My optimism is based on a combination of observing Arnie Klann's tenacity/character, the earlier success of the Isuzi plant, which was the real prototype plant for the concentrated acid hydrolysis sucrose(and ethanol) technology, and finally, seeing how serious the Chinese are to use this technology to solve multiple needs in China.
Even though reference has been made of Fulton being a prototype plant, there is every indication it will be used to sell its 19 mgpy ethanol production. I recall Bluefire reported earlier they had tentative agreements with both suppliers( lumber companies, probably), and customers for the ethanol end-product.
I think they are still working on additional required financing needed to begin operations on a commercial basis. The Chinese are probably cooperating in that process.