DMK Associates was originally retained by Paradise Development to prepare drainage improvements for Paradise Plaza, located on the Northwest corner of Bee Ridge Road and US 41 in the City of Sarasota, FL. But what started out as simple drainage improvements soon turned into a more involved, multi-disciplined effort by DMK staff.

The original scope involved adding several hundred feet of pipe and inlets to relieve drainage problems within the existing parking lot for the center. All existing information was gathered by DMK Survey personnel for creation of a base map used in final design. DMK Water Resources staff then designed the proposed system that would eventually tie to an existing system along US 41 in Sarasota – one of the busiest roads in Southwest Florida. All this had to be accomplished without disturbing the daily operation of the center.

During the drainage improvement design, it came to the Owners attention that the site was not in compliance with ADA regulations. DMK staff was able to immediately review the site for deficiencies and make recommendations for ADA compliance. Parking improvements, handicap access ramps and pavement striping plans were prepared and processed through the City of Sarasota.

In addition, DMK was asked by the Owner to design upgrades to the water and sewer service to the center. Once again, DMK Water resources staff reviewed the existing conditions and formulated a plan that met the Owner’s goals. Asbestos cement water mains were replaced with PVC mains through a permitting process with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Existing water and sewer services were updated and rerouted to avoid conflicts with other existing utilities, again without disturbing the daily operation of the center.

By providing complete in-house services for the Client involving drainage and utility design, planning services and permitting, DMK demonstrated its ability to provide a complete range of services to the development community of Southwest Florida.