Amendment 1-Solicitation - CUP - Two-Phase Design-Build Acquisition for Modernization and Expansion of Central Utility Plant

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (Amendment 1) to Solicitation 1333ND26RNB190004 serves two primary purposes:

• Provides answers to questions submitted in response to the current solicitation. These answers are found in the attached document titled "Current Solicitation RFI_Q and A_1333ND26RNB190004_CUP Phase I."
• Provides previous questions and answers from an earlier solicitation (1333ND26RNB190001) for the "CUP Phase I" effort. These are located in the attached document "Previous Solicitation RFI_Q and A_1333ND26RNB190001_ CUP Phase I." Bidders are instructed to review a note on page one of this previous Q&A sheet.

This amendment primarily provides new information in the form of Q&A documents. Specific sections of the original solicitation are not explicitly detailed as changed, but the provided Q&A documents may clarify or modify understanding of requirements.

While this amendment does not explicitly state changes to proposal deadlines or submission requirements, bidders should carefully review the provided Q&A documents. These documents may contain clarifications that impact how proposals should be prepared or evaluated. All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to questions and clarifications regarding Solicitation No. 1333ND26RNB190001, originally issued under Amendment 1. It clarifies details related to the CUP Modernization project. Offerors are advised that attachments issued with Solicitation No. 1333ND26RNB190004 are the most current and authoritative versions, and will govern in case of discrepancies.

• Page Limits: CPARS do not count against the Phase I proposal page limit. Resumes of key personnel and Project Data Sheets do count towards the page limit. The Phase I proposal page limit has been increased to 60 pages to accommodate resume templates.
• Bonding Capacity: The minimum bonding capacity required is $575.2M, as stated in Phase I, Factor I. A surety letter will be evaluated to ensure the offeror can obtain a minimum bonding value of $150M for both performance and payment bonds.
• Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs): PPQs must come directly from the reviewing client to the Government POC. Explanations of corrective actions related to past projects do not count towards the 50-page limit but are limited to two double-sided pages.
• Cybersecurity Requirements: Contract documents will follow FAR 52.204-21. However, 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 views from public ways. Interior spaces of the CUP do not have historic preservation requirements.
• Site Restoration: The contractor shall restore the site to its original condition, including removing debris and stones from subsoil. The government will revise Attachment A to clarify that the contractor is responsible for debris generated by their operations, or establish a Unit Price Allowance for pre-existing debris.
• Submission Deadline: The Phase I submission deadline has been changed to January 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.

This Q&A document clarifies several key aspects of the solicitation, including page limits, bonding requirements, past performance submission procedures, cybersecurity mandates, and site restoration scope. It also confirms a revised Phase I submission deadline. Offerors should ensure their proposals address these clarifications and refer to the most current solicitation documents (Solicitation No. 1333ND26RNB190004) for definitive requirements.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to questions submitted by potential offerors regarding the 1333ND26RNB190004 CUP Modernization Solicitation.

• Proposal Due Date Extension: No extension will be granted for Phase 1 due to programmatic requirements and the need to award within Fiscal Year 2026.
• Attachments Page Count: Attachments such as surety letters and letters of commitment are included in the proposal page count.
• SF1442 and Amendments: The executed SF1442 and all applicable amendments must be included in the proposal submission.
• Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs): Offerors can either include completed PPQs in their submission (if obtained by the closing date) or have the client submit them directly to the Government's Point of Contact if unable to obtain them. PPQs and CPARS documentation do not count against the 60-page limit.
• Previous Q&A Applicability: Responses to Q&A issued under a previous solicitation remain applicable and will be reissued with the current solicitation responses. Offerors do not need to resubmit previously addressed questions.
• Resumes and Data Sheets: Resumes and project data sheets are included in the proposal page count.
• Bonding Capacity: The $575.2 million bonding capacity is an aggregate requirement for the overall project, not a single-project requirement.
• Construction Manager Identity: The identity of the Construction Manager is not material to offer preparation and will not be provided at this time, as they are engaged under a separate contract and have no contractual authority over the Contractor.
• Limitation of Future Contracting: Firms that prepared Attachment B (CUP POR) and Attachment C (CUP POR APP) or the Master Planning Documents are prohibited from performing on this contract, subject to the Limitation of Future Contracting provision.

No changes to the proposal due date or submission requirements were made based on these questions, except for clarifications on how to submit PPQs and what is included in the page count. Previous Q&A remain applicable.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Att D_SDRU.pdf", appears to be a schematic design report for the "Site Underground Utilities Replacement" (SDRU) project at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) headquarters campus. It serves as a basis for the "RFQ/RFP process to select the Design Engineer for a DBB procurement.

• Executive Summary: Outlines the need for utility replacement due to age and undersized capacity, coordinating with the Central Utility Plant (CUP) upgrades.
• Project Description: Details a multi-phase, multi-year project to replace approximately 46.6 miles of underground utilities, including cooling, heating, power distribution, signal and communications, natural gas, and combined domestic/fire water. Sanitary and storm sewers will be evaluated for replacement. New utility locations will be used to maintain service during construction, with crossover valve vaults at phase lines and building entrances. Continuous campus operation is required.
• Phasing and Sequencing: The project is divided into five phases for utilities (except electrical, which has three overlapping phases). Phasing can be adjusted by the designer.
• Utility Lengths: Provides a table detailing the total length in linear feet and miles for various utilities (steam, condensate, chilled water, water, gas, electrical ductbanks, and communication ductbanks).
• Relevant Codes and Standards: Lists applicable codes and standards for Maryland State Highway Administration, Stormwater Management, WSSC, ABA, Energy Independence and Security Act, NFPA, and ICC.
• Design Conditions and Assumptions: Describes the project as a mix of walkable tunnels and direct-buried utilities, with non-walkable tunnels as a value engineering option. Thermal utilities may be direct-buried, in non-walkable tunnels, or walkable tunnels. Electrical and telecommunications will use concrete encased duct banks. Storm and sanitary sewers will be inspected to determine replacement extent. Topographical survey and field location of utilities are required.
• Mechanical Thermal Utility Distribution: Details existing conditions and new work for heating, cooling, and electrical power distribution systems, including load calculations for existing and future campus loads.
• Electrical Utility Distribution: Describes the existing medium voltage distribution system, its limitations, and the intent to upgrade it with new duct banks, vaults, and manholes.
• Structural Considerations: Outlines structural requirements for vaults, tunnels, and tunnel junction areas, including applicable codes and standards.
• Appendices: Includes Engineering Drawings, Sanitary Sewer Computations, and a Preliminary Geotechnical Engineering Report (under separate cover).

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the scope, scale, and technical requirements of the Site Underground Utilities Replacement project. It provides essential information on the types of utilities to be replaced, the proposed installation methods (direct-buried, tunnels), phasing, relevant codes, and design considerations. Bidders will need to understand these details to prepare accurate proposals and assess their capability to meet the project's demands.

Other / Unclassified

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, coordination, government reviews, and the sequence of design-construction.

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the design process and expectations for a design-build opportunity. It specifies:

• Design Submittal Phases: Outlines the required stages of design submittals (Concept, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents) and the content expected at each stage.
• Designer of Record (DOR) Responsibilities: Clarifies the DOR's role in ensuring design integrity and integration.
• Fast-Track Construction: Explains the conditions and risks associated with fast-track construction, where construction begins before final design approval.
• Submittal Quantities and Delivery: Details the number of sets and format for design submittals.
• Coordination and Review Process: Describes the interview process, written records, design conferences, and the government's review and comment process, including timelines.
• Specific Design Disciplines: Outlines detailed requirements for various design disciplines, including Site Development, Geotechnical, Architectural, Interior Design, Structural, Plumbing, Fire Protection, HVAC, Electrical, Electronic and Telecommunications Systems, Shielding Design, and Phasing.
• Value Engineering and Change Requests: Explains the process for submitting Value Engineering Change Proposals (VECPs) and responding to requests for changes.
• Revisions to Accepted Design: Details the procedures for making revisions after design acceptance.

Understanding these requirements is essential for bidders to accurately scope their proposals, understand the project lifecycle, and ensure compliance with the government's design and construction process.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document, SECTION 011000 - SUMMARY, outlines the scope and general requirements for the NIST Gaithersburg CUP Modernization Design-Build project. It details the work covered by the contract documents, project information, points of contact, and contractor responsibilities.

• The contract encompasses a broad variety of modification, rehabilitation, alternations, and new construction as Design-Build (D-B) projects for the Central Utility Plant Complex (CUP) Modernization.

• Specific tasks may include repair, construction, and/or replacement of Mechanical Systems, Electrical Systems, Plumbing Systems, Utility Infrastructure and Systems, Structural and Foundation, Fire Suppression Systems, Life Safety Systems, Communications Infrastructure, Control/Automation/Monitoring Systems, Security Systems, and building construction for administrative, support, and storage spaces.

• The project involves the CUP, including Building 302 (Steam & Chilled Water Generation Plant), Building 305 (Cooling Tower), Building 305V (Electrical Service Building), Building 306 (Electrical Substation), Building 316 (Electrical Service Building), and Building 317 (Cooling Tower).

• Phased construction is required, with phases to be developed by the Contractor in coordination with NIST to minimize disruption.

• The contractor must provide a single point of contact available 24/7.

• The contractor is responsible for planning, programming, design, scheduling, coordination, management, construction, and execution of work across multiple, potentially simultaneous, task orders.

• This is a Single Award Task Order Construction Contract (SATOC).

• The contract includes standard clauses, the solicitation, drawings, and the accepted proposal.

• The contract type is firm-fixed price.

• Task orders will be initiated with a Request For Proposal (RFP).

• Contractors must provide firm-fixed priced proposals reflecting the Scope of Work (SOW) and site visit findings.

• Proposals must include a cost breakdown and be submitted in CSI Uniformat Work Breakdown Structure level II format.

• Proposals will be reviewed for completeness, accuracy, and reasonableness, and may be subject to negotiation.

• Task orders will be issued by the Contracting Officer (CO).

• Not explicitly stated in this section.

• The document details extensive requirements for contractor's use of site and premises, coordination with occupants, work restrictions, specification and drawing conventions, sequence of design-construction, submittals, contractor's role during design, deviating from accepted design, warranties, training, and drawings/data ownership.

• Safety and health requirements are detailed, referencing US Army Corps of Engineers EM 385-1-1 and OSHA standards.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Att C_CUP POR App.pdf", serves as a comprehensive appendix to the Central Utility Plant (CUP) Program of Requirements (POR). It provides detailed supplementary information crucial for understanding the project's technical specifications, existing conditions, and compliance mandates.

• Project Appendices: Includes Requirement Summary, Associated Drawings, Existing Conditions, Code Observations, Site Information (Site Plan, Survey), Charrette Report, and Geotechnical Engineering Report.
• Utility Load Data: Detailed Mechanical Load Calculations for numerous buildings (231-238, 301-304, 312, 320), including existing metered/calculated loads and projected future loads. Also contains Steam Generation Summaries and preliminary Chilled Water Plant Operating Cost analysis, including Heat Pump Chiller Analysis and Steam/Hot Water System Comparisons.
• Infrastructure Standards: Specifies NIST requirements for Network and Telecommunication Infrastructure (rooms, cabling, contractor needs), Security and Access Control (PACS hardware, VMS, cameras), Building Security Guidelines (blast resistance, structural security), and Construction Security Plans (CSP).
• AV Equipment Requirements: Details NIST AV Equipment Requirements for Collaboration Spaces, emphasizing hybrid meeting functionality and compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and Trade Agreements Act (TAA). It lists specific NDAA/TAA-compliant products (Poly, Logitech, Sharp, Samsung) with vendor URLs and product IDs, and provides a sample package for huddle spaces.

This appendix is essential for potential bidders to grasp the full scope and technical demands of the CUP project. It provides critical data for designing, costing, and executing work related to mechanical systems, electrical infrastructure, network cabling, security systems, and audio-visual equipment. Bidders must carefully review the specific building data, load calculations, system comparisons, infrastructure standards, and AV equipment compliance mandates (NDAA, TAA) to ensure their proposals meet all requirements.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document, "Att B_CUP POR.pdf", is an attachment to a SAM.gov opportunity record. It appears to be a Program of Requirements (POR) document related to the modernization of a Central Utility Plant (CUP) facility.

The document outlines the project's scope, context, analysis of thermal options, architectural approach, and detailed requirements for various systems including:

• Project Summary: Goals, background, existing conditions, and requirements summary.
• Project Context: Site context, existing conditions assessment of buildings, chiller plant, steam plant, cogeneration plant, electrical systems, and site utilities.
• Program Analysis: Campus utility energy model, thermal options, and a summary of findings.
• Architectural Approach: Structure, site and civil considerations, and site utilities approach.
• Electrical: Details on the chiller plant's electrical systems, cooling tower substations, and steam plant substations.
• Thermal Options: Various options for chilled water generation, steam/hot water generation, and heat pump chillers.
• Site and Civil: Site improvements, pedestrian circulation, vehicular access, topography, grading, drainage, landscaping, and site utilities.
• Appendices: Include requirement summaries, existing conditions, code observations, site information, and various technical reports.

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it details the extensive requirements, scope, and technical specifications for the CUP modernization project. It provides a comprehensive overview of the existing conditions, proposed solutions, and detailed performance criteria for various systems. Bidders will need to thoroughly review this document to understand the full extent of the project, including architectural, structural, electrical, mechanical, and site utility requirements, to formulate an accurate proposal.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "OFPM COO Binder Contents Template," provides a standardized template for creating a Certificate of Occupancy (COO) binder. The COO binder is the formal documentation required to justify and request a COO for a building or building area undergoing new construction or renovation. This template was developed in conjunction with the NIST Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

• The template outlines specific items required for the COO binder, categorized by area (e.g., General, Life Safety/Egress, Fire Alarm/Sprinkler, Architectural, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Security, Site/Exterior).
• For each item, it specifies the product name, primary and secondary reviewers, whether it requires AHJ visual inspection or a standard form, and provides notes on deliverables and OFPM comments.
• It details the responsibilities of various roles, including the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), Action Officer, Group Leader, and Division Chief, in building and obtaining approval for the COO binder.

While this document is primarily an internal NIST procedure and template, it is relevant to potential bidders involved in construction or renovation projects at NIST facilities. Bidders may be responsible for providing the documentation and ensuring the completion of the items listed in this template as part of their contract deliverables. Understanding these requirements will help bidders prepare accurate proposals and ensure compliance during project execution to facilitate the COO approval process.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, NIST Procedure 2401.01 Ver. 2, outlines the policies and procedures for requesting and 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. It also establishes a process for NIST employees and associates to serve as escorts for individuals needing temporary access.

• Scope: Applies to NIST-owned or controlled sites, affecting employees, contractors, and vendors.
• Badge Types: Details various badge types (PIV, PIV-I, FAC, Limited Access, Visitor Paper) and their associated uses and limitations.
• Access Control: Covers electronic access control systems, physical access control systems (PACS), and security hours.
• Definitions: Provides definitions for key terms such as Access Controlled Space, Activation, Associate/Affiliate, Badge, Escort, Foreign National, etc.
• Responsibilities: Outlines responsibilities for various NIST offices and personnel, including the NIST Director, OU Directors, HR, Department Sponsors, NCNR, OSY, and ESO.
• Procedures: Details procedures for initial entry, site badge issuance, PIV/PIV-I card issuance, limited access card issuance, temporary building access, and visitor entry during business and security hours.
• Escorting: Defines who requires an escort, who can serve as an escort, and the rules of conduct for escorts.
• Appendices: Includes Rules of Behavior for all Card Types and a Revision History.

This document is crucial for any contractor, vendor, or associate who will require physical access to NIST facilities. It clarifies the types of identification and badges needed, the application processes, the responsibilities of sponsors, and the rules for accessing NIST campuses and buildings. Understanding these procedures is essential for ensuring smooth entry and compliance with NIST security regulations.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides detailed 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 operational protocols.

• Site Access and Working Hours: Details gate hours, noise restrictions, and painting hours.
• Vehicle Access: Specifies entry gates, types of vehicles allowed, inspection procedures, and delivery protocols.
• Hazards and Safety: Covers general hazards, work safety, required safety equipment (including PPE and dosimeters), fire protection, and environmental, safety, and health compliance.
• Security: Outlines security plan requirements, access control, badging procedures (Visitor Pass, FAC, PIV), and vehicular access.
• Operational Procedures: Includes guidelines for confined space entry, key access, roof access, mechanical/electrical rooms, utility outages, road blockages, and safety around equipment.
• Specific Work Areas: Addresses asbestos handling, investigation equipment, ground penetrating radar, internal combustion equipment, site coordination, temporary utilities, and adverse weather.
• Restoration and Compliance: Details requirements for exterior construction site restoration, grass maintenance, historical requirements, scrap material disposal, and operation/maintenance manuals.
• Personnel: Specifies key personnel requirements, daily reporting, and procedures for tours of the construction site.
• Deliverables: Requires as-builts and/or red line drawings in specific formats.
• Appendix: Includes a template for Resume/Work History.

This document is critical for any bidder to understand the operational, safety, security, and logistical requirements for working on the NIST campus. Adherence to these guidelines is mandatory and will impact project planning, execution, and cost. Bidders should pay close attention to sections on site access, security, safety protocols, and specific work procedures to ensure compliance and successful contract performance.

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). 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).
• Generally, three (3) are operated at any given time.
• The current operational configuration requires running three compressors to meet demand, indicating potential undersizing.
• A future increase in capacity of 10-20% may be needed.
• A Gardner Denver air compressor (model HRA20-12) is also present but undersized.

Existing Air Dryers:

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

Equipment Details (Tables):

• Lists specific Asset IDs, Building, Manufacturer, Model No., Serial No., CFM, and Pressure for both air compressors and air dryers.

Future Considerations:

• Recommends Ingersoll Rand, Atlas Copco, or approved equal manufacturers for future compressed air equipment needs.

This attachment provides critical baseline information for any bidder proposing work related to the Central Utility Plant's air compressor and air dryer systems. It details the existing equipment, its operational status, and potential future capacity needs, which will be essential for developing accurate proposals and understanding the scope of potential work.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for Design-Build construction services for the renovation, expansion, and modernization of the Central Utility Plant (CUP) 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.

• The scope includes Design-Build work for the CUP, guided by Attachment B (NIST Program of Requirements for Central Utility Plant Facility June 2024) and Attachment C (CUP POR Appendices).

• The CUP POR outlines three phases of modernization: Phase 1 (Required work), Phase 2 (Potential IDIQ work after Phase 1), and Phase 3 (Out of scope for this IDIQ).

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

• Key construction areas include Site Construction, Building Construction, Mechanical Systems (Steam, Chilled Water, HVAC), Electrical Systems, Plumbing Systems, Fire Suppression Systems, and Digital Systems.

• Replacement of underground diesel fuel tanks and associated piping is included.

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

• Period of Performance: Defined per task order. The overall performance period for this task order is 660 days from award for base CLINs and 1,095 calendar days if all options are exercised.

• Place of Performance: NIST Campus, Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, Maryland.

• Phase I (RFQ) submissions are non-price proposals evaluated on Bonding Capacity (Pass/Fail), Design-Build Approach, and Technical Qualifications.

• Phase II (RFP) submissions will include a technical proposal and a price proposal.

• Technical proposals will be evaluated on Technical Solution, Project Team, Small Business Participation, and Price.

• Proposals are due electronically via email by 1:00 PM EST on March 04, 2026.

• Offerors must acknowledge all solicitation amendments.

• Not explicitly stated as a set-aside in the provided pages, but Small Business Participation is a factor in Phase II evaluation.

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

• LEED Certification is not required, but may be considered as an enhancement.

• Executive Order 14057 requirements are no longer applicable due to its revocation.