Let's go WAY back, Fred. The original plan was to run down the former SP right-of-way to the big former Pleasanton depot. The one where the guy had a couple of freight cars on display. Can't remember his name--think it was "ED".. With proper grade crossing protection and the County of Alameda's approval, it should be safe to cross Bernal Avenue to get there.
The City Council of Pleansanton (at the time) was greatly behind the idea-- however, something changed since then-- mainly the nimbys in the Senior Housing near the track that they cried and moaned about would create too much noise.
The "other advantage" to Pleasanton merchants and the city itself is the big Alameda County Fair which is near Bernal Avenue. "County Fair Trains" from Niles and BART to the Fair would take4 a lot of traffic off of Hiways 84 and 680.
When the time is right, PLA needs to set an appointment to meet with the City Council-- have a couple of County reps with them, and make a VERY professional presentation to all concerned parties at that meeting. There has to be a way to address legitamate concerns of those in attendance. Just don't show up and say "HI"-- we're PLA and we want to run Steam trains!!"
THAT will NOT get you very far. You have to show how it could improve their "community".
Sales tax base, traffic, noise, whatever...
If I still lived in the Bay Area, I'd volunteer to lead the committee to address these issues, since I'm a former city and county commissioner.

Cheers.

KRK