Manteca is leaving no idea unexplored when it comes to maximizing the impact of Measure Q funds wedded with growth fees.

One possibility includes options focusing on what is arguably one of the more iconic buildings in Manteca that is now vastly under used when it comes to space — the downtown Post Office.

Mayor Gary Singh has floated the idea with Congressman Josh Harder to explore possible options for Mediterranean-style building given the footprint the Postal Service needs to deliver services continues to shrink.

Although it won’t happen “tomorrow”, Singh and others clearly see the day when the Postal Service — which has shifted mail sorting for carriers to the Stockton area hub on Arch Road — no longer can justify retaining such a large space with associated maintenance as well as heating and cooling costs.

Singh noted the expansive two-story structure, that includes a large basement, may be a good option for a community center, small performing arts venue, and/or space for recreation program and offices.

It has a parking lot in the rear that could be wedded to the adjoining Wilson Park for community events — and even locating a farmers market off street.

It is also across the street from the library and Library Park as well as within a block of the Center Street tennis courts, the community garden, and the downtown city annex on Sycamore Avenue.

As an added bonus, it can be integrated into Manteca’s go-to street for community celebrations — the 100 block of South Maple Avenue — that is literally at the front door of the Post Office.

The building would make it easier for the community services staff to stage Maple Avenue events.

Singh noted the Post Office is centrally located in Manteca and is in a prominent location in downtown.

Another option the city is exploring is a community center along with a performing arts venue and a new library on municipal land on the northern half of the 8 acre South Main Street parcel  south of Wetmore Street where the new police headquarters will break ground in 2026.

“The Post Office could have a lot of potential,” said Singh who has been working to find ways to provide space to expand community and culture offerings in Manteca.

The Postal Service currently has an annex location on Industrial Park Drive within a mile of the downtown Post Office. Mail is no longer sorted there either before carriers tackle their routes.

The original footprint of the downtown Post Office was built in 1939 at a cost of $80,000.

Officials predicted the building would accommodate Manteca’s needs for a hundred years before any addition would be needed.

The missed the mark by 72 years.

A 7,000 square foot addition plus a 3,000 square-foot basement was added in 1967.

Ironically, the predictions made in 1939  may still end up being prophetic.

The original space now would more than handle Manteca’s brick and mortar postage needs in 2039, assuming the Postal Service hasn’t completely rethought the need to engage customers in person by then.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com