CAJON AIR CENTER DEVELOPMENT

Upcoming Business Opportunity

The County of San Diego (County), owner and operator of Gillespie Field (Airport or SEE), will soon invite qualified firms with proven land‑development experience to propose the construction of aeronautical-use facilities on the Cajon Air Center property. The County is currently completing its due diligence and background research to ensure prospective developers receive the information needed to prepare well‑informed development proposals.

Overview

The Airport is strategically situated just south of Highway 52 and west of Highway 67, in the northeast portion of the City of El Cajon. Covering more than 750 acres, SEE features three runways, a terminal, an air traffic control tower, and a range of facilities that support various industrial and aviation‑related businesses. The Airport is a significant driver of economic activity, generating an estimated $403 million in direct economic impact and supporting more than 3,100 jobs. SEE is committed to operating safely, sustainably, and with strong environmental stewardship.

The Cajon Air Center (CAC) encompasses approximately 70 acres, including 15 acres designated for aviation infrastructure and 55 acres intended for private business development. From 1961 to 2004, the site was home to the Cajon Speedway and other recreational facilities, but in 2003, the Federal Aviation Administration directed the County to convert the property to aeronautical use. The County is currently preparing a Request for Proposals to support private development, of aviation-related facilities, on a portion of the property in the northern part of the site. Based on environmental review, the remaining acreage will become available for development only after the nearby Bradley Avenue Interchange is completed, which is anticipated in 2029.