DBWI: The Rio Grande abandons its narrow gauge

As well all know, the D&RGW considered abandoning its iconic narrow gauge in the 1930s. However, wartime bough it a new lease of life. Then soon after the natural gas boom in northern New Mexico and southern Colorado led to the line's upgrading, and its potential as a tourist railroad being fully realized. Thanks to that fact, it is now difficult to imagine the idea of cities like Chama, NM not being on the map.

But what if the D&RG did abandon its narrow gauge. How would it affect the growth of communities?

OOC: Special thanks to @TheMann and @Lucas for helping me come up with some ideas that evolved into me posting this DBWI.
 
Top