"Would it be possible that any type of mining activity (drilling, digging, access roads, etc.) might prevent that ideal location. So is it possible the staked claims are simply ensuring there aren't any road bumps along the way to developing a rail line along this route? "

I would think that even if a mineral resource was found under a completed rail/road right of way, that it would not take long to decide to move it a mile left or right to facilitate the mine construction. In some south american countries they have moved entire towns.

K