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

Quick Summary

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), under the Department of Commerce, is soliciting proposals for a Two-Phase Design-Build Acquisition for the Modernization and Expansion of its Central Utility Plant (CUP) in Gaithersburg, MD. This effort will be awarded as an Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC) to ensure reliable utility services and support future campus expansion. Phase I (RFQ) proposals are due by March 04, 2026, at 1:00 PM EST.

Opportunity Overview

This solicitation seeks Design-Build construction services for the renovation, expansion, and modernization of the CUP complex, including Buildings 302, 305, 305V, 306, 316, and 317. The project is guided by the CUP Program of Requirements (POR) and its appendices, outlining a comprehensive scope across three phases of modernization, with Phase 1 being the immediate focus. The work encompasses a broad variety of modifications, rehabilitation, alterations, and new construction.

Key Requirements & Deliverables

The scope includes:

• Program Management, Design, Pre-Construction, Construction, Testing/Inspection/Commissioning, and Project Closeout.
• Construction Areas: Site, Building, Mechanical (Steam, Chilled Water, HVAC), Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Suppression, Life Safety, Communications, Control/Automation/Monitoring, and Security Systems.
• Utility Infrastructure: Modernization and replacement of approximately 46.6 miles of underground utilities (cooling, heating, power, communications, natural gas, water), requiring continuous campus operation and phased execution. This includes the replacement of underground diesel fuel tanks.
• Design-Build Process: Contractors must adhere to detailed design submittal phases (Concept, Schematic, Design Development, Construction Documents) and coordination requirements as outlined in "SECTION 010120 - Design After Award."
• Operational Compliance: Strict adherence to NIST guidelines for contractors, site access, safety, security, and physical access procedures (NIST PR 2401.01). Bidders should also be aware of Certificate of Occupancy (COO) binder requirements.

Contract Details

• Contract Type: Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) Single Award Task Order Contract (SATOC).
• Pricing: Firm-Fixed Price for task orders.
• Period of Performance: The overall IDIQ has a performance period of 10 years and 6 months (3,836 calendar days). Specific task orders will have defined periods, with the initial task order having a base of 660 days and up to 1,095 days if all options are exercised.
• Place of Performance: NIST Campus, Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, Maryland, United States.
• Set-Aside: Not explicitly stated as a set-aside; however, Small Business Participation is a factor in Phase II evaluation.

Submission & Evaluation

This is a Two-Phase Acquisition:

• Phase I (RFQ): Non-price proposals will be evaluated on Bonding Capacity (Pass/Fail), Design-Build Approach, and Technical Qualifications.
• Phase II (RFP): Selected offerors will submit technical and price proposals. Evaluation factors include Technical Solution, Project Team, Small Business Participation, and Price.
• Proposal Due (Phase I): Electronically via email by 1:00 PM EST on March 04, 2026.
• Offerors must acknowledge all solicitation amendments.

Contact Information

For inquiries, contact Brandon Butler at brandon.butler@nist.gov or 303-497-3280.