Little Mountain Testing Facility (LMTF) Progress-Design-Build OT
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 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Sacramento District, is issuing a DRAFT Program Solicitation for a Progressive Design-Build (PDB) project under Other Transaction (OT) authority for the Little Mountain Testing Facility (LMTF) at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. This project involves constructing a 50,000 sq ft Radiation Research Facility with a total program funding of up to $111,500,000.00. The purpose is to expand testing capabilities for the Sentinel program and meet future Nuclear Hardness mission requirements. Feedback on the draft solicitation is due by May 29, 2026. The official solicitation and White Paper submission are anticipated on or around July 15, 2026.
Project Overview
The LMTF project aims to construct a new, state-of-the-art Radiation Research Facility (RRF) of approximately 50,000 sq ft. This facility is critical for modernizing testing capabilities and establishing the nuclear hardness baseline for the Sentinel weapon system. Key components include a laboratory for specialized radiation effects equipment (such as the Advanced Radiation Environment Simulator (ARES) and a 14 MeV neutron generator), test cells, control rooms, support areas for material storage and dosimetry testing, and a classified conference room. The construction will feature robust elements like reinforced concrete, structural steel, and specialized shielding to contain radiation. The facility will also meet Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 standards.
Acquisition Strategy
This acquisition will utilize a streamlined, two-phase competitive selection process under Other Transaction (OT) authority (10 USC §2808a), emphasizing collaboration, flexibility, and speed, rather than traditional FAR-based contracts.
- Step 1 – White Papers: Interested parties will submit a Statement of Qualifications (maximum 10 pages). The government intends to down-select up to three companies to proceed.
- Step 2 – Pitches: Selected companies will participate in pitch meetings, including an oral presentation and a Scope of Services/Conceptual Design submission. One company will be selected as the Design-Build team for award.
Contract Details
The agreement will be awarded to the most qualified Progressive Design-Build Entity (PDBE) as a Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) contract. The project is structured in two post-award phases:
- Phase 1: Design and Pre-construction services.
- Phase 2: Final design completion and construction award, with FFP for successive milestones agreed upon as design progresses and funds become available. Total program funding is up to $111,500,000.00. The NAICS code is 236210 – Industrial Building Construction.
Key Requirements
- Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): A CMMC Status of Level 1 (Self-Assessment) is required. Offerors must have achieved this status and affirm completion of the required self-assessment and attestation at the time of award, as performance involves handling Federal Contract Information (FCI).
- Eligibility: All interested parties must be registered in SAM and possess a valid Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Small business participation is encouraged but not required for award eligibility.
Submission & Evaluation
- Draft Feedback: Questions and feedback on the draft program solicitation are due by May 29, 2026, via the ProjNet Suite Bidder Inquiry System.
- Official White Paper Submission: The official Program Solicitation and White Paper submission are anticipated on or around July 15, 2026. White papers must be submitted via the PIEE Solicitation Module.
- Evaluation Criteria (White Paper): Technical Approach, Capability and Past Relevant Experience (up to three projects), and Management Approach & Key Personnel.
- Evaluation Criteria (Pitch Meeting): Technical Understanding, Collaborative Capability, and Problem-Solving Ability.
Important Dates
- Draft Solicitation Closing Date / Questions Due: May 29, 2026
- Official Program Solicitation & White Paper Due: On or around July 15, 2026
Additional Notes
Construction is contingent upon Congressional authorization and appropriation of funds. Performance and Payment Bonds will be required for Phase 2. An Industry Day was held virtually on May 14, 2026, to provide an overview and gather input.