-the-region diverging diamond interchange (DDI).  The DDI will be connected into collector-distributor roadways to the east.  Proximity matters on the west side of the interchange will be mitigated by the future Highway 36 Chemeketa Center Modernization Project, which is currently planned to move the access points.

The new alignment of Sorenson Street has been built out toward Highway 36, and the existing parclo loop ramp on the north side of the interchange (providing access to and from westbound 36) is being demolished (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FecoXN.jpg&hash=702147685c03498369abd3b36bf3861756ff44ac)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrT9uv.jpg&hash=4528610827870f9f4c6f1bece1b21cc7161c6e5b)

This Exit 57 sign now looks a bit out of place (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fr7LbR.jpg&hash=956f366ccd1e5f0add2a94964707309b5f4ecbf9)

Work on the north side of the new interchange continues.  You can see a sliver of the old Sorenson Street overpass in the bottom-right (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKihz3.jpg&hash=076dccda7921eceef1c5fbcdd2d4ca9bc376c877)

Facing east, as construction continues.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFVCIL.jpg&hash=c415c4df5642ec2fe6b1e673d2f70a85ea0edbe2)

The old Sorenson Street interchange has now been closed off (facing east). 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx383i.jpg&hash=163c056009862feff6adbc8858882a611a1c5617)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F4v88N.jpg&hash=f345979f77888331927c337996e4931b9bbad0e1)

Motorists have been detoured to Mosby Road for access to the industrial area in the meanwhile, and access to Highways 15 and 36 is possible via the Hwy 15/Terent Road interchange.  As seen from this image of the intersection of Mosby Road SE and Terent Road SE (facing south), traffic's definitely picked up.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FnSYEn.jpg&hash=55c6ae8b9b9bfa727e06878caf802f363063585b)

Meanwhile, back at the interchange, there's progress on the construction of the overpass.  Highway 36 traffic has been shifted over some in order to allow for staging (facing south).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbhIbT.jpg&hash=23fd362133486d027b717046496c7ce647e0b459)

The intersection with Stinson Road SE (the road just to the south of Highway 36) has been . . . wait for it . . . realigned to the south (facing east), taking over part of the old alignment of Sorenson.  The western segment is closed for the present, and will be reconnected by the city once the main bulk of the interchange improvements are finished.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGaNbF.jpg&hash=f62f54d320c23eec1ecbce375f817ff22f367f98)

Old (top) and new (bottom) (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVjVVd.jpg&hash=ad355d39c15bd48be4c356e0024d9c5273c7ddaa)

And the new overpass and exit on the west side of the interchange are now open. (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQpE95.jpg&hash=a6199e3a001fa376574181a8c0b047df24674ff8)

The ramps on the east side are still being constructed, including the C/D setup for the westbound lanes on Highway 36.  The road to the left is Meander Drive NE (which forms a meandering loop--hence the name--off of Sorenson Street).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FasvGL.jpg&hash=ef9dba02a0010fc2b2a463b430c14d3984f2183e)

The entrance to 36 eastbound is being built (facing west).  You can see a little stub of the old southern segment of Sorenson Street (which now connects into Stinson Road).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F7V8h3.jpg&hash=3980955c81078ec7d45f0505043c969bdd24a37e)

And here is the mostly completed interchange (facing west), with the C/D lanes constructed for westbound 36.  The old northern segment of Sorenson now curves onto Meander just north of the freeway.  Contractors are continuing to work on minor punchlist items.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9nf3Z.jpg&hash=f3d43a1c072be6245c7bc9dd8148c9f924044e94)

Well, that does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  Next update, we'll go just a bit north and east, to take a brief look at the explosion of development brought on by the 39th Ave NE SPUI from Update 81.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: sim_link on August 17, 2012, 06:55:02 AM
Like I mentioned at ST - my car would need to be washed after going through that construction area. I really like the concrete textures on elevated portions. Although we don't have that around here, it looks cool nonetheless. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: kj3400 on August 17, 2012, 12:33:57 PM
I'm wondering if Chemeketa residents are used to seeing construction sites all over the place. :D
Also, CONCRETE. I'm looking forward to that NAM release.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: art128 on August 17, 2012, 02:03:59 PM
Cool work with the intersection Alex!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: noahclem on August 20, 2012, 03:20:03 AM
Construction on the realignment is proceeding nicely and the diverging diamond seems like a clever solution for the area's traffic  &apls The wide-radius, FA, and on-slope usage keeps things looking smooth and realistic and the entire project seems nicely thought out. I'd consider wide-radius curves on the western ramps to make it look just a bit smoother still.

Looking forward to more  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: apeguy on August 20, 2012, 03:27:12 PM
Nice pair of updates, the DDI is pretty good. Looking forward to more. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 92-8/17/2012-Hwy 36/Sorenson St Project, Part 2)
Post by: Swordmaster on August 27, 2012, 02:12:43 PM
Great interchange there, although I find the concrete walls to have a bit of a stark contrast to the terrain. Despite the coolness of your transportation works, I find I'm also enjoying the housing areas we get to see. You seem to have a nice mix of lots there.

Cool mapping, too!


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 93-8/30/2012-East Chemeketa Developments)
Post by: Tarkus on August 30, 2012, 03:58:39 PM
Hi everyone-

I experienced a boot sector failure on my laptop's hard drive about a week ago, but fortunately, I've been able to recover my important things--including the Chemeketa region.  I'm now running on a semi-new (larger) hard drive I scavenged out of my old HP laptop (itself a replacement for when the boot sector failed on that laptop's original drive), on which I've installed the preview of Windows 8 after a re-format.  Now that the technical issues are sorted out, it's once again update time.

But first, replies:

sim_link: Thanks for the kind words, and yes, I imagine the local car washes love all the added business they're getting thanks to ORDOT. :D  As the elevated concrete textures, I'm glad to hear that you like it, and as those viaducts aren't tied into P57 or anything else undergoing a massive IID realignment, I'm toying with releasing those textures.

Kenny (kj3400): As much construction as there is in Chemeketa, I'd imagine it probably freaks the residents out when there isn't any happening. :D  Thanks for the interest in the concrete viaduct textures, too--I might just have to sneak those out there. ;)

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the compliments on the interchange!  It was a fun one to build, and quite involved with all that realignment.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words on the project--those Fractional Angle Avenues have been really nice to have (thanks to Shadow Assassin's general awesomeness).  I tried to stick wide-radius curves on that one end of the interchange, but the terrain and spacing kind of got in the way, and as the interchange will be getting torn up again for the larger Highway 36 modernization project, I figured they'd do in a pinch.

Alex (apeguy): Thanks for the compliments on the updates--I'm glad you enjoyed them!  I was really glad to finally have a good excuse to sneak a DDI into a featured construction project, and the process of building that project has given me some ideas to improve and expand upon that functionality.

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the kind words on the interchange and for the constructive feedback on the walls.  I've kind of been partial to that texture for awhile, as it matches up with what's standard around these parts, but you've gotten my wheels turning about experimenting with a different style.  I'm also glad to hear you enjoyed the map and seeing the residential areas (which will feature quite prominently in this next update)--I spent quite some time trying to find the right mix of lots to fit in with my northwestern suburban aesthetic, and I think Chemeketa hit the balance right.  The main aspect of it is lots of mattb325 and SimGoober stuff.




This update, we'll be taking a look at some development projects happening in East Chemeketa, right in the vicinity of the Highway 15/39th Avenue SPUI featured in Update 83 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg408368#msg408368).  The high-tech boom in this area has also brought on a wave of commercial office and residential development, as well as some new infrastructure to handle all of it.

To go along with the new update, I've produced another edition of the full regional map: Full Regional Map (http://gmapuploader.com/view/Psr14fpS0d)

Here's a link to a smaller map of the exact area (click to expand):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVRUp9s.png&hash=9c3053d2046ef79b45417754e11b837b77fbc6d3) (http://i.imgur.com/VRUp9.png)

Both feature the full build-out of the area we'll be looking at with this update, including previously identified "Project 13"--the extension of Noah Street NE.

This first image is of the initial work on the 5-way "starpoint" roundabout being built, where Noah Street will intersect extensions of Bernard Way NE and Flenderson Road NE, as well as a new east-west collector route designed to serve the area, 35th Avenue NE (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3j7Aa.jpg&hash=4baf71ca7002638b6c8be64e2a4e1e66d6de06d2)

This is right near where 35th will intersect Halpert Road NE (facing north).  Halpert will be widened to 4 lanes through the new intersection.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvipdM.jpg&hash=efc89423aaca3a8ea53cfd8affdc717a9ee9ee47)

Here's the initial build of the intersection to provide construction access (facing north), before development goes in and 35th gets widened to include a center turn lane.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fuu36B.jpg&hash=7ab1a8133be0718385c3e236b104bdbf6e8db3eb)

Here's the intersection after 35th is widened and development has gone in.  As you can see, it's become a happening spot (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FhOD9y.jpg&hash=91bedf544c823f85c431bfb1f869518f0b480905)

This is at the intersection of 39th and Halpert, previously re-built in Update 83, after more development (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfPTmw.jpg&hash=e52d5268ddebf9587bbe7f0e18540b7822038171)

Here's a couple of the "starpoint" in action, with the residential development having gone in around it.  The planners behind these subdivisions wanted to create a distinctive and interesting street layout.

(facing east)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fo4Uqm.jpg&hash=cda82125da359bd235055e3d316b51cb231e5409)

(facing north)
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fxaykp.jpg&hash=feecb9ab2ffd21db293e40a4b693925deed5ab74)

This is at the intersection of 39th/Hudson and Flenderson, post-development (facing north). 
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FyOAff.jpg&hash=2bf2e98f9d0a74334f8812c6f70e178251bf743e)

The fractional angle road here (yet to be named) was built as a collector off of Hudson Road NE to access some residential spots to the north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQZTQA.jpg&hash=7d056f3ed1740c1989b9fe583660bb89e765232f)

It currently dead-ends here, but future plans entail extending it to Flatwood Road NE (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIO3yf.jpg&hash=57a8abe91bd533250f6b53de1dea2334a46b74ac)

Finally, as there's been questions regarding the little "tail" that extends off of the Highway 15/215 "Flugelhorn" interchange and extends to Halpert Road, I thought I'd show what's been happening up there.  There's been both some residential and high-tech development in the area (both facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fo3UW8.jpg&hash=2bc7993e882d07977a092c1c99f7c0a340c564d8)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FAkp5R.jpg&hash=ea6a42b811f82cfe3832391e0a139cc59b807b62)

That does it for this update.  The next two updates will be back in familiar stomping grounds, and then I may take some interesting detours after that . . .

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 93-8/30/2012-East Chemeketa Developments)
Post by: Swordmaster on August 31, 2012, 02:20:39 AM
That's some serious development on the 39th. But I hope the starpoint can hold - seems a little busy already.

However, given ORDOT's high standards, I'm surprised by the bad signage on the dead end: there's two vehicles that didn't seem to know.

Quote from: Tarkus on August 30, 2012, 03:58:39 PM
Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the kind words on the interchange and for the constructive feedback on the walls.  I've kind of been partial to that texture for awhile, as it matches up with what's standard around these parts, but you've gotten my wheels turning about experimenting with a different style.

I don't know if it's this particular texture. I've always found walls to be harder to integrate nicely in open terrain than one would think at first. Some small flora near the base sometimes does the trick. Once the development sets in, the problem subsides.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 93-8/30/2012-East Chemeketa Developments)
Post by: kj3400 on September 01, 2012, 11:52:14 AM
The 39th and Halpert intersection is looking snazzy. That 5 ways roundabout is pretty cool as well.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 93-8/30/2012-East Chemeketa Developments)
Post by: art128 on September 01, 2012, 11:59:29 AM
Excellent new development Alex. You did a good job with the area around the round about!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen-Scarlet Corridor, Phase 1)
Post by: Tarkus on September 03, 2012, 05:24:37 PM
Hi everyone-

Another construction project, another update.  We'll be getting back to some familiar territory for this update . . . but first, replies:

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the compliments on the development, and yes, the starpoint roundabout is getting some pretty heavy usage already--the Noah Street extension turned out to be very popular with traffic.  It's probably ended up close to 75% capacity, and there's more trucks using it than anticipated.  It may end up having to be reconfigured.  As far as the Dead End sign, that'd be up to the city there, and they're waiting for the Signage Piece Mod to re-enter development. :D

Kenny (kj3400): Thanks for the kind words on the intersections--I'm glad to hear they were snazzy! :thumbsup:  That's actually the third 5-way roundabout in the region, though with the way the traffic volumes are shaping up there, it might end up having to be reconfigured.

Arthur (art128): Thanks!  I'm glad you liked the development and the area around the roundabout.  That was a lot of fun to build. :)




Eriksen-Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1

Full regional map [link] (http://gmapuploader.com/view/Psr14fpS0d)

Project Area Map (dashed lines indicate realignments):
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F10TgZl.png&hash=a7cb89ded680787fceb1add38271b883ef76fdfc)

The Eriksen-Scarlet Corridor Project is Project #6, as identified in the current list of Chemeketa-area capital improvement projects.  Eriksen Drive NE was built to serve as a neighborhood collector route, providing access between Ashcroft Street NE and residential developments in the area, and was later extended eastward to Rankine Lane NE.  Further development has elevated the traffic volumes on Eriksen beyond its capacity, and it has increasingly been used by motorists as a cut-through from Ashcroft to 52nd Avenue NE, via Scarlet Street NE.  The situation is especially bad between Ashcroft and Tamarack, a 2-lane section with a 25mph speed limit.

This project has been designed to better accommodate current and future traffic patterns in the area.  Phase 1 of the project will widen Eriksen from Ashcroft through the S-Curve to 4 travel lanes, while Phase 2 will reconstruct the Eriksen/Scarlet intersection, and build a new, 4-lane alignment of Scarlet between Eriksen and 49th Way NE.

This is the current state of the intersection at Eriksen/59th Avenue NE and Ashcroft Street NE (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOsGTV.jpg&hash=c17b0406def5f14cdd97876031a61bdb8b69d84d)

Just a little farther west, along 59th Avenue NE (facing west).  The little stretch of 59th just west of the intersection with Ashcroft will need to be realigned to accommodate the widened Eriksen Drive.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZGvEW.jpg&hash=4745f997b5e3ed18a1a63b01bbac6a5aa9ca7c51)

Construction begins (facing west):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F04jaW.jpg&hash=f6a5def1f177a4a438b430026ac28ce91dacc9ce)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtMpBe.jpg&hash=de3c4a15efc68c5dc54c8bad279e2590a18939ea)

59th is temporarily closed off for realignment (facing west):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbHrvF.jpg&hash=aeab0db06a68e90c25d5418da2b3921fd39e3430)

Demolition along Eriksen.  The widening will only claim two houses (facing west):

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FXerwR.jpg&hash=9e456fc997c1fc4e3dae384702d4e658ba061b4a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FI2lmP.jpg&hash=6ca950ad3941a7c2e5d7a6a8e4e359bc4643a993)

Progress at the intersection with Ashcroft (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FI7TvP.jpg&hash=5af5dd3e767ee46fbaa0ef61156bc2084a846f6d)

The widening right near the intersection has been more or less completed (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoIpAu.jpg&hash=17bec838b92f7ff808e7502c9ba345d6e41c9624)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FYAN7B.jpg&hash=d8cba5868dd3123488f5f2f287b83d3c1efc0fd9)

At the east end of the S-Curve (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLRucG.jpg&hash=1c90a7632d57f1ecee00b2155a9e3c45499093bf)

This is at Tamarack Street NE (facing west).  The stretch along the S-Curve has been closed down to speed along the widening.  Motorists are advised to use 52nd or 71st in the interim.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVPLk1.jpg&hash=dfd43b83f0cbb175e158ae4c960b075de433d773)

The curve has been widened (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTzozU.jpg&hash=2ea3b9724584c79100dbce0c6f1950b83f81241b)

The improved intersection at Tamarack (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKposb.jpg&hash=86375367fb674c868b5bcc243b458bb1222fabb1)

That does it for Phase 1.  The next update will focus on Phase 2, the realignment of the eastern portion of the corridor.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: Haljackey on September 03, 2012, 07:07:45 PM
Two updates back to back! Awesome work Alex!

I'm not a huge street light buff but I really like the ones you're using. The roads and construction projects are amazing as well, as always. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: MandelSoft on September 04, 2012, 01:36:27 AM
Nice update Alex! I see that you're using my USA LRM streetlights (and some NAM features that I have yet to posess). I always like what you do with construction works and your organisation is really nice. Kudos to that ;)

Best,
Maarten
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: RickD on September 04, 2012, 02:08:24 AM
Great updates. I just wish we had such well planned road improvement projects in reality.  ::)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: art128 on September 04, 2012, 02:22:28 AM
Very nice Alex, very very nice!  Love the work you're doing with that avenue. I like the pathway along the road and between the houses. Also seems like they'll have to destroy the mayor statue.. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on September 04, 2012, 10:56:18 AM

Great updates Alex!! &apls In the last month I've a poor bandwidth :'( so I can't make comments, but now I can admire your works and lovin' it! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: kj3400 on September 04, 2012, 11:36:04 AM
Excellent as always. I spy some right hand turning lanes there :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: noahclem on September 04, 2012, 04:45:22 PM
Great updates  &apls &apls  These areas have a really nice, green suburban feel and your planners have definitely succeeded in creating a distinctive layout. All the grid-breaking diagonal and FA stuff adds a lot of character. The 5-way roundabout is also a nice touch--I've always thought those looked really good.

Also, Noah Street?! If I had any role inspiring the name than I'm certainly honored  ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: mike3775 on September 05, 2012, 06:14:18 AM
I love that 5 point roundabout.  How/where is it available(if it is)?

I wish real projects could be done as easily as yours have been 
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: j-dub on September 05, 2012, 10:14:41 AM
Mike, when using the Network Addon Mod, you make sure you have a clear area of land, about 5x5 tiles, so you can reserve 3x3 tiles to build, without the game automatically drawing roads on you. You then use the OneWay Road tool, and you draw a square, no more then the 3x3 tiles, at which point, the NAM should then convert the OWR square into a roundabout. From here, you shold be able to use the regular Road tool to make a 5 point setup, just like Alex's. It is vital that roundabout's are checked upon the Network Addon Mod's installation.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: mike3775 on September 05, 2012, 11:59:32 AM
Thanks j-dub.  I knew it auto made the smaller one, didn't know about the bigger one.  I learned something new. (of course I never have played with everything included with the nam yet even after all these years)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: als98 on September 07, 2012, 01:45:50 PM
Tarkus-

What program(s) did you use to create that map and how does it work? It would be really cool to do that if I knew how...

Cool city, BTW.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 94-9/3/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 1)
Post by: als98 on September 07, 2012, 06:12:04 PM
Never mind... I found it on page 14 of this forum: http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.260 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.260) (Unless your methods have changed...)

Thanks for that tutorial.  :thumbsup:  Those maps are really cool and I'll make one of my city soon.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Tarkus on October 21, 2012, 05:43:02 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back to share the completion of the eastern portion of the Eriksen-Scarlet Corridor Project in Chemeketa.  But first, replies:

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the kind words, and I've really been pleased with the new streetlights, too.  The LRM is where it's at. :thumbsup:  Glad you enjoyed the construction--there will be plenty more of that to come. :)

Maarten (MandelSoft): Thanks!  I'm really glad you enjoyed the update, and my (figurative) hat is off to you on the LRM--it's a fantastic package, and I've really enjoyed using it! :thumbsup:

Raphael (RickD): Thanks for the compliments on the update, and I share your sentiments--especially looking at things like this debacle (http://www.oregon.gov/ODOT/HWY/REGION2/Pages/US20-PME-UPRR-to-Eddyville.aspx) in these parts.

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the very kind words on the update--I'm glad you liked how the Avenue and pathway turned out.  The statue seems to have avoided its seemingly inevitable demise, however. ::)

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed it, and no worries--I'm sorry to hear of your bandwidth issues--non-functioning internet can be painful. &hlp  Hope things are working better now.

Kenny (kj3400): Thank you, sir!  And yes, there are (or more accurately, were) right turn lanes there.  I'm looking forward to a veritable TuLEP festival after slogging through NAM 31/P57. :D

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the compliments on the update--I'm especially glad to hear you enjoyed the "grid-busting" and that the suburban feel came off.  And yes, you are indeed "on the map". :thumbsup:

Mike (mike3775): Thanks for the kind words on the efficacy of my construction projects--of course, it's a fair bit easier to pull this stuff off in a virtual world.  :)  6-point setups are also possible with the 3x3 OWR roundabouts, using a similar technique, and it's even possible to do 8-point setups with the Avenue roundabouts.

j-dub: Thanks for the detailed post on the roundabouts!

als98: Thanks for the kind words on the city, and I'm glad you found the tutorial.  I still use those techniques today, and I hope it proved useful for you! :thumbsup:




Eriksen-Scarlet Corridor Project, Phase 2

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F10TgZl.png&hash=a7cb89ded680787fceb1add38271b883ef76fdfc)

When we left off last time, the section of Eriksen Drive NE between Ashcroft Street NE and the S-curve had been widened to 4 travel lanes.  This is the east end of that phase, right before the intersection with Scarlet Street NE (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FsKeZc.jpg&hash=7ef38b13615c154e5dcf80d20152dadeccca3dff)

A section of the new alignment has been built, but not connected.  The western portion of Eriksen (widened in Phase 1) will be curved to align with the southern segment of Scarlet.  The eastern segment of Eriksen will T into these two segments (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fuwjt2.jpg&hash=ef9d88f487b592947222156a0c8b56ca25b8e78b)

The roadway has been closed off for further construction.  The northern segment of Scarlet, which is a minor residential collector, is now accessed from a T-intersection off the eastern segment of Eriksen (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FN41zH.jpg&hash=88e7a6d877c625f03f85b97ef528bebac85bfaa9)

The eastern segment of Eriksen is now connected into the realignment (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fcp8ly.jpg&hash=fa547e54a95e0315d1eb35a87f5e3c03170d5d6d)

This new segment is now open, and lighting and landscaping have been addressed (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FELo2L.jpg&hash=eab111bc9937e8078b4e4893abb78f8bf13b6d68)

A little detour along the northern segment of Scarlet--another "starpoint" roundabout (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FO7sge.jpg&hash=4cb1f5f4fb31f47ce80b66381499d6e086b3605e)

Here's along the southern segment of Scarlet, in its old alignment, as it intersects 52nd Avenue NE.  As you can see, it's pretty jammed with just 2 travel lanes.  The roadway will be moved 100 feet west (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEIC4H.jpg&hash=08599555b65fdd3293acb879667bd7e4ad872201)

Here's where the widened roadway currently dumps onto the old southern segment of Scarlet (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FNJNKT.jpg&hash=e91c3fb302d1b02af0b5e44a34ffb3f7e2ab25b9)

Back at the 52nd/Scarlet intersection.  The median area on 52nd has been paved further to accommodate the new intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FK1nqu.png&hash=02a654896cb27133a2f9ab171c383bb9ff4ba118)

Further work at the intersection.  Left turns have been restricted off 52nd in the interim (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FFfbfU.jpg&hash=08630a5e0cc4129dc2fab4f96f10e34194a4e75c)

The realigned segment has been built from Eriksen down to 52nd (facing north).  The segment south of 52nd still needs to be realigned.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwpZUU.jpg&hash=2af78e10822bfcc183dcfb50bd98fca89952f49a)

The segment south of 52nd has been closed off (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F7Bxfc.jpg&hash=c38dcf4324798f2a4c23a6d3644ae03e7ba9d0a5)

The segment south of 52nd has now been re-built.  This is the rebuilt intersection at 49th Way NE.  You can see the old alignment of Scarlet on the left (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FxpDNs.jpg&hash=3ec3c363f3c68674d6d5c984578771935e409dbd)

The rebuilt intersection of 52nd/Scarlet is now full open (facing north).  Some remnants of construction staging remain.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FdYoUL.jpg&hash=65c5e975d691f757655c0062a5ca0552aac2c4bf)

And here's the finished product, with some new commercial development in the area (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FJS8yb.jpg&hash=99e7ee2d702f96c9574c994b1b35a4e630102a8e)

Here's a map showing how the area is set up now.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F7tFJe.png&hash=111a4ae44b439f99ad5a0d00d05d594af5c6d647)

That does it for this project here in Tarkusian Cities--we'll have a bit of a change of pace next update, though I can't yet reveal what that'll entail.  Only 4 more updates until Update 100 arrives!

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: mike3775 on October 21, 2012, 06:27:41 PM
I love how you have so much wide open area to be able to shift roads over with ease without having to make some poor sims mad by stealing their land for these projects under the guise of eminent domain  :)

I really love those 5 point roundy's, they blend in perfectly with the surroundings
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: j-dub on October 21, 2012, 08:02:46 PM
Ughh, every time I look back to SC4 used in this fashion, with well-known, realtime commercial outlets, I am reminded why it's going to be difficult to start up the next one, and turn a profit on that, not to mention EA's regulations now.

AND!  this latest reroute in this MD, especially with the use of Farr, reminds me way too much of what I am dealing with outside in reality for some time, the project had been left unfinished when I was in high-school, and it finally is confirmed again for next year. Some people will not be happy though, because despite the recession, as I post this, they were building these giant houses right behind where the controversial road was to be constructed. This was planned long ago, but the government got involved, so it will happen whether neither town likes it or not.

Alex, I look at your work here, and can't help but compare it to real DOT websites with how they record their progress with photo capture every step of the way. WOW! documented road construction project photos are hard to find! This one though, http://www.civiltechinc.com/srphotos/ was the closest thing I could come up with finding documented in comparison to the style of shots taken in this SC4 MD, which I found too similar. As an added bonus, that real-life project, there were a lot of train lines that had to be crossed, this time includeing both heavy rail, and an old wired tram line.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: RickD on October 22, 2012, 04:18:11 AM
Nice work. I love the RD-3 - Ave-4 transition. Maybe you have shown it before but it caught my eye now.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Swordmaster on October 22, 2012, 05:32:49 AM
Very good! I wish I could do some big roading right now. . .

Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: noahclem on October 22, 2012, 06:51:10 AM
Nice to see you continue on with this effortless- and realistic-looking grid-busting. That new intersection layout with the widened road is just perfectly executed. The seasonal flora fits in very nicely there too. I'm very curious to see what surprises may be in store for the near future!

And it's great to be on the map  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: kj3400 on October 22, 2012, 11:02:34 AM
I'm not usually a fan of non grid and I haven't used FAR/FARR extensively yet, but you execute it flawlessly. Excellent construction.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Haljackey on October 22, 2012, 03:48:25 PM
Oh, very nice transition and expansion Alex!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: bakerton on October 26, 2012, 05:10:44 PM
Alex, what a awesome update sofar. Keep on giving me ideas on some of my transit corridors.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: sunv123 on October 28, 2012, 06:23:29 AM
Your Sims must be so lucky to have you as the mayor

Also, love the roundabouts
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Durfsurn on October 29, 2012, 02:28:14 AM
As usual a nice grid busting, mind bogglingly good, well planned and seamlessly written update Alex! You Sir are the Grand Poobah of Transit MDing!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: sim_link on November 01, 2012, 02:22:41 PM
Great expansion as per usual.  ;D I really like the new alignment - very realistic and well executed.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: rooker1 on November 16, 2012, 10:18:37 AM
Here is our third of our 4in1 OSITM!! 
Help me congratulate Alex (Tarkus) and his fabulous MD and the fact that this will be his third time in OISTM!!  It's always fun to see how Alex transforms his city and networks as the city grows.  I'm sure this week will be full great updates as usual.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi901.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fac213%2FBSCLEX%2FTarkus11-12.jpg&hash=020b8794842f17c77116c0b4c0d4d7d663e81434)

Congrats from The SC4D Staff!! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: art128 on November 16, 2012, 10:23:06 AM
Congratulations, Alex! Not a surprise your MD was choose for his third OSITM as the quality in each update is top notch!  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Swordmaster on November 16, 2012, 10:23:46 AM
Wow, great. Congrats, Alex. Curious to see what you've got in store. . .

Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: noahclem on November 16, 2012, 10:24:53 AM
Congratulations Alex! I'm very much looking forward to this week  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: threestooges on November 16, 2012, 10:47:02 AM
Those "starpoints" remind me of a couple of the roundabouts in Santa Barbara (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=santa+barbara&hl=en&ll=34.429021,-119.676964&spn=0.001201,0.002411&sll=33.738054,-117.887414&sspn=0.155027,0.308647&t=k&hnear=Santa+Barbara,+California&z=19), which are some of the more interesting ones I've negotiated. They handle the traffic well enough, but then they're tucked back in residential areas where there isn't too much traffic going through. Not sure how they'd hold up on heavier use streets. The occasional 5-way intersection (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=santa+barbara&hl=en&ll=34.434133,-119.708458&spn=0.00121,0.002411&sll=33.738054,-117.887414&sspn=0.155027,0.308647&t=h&hnear=Santa+Barbara,+California&z=19) also makes things fun. Always fun to see the various transit features you implement Alex.
-Matt
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Durfsurn on November 16, 2012, 03:34:08 PM
Congrats Alex! Well deserved!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 95-10/21/2012-Eriksen/Scarlet Corridor, Phase 2)
Post by: Wthrwyz on November 16, 2012, 06:01:45 PM
Congrats Alex! How you manage to include such detail in your own projects and still crank out the development work on the NAM is a continuing source of amazement. For me, such level of activity would require vast amounts of caffeine...but you seem to run on magic. &nj

P.S. If your secret actually is caffeine, then would you mind filling me in on who your supplier is? I think I should buy some stock in them because your demand must be endless.  :P
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012--OSITM-3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: Tarkus on November 16, 2012, 10:41:01 PM
Hi everyone-

First off, a huge thanks to the OSITM committee for selecting Tarkusian Cities as part of the "4-in-1" special for the SC4D 6th anniversary month, and to all who have followed and supported this MD over the years, without whom I wouldn't be here.  The timing of this OSITM is quite fortuitous--today, of course, marks the 7th anniversary of the first release of the RHW, a mod which has been an integral part of Tarkusian Cities from the beginning, and one that I've had the pleasure of working on for 6 of those 7 years.  This first OSITM update also turns out to be the 96th full update of this MD, so we are quickly approaching the 100-update mark. 

During Tarkusian Cities' one-week residency here in OSITM, I will be showcasing a number of different things.  You'll get to see some familiar things continue to progress, namely, construction projects happening in Chemeketa, dealing primarily with improvements to infrastructure downtown.  You will also get to see some things from Tarkusian Cities' history (and pre-history) resurface, as we celebrate 7 years of the RHW, and head toward Update 100.  And there will be some new things.  Sometimes, these new things will be juxtaposed with the past--such as is the case with this update.

For those who may remember that far back, before Tarkusian Cities, I had a short-lived MD called "Argentum".  Argentum (which eventually got appropriated into the stream of Tarkusian Cities).  While that particular region was a bit rough around the ages (particularly in its early days), as I worked with it for so long, and it was the first region I built with the NAM in mind, I've always had particularly fond memories of it.  Coincidentally, the first ever RHW I built was in Argentum--a roadway initially known as Highway 65 (it was actually a predecessor of one incarnation of "Highway 61" that ran through there).

This was part of one of the most complicated setups I built with the RHW in old Argentum.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU96%2Fargentum-hwy61-204-interchange.jpg&hash=c0f18c5100eac74f38ed8a685ad57f2fb82bdbef)

That image really shows the limitations of the very first RHW release.  First off--no slope mod (yikes!).  You'll also notice I had to convert the RHWs into Avenues to cross them.  The RHW, at that point, only allowed Roads to go over them.  There was no Avenue-over-RHW piece, let alone an RHW-over-RHW capability, and my initial reasons for getting into RHW development were actually because of this very interchange.  I had to use some very sketchy One-Way Road setups to make the ramps--back in 2006, was pretty much the only way to build custom interchanges--in fact, it was considered "the future" by many transportation luminaries of that era. The MIS wasn't on anyone's minds.  And looking at today's developments, it's hard to believe this could have passed for a "good interchange" at any prior point in history.

This was another interchange of that era . . . farther south along old Highway 65.  It got demolished for good early on in Tarkusian Cities history, in one of the zillions of road re-alignments and "realism adjustments" I made to that old Argentum region over the years.  That approach I took in documenting these adjustments really set the tone for the rest of Tarkusian Cities.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU96%2Fangstrom-hwy61-gaffner-cubit.jpg&hash=597890aff8e5a1fe3bdaba3991867ca3c5d29fb9)

The old Argentum region, over the years, became unstable to play, even as I improved it.  As I was still relatively new to custom content when I began building it, there were some not-up-to-par plugins in there which, over time, corrupted it.

However, awhile back, I revisited the original terrain map for it in SC4 Terraformer.  It was originally an auto-generated Landscape Designer map (anyone remember that tool?) that I tweaked fiendishly over the years in-game, and my last revisions to it cleaned it up.  And I began building a completely new Argentum on it.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU96%2Fu96-1.jpg&hash=5a80f461124e0ecf8c6f5678feef53cdb296d0e5)

Argentum 2.0 Downtown (facing east)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU96%2Fu96-2.jpg&hash=8d1dea4c84dca3d190ebb4d57ab894b97f9de747)

I'll be back to Argentum 2.0 for certain in future updates.

And now to conclude, some replies:

Mike (mike3775): Thanks!  I usually make sure to reserve a good bit of open space early on when building up my regions and cities--it almost always comes in handy.  Glad you liked the 5-point roundabouts, too!

j-dub: Thanks for the kind words--I take it as a huge compliment to have Tarkusian Cities compared to DOT websites.  They've been a huge inspiration over the years.  And I hear you on the long-delayed road projects and NIMBY issues. 

Raphael (RickD): Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you enjoyed seeing that transition there!  It was a late addition to NWM 2.0, textured by michi_cc and implemented by myself and Ganaram.  It seemed a perfect way to lead in from the widened Eriksen Way to the TuLEPs at that intersection.

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks! And I'm definitely looking forward to being able to do some more big roading . . . got to take care of some P57-Mk2 stuff before I can really sink my teeth into it.

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the compliments on it, and I'm glad it looked effortless!  That was actually the first time I had really used a few of those pieces in there, especially in that particular combination, and I was quite pleased with how it turned out.  It was also the first time I had used those seasonal trees, about which I'm absolutely floored.  And you're most welcome about getting "on the map"--more loyal readers will be as well before long. :)

Kenny (kj3400): Yes, it can be a little trick to work it in just right and make it look natural, particularly in more built-up areas--it was a fun challenge, and thanks for the compliments on the end result!

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks for the kind words!  I'm really glad you enjoyed the update, and I hope you also enjoyed this little bit of "archive-digging" from this update.

Jon (bakerton): Thanks for the compliments on the update--I'm always thrilled to be a source of inspiration, and I hope to see what you cook up transportation-wise!

sunv123: Thanks!  I certainly hope my sims agree--they tend to be pretty good sports about all the dust I kick up across town. :D  Glad you enjoyed the roundabouts, too.

Durfsurn: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed the grid-busting action!

sim_link: Thanks for the kind words on the new alignment--it went together a lot easier than I was expecting!

Robin (rooker1): Thanks to you and all the rest of the OSITM Committee for selecting Tarkusian Cities to take part in this special month--I should have some interesting things to show, and I hope it proves to be a successful week!

Arthur (art128): Thanks for the kind words--I'm thrilled to be here. :thumbsup:

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the congrats, and I hope you found the "opening salvo" of this OSITM to your liking!

Noah (noahclem): Thanks, and I am looking forward to it, too--gives me a good reason to go full-blast here. :thumbsup:

Matt (threestooges): Thanks for sharing that link--it does indeed look like a spitting image of the Chemeketa starpoints.  And I concur with you about higher-volume situations on them--I'm not sure I'd want to find out. :D  That one I built at 32nd/Noah/Bernard/Flenderson is probably getting to be a bit hairy about now, so it may end up being an update again. 

Durfsurn: Thanks, and I hope you enjoyed the new update!

Nathan (Wthrwyz): Thanks for the kind words!  And yes, I am generally pretty heavily caffeinated, especially today. :D  We Northwesterners are obsessed with our coffee.  While back home, there's a little local place I usually visit, but otherwise, I usually look for Starbucks or Dutch Bros (Oregon-based drive-thru chain that's expanded throughout the western US).  White chocolate mochas are my "secret weapon". $%#Ninj2

See you all next update . . . we'll be jumping about quite a bit during this OSITM spurt.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: noahclem on November 17, 2012, 12:14:37 AM
What a fascinating look back into the history of RHW and Tarkusian Cities! With all the capabilities added since RHW's early days our roads and cities have become completely different creatures. Having begun using the NAM in the days immediately after the release of 3.0, itself a great leap forward, I recall the days before that when OWRs were the dominant element of creative transit networking. Your use of them here is creative and functional, reminding of how difficult but rewarding it used to be to break out of the constraints of prefabricated everything in the old days. They are all the more interesting considering they represent a significant reason RHW has grown into what it has become today.

The picture of Argentum's center is decidedly more modern. It comes across as a very pleasant city with a nice selection of roads and buildings and I'm quite curious to see how the area and its surroundings will develop. A promising start! I think filling some of the dead space out with more of those Girafe trees would add to the area's aesthetics but be careful--MMPs can be addicting  ;D

Congratulations again on your OSITM and the impending update no. 100  &dance
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: Gugu3 on November 17, 2012, 01:35:14 AM
Nice reconstruction Alex!looking much better now ;Dthanks NAM :thumbsup:
Gugu3
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: ivo_su on November 17, 2012, 02:34:18 AM
I can not wait to see your next updates. It is always interesting to look back in the past and compare things with this and how they have changed and evolved. Today these old RHW seem mildly ridiculous and so ugly, but experience and time with them is that NAM has led to further develop these highways are emblematic of Sim Sity today. I can not wait to peek into the kitchen of the NAM, thanks Alex for your MD and get in touch with the great things that will be a fact soon.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: Wiimeiser on November 17, 2012, 04:03:38 AM
What plugins would you say corrupted it? So we know what to avoid.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012--OSITM-3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: Swordmaster on November 17, 2012, 09:36:06 AM
Whoa, Argentum. . . that's a long time ago. And that interchange indeed looks funny now. But I also seem to remember working with the OWR to solve things and such. And Landscape Designer :D  Looks like I still have that installed! Good old days. . .

Quote from: Tarkusgives me a good reason to go full-blast here.

Oh my. Where's the seatbelt?


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: sunv123 on November 17, 2012, 09:50:38 AM
Yay, an old city of yours! I just love seeing them for some reason. :)

Can't wait to see what Argentum looks nowadays.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: Durfsurn on November 17, 2012, 06:47:46 PM
Argentum- Reloaded! Looking, dare I say modern
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: samerton on November 18, 2012, 07:24:53 AM
Congratulations on the OSITM, those pictures are a great insight to the times before the RHW as we know it today came about.

Great job, I love the picture of Argentum 2.0 :)

-Sam
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U96-11/16/2012-OSITM 3.1-Tarkusian Cities: Old and New)
Post by: EDGE4194 on November 18, 2012, 10:47:16 AM
Congrats Alex on the OSITM. I do remember Argentum (didn't you name a street after me for some reason or another?). I've enjoyed the last few updates, and even though i don't check in very often I still keep up with what you're doing.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: Tarkus on November 19, 2012, 12:59:02 AM
Hi everyone-

Thanks for the warm welcome to OSITM--I have a brief update here, in which I'll show you some things I rarely show here in Tarkusian Cities.

But first, replies:

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words--I'm really glad you enjoyed seeing the peek back at old Argentum and its original RHW setup!  As primitive as that was, I remember I had a good bit of fun building it, and thinking to myself, "what if" on the feature side.  I'm glad you liked the new Argentum as well--it's a map with a lot of really interesting challenges to it, which aren't super apparent until you load up a city tile, though I felt that particular style of development fit like a glove there.  I think I have a lot better sense of how to handle that region now, compared to when I started building the original, some 6 years ago.  And I've since snazzed up that waterfront--I'll be showing it in either Update 98 or 99.

Gugu3: Thanks for the compliments on the update, and I'm glad to hear the new Argentum is an improvement on the old! :thumbsup:

Ivo (ivo_su): Thanks for the kind words on the update and on the RHW development side--it's really quite shocking now, looking back at those old ad-hoc interchanges.

Wiimeiser: I can't remember what all I had in there in the early days of the region, but I do know I had pretty much all the old Bobbo662 Lots that were removed from the STEX due to immortal lot syndrome, and a few other issues.  There were more than likely other lots of that same vintage (2005-2006) off the STEX that suffered from the same issue.  I completely started over with my Plugins prior to starting Chemeketa (after an HD crash), so I haven't seen anything of that sort since.  Thanks for asking a great question!

Willy (Swordmaster): Yeah, it really is a blast from the past, on all fronts. :D  It's really crazy how much things have changed in the past 6 years in this community, and it's been good playing that map again, as I'm finding I can take better advantage of it now.  Maybe I'll have to release the map one of these days . . . ;)  Thanks for reminiscing about old interchange workarounds and long-forgotten tools with me!

sunv123: Thanks--glad to see you enjoyed the "retro" installment.  The new Argentum is a lot different in many ways, beyond the obvious fact that the slopes aren't ridiculous.  :D  Argentum might not be the only region making a comeback, either. ;)

Durfsurn: Hehe, thanks, though I actually haven't unleashed too much on the transit mod side yet there.  There's not really a functioning RHW in sight there yet (well, at least in the downtown tile), as I started it while the RHW was transitioning between the different specs. 

Sam (samerton): Thanks, it's good to be here, and I'm glad you enjoyed seeing old and new Argentum!

Eric (EDGE4194): Hey, it's great to see you! :thumbsup:  I still remember that road--back in Update 17, when you made post #200.  Glad you've been enjoying the updates, and hope you enjoy this one, too!




There's been one big thing here that I haven't shown with respect to Chemeketa--a full region view.  So, without further adieu, here it is--you can click it and get the giant version:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU97%2Fchemeketa_thumb_11162012.jpg&hash=e9775edfd13c36784af91cd13ea07ab5c816edc2) (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/Tarkus/U97/chemeketa_11162012.jpg)

Also, if you're curious to see my transport layout overlaid onto the terrain, here's a full blast version of that (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/Tarkus/U97/chemeketa_transport_11162012.jpg).  You can actually see Update 98's end product on there, so it serves as a bit of a teaser, too.

And another thing I haven't shown, which I may start doing more often given the transportation focus of this MD, is Congestion and Volume DataViews.  This is actually in the central city tile, which has a game population of 332,308 (the largest I've ever built, actually), and for the record, I'm running the NAM Medium Simulator, and the only mass transit is a barely-used stretch of commuter rail.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU97%2Fchemeketa-congestionview.jpg&hash=5ac88617f036c0db0fbd27d3ee15b364a4d9b1ab)

Given the large population and the general lack of mass transit, it's holding up surprisingly well.  Two of the extended yellow/red spots are along Wallace Road on the west side of the map, one at the top, and one just south of the bridge.  Update 98 will largely take care of that top one, and mitigate the red spot there at the start of the Chemeketa Parkway.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: Swordmaster on November 19, 2012, 02:47:53 AM
Those are some realistic region views, Alex! Especially the streets look perfect. :thumbsup:

With all this looking in the rear-view mirror, I've been flicking through some of the first updates here, and your first MD, and to see the differences it all gets more stunning by the minute. I also realized I miss the desert terrain here, though.

QuoteArgentum might not be the only region making a comeback, either.
I'm curious to see if we get back to Lenox, which was always my favorite terrain here.

Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: RickD on November 19, 2012, 04:01:15 AM
Great to see the region view.  :thumbsup:

I also enjoyed the "historic" images from the previous update. I can still remember my first time using the RHW (wasn't it called ANT initially?). It was so limited with almost no intersection. But I absolutely wanted to have it in my region. I saw a lot of potential in it back then, but I would never have imagined it to become so absolutely great as it is nowadays.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: MandelSoft on November 19, 2012, 04:20:29 AM
Often lurking around this MD but I'm still really impressed of your work. I liked the first OSITM update and I'm curious what you have in store. Keep it up!

Maarten
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: mike3775 on November 19, 2012, 04:44:51 AM
I like that region.  I also love how you laid down the transportation to fit the terrain
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: jmyers2043 on November 19, 2012, 05:09:13 AM
I like the 'full blast version'. The region looks like a good way to spend an evening.

- Jim



Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: kj3400 on November 19, 2012, 12:25:05 PM
 So this is what Chemeketa looks like. It's very neat. I was expecting more freeways for some reason though.  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: noahclem on November 19, 2012, 01:27:26 PM
Great work with the maps and overviews Alex! Very interesting to see how your work fits into familiar simcity map as opposed to your normal, excellent maps. Looking forward to the next bit of news from Argentum and Chemeketa  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: sunv123 on November 19, 2012, 02:25:23 PM
It's really nice to see a region view of Chemeketa and i'm surprised that you have traffic problems here! ::)

It would be nice to see some new unreleased RHW puzzle pieces in this MD. ;)

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: figui on November 19, 2012, 07:04:57 PM
firstly: congrats for your third OSITM   :thumbsup:

i love how realistic your region looks. and thanks for showing us the congestion view, would be interesting to follow the impact of your projects.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: Durfsurn on November 19, 2012, 09:30:26 PM
I would also likes view of the volume traffic option for the data view traffic for the central tile city! That would be cool
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: Gugu3 on November 21, 2012, 02:08:48 AM
Excellent region Alex! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: bakerton on November 21, 2012, 06:04:16 PM
Alex, my jaw just dropped when I looked at the region view. Just awe inspiring and awesome looking. JKB
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: Aaron Graham on November 21, 2012, 08:54:51 PM
Lovely region, looks realistic with the farms in the outer areas of the towns. :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: kbieniu7 on November 22, 2012, 12:21:54 AM
Truly American view (for my European eye ;) )!  &apls I love this small bending river flowing to the east.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: benedict on November 22, 2012, 07:27:26 PM
Great to see your MD selected for the 4-in-1 OSITM. Region looks very nice, and it's been very interesting seeing the older pictures.

Edit: Congratulations, Tarkusian Cities was number one on Ben's Top Ten for the week ending 22 November!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on December 25, 2012, 03:33:58 AM

Merry Christmas
and
Happy New Year!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: sebes on January 20, 2013, 03:30:59 AM
Was lurking a bit on the site today and ofcourse HAD to see your MD. Good to see it's still going on, awesome pictures!   I realize i missed a lot of updates and its too much to read all...   Did I get right that Old Argentum and the Drunk Engineer Section are gone?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U97-11/19/2012-OSITM 3.2-Chemeketa: Region Views)
Post by: SimCity V6 on April 20, 2013, 03:00:34 PM
Quote from: Tarkus on November 19, 2012, 12:59:02 AM
Hi everyone-

Thanks for the warm welcome to OSITM--I have a brief update here, in which I'll show you some things I rarely show here in Tarkusian Cities.

But first, replies:

Noah (noahclem): Thanks for the kind words--I'm really glad you enjoyed seeing the peek back at old Argentum and its original RHW setup!  As primitive as that was, I remember I had a good bit of fun building it, and thinking to myself, "what if" on the feature side.  I'm glad you liked the new Argentum as well--it's a map with a lot of really interesting challenges to it, which aren't super apparent until you load up a city tile, though I felt that particular style of development fit like a glove there.  I think I have a lot better sense of how to handle that region now, compared to when I started building the original, some 6 years ago.  And I've since snazzed up that waterfront--I'll be showing it in either Update 98 or 99.

Gugu3: Thanks for the compliments on the update, and I'm glad to hear the new Argentum is an improvement on the old! :thumbsup:

Ivo (ivo_su): Thanks for the kind words on the update and on the RHW development side--it's really quite shocking now, looking back at those old ad-hoc interchanges.

Wiimeiser: I can't remember what all I had in there in the early days of the region, but I do know I had pretty much all the old Bobbo662 Lots that were removed from the STEX due to immortal lot syndrome, and a few other issues.  There were more than likely other lots of that same vintage (2005-2006) off the STEX that suffered from the same issue.  I completely started over with my Plugins prior to starting Chemeketa (after an HD crash), so I haven't seen anything of that sort since.  Thanks for asking a great question!

Willy (Swordmaster): Yeah, it really is a blast from the past, on all fronts. :D  It's really crazy how much things have changed in the past 6 years in this community, and it's been good playing that map again, as I'm finding I can take better advantage of it now.  Maybe I'll have to release the map one of these days . . . ;)  Thanks for reminiscing about old interchange workarounds and long-forgotten tools with me!

sunv123: Thanks--glad to see you enjoyed the "retro" installment.  The new Argentum is a lot different in many ways, beyond the obvious fact that the slopes aren't ridiculous.  :D  Argentum might not be the only region making a comeback, either. ;)

Durfsurn: Hehe, thanks, though I actually haven't unleashed too much on the transit mod side yet there.  There's not really a functioning RHW in sight there yet (well, at least in the downtown tile), as I started it while the RHW was transitioning between the different specs. 

Sam (samerton): Thanks, it's good to be here, and I'm glad you enjoyed seeing old and new Argentum!

Eric (EDGE4194): Hey, it's great to see you! :thumbsup:  I still remember that road--back in Update 17, when you made post #200.  Glad you've been enjoying the updates, and hope you enjoy this one, too!




There's been one big thing here that I haven't shown with respect to Chemeketa--a full region view.  So, without further adieu, here it is--you can click it and get the giant version:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU97%2Fchemeketa_thumb_11162012.jpg&hash=e9775edfd13c36784af91cd13ea07ab5c816edc2) (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/Tarkus/U97/chemeketa_11162012.jpg)

Also, if you're curious to see my transport layout overlaid onto the terrain, here's a full blast version of that (http://www.majhost.com/gallery/Tarkus/U97/chemeketa_transport_11162012.jpg).  You can actually see Update 98's end product on there, so it serves as a bit of a teaser, too.

And another thing I haven't shown, which I may start doing more often given the transportation focus of this MD, is Congestion and Volume DataViews.  This is actually in the central city tile, which has a game population of 332,308 (the largest I've ever built, actually), and for the record, I'm running the NAM Medium Simulator, and the only mass transit is a barely-used stretch of commuter rail.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.majhost.com%2Fgallery%2FTarkus%2FU97%2Fchemeketa-congestionview.jpg&hash=5ac88617f036c0db0fbd27d3ee15b364a4d9b1ab)

Given the large population and the general lack of mass transit, it's holding up surprisingly well.  Two of the extended yellow/red spots are along Wallace Road on the west side of the map, one at the top, and one just south of the bridge.  Update 98 will largely take care of that top one, and mitigate the red spot there at the start of the Chemeketa Parkway.

-Alex

Oh my bosh, where did this thread go???  :P
Title: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Tarkus on May 10, 2013, 11:25:08 PM
Hi everyone-

Well, it's been a rather busy 6 months since Tarkusian Cities last saw some action.  RL's been good, but hectic (finishing my dissertation and finally seeing light at the end of the Ph.D. tunnel, plus teaching this spring), and my SC4 time has, for much of the past several months, been consumed with NAM 31 and its "point-x" releases.  My updating here will continue to be sporadic, going into the future, but in the meanwhile, as I have a little bit of content prepped, I figured I'd drop Update 98 on you all.

First, some replies, at long last:

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the kind words on the region view, and the retrospective.  I also miss the desert terrain as well, and hope to bring it back in some fashion in a future update.  As far as Lenox goes, the region is, unfortunately, a bit worse for wear after my first hard drive issue and plugin rebuild a few years ago, so aside from the "lost" update I was preparing when that crash occurred (which I have recovered), it's unlikely it'll be making a comeback.

Raphael (RickD): Thanks--glad you enjoyed seeing the whole region at long last!  The ANT was actually the pre-RHW reintegration of the "Dirt Road" network, which was included in the NAM installer as a plugin, way back when.  The average user didn't really know what it was, though there were a number of different things people in the transit modding community wanted to do with this "new" network.  The NAM "default" for the ANT was as a "Super Road"--a concept which eventually morphed into the RHW-2 once the RHW had been established.  I still remember building my first stretch in Argentum, and thinking, "this really has potential".

Maarten (MandelSoft): Thanks, Maarten--and coming from a fellow highway geek, I take that as a great compliment!  :thumbsup: Hope you enjoy this brief return to activity.

mike3775: Thanks for the kind words on the region!  After dealing with more hilly regions like Argentum and Los Endos, the relatively flat (well, at least east of the river) valley terrain of Chemeketa was a nice respite.

Jim (Jmyers2043): Indeed, it's a great way to spend an evening (I could say the same about some of the region shots of yours I've seen)--thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you enjoyed seeing it "full blast"!

Kenny (kj3400): Yes, that is indeed the full Chemeketa--and I can't blame you for expecting more freeways.  I suspect a lot of people had a similar impression, seen as how I've been on the frontlines of the RHW for so long, but I'm generally able to accommodate all that traffic just by building and maintaining a solid network of surface arterials and collectors, and being careful where I develop.  There's usually more NWM content than RHW content in my regions.  Thanks for the compliments on the update, and the interesting insight on the region.

Noah (noahclem):  Thanks!  I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the "satellite view" (to borrow from Google) of the region.  And I hope you enjoy the return to Chemeketa for more construction. :)

sunv123: Thanks for the compliments on the region view, and there's almost always at least a little something with respect to traffic problems in my cities--that's why I do the construction projects.  They're not just for eyecandy purposes.  Rather, they are basically a creative elaboration on my normal process of playing the game as intended (more or less), and constantly trying to milk the efficiency out of my regional transport networks.  As far as seeing unreleased RHW stuff, well, you may at some point again.

Mauricio (figui): Thanks for the kind words, and thanks for all your support of Tarkusian Cities over the years!  Glad to hear you found the region realistic, and hope you enjoy seeing a bit of how I work Chemeketa out some of the traffic problems in that immediate area for this update. :thumbsup:

Durfsurn: The next time I get on a roll of putting things together for updates, I may just have to include those as well--thanks for the suggestion!

Gugu3: Thanks--I'm thrilled that you enjoyed it!

Jon (bakerton): Thanks--I take that as a great compliment! (Hope I didn't cause it to drop too far :D)

Aaron Graham: Thanks for the kind words, Aaron--I'm glad to hear it looks realistic.  I could probably build some of those farms out even a little further to heighten the sense there.

kbieniu7: Indeed, it's pretty reflective of what I've seen growing up here in the western US.  What I've seen of your work looks quite European, too.  I think that really speaks to the great part about SC4 with custom content--it allows us the flexibility to build what we see.  And I know that river quite well from RL.  Thanks for the support!

Ben (benedict): Thanks for the congratulations on OSITM, and I'm just in shock at having finally hit #1 off of that exposure.  Thanks to all who have supported Tarkusian Cities, even in the "low" periods, and thanks to you for all your great work with BTT! :thumbsup:  I'm glad you enjoyed seeing the whole region and going back to see the really old stuff.

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks, Vincenzo--I know it's May now, but I hope 2013 is going well for you, too!

sebes: It's so great to see you around here! :thumbsup:  I'm thrilled to have you stop by as always, and I hope you enjoyed catching up on things here.  I still have the "original" Argentum laying about somewhere--the drunk engineers were fortunately fired by the city back around Update 11.  Time will tell if they'll show their faces in "Argentum Reloaded".  Might just be a small cameo (fortunately for the residents of that place). :D

SimCity V6: Life happened to this thread--but fortunately, I've managed to sneak in an update.  Might be awhile before Update 99, but thanks for your support, and I hope you enjoy getting a little fix of TC.



Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave NE Couplet Extension

With the increased popularity of luxury waterfront condos along the Willamette, both in Chemeketa and Vivien Heights, traffic in the northern CBDs of both cities has become a bit onerous, particularly along Division Street N and Wallace Road NW.

In order to mitigate some of the ongoing issues, and further regional interconnectivity, the two cities have acquired funding to extend the 15th and 16th Avenue NE couplet from Chemeketa, across the Willamette, to line up with 15th Avenue NW in Vivien Heights.

This is the existing intersection of the 15th/16th couplet on the Chemeketa side, with the Highway 215 couplet (Division St N/Commerce St NE), facing north.  As you can see, 15th currently extends farther west as a two-way local street, and a pathway extends out of the end of 16th.  In order to accommodate the improvements, the pathway will be re-routed, and the section of 15th to the west will be appropriated and converted to the eastbound part of the extended couplet.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrUr8DcY.jpg&hash=ce3fd952b921bcdae6fcc5161e9fdbcece1ff80d)

This image is a little bit north, past the point where Division and Commerce converge into a two-way roadway.  As you can see, there's been quite a building boom here. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCTqnJLx.jpg&hash=36a41bf91a4b766ea37fda28a933776a3436f13b)

This is a little farther north yet, at Division and 24th Ave, just before Division turns into the Chemeketa Parkway.  Quite a bit of development here, too. (facing north)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FV8rKPen.jpg&hash=e1ebbabd4797a6fc904236834054d679caeb3818)

This is on the Vivien Heights side of the river, at the intersection of Wallace Road and 15th Avenue NW, the western bounds of the project. (facing north).  As you can see, this is a pretty busy little stretch of road, too.  Much of it is traveling between Chemeketa and Vivien Heights over the Wallace Road Bridge, which is currently the only such bridge south of the Northern Crossing (Highway 221/52nd Ave).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6oTpFRK.jpg&hash=c888d90e391e73a87d957a524041ef386e831bae)

Work is underway on the Chemeketa side (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FTY3SYLc.jpg&hash=593b4a2f4495d9cb1bac76eff0e590d020f5d8a8)

And on the Vivien Heights side (facing north).  The wider street going north-south here is Water St NW.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEpK7rY2.jpg&hash=ece6f05dedbf8e19acdc5d629a1ec01fd51f94bd)

The 15th Ave span has been constructed (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fc12Z8rd.jpg&hash=11b97fae2d81c2dfdd371c5a95119137f829e4ef)

The work extending the couplet on the east side is mostly finished (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FpddcGqb.jpg&hash=6ee8f69376f855832eac1527b60fa2007d7ffb21)

And here's the west side (facing north).  The intersection of 15th/16th with Water St has been designed such that Water splits in two, and straddles some buildings, minimizing conflict points.  As the speed limit on the westernmost portion of the couplet is only 25mph, the sharp curves along 16th as it merges onto 15th should not prove problematic, though it is likely that this particular intersection will be tweaked further by city engineers.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQVxvVUd.jpg&hash=72797d25965114aa20dc5dcd10ddbacd82722672)

And here it is facing west.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FQQIp87l.jpg&hash=af0dfa7394db89b192edd22b1bbcb106c6d79beb)

The redesigned intersection of 15th and Wallace.  As you might expect, a few buildings had to go to make way for the wider roadway (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fb1b5wnq.jpg&hash=0869da2a4722cfdebd0d9e6e811c2a4285ab2365)

And a map of the finished product.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FEujwdSE.png&hash=94eec243d0b853341525c6776b4a3fa02e274624)

That does it for Update 98.  As I mentioned before, with life in flux, I can't say when I'll be able to post additional material, but thank you all for your patience over the years with the intermittent nature of Tarkusian Cities, and I hope you enjoyed this brief spring back into action.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: sebes on May 11, 2013, 01:22:39 AM
As usual, I love it!  Thanks for making the time to post it.  I was so thrilled by this Willamette Chronicle update that I wanted to have a look myself, took my car, and drove via 15th Ave with the desire to make the turn on to Water Street, only to find out that the engineers missed a section! I had to cross the congested new 15th Ave bridges back and forth, in order to make my turn to Water Street....  Major Turkus, tell those engineers to make a connection from 15th to Water, preferrably with a overpass to not hamper the 16th Avenue bridge traffic flows into the West part of town  :)   
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Schulmanator on May 11, 2013, 04:13:00 AM
Nice work and an impressive map. :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: metarvo on May 11, 2013, 06:27:15 AM
The one-way couplet is a fixture of many medium-sized towns in my area.  It's a feature that you would expect to see more in SC4 with the ability to build OWRs, and yet it doesn't seem to be done that much, so it's a nice change to see it here.  It's good to see some TC action once again after the hiatus.

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Swordmaster on May 11, 2013, 04:15:48 PM
Always great to see this one return, Alex. You don't seem to run out of ideas either. Wonder if you base them off real life examples or if you go more by your imagination. As always, the map is the best part here.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on May 12, 2013, 03:46:23 AM
Welcome back from your hard work in RL and on NAM 31 &apls &apls

It's a fantastic update!! :thumbsup:

Only a little critic: you could use an AVE bridge and on CHEMEKETA side split into two OWR. ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Gugu3 on May 12, 2013, 04:00:55 AM
Well done Tarkus!!always nice to see you're still enjoying playing the game!!! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Haljackey on May 16, 2013, 08:07:50 AM
Very nice work Dr. Tarkus! :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U98-5/10/2013-Chemeketa: 15th/16th Ave Couplet Extension)
Post by: Durfsurn on May 21, 2013, 01:49:46 AM
Along with the others Well Done!

Maybe some diagonals at the Vivian Heights end could be made to increase speed and reduce congestion?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on June 10, 2013, 01:29:08 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, I'm back with the first "post-doctoral" update.  We'll be getting a close up on the New Argentum this time around.  Appropriately enough, today also happens to be the birthday of one especially loyal Tarkusian reader, our Amsterdammer friend sebes, who created the "drunk engineer" term to refer to the quacks who built the original Caldera Lane/Barnaby Drive interchange in Old Argentum.  For those who don't remember it:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg183.imageshack.us%2Fimg183%2F4546%2Fcalderalnconstructionrz8.jpg&hash=b74e39ed5ccdb2d652af22be09afff3adb782977)

Yeah.  That wasn't pretty.  Fortunately, New Argentum's hiring practices tend to be much better at screening out the intoxicated candidates, so the illustrious J. Ron Error, former Capital Projects Engineer for the City of Argentum and the original "drunk engineer", won't be back to stick another "masterpiece" like that in there. 

But first, some replies:

sebes: Thanks for the kind words, and I'm glad you enjoyed it--and happy birthday!  Yes, that one turning motion is missing there--of course, that's not too unlike Burnside Street in Portland (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Burnside+Street&hl=en&ll=45.522646,-122.67378&spn=0.003116,0.008256&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&hq=Burnside+Street&radius=15000&t=m&z=18), where one must often cross the Burnside Bridge headed eastbound, across the real Willamette River, in order to make left turns onto the Northwest streets in Old Town/China Town.  But that situation is a rather big pain.  The Chemeketa situation will probably end up being revisited at some point, however--which will likely entail tweaking how the slope mod I'm using interacts with the Bridge Height Mod.

Schulmanator: Thanks!  Glad you enjoyed the map and the update.

metarvo: Thanks for the compliments on the update, and on my use of OWR couplets.  They're absolutely ubiquitous here in Oregon, with major arterials often fanning out into couplets upon entering CBDs, so it's been something that's been part of my building style since I started playing SC4.  It's kind of surprising that they aren't really focused on that much.

Willy (Swordmaster): Thanks for the very kind words--and it's a bit of both.  There's definitely a very heavy Western US influence, not just from Oregon and Washington, but also from California and Nevada.  Beyond the aforementioned Burnside Street example in Portland (there's even an OWR couplet split with a sharp jog on the east side of the river), there's some similarities here with other Oregon locales, including Albany (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Albany,+OR&hl=en&ll=44.638765,-123.098631&spn=0.025315,0.066047&sll=44.044229,-123.056359&sspn=0.025573,0.066047&hnear=Albany,+Linn,+Oregon&t=m&z=15) (US-20 splits into two OWR bridges to cross the Willamette), and the home of pesky rodentiae, Corvallis (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Corvallis,+OR&hl=en&ll=44.567236,-123.251495&spn=0.025346,0.066047&sll=44.566838,-123.251152&sspn=0.025346,0.066047&hnear=Corvallis,+Benton,+Oregon&t=m&z=15), where the OR-34 Business Route does the same thing.  (And actually, US-20/OR-99W do the same thing over the Mary's River just south of downtown).  It's kind of the thing to do when crossing the Willamette, I suppose. :D

Vincenzo (vinlabsc3k): Thanks for the warm welcome back, and I'm glad you enjoyed the update.  I had considered that approach a little, but there were some structures and parks that I was trying to avoid demolishing on the east side, and as I noted in my reply to Willy, there's actually a huge precedent for OWR couplet bridges in RL places after which Chemeketa is somewhat modeled.

Gugu3: Thanks, and I'm definitely still enjoying it.  It's nice to get a bit of a change of pace after grinding the RUL files for the NAM 31.x-series releases.

Ryan (Haljackey): Thanks--and the "Dr." part is finally starting to sink in now that the last post-defense paperwork is out of the way.  Still feels a bit odd, though. :D

Durfsurn: Thanks--I'm glad you enjoyed it!  The slope mod/Bridge Height Mod interaction is a large part of the reason why there's currently a sharp jog.  I would like to revisit that one a bit in time, once I've hit upon the right slope interactions that I can actually do it.




First off, here's a map of the central city tile of New Argentum.  The "dashed line" bits are involved in the first construction project we'll examine.  You'll notice some familiar road names from Old Argentum on here, including a few "honorees" from earlier in Tarkusian Cities.  (Click to view larger)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fl0dOYXG.jpg&hash=94f9af73b820c94ac326f25897109515c69fc53d) (http://i.imgur.com/epVavmS.png)

Now, I'm going to show an image of something I've never shown before--how I actually start off a town (facing east).  Usually, I lay out a small downtown-ish area and build out basic arterial roadways from it.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FoGgpOWG.jpg&hash=a421a53fc3e8152fd7d7c2c9114c3a42fe1880d2)

Here it is at a later stage in development, more or less filled in (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fy8HU77C.jpg&hash=6a60542b1683a5833bde7fbcf0944129693a3fc2)

This is the intersection of Caldera Drive and Argentum Boulevard (facing north).  As you can imagine, this is a major intersection that basically serves as the "gateway" into central New Argentum from the south.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fb7Qp00U.jpg&hash=616aa794cfdd51ac4fd69010e5eba794709eec37)

This is where Argentum Boulevard intersects Isthmus Avenue, a major east-west route (facing north).  It's clearly quite congested.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F7BbuHuc.jpg&hash=790b0a8ec00abf92cb6d7d12c760c283b8e85a73)

Same vicinity, a little farther north (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F0SWlhAp.jpg&hash=f8999a0ffff29d83ad9f3ef01ee75ec3a8f575e4)

A farther out view of the Argentum/Caldera intersection (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMFX3Dp3.jpg&hash=d638c812493ad15828f60be8ff2dc22233d14793)

This is along Caldera Drive as it heads diagonally along the shores of Emerson Lake (facing north).  As you can see here, seawalls have been built to keep Emerson Lake from spilling its banks during unseasonably wet weather.  The Stone Caldera, a mini crater lake in the midst of Argentum's downtown (and where Caldera Drive and Crater Street get their name) is also pictured.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8Hucx0b.jpg&hash=9b3843cbe74289d47de84a52537a6d430e7a5eab)

And here's where Caldera Drive intersects both Vista Street and Centum Avenue (facing north).  Some building construction is also occurring.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fi7veu1A.jpg&hash=4f0cf48360972f05bfc7d9173090e6ccd8c313da)

In order to alleviate the congestion along Argentum Boulevard, and at its intersection with Caldera Drive, the city is undertaking a project to convert Crater Street and Argentum Boulevard into a one-way couplet, between Lake Drive and a bit north of Isthmus Avenue.  Caldera and Lake will also become a couplet for a few short blocks.  Construction on the south end of this project has begun, as you can see here (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FfCO8Gxk.jpg&hash=3dea4b9d9746cdee754157f7df5d6f9ef5aa9027)

This is at the north end of the project (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FHQAC1Ih.jpg&hash=21ca05daa577c7ee289e2c8a53b1b80b5fec220f)

These two images show the connector roadway between Argentum Boulevard and Crater Street, north of Isthmus, being constructed, forming the northern split into the Argentum/Crater couplet (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbaGlFDl.jpg&hash=560a567344aec045ce02b107bb254bcdeeecacea)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLPSjty8.jpg&hash=eadee3bdc55783037431c90a94401dfd3601f846)

The finished result of this project will be shown next update which, astonishingly enough, will be Update 100 of Tarkusian Cities.  Hope you enjoyed this one, and we'll be back to New Argentum for some more construction shortly.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: sebes on June 10, 2013, 01:53:27 AM
What a birthday present this is: an update AND as bonus a pic of the good old drunk engineer intersection plus a major road named after me (again ha) . How cool is that  &apls   Thanks my Oregonian friend!  Its funny you mention that Portland bridge - when I was there a few years ago I crossed it twice before I figured out how to take the turn right there!

Thanks for showing how you start off a new Argentum - interesting to see. I wonder now though what was first: the roadmap or the roads in the citytile? This because i see quite some roads there that are not yet shown on pics. But maybe the drawing was made later?  Anyhow - gorgeous to see how you do this, and looking forward to see more soon!

&dance

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: APSMS on June 10, 2013, 01:58:02 AM
Another great update. I really like the roadgeek aspect as well as the maps. I'm looking into doing some for my own regions, but the work involved is a little daunting. Incidentally, the style of your maps remind me of the old Thomas Bros. Maps that used to come in large book form (I find them still more practical than a phone for navigation--what good is one when there's no internet?). Google Maps' coloring scheme is nifty, but I think the Thomas Bros. scheme tells you a little bit more about the situation with less need to label everything.

Hoping to see more now that school's done (although I suppose there is the new problem of finding a job and really starting on life...). If you don't mind me asking, what are you a Doctor of? (I guess you can always not answer this question; fine by me--I'm just curious).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: Swordmaster on June 10, 2013, 07:52:07 AM
Interesting update, Alex, and at 99 an incredible number. &apls

The Western US is certainly omnipresent in your MD, particularly in the prevalence of fused-like grids over more Midwestern/Eastern rectangular grids (or probably more correctly, the distinction newer/older suburbs, with the West having more and larger new suburbs).

Nice touch to include the empty grid. Always good to go back to Argentum (except it misses rail - maybe 2.0 is an opportunity? :P).


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: Gugu3 on June 10, 2013, 08:17:57 AM
Nice one Alex!like this town &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (U99-6/10/2013-New Argentum: A Couple Couplets, Part 1)
Post by: MandelSoft on June 10, 2013, 01:27:53 PM
Always lurking here, and I'm still enjoying to see your work. Especially the drunk engineer got me. I would never design roads like that  :D

99 updates is a milestone. You know what that means... we are going to hit the three-digit updates!  :o
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: Tarkus on October 27, 2013, 03:22:39 PM
Hi everyone-

Popping in quickly to let you all know that Tarkusian Cities will be emerging from its sabbatical mid-November, when the update odometer rolls over into the triple digits.

I'll just leave this here for a moment:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Faidtv0A.jpg&hash=eb019188d6638abb48a12797f86ec5f22ec7c1ed)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: Swordmaster on October 27, 2013, 03:42:32 PM
Hmm, interesting. I see rail, I see light rail. This reminds me of Portland. I think this intersection will get an interesting look--it so happens that I have AVExRRW textures lying in front of me  ;D


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: art128 on October 27, 2013, 04:13:55 PM
Looks like a great intersection under work, Alex!

Glad to see Tarkusian Cities back for Novemeber.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: Gugu3 on October 28, 2013, 02:41:20 AM
Curious to see what's happening here :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: sebes on October 28, 2013, 10:51:31 AM
Jay!!!!  &hlp

*staying tuned*
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: metarvo on October 28, 2013, 11:09:17 AM
This is good news, Alex.  :)  The return of TC will be one of the highlights of the year for sure.  The update makes me think that a crossing will be added soon.  There doesn't appear to be room for an overpass/underpass, so it would have to be a grade crossing.  It will be interesting to see how this area changes as RRW is rolled out.  Good work!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: rooker1 on October 29, 2013, 03:04:16 AM
Great news indeed to see a great MD coming back alive.

Robin &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: Kuewr665 on November 02, 2013, 08:08:57 PM
Looking forward to the update.  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: threestooges on November 25, 2013, 08:38:44 AM
Following up on sunv's work in Provo (which can be found now in Best Sellers) we're bringing up Tarkusian Cities from the Hall of Fame for the last shot here before the end of the month. Looking forward to seeing what you have planned.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1179.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fx388%2FsTUN2011%2FMouse%2520stuff%2FTarkusianCities_zpsd533c354.jpg&hash=c20dc2bf0691991e92cb05dd8ebb4d9456c9940d)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on November 25, 2013, 10:40:17 AM
&dance Congratulation for the award Alex!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: rooker1 on November 26, 2013, 05:55:27 AM
A huge congrats, this is going to be fun.

Robin &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.1-Teaser-10/27/2013)
Post by: noahclem on November 26, 2013, 06:23:34 AM
Congratulations Alex  &dance  I'm looking forward to the week!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.2-Teaser-11/27/2013)
Post by: Tarkus on November 27, 2013, 01:55:32 AM
First off, thank you to the OSITM committee for having Tarkusian Cities be a part of the anniversary month 4-in-1, and thanks for all the congratulations and support already.  Beginning of the week has unfortunately been a bit more hectic than I'd like, but this quiet start is just around the bend from an onslaught of Tarkustry.  We'll take a look at some unfinished business in Argentum (the new one), some extensive plans for Chemeketa (including, as seen in my last teaser, some mass transit), and perhaps a trip (or two) down memory lane to some older regions.

In the meanwhile, another taste:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F6e5TqgH.jpg&hash=452e7016b48eacde4fb3f76c52b6184a6a2cefd3)

Back with more shortly . . .

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.2-Teaser-11/27/2013)
Post by: noahclem on November 27, 2013, 02:13:07 AM
That's a nice gentle slope and L1 is always pretty  ;)  I wonder where the avenue is going and what else is happening in the construction zone....
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.2-Teaser-11/27/2013)
Post by: RepublicMaster on November 27, 2013, 02:37:20 AM
Nice teaser, looks like an industrial part of town! I can't wait for more. :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 99.2-Teaser-11/27/2013)
Post by: Gugu3 on November 27, 2013, 06:58:04 AM
Can't wait for more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 100-11/29/2013-Chemeketa Plans-OSITM 1)
Post by: Tarkus on November 29, 2013, 01:08:03 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, at long last, after a couple teasers, we've rolled the odometer to Update 100.  And aside from the fact that there's three digits now, this update will simply be a dose of good old-fashioned Tarkusian Cities, something which has been a bit of a scarcity lately.  I'm going to continue along the lines of the teasers, and show you all the start of what will be the start of a modest light rail system in Chemeketa, along with a number of road realignment and extension projects that will accompany it.  The continuation of Update 99's couplet project in Argentum (2.0) will serve as a bit of an intermission in what should be a multi-update arc, and I may take a little peek back at a couple of Tarkusian Cities you may not have seen in some time, including the discovery of a "lost update" from 2009.

Chemeketa, unfortunately, has begun to experience the dreaded prop pox in its downtown tile, and I've yet to ascertain just what is causing it, so I am considering a full Plugins reboot and a new Tarkusian region in the near future.  As it's been a few years since I've done that--since Chemeketa's start some 4 years ago--it's actually a process I'm somewhat looking forward to undertaking.

Below is the map of Chemeketa, with a rough sketch of some of the proposed changes shown.  Road realignments or additions are in dashed lines, reflecting the color of the new roadway's expected functional classification, and the new light rail line is shown on the map as the "Proposed Red Line".  As my long-time stand-by for large maps, Gmapuploader, is no longer offering the service I used, I'm trying out Zoom.it and using my space at SimTarkus for image hosting.



Now to see the "proposals" in action.

The two major projects you'll see under way during this project are the start of the Red Line, and the Tweedy-Ashcroft Corridor project, which are symbiotically related.  (If you're curious as to the namesakes for those roads, see here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Tweedy) and here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Ashcroft), respectively.)  The Red Line, as a whole, is intended to begin at the Chemeketa Airport, wind its way past the university and through downtown parallel to the railroad tracks, and eventually curve onto 33rd Avenue NE, heading through a high-tech area and ending in the Starpoint District, serving to link up downtown with the airport, and alleviate commute-related traffic on the south end of the Chemeketa Parkway.

This first image is at the intersection of Stiratt Road SE and Link Road SE.  Link Road acts as a little connector between Tweedy Boulevard and Stiratt Road, which are important arterials in the area, and it is surprisingly congested, even more so by the fact that it has an at-grade rail crossing along both it and Stiratt, right near the intersection.  McCabe Street SE is planned to be realigned to meet up with Link Road at Tweedy, and overpasses will be built to cross over both the existing rail line, and the under-construction light rail line.

Stiratt Road traffic was temporary diverted and briefly closed, to make room for the overpass construction (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FZq0nAWF.jpg&hash=660be49532016338b1284cf4db57c3706e7d44bc)

Overpass work under way (facing north).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIOWjXIj.jpg&hash=5da5585993bf981f76185cd353d2dad5d32f5561)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FOwsIkwm.jpg&hash=850d205020615708e2d67b5c49e22614f33e0fed)

This is facing west.  The 4-lane structure is the replacement for Link Road, which will be renamed as an extension of McCabe Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9ZOGFpA.jpg&hash=aa247d4b0023eaa10aedad8b015422465ea9e259)

This is at the new Tweedy/McCabe intersection (facing west).  This intersection's completion is a necessary step in preparing for the Tweedy Boulevard re-alignment and Red Line construction.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9LHsifc.jpg&hash=74a7df6599b0071f7442f209caac97b8e8776faa)

More construction.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FuckvoOz.jpg&hash=6fcfd23ee2a3d616e6781d4cbd76675accfb5dc5)

This is where the existing McCabe Street alignment meets with the new alignment (facing west).  The road will now continue south to meet with the former Link Road, instead of southwest to align with 45th Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FuckvoOz.jpg&hash=6fcfd23ee2a3d616e6781d4cbd76675accfb5dc5)

And the new alignment after completion (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FDDzGf4P.jpg&hash=07f54c34601895d5e33ccee8f0b241e1b7e508a6)

The new intersection at Tweedy is open for business (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F1VfaT0B.jpg&hash=512c5045fd2b2f284f4171ee3e2c59b4c4bd81af)

Two roads through the industrial area along McCabe have been converted to one-way traffic, in order to handle the loads caused by the Tweedy Blvd closure.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FrF2LyUy.jpg&hash=63787764f485ada59b20c00e03c4de8086d18ba4)

This is where Tweedy and Ashcroft currently converge, at the intersection with 35th St SE.  The new one-way couplet hooks in here as well.  Ashcroft will eventually be extended south, some 35 blocks, to meet up with the proposed Western Bypass. (facing west)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBd1RuP4.jpg&hash=164fa8c63d058969db2f1e23435ade38ff506c05)

35th is also being realigned (its naming is actually a bit odd, as it actually intersects Tweedy/Ashcroft where 38th should be), and the eastbound part of the couplet now connects into it, a temporary change. (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FIqsHwdM.jpg&hash=95760a479bb69f619510cd7835a8d6c36f0a36fe)

Tweedy Blvd west of the new McCabe Street intersection has now been torn out, and work begins on extending Ashcroft Street (facing west).  Upon the project's completion, Ashcroft Street will have an overpass atop Tweedy Boulevard, allowing for smoother traffic flow. 

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F8MnrfbS.jpg&hash=be18d51183b145368695e70a8180c8b4fe8e6588)

That does it for this installment of Tarkusian Cities.  I'll be back with more, and replies to the growing mailbox queue quite soon.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 100-11/29/2013-Chemeketa Plans-OSITM 1)
Post by: Wiimeiser on November 29, 2013, 02:02:25 AM
It's a shame you'll probably have to delete the region after this (does obliterating work?), sounds like it was a growable. See, folks, this is why you never touch the vanilla prop IIDs, including the ones Maxis reserved and never released
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 100-11/29/2013-Chemeketa Plans-OSITM 1)
Post by: Kuewr665 on November 29, 2013, 05:33:51 PM
Great work there. I see a passenger train, so is commuter rail there anyway?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 100-11/29/2013-Chemeketa Plans-OSITM 1)
Post by: Swordmaster on November 30, 2013, 01:10:22 AM
Very nice Alex. Seems like zoom.it is better than gmap (especially with Admin powers $%Grinno$%). The "toggle full page" feature is very handy here.

I'll need some more time to digest the pictures; I'm also gonna wait to see what happens next.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: Tarkus on November 30, 2013, 02:30:27 AM
Hi everyone-

Something you don't see very often--two Tarkusian Cities updates in a week.  We'll delve further into construction on the Tweedy/Ashcroft Corridor and the light rail project this update.  But first, I'm going to reach into the mailbox, going back to Update 99.

Quote from: sebes on June 10, 2013, 01:53:27 AM
What a birthday present this is: an update AND as bonus a pic of the good old drunk engineer intersection plus a major road named after me (again ha) . How cool is that  &apls   Thanks my Oregonian friend!  Its funny you mention that Portland bridge - when I was there a few years ago I crossed it twice before I figured out how to take the turn right there!

Thanks for showing how you start off a new Argentum - interesting to see. I wonder now though what was first: the roadmap or the roads in the citytile? This because i see quite some roads there that are not yet shown on pics. But maybe the drawing was made later?  Anyhow - gorgeous to see how you do this, and looking forward to see more soon!

&dance

Sounds like I picked a perfect time for Update 99--thrilled to hear you enjoyed it, and I had to ensure I stuck some of the longtime TC followers who had been honored in Argentum 1.0 in the new version. :)  You wouldn't happen to be talking about the Burnside Bridge, would you?  That one's notorious for some odd turn restrictions, even more so since the light rail tracks were laid on the 5th/6th Ave transit mall.  If you want to talk about drunk engineers, check out this wacky bus lane/light rail track crossing (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=SW+6th+Ave+Portland,+OR&hl=en&ll=45.516051,-122.680288&spn=0.000723,0.000853&sll=45.520764,-122.777104&sspn=0.431064,1.056747&hnear=SW+6th+Ave,+Portland,+Oregon&t=h&deg=90&z=21&layer=c&cbll=45.516051,-122.680288&panoid=WIffVxyjctQ5tgSnZX8J-A&cbp=12,170.17,,0,11.87) mid block.  Yikes.

The roads in the city tile come pre-map 99% of the time.  Sometimes, I'll draw things that are merely in the conceptual stage on the map, but the vast majority of it is built off the game's actual Congestion Data View map, coupled with imagery of the area for clarity in places with overpasses, or that are otherwise particularly laden with transit networks.  The result is that the map is largely WYSIWYG in terms of where things are actually placed in game, with minor artistic flourishes. 

Quote from: APSMS on June 10, 2013, 01:58:02 AM
Another great update. I really like the roadgeek aspect as well as the maps. I'm looking into doing some for my own regions, but the work involved is a little daunting. Incidentally, the style of your maps remind me of the old Thomas Bros. Maps that used to come in large book form (I find them still more practical than a phone for navigation--what good is one when there's no internet?). Google Maps' coloring scheme is nifty, but I think the Thomas Bros. scheme tells you a little bit more about the situation with less need to label everything.

Hoping to see more now that school's done (although I suppose there is the new problem of finding a job and really starting on life...). If you don't mind me asking, what are you a Doctor of? (I guess you can always not answer this question; fine by me--I'm just curious).

Thanks for the kind words, and yes, the Thomas Bros. Maps--particularly those from the mid/late-'90s, up to early 00's (before Rand McNally tried to ruin them)--were a huge inspiration.  Growing up, I'd often sit in car and study the Portland Metro ones, and I've never been a fan of phone/GPS/satnav (an occasional hobby of mine is finding errors with those).  Of course, some of the functional classification could get a bit wonky at times.  I still remember taking issue with how they showed a major arterial that traverses through almost all of Washington County as only a "black line", but it's still miles better than Google's limited options.

And to answer your question, my recently-completed doctorate is in music composition/theory.

Quote from: Swordmaster on June 10, 2013, 07:52:07 AM
Interesting update, Alex, and at 99 an incredible number. &apls

The Western US is certainly omnipresent in your MD, particularly in the prevalence of fused-like grids over more Midwestern/Eastern rectangular grids (or probably more correctly, the distinction newer/older suburbs, with the West having more and larger new suburbs).

Nice touch to include the empty grid. Always good to go back to Argentum (except it misses rail - maybe 2.0 is an opportunity? :P).

Thanks, Willy, and it's astonishing to believe this thing's past the century mark now.  The Western US, and its suburban areas, are definitely a huge influence, and influences my layouts in a number of ways.  I try to create patterns that have enough "randomness" in them to make them interesting, without becoming incoherent, and the seeming randomness, coupled with the in-game traffic data, also allows me opportunities for some of the realignment projects that feature prominently here.  One day, I'll have to try a video series like Haljackey has done, and lay bare my thought process while building things up on a blank region.

There is some rail in Argentum 2.0, but not in the parts I've shown thus far.  There's actually an interesting twist with that region, that I haven't fully revealed.  And of course, Chemeketa is getting a bit more rail-y.

Quote from: Gugu3 on June 10, 2013, 08:17:57 AM
Nice one Alex!like this town &apls

Thanks Guglielmo!  Glad you enjoyed it--we'll be back to the new Argentum, soon, too. :thumbsup:

Quote from: MandelSoft on June 10, 2013, 01:27:53 PM
Always lurking here, and I'm still enjoying to see your work. Especially the drunk engineer got me. I would never design roads like that  :D

99 updates is a milestone. You know what that means... we are going to hit the three-digit updates!  :o

Thanks, Maarten--and yes, the drunk engineer was riotously absurd.  I look back at things I've built earlier in SC4--including things in my more "mature" stage as a player here in this MD--and wonder, "what was I thinking?!" :D

Here's to hopefully many more updates here.

Quote from: Swordmaster on October 27, 2013, 03:42:32 PM
Hmm, interesting. I see rail, I see light rail. This reminds me of Portland. I think this intersection will get an interesting look--it so happens that I have AVExRRW textures lying in front of me  ;D

Indeed, there is light rail.  And oddly enough, it's a line connecting the airport to downtown, and it's a Red Line.  That's where the similarity stops, however.  Having ridden the MAX a fair bit during the one year of undergrad I spent at Portland State U, I'm painfully aware of issues with that system, and hope to prevent those flaws from stymieing Chemeketa's system.

And more RRW news is good news--you're doing amazing work with that project.  You'll probably see bits and pieces of it sneak into my development updates, as I've played around with it some (though not with any particular fluency yet).  And congrats again on your recent promotion! :thumbsup:

Quote from: art128 on October 27, 2013, 04:13:55 PM
Looks like a great intersection under work, Alex!

Glad to see Tarkusian Cities back for Novemeber.  &apls

Thanks, Arthur, and it's good to be back!  That intersection is just one of many.  It's absurd how much the layout in that corridor in South Chemeketa is going to change around as part of this project, and I hope it makes for a compelling read/view.

Quote from: Gugu3 on October 28, 2013, 02:41:20 AM
Curious to see what's happening here :thumbsup:

I am too. :D

Quote from: sebes on October 28, 2013, 10:51:31 AM
Jay!!!!  &hlp

*staying tuned*

And there's still quite a bit more to come.  There will be a blitz of TC activity going into December.

Quote from: metarvo on October 28, 2013, 11:09:17 AM
This is good news, Alex.  :)  The return of TC will be one of the highlights of the year for sure.  The update makes me think that a crossing will be added soon.  There doesn't appear to be room for an overpass/underpass, so it would have to be a grade crossing.  It will be interesting to see how this area changes as RRW is rolled out.  Good work!

:thumbsup:

Thanks, metarvo--it's good to be back at this.  The crossing there is just the tip of the iceberg.  The amount of realignment is staggering.

Quote from: rooker1 on October 29, 2013, 03:04:16 AM
Great news indeed to see a great MD coming back alive.

Robin &apls

Thanks, Robin--hope you enjoy the developments during this latest round of updates. :thumbsup:

Quote from: Kuewr665 on November 02, 2013, 08:08:57 PM
Looking forward to the update.  ;)

Hope you enjoyed it, and are ready for more. :)

Quote from: noahclem on November 27, 2013, 02:13:07 AM
That's a nice gentle slope and L1 is always pretty  ;)  I wonder where the avenue is going and what else is happening in the construction zone....

Thanks, Noah, and there's ton more L1 overpasses where that came from.  Tweedy Blvd is getting a partial expressway treatment, necessitated by the addition of the parallel light rail line.  All will be revealed soon.

Quote from: RepublicMaster on November 27, 2013, 02:37:20 AM
Nice teaser, looks like an industrial part of town! I can't wait for more. :)

Indeed, that's the southern high-tech/manufacturing district, which will probably get developed a bit more once the improvements are in place.  Thanks for the compliments on it!

Quote from: Wiimeiser on November 29, 2013, 02:02:25 AM
It's a shame you'll probably have to delete the region after this (does obliterating work?), sounds like it was a growable. See, folks, this is why you never touch the vanilla prop IIDs, including the ones Maxis reserved and never released

The whole region isn't a loss, and I'm still looking into what I can do to save the CBD tile.  I actually have a couple pre-pox backups around on it, and plan to use it to research the prevailing theories on the pox.  That'll depend a bit on RL, however--it's likely it'll get shelved for a bit following these updates, while I tinker under the hood of the city tile.

Quote from: Kuewr665 on November 29, 2013, 05:33:51 PM
Great work there. I see a passenger train, so is commuter rail there anyway?

Thanks, and to answer your question, the C&O Railroad had an interesting deal with the City of Chemeketa, to do a trial of passenger rail along the corridor that was planned for light rail.  The commuter rail couldn't be permanent, as C&O's primary intent with the line is freight, but they obliged temporarily for a fairly substantial chunk of change, plus city-funded improvements to their tracks.  It's a "public-private partnership", I suppose.

Quote from: Swordmaster on November 30, 2013, 01:10:22 AM
Very nice Alex. Seems like zoom.it is better than gmap (especially with Admin powers $%Grinno$%). The "toggle full page" feature is very handy here.

I'll need some more time to digest the pictures; I'm also gonna wait to see what happens next.

Thanks, Willy, and I'm definitely impressed with zoom.it so far.  I couldn't embed Gmapuploader's stuff (at least, not without mucking around with Google's API).  Hope the next round of construction aids with digestion. ;D

-------
Now, to return to construction activities.  Last we left off, Tweedy Blvd had been closed, and work was starting on realigning and extending Ashcroft Street, instead of having Ashcroft run into Tweedy, south of 35th.

This is facing west at that same spot, after work has begun on building an overpass (facing west).  Ashcroft will pass over the extended section of Tweedy Blvd, with access being provided by a future connector roadway, which will be built a bit later.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FT4JJnPf.jpg&hash=733949cfc34e9999e5d24acd53f3e3c8137bf200)

This is to the south of that area, showing where the extended Ashcroft Street will meet with 45th Street SE (facing west).  Upon completion of the project, 45th will be closed off just east of this future intersection, instead of continuing across the tracks and meeting up with the old alignment of McCabe Street.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FuoQShOL.jpg&hash=6e6afa8e753f89aac96dcd601c21b106a81f3829)

The overpass on Ashcroft is coming along nicely.  Now it just needs some more things to go under it (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCEgH45g.jpg&hash=310163b79ca72a34e7a31eb9d7dadff197f17333)

The elevated part of the Ashcroft extension is now hooked into the existing northern section (facing west).  The 36th/37th couplet is still in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx2IPmVl.jpg&hash=f32e3c26cb6906b82ff613cf68af0eda147bf598)

A temporary alignment of the Ashcroft extension, terminating at 45th, has been built, to alleviate traffic displaced by the Tweedy Blvd closure (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FB5AvKMz.jpg&hash=c55a2f5a09c25791d9cd1edcc347fe6e4f5f4bdd)

The new Tweedy alignment is being built under the Ashcroft overpass (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbK0Q2I9.jpg&hash=085c685af95bc8bdef234473623329de16d2083c)

This is along 35th, past the end of the 36th/37th couplet, and just a bit west of the intersection that had been demolished (facing west).  As you can see, 35th has some substantial issues of its own, prompting Tweedy Blvd extension.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbK0Q2I9.jpg&hash=085c685af95bc8bdef234473623329de16d2083c)

So, that intersection is getting demolished, too (facing west).  You can see the Tweedy Blvd extension sneaking into the picture in the bottom left corner.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FkSwWB2b.jpg&hash=fec0d1f6aeb7a04a691955807e5ea9160ffb558a)

This is at the intersection of Nego Way (named after long-time TC supporter Nego) and Anglia Way (facing west), which, as you can see, is also very congested.  Tweedy Blvd will be extended to meet and overtake Anglia Way's present alignment at this spot.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FGwAGEdC.jpg&hash=fecb443fd9694ca8e4c84c43564484c75bfa40e9)

The extension has now been built (facing west).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlFa8TLM.jpg&hash=a74b221a5e5d96662081c78f35a66de74363a58e)

This is where Tweedy Blvd meets up with the aforementioned "connector" to the grade-separated section of Ashcroft (facing east).  The diagonal road paralleling the rebuilt Tweedy Blvd is part of the old alignment of 35th.  The road that previously intersected 35th has been cut off at the tracks.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMrsaFRd.jpg&hash=166f0ea526f60d601579f1710f8f8878aad377af)

A little further realignment work south of Tweedy along the extension (facing east).  This will be put into better context soon.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FdW5RCzJ.jpg&hash=0e6448eb169d514681c11584a778e30486eae8a9)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fx538ol1.jpg&hash=703b3716e5f19eee7d9c05a436a5d8d3f5514cef)

That does it for this installment.  Stay tuned for Part 3 of this project, coming next time.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on November 30, 2013, 05:07:47 AM
Amazing road-geekery Alex!! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: art128 on November 30, 2013, 05:29:40 AM
Congratulations for the OSITM 4in1 award, Alex!

Wonderful work on your network, as usual :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: benedict on November 30, 2013, 06:07:52 AM
Great to see more from Tarkusian Cities.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: Haljackey on November 30, 2013, 07:02:39 AM
I always love this style of story-telling. I simply don't have the patience to make nice-looking construction shots, so I applaud your work. Great job! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: sunv123 on November 30, 2013, 07:27:53 AM
Very nice couple of updates, Alex! :thumbsup:

Usually, roadgeekery is more than enough for me, but construction and roadgeekery is /&HiPP/%
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 101-11/30/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 2-OSITM 2)
Post by: Gugu3 on November 30, 2013, 03:12:41 PM
Cool stuff! &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: Tarkus on December 03, 2013, 06:56:28 PM
Hi everyone-

The Tarkusian Cities update splurge continues.  But first, let's open the mailbox:

Quote from: vinlabsc3k on November 30, 2013, 05:07:47 AM
Amazing road-geekery Alex!! :thumbsup:

Thanks, Vincenzo!  And there will be quite a bit more to come--this December is shaping up to be the one of the most active stretches in the history of Tarkusian Cities.

Quote from: art128 on November 30, 2013, 05:29:40 AM
Congratulations for the OSITM 4in1 award, Alex!

Wonderful work on your network, as usual :)

Thanks for the kind words, Arthur!  It was great to be back in OSITM for a brief stint, and it's helped with getting momentum going in this MD again.

Quote from: benedict on November 30, 2013, 06:07:52 AM
Great to see more from Tarkusian Cities.

Ben, thanks for the encouragement!  And there's still more to come . . .

Quote from: Haljackey on November 30, 2013, 07:02:39 AM
I always love this style of story-telling. I simply don't have the patience to make nice-looking construction shots, so I applaud your work. Great job! &apls

From someone who has also developed an intriguing new style of story-telling with BACFS (the NAMite in me can't help but acronymize that :D), I take that as quite the compliment. :thumbsup:  I've been meaning, one of these days, to find a way to kick my construction realism up another notch.  Perhaps I'll look into that once NAM 32 is done.

Quote from: sunv123 on November 30, 2013, 07:27:53 AM
Very nice couple of updates, Alex! :thumbsup:

Usually, roadgeekery is more than enough for me, but construction and roadgeekery is /&HiPP/%

Thanks!  I'm glad I could fulfill both your roadgeekery and construction needs here--and there will be quite a bit more to come. :)

Quote from: Gugu3 on November 30, 2013, 03:12:41 PM
Cool stuff! &apls

Thanks!  And there's more where that came from, on its way.




Last we left off, the Ashcroft overpass had been built, along with a good bit of the new routing of Tweedy Blvd, and work on the light rail line.  Now, we're going to delve a little further into that project.

This is at the south end of the Ashcroft overpass (facing east), where Ashcroft has been temporarily routed to end at 45th St SE.  This temporarily alignment will give way to the permanent alignment this update.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FmqKZcH9.jpg&hash=c09de4ae255280a59494894bc4a15bf41139fffd)

The short, curvy connector roadway between 45th and Stiratt will be replaced by the Ashcroft extension, which will be built to include 4 travel lanes, at least between 45th and 61st during this phase.  Here's the progress on that (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwoGkMxD.jpg&hash=28c4aa853572d0fb81776d222363217e1450a7bc)

This is the new Ashcroft/Stiratt intersection, after completion (facing east).  The old connector road can be seen in the lower left corner.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMkfHXa7.jpg&hash=1bbcf4dfaec10332b7ef4786cf30635148a9dafc)

The new Ashcroft/45th intersection (facing east).  The section of 45th up top formerly crossed the tracks and intersected Tweedy Blvd, but now dead-ends just before the tracks.  You can also see the remnants of the old connector road and the temporary Ashcroft alignment here.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwTT2f7W.jpg&hash=2d3cc2969151f8210fb193b450e270d7d99ff43f)

The Ashcroft overpass is seen here, fully open to traffic, with preliminary work on the Ashcroft stop on the new Chemeketa Red Line (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FBhWIBM5.jpg&hash=6312c07bc63358e35ea9973830e13658c310c50e)

This is along the Tweedy Blvd extension.  (facing east)  Part of the old alignment of 35th has been turned into a roadway paralleling Tweedy on the other side of the Red Line tracks.  You can also see the city's "trial" passenger train from C&O running on the heavy rail tracks.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FITknanT.jpg&hash=300a2618406551d3a0aebb3a76f5d9df10641fab)

In order to provide access from Tweedy to Ashcroft, an access road was built, hooking into the 36th/37th St couplet through the industrial area, and providing more direct access to Ashcroft Station (facing east).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fq3kVDZ0.jpg&hash=21ce3d17e08138a610372c185946e58718a64dcd)

The next update will provide a little further clarity as to all the myriad changes undertaken as part of this project.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: APSMS on December 03, 2013, 10:01:35 PM
Three updates in one week! Incredible. These are very nice, even if the whole update deal is still slightly confusing at the moment.

Also, it's good to know I'm not the only one who read those Thomas Bros. map books when I was younger (I read the So. Cal versions, and my dad even had a black and white version from 1985 for San Diego). I'm still amazed that I meet people at my school who don't know which direction north is, but we can't all be geographically sensitive, I guess. (of course, they're usually better than me in other things, so...)

Looking forward to more!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: Swordmaster on December 09, 2013, 09:55:48 AM
Ha! Don't think I didn't notice it--you slipped in a duplicate image to test us $%Grinno$%

(http://i.imgur.com/bK0Q2I9.jpg is shown twice in update 101)

Nice updates! Not fully digested yet, though.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: noahclem on December 09, 2013, 10:22:12 AM
Great OSITM work Alex  &apls  I'm really enjoying the reconstructed artery here. I've always liked multi-modal transity arteries like this, both in RL and SC4 and the diagonal nature of this area adds to its character I think. Depending on the nature of the partial expressway treatment you may want to consider implementing parts of it as Symphony.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: Gugu3 on December 09, 2013, 12:18:46 PM
Very nice job Alex &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 102-12/3/2013-Chemeketa Red Line 3)
Post by: titanicbuff on December 17, 2013, 03:18:12 PM
Whooo- thats some complex road building.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Tarkus on June 11, 2017, 03:55:46 PM
#BringingTarkyBack?  Stay tuned.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/tc-teaser-06112017-1.jpg)

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Simcoug on June 11, 2017, 04:05:50 PM
I think something is playing tricks on my eyes...  :clap:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: SimCity V6 on June 11, 2017, 07:32:53 PM
At long last, a new dawn.  :thumbsup: &apls

I'd have to wonder if this is the Argentum 2.0 setting rumored in the past, or something new? I guess the return is a big "yes", anyhow.  ;)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Durfsurn on June 11, 2017, 07:46:20 PM
 :o :shocked2: Magnificent!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: APSMS on June 11, 2017, 07:48:38 PM
 &dance

:bnn:

:popcorn:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Kitsune on June 11, 2017, 08:10:20 PM
I thought someone needlessly bumped the thread.. but nope, its instead coming back? Thats a nice surprise.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: praiodan on June 11, 2017, 11:28:20 PM
Yeah, bring it on.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: vester on June 12, 2017, 07:16:25 AM
Alex is at it again

&dance
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Gugu3 on June 12, 2017, 08:21:48 AM
Yeah!!!!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: Akallan on June 12, 2017, 01:31:59 PM
That it is good to see old CJs coming out of nowhere! ;D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (06/11/2017 - ???)
Post by: mattb325 on June 12, 2017, 01:47:22 PM
Now this will be great  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: Tarkus on June 14, 2017, 07:17:22 PM
Hi everyone-

Thank you all for the warm welcome back! :thumbsup:

As many of you may have hoped after my little teaser three days ago, I am happy to confirm that Tarkusian Cities is indeed returning from its 3 1/2-year hiatus.  The plans to bring Tarkusian Cities back actually happened as a happy accident--Simtropolis' own Dirktator and Cyclone Boom tasked me with obtaining some NAM-related screenshots for a project.  I dusted off Chemeketa and both versions of Argentum to that end.  I wanted to get a good sampling of GLR and GLR Dual-Networking features, and ended up spending a fair bit of time playing around in Chemeketa, resolving the light rail "cliffhanger" set up by Update 102 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1555.msg473400#msg473400), back in December 2013. 

It was the first time I had truly played the game in quite some time, outside of my normal NAM development work, and I had a blast.  I'm not sure how much longer I'll really be able to do anything with the Chemeketa region, as my attempts to try to use an earlier backup to avert a Prop Pox issue in the downtown tile have unfortunately proved unsuccessful, and one of the other built-up tiles shows evidence of disabled props in SC4 Savegame Explorer.  Argentum 2.0 also hit a point where I wasn't really feeling it anymore, though I do actually have some archives I've located of some projects I've done there that haven't seen the light of day, which I'm hoping to process into updates.  In all likelihood, I'll be starting a new region in the near future, though pending RL (I'm looking at moving out of Oregon, possibly as early as this summer) might put things back on hiatus for a bit.

So, without further ado, here's Update 103, where we'll be picking up with the construction of the Chemeketa Red Line light rail system.  The Red Line is designed to connect between Chemeketa Regional Airport to the office and high tech area in the Lila Engel neighborhood, near the intersection of 39th Avenue NE and Ashcroft Street.  When we last left off, construction was wrapping up on southern portion of the line, paralleling the newly-reconstructed and realigned Tweedy Boulevard SE. 

This update will pick up with the central segment of the line, which will run through Downtown Chemeketa.  The route will continue to mostly parallel the existing C&O Railroad line, though in order to minimize disruptions to C&O's operations, and minimize demolition, it includes a "crossover" over the existing rail line, just south of 20th Street SE, and a stretch where it will run in the median of an expanded Rail Avenue, roughly between Salisbury Way SE and 8th Avenue NE.  Additionally, the 9th/10th Avenue SE couplet will be extended one block east, from Rail Avenue SE to Liberty Street SE, in order to reconfigure some less intuitive intersections, and allow for a grade-separated crossing of both the Red Line and C&O Railroad. 

Here's a look at the finalized routing through downtown and vicinity (click to enlarge).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-lightrail.png?w=175) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-lightrail.png)

This is just south of 20th Street SE, near the point where the crossover will be constructed (facing north).  The road just to the east is Anglia Way SE (which is now connected directly to Tweedy Boulevard, just south of here).  The crossover is needed due to the presence of the rail junction just north of here.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-1.jpg)

The crossover under construction (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-2.jpg)

Here is the current alignment along 10th Street SE, where the couplet with 9th Street SE will be extended one block east (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-3.jpg)

The completed crossover (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-4.jpg)

The 20th Street SE station on the Red Line, just south of the C&O junction (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-5.jpg)

Work begins at 10th Street SE (facing north).
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-6.jpg)

The portion of 10th Street SE between Rail Avenue SE and Liberty Street SE has been closed, in preparation for excavation work (facing north).  This part of the central segment of the Red Line is actually the only one where building demolition was required, due to the more extensive reconfiguration of traffic patterns at this spot.
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-7.jpg)

Preparation work also begins on extending 9th Street SE from Rail to Liberty (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-8.jpg)

That wraps up this construction update.  For Update 104, we'll continue with the 10th Avenue SE reconstruction, and enter into the heart of downtown.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: stebo48021 on June 14, 2017, 08:05:44 PM
So glad your are back working on your cities, I used to love following this showcase over the years :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: mattb325 on June 15, 2017, 02:54:29 PM
It's nice to see all of the construction scenes back  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: Simcoug on June 15, 2017, 07:09:42 PM
Welcome back  &dance
The RRW upgrade looks good too  :)

Non SC4 related... will you still be in the PNW, or another part of the country?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: SimCity V6 on June 15, 2017, 09:50:18 PM
Sooner than I expected. I'd also like to say the return of the MD also probably coincides with the 10th anniversary (already?), but I guess the reasoning was true. Excellent anyhow, you're definitely hard at work improving your SC4 city.  &apls
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: art128 on June 15, 2017, 10:16:20 PM
Nice to see you firing up the game from time to time. Great update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: Themistokles on June 16, 2017, 12:24:46 AM
That's a welcome return! I imagine you have much to attend to, now that NWM and all the other parts of the NAM has progressed so far, to a large extent thanks to yourself :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: tomvsotis on June 16, 2017, 08:42:42 AM
Oh awesome! I will look forward to reading/following this :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: EDGE4194 on June 17, 2017, 05:08:49 AM
Alex- I am excited to follow your updates again- I have really missed these! I forgot how awesome your maps were.  :thumbsup:  Glad to hear you are able to find time to actually play the game for a change. ------------Eric
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 103-06/14/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 4)
Post by: Nanami on June 17, 2017, 09:17:31 AM
Glad to see you back here with your city! Interesting update about the light rail construction on the downtown. nice work in overall!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Tarkus on June 17, 2017, 06:23:17 PM
Hi everyone-

I'm back to share even more Tarkusian Cities progress, by picking up where we left off with the construction on Chemeketa's Red Line. 

First, I want to answer the "mailbag" from Update 103:

Quote from: stebo48021 on June 14, 2017, 08:05:44 PM
So glad your are back working on your cities, I used to love following this showcase over the years :)

First off, welcome to the world of posting here at SC4D--I'm really flattered that Tarkusian Cities was where you chose to make your first post here, too! :thumbsup:  It feels really good to be back at this, and I hope you continue to enjoy the updates here.

Quote from: mattb325 on June 15, 2017, 02:54:29 PM
It's nice to see all of the construction scenes back  :thumbsup:

Thanks, Matt!  It felt like riding a bicycle putting those together again . . . I still want to design some new construction lots one of these days, but finding the time has been the killer.

Quote from: Simcoug on June 15, 2017, 07:09:42 PM
Welcome back  &dance
The RRW upgrade looks good too  :)

Non SC4 related... will you still be in the PNW, or another part of the country?

Thanks, it's good to be back! ;D  I'm really enjoying what the RRW brings to the equation with rail, and I think I'll end up doing quite a bit more with it with my next region.  I'm still floored at just how much Stephen (eggman121) has done with it.

As far as my relocation plans,  I'm mostly looking to the southwest--the East Valley part of the Phoenix metro area seems to check the most boxes for me.  I've even started firing off applications for jobs down there.  Boise's still in the running, but it's the only spot in the northwest that's on the list right now.

Quote from: SimCity V6 on June 15, 2017, 09:50:18 PM
Sooner than I expected. I'd also like to say the return of the MD also probably coincides with the 10th anniversary (already?), but I guess the reasoning was true. Excellent anyhow, you're definitely hard at work improving your SC4 city.  &apls

Thanks for the kind words, and for bringing up the anniversary, as I wasn't even thinking about it.  It is indeed today, it appears--it's really hard to believe it's been 10 years.  It makes me feel oooooollllllllddddddd. :o :D

Quote from: art128 on June 15, 2017, 10:16:20 PM
Nice to see you firing up the game from time to time. Great update!

Thanks, Arthur--glad you enjoyed it, and it was nice to actually see and do things with Chemeketa for the first time in far too long.

Quote from: Themistokles on June 16, 2017, 12:24:46 AM
That's a welcome return! I imagine you have much to attend to, now that NWM and all the other parts of the NAM has progressed so far, to a large extent thanks to yourself :)

Thanks, and that thought indeed has run through my mind.  Before today, the last time I had updated Tarkusian Cities would have been just before NAM 32 came out, at the end of 2013.  I am definitely looking forward to playing around with all the new toys that have arrived since, plus some of the ones I currently have in my stash of not-yet-released stuff.

Quote from: tomvsotis on June 16, 2017, 08:42:42 AM
Oh awesome! I will look forward to reading/following this :)

Thanks for the welcome back, Tom--hope you enjoy this update as well!

Quote from: EDGE4194 on June 17, 2017, 05:08:49 AM
Alex- I am excited to follow your updates again- I have really missed these! I forgot how awesome your maps were.  :thumbsup:  Glad to hear you are able to find time to actually play the game for a change. ------------Eric

Eric, thanks for the kind words--it's good to be back, and great to see you around! 

Quote from: Nanami on June 17, 2017, 09:17:31 AM
Glad to see you back here with your city! Interesting update about the light rail construction on the downtown. nice work in overall!

Thanks for the warm welcome back, Nanami--glad you enjoyed the update!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Before we resume, here's the map again:

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-lightrail.png?w=175) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-lightrail.png)

When we left off last time, the 9th/10th Street SE couplet was being extended one block, both halves of the couplet planned to cross over both the existing railroad and the new Red Line tracks.  (facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u103-8.jpg)

Work has begun on building the overpasses.  There's also a lot of other things to note here.  Since the plan entails lowering the existing railroad to cross under the new couplet, the C&O line through downtown had to be temporary closed.  Rail Ave SE has also been reconstructed between 9th and 10th Streets, since it no longer has to serve as a de facto part of the couplet. However, Liberty Street SE is being widened to 4 travel lanes between 8th and 11th Streets, in order to fulfill the same purpose, and some structures have been demolished in preparation.  (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u104-1.jpg)

Here's the finished product.  In order to seamlessly integrate with the couplet, the new 4-lane section of Liberty has been given dual left turn lanes onto the extended 9th Street.  9th Street east of Liberty, however, now ends at a cul-de-sac just before the new intersection, in order to better control access and mitigate impact on the residential neighborhood. (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u104-2.jpg)

Here's a little farther north on the line.  In order to mitigate the need for further demolition and new right-of-way (ROW) acquisition along Rail Ave, the portion of the Red Line between Salisbury Way SE (the road that comes in where 6th Street SE would be) and 8th Avenue NE is being run down the median of the road.  Crews have already been at work on some parts of the track north of downtown, so here's where that advance work is going to connect into the median running. (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u104-3.jpg)

Here's the completed Salisbury split, the south end of the median running. You can see the 9th Street overpass at the bottom. (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u104-4.jpg)

And finally, here's the Red Line running underneath Highway 36. (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2017/06/u104-5.jpg)

That does it for this update . . . there will be a Part 6 for the Red Line coming shortly, where we'll see the northern segment under construction.

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Kitsune on June 17, 2017, 07:39:41 PM
It's nice seeing this active again. It was 109 in Phoenix yesterday ... I dunno how anyone from the northwest wont melt in those temperatures  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Ramona Brie on June 17, 2017, 08:51:18 PM
Quote from: Kitsune on June 17, 2017, 07:39:41 PM
It's nice seeing this active again. It was 109 in Phoenix yesterday ... I dunno how anyone from the northwest wont melt in those temperatures  :D

It's only going to get worse...
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on June 18, 2017, 08:50:08 AM
It's great to read you again!! &hlp
But it's unfair that you use the FTL before the release. :'(
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Dantes on June 18, 2017, 11:17:15 AM
I like your mass transit system. It's awesome how this grow!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: eggman121 on June 18, 2017, 05:56:13 PM
Very good work Alex  :thumbsup:

I love the construction phase of your CJ and can't wait for more  :)

It looks like the stuff I see when driving to/from Bendigo or Melbourne. So much activity in terms of fixing up the Rails and Roads in my location.

Keen to see what goodies are around the corner  &apls

-eggman121
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: c.p. on June 18, 2017, 06:13:23 PM
Should be some interesting transportation construction to watch  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Simcoug on June 19, 2017, 07:14:30 AM
Looking good!  I've been playing around in my region simply because of the new RRW FAR options.  I'm still getting the hang of all the dragable patterns, but I'm able to use it now without having to reference the cheat pics every time  :D

That's a total coincidence, because both Phoenix and Boise where the two places I went to Coug games last fall.  Even though they lost, I had a really great time in Boise.  It felt very much like a small college town.  Phoenix was just too big, but Tempe was a nice neighborhood.  I guess I'm becoming less of a big city guy as I get older  $%Grinno$% 
If you end of visiting Boise, check out the Boise Fry Company - they have a crazy variety of fried potatoes (yay idaho).
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 104-06/17/2017-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 5)
Post by: Nanami on June 23, 2017, 03:46:00 AM
Another great update! like those construction sequences!
Well although I find the transit line next to the rail is kinda awkward (if the rail also used as transit line), it kinda works IMO. I mean for example in real life city where I live, there is a plan for east-west metro line literally right next to the existing rail that has commuter/local service technically in same corridor.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: Tarkus on July 17, 2018, 08:52:05 PM
Hi everyone-

Having a small bit of downtime at the moment, I'm going to sneak out a few updates of Tarkusian Cities for the first time in over a year.  In this update, at long last, we will see the completion of the northern segment of the Chemeketa Red Line Light Rail, up to its terminus in the Lila Engel/Starpoint neighborhood. 

First off, long overdue replies:

Quote from: Kitsune on June 17, 2017, 07:39:41 PM
It's nice seeing this active again. It was 109 in Phoenix yesterday ... I dunno how anyone from the northwest wont melt in those temperatures  :D

Thanks, and it's good to be active yet again after another hiatus.  And not surprisingly, Phoenix is still hot. :D  It's 102°F there per my phone at the moment (yes, I have it programmed in there), with what appears to be some residual monsoon-related humidity.  Haven't moved down there (yet), but we've been up in the 90s the past few days here in Oregon, and I've enjoyed it.

Quote from: Tracker on June 17, 2017, 08:51:18 PM
It's only going to get worse...

Seems to also be true a year later--the forecast I'm seeing shows 115°F at the start of next week. 

Quote from: vinlabsc3k on June 18, 2017, 08:50:08 AM
It's great to read you again!! &hlp
But it's unfair that you use the FTL before the release. :'(

Thanks, Vincenzo, and now that the FTLs are out, I hope you're enjoying them!

Quote from: Dantes on June 18, 2017, 11:17:15 AM
I like your mass transit system. It's awesome how this grow!

Thanks for the kind words--hope you enjoy seeing the latest phase, too!

Quote from: eggman121 on June 18, 2017, 05:56:13 PM
Very good work Alex  :thumbsup:

I love the construction phase of your CJ and can't wait for more  :)

It looks like the stuff I see when driving to/from Bendigo or Melbourne. So much activity in terms of fixing up the Rails and Roads in my location.

Keen to see what goodies are around the corner  &apls

-eggman121

Thanks--and at long last, there is more!  Glad this here MD was able to provide a little bit of a slice of home for you. :thumbsup:

Quote from: c.p. on June 18, 2017, 06:13:23 PM
Should be some interesting transportation construction to watch  :thumbsup:

A real delight to see a legend pop in here at Tarkusian Cities--thank you so much for the kind words!

Quote from: Simcoug on June 19, 2017, 07:14:30 AM
Looking good!  I've been playing around in my region simply because of the new RRW FAR options.  I'm still getting the hang of all the dragable patterns, but I'm able to use it now without having to reference the cheat pics every time  :D

That's a total coincidence, because both Phoenix and Boise where the two places I went to Coug games last fall.  Even though they lost, I had a really great time in Boise.  It felt very much like a small college town.  Phoenix was just too big, but Tempe was a nice neighborhood.  I guess I'm becoming less of a big city guy as I get older  $%Grinno$% 
If you end of visiting Boise, check out the Boise Fry Company - they have a crazy variety of fried potatoes (yay idaho).


Thanks, SimCoug!  Having a bit of a hand in development/testing helped quite a bit in handling the RRW FAR stuff, though I'm probably a bit rusty at the moment, since most of my SC4 time the past year has been testing RHW and FTL items in development.

Also, thanks for the input on Boise and Phoenix!  I still haven't made it out to Boise yet, but I've definitely grown quite fond of Tempe.  I did actually make a second trip down to Arizona last September--drove down from Oregon in a rented F-150 and had a blast.  (I also caught the ASU vs. Oregon game while I was there, with insanely good seats--it was amongst a mix of Sun Devils and Ducks, and we had a great time joking around.)  Haven't moved as of yet, but I'm still toying with the idea.  It'll kind of depend on how things go the next couple months.

Quote from: Nanami on June 23, 2017, 03:46:00 AM
Another great update! like those construction sequences!
Well although I find the transit line next to the rail is kinda awkward (if the rail also used as transit line), it kinda works IMO. I mean for example in real life city where I live, there is a plan for east-west metro line literally right next to the existing rail that has commuter/local service technically in same corridor.

Thanks, Nanami--glad you enjoyed the construction sequences!  I ended up taking that particular routing for the light rail line as it seemed to be the most cost-effective/least "destructive" route.

And without further ado, here's Update 105.

First off, here's a map of the area around which this project is centered. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-projectmap.png)

The red line with the squares is the routing that the light rail line will take through the area.  After following the existing heavy rail line north of downtown Chemeketa, the Red Line will curve onto 33rd Avenue NE running down the median until just before the 5-leg roundabout, where 33rd meets McCabe Street, Creek Drive, and Starpoint Drive.

The most challenging bit of this project will be the stretch where the Red Line crosses the rail line and begins its median running portion on 33rd.  Here's the existing conditions at this part of the project (facing west).  (Also, the rail crossing here looks a little funny--this image actually dates back to a very, very early prototype of the RRW plugin.)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-1.jpg)

In order to facilitate through traffic to the residential neighborhood to the west, abutting the Chemeketa Parkway (Highway 215), as well as future work on 33rd, an extension of 34th Avenue was built to the north, connecting up with Bobcat Drive NE.  The project study determined that the most effective method of handling the rail crossover was to trench it below, allowing the Red Line and 33rd Avenue to cross overhead (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-2.jpg)

A little further along with construction (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-3.jpg)

The stretch of 33rd east of Bobcat has now been closed off for reconstruction (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-4.jpg)

This is part way through the reconstruction of the segment from Bobcat to Progress (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-5.jpg)

The stretch up to and beyond Progress Street is now completed, along with some re-development and the construction of a new park-and-ride garage (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-6.jpg)

Preparations are underway for the northern terminus of the Red Line.  The road coming in from the top of this image is 33rd Avenue, and the line will terminate in the graded area behind the office buildings, making a northward jog before the roundabout (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-7.jpg)

Here is the completed terminal station for the Red Line.  A looping roadway and park-and-ride garage were constructed to facilitate access (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-8.jpg)

This is a stretch of 33rd with the median running complete, through the industrial area between Progress and Ashcroft (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-10.jpg)

And finally, here's the stretch right at the Ashcroft and 33rd intersection, just before the terminus (facing east).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/u105-11.jpg)

That does it for this update of Tarkusian Cities, and for the current work on Chemeketa's first major transit project--hope you enjoyed it.  Next up will be some new road work in Chemeketa, and perhaps even a few "lost" updates from other regions, rescued from the "Tarkives". 

-Alex
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: Kitsune on July 18, 2018, 08:27:30 AM
Heres a peak at the actual contruction process ....

(https://swanboatsteve.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/img_8688w.jpg?)

There's a whole bunch of photos here ... Link (https://stevemunro.ca/2018/07/01/broadview-avenue-reconstruction-summer-2018/) . Toronto's streetcar network is always have some kind of track replacement in the summer. The neat thing about the process is everything is built in two layers - a base and the track layer (which is later covered in Concrete). That way when the tracks get replaced (which have a 40 year lifespan) they only have to replace the track vs having to dig everything up. Also, most streetcar networks (including this one in the picture) are mixed traffic, and the track is a bit wider then standard gauge. Some cars have the exact tire width of the track leading to some fun  :D
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: PaPa-J on July 18, 2018, 11:07:04 AM
Very interesting, first time checking into this MD.  I will have to explore the history of it a little.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: dedgren on July 18, 2018, 04:21:08 PM
Well, well.  Very nice.

David
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 18, 2018, 11:39:21 PM
A very pleasant surprise indeed!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: b22rian on October 08, 2019, 04:28:57 AM
sorry for the late reply here..

a couple things i really like about the MD in general..

1) always love the in- progress construction images..

2) but more so the in depth detail in which you explain the aspects of your various projects :)  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 105-07/17/2018-Chemeketa Red Line Pt. 6)
Post by: kbieniu7 on October 08, 2019, 09:50:16 AM
So, I'll also add a comment there ;)

Very nice to follow the construction diary! Interesting how you deal with different "already-existing" situations :) However, this short railway hiding underground beacause of a tramway line... Well, my engineering souls is a bit disturbed...  ???
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: Tarkus on August 03, 2020, 03:11:31 AM
Hi everyone-

Well, after a little over two years away, Tarkusian Cities is finally back in action--and will hopefully stay that way for at least a little while, as I have quite a few projects to show in Chemeketa, some of which are, to quote Johnny Carson, "really big" (and maybe even a "lost update" from a past region). 

Those of you who may have glanced through past updates may also notice that quite a number of them have been at least partially restored, after the Imageshack and Majhost losses wiped out the first 86 updates.  Some past images (particularly maps) are proving to be a bit difficult to re-source in all the files spread across various hard drives (especially as the snazzy map upload services I used to use, like Gmapuploader, are long gone), but I am hoping to have at least 90% of Tarkusian Cities restored.  As of writing, this has been accomplished with the material up to Update 38.

Getting back to this latest update--Update 106 (!)--today, we'll be getting an overview of some of the traffic problems facing Downtown Chemeketa in light of recent development in the city core, particularly the 5th-Murdock-Wallace Corridor (labeled as "A") and the North Division Corridor (labeled as "B"). 

Here's a map of the vicinity (click to enlarge):

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/chemeketa-u106-map1.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/chemeketa-u106-map1.png)

First, we'll begin by looking at some of the conditions with the first target area ("A"), the 5th-Murdock-Wallace Corridor.  Wallace Road is a major north-south arterial, which was formerly part of Highway 221, skirting the west edge of Downtown Chemeketa, the east edge of Downtown Vivien Heights, connecting both with Highway 36.  5th Avenue N/NE is a major east-west arterial through the city center, which curves and turns into the diagonally-routed Murdock Way N, which intersects Wallace Road directly north of Highway 36. 

Given the vast amount of undeveloped waterfront property close to the city center along Murdock, the area has started to see considerable high-rise growth.  And high-rise traffic to go along with it.  The "Murdock Curve", where 5th Ave turns into Murdock Way, routinely endures lengthy backups from the Wallace Rd intersection.

Here's a look at the Murdock Curve and Wallace Road, with that infamous traffic congestion (facing north).  You can see the western portion of Murdock and Wallace Road itself are no slouches in the congestion game, either.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-1.jpg)

Another view, right where Murdock intersects 4th Ave N, right before it curves onto 5th Ave N (facing north).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-2.jpg)

And a westerly view, from 5th Ave N coming onto the Murdock Curve.  As you can see, developers are wasting no time snatching up the waterfront property--even despite the congestion.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-3.jpg)

This is a little closer to the city core--5th Ave N is the Road going from left to right toward the top of the image (facing north), and the lower one is 3rd Ave N.  As you can see here, 5th and the surrounding network are also pretty congested.  The north-south roadways through here are (from left to right) Claxtar St N, Mission St N, and Farmer St N.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-4.jpg)

Here's a section of 5th on the east end of downtown (facing west)--being on the east side of Division St N, this section is actually 5th Ave NE.  This section isn't quite as congested, but it is ultimately being taken into the survey area, because of one of the city's planned solutions for the corridor.  The main crossroad here is Progress St NE.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-6.jpg)

Since 4th Ave N/NE runs directly parallel to 5th from the Murdock Curve all the way to Progress St (and actually, two blocks farther east, to Dell St NE), part of the plan is to convert 4th and 5th in this area into a one-way couplet.  Since 4th is a relatively minor street at the moment, the plans for staging this conversion involve switching 4th to one-way traffic first.

Here's the east end of the couplet, at 4th and Progress (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-8.jpg)

Further west, here's the couplet progress at 4th and Rail (facing west).  (This work was initially done with an ancient version of the RRW, and took place intermittently over years.)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-7.jpg)

One of the challenges with the conversion, however, is the jog that exists on Mission Street N, which, if the conversion is fully realized with its current alignment, would complicate traffic flow on a somewhat important collector street in the area.  As such, the conversion is only being done to the east leg of Mission at the moment, such that the two legs may remain traversable, until realignment can be done.

(facing north)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-5.jpg)

(facing west)
(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-9.jpg)

The other major downtown-area project is the North Division Corridor, named after Division St N.  Division is a primary arterial through Downtown Chemeketa, signed as Highway 215.  Through most of downtown, it forms a couplet with Commerce St NE, but on the north end of the central city, just past 16th Ave N/NE, the two converge into a unified Division (irony fully intended).  This 4-lane stretch of surface arterial eventually turns into the Chemeketa Parkway, a freeway (featured in many past updates) which heads through the northern suburbs, until reaching Highway 15 in the Rankine area of unincorporated Marion County.

Here is the point where the Division/Commerce couplet converges on the north end (facing north).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-10.jpg)

This transitional section of Division, between downtown street and freeway, is extraordinarily congested, in large part due to traffic headed to the industrial areas in the Lila Engel neighborhood just to the north, and has a number of dangerous at-grade intersections before becoming controlled-access. 

Here is one such intersection (22nd Ave N/NE, a western extension of which is recent, and not on the map).  (facing north)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-11.jpg)

Here's the worst offender--the intersection with 24th Ave N/NE, a major collector in this part of town, connecting newly developed waterfront property with established neighborhoods, and some commercial development. 

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u106-12.jpg)

The city and the DOT have ultimately determined that the controlled-access Chemeketa Parkway needs to be extended closer to the Division/Commerce split, converting the 24th/Division intersection into a grade-separated diamond interchange.  This will require demolishing some of the nearby commercial structures, though will largely leave the residential areas in tact.

Next update, we will look at further progress on the extensive work planned for these two vital corridors.  Until then, hope you enjoyed this latest installment of Tarkusian Cities--it's good to be back!

-Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: Wiimeiser on August 04, 2020, 01:09:17 AM
I wonder if the block of 16th, 15th, Division, and Commerce will see an upgrade. Probably not without REW Volleyball pieces, though. On that note, I see Chemeketa Parkway getting the REW treatment in the future... Is that just me?
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: CT14 on August 04, 2020, 12:36:08 PM
Great job portraying those two major traffic landmarks in the area! I recognize them well, and in fact your map could easily be used to navigate the real streets.

There is a beautiful, very old mill structure preserved on the river near that S-curve - worth a look up close if you haven't yet.
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: thundercrack83 on August 07, 2020, 10:53:37 AM
So great to see such wonderful stuff here again, Alex! Especially your map, I've always loved your maps! I'll be looking forward to your next update!
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: mattb325 on August 09, 2020, 12:12:18 AM
Great to see you back at the MD!

Looking forward to see how the transit corridors are updated.   :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 106-08/03/2020-Chemeketa Downtown Project Overview)
Post by: art128 on August 09, 2020, 06:09:36 AM
Some good work over here.  $%#Ninj2

Will be fun to see the changes made to those crowded avenues.  :)
Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 107-08/23/2020-West Chemeketa Reconfig, Part 1)
Post by: Tarkus on August 23, 2020, 01:38:07 AM
Hi everyone-

Thanks for the warm welcome back--I'm here with the next part of the downtown Chemeketa roadwork, focusing on the reconfiguration going on along the 5th Avenue/Murdock Way corridor.  But first, replies:

Wiimeiser: Thanks for the great questions!  I think the most likely changes with the 15th/16th/Division/Commerce block will probably be widening of Division/Commerce, if not 15th/16th (especially since 16th to the east is planned to receive some upgrades).  I don't expect a lot of REW-based changes along the Chemeketa Parkway corridor, however, especially since that's already full-on RHW freeway once one goes north of 24th, and very heavily used RHW at that.

CT14: Thanks for the very kind words on the update, and on the map being able to give you that "sense of place".  That's my big goal with this style of MDing, so the fact that that came across is really good to hear.  If you're referring to that red building, it's not a mill, but it is definitely an interesting historical structure--and while this might be a bit of a spoiler, you'll be glad to hear it survives the upgrade project along Division.

Dustin (thundercrack83): It's great to see you (and Marathon) back around these parts!  With you, me, and Cedric Badsim all updating again, it's like a veritable MD HoF Renaissance! :thumbsup:  Thanks for the kind words on the map, and I hope you find this update to your liking.

Matt (mattb325): Thanks for the kind words--and thanks for all the great BATs (which probably make up about 50% of all the structures in Chemeketa)!   :thumbsup:  I hope you enjoy this latest installment of roadwork.

Arthur (art128):  Thanks for the compliments on the update--indeed, it was rather fun finding the solutions to those overcrowded Avenues, and I suspect some of them will probably get even further work as I develop more NAM stuff.

Here's the map again for the vicinity of the projects we'll be watching.  This update (as well as the next couple, at least) will be focused on Project Area A, involving the 5th Avenue/Murdock Way corridor, from just west of Wallace Road out to Progress Street.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/chemeketa-u106-map1.png) (https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/chemeketa-u106-map1.png)

As mentioned last update, 4th and 5th Avenues N/NE are being converted into a one-way couplet, between the Murdock Curve (which will eventually be dramatically reconfigured) and Progress Street.  One of the challenges described in that update was the offset intersections of Mission Street N, which is a somewhat important collector which crosses under Highway 36 and connects this part of downtown to the university.  Here are the 4th/5th/Mission intersections from another angle (facing east).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-1.jpg)

The section of Mission north of 5th is merely a local street, and not of vital importance, but the portion south (including the offset) is of importance, and would create a rather confusing maze if the 4th/5th couplet conversion were to be completed without realignment.  That, of course, is going to require some demolition, and eventually, redevelopment (some of which you can see is already underway).  Here's a look at the demolition (facing north).  Mission Street has been closed off right before 4th Avenue temporarily as well.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-2.jpg)

A look at further work (facing north):

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-3.jpg)

Mission Street itself is also going to become part of a one-way couplet, being the southbound component.  Its northbound counterpart will be Oregon Street N, while Farmer Street N will remain two-way, sandwiched in the middle.

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-4.jpg)

With the realignment of Mission Street N complete, the stretch of 4th to the west can now be converted to one-way traffic, with a signalized intersection (facing west).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-5.jpg)

Here's where the newly one-way 4th Avenue N intersects Murdock Way N, right along the Murdock Curve (facing north).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-6.jpg)

And now that 4th is a through one-way connection, 5th can be converted to one-way traffic as well.  Here's the Murdock Curve after that conversion--you'll notice that curve isn't as smooth as the Road curve that preceded it, in large part due to the fact that this is actually (plot twist!) a temporary alignment.  This couplet will soon be re-funneled onto a new roadway that will cross over Wallace, serve the Murdock District high rises, and then intersect Murdock Way--all of which will be featured in Update 108. (facing south)

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-7.jpg)

As part of this larger reconfiguration, 1st and 2nd Avenues N will also be extended and converted into a one-way couplet as well, which will tie into Murdock at the south end of the existing Murdock Curve.  Here's a look at part of that corridor--the two Roads intersecting here are 2nd Ave N and Oregon St N (prior to the Oregon St one-way conversion) (facing north).

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-8.jpg)

And here's Oregon Street N at 4th Ave N after conversion (but just prior to 5th Ave's conversion) (facing north):

(https://simtarkus.files.wordpress.com/2020/08/u107-9.jpg)

That does it for this initial phase of one-way conversion in downtown Chemeketa.  We'll be looking at the really heavy-duty aspect of this whole project next update.

-Alex

Title: Re: Tarkusian Cities (Update 107-08/23/2020-West Chemeketa Reconfig, Part 1)
Post by: vinlabsc3k on August 29, 2020, 03:24:32 PM
Wow Alex, it's great to read your posts again &hlp and it's unbelievable that your passion hasn't declined. :crytissue: