The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is preparing to release a solicitation for a Total Small Business Set-Aside contract related to plumbing, heating, and air conditioning. This procurement aims to replace aged Air Handling Units (AHUs) in Building 226 on NIST's 578-acre Gaithersburg, MD campus. The AHUs, original to the building since 1965, pose safety risks due to chronic water leaks and inefficiency, impacting research operations. The project includes replacing AHUs 12, 13, and 14, cleaning ducts, and designing energy-efficient attic lighting while managing hazardous materials. The expected cost is between $1 million and $5 million, with a performance period of 730 days post-award. The contract will be awarded based on a tradeoff process, evaluating factors such as technical approach and past performance. The solicitation is anticipated to be released around January 6, 2025, and interested parties can find details on the System for Award Management (SAM) website, which will only host electronic versions of the solicitation. This pre-solicitation is meant to inform the industry and is not an invitation for proposals.
The document outlines a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the replacement of Air Handling Units (AHUs) 12, 13, and 14 at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The AHUs, dating back to 1965, require replacement due to chronic water leaks and inefficiency, posing safety and research disruptions. The project entails constructing per specified drawings, duct cleaning, and incorporating energy-efficient attic lighting, where the contractor is responsible for all hazardous material handling.
Key requirements include a contract performance period of 730 days, beginning ten calendar days post-award with completion timelines of 180 days for demolition and installation. Security protocols demand contractor personnel to obtain necessary badges, with specific processing times outlined.
Compliance with various federal regulations is required, including bonding, performance inspections, and strict adherence to safety protocols. The RFP emphasizes the importance of high-standard construction practices, adequate insurance coverage, and timely submission of required documents, reflecting the government's commitment to efficient operational standards and safety in public infrastructure projects. Overall, this solicitation exemplifies structured procurement processes within government contracting aimed at achieving effective facility management and safety enhancements.