Supervisor Sonny Dhaliwal sees the $28.7 million San Joaquin County is investing in the Stockton Metro Airport as a way to lift the “whole overall regional economy.”

The supervisor who represents Manteca, Lathrop, Northwest Stockton, and the Delta region views the airport as a potential “gold mine” when it comes to economic development.

The board gave approval Tuesday to the project that is aimed at increasing the availability of commercial flights and snaring more cargo service  at airport  8 miles from downtown Manteca.

The airport is so close to Manteca that it’s flight approach corridors from the east overlap with the city’s general plan area that includes land likely to be annexed to the city and developed.

The investment comes as the county has already commissioned the second part of a study on how to make Stockton Metro a shipping point for fresh farm products to markets all over the world.

California fresh fruit and  vegetables can fetch premium prices in international markets.

As such, Stockton Metro could open up new markets not just to area agricultural concerns but to those throughout the Northern San Joaquin Valley.

If it happens, Stockton would be the only airport in the United States equipped for such operations.

The $28.7 million investment includes:

*Constructing a new five gate, at grade hold room to accommodate 400 peak hours passengers.

*Remodel parts of the baggage claim area, Transportation Security Administration area, and ticket counter portions of the existing airport terminal.

*Add new baggage conveyors, provide space for rental car companies, and update festoons.

*Conduct a siting study for a new FAA operated and county owned air traffic control tower.

*Acquire an existing commercial hanger to update.

*Restore and redesign the west ramp to accommodate new hanger construction.

*Develop a new pilot center and self-fueling facility.

*Construct 38 units of aircraft storage hangers, 10 aircraft sunshade awnings, an aircraft rescue and firefighting awning, and replacement of a commercial hanger.

Stockton already serves multiple Amazon Prime cargo flights daily.

It also has passenger service to Phoenix, Denver, and Las Vegas.

Dhaliwal noted the recent addition of Allegiant Airline service to Denver is a major development  for residents of the region.

"Denver is a major hub that can connect you to many places,” Dhaliwal said. “You don’t have to drive to San Francisco or Sacramento.”

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com