Herb,
you do raise valid points, however there are a number of options here. As it was said before the Jicarilla Indians in Dulce were considering having the line rebuilt to get people to their Casino. Which in theory would make a small profit during certain parts of the year. However no one says the line would have to be operated most of the year and possibly only during the busy tourist months.
Money off those tourists is only part of the big picture. By having the line rebuilt you would also leave open the possiblity for transfer of equipment between the D$S and the C&TS. If you look further ahead, imagine the profit which could be made of a historical San Juan trip? Imagine a more upscale train from Alamosa to Silverton just like the original San Juan, with stops in Chama and Durango, like a weekend trip. Something similar to the American Orient Express.
Also think of the economy that could thrive from a railroad backbone? Indian "Lunch House" in Gato, Recreation in Arboles, Casino stops along the way.
I would love to see the line rebuilt, I would also love to see what was left from the railroad atleast saved if the line isn't rebuilt. Remember the Sumpter Valley was just a dream someone had, take a look at how far it made it from being a dream...
-=Andrew=-