integration with phpBB more

I’m looking for some advice on how to properly integrate a phpBB forum with WordPress blogs. Ultimately, I wanting to have the users managed through WordPress as I assume that would provide the flexibility I want. Although, I’m open to feedback if phpBB might offer better user control.

My site will be developed to support 100’s of ‘bloggers’ who will be like low level admin on the forums. I’d like to have some forums restricted to only the blog capable users and others available to anyone on the site. Also, I’m hoping to develop some type of ‘Blogger Profile’ where any of the 100’s of bloggers on the site will be able to manage a profile to describe themselves and provide contact information.

To make it all more complicated, it may also be relevant to note I also plan to use as little of the GUI for wordpress as possible and instead integrate the topics into pages developed by hand.

Any advice on what strategies to use? I’m trying to gather as much info as possible before beginning the project (so as not to need to redo work). I’m basically open to hearing any quick words of wisdom as well as more direct answers.

Thanks!