Construct Arabian Leopard Exhibit at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
Amendment 0001 to this presolicitation notice updates the anticipated release of the solicitation for Preconstruction and Construction Services to build the Arabian Leopard Exhibit at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. The solicitation is now expected in October 2026, a change from the previously stated Mid-March 2026. This is a presolicitation notice, and no proposals are being requested at this time.
Scope of Work
The project involves Pre-Construction Services and Construction Services Phase 1 (Site and Construction), with an optional Phase 2 for the Habitat and Animal Care Building. The successful contractor must be capable of performing all work, including critical elements such as:
- Working within an occupied, historic campus with public, staff, and animals.
- Coordinating specialty trades within a small site footprint.
- Installing specialty animal doors, shifting systems, and remote door controls.
- Coordinating and installing multiple subsurface utility systems, drainage, and water conveying systems.
- Installing radiant flooring, animal containment fencing/mesh, and shotcrete faux rock/trees.
- Mitigating sound and vibration during demolition and construction to protect animals.
- Coordinating construction activities with Zoo operations, including feeding schedules, noise regulations, Zoo hours, animal welfare, veterinary care, and public events.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Presolicitation Notice (Construction)
- NAICS: 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction) with a $45M small business size standard.
- Estimated Cost: Over $10 million.
- Period of Performance: 26 months from Notice to Proceed (for Base and Option).
- Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008.
- Set-Aside: Not Applicable.
- Solicitation Release: Anticipated October 2026 (subject to change).
- Response Due: Within 45 days of solicitation release.
Evaluation
The Smithsonian Institution will accept proposals from all qualified offerors. The evaluation panel will be the sole entity to determine an offeror's capability to meet contract requirements.
Additional Notes
This is not a Request for Proposal and does not obligate the Government to award a contract. Updates will be provided via this notice as they become available. Electronic copies of the full solicitation will be uploaded to SAM.gov.