HVAC System Replacement and Upgrade/Refrigerated Air Conversion
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
The USDA Forest Service, Lincoln National Forest is soliciting proposals for HVAC System Replacement and Upgrade/Refrigerated Air Conversion at the Smokey Bear Ranger District in Ruidoso, NM. This Total Small Business Set-Aside opportunity addresses significant operational degradation due to wildfire impacts and water intrusion, requiring full replacement and upgrade of HVAC systems across seven facilities. Proposals are due June 12, 2026, by 12:00 PM Mountain Time.
Purpose & Background
The existing HVAC systems at the Smokey Bear Ranger District facilities have suffered severe degradation from wildfire ash, particulate matter, and water intrusion, leading to compromised indoor air quality and reduced reliability. This project aims to restore safe, functional, and compliant building operations by replacing and upgrading these systems.
Scope of Work
This project involves comprehensive construction and mechanical services, including:
- Removal of existing HVAC systems, including evaporative coolers.
- Installation of new refrigerated HVAC systems (split systems, packaged roof units, heat pumps, or VRF).
- Repair or replacement of associated ductwork to meet airflow requirements.
- Upgrades to controls and distribution systems.
- Electrical work, including removal/replacement of components and new connections, compliant with NEC.
- Testing, commissioning, and air balancing to ensure systems meet design specifications.
Work will be performed at seven facilities: Main Office, Small Office, Recreation Office, Fire Operations Building, Ranger House, Tanker Bay, and Bunkhouse. The Schedule of Items (CLINs 0002 & 0003) details the specific work for these buildings. All labor, materials, equipment, supervision, and incidentals are required.
Contract Details
- Contract Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (Request for Quotation), anticipated Firm-Fixed Price.
- Set-Aside: Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5).
- NAICS Code: 238220 - Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors (Size Standard: $19.0 million).
- Place of Performance: Smokey Bear Ranger District, Lincoln National Forest, Ruidoso, NM.
- Period of Performance: 120 calendar days from Notice to Proceed (NTP).
Submission & Evaluation
- Questions Due: June 3, 2026, by 12:00 PM Mountain Time.
- Pricing Packages Due: June 12, 2026, by 12:00 PM Mountain Time.
- Offer Acceptance Period: 90 calendar days.
- Evaluation: Award will be made to the offeror representing the best value to the Government, based on Technical Approach, Price, and Past Performance.
Important Notes
- A pre-proposal conference (site visit) is scheduled for May 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM Mountain Time at the Smokey Bear Ranger District. Offerors must RSVP to John Montoya (john.montoya@usda.gov) and CC Melissa Heckenlaible (melissa.heckenlaible@usda.gov) at least 48 hours prior.
- All communications and questions should be directed to Melissa Heckenlaible (melissa.heckenlaible@usda.gov).
- Wage Determination NM20260021 for building construction in Lincoln County, New Mexico, applies to this project.