If a main is within yard limits, the Yardmaster is allowed to utilize the main for switching moves, hostler moves, etc, without requesting permission from the dispatcher. Within Yard Limits, movements on the main only need to clear the main for first class trains. For second, third and extras, the yard crew is allowed to block the main. Any second, third or extra train coming through on the main must limit their speed through the yard limits to yard speed. Yard speed is defined as the maximum speed that the train can be going but still be able to stop in half of the sight distance. This means if two trains are going in opposite directions, they can stop before they have a head-on.
The Yardmaster pretty much becomes the person in charge of the mainline within Yard Limits. For Salida, The mainline panel could be mounted in the center and the Yardmaster runs the panel. Whoever is running the SG switcher runs the SG panel. Whoever is operating the NG switcher runs the NG panel. The hostler runs the hostler/service track panel. The Barrel crew runs the Barrel panel.
When any of these operators want to use the mainline, they ask the Yardmaster, who will be standing within 10 feet of them. No radios needed. Yardmaster looks at the schedule, notes if there are no 1st Class trains due to arrive soon, and gives permission for a limited period of time. Or, the Yardmaster makes them hold until the 1st Class train passes.
At Gunnison, the Yardmaster will operate the mainline panel as per the description
given above. At Crested Butte, the same will be true when a Yardmaster is present.
The Monarch branch will necessarily require the main during all switching operations
and remain available to the active crew.
