COTP RIVER CROSSING TOWER PAINTING

Quick Summary

The Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), Sierra Nevada Region (SNR) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify firms capable of performing corrosion mitigation and coating application on 525-kV lattice towers at the Sacramento and San Joaquin River crossings in California. This work involves operating on energized 500-kV lines. Responses are due February 13, 2026.

Purpose & Scope

WAPA requires specialized services for corrosion mitigation, including surface preparation and application of InduraGuard 9200 coating, on 525-kV lattice towers. These towers, reaching heights of 450 feet, are located at the crossings of the Sacramento and San Joaquin Rivers in the California Delta. A critical aspect of this requirement is the ability to perform work safely and effectively while the 500-kV transmission line remains energized. The RFI aims to assess the availability of both small and other than small businesses with the necessary capabilities.

Key Capabilities Sought

The contractor must demonstrate extensive experience in the following areas:

• Nondestructive testing and inspection of steel lattice towers and interpretation of results.
• Surface preparation and InduraGuard 9200 coating application on steel lattice towers in an energized 525-kV environment.
• Climbing and working at heights up to 450 feet in an energized 525-kV environment.
• Climbing, fall protection, and rescue certifications for energized 525-kV lattice towers.
• Advanced surface preparation techniques suitable for energized environments, such as ultra-high-pressure (UHP) waterjetting or contained abrasive blasting, to minimize conductivity risks and environmental contamination.
• Proven QA/QC program for industrial coatings, adhering to standards from SSPC or AMPP, including documentation of surface profile, dry film thickness (DFT), and adhesion testing.
• Expertise in navigating federal, state (California), and local environmental regulations, including abatement management, preventing material entry into rivers/watersheds, and protecting wildlife.

Draft Specifications

A draft specification document, "COTP River Crossing Tower Painting," provides further details on the potential project. It outlines the repainting and corrosion treatment of the COTP Sacramento and San Joaquin River Crossing and Anchor transmission towers, which are over 60 years old. The project is anticipated to involve Phase 1 (Sacramento River Crossing, October 2024 - September 2026) and an optional Phase 2 (San Joaquin Crossing). Future contract details, if a solicitation is issued, would be in accordance with a Construction Contract (Standard Form 1442).

Response Requirements

Interested parties with the described skills and capabilities are encouraged to provide feedback via email to Jolene Daoud (DAOUD@WAPA.GOV) by the closing date. Responses should include:

• Offeror's name, UEI #, address, point of contact, phone number, and e-mail address.
• Offeror's Business Size and type of Small Business (if applicable).
• Offeror's capabilities and specific project experience (3-5 projects within the last five years) related to the work described in the Draft Specifications.

Important Notes

This is for market research purposes only and does not constitute a Request for Quote (RFQ), Request for Proposal (RFP), or Invitation for Bid (IFB). No reimbursement will be made for costs associated with providing information. Phone calls will not be accepted.

Response Due

February 13, 2026