AMD_0003_Attachment_4_-_16JAN2026_0003.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 22 KB Posted
- Attached to
- DOI Main Building Food Services RFQ
- Solicitation number
- 140E0126Q0001
About this file
This document is a Questions and Answers (Q&A) attachment for a Department of the Interior (DOI) Request for Quote (RFQ) for food service operations at the Stewart Lee Udall Building. The solicitation is a Total Small Business Set-Aside with a 3-year base period plus 2 one-year options, seeking a contractor to operate a full-service cafeteria and coffee bar on the basement level. Key details include operating requirements such as freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items, made-to-order food offerings, optional catering, and conference room service, with 1,095 daily building badge swipes as of January 2026.
The Q&A document provides critical operational insights, including technology deployment constraints (devices must use IoT VLAN), menu flexibility (contractors can refresh menus without prior approval), and specific service expectations. Notable requirements include avoiding duplication of Randolph-Sheppard Act vendor services, maintaining sanitary conditions, and supporting remote ordering. Performance will be evaluated on food quality, customer experience, operational continuity, and service reliability. Vendors must comply with HSPD-12 background screening and coordinate with DOI's Contracting Officer Representative for facility access and security procedures.
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Other files
| File | Type | Posted |
|---|---|---|
| AMD_0003_Attachment_1_-_T_C_-_16JAN2026_0003.pdf | ||
| Sol_140E0126Q0001_Amd_0003.pdf | ||
| AMD_0003_COMPLETE_RFQ_-_16JAN2026_0003.pdf | ||
| Sol_140E0126Q0001_Amd_0002.pdf | ||
| Sol_140E0126Q0001_Amd_0001.pdf | ||
| Attachment_1_-_T_C.pdf | ||
| References_1-4.pdf | ||
| RFQ_140E0126Q0001_Final_-_15DEC2025.pdf | ||
| Attachment_2_-_DC_WageDetermination.txt | TXT text file | |
| Attachment_3_-_52_212-3.docx | DOCX document |
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Text version
Sheet1
| Number | Question | Response | |
| 1 | Future Occupancy Assumptions | ||
| Are there any anticipated changes to telework policies or building occupancy levels during the base or option periods that offerors should consider in their operating plans? | The Department of the Interior hopes to increase occupancy of the Udall building over the next 1-2 years. The building has a maximum occupancy of around 2,000 people. Also, please see response to question 11. There are no anticipated changes to telework policies or remote work at this time. | ||
| 2 | Wait-Time Expectations | ||
| Does DOI have any baseline or target expectations for customer wait times during peak lunch periods that would inform service design and staffing models? | The RFQ does not establish specific baseline or target wait times. However, consistent with the requirements in Sections 2.0–2.3 emphasizing efficient service, customer experience, and operational reliability, DOI expects the contractor to staff and design operations in a manner that reasonably minimizes wait times during peak lunch periods. Vendors may propose service models, staffing approaches, and process improvements that support timely service while maintaining food quality and customer satisfaction. | ||
| 3 | Technology Deployment Constraints | ||
| Are there any IT, cybersecurity, or network restrictions contractors should be aware of when deploying POS systems, mobile ordering, kiosks, or digital menu boards within the facility? | Devices need to be isolated from the internal network and should use the Internet of Things VLAN via physical network connections. DOI will provide the network and security services for these connections, the POS equipment and software would be the responsibility of the offeror. | ||
| 4 | Remote Ordering Use Cases | ||
| The RFQ notes that remote ordering and payment options are highly desirable. Are there specific use cases DOI is most interested in (e.g., order-ahead pickup, catering pre-orders, express lines)? | Order-ahead pickup. Vendors may propose any remote ordering solutions that enhance convenience and operational efficiency while meeting all contract requirements, however it is not required. | ||
| 5 | Menu Flexibility & Innovation | ||
| Are contractors permitted to refresh menus, introduce limited-time offerings, or test new concepts during the contract term without prior approval, provided requirements are met? | Yes. Contractors may refresh menus, offer limited-time items, and test new concepts during the contract term without prior approval, provided all RFQ requirements are met. Changes that would affect operations or compliance should be coordinated with the COR, but routine updates to improve variety and customer experience are encouraged. | ||
| 6 | Pricing Updates & Promotions | ||
| How frequently may contractors update menu pricing, and are promotional or discounted offerings permitted as long as prices remain fair and reasonable? | The RFQ does not establish a fixed schedule for price changes. Contractors may update pricing and offer promotions or discounts, provided prices remain fair and reasonable; however, the Government reserves the right to take appropriate contractual action, including termination, if pricing practices become unjust or inconsistent with the terms of the contract. | ||
| 7 | Randolph-Sheppard Coordination | ||
| Can DOI clarify the specific product categories or offerings currently provided by the Randolph-Sheppard operator that the cafeteria should avoid duplicating? | The Randolph-Sheppard Act (20 U.S.C. § 107 et seq.) grants priority to licensed blind vendors for the operation of vending facilities in Federal buildings. As stated in the RFQ, the Stewart Lee Udall Building currently has a Randolph-Sheppard snack bar/micro-market on the 4th floor and all vending machines in the building are operated under the Randolph-Sheppard program administered by GSA. |
At this time, the Randolph-Sheppard operation primarily provides convenience-style food and beverage items, such as:
| • | Packaged snacks and beverages |
| • | Grab-and-go items |
| • | Vending-type products |
| • | Limited pre-packaged food items typical of a snack bar or micro-market |
The awardee under this solicitation is expected to operate only the full-service cafeteria and coffee bar located on the basement level, as described in Sections 2.0–2.3 of the RFQ. Services should focus on:
| • | Freshly prepared breakfast and lunch items |
| • | Hot and cold meals |
| • | Made-to-order or prepared food offerings |
| • | Optional catering and conference room service |
| • | Optional coffee bar service using government-furnished equipment |
The Government does not require vendors to exclude normal cafeteria menu items simply because similar packaged products may exist in vending or micro-market form elsewhere in the building. As noted in the solicitation, some coordination may be required during start-up. If a prospective vendor believes that a proposed menu item may overlap with Randolph-Sheppard operations, the vendor may identify that item in its quote, and the Government will address any required adjustments during post-award coordination.
| 8 | Performance Management | ||
| Beyond compliance, what key performance indicators does DOI consider most important in evaluating contractor success (e.g., customer satisfaction, participation rates, service reliability)? | Beyond compliance, DOI will monitor performance based on the quality and reliability of services in Sections 2.0–2.3 of the RFQ, including food quality, customer experience, operational continuity, cleanliness, and stewardship of Government-furnished equipment. Please note these performance indicators are what will most likely be used for contract administration only and do not affect the evaluation criteria for award. | ||
| 9 | Randolph-Sheppard Coordination | ||
| Want to confirm that the Randolph-Sheppard cafe in the building will be staying in operation if the cafeteria in the basement opens back up? Also, the 2 employees that were working in the cafe did not seem to be visually impaired, do the blind subcontract that cafe? | Oversight of Randolph-Sheppard Act operations within the building is the responsibility of the General Services Administration (GSA), not the Department of the Interior (DOI). As such, DOI does not have authority over, or insight into, current or future Randolph-Sheppard contracts. Nevertheless, DOI will engage and coordinate with GSA should any Randolph-Sheppard–related concerns arise during contract performance. | ||
| 10 | Do you have an average $ spent per transaction for historical sales data between 2017-19 provided in the RFQ; a breakfast and lunch transaction average separately if available or (if not) then a combined average per transaction is fine? | This information is not available. | |
| 11 | Could you please share the overall and average daily office headcounts for both DOI and GSA within the building? | For 13 January 2026, there were 1,095 badge swipes per day in the building. GSA does not have any permanent tenants in the building, but any visitors would be included in that number. | |
| 12 | Do you have data on the percentage of employees currently working on-site three, four, and five days per week? | All employees were ordered to return to the office, with limited exceptions given. There is no data available on specific work schedules for employees that can be provided. | |
| 13 | Are there any restrictions related to building access during weekdays, Monday through Friday, that vendors should be aware of? | No known restrictions at this time. Vendors will need to operate within the building's current standard operation procedures, but those will be handled in coordination with the Government's Contracting Officer Representative to help the vendor interface with the appropriate Government security and facility personnel when applicable. | |
| 14 | Are there preferred operating hours for food service, and would an 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. window align with current needs? | See Section 2.2 of the RFQ, but quoters may provide alternate hours based on their approach if they deem it may be better for the Department's interest. | |
| 15 | Would DOI be open to limiting food service operations to Monday through Thursday, either year-round or seasonally (for example, during summer months)? | The RFQ establishes a minimum service schedule of Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, as described in Section 2.2. While DOI is open to discussing reasonable operational adjustments after award, limiting service to Monday through Thursday would not meet the stated minimum requirements unless specifically approved by the Contracting Officer. | |
| 16 | Can you please confirm whether background checks or security clearances are required for all vendor personnel? | All personnel working in federal government facilities are required to be screened. HSPD-12 screening involves background investigations and adjudications for federal employees and contractors needing access to federal facilities and includes a criminal background check. | |
| 17 | Is the DOI open to the use of subcontractors or a joint venture model to provide a broader range of food service options? | Yes, but it's up to interested vendors to determine this on their own for their the solution they are quoting. Additionally, section 5.5 has been added to the RFQ as a result of this question. | |
| 18 | Is there any willingness to subsidize operations during an initial ramp-up period (e.g., the first 12, 18, or 24 months), potentially with a defined cap? | There is no intent to subsidize offerings provided. Support services provided by DOI are as stated in section 2 of the RFQ. | |
| 19 | Are there any known rodent or pest control concerns within the building, and who is responsible for managing pest control services? | Responsibility for pest control is as stated in the RFQ. The Government provides building-wide pest control services as part of its facilities management responsibilities. Contractors are not responsible for contracted pest control services; however, the contractor is expected to maintain sanitary conditions within food service areas and promptly report any pest-related concerns to the COR or building management for action. | |
| 20 | Are there any catering services currently provided within the DOI building, either internally or through outside vendors? | There are catered events in the building. It is anticipated that catering will be funded by individual offices within the DOI buildling on a case by case basis. Section 3.10 has been added to the RFQ to provide additional information within Attachment 1 to the RFQ. | |
| 21 | What was the previous point of sale system used? | DOI does not have a record of which system was used previously. | |
| 22 | Is a wifi connection available and what are the security limitations and/or IT constraints that a vendor needs to operate within? | Devices need to be isolated from the internal network and should use the Internet of Things VLAN via physical network connections. DOI will provide the network and security services for these connections, the POS equipment and software would be the responsibility of the offeror. | |
| 23 | What are the security procedures for used the loading dock? | The procedures are standardized and apply to all those who use the building. The Security and Facility Offices will discuss the procedures for the awardee's approach after award as the approach for deliveries may vary between quoters. | |
| 24 | Are there any coffee machines and/or espresso machines that are working that could be used by the vendor and that are currently functional? | There are coffee and espresso machines. Their operating condition has not been confirmed. It is likely they are not functional at this time. | |
| 25 | Would multiple awards be considered? | No. But see response to question 17. | |
| 26 | What is the total capacity of the sitting area of the cafeteria area? And how much sitting does the outside area provide? | Cafeteria: approximately 200 seats |
Conference Rooms (2) used as “Reserved” Dining Room and/or for catered functions: approximately 80 seats.
| 27 | What is the current badge count for the building estimated to be on a daily basis? | 1,095 as of 13 January 2026. For calendar year 2025, the average was 659 badge swipes per day but it is expected the 2025 average is outdated |
| 28 | Is the Government aware if the Clover POS system could be used based on the IT and security requirements of DOI? | Devices need to be isolated from the internal network and should use the Internet of Things VLAN via physical network connections. DOI will provide the network and security services for these connections, the POS equipment and software would be the responsibility of the offeror. DOI would need to know the Ports, Protocols, Source and Destination information these specific device's needs to function properly. |
| 29 | Could the contract be for a longer term or for straight 5 year period of performance? | It has been updated to a 3 year base plus 2 one year options. |
| 30 | Any guidance on ways to not encroach on the RSA vendor's services in the buildling? | As described in “Reference 4 – GSA Level Descriptions” of this RFQ, the awardee will provide Level 7 Cafeteria Services. All services are to be delivered in alignment with the Level 7 definition, which is intended to cover full cafeteria operations. When performed as described, these services are designed to remain separate from, and not overlap with, the scope of any current or future Randolph-Sheppard Act (RSA) vendors. |
| 31 | Can you confirm that only 2 parking spots will be provided? Also is a parking pass provided that can be exchanged between employees, or are the parking spots assigned specific to only one person? | Only two will be provided and go with the individual. Metered street parking in the vicinity of the Udall Building is available but limited. Meters operate via the ParkMobile parking app, but most also accept coins and credit cards. There are also several public parking garages located within a few blocks of the building. |
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