Replace Chillers & Cooling System at FCC Tucson
ID: 15BFA025B00000021Type: Presolicitation
Overview

Buyer

JUSTICE, DEPARTMENT OFFEDERAL PRISON SYSTEM / BUREAU OF PRISONSFAOGRAND PRAIRIE, TX, 75051, USA

NAICS

Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors (238220)

PSC

REPAIR OR ALTERATION OF PENAL FACILITIES (Z2FF)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Justice, through the Federal Bureau of Prisons, is soliciting bids for a firm-fixed-price construction contract to replace the chillers and cooling system at the Federal Correctional Complex in Tucson, Arizona. The project involves the complete removal of existing equipment, installation of new high-efficiency centrifugal chillers, and modifications to the cooling tower and associated systems, with a performance period of 364 calendar days from the notice to proceed. This upgrade is crucial for enhancing the facility's operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Interested small businesses must submit their electronic bids by May 20, 2025, and can contact Krista Sua at kxsua@bop.gov for further information.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Krista Sua
    kxsua@bop.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    This document outlines Amendment 0001 to the solicitation identified as 15BFA025B00000021, issued by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The amendment, effective April 28, 2025, specifies that contractors must acknowledge receipt of the amendment to avoid rejection of submitted offers. The primary addition in this amendment is the inclusion of Attachment A, which consists of a sign-in sheet and meeting minutes related to the solicitation. No other changes to the solicitation have been made. The terms and conditions of the original document remain unchanged. This amendment underscores the importance of communication and procedural adherence in the federal contracting process, aiming to streamline bidding and ensure clarity between the government and contractors.
    The document is an amendment to a previous solicitation issued by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, identified as amendment number 0002. The primary purpose of this amendment is to extend the submission deadline for offers by changing the closing date to Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. PST. The document details that electronic bid submissions and the bid opening will take place via a provided link. No additional changes to the solicitation have been made at this time. Contractors are required to acknowledge receipt of the amendment through one of several specified methods to ensure their offers are considered valid. Despite this amendment, all original terms and conditions of the initial solicitation remain unaffected. This document reflects the structured approach to managing bids for government contracts, underlining the procedural requirements that potential contractors must adhere to in order to participate in the bidding process.
    The document is an amendment to solicitation number 15BFA025B00000021, issued by the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The amendment, numbered 0003 and effective from May 9, 2025, includes additional attachments that enhance the initial solicitation. Specifically, these attachments consist of photos (Attachment B), as-built drawings (Attachment C), additional commissioning specifications (Attachment D), and a set of questions and answers (Attachment E). The amendment does not modify any other terms or conditions of the original solicitation beyond the specified additions. Contractors are required to acknowledge receipt of this amendment to ensure their offers are considered, with clear instructions on how to do so. This amendment exemplifies the adjustments made to solicitations throughout the bidding process to clarify specifications and requirements, ensuring potential bidders have the necessary information to submit competitive proposals.
    The pre-bid conference for the project aimed at replacing chillers and cooling systems at the FCC Tucson took place on April 22, 2025. The meeting was led by Contracting Officer A. Jackson, focusing on providing an overview of the project's unique requirements and guidelines under a correctional setting. Key information included the exclusive electronic bid submission process, with a deadline of May 8, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. PST, and the importance of including required documentation and bid guarantees. The project’s estimated cost ranges from $1 million to $5 million, with a completion period of 364 days post-notice to proceed. Contractors must adhere to specific security measures, including no contact with inmates and strict tool accountability within the facility. Additionally, the contract is governed by the Davis Bacon Act for wage compliance, and liquidated damages apply for delays. Contractors were advised to submit any questions in writing before the deadline on April 25, 2025. The meeting concluded with a reminder that all materials and meeting notes will be posted on www.sam.gov for reference, emphasizing the importance of compliance and safety regulations throughout the project's execution.
    The solicitation identifies a project for replacing chillers and the cooling system at the FCC Tucson facility, involving numerous questions and clarifications regarding technical specifications, existing equipment, and project execution. Key concerns include the specifications for electrical systems, structural designs, control system integration, and requirements for hazardous material handling like lead-based paint. Notably, contractors are instructed to utilize copper conductors exclusively and to submit any alternate equipment brands for approval during the bidding phase. The project aims to modernize the facility's cooling infrastructure while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. Additionally, the responses emphasize the importance of coordination with existing systems, management of temporary utilities, and compliance with testing and commissioning requirements following installation. Overall, this document reflects the structured communication typical in government contracting, ensuring that all bidders have the same understanding of project expectations and requirements.
    The document outlines the abstract of offers submitted in response to the solicitation for construction projects to replace chillers and cooling systems at the Federal Correctional Complex in Tucson, referred to as Project 25Z6AC9. Issued on April 8, 2025, and opened on May 20, 2025, it records offers from various contractors. The government estimate for the project is approximately $3.7 million. Ten offers were provided from contractors, including Utility System Solutions and Veterans Construction LLC, with bids ranging from $3.7 million to $7.8 million. Each contractor submitted a 20% bid bond as security and acknowledged three amendments to the solicitation. The document serves as a formal record of responses to the RFP, facilitating the selection process for awarding a construction contract, which demonstrates the federal government's commitment to maintaining and upgrading correctional facility infrastructure. The information is critical for transparency and compliance in federal contracting procedures.
    The document outlines the requirements for a Bid Bond, a type of surety bond used in federal and state contracting processes to ensure bidders fulfill their obligations. It identifies the Principal (the bidder), the Sureties (bond providers), and various conditions that must be met for the bond to remain valid. The bond ensures that if the Principal fails to enter into a contract after winning a bid, the Sureties will cover the costs incurred by the government exceeding the bid price. The instructions highlight the need for proper signing, incorporation details, and conditions for bonding. Additionally, it stipulates that corporate sureties must appear on the Treasury's approved list and that the bond's penal sum may be expressed as a percentage of the bid price. This form is authorized for use only with prior approval, emphasizing its role in supporting government procurement processes by ensuring that contractors are financially accountable and capable of fulfilling their contracts.
    The document is an "Authorization for Release of Information" used by the Federal Bureau of Prisons for conducting criminal history checks. It serves to ensure that individuals seeking entry or service at Bureau facilities undergo thorough background checks for security and employment eligibility. Key points include the requirement for applicants to provide personal details such as name, address, social security number, date of birth, physical characteristics, and citizenship. The applicant must consent to the collection of this information, which can be used for employment fitness assessments, clearance for federal contracts, and ensuring security access. Additionally, the document outlines the implications of non-disclosure, which may result in denial of access or termination of employment. The Spanish version of the form is provided as a template for non-English speakers, ensuring inclusivity. Overall, the document underscores the importance of background checks in maintaining the integrity and safety of federal prison operations.
    The solicitation 15BFA025B00000021 issued by the U.S. Department of Justice outlines the requirements for replacing chillers and cooling systems at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) in Tucson, Arizona. The due date for bid submissions is set for May 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM PST, with mandatory electronic submission via the JEFS APP BOX. This bid is designated as a 100% small business set-aside, requiring all contractors to be registered at SAM.gov and adhering to small business size standards under NAICS code 238220. Bid submission requires completion of several forms, including SF-1442, a bid bond, and verification of past performance through questionnaires. A pre-bid conference is scheduled for April 22, 2025, at the project site, with mandatory criminal history checks for attendees. Bidders must confirm receipt of all submitted files and are encouraged to ensure compliance with all solicitation amendments. The bid opening will be conducted virtually with attendees required to log into a Microsoft Teams meeting. The documentation emphasizes the importance of compliance with legal and ethical standards to determine contractor responsibility before contract awards. This project represents a significant investment in facility infrastructure, aiming to enhance operational efficiency at the FCC Tucson.
    The document is a solicitation for sealed bids from contractors to replace the chillers and cooling system at the Federal Correctional Complex in Tucson, Arizona. Issued by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the solicitation outlines the required materials, labor, and equipment to complete the project according to specific specifications and drawings. Contractors must start work within 10 days of receiving a notice to proceed and complete it within 364 days. Performance and payment bonds are mandatory, with specific guidelines for submission. Additional requirements include insurance coverage, safety protocols at the correctional facility, and pre-construction conferences with officials. Contractors must also provide necessary documentation, such as bid guarantees and schedules of values. The contract will not be offered to those who cannot meet security clearances mandated for personnel entering the facility. This bid process aligns with federal regulations and emphasizes strict compliance and safety measures throughout the construction phase in a high-security environment. This document serves as a clear instructional and regulatory framework for potential contractors, ensuring transparency and competitiveness in the bidding process.
    The document is a wage determination for construction projects in Pima County, Arizona, under the Davis-Bacon Act, requiring compliance with federal minimum wage standards. It outlines the wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction worker classifications, specifying rates for 2025 and referencing two Executive Orders that set minimum wage thresholds: Executive Order 14026, which mandates $17.75 per hour for contracts awarded after January 30, 2022, and Executive Order 13658, which sets a $13.30 per hour rate for contracts awarded between January 1, 2015, and January 29, 2022. It highlights the necessity for contractors to ensure compliance with these rates, including procedures for requesting wage classifications for unlisted work. Furthermore, the document notes the provisions for paid sick leave under Executive Order 13706 and includes information about the appeals process for wage determinations. This determination is crucial for government contractors and businesses engaging in federally funded projects to ensure adherence to labor standards and worker protections in Arizona's construction sector.
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