Don,
I think you might be correct. I've been saying all along around here (Silver Plume) that something didn't seem right about this whole thing. Right from the first I've been wondering if CHS really intended to operate the Loop or if the whole thing was merely a Red Herring. That would explain a lot of the ridiculous things that have come up in the RFP, Budget, etc.
Besides the CDOT ROW (which already encroaches on the Loop ROW, but is not used as yet,) CHS is sitting on some very valuable property.
News item: Vail Resort's corporation is reportedly negotiating to purchase the Loveland Ski Resort, as the present owner/operator has terminal cancer. As there is a lack of vacant usable land at Loveland for the new condos, ski shops, night clubs, employee housing, etc., land in the Silver Plume/Georgetown area will soon become premium as they are the closest localities. Loveland is the closest and easist ski area to get to from Denver. Any connection here? Wish I knew.
Skip
GLR