well yes. I agree with all of this. No one is disputing the usefulness of the huts but you're missing one point and that is the fact that the price to stay at the huts is too high.
If AMC cut the price by half they would still be making a good profit. The 'unfortunate' fact that the huts are in such close proximity to Boston encourages AMC to set the price to match the income power of Boston clientèle. And they still sell out! However, for the other mortals, the blue collar workers or the people who have normal jobs in Maine or New Hampshire the price for a family of 4 (mom,pop, 2 kids) to do a hut to hut Presi Traverse (3 nights) is cost prohibitive. Around $1500 if You are an AMC Member and more if You are not.