Amazon is preparing to restart its drone delivery service in San Joaquin County, with the next phase of operations expected to launch from a new location in Tracy.

The planned expansion will give residents another option for receiving certain eligible products without relying on traditional delivery vehicles. The drone program is part of Amazon’s broader effort to develop faster, automated delivery systems for communities where the service can operate safely.

The new Tracy location is expected to serve as the launch point for deliveries across parts of the county. Before flights resume, the company and local authorities must ensure that the required operational and safety procedures are in place.

Drone deliveries are designed for relatively small packages and can potentially reduce the time required to transport eligible orders from a distribution facility to a customer’s home. The technology also offers a way to experiment with alternatives to conventional last-mile delivery.

The return of the program is attracting attention in San Joaquin County because it represents a growing use of commercial drones in everyday services. Residents will be able to see whether the technology can provide a reliable supplement to existing delivery networks.

Officials and residents are also likely to monitor how the flights affect neighborhoods, including questions involving noise, privacy and the safe operation of drones over populated areas.

Amazon’s renewed activity in Tracy could eventually provide a model for expanding drone deliveries to additional communities if the service proves practical and safe.

The company is expected to provide further information about the launch and the areas that will initially qualify for drone delivery as operations move forward.