Amendment 2-Solicitation - CUP - Two-Phase Design-Build Acquisition for Modernization and Expansion of Central Utility Plant

Amendment / Modification

• The due date for Phase 1 RFQ responses has been extended.

• Original due date: January 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.

• New due date: January 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.

• The submission deadline for RFQ responses.

• Bidders now have until January 28, 2026, to submit their Phase 1 RFQ responses.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment to Solicitation #1333ND26RNB190001 serves to:

• Extend the due date for Phase I RFQ to January 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
• Update the previous Draft Solicitation Notice language.
• Provide answers to submitted questions (see attached RFI Q&A).
• Revise Sections L (Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors) and M (Evaluation Factors for Award).
• Revise the following documents and attachments: IDIQ Statement of Work, Task Order Statement of Work, Attachments A, F1, and G.
• Incorporate new Attachment I.
• Incorporate the Sign-In Sheet PDF.

Changes and updates are indicated by highlighted language within the document.

• Section L: Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

• Section M: Evaluation Factors for Award

• IDIQ Statement of Work

• Task Order Statement of Work

• Attachments A, F1, and G

• New Attachment I

• The Phase I submission deadline has been extended to January 8, 2026.

• This document transitions the opportunity from a Draft Solicitation Notice to a formal solicitation for Phase I of a Two-Phase Design-Build Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC).

• All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

• Future amendments will be posted exclusively on SAM.gov.

• Industry is encouraged to monitor SAM.gov for subsequent amendments.

• The 3,836 calendar days listed on line 11 of page 1 of the SF1442 represents the entire 10 years and 6 months of performance for this IDIQ.

Other / Unclassified

This document, NIST Procedure 2401.01 Ver. 2, outlines the policies and procedures for managing physical access to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) facilities. It details the responsibilities for issuing, displaying, replacing, and relinquishing NIST-issued badges, including PIV/PIV-I cards, Facility Access Cards (FACs), Limited Access Cards (Yellow Badges), and Visitor Paper Badges. The directive also establishes a process for NIST employees and associates to serve as escorts for individuals requiring temporary access.

While this document is a procedural directive and not a solicitation, it is highly relevant for any vendor or contractor personnel who will be working at NIST facilities. Understanding these procedures is crucial for ensuring proper access, obtaining the necessary identification (badges), and complying with NIST's security protocols. Key aspects for bidders include:

• Badge Requirements: Details on the types of badges (PIV, FAC, Limited Access, Visitor Paper Badges) and the process for obtaining them.
• Access Control: Information on how physical access is controlled and managed within NIST facilities.
• Escort Policies: Requirements for escorts for visitors and the rules governing their conduct.
• Definitions: Clarification of terms related to access, badges, and personnel.

Vendors should familiarize themselves with these procedures to ensure their personnel can access NIST sites without delay and in compliance with all regulations.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, SECTION 010120 - DESIGN AFTER AWARD, outlines the requirements and procedures for the design phase of a design-build contract. It details the contractor's responsibilities regarding design submittals, reviews, coordination, and the development of construction documents.

• Design Submittal Phases: Requires submittals at Concept (10%), Schematic Design (30-35%), Design Development (50-65%), Construction Documents (95%), and Issued for Construction stages.
• Designer of Record (DOR): The DOR is responsible for design integrity and integration, and must review and approve construction submittals.
• Fast Track Construction: Permitted on a case-by-case basis, but performed at the contractor's risk.
• Submittal Requirements: Specifies the quantity and format of design submittals, including drawings, specifications, and basis of design narratives.
• Government Review Process: Outlines the review timelines, comment resolution, and review conferences.
• Discipline-Specific Requirements: Details the requirements for various design disciplines, including Site Development, Geotechnical, Architectural, Structural, Plumbing, Fire Protection, HVAC, Electrical, Electronic and Telecommunications Systems, and Interior Design.
• LEED Documentation: While LEED certification is not required, the government may consider it as an enhancement.
• Value Engineering and Change Requests: Procedures for submitting Value Engineering Change Proposals (VECPs) and responding to requests for changes are outlined.

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the entire design process for the project. It clarifies the expected deliverables, review cycles, and the level of detail required for each design phase. Understanding these requirements is essential for developing a compliant and competitive proposal, particularly for a design-build opportunity where the contractor is responsible for the design.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides detailed information about the existing air compressor and air dryer systems at the NIST Building 302 Central Utility Plant (CUP) in Gaithersburg. It serves as an attachment to an opportunity record, likely to inform bidders about the current infrastructure.

Existing Air Compressors:

• Four (4) Atlas Copco oil-free, rotary screw, 125 psi, 60 hertz units.
• Two (2) are ZR110 fixed speed.
• Two (2) are ZR160 VSD (variable speed).
• Typically, three (3) compressors are operated to meet current demand.
• A Gardner Denver air compressor (model HRA20-12) is also present but undersized.
• Future demand may require a 10-20% increase in capacity.

Existing Air Dryers:

• Four (4) refrigerated units using R404 refrigerant, manufactured by ZEKS.
• Primarily two (2) units are operated at any given time.

Asset Details (Compressors):

Asset Details (Air Dryers):

Future Considerations:

• Recommends Ingersoll Rand, Atlas Copco, or approved equal for future needs.

This attachment provides critical baseline information for any bidder proposing work related to the Central Utility Plant's air compressor and dryer systems. It details the existing equipment, its capacity, operational status, and potential future requirements, which are essential for understanding the scope and technical challenges of the opportunity.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding the "CUP Phase I" solicitation, clarifying various aspects of the RFP, proposal requirements, and evaluation criteria.

• Page Limits: Key personnel resumes and Project Data Sheets are included in the proposal page limits. The Phase I proposal page limit has been increased to 60 pages to accommodate the resume template.
• Bonding Capacity: The minimum bonding capacity required is $575.2M, as stated in Phase I, Factor I, and confirmed in the revised Section M.
• Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs): PPQs should be submitted directly from the client to the Government POC. Explanations of corrective actions related to past projects will not count towards the 50-page limit, with a maximum of two double-sided pages allowed.
• Cybersecurity Requirements: While contract documents follow FAR 52.204-21, control systems for the CUP modernization must comply with NIST SP 800-53.
• Historic Preservation: Historic preservation requirements apply only to the building exterior, views from other buildings, and public ways; interior spaces of the CUP do not have historic preservation requirements.
• Proposal Submission Deadline: The Phase I submission deadline has been extended to January 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
• Evaluation Factors: Factors 2 and 3 are of equal importance for the Phase 1 evaluation.

Several sections of the solicitation have been revised based on these questions, including Section L (proposal preparation and submission instructions) and Section M (basis of evaluation). The submission deadline has also been amended. Bidders should review the revised sections and any associated amendments for complete details.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides guidelines for contractors and A/E firms performing site investigations, fieldwork, and construction at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). It outlines essential procedures, safety requirements, and site-specific regulations to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

• Emergencies: Procedures for on-site emergencies and contact information.
• Site Access and Working Hours: Details on campus entry, gate hours, and noise restrictions.
• Vehicle Access: Guidelines for entering the campus with various vehicle types, including inspection procedures and hours.
• Hazards and Work Safety: Requirements for identifying and mitigating hazards, and general safety precautions.
• Safety Equipment: Mandates for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and specific training requirements for certain areas.
• Fire Protection: Compliance with fire safety regulations, including hot work permits and fire protection system impairments.
• Environmental, Safety, and Health Compliance: Adherence to OSHA, NFPA, NEC, and NIST regulations, including submission of health and safety plans.
• Security Plan: Requirements for contractor security plans, including site security, access control, and badging procedures.
• Ingress and Egress Pathways: Rules for maintaining clear access routes and managing fire protection system impairments.
• Security Badges: Information on obtaining and using NIST badges (Visitor Pass, FAC, PIV) for campus access.
• Exterior Sites and Storage: Guidelines for temporary fencing and site screening.
• Electrical Safety: Compliance with NFPA 70E for electrical work.
• Confined Space Entry: Procedures for entering confined spaces.
• Key Access: Process for obtaining temporary keys.
• Roof Access: Requirements for roof access permits.
• Mechanical/Electrical Rooms: Authorization and safety protocols for working in these areas.
• Utility Outages and Road Blockages: Procedures for requesting and scheduling utility disruptions and road closures.
• Asbestos: Guidelines for handling asbestos-containing materials.
• Investigation Equipment: Contractor responsibility for providing necessary investigative tools.
• Ground Penetrating Radar: Requirements for using GPR before core boring or drilling.
• Internal Combustion Equipment: Restrictions on using such equipment indoors.
• Site Coordination Procedures: Advance notice required for activities impacting site surfaces.
• Temporary Utilities: Requirements for requesting temporary power and plumbing.
• Adverse Weather: Procedures for requesting time extensions due to severe weather.
• Excavation and Trenching Activities: Permit requirements and utility identification.
• Environmental Management: Compliance with environmental regulations and NIST's EMS.
• Restoration of Exterior Construction Site: Requirements for site cleanup and seeding/sodding.
• Historical Requirements: Compliance with standards for historic properties.
• Scrap Building Materials Disposal: Policy on recycling construction debris.
• Operation and Maintenance Equipment Manuals: Requirements for providing O&M manuals.
• Building 101 Restricted Activities: Notice of specific days with restricted work around Building 101.
• Key Personnel Requirements: Mandates for qualified key personnel and resume submission.
• Daily Reports: Requirement for contractors to provide daily activity reports.
• Tours of the Construction Site: Procedure for requesting site tours.
• As-Builts and/or Red Line Drawings: Specifications for providing as-built documentation.
• Appendix A: Resume/Work History template.

This document is critical for any bidder planning to perform work at NIST. It details the operational, safety, security, and administrative requirements that must be adhered to throughout the contract lifecycle. Bidders must familiarize themselves with these guidelines to accurately estimate project scope, resource needs, and compliance obligations. Key areas include site access, security protocols, safety procedures (including PPE and specific training), environmental compliance, and reporting requirements. Understanding these guidelines is essential for successful proposal preparation and contract execution.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a sign-in sheet for a site visit related to the "1333ND26RNB0001 CUP Modernization" opportunity. It records the names, companies, and email addresses of attendees.

• Lists attendees by count, name, company, and email address.
• Includes a date of 12/11/25.
• Signatures are provided for each attendee.

This document indicates which companies and individuals attended the site visit. This information can be useful for understanding potential competition or identifying other interested parties in the opportunity.

Other / Unclassified

This document, NIST Procedure 2401.01, establishes policies and procedures for managing physical access to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) facilities. It details the issuance, display, replacement, and relinquishment of NIST-issued badges, including PIV/PIV-I cards, Facility Access Cards (FACs), Limited Access Cards (Yellow Badges), and Visitor Paper Badges. It also outlines the process for NIST employees and associates to serve as escorts for individuals needing temporary access to NIST facilities.

While this document primarily governs internal NIST access control, it is relevant to contractors, vendors, and other associates who access NIST campuses or facilities. It defines the types of identification badges required, the procedures for obtaining and using them, and the rules of behavior while on NIST sites. Understanding these procedures is crucial for any external party needing physical access to NIST facilities to ensure compliance and facilitate their work on-site.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Att D-SDRU.pdf", appears to be a schematic design document for the replacement of site underground utilities at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It serves as a basis for the RFQ/RFP process to select a Design Engineer for a Design-Bid-Build procurement.

• Project Overview: Addresses the need to replace aging and undersized underground utilities to meet projected capacity requirements for new facilities and expansions.
• Scope of Work: Includes approximately 46.6 miles of new underground utilities and a similar amount of existing utilities to be demolished. Utilities to be replaced include campus cooling, heating, power distribution, signal and communications, natural gas, and combined domestic/fire water. Storm and sanitary sewers will be evaluated for replacement.
• Design Considerations: Envisions a mix of walkable tunnels and direct-buried utilities, with non-walkable tunnels as an enhancement option. It also addresses the need for a new topographical survey and field location of existing utilities.
• Phasing: The project is phased, with five phases for utilities (except electrical, which has three overlapping phases). Phasing can be adjusted based on cost, location, looping, and redundancy requirements.
• Specifications: Details include site clearing, demolition, earthwork, paving, markings, pedestrian paving, edging, seeding, sodding, and hazardous components abatement (specifically asbestos cement pipe removal).
• Appendices: Includes Engineering Drawings, Sanitary Sewer Computations, and a Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Report.

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it outlines the comprehensive scope of the underground utility replacement project. It details the types of utilities involved, the scale of the work, the phasing strategy, and specific technical requirements for various components. Understanding these details is essential for accurately estimating costs, developing proposals, and assessing the project's complexity and requirements.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Certificate of Occupancy Template" (OFPM PR 2023.01), provides a template for the Certificate of Occupancy (COO) binder. The COO binder serves as formal documentation to justify and request a COO for a building or building area undergoing new construction or renovation. This procedure is applicable to newly constructed or renovated buildings, or areas undergoing significant additions or renovations, but not for one-for-one replacements or equipment upgrades.

• COO Binder Contents Template: This is the core of the document, detailing numerous items required for the COO binder, categorized by area (General, Life Safety/Egress, Fire Alarm/Sprinkler, Architectural, Electrical, Elevator, Laboratory Specific, Mechanical, Plumbing, Security, Site/Exterior).
• Item Details: For each item, the template specifies the product name, primary and secondary reviewers, OFPM notes, OSHE comments, whether a deliverable is required, if an AHJ visual inspection is required, and if a standard form is required.
• Responsibilities: The document outlines responsibilities for the Chief Facilities Management Officer (CFMO), Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), Action Officer, Group Leader, and Division Chief in the COO process.

While this document is a template for internal NIST procedures, it outlines the comprehensive documentation and inspection requirements necessary for a Certificate of Occupancy. Bidders involved in construction or renovation projects for NIST facilities would need to be aware of these requirements to ensure their work aligns with the necessary documentation and approvals for occupancy. The detailed list of required items and inspections in the COO Binder Contents Template (Attachment A) indicates the level of detail and compliance expected for building systems and safety features.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, SECTION 011000 - SUMMARY, provides an overview of the "NIST Gaithersburg CUP Modernization Design-Build" project. It outlines the scope of work, project information, points of contact, and various administrative and procedural requirements for contractors.

• Project Information: Identifies the project as "CUP Modernization Design-Build" in Gaithersburg, MD, with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as the owner. It also notes that the Architect/Engineer and Construction Manager are "To Be Determined."
• Scope of Work: Encompasses a broad variety of modification, rehabilitation, alternations, and new construction as Design-Build projects for the Central Utility Plant Complex (CUP) Modernization. Specific tasks include mechanical, electrical, plumbing, utility infrastructure, structural, fire suppression, life safety, communications, control/automation, security systems, and building construction for administrative/support spaces.
• Contract Type: A Single Award Task Order Construction Contract (SATOC).
• Key Sections: Covers related documents, project information, points of contact, contractor's management and supervision, work covered by contract documents, phased construction, work performed by government, multiple work packages, work under separate contracts, contractor's use of site and premises, coordination with occupants, work restrictions, specification and drawing conventions, sequence of design-construction, submittal of work, design-build contract order of precedence, contractor's responsibility for design, contractor's role during design process, deviating from accepted design, warranty (design and construction), training, drawings and other data ownership, miscellaneous provisions (public release, permits, asbestos, fire prevention, noise control, trucking, material delivery), occupational safety and health (EM 385-1-1, OSHA), salvage, and ceremonies.

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the overall scope, nature, and contractual framework of the CUP Modernization Design-Build project. It provides essential details on what is being procured, how the contract will be structured (SATOC), key project phases, safety requirements, and administrative procedures. Understanding this summary is fundamental for preparing accurate proposals and understanding the operational context of the project.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Att B-CUP POR.pdf", appears to be an attachment related to a Program of Requirements (POR) for a Central Utility Plant (CUP). It likely contains detailed specifications, requirements, or supporting information for bidders responding to a solicitation.

While the specific content is not detailed here, attachments to PORs typically include:

• Detailed technical specifications for equipment and systems.
• Performance criteria and standards.
• Drawings, schematics, and site plans.
• Condition assessment reports.
• Option analysis and recommendations.
• Applicable codes and standards.
• Room data sheets.
• Abbreviations.

This attachment is crucial for bidders to understand the full scope and technical requirements of the opportunity. It provides the detailed basis for proposal preparation, ensuring that vendors can accurately address all government needs and expectations. Failure to review and incorporate information from this attachment could lead to a non-compliant or uncompetitive proposal.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides comprehensive guidelines for contractors and A/E firms performing site investigations, fieldwork, and construction at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It outlines essential procedures, safety requirements, and site-specific regulations to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

• Site Access and Working Hours: Details gate hours, regular work hours, noise restrictions, and painting hours.
• Vehicle Access: Specifies entry gates, procedures for Personally Owned Vehicles (POVs) and commercial vehicles, including inspection station hours and delivery restrictions.
• Hazards and Safety: Outlines general hazards, work safety protocols, required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and specific safety training for certain buildings (e.g., 235, 245, 215, 216).
• Fire Protection: Details requirements for hot work permits, impairment permits for fire protection systems, and NIST Work Permits.
• Environmental, Safety, and Health Compliance: Requires submission of health and safety plans and adherence to OSHA, NFPA, NEC, and NIST regulations.
• Security Plan: Mandates submission of security plans covering site security, access control (including background checks and alien status verification), and badging procedures.
• Badging: Explains different badge types (Visitor Pass, FAC, PIV) and their associated access levels and requirements, including a detailed badging matrix and application timeline.
• Specific Site Activities: Covers requirements for roof access, working in mechanical/electrical rooms, utility outages, road blockages, asbestos handling, investigation equipment, ground penetrating radar, internal combustion equipment, and site coordination.
• Restoration and Historical Requirements: Details site restoration upon contract completion and compliance with historical preservation standards for NIST's historic district.
• Personnel and Reporting: Outlines requirements for key personnel, daily reports, and procedures for tours or presentations.
• Appendices: Includes Appendix A for Resume/Work History.

This document is critical for any bidder planning to perform work at NIST. It establishes the operational framework, safety protocols, security requirements, and administrative procedures that must be followed. Understanding these guidelines is essential for accurate proposal development, risk assessment, and successful contract execution. Bidders must familiarize themselves with site access, security, safety, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance and avoid potential delays or penalties.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION 010120 - DESIGN AFTER AWARD," outlines the requirements and procedures for the design phase of a design-build contract. It details the Contractor's responsibilities regarding design submittals, reviews, coordination, and the overall design-construction sequence.

• Design Submittal Phases: Requires submittals at Concept (10%), Schematic Design (30-35%), Design Development (50-65%), Construction Documents (95%), and Issued for Construction (100%).
• Designer of Record (DOR): The DOR is responsible for design integrity and integration, and must stamp and sign final design drawings.
• Fast Track Construction: Permitted on a case-by-case basis, but performed at the contractor's risk.
• Design Analysis: Includes detailed requirements for presenting design analysis, calculations, and computerized design analysis.
• Drawings and Specifications: Outlines requirements for CAD drawings, specifications, and submittal registers.
• Surveys: Details requirements for site surveys, existing building conditions surveys, and hazardous materials surveys.
• Discipline-Specific Design Requirements: Extensive details are provided for Architectural, Structural, Plumbing, Fire Protection, HVAC, Electrical, Electronic and Telecommunications Systems, Shielding Design, and Interior Design.
• Phasing Plans: Requirements for updating phasing plans for both delivery order work and the whole facility program.
• Value Engineering: Outlines the process for submitting Value Engineering Change Proposals (VECPs).

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the design process and deliverables expected under the design-build contract. It sets the stage for how the project will be designed, reviewed, and ultimately constructed, impacting proposal development and execution strategy. Bidders need to understand these design requirements to accurately estimate costs, timelines, and technical approaches.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for Design-Build construction services for the renovation, expansion, and modernization of the Central Utility Plant (CUP) Steam Plant at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Gaithersburg campus. The contract will be an Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC). The goal is to ensure reliable utility services and enable future campus expansion.

• Design-Build work for the CUP, based on Attachment B (NIST Program of Requirements) and Attachment C (CUP POR Appendices).

• The CUP includes buildings such as B302 (Steam & Chilled Water Generation Plant), B305 (Cooling Towers), B305V (Electrical Service Building), B306 (Electrical Substation), B316 (Electrical Service), and B317 (Cooling Tower).

• Modernization of existing equipment and systems within the CUP.

• Replacement of underground diesel fuel tanks and associated piping.

• The scope covers three phases of modernization, with this IDIQ focusing on Phase 1 (Required work) and potentially Phase 2 (Potential IDIQ work).

• Task areas include Program Management, Design, Pre-Construction, Construction, Testing/Inspection/Commissioning, and Project Closeout.

• Contract Type: Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ), Firm-Fixed Price, Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC).

• Period of Performance: 3,836 calendar days (approximately 10 years and 6 months) from award.

• Estimated construction cost for Phase 1 is $56,000,000.

• Offers are due by 01:00 PM ET on December 30, 2025.

• Proposals will be evaluated in two phases: Phase I (RFQ) and Phase II (RFP).

• Phase I evaluates Bonding Capacity (Pass/Fail), Design-Build Approach, and Technical Qualifications.

• Phase II evaluates Technical Solution, Project Team, Small Business Participation, Project Labor Agreement (PLA), and Price.

• A best-value trade-off process will be used for award.

• Not explicitly stated in the provided pages, but typical for construction solicitations.

• This document is issued as a Draft Solicitation Notice for advance awareness.

• Any amendments or updates will be posted exclusively on SAM.gov.

• A pre-proposal site visit is scheduled for December 11, 2025.

• Inquiries and questions must be submitted in writing via email by December 15, 2025.