C--Design, Fabrication, and installation of Interpretive media exhibits at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0001) to solicitation 140F0S26Q0012 makes the following changes:

• Provides Questions and Answers (Q&A).

• Updates Section F regarding the Period of Performance.

• Clarifies Section L, specifically subsection 2.1 (Evaluation Factors).

• Extends the solicitation close date from March 13, 2026, to March 27, 2026.

• Section F (Period of Performance)

• Section L (Evaluation Factors)

• Overall solicitation close date

• The proposal submission deadline has been extended to March 27, 2026.

• Bidders should review the provided Q&A and the clarified evaluation factors.

Solicitation

This solicitation is for the Design, Fabrication, and Installation of Interpretive Media Exhibits at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. The project aims to replace outdated exhibits on the second floor with modern, durable displays that interpret the refuge's habitats and wildlife.

• Design, fabrication, and installation of interpretive media exhibits.

• Exhibits to cover approximately 45 linear feet on the West Wall (base item) and 26 linear feet on the East Wall (optional item).

• Exhibits should be low to medium technology, easy to maintain, and ADA compliant.

• Designs must be timeless, high quality, and withstand constant touching and visitor interaction, as well as fading from sunlight.

• Materials and exhibits must be easy to clean and maintain with minimal replacement costs.

• Deliverables include concept plans, design submittals (10%, 35%, 65%, 95%), fabrication, and installation.

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: Anticipated completion within 21 months from award, including fabrication and installation. Specific milestones are outlined for design phases.

• Quotations must be submitted electronically in two parts: non-price and price.

• Non-price section includes Technical Acceptability (approach, design narrative, past performance) and Past Performance (FAPIIS search).

• Price section includes a completed price schedule.

• Key deadlines: Site visit on March 5, 2026. Questions due 7 days prior to solicitation closing.

• Evaluation: Best Value determination based on Technical Acceptability and Price. Past performance will be assessed.

• No specific set-aside is mentioned, but standard FAR clauses regarding small business utilization apply.

• A site visit is scheduled for March 5, 2026. Contact Marcia Pradines for attendance.

• The document includes extensive contract clauses and representations/certifications required for offerors.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to questions submitted by potential bidders regarding Solicitation 140F0S26Q0012 for an exhibit project at Blackwater NWR.

• Taxidermy Reuse: Existing taxidermy may be reused but is not required. New items should avoid taxidermy or freeze-dried specimens; 3D modelwork or other media are preferred.

• Exhibit Concept: The goal is an engaging exhibit showcasing Blackwater NWR's habitats (forest, marsh, open water) and associated species, providing context for the Wildlife Drive. An optional wall could focus on birds-of-prey or a children's area.

• Wildlife Focus: Emphasis on migratory birds (waterfowl, bald eagles) and iconic mammals (Delmarva fox squirrel, muskrat, sika). Incorporating seasonal sounds is encouraged.

• Technology: Minimal, non-proprietary technology is preferred for ease of maintenance.

• Budget: The estimated budget is between $200,000.00 - $350,000.00.

• Images/Video: The refuge has internal image files and may assist in obtaining materials. Stock images and local sources are also options.

• Structural/Electrical: CAD files are available upon request. Second-floor live load capacity is 70 PSF. The existing 200-amp panel is at full capacity, but existing breakers can be used; an electrician must verify capacity for new displays.

• Windows: No current UV treatment; fading is a concern. The refuge may purchase and install a product if suggested.

• Lighting/Flooring/Walls: Track lighting is suggested. Replacing carpet and walls is outside this contract's scope but may be done separately.

• Demolition: Not included in this contract; the refuge will handle it.

• Exhibit Footprint: Exhibits can extend beyond the current footprint if ADA requirements are met.

• Graphic Files: Available for downstairs and window exhibits.

• Glare/Sun Exposure: South-facing windows experience significant glare, particularly from noon to 2:00 P.M., and seasonally.

• The proposal submittal date has been extended to March 27, 2026.

• Contractors can propose their own schedule of milestones and deliverables, subject to Government approval.

• A design narrative or concept is acceptable for the price proposal.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the Design, Fabrication, and Installation of Interpretive Media Exhibits at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center. The existing exhibits, in place since 2013, have faded and require replacement. The project aims to create modern, durable exhibits that showcase the habitats and species of the refuge, complementing the visitor center's observation area.

• Design, fabrication, and installation of interpretive media exhibits.

• Exhibits to be modern, durable, and ADA compliant.

• Focus on low to medium-level technology and ease of maintenance.

• Exhibits must withstand constant touching and visitor interaction for a minimum of 10 years, including resistance to fading from sunlight.

• Base Item: West Wall Exhibit (approx. 45-foot length).

• Optional Item: East Wall Exhibit (approx. 26-foot length).

• Exhibits may include murals, replicas, interpretive text, audio/visual programs, interactives, graphics, models, and lighting.

• Contractor must coordinate with general contractors and remodel schedules.

• Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: Approximately 14 months for fabrication and installation, following design phases.

• Estimated Value: Not explicitly stated, but NAICS code 541850 (Display Advertising) with a size standard of $34.5 million.

• Solicitation Issue Date: 02/12/2026

• Offer Due Date: 03/13/2026 at 0800 EST.

• Proposals to be submitted electronically via email to Joni_Dutcher@fws.gov.

• Quotations to be submitted in two parts: non-price and price.

• Non-price section evaluated on Technical Acceptability (approach to SOW, past performance) and Past Performance.

• Price section evaluated for fair and reasonableness.

• A site visit is scheduled for March 5, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST.

• This acquisition is set aside for Small Business (100%).

• NAICS Code: 541850 (Display Advertising).

• Small Business Size Standard: $34.5 million.

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference and in full text.

• Key points of contact are Joni Dutcher (Contract Specialist) and Marcia Pradines Long (Refuge POC).

• Electronic invoicing via the Invoice Processing Platform (IPP) is required.