Are these still the main players and if so, who would you recommend?

These company owners likely know what players would be interested in having a look.  

@Nicholas Baughman You won't know if they're squattors or owners or renters, and depending on whether they engage with you, you may not find out for a loooonngg time.I have no experience with buying occupied bldgs with non-cooperative tenants, but I know enough of the details in our area to know it's a specialty you'll need to be good at or hire someone who is. 

Has anyone been working for one of the large players and switched to KWC?

dont really knowand Blazers affect the real estate market like 0 %  .. other than the few players that buy maybe 5 or 6 multi million dollar homes.. 

An idea I had, following on Rayland's (Seattle)'s idea was to sell the project, with approved plans ready to pull for construction for maybe $50k over cost, and ask for a % at the backend, with the understanding that I would stay engaged in the entire process for learning purposes, while minimizing risk during construction phase.

When I say "big builders" I don't mean the publics--I mean the local guys who were the dominant players in the market either pre fire, or pre-market-collapse that have come out of retirement. 

I’ve been on BP for a little while but have been a listener/learner, now it’s time to engage.

Keep in mind that many markets have players you don't see.PE/HFs/Institutional Money is investing in a core asset base. 

(Even though it is definitely possible) The best thing is to educate, save, and also reach out to people in your target market so you can get your name out there and learn who the players are.