CAVE 332397 Replace Main Distribution System

The National Park Service Denver Service Center is seeking to replace the main water distribution system at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico through a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul project. The existing water infrastructure, originally installed between 1932-1964, requires frequent repairs and does not meet current fire code standards, making complete replacement essential to protect the caverns below and support ongoing park operations. Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov under NAICS code 237110 (Distribution Line, Sewer and Water Construction) with a size standard of $45 million. The evaluation will utilize a best-value trade-off process where technical factors significantly outweigh price considerations, with key evaluation criteria including project experience, technical and management approach, schedule planning, key personnel experience, and past performance history. The formal Request for Proposal (RFP 140P2025R0122) will be released on SAM.gov on October 15, 2025.

This procurement does not include any set-aside designations and will be awarded as a Firm-Fixed-Price contract requiring bid, performance, and payment bonds from the successful contractor. The estimated project value ranges between $5-10 million, reflecting the substantial scope of completely replacing the aging water distribution infrastructure rather than conducting piecemeal repairs. The contract performance period is established at 1,095 calendar days, providing approximately three years for project completion. No information regarding potential incumbents or current contractors was provided in the pre-solicitation documentation, suggesting this may represent a new competitive opportunity for qualified water and sewer construction firms.