Z--Bridge 447 Timber Repairs
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 Department of the Interior, National Park Service (NPS), specifically the MWR Ohio office, has issued a Justification & Approval (J&A) for other than full and open competition for Bridge 447 Timber Repairs at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This action addresses an urgent need for specialized repairs to critical structural defects on Bridge 447, mandated by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA).
Scope of Work
The required work involves the fabrication and installation of custom-engineered bridge timbers and new 132-lb railroad rail for Bridge 447. This includes timbers cut to exact dimensional tolerances, dapped, and produced using certified engineering drawings unique to the bridge.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition (Simplified Acquisition)
- Product Service Code: Z2LB (Repair Or Alteration Of Highways/Roads/Streets/Bridges/Railways)
- Published: February 4, 2026
Key Justification Points
This J&A outlines the critical reasons for pursuing a limited competition approach:
- Urgent Need: The FRA mandated a 30-day deadline for corrective action due to critical structural defects, including wide gauge, defective bridge timbers, loose tie plates, and spikes, posing significant safety concerns.
- Tight Timeline: A 90-day fabrication period is required for the custom timbers, with installation needing to occur within the January non-operational window to avoid disrupting park services and ensure safety.
- Specialized Requirements: The custom timbers demand precise engineering and fabrication unique to Bridge 447.
- Market Research Findings: Market research concluded that only one contractor could simultaneously meet all requirements: fabricate custom timbers within 90 days, install new timbers and rail within the January shutdown window, meet FRA safety/compliance, and mobilize quickly under emergency conditions.
- Impact of Full Competition: Attempting full and open competition would cause unacceptable delays (2-4 months), violate FRA deadlines, extend repairs into the active operating season, and create ongoing public and operational safety hazards.
Additional Notes
This opportunity is highly specialized and time-sensitive, indicating that general competition is precluded due to the unique capabilities and immediate availability required. For further information, contact Christopher Bauer at christopher_bauer@nps.gov or 330-468-2500.