January 13, 1999

To Whom It May Concern:

Knesal Engineering has designed several drainage projects for the City of Gulfport, totaling about $2.2 million in construction, over the past six years. We have been very pleased with their performance, including the professionalism and continuity their staff has been able to provide between the design and construction phases.

On the Colonial Estates Drainage Improvements which is nearing completion, Mr. Knesal applied some analysis concepts which had not been presented to us before. Since the main purpose of the project was to correct residential flooding caused by inadequate subdivision drainage installed before the area was annexed, Knesal was able to assure us that the problem could be solved by shedding some light on the reasons a number of areas such as this experience repeated flooding. By analyzing what happens to the stormwater when the rainfall exceeds the commonlyused rainfall factors, inducing flooding of homes, Knesal was able to show us how his design would lessen the risk of flooding and provide an outlet for the floodwaters when the pipes become overloaded.

This subdivision design directed stormwater directly to the location most susceptible to flooding. To improve this, Knesal provided greater flood protection in his design by using a higher rainfall criteria and more efficient inlet designs which reduce the chances of clogging. As mentioned above, the provision of an overflow outlet area which would keep the unlikely high waters below the house elevations gives an even greater assurance that the project will be successful.

We have also worked closely with Knesal Engineering during our review of their plans for the relocation of Hewes Avenue for the Air National Guard in Gulfport. Since the ANG will turn over the project to the City after it is completed, we have a strong interest in the design. We have found Knesal and his staff to be completely responsive to the needs of the community and the City Council in working through a few controversial neighborhood issues.

Please contact myself or Bill Powell, City Engineer, if you would like more information about Knesal Engineering.

Sincerely,

Mr. Derrel Wilson
Public Works Director