Sole Source Ventilated Cage_Redacted IVC OKC.pdf

This is a Request for Sole Source Justification (J&A) for Other Than Full and Open Competition filed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 19, Oklahoma City VA Medical Center, is procuring Individually Ventilated Cage (IVC) systems for rats and mice through the RPO-E research acquisition team via a new, firm-fixed-price contract. The procurement is a one-time purchase funded through a LAMb grant awarded specifically for acquiring equipment from Allentown, Inc., the designated vendor. The acquisition includes two IVC racks for mice (160 cages each) and two IVC racks for rats (70 cages each), plus a bedding dispenser and numerous compatible components such as cage assemblies, micro barrier tops, feeder trays, hose assemblies, blowers, and media holders. The total contract value is redacted in the document. The justification cites 41 USC §3304(a)(1) as the statutory authority, asserting that Allentown, Inc. is the only responsible source capable of meeting the Government's specific veterinary research requirements due to the proprietary nature of its IVC systems and the need for full compatibility with existing VMU infrastructure. Market research confirmed no other manufacturers can provide equipment meeting established technical specifications, including identical stacking lugs, Air Kup configurations, Edstrom EZ-Lock watering mechanisms, and Ecoflo blower system compatibility. The document emphasizes that standardization is essential for interchangeability, minimizing disruptions during sanitation, and preserving consistent housing conditions critical for reliable research outcomes. Acquisition ID: 36C24E-27-AP-0020.