DATE:
January 28, 2026
07
TO:
Board of Supervisors
SUBJECT
Title
GILLESPIE FIELD AIRPORT- ESTABLISH APPROPRIATIONS IN THE AIRPORT ENTERPRISE FUND AND ADVERTISE AND AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE GILLESPIE FIELD RUNWAY 17-35 REHABILITATION PROJECT AND RELATED CEQA EXEMPTION (DISTRICT: 2)
Body
OVERVIEW
This action is requesting the County of San Diego Board of Supervisors (Board) approval to fund and initiate construction for the rehabilitation of Runway 17-35 at Gillespie Field, a critical general aviation and public safety County airport in East County. The $8.4 million project will extend runway life, improve safety, and support sustainable infrastructure. Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026 and to be completed by winter 2026-27. Gillespie Field is a County-owned and operated general aviation airport located within the cities of El Cajon and Santee. Established in 1942 as a Marine Corps facility and transferred to County ownership in 1952, the airport serves as a key gateway for San Diego's East County, supporting corporate and general aviation, flight training, maintenance, and aircraft storage. It also functions as a regional hub for emergency services and public safety operations, housing Sheriff's aerial units, SDG&E firefighting helicopters, and medical evacuation services.
To maintain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding eligibility under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), Gillespie Field updates its Airport Pavement Management Program (APMP) every three years. The 2025 APMP identified Runway 17-35, last rehabilitated in 2006, is due for pavement rehabilitation based on age and condition. Maintaining runway conditions is critical to ensuring the safety of pilots, passengers, and ground personnel, as compromised surfaces can lead to accidents, equipment damage, and operational disruptions. The project will mill and overlay the existing runway asphalt, improve connector taxiways and shoulders, restripe pavement, and...
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