Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) Chillers Replacement
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 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Los Angeles District, is conducting market research via a Sources Sought notice to identify prime contractors for the design-build replacement of the Vertical Wind Tunnel (VWT) chiller and control system at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. This project has an estimated magnitude of $1,000,000 to $5,000,000. Responses are due by April 14, 2026.
Project Overview
This is a Sources Sought/Request for Information (RFI) only, not a solicitation. The Government anticipates a Firm-Fixed-Price, Design-Build (DB) contract with an estimated 365-day period of performance. The anticipated NAICS code is 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction) with a $45M size standard, and the PSC is Y1AZ. No set-aside has been determined at this market research stage.
Scope of Work
The project involves a complete design-build solution to replace an existing 450-ton chiller with a new system (approximately 1,000 tons total) and control system for Building 2590. Key tasks include:
- Developing a complete design for a new chilled water system capable of 120°F ambient design temperature, including electrical, HVAC, and plumbing upgrades.
- Performing all necessary site work (concrete pad, shading, retaining walls, utility tie-ins, grading, pavement repair).
- Procuring and installing two new water-cooled chillers and a new direct digital control system.
- Ensuring seamless interface with the VWT's main flight control system and the base's Energy Monitoring and Control System (EMCS).
- Assessing and potentially replacing the VWT's main flight control system and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs).
- Upgrading electrical service transformer and switchboard.
- Providing full system testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB), and a comprehensive warranty with long-term O&M support.
Special Requirements
The requirement will involve Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and may necessitate Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1. Interested firms must indicate their CMMC status or anticipated compliance timeline. The Government intends to specify iFLY / SkyVenture Tunnel Systems as a brand-name item for the VWT Flight Control System due to integration and operational integrity; firms may propose alternatives with justification.
Submission Requirements
Interested PRIME CONTRACTORS must submit a capability statement (max 6 pages, excluding CPARS) by April 14, 2026. Submissions must include:
- Offeror Information: Full corporate details, POC, UEI, CAGE, business size, socio-economic classifications, and relevant NAICS codes.
- Bonding: Single and aggregate construction bonding levels and available capacity.
- Capability: Narrative demonstrating ability to manage subcontractors, comply with permits, and execute concurrent projects.
- Cybersecurity: Statement on CMMC Level 1 status or timeline.
- Relevant Past Performance: Up to three projects (completed or 50% complete within 6 years) demonstrating experience with chiller/control systems of similar complexity and value ($1M-$5M) on US/Allied military installations. Include project details, role, self-performed percentage, value, type, client contact, and CPARS.
- Brand-Name Response: Alternative to iFLY equipment with supporting rationale.
Important Notes
This is for market research only; no contract will be awarded from this announcement. No reimbursement for response costs. All construction contracts require compliance with EM 385-1-1 Safety and Occupational Health Requirements.