Chino Airport set for major expansion as San Bernardino County opens land

Key Takeaways

• San Bernardino County opens 300 acres at Chino Airport for phased development via RFQ process.
• Projects allow aeronautical and non-aeronautical uses; FAA approval required for non-aeronautical plans.
• Expansion aims to create jobs, attract businesses, improve infrastructure; no construction start date set.

Chino Airport Expansion and Development: An In-Depth Analytical Review

Purpose and Scope

This analysis examines the ongoing expansion and development plans for Chino Airport in California, focusing on the recent strategic initiative by San Bernardino County to open 300 acres of airport land for new projects. The review covers the purpose of the expansion, the methodology behind the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process, key findings, stakeholder perspectives, data trends, and the broader implications for economic development, community impact, and regulatory compliance. The analysis also addresses limitations and provides evidence-based conclusions to guide stakeholders, including developers, local residents, and policymakers.

Methodology

This review draws on official statements, quantitative data, and policy documents released by San Bernardino County, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and other stakeholders. It synthesizes information from the latest public announcements, interviews with key officials, and historical records of Chino Airport. The analysis follows a step-by-step approach:

• Outlining the RFQ process and its requirements
• Presenting quantitative data on land use and airport operations
• Comparing historical and current development efforts
• Evaluating stakeholder perspectives and regulatory frameworks
• Identifying trends and patterns in airport expansion and regional economic growth

Key Findings

• San Bernardino County has launched a major expansion at Chino Airport, opening 300 acres for development.
• The RFQ process is active, seeking proposals for projects covering 21 to 151 acres in the first phase.
• Both aeronautical (aviation-related) and non-aeronautical (commercial, retail, light industrial) uses are encouraged, with FAA approval required for non-aeronautical projects.
• The expansion is expected to create jobs, attract new businesses, and improve local infrastructure, positioning Chino Airport as a regional economic engine.
• Environmental review and regulatory approvals will shape the timeline, with no construction dates set as of May 2025.
• Community engagement and buffer developments are planned to address noise and visual impacts for nearby residents.

Data Presentation and Visual Descriptions

To help readers understand the scope and impact of the Chino Airport expansion, the following key data points and visual descriptions are provided:

Visual Description:
Imagine a large aerial map of Chino Airport, with the 300-acre development zone highlighted in a distinct color. The area is divided into smaller parcels, ranging from 21 to 151 acres, each marked for potential projects. Surrounding the airport are residential neighborhoods, commercial zones, and open land, illustrating the need for buffer developments to protect local communities from airport-related impacts.

Comparisons, Trends, and Patterns

Historical Context vs. Current Initiative

Chino Airport has a long history, dating back to World War II when it served as the Cal-Aero Flight Academy, training over 10,000 pilots. In recent decades, the airport has supported recreational flying, pilot training, firefighting, rescue missions, and aviation museums. However, previous attempts to attract large-scale development did not succeed, often due to a lack of structured planning or clear incentives for developers.

The current initiative marks a significant shift. By launching a formal RFQ process and actively marketing the opportunity through JLL (Jones Lang LaSalle), San Bernardino County is taking a more proactive and transparent approach. This structured process is designed to attract qualified developers with innovative ideas, ensuring that new projects align with both airport and community needs.

Economic and Operational Trends

– Airport Operations: Chino Airport recorded over 200,000 operations in 2024, with projections to exceed 209,400 in 2025. This upward trend reflects growing demand for aviation services in the Inland Empire, especially as other regional airports have closed or reduced operations.
– Land Use Patterns: The decision to allow both aeronautical and non-aeronautical uses represents a departure from the airport’s traditional focus. This flexibility is expected to attract a wider range of businesses, from aviation companies to retail and light industrial firms.
– Community Impact: The inclusion of buffer developments—such as retail or service businesses along the airport’s perimeter—demonstrates a trend toward balancing economic growth with quality of life for local residents.

Stakeholder Perspectives

San Bernardino County Officials

County leaders are enthusiastic about the expansion. Brett J. Godown, Director of the Department of Airports, describes the vision as making Chino Airport “the crown jewel in the communities it serves.” Terry Thompson, who oversees the RFQ process, emphasizes the importance of community involvement and creative development ideas. Supervisor Curt Hagman highlights the potential for job creation, business attraction, and infrastructure improvements.

City of Chino

While not directly involved in the master plan, the City of Chino is kept informed and hopes for outcomes that benefit local residents. Warren Morelion, the city’s director of development services, has expressed optimism about mutually beneficial results.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The FAA plays a critical regulatory role, especially for non-aeronautical uses of airport land. All such projects require FAA approval to ensure they do not interfere with aviation safety or airport operations.

Developers and Commercial Real Estate Firms

Interest from developers is high, with JLL actively marketing the opportunity. The county reports that past inquiries from developers did not lead to projects, but the current structured RFQ process is expected to yield better results.

Community Members

Community engagement is a central part of the process. The county plans to involve residents throughout, with a focus on developments that serve as community assets and provide buffers against airport impacts.

Policy Implications and Practical Effects

Economic Development

The expansion is expected to:

• Create jobs in construction, aviation, retail, and light industry
• Attract new businesses to the region, boosting the local economy
• Enhance infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and public services

County officials see the airport as more than just a general aviation facility; they envision it as a regional economic engine that can drive growth for years to come.

Community Impact

To address concerns about noise and visual impacts, the plan includes buffer developments along the airport’s perimeter. These could take the form of retail stores, service businesses, or landscaped areas that shield residential neighborhoods from airport activity.

Land Use and Regulatory Compliance

Both aeronautical and non-aeronautical uses are being considered. Non-aeronautical projects must receive FAA approval, ensuring that they do not compromise airport safety or operations. All projects will also undergo environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and must comply with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards.

Step-by-Step Procedures: RFQ and Development Process

1. RFQ Issuance:
   San Bernardino County issues a Request for Qualifications, inviting developers to submit their credentials and conceptual plans for parcels ranging from 21 to 151 acres.

2. Proposal Submission:
   Interested developers submit their qualifications and initial project concepts, outlining how their proposals align with county goals and community needs.

3. Evaluation:
   The county reviews submissions, selects qualified developers, and negotiates lease terms for the selected parcels.

4. Approval:
   Final development agreements require approval from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. For non-aeronautical uses, the FAA must also grant approval.

5. Environmental Review:
   All projects must comply with CEQA, EPA, and FAA regulations. This step includes public comment periods and detailed environmental impact assessments.

6. Construction:
   Once all approvals are in place, construction can begin. No specific construction dates have been set as of May 2025.

Evidence-Based Conclusions

• The Chino Airport expansion is a well-structured, multi-phase initiative with strong support from county officials and high interest from developers.
• The RFQ process ensures transparency and encourages innovative proposals that balance economic growth with community needs.
• Regulatory requirements, including FAA approval and environmental review, add complexity but also safeguard public interests.
• The expansion is likely to have a positive economic impact, creating jobs and attracting new businesses, while buffer developments and community engagement aim to minimize negative effects on local residents.

Limitations

• Timeline Uncertainty: The project is still in the planning and solicitation phase. Construction timelines depend on the outcome of the RFQ process, regulatory approvals, and environmental reviews.
• Regulatory Complexity: FAA, CEQA, and EPA requirements can lengthen the approval process and may limit certain types of development.
• Community Concerns: While buffer developments are planned, some residents may still have concerns about noise, traffic, or changes to the local landscape.
• Market Risks: Economic conditions and developer interest could affect the pace and scope of development.

Future Outlook

• Growth Projections: Airport operations are expected to continue rising, with annual operations projected to exceed 209,400 in 2025.
• Development Timeline: The timeline for construction will become clearer after the RFQ process and regulatory reviews are completed.
• Community Involvement: Ongoing engagement with residents will help shape the final development plans and ensure that projects serve both airport and community interests.
• Potential Uses: The county encourages a mix of aviation-related and commercial/retail/light industrial developments, with innovative concepts welcomed.

Official Contact Information and Resources

For more information on the RFQ process, interested parties can contact:

• San Bernardino County Real Estate Services Department:
  Contact: Lyle Ballard
  Email: [email protected]

• San Bernardino County Department of Airports:
  Phone: 888.818.8988
  Address: 777 E. Rialto Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415

• Official Websites:

  • San Bernardino County
  • Chino Airport (contact via county site or Department of Airports)

For details on environmental review requirements, visit the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) official page.

Summary Table: Key Facts

Conclusion and Practical Guidance

The Chino Airport expansion represents a major opportunity for economic growth and community development in San Bernardino County. The structured RFQ process, combined with strong county leadership and regulatory oversight, sets the stage for successful, balanced development. Developers interested in participating should review the RFQ requirements and prepare proposals that address both economic and community needs. Local residents are encouraged to stay engaged and provide feedback as the process moves forward.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the Chino Airport project stands out as a model for how regional airports can adapt to changing economic and community demands while maintaining a strong focus on safety, environmental stewardship, and public involvement.

For further updates and official documents, stakeholders should refer to the San Bernardino County Department of Airports and the Real Estate Services Department. The ongoing RFQ process and future development phases will shape the airport’s role as a regional hub for aviation, business, and community life for years to come.

Learn Today

Request for Qualifications (RFQ) → A formal process inviting developers to submit credentials and project ideas for evaluation.
Aeronautical Uses → Activities related directly to aviation, such as hangars, runways, and flight operations.
Non-Aeronautical Uses → Commercial, retail, or industrial uses on airport land not directly related to flying activities.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) → U.S. government agency regulating all aspects of civil aviation and airport safety.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) → State law requiring environmental impact reviews for major development projects in California.

This Article in a Nutshell

Chino Airport’s 300-acre expansion offers a unique economic growth chance. The RFQ invites developers to propose projects balancing aviation uses with community benefits. Strong county leadership and regulatory oversight ensure safety, innovation, and environmental compliance. This initiative highlights Chino’s evolving role as a regional hub for business and aviation.
— By VisaVerge.com