A13.Brand_Name_JA,_for_posting_Redacted.pdf

Brand Name Justification U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District

FAR 13.106-1; Purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold

Contracting Activity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, Rock Island, IL

Description of Action: This action will result in a firm fixed price type contract projected for award in fiscal year 2018. The estimated dollar value is under $150,000.00 and will not include option provisions. An acquisition plan is not required due to the requirement not meeting the dollar required dollar threshold.

Description of Supply: Multiple styles and dimension Hollaender brand fittings, fasteners and guardrail systems at Lock and Dams 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 and 22.

Authority Cited: As described at FAR 13.106-1(b) (1), for purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization.

The Mississippi River Operations Division currently has Hollaender brand guardrail systems installed at other Lock and Dam locations within their area of operation. The handrail and guardrail systems at the Locks and Dams provide a protective barrier around the lock walls of each chamber for USACE operators and commercial vessel deckhands. The railing tops serve as guide rails for tow cables utilized in locking operations when a commercial vessel or barge locks through in sections versus a whole vessel.

The Operations Division presently maintains a supply of multiple sizes of the Hollaender brand guardrail systems as replacement inventory for routine preventative maintenance and repairs. In order to assure compatibility and interchangeability among pieces, the connecting components of the system must meet the form, fit and function of the system already being utilized.

Since the District currently maintains stock of the Hollaender material, converting or transitioning to a different style guardrail system and ancillary fitting components would cause an unjustifiable cost burden to the Operations Division and the District. The cost of re-engineering a design system that is presently in place and a potentially un-utilizing material already purchased and maintained is not advantageous to the Government.

Brand Name Justification