Two items:
1. I just got confirmation that the Terrain Navigator, USGS Map CDs are on their way to Doug. I know that they will be helpful for this project. A big thank-you to my co-workers at Maptech.
2. I really don't see this as a 'competition' to the other lines in the area - nor do I really think that the ultimate goal of a complete restoration of the missing 100 miles would be completed in the next 5-10 yrs.
Instead, I believe the focus of this group should be (at first) to ensure that a restoration COULD be done in the future. Making sure highways, bike paths, and developments stay off the ROW; stabilization of existing bridges, tunnels, and other structures; preliminary discussions with potential partners (Indian Casinos, the Airport); etc.
[Begin Soap Box]
I appreciate the comments about 'too much to be done already in Chama'. But the fact of the matter is, for me, I'm on the East Coast, and do not have the resources to fly out to CO/NM to pick up a paintbrush. I do, however, have a computer and access to every USGS map in current circulation. I can't help the Friends, but my circumstances allow me to help this group. Doug is another example, whose experience can help see this project done, but lives thousands of miles away. I wonder how many other "Armchair Railfans" exist that are in similar situations. By banding together, we might be able to get this done.
[end soap box]
-Ed Lecuyer