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<br />a parking problem could be a real blessing instead of a detriment. He figured that while <br />people were waiting to board the train they would be inclined to go shopping and visit the <br />nearby cafes. He noted that the cafe in Sunol has begun to close on the Sundays that the <br />trains run because business is so heavy that the owner cannot handle it and prefers to close; <br />he did not think that would create a problem in downtown Pleasanton. He added that he is <br />not anticipating that the Coffee Roast Express could accommodate the numbers of people <br />who would be coming into town because of the train. <br /> <br />Mr. Churka explained the PRA does not intend to ask the City for funds, but plans to seek <br />Federal and State grants, as well as private donations. Cost of laying two and one-half miles <br />of track, along with grade crossings and signals from the south side of Spring Street in <br />Pleasanton to Verona Road was estimated to be about $720,000. <br /> <br />In response to Chairman Mahern's question, Mr. Churka wished to stress that this would be <br />considered an "excursion" train, not a "transportation" train. He anticipated the round trip <br />ride would take about 40 minutes and could begin either in Pleasanton or Sunol. He <br />indicated that there is a limited amount of time (perhaps 15 minutes) in which a return trip <br />must be made in order to be allowed "excursion" status by the PUC, Mr. Churka noted that <br />the train system would be capable of accommodating about 250 people. . <br /> <br />Commissioner Hovingh expressed concern about safety issues if "excursion" status is <br />allowed. Mr. Churka assured him that the PRA would meet all current codes as far as safety <br />is concerned. <br /> <br />Commissioner Michelotti asked Mr. Churka if the PRA would eventually look into tieing up <br />with a "wine" train that is currently being discussed in Livermore and in connection with <br />BART. Mr. Churka indicated this is a possibility and has been somewhat discussed. <br /> <br />Commissioner Horan asked Mr. Churka to expand on the possibility of getting grant funds. <br />Mr. Churka gave a broad overview of a similar project in Galveston, Texas whereby grant <br />monies were obtained. He said Mr. Trapani would elaborate on this matter. <br /> <br />Russ Trapani, 4430 Pleasanton Avenue, stated he has been a resident for about three and <br />one-half years. He addressed the noise issue and said he presently lives about 75 yards <br />from the railroad track. He continued to say that he has a four year old who is able to sleep <br />with no problem when the train goes through, so noise should not be a real issue. <br /> <br />Mr. Trapani told the Commission that he had gotten involved with a ship-rebuilding project <br />in Galveston, Texas that literally turned that economically depressed city into a once-again <br />thriving city. He felt the return of historical trains could do the same for downtown <br />Pleasanton. He stated he loves the historical flavor of Pleasanton and feels the plan outlined <br />has great merit and potential. He noted that the Chamber of Commerce has a book detailing <br />the rebuilding of the ship at Galveston if they are interested in seeing it. He said many <br />citizens in Pleasanton have been most supportive of the proposed project and think it has <br />great histoncal value. <br /> <br />Minutes Planning commission <br />July 10, 1991 <br /> <br />Page 5 <br /> <br />- <br />