Responding to good ideas in Ed's article

1. A first class coach that "stays on the rails" (unlike the Hinman) is an excellent idea. I would add to the suggestion: scrap the fixed bench seating concept and substitute a "sofa chair" (i.e. an overstuffed chair) concept. The chairs would not be fixed to the floor but could be repositioned to a facing desired by the occupant. This type of seating was used on the coach I rode in 1979 on the WP&Y. The WP&Y chairs were not sofa chairs, but more spartan in appearance yet comfortable. You lose seating capacity with this seating format, but you increase passenger comfort by 10 or 100 fold. I think the market would support the necessary price.
2. The extended season is a terrific concept. I think Chama could be sold on the concept if a bus trip linking the Antonito terminus to Chama is included in the plan. Chama could still host people in their motels, but the passenger loading would take place in Antonito. A great way to extend the work year for some trainmen, and support personnel. Can't wait to see how you heat the coaches!