Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast awarded a $16 million task order March 22, to Engineering Design Technologies, Inc., a small business out of Marietta, Georgia, for design and repair to the airfield storm drainage system at Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.

The task order provides for the design and repair to the airfield storm drainage systems, which includes the removal and replacement of storm drain pipe and associated catch basins, manholes, headwalls, grate inlets, and junction boxes.

"This project is critical to flight safety because the infield between the main taxiway and the runway does not drain well, so the standing water attracts birds that can damage aircraft when struck," said Barksdale Air Force Base Civil Engineer Scott Vincent. "This project replaces a drainage system that is decades old and no longer functions properly."

Work is expected to be completed by October 2017.

Small businesses play a vital role in the American economy - employing half of our country's workforce, creating nearly two out of every three new American jobs, and often being the source of the next great American innovation. NAVFAC Southeast strives to meet its goals building on its success by providing contract opportunities to these businesses.

"Small Business is the backbone to our economy," said Mark Brock, NAVFAC Southeast small business deputy. "NAVFAC Southeast is committed to providing small business opportunities. This is a win for the taxpayer, the nation, and the Navy."

Each year NAVFAC establishes target goals for Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, Historically Underutilized Business Zone Small Business, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, and Women-Owned Small Business categories. The maximum practicable utilization of small business concerns is a matter of national interest with both social and economic benefits.

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