Building a layout for a public exhibit or museum display? This controller alternately runs two trains in opposite directions around a single track loop with a passing siding.
http://www.azatrax.com/auto-loop-controller.html
This type of layout demonstrates freight railroad operation. Typically, one train consists of loaded hopper cars or gondolas that it takes from Industry A to Industry B. The second train returns similar empty cars from B back to A. The passing siding is usually hidden behind the backdrop.
This circuit requires two rail DC track power. It has non-volatile memory so operations will continue correctly after power is interrupted.
JohnP