Experience New York's Harlem Line, realistically represented in a 3D virtual world. Rule the rails with a fast express train or stop at stations and help to convey commuters along the route.
Accurately representing 40 miles of the former NYC empire; the Trainz Classics Harlem Line project is a carefully researched and convincing railroad simulation experience.
The Harlem Line edition takes advantage features newly added to the ever evolving Trainz platform to realistically model Metro North's operations over the busy line.
Familiar with generating wealth in the transport industry, entrepreneur Cornelius Vanderbilt noticed the prosperity that railroads were enjoying and began turning his attention to the new possibilities. Vanderbilt purchased the New York and Harlem Railroad in 1860's along with the Hudson River Railroad, and they became the cornerstone of the later New York Central Railroad.
Grand Central Station opened in 1871 as a consolidated terminus for the rail baron's numerous services to and from the north; also providing trackage to the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad.
The Harlem line's earliest tracks in the area south of 42nd St. became isolated from the greater railroad system. Horsecar and later streetcar services continued on the southern section under lease to various operators until the mid 1930's when all the rail vehicles were replaced by buses.
In 1910 as part of the Grand Central Terminal electrification project, Third Rail electrification was installed on the Harlem Division as far as White Plains.
Reliable diesel-electric traction was introduced to the line in 1952; and the locomotive servicing facilities at Brewster became superfluous.
The Trainz Classics route is focused mainly on commuter services over 20 stations along the Harlem Line. Beginning at the historic Bronxville station and stretching to Southeast, the route traverses a variety of landscapes from urban in the south to rural in the north.
The Railcar Depot and Marshalling Yards at North White Plains are home to much of Metro North's permanent way equipment; and a variety of trains can be seen there. A smaller yard and depot exist to serve the interchange point at Southeast where electric services conclude.
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