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during the EIR analysis, the traffic consultant concluded that a roundabout or five-way intersection would worsen traffic conditions. So the Committee recommended retaining the existing intersection configuration with synchronized traffic signals. The City traffic engineer has indicated that based on additional traffic information, a five-way signal would be feasible and the Committee supports the staff recommendation. With respect to the Parks and Commission recommendations, the Committee concurs with the staff recommendations, although the Committee did recommend that the Veterans' Hall and Museum buildings be redesignated for commercial. It was felt that that was consistent with efforts to provide the maximum degree of economic vitality in the area, but would not take away from the public uses of the buildings. Regarding the downtown public restrooms, she deferred to the Council's discretion. Regarding the extension of Rose Avenue, traffic analysis could take place without causing a deterioration of traffic impacts in the downtown area or the residential area. Lastly, with regard to the proposal for the Niles Canyon Railroad, the Committee spent all its efforts during the first four months of this process to this matter. As a result of those meetings, input was provided to staff, who, with the assistance of the Pleasanton Locomotive Association (PLA), came up with five alternatives. Those alternatives were reviewed as part of the environmental impact report (EIR) and as a result, the Committee determined that because of parking problems, traffic impacts, potential air quality deterioration, and noise nuisances, the train would not be an appropriate land use in the downtown area. Although the Committee did leave open the option for a railroad terminus south of Bemal Avenue. Ms. Ayala asked if the Committee had discussed the Arroyo and emphasis on it in the Ray Street area. She felt a vision was needed for the area. Ms. Hardy said there were discussions about the Arroyo and the desire for a trail system in the area. Ultimately, the conclusion was reached that because the banks were so steep, for safety and liability concerns, and neighborhood desires, it was recommended that the 325 Ray Street site be used for residential. She referred to the recommendations of the Pleasanton Downtown Association and said they were in agreement with the Committee's recommendations with the exception of a recommendation to extend consideration of the train option for an additional 18 months. The Specific Plan Committee has spent an exhaustive amount of time along with staff and it felt the train matter has been studied thoroughly. The Task Force stands by its recommendations. Pamela Stoddard, Executive Director of the Pleasanton Downtown Association (PDA), stated that from all the discussions it is obvious the downtown is a key component to the quality of life in Pleasanton. She appreciated the efforts and commitments of the citizens involved in the Specific Plan process. Last September, the PDA Board of Directors adopted seven action items developed from components of the draft Specific Plan. These items provided direction for revitalization efforts. They are: 1. Acquire the Alameda County Transportation Corridor for parking, improving the entrance to Main Street and the Niles Canyon Train. 2. Improve parking in the commercial area. 3. Create a new southern Main Street gateway to downtown to make it easier for people to find downtown and bring people to the businesses. 4. Maintain and enhance the architecture of downtown. 5. Encourage first floor retail. 6. Improve downtown navigation with signages, kiosks, etc. 7. Increase downtown pedestrian activity. She believed these were all in line with the recommendations for the Specific Plan with the exception of two key points. Pleasanton City Council 8 02/05/02 Minutes