Solicitation - CUP - Two-Phase Design-Build Acquisition for Modernization and Expansion of Central Utility Plant
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 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Department of Commerce, is conducting a Two-Phase Design-Build Acquisition for the Modernization and Expansion of its Central Utility Plant (CUP) in Gaithersburg, MD. This is a formal solicitation for Phase I, seeking proposals for a Firm-Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC). The project aims to ensure reliable utility services and enable future campus expansion. Phase 1 RFQ proposals are due by January 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
The comprehensive scope involves the modernization, renovation, and expansion of the CUP Steam Plant, encompassing buildings such as B302, B305, B305V, B306, B316, and B317. Key tasks include the replacement of underground diesel fuel tanks and associated piping, and extensive utility infrastructure replacement (approximately 46.6 miles of new underground utilities for campus cooling, heating, power, communications, natural gas, and water). The project covers mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, fire suppression, life safety, communications, control/automation, security systems, and administrative/support spaces. The design-build process requires submittals at various phases (10%, 30-35%, 50-65%, 95%, 100%).
Contract Details
- Type: Firm-Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC).
- Period of Performance: Approximately 10 years and 6 months (3,836 calendar days).
- Estimated Construction Cost (Phase 1): $56,000,000.
- Minimum Bonding Capacity: $575.2M.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
Evaluation & Submission
The acquisition follows a two-phase process: Phase I (RFQ) and Phase II (RFP). Phase I evaluation factors include Bonding Capacity (Pass/Fail), Design-Build Approach, and Technical Qualifications, with the latter two being equally important. The Phase I proposal page limit has been increased to 60 pages, including key personnel resumes and Project Data Sheets. Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs) must be submitted directly from the client to the Government POC. Control systems for the CUP modernization must comply with NIST SP 800-53.
Key Dates & Contacts
- Phase 1 RFQ Proposal Due: January 28, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
- Primary Contact: Brandon Butler (brandon.butler@nist.gov).
- Secondary Contact: Teresa Harris (teresa.harris@nist.gov).
- Monitoring: Industry is strongly encouraged to monitor SAM.gov regularly for any subsequent amendments.