Water Tower Storage Repair & Maintenance

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment includes two new attachments:

  • "Attachment 5 - Consolidated List of RFI Questions and Answers"
  • "Attachment 6 - Feb-Mar 2026 Inspection Report"

• Not explicitly stated, but new attachments are added.

• No changes to proposal deadlines or submission requirements are indicated.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions and clarifications regarding solicitation 1232SA26Q0514.

• SF 24 Bid Form: The contractor bonding company can provide the appropriate forms.
• Background Checks: No additional requirements beyond logging in and out daily are needed.
• March 2026 Inspection Report: Attachment 6, the Feb/March 2026 Inspection Report, is now included.
• Weekend Work: May be allowed depending on staffing availability.
• Tank Construction: Built in 1979; exterior paint was taken down to bare metal in 2010. Interior lead content is unknown.
• Water Access: No charge for using hose bibbs or fire hydrants outside the building; the closest is near the maintenance shop.
• Antennas: The tank has no antennas.
• Notice to Proceed: Estimated within two months after submittals are approved.
• Third-Party Inspector: None will be used.
• Liquidated Damages: There are no liquidated damages for this project.
• Warranty Period: Refer to applicable contract clauses.
• Tank Draining Time: Seven (7) calendar days.
• Equipment Staging Areas: Immediately behind the tank, pavement next to the bug hut/headhouse area, and possibly next to the Quonset Hut on a gravel pad area.

This document clarifies several aspects of the solicitation, including the inclusion of a specific inspection report and details on site access and staging. Bidders should review these answers to ensure their proposals accurately reflect the project requirements and conditions.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a "Watersphere Inspection Report" dated February 26, 2026, for the USDA Appalachian Fruit Research 100,000 Gallon WSP located at 2217 Wiltshire Road, Kearneysville, West Virginia. It details the findings of an inspection conducted by Pittsburg Tank & Tower Group.

• Job Number: 326028
• Inspector: Bryer Gibson (NG)
• Tank Owner: USDA Appalachian Fruit Research
• Owner's Representative: Shawn Thomas, Facilities Operation Specialist
• Tank Details: Built in 1977, 100,000 Gallon Capacity, Potable/Fire Protection type, 30'-0" diameter, 145'-0" high water level.
• Inspection Findings: The report includes detailed observations and recommendations for various components of the water tank, referencing specific codes such as AWWA D100-21, NFPA 22-2018, and OSHA standards.
• Recommendations: Specific work proposed includes fencing the area, posting warning signs, foundation maintenance, sealing, anchor bolt tightening, installing a flapper valve, posting confined space and fall protection signs, installing hinged covers, re-installing safety devices on ladders, interior and exterior pressure washing, installing a mixing system, installing an anti-vortex assembly, performing a dry interior cleanout (noted as an emergency basis), installing a passive cathodic protection system, and replacing rusting nuts.
• Testing Data: Includes results for Lead, Adhesion, Mil Thickness Testing, and Ultrasonic Thickness Testing for various sections of the tank (Bottom, Access Tube, Bottom of Bowl, Top).

This report outlines the current condition of the water tank and specifies recommended maintenance and repair work. Bidders interested in opportunities related to water tank maintenance, repair, or inspection services should review these findings to understand the scope of potential work, required compliance with industry standards (AWWA, NFPA, OSHA), and the specific issues identified.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0001) to solicitation 1232SA26Q0514, dated 04/22/2026, makes the following changes:

• Addition of FAR Clause: FAR clause "52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Apr 2026)" has been added in full text.

• Addition of AGAR Clause: AGAR Clause "452.203-72 Unenforceable Supplier Terms (Apr 2026)" has been added in full text.

• The full text of the two clauses listed above has been incorporated.

• The amendment does not extend the hour and date specified for receipt of offers.

• Bidders must acknowledge receipt of this amendment as instructed in Item 11.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items (RFQ) for Water Tower Repairs and Maintenance at Kearneysville, WV. The government intends to make one firm-fixed-price award.

• Project Title: Water Tower Repairs and Maintenance at Kearneysville, WV.

• Scope of Work: Includes repair of a 100,000 Gallon Water Storage Tank. See attached scope of work.

• Delivery: 90 Days After Award.

• Contract Type: Firm-fixed-price.

• Period of Performance: Not explicitly stated, but delivery is 90 days after award.

• Estimated Value: Not stated.

• Submission Deadline: May 20, 2026, by 10:00 AM local time.

• Submission Method: Emailed offers to kelly.wright@usda.gov with subject line "RFQ 1232SA26Q0514".

• Offer Acceptance Period: 60 calendar days from the date specified for receipt of offers.

• Evaluation Method: Lowest Priced Technically Acceptable (LPTA).

• Key Milestones: Kickoff meeting, Notice to Proceed, Submittals, Material Delivery, Mobilization, Project Phases/Work to Be performed, Punchlist, Closeout.

• Questions Due: May 8th, 2026, by 10:00 AM Central Time.

• Competition is set aside for Total Small Business.

• Applicable NAICS Code: 237110 (Water and Sewer Line and Related Structures Construction).

• Small Business Size Standard: $45M.

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) at the time of solicitation closing.

• This solicitation incorporates provisions and clauses by reference. Full text may be accessed electronically at www.acquisition.gov.

• Attachments include: Scope of Work (SOW), Wage Determinations, and Support Drawings.

• A site visit is mandatory for offerors.

• A bid bond is required for offers of $35,000 or more, not less than 20% of the proposed price, not to exceed $3,000,000.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document contains the drawings and specifications for the "Repair 100,000 Gallon Elevated Potable Water Storage Tank" project at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station in Kearneysville, West Virginia. It details the scope of work, materials, and technical requirements for the repair and refurbishment of the water storage tank.

• Structural Drawings: Cover general notes, demolition and new work plans, and structural details.
• Mechanical Drawings: Include legends, schematics for domestic water distribution and the water tower, tank plans (demolition and new work), and details for the electric water boiler.
• Electrical Drawings: Detail electrical legends, site plans, tank plans, panel schedules, and power riser diagrams for both new work and demolition.
• Specifications: Outline requirements for materials such as paint (specifically "Utilithane" biobased polyurethane), steel (ASTM A36, A53 Gr. B), and grating (welded bar grating, galvanized).
• Bid Option: Includes an option for exterior blasting and repainting.

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it provides the comprehensive technical details necessary to understand the full scope of the repair work. It outlines all structural, mechanical, and electrical components to be addressed, including specific materials, standards (e.g., SSPC-SP-10, AISC, AWS, ANSI 14.3), and safety requirements. Bidders must use these drawings and specifications to accurately estimate costs, develop their technical proposals, and ensure compliance with all stated requirements for the repair of the water storage tank.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To establish a comprehensive repair and maintenance program for the USDA's 100,000-gallon Water Storage Tank at the Appalachian Fruit Research Station (AFRS) in Kearneysville, WV, ensuring compliance with OSHA, State, and Federal requirements and bringing the tank back to safety standards.

• Perform comprehensive repairs and maintenance on the 100,000-gallon Water Storage Tank.

• Tasks include OSHA-required repairs (e.g., installing safety devices, handrails), critical repairs (interior cleanout), non-critical repairs (installing flapper valve, anti-vortex assembly), and preventative maintenance (cleaning anchor bolts, replacing nuts, pressure washing, applying paint, installing cathodic protection).

• Includes cleaning and housekeeping measures to minimize overspray and restore potable water standards.

• Deliverables include a PM Checklist & Report within 5 business days of service, an Annual Summary Report, an updated Asset List, and a Parts List.

• The Annual Summary Report should aggregate trends, failures, and recommendations, explaining resolutions and any unresolved issues.

• Period of Performance: 90 days after award for all repairs and maintenance tasks.

• Work Schedule: Normal hours of operation (6:30 am - 4:00 pm, Monday-Friday), excluding federal holidays. Extended downtime requires 5 business days' advance notice.

• Place of Performance: USDA ARS AFRS facility, 2217 Wiltshire Road, Kearneysville, WV 25430.

• Contractor must provide all labor, tools, and equipment.

• Manufacturer recommendations take precedence if more stringent than SOW tasks.

• Technicians must be trained and experienced in water storage tank maintenance and repairs.

• Appropriate attire and identification are required for contractor employees.

• All data, documentation, and reports generated are property of the USDA.

• Travel to and from the site is at the vendor's expense.

• Government-furnished access will be provided to the facility and the Water Storage Tank.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) for wage determination, specifically for Building Construction Projects in Jefferson County, West Virginia. It outlines the prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction trades. Bidders should use this information to understand labor costs associated with the opportunity.

• General Decision Number: WV20260037
• Effective Date: 01/02/2026
• Construction Type: Building
• Geographic Area: Jefferson County, West Virginia
• Applicable Trades and Rates: Includes rates for Asbestos Worker/Heat & Frost Insulator, Firestopper, Boilermaker, Tile Setter, Bricklayer, Mason Stone, Tile Finisher, Carpenter, Millwright, Electrician, Elevator Mechanic, Power Equipment Operator, Ironworker, Laborer, Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher, Plumber, Roofer, Sheet Metal Worker (including HVAC Duct Installation), Truck Drivers, Laborer (Power Tool Operator), Glazier, Operator (Backhoe, Excavator), Painter, Pipefitter, Sprinkler Fitter, and Welders.
• Paid Holidays: Details for paid holidays are provided for several classifications.
• Vacation: Vacation pay credit details are provided for Elevator Mechanics.
• Executive Orders: Notes on Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage) are included, outlining contractor obligations.

This wage determination is crucial for bidders to accurately estimate labor costs for any construction project in the specified area. It ensures compliance with federal labor standards by establishing minimum wage and fringe benefit rates for various construction crafts. Bidders must ensure their proposals reflect these prevailing wage requirements.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) for West Virginia, specifically for Jefferson County, detailing prevailing wage rates and fringes for various construction classifications. This is relevant for contractors bidding on heavy construction projects in the specified area to ensure compliance with labor standards.

• General Decision Number: WV20260068
• State: West Virginia
• County: Jefferson County
• Construction Type: Heavy
• Effective Date: 01/02/2026
• Classifications and Rates: Includes detailed hourly rates and fringe benefits for various trades such as Carpenter, Electrician, Power Equipment Operator (with specific group definitions), Ironworker (Ornamental/Structural and Reinforcing), Laborer (with multiple sub-classifications like concrete, chain saw, asphalt raker, etc.), Painter, Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher, Truck Driver, and Welder.
• Executive Orders: Notes applicability of Executive Order (EO) 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and EO 13658 (Minimum Wage) for federal contractors, outlining requirements and minimum pay rates.
• Appeals Process: Provides information on how to appeal wage determination decisions.

Bidders must use these prevailing wage rates to accurately estimate labor costs for their proposals. Failure to comply with these wage and fringe benefit requirements can lead to bid disqualification or contract non-compliance. The document also highlights specific requirements related to paid sick leave and minimum wage for federal contractors, which must be factored into labor planning and cost calculations.

Other / Unclassified

This document provides important information regarding a mandatory site visit and the process for submitting questions related to an upcoming solicitation. It details the location, date, and time for the site visit, as well as the registration requirements and deadlines.

• Mandatory Site Visit: Attendance is required to provide an offer on the solicitation. The site visit is scheduled for May 6th, 2026, at 10:00 AM local time, meeting at the Maintenance Shop by the 30,000-gallon white propane tank.
• Registration: Contractors must register for the site visit by emailing kelly.wright@usda.gov and shawn.thomas@usda.gov by May 5th, 2026. Late registrations will not be accepted.
• Attendee Policy: Attendees must be employed by the prime contractor intending to offer. Subcontractors may attend but must identify the prime contractor they represent. Prime contractors cannot send multiple subcontractors to represent them, nor can they send multiple subcontractors to compete amongst each other. Proxy subcontractors are allowed if they clearly identify the prime contractor they represent.
• Questions Submission: Questions must be submitted via email to kelly.wright@usda.gov by May 8th, 2026, at 10:00 AM Central Time. The email subject line should include the solicitation name and number.