I like the fact that you got rid of the helix. I've never been a fan of them; I think they can be a lot of trouble. However, they do have their uses, but with my layout size it wouldn't work. It's an 11x11 with an open center, requiring a duck under. I'm not thrilled with that feature, but it was that or not be able to do what I wanted.
I used a Woodland Scenics 3% grade to get to the upper level and it required a little over 11 feet to get to that level. It works for me so I can't complain! I've got some photos around someplace and will post them later.
Photoman475