If it would help, I can PM info for FTP access to the site so you could take a look, I'd really like to get some resolution on this, it's been down for almost 3 days.

There is no .htaccess in that directory and no, it's not hidden.

I tried re-uploading that dir... no go. I also verified that the only files in the instal directory are those that should be.

Your Portal Version: 1.0.6
Your phpBB Type: Standard phpBB3
MODs installed: Yes
Your knowledge: Advanced Knowledge
Boardlink: http://lotro.thebom.net

What have you done before the problem was there?
Working installation, disabled board then started install per instructions.

What have ...