Using planimetric and obstruction data to create a clear path forward that incorporates aviation industry and regional economy changes

Modesto City-County Airport (MOD) Airport Master Plan Update

When the Modesto City-County Airport (MOD) needed to update its 12-year-old master plan and airport layout plan (ALP), the City of Modesto engaged us to help create a strategy to meet the evolving needs of the facility. Our work included recommendations for airport improvements to satisfy aviation demand and comply with changes to current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety and design requirements.

Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive obstruction analysis in a broader airspace study around the airport. The obstruction analysis data was processed through the FAA Airport Geographic Information System and uploaded into the FAA Airport Data and Information Portal. Consistent with the FAA master plan study format, we prepared an inventory of the airport’s infrastructure, forecasted future activity, assessed facility needs, and prepared alternatives to fulfill those needs. These alternatives, which included a partial redesign of the runway, taxiway, and apron configurations, were vetted by the City and FAA—resulting in an ALP, master plan, and capital improvement plan that both organizations could adopt. These provide the City and FAA with the airport’s future configuration and supporting documentation.

This updated strategy for airport improvements will help the City continue to meet MOD’s evolving needs.