W912QR26BA008 - Construction of TMAC at NSWC - Crane, IN

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Louisville District, seeks a Class Justification and Approval (J&A) for Other than Full and Open Competition. This J&A allows contracting officers to use "brand name or equal" references in solicitations for construction contracts, specifically for interior color and finish selections from FY22 through FY26. This approach is deemed necessary because it is impractical to convey precise interior finish requirements, such as specific paint shades or carpet patterns, through mere descriptions. Instead, referencing a manufacturer's proprietary product establishes a clear aesthetic and quality standard, which can then be matched by equivalent products from other manufacturers, thereby maintaining competition. This method ensures design integrity, coordination of structural interior design (SID), and compliance with Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) 3-120-10, which requires fully designed SIDs. Market research indicates industry support for this approach, confirming it does not unfairly limit competition. The J&A aligns with FAR Clause 52.236-5, which permits

Solicitation W912QR26BA008 for the construction of the TMAC facility at NSWC Crane, IN, has been amended. Key changes include extending the proposal submission deadline to June 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET. The amendment also clarifies that the project is subject to the statutory cost limitations of 10 U.S.C. § 2805 and revises site visit information in Section 00 73 00. An organized site visit is scheduled for May 26, 2026, at 8:00 AM EST, requiring specific identification and a visitor pass obtained at least two business days prior. Attendees should also request a camera pass five business days in advance if they intend to take photographs. The document details requirements for "brand name or equal" product submissions, commencement and completion of work within 924 calendar days, and provides information regarding physical data and weather conditions at the site. This amendment ensures all potential contractors are aware of updated requirements and logistics for the TMAC project.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) requests a Class Justification and Approval (J&A) for Other than Full and Open Competition to allow brand name or equal references in construction contract solicitations. This is necessary for effectively communicating interior color and finish selections in the Basis of Design (BOD) for projects from FY22 through FY26, with an estimated cost. The justification is based on the difficulty of describing specific aesthetic requirements, such as paint shades, without proprietary references. While brand names are used to convey design intent, competition is not restricted as contractors can propose equivalent products that meet performance and visual specifications. This approach is an industry standard for design-bid-build contracts, ensuring design control and maximizing competition for the overall project, which is approximately 3.5% of the total construction cost. Market research confirmed industry support, and a Notice of Intent to Sole Source received no responses. The J&A ensures coordinated and aesthetically cohesive government facilities.

The government solicitation W912QR26BA008 is an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for the design, build, and construction of a new Trusted Microelectronics Assurance Center (TMAC) facility at Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane, Indiana. The project is a 100% small business set-aside with an estimated construction cost between $5,000,000 and $10,000,000. The scope includes the construction of a 6,830 SF primary facility with options to add 965 SF (Option A) and an additional 1,365 SF (Option B), along with supporting facilities, owner costs, and fixed furniture and equipment (FF&E) options. Performance is required within 924 calendar days after receiving notice to proceed. Bids are due by June 15, 2026, at 1:00 PM local time and must be submitted electronically through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module. A site visit is scheduled for May 19, 2026, at 8:00 AM ET. Wage rates for various trades in Daviess and Martin Counties, Indiana, are provided, along with instructions for submitting inquiries via ProjNet.