ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag Penning and Gating Alterations, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Manhattan, Kansas

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0001) to solicitation 1232SA26Q0450 modifies the solicitation as follows:

• Due Date Extension: The due time and date for receipt of offers has been extended to 1:00 p.m. Central Time on May 21, 2026.
• Drawings and Pictures: Updated drawings and pictures were sent directly to attendees of the site showing due to security requirements. Acknowledging this amendment signifies receipt of these updated materials.
• SF 1442 Update: The SF 1442 has been updated and replaces the previous version. Offerors must use the updated SF 1442 for their submissions. An offer guarantee is required.
• Drawing Updates: Specific updates to the drawings include:
  • KEYED NOTE 44 added to drawings A-112, A-113, and A-114.
  • This note was added to specific details within drawings 1/A-112, 2/A-112, 3/A-112, 1/A-113, 1/A-114, and 2/A-114.
  • KTR needs to verify location prior to execution.
  • No other changes were made to the drawings.

This amendment also includes responses to vendor questions, clarifying several aspects of the project:

• Resinous Flooring: Included only if surfaces are damaged during work.

• Personnel: Superintendent, SSHO, and QC Manager need to be 3 separate individuals (refer to specification).

• Period of Performance Extension: Possible at the Contracting Officer's discretion if material/equipment lead times are confirmed.

• Site Visit: Attendees should refer to the attached sign-in sheet.

• Phasing/Heating/Cooling: No phasing requirements; no temporary heating/cooling requirements (building occupancy status is 'No').

• Work Start: Contractors must provide a construction schedule.

• Third-Party Inspections: Refer to the specification.

• Containment: Refer to the specification for partitioning, dust containment, and negative air machines.

• Containment Area Protocol: 5:1 escort ratio required; Insider Threat and Situational Awareness training for escorts. No additional biosecurity protocols or PPE requirements at this time.

• Ceiling Height: Refer to revised Keyed Note 8 for sealing requirements.

• Equipment: Refer to drawings and specifications for existing equipment; contractor provides all construction equipment.

• Work Hours: Refer to SOW; can be increased to 0600-1800 HRS if requested at kick-off.

• ABSL-3/4 Zones: Advance scheduling required (see response to question 6).

• Safety/Biosecurity: Refer to response to question 9.

• Cleaning/Disinfection: Not required at this time; nonporous hand tools can be decontaminated once containment protocols are implemented.

• Mockup Approval: Mockup in Room B4.128 must be fully installed and approved before fabrication for B4.129 begins; it is best to have B4.128 fully approved prior to working on B4.129.

• Performance Criteria: Refer to the specification.

• Stainless Steel Grade: Minimum grade is 304.

• Unistrut Adequacy: Existing Unistrut will support new waterers.

• Quick-Disconnect Fittings: Match existing or provide an equivalent.

• Hose Reel Manufacturer/Model: Refer to specifications and stipulated salient features.

• Welds: Must be continuous to minimize crevasses for contamination and maximize cleanability.

• Buy American: Yes, see FAR 52.225-9.

• Mockup Testing: Dry-fit verification.

• As-Built Drawings: Refer to the specification.

• Manufacturer/Installer Experience: Manufacturer must have at least 10 years of experience in manufacturing animal penning systems; manufacturer information is required with submittal submissions.

• Site Visit Items: Revised drawings have been provided by the CO.

• Drawing Clarity: A request has been submitted to the DOR to remove callouts of existing items to remain.

• Mockup Requirements: Specific items requiring mockups are detailed on sheets A-205, A-208, A-210, and A-506. Smaller components may require separate samples.

• Mockup Quantity: One primary plus two revisions based on functional testing.

• Mockup Review Period: One week.

• Dolly/Trucking Device: To be designed for end-user use; provide two dollies, a third may be requested.

• Rolling Wheels Material: White, non-marring, phenolic or nylon.

• Disposal of Removed Items: Transport salvaged materials to the offsite warehouse.

• Containment Shower Policies: Not in effect at this time; may change once containment protocols are implemented.

• Decontamination Policy: Refer to response to question 16.

• Pipe/Gate Modifications: 100% visual inspection required for welds.

• Animal Chutes: Center squeeze section is bi-directional; headgate chutes are not required to be bi-directional.

• Storage Connex: A construction trailer/connex will be allowed, maximum length of 30 feet.

• Waterer Removal/Replacement: Clarifications provided regarding Base Bid vs. Bid Option 02 for waterer replacement in various room types (A2, Type C, AG.147.1, etc.). Keyed Note #18 is generally associated with Bid Option 02 for removal.

• Shutoff Valves: Valve body is to be stainless steel.

• Wash Down Stations: Two wash down stations in ASBL-4 Necropsy B4.142 are included in the base scope, and existing isolation valves are to be replaced.

• Interstitial Plumbing Valves: Contractor shall coordinate through the COR to LOTO/isolate valves.

• Animal Drinking Waterer Hoses: Provide commercial washdown EPDM hose rated up to 200 Deg F, 300 PSI, with 304 stainless steel connections.

• Hose Reel Hoses: Provide Solid Rubber hose stop; provide commercial washdown EPDM hose rated up to 200 Deg F, 300 PSI, with 304 stainless steel connections.

• Penning/Gating Contractor: Will handle modifications to tool/utility racks and water hose guards.

• Site-Specific Training: Minimum of two (2) hours of site-specific training provided by USDA personnel; additional training may be required for biocontainment entry.

• Normal Working Hours: Clarification on scheduled working hours (refer to question 13).

• Solicitation due date and time.

• Drawings and associated notes.

• SF 1442 form.

• Various specification sections and plan notes related to waterers, containment, materials, and equipment.

• Offerors must acknowledge receipt of this amendment.

• Proposals must be submitted using the updated SF 1442.

• The deadline for submission has been extended.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for "ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag Penning and Gating Alterations" at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. The project involves penning and gating alterations.

• Base work includes ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag Penning Modifications.

• Option Item 1: Removal of existing gate latch mechanisms in ABSL-3 lab areas and dirty corridors, and installation of a chain-based latching method. This option does not apply to ABSL-4 lab spaces.

• Option Item 2: Removal of existing waterers in ABSL-3 lab areas, and installation of float-based waterers. This option does not apply to ABSL-4 lab spaces.

• Award Type: Firm Fixed-Price contract.

• Period of Performance: 365 days after Notice to Proceed.

• Anticipated Magnitude: Between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• Submission Deadline: April 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central.

• Submission Method: Email to erin.riffey@usda.gov with subject line "RFQ 1232SA26Q0450".

• Evaluation Criteria: Lowest Priced Technically Acceptable (LPTA).

• Mandatory Site Visit: April 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility. Registration is required by April 22, 2026.

• Offerors must submit a fully executed SF 1442, acknowledge all amendments, and provide a bid bond (SF 24) and two to three relevant references.

• Competition is set aside for Total Small Business.

• Applicable NAICS code: 236220 Commercial and Institutional Building Construction.

• Small business size standard: $45M.

• Prospective offerors must be registered with Systems for Awards Management (SAM) at the time of solicitation closing.

• Specifications and Drawings are not posted online; interested contractors must send a completed NonDisclosure Agreement to Erin Riffey (erin.riffey@usda.gov) and cc: Kraig Buffington (kraig.buffington@usda.gov) to receive them.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To support mission accomplishments by improving animal movement throughout the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) and implementing additional safety measures for animal care staff.

Modifying existing penning and gating within the ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag areas of the NBAF. This work is located on the first floor, covering approximately 66,000 SF of the 574,000 SF main building. The facility will be occupied during this project.

• Contractor must protect the work, site, and existing property. Any damage must be repaired at the contractor's expense.

• Work areas must be free of construction debris daily.

• Contractor must provide a project-specific Quality Control Plan.

• The contract duration is 365 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

• Location: National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF), 1980 Denison Ave., Manhattan, KS.

• Site Security Access: Requires a current Real ID compliant, government-issued photo identification. All personnel must pass a fitness suitability determination. Contractor identification badges must be worn at all times on site. Limited contractor vehicles allowed near work areas; personal vehicles must be parked in the main lot.

• Work Hours: Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday-Friday, excluding Government holidays. Work outside regular hours requires prior security approval.

• Personnel: Contractor employees must be US citizens and complete a Tier 2 background investigation. Site-specific training (minimum 2 hours) is required for access.

• Digital Media: Prohibited from using personal devices for photography/videography. All digital media must be captured using Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE) with prior written authorization and a permit.

• Compliance: Adherence to NBAF policies, SOPs, and guidelines is mandatory. Failure to comply can result in removal from the site and contract.

• Submittals: Includes construction submittals, emergency contact list, Site Specific Safety Plan, Accident Prevention Plan, Environmental Protection requirements, and a Quality Control Plan.

• Deliverables: Emergency contact list, construction submittals on the submittal register.

• Government Furnished: 14 calendar days for submittal review/approval, 7 calendar days for information-only submittals.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides essential information and instructions for contractors planning to attend a mandatory site visit for Solicitation No: 1232SA26Q0450 – Penning and Gating Alterations at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, KS. Attendance at this site visit is mandatory to provide an offer.

• Site Visit Details:

  • Date: Wednesday, April 29
  • Time: 1:00 pm Central (US)
  • Location: National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (Visitor Center), 1980 DENISON AVENUE, MANHATTAN KS 66502
  • Site Visit Sponsor: Kraig Buffington (kraig.buffington@usda.gov)

• Registration Process (Two Parts):

  • Part 1: Complete the "NBAF Visitor Application.pdf" form. Note encryption instructions on the form. Email the completed form to kraig.buffington@usda.gov, with a cc to erin.riffey@usda.gov.
  • Part 2: Complete an online 1-year background check at redtailsecurity.com/corp/NBAF. This is at no cost to the individual. Ensure the US Citizenship Assessment is completed.

• Registration Deadline: Wednesday, April 22. Late submissions will not be accepted.

• Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Contractors must bring their own PPE, including: hard hat, yellow safety vest, gloves, safety glasses, mask, closed-toed shoes (not sneakers), shoe covers, and long pants.

This document is critical for any bidder intending to respond to the solicitation. It outlines the mandatory site visit, the detailed registration procedures including deadlines and required forms, and the necessary PPE for entry. Failure to comply with these instructions will prevent participation in the site visit and, consequently, the ability to submit an offer.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for "ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag Penning and Gating Alterations" at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. The project involves penning and gating alterations.

• Base work includes "ABSL-3Ag and ABSL-4Ag Penning Modifications."

• Option Item 1: Removal of existing gate latch mechanisms in ABSL-3 lab areas and dirty corridors, and installation of a chain-based latching method. This option does not apply to ABSL-4 lab spaces.

• Option Item 2: Removal of existing waterers in ABSL-3 lab areas and installation of float-based waterers. This option does not apply to ABSL-4 lab spaces.

• Anticipated magnitude of the project is between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000.

• Contract type is anticipated to be Firm Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: 365 days after Notice to Proceed.

• Offers are due by 1300 local time on 05/15/2026.

• Proposals will be evaluated using a Lowest Priced Technically Acceptable (LPTA) source selection process.

• A mandatory site visit is scheduled for April 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Central at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility. Registration is required by April 22, 2026.

• Submissions must be emailed to erin.riffey@usda.gov.

• A Bid Bond is required, not less than 20 percent of the proposed price, not to exceed $300,000.

• Offerors must provide two to three recent and relevant references.

• This acquisition is set aside for Total Small Business.

• Applicable NAICS code is 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction) with a small business size standard of $45M.

• Prospective offerors must be registered with Systems for Awards Management (SAM) at the time of solicitation closing.

• Specifications and Drawings are not posted publicly; interested contractors must submit a completed NonDisclosure Agreement to Erin Riffey to receive them.

• The period of performance will not begin until all required submittals are approved by the COR.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a General Decision for wage determination, specifically for Building Construction Projects in Riley County, Kansas. It outlines the prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits that must be paid to various laborers and mechanics employed on covered federal or federally funded construction projects.

• General Decision Number: KS20260056
• Publication Date: 01/02/2026
• Construction Type: Building
• County: Riley County, Kansas
• Scope: Building Construction Projects (excluding single-family homes or apartments up to and including 4 stories).
• Classifications and Rates: Lists specific job classifications (e.g., TILE SETTER, BRICKLAYER, ELECTRICIAN, LABORER, OPERATOR) with their corresponding hourly wage rates and fringe benefit amounts.
• Executive Orders: Notes applicability of Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage).

Bidders must review these wage rates to accurately estimate labor costs for their proposals. Failure to comply with these prevailing wage requirements can lead to contract non-compliance and penalties. This document is crucial for understanding the labor cost component of any construction bid in the specified area.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) required for potential contractors involved with the "1232SA26Q0450 Penning and Gating" opportunity at the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) in Manhattan, Kansas. It outlines the terms under which the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS) will make non-public, confidential, and proprietary documents available to the Contractor.

• Defines "Confidential Information" broadly to include security practices, business plans, customer data, designs, engineering information, software, trade secrets, and any other information a reasonable person would consider confidential.
• Contractor agrees to treat all disclosed information confidentially.
• Contractor agrees to use the information solely for the purpose of providing a final design, schedule, construction service, and/or contract pricing.
• Contractor must require its employees and agents to sign a similar confidentiality agreement.
• All confidential documents and copies must be returned to the USDA upon request.
• The USDA may seek legal remedies for breaches, including court orders and disqualification from the solicitation process.
• Violations may result in administrative, civil, or criminal action.

This NDA must be completed and signed by the contractor. It is a prerequisite for receiving and handling sensitive information related to the opportunity. Failure to comply with the terms can lead to disqualification and legal consequences. Bidders should carefully review and understand their obligations regarding confidential information before proceeding.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document outlines the visitor application process and requirements for accessing the NBAF Campus. It details the necessary steps for background checks and visitor requests, including information required for submission.

• Background Check: Visitors must submit information online via a provided link (https://redtailsecurity.com/corp/NBAF) for a 1-year background check. This is at no cost to the individual and is processed by a third-party system (Redtail) to ensure data security.
• Visitor Request: In addition to the background check, a visitor request must be submitted on behalf of the visitor by the COR/TPOC (sponsor).
• Required Information for Visitor Request:
  • Full Legal Name (as it appears on Driver's License)
  • Full Company Name
  • Company Phone Number
  • Company Address
• Visitor Application Information Form: A form is provided to collect details such as Full Legal Name, PIV Access Card status, US Citizen status, Country of Birth (if not US Citizen), Lawful Permanent Resident status, Company Name, Company Phone Number, and Company Address.
• Submission Instructions: The completed Visitor Application Information form should be emailed to kraig.buffington@usda.gov. It must be password protected and encrypted, with the password sent in a separate email.

This document is critical for any potential bidder or visitor who needs to access the NBAF Campus. It clearly defines the mandatory procedures for background checks and visitor requests, including the specific information and submission methods required. Failure to comply with these steps may impact planned visits.