CCMIN061896 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Snyder said the original concept was to go as far as Neal Street and beyond because it seemed natural to stop opposite the park. More recently, because of the additional expense and potential problems in crossing Bernal, that has been the logical stopping place, however going four or five more blocks downtown would be better. Ed Churlca, 722 Main Street, representing the Pleasanton Railroad Association, referred to the map of the Downtown Improvement District. He also indicated there are 66 events per year in the downtown area and described a few of them. If the Wain comes to downtown 26 times a year, that will not require closing Main Street and will bring attention to the area. He feels this is such a natural thing to happen, he cannot understand why it has taken so long. Mr. Mohr indicated that Mr. Churlca has always said this project would be funded with private funds, yet that is not included in the ballot language. Mr. Churka said private funds means not to use City funding. That does not preclude applying for federal or state funds. Ms. Michelotti indicated it was her understanding that this train was not to be a "transport" train and that people in Pleasanton could board the train here and ride to Sunol. Those people boarding at Sunol could ride here, but could not get off the Wain and stay for a couple of hours. Mr. Churlca stated that in order to do that the Wain must be defined as a *common carrier". There is a fixed schedule, fixed rates, and various regulations to be adhered to. When the train comes to town, the engine has to be switched, which takes time. He felt people could get off at that time and no one will be watching to see if they get back on. Jack Hovingh, 4250 Muirwood Drive, wanted the ballot language to say the Wain will run only two times a month, no at-grade crossings, the FRA standards for a common carrier should apply to this operation, and that there will be no public funds for this hobby train. He recognizes that some people believe that as long as City funds are not used, the residents of Pleasanton are not direc~y paying for the operation. However, any time federal or state funds are used, it comes from the people of Pleasanton. He felt public funds are better used helping the needy and poor. He also felt that the Pleasanton Railroad Association should pay for any costs to place this measure on the ballot. Ms. Dennis supported the proposed ballot language because it says to downtown, not into it, which means Bernal Avenue, and it is an advisory measure. It seems a long way off before the train will be brought any further. That would be a separate project in itself. She appreciated Mr. Hovingh's remarks, however transportation grant funds cannot be used for clinics or other uses. The PLA has been operating without federal or state money and has done well with only contributions from riders. She feels the general language of the proposed measure is appropriate considering how long it will take to complete the environmental process and to determine a specific project. 06/18/96 -6-