Construction Of Museums And Exhibition Buildings

The PSC Category Y1JA for Construction of Museums and Exhibition Buildings encompasses architectural and construction services specifically tailored to cultural and research facilities. These services include new construction, renovation, infrastructure upgrades, and specialized modifications for museums, research centers, and exhibition spaces. The work involves complex building systems, specialized infrastructure, and precise environmental control requirements to support sensitive collections, research activities, and public spaces.

Federal Contract Awards in this category primarily involve the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art, with contracts ranging from $10,000 to over $107 million. Typical projects include HVAC system replacements, facility infrastructure upgrades, exhibit space renovations, and building system improvements. Frequently awarded contractors include Associated Builders, Inc., HSU Builders, TEX Am Construction Co., and Kunkel Construction, Inc. Most awards are firm fixed-price contracts without specific set-aside designations, indicating full and open competition. Performance locations are predominantly in Washington, D.C., with some projects in Maryland, Virginia, Hawaii, and Panama. Contract durations typically span 6-36 months, with most awards focusing on specialized museum and research facility improvements.

The single federal contract opportunity posted involves a design-build solar project for the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater, Maryland. The pre-solicitation notice seeks contractors to design and construct two ground-mounted photovoltaic solar arrays with a combined output of 4.0 Megawatts DC. The total estimated project cost exceeds $10 million, with the full solicitation expected in February 2025. Eligible contractors would come from North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes including Commercial and Institutional Building Construction, Power and Communication Line Construction, Solar Electric Power Generation, and Engineering Services. The project represents a significant investment in sustainable infrastructure for a scientific research facility.