The U.S. Department of State issued a Sources Sought notice for a Design-Build project involving a new CAA Addition to the embassy compound in Nairobi, Kenya. This notice seeks information on qualified businesses, particularly targeting small, women-owned, HUBZone, 8(a), and service-disabled veteran-owned enterprises, under NAICS code 236220. The estimated construction cost ranges from $340 to $400 million. The project involves creating a standalone CAA building with multiple office levels and other facilities on an existing embassy site. Requirements for interested firms include providing a capability statement detailing business information, experience with similar projects, bonding capacity, and socioeconomic classification. No compensation will be provided for the responses, which are used solely for research in preparation for future solicitations. The deadline for submissions is July 12, 2024, with questions directed to specified contacts within the Department of State. This process is part of the government’s strategy to ensure accessible opportunities for diverse businesses while enhancing embassy infrastructure.
The U.S. Department of State, through its Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations, is soliciting pre-qualification submissions for a design-build contract for a new Controlled Access Area (CAA) Annex at the Embassy Compound in Nairobi, Kenya. The proposed project, estimated to cost between $175 and $250 million, involves constructing a six-level building with offices, meeting rooms, and support spaces, alongside site and security improvements.
The solicitation process consists of two phases: Phase I involves pre-qualification of contractors based on prior experience with similar large-scale projects; and Phase II will request proposals from pre-qualified contractors. Eligible firms must demonstrate successful completion of relevant construction contracts valued at over $100 million and possess or be able to obtain necessary security clearances.
All submissions must be electronically provided by December 31, 2024, with specific instructions for submission outlined in the document. Furthermore, the selected contractor will be expected to maintain rigorous compliance with security and operational standards throughout the project's lifecycle. This initiative underscores the U.S. government's commitment to maintaining secure and functional diplomatic facilities overseas.
The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations has announced a pre-solicitation notice for a Design-Build Construction contract for a new Controlled Access Area (CAA) Annex at the Embassy Compound in Nairobi, Kenya. The project will entail constructing a six-level office building, totaling approximately 12,500 GSM, and includes site and security enhancements. The estimated construction cost ranges from $175 million to $250 million.
The solicitation process consists of two phases: Phase I involves the pre-qualification of interested contractors, which will be assessed based on criteria to be detailed later on SAM.gov. Phase II will invite pre-qualified contractors to submit formal proposals following a site visit. Key requirements for eligible contractors include obtaining a Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) Secret Facility Clearance and compliance with various design and engineering specifications.
This initiative underscores the U.S. commitment to developing secure and functional diplomatic facilities and will proceed with a projected timeline for the Phase I solicitation release around November 18, 2024. Compliance with security protocols and facility directives is essential for participation in the contract award process.
This guide outlines the certifications required for organizations seeking pre-qualification under the Omnibus Diplomatic Security and Antiterrorism Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-399). It details the steps necessary for satisfactory submission, including the completion of seven specific certifications and necessary documentation. Key requirements include demonstrating U.S. incorporation or legal organization, a principal place of business in the U.S., and having been operational as such for over two years. Entities must also show prior relevant project experience within the U.S. or at U.S. diplomatic establishments abroad.
Additionally, organizations must employ U.S. citizens in significant roles, validate their technical and financial capabilities to carry out contracts, and clarify their joint venture status if applicable. The document emphasizes the importance of meeting these criteria, as they determine eligibility for projects requiring national security adherence and regulatory compliance.
The guidance serves to streamline the process for prospective offerors, ensuring they understand federal preferences for U.S.-based organizations in diplomatic security-related contracts. Overall, it aims to foster transparency, compliance, and efficiency in procurement for government projects.
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has issued a reminder to construction, design, and engineering contractors regarding the strict prohibition of public information release related to DOS projects, including any design, construction, or associated services. Written approval from the Contracting Officer is mandatory prior to dissemination of project information, including photographs or any other media, which applies to prime contractors and all subcontractors. All documents produced during these projects are considered government property and must be safeguarded against public access. Companies should review their communications and remove any unapproved content from public domains. Future publication requests regarding DOS projects must be submitted to OBOPublicRelease@state.gov for prior approval. This directive serves to ensure the security and confidentiality of sensitive information tied to DOS diplomatic projects and holds all involved parties accountable for maintaining discretion throughout the project duration and beyond.
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) issued a reminder to contractors involved with Overseas Building Operations (OBO) regarding air and sea transportation requirements. Contractors must adhere to the Federal Acquisition Regulation clauses 52.247-63 and 52.247-64, which mandate the preference for U.S.-flag air carriers and privately owned U.S.-flag commercial vessels for all DOS projects that involve international transportation of personnel and cargo. If U.S.-flag carriers are unavailable, contractors must provide a “Statement of Unavailability” with their payment requests. Additionally, for ocean cargo, contractors must submit a bill of lading to the Contracting Officer Representative and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) within specified timeframes.
Furthermore, all government-impelled ocean cargo, regardless of the vessel's flag, must be reported to MARAD. If no U.S.-flag ocean services are found, MARAD is available to assist. The document emphasizes compliance with these transportation requirements to ensure the use of U.S. carriers and vessels, outlining processes for reporting and documentation. Contractors should direct any inquiries to the designated authorities. This communication underlines the importance of supporting U.S. maritime and air transportation interests within government contracts.