Replace Chiller Bldg 89
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. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is soliciting Request for Quotations (RFQ) for the replacement of the chiller system at Building 89 located at the Subtropical Horticulture Research facility in Miami, FL. This acquisition is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside. Quotes are due by March 4, 2026, at 12:30 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The project's objective is to replace aging air-cooled chillers and upgrade the Building Automation System (BAS) to ensure reliable environmental conditions for agricultural research. The scope includes:
- Decommissioning and removal of existing air-cooled Smardt chiller(s), including refrigerant recovery and disposal.
- Furnishing and installation of a new air-cooled chiller system (e.g., Quantech QTC4150S or Daikin ACCH-160T, with enhanced corrosion resistance for saltwater environments).
- Complete integration with existing building systems and the BAS.
- Comprehensive testing and commissioning, including a minimum 72-hour continuous operation test.
- On-site training for personnel and provision of complete documentation (O&M manuals, warranties, as-built drawings).
All work must be completed within 120 days of the Notice to Proceed and adhere to Energy Star efficiency requirements, with chillers recovering from power loss within 4 minutes and from standby within 2 minutes.
Contract & Timeline
- Opportunity Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (RFQ)
- Anticipated Award Type: Firm Fixed-Price contract, with the government intending to make one award.
- Set-Aside: Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).
- NAICS Code: 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors), with a $19,000,000 small business size standard.
- Place of Performance: USDA Agricultural Research Service, Subtropical Horticulture Research, 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33158.
- Site Visit: Scheduled for February 20, 2026, at 1:30 PM EST. Registration is required by 09:00 AM EST on the same day via email to david.reynolds2@usda.gov.
- Quotes Due: March 4, 2026, at 12:30 PM EST.
Submission & Evaluation
Offerors must submit a transmittal summary letter, signed solicitation with completed pricing, proof of HVAC company licensing and certification, and at least one relevant reference. Failure to submit required documents may render a quote non-responsive. Evaluation will be based on meeting all requirements and representing the best value to the Government, in accordance with FAR 12.203.
Special Requirements
Contractors must adhere to site security protocols, ensure all personnel pass required security clearances, and perform work with licensed and certified technicians. Compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including EPA refrigerant management, is mandatory. Bidders should review the provided Wage Determination for labor cost considerations. Experience in tropical climates and existing installations in Miami-Dade, with service availability within 60 miles, is preferred.