CHAMA, N.M. & ANTONITO, Colo. — Marvin Casias has been named president of the Cumbres Toltec Operating, LLC, the organization that manages the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad on a daily basis, according to a statement from the railroad. Additionally, Steven Butler has been named operations manager, and Alysia Martinez as business manager.

All three are longtime railroad employees who have played key roles in the Cumbres & Toltec’s operations. Their promotions reflect the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission’s confidence in the experienced team already in place and its commitment to building on that foundation, the railroad says. The new appointments are the result of restructuring the railroad’s organizational chart to reflect current operational needs. The railroad’s general manager position has been eliminated. Casias will lead the organization with support from Butler and Martinez.

Butler’s new role as operations manager is also not a one-for-one personnel change, the statement indicates.

It was also announced that Eric Mason, C&TS CEO, will be leaving the railroad. No explanation was given for his departure. While Casias will have the same duties as Mason, the position will now be titled as president. The commission and leadership team expressed their appreciation for Mason’s service, insight, energy, and dedication during his tenure.

“One of the greatest strengths of the Cumbres & Toltec has always been its people,” said Mark Graybill, chair of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission. “Marvin, Steven, and Alysia have dedicated years of service to this railroad, and their leadership will help ensure we continue delivering the authentic steam railroad experience our passengers have come to expect.”

Also announced was the appointment of Ken Bitten, a veteran railroad executive, to the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission. The appointment was made by Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, according to a statement from the railroad. Bitten takes the seat of Scott Gibbs, whose term concluded on June 30.

Bitten brings more than four decades of railroad experience, including leadership roles in operations, mechanical services, passenger rail, administration and finance. Most recently, he has operated Classic Rail Cars in Alamosa, Colo. The company specializes in the maintenance, restoration, and management of historic railroad equipment.

“I have been aware of the importance of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad since it was purchased by Colorado and New Mexico in 1970,” Bitten says. “It is a scenic and historic treasure, and I look forward to helping preserve and develop it. Helping new generations of people experience and enjoy its delights is a big task and I am excited to be part of the team doing this important work.”

The commission recognized Gibbs, who joined the commission in 2021 and later served as president of the railroad’s operating company during the organization’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2021 Osier Dining Hall fire.

“It has been a rewarding experience to serve this remarkable railroad,” said Gibbs. “I am proud of what our employees, volunteers, management team and supporters have accomplished together, and I am confident the railroad’s future is bright.”

Was there ever a decision or settlement reached in that case?

July 27 2026: Partial MOTION to Dismiss by Cumbres & Toltec Operating, LLC. (Jones, Christopher)

August 3, 2026: NOTICE by Laurel Keenan-Coniglio re78 Partial MOTION to Dismiss Stipulated Extension of Time to File Responsive Pleading (Wertheim, Jerry)