The VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Seattle, WA, has issued a presolicitation notice for a Firm Fixed Price contract to provide professional Architect/Engineer Services focused on assessing and improving the HVAC system across seven buildings on their campus. The project aims to determine existing deficiencies and propose necessary upgrades, ensuring compliance with VA standards. This is classified as a Total Set-Aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) within an estimated value range of $1,000,000 to $5,000,000.
Interested firms are required to submit qualifications via SF 330 forms by June 16, 2025. The evaluation will prioritize relevant specialized experience, professional qualifications, capacity, past performance, and knowledge of the project locality. Respondents must also demonstrate their commitment to utilizing SDVOSB and other small businesses as subcontractors. The submission must not exceed 85 pages and adhere to criteria set forth in the presolicitation notice. This request indicates the VA's investment in enhancing facility operations to better serve veterans and improve HVAC system efficiency and resilience.
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is initiating a comprehensive study to assess and improve the HVAC systems across seven buildings at its Seattle campus. The contracted Architect/Engineer (A/E) will evaluate the current HVAC infrastructure, identifying deficiencies and providing recommendations for necessary repairs, replacements, or upgrades to meet VA standards and applicable codes. Key focus areas include analyzing air handling systems for factors like capacity and condition, assessing compliance with environmental and filtration requirements, and performing detailed calculations related to cooling and heating loads.
The study will also address existing challenges such as the lack of redundancy in the HVAC systems, potential impacts on patient care during construction, and limitations in available workspace. Deliverables will include a phased plan for implementation, detailed cost estimates, and potential energy efficiency strategies. The assessment period lasts for six months, with three major review points for the VA to evaluate progress. This project underscores the VA's commitment to enhancing facility infrastructure while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
The document outlines the limitations on subcontracting for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) and Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs) under VA contracts as per 38 U.S.C. 8127. For contracts involving services, the contractor must ensure that no more than 50% of the government payment is subcontracted to non-certified firms, while general construction allows up to 85% and special trades up to 75%, with certain exclusions for materials. Offerors must certify compliance, recognizing the serious consequences of false certifications, including fines and potential prosecution. Furthermore, the VA reserves the right to request documentation to verify compliance and non-compliance could lead to remedial actions. The certification procedure is mandatory for contract consideration, ensuring accountability in the use of subcontractors. This stipulation underscores the government's commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses while maintaining integrity in procurement processes.