DRAFT REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) - Aerospace Power Systems Laboratory (APSL) Facility

NASA Glenn Research Center issued a draft Request for Proposals (DRFP) for a two-phase design-build contract to construct an Aerospace Power Systems Laboratory (APSL) facility in Cleveland, Ohio, with Phase 1 proposals due August 27, 2026. This is a draft solicitation; a final RFP may be issued later. Potential offeror feedback on the DRFP must be submitted by August 10, 2026 to john.a.christel@nasa.gov.

Phase 1 awards $150,000 stipends to three down-selected firms for conceptual design and technical proposals, with performance from September 23, 2026 through May 28, 2027. Phase 1 evaluation uses best value tradeoff criteria—technical approach, technical qualifications, and past performance—excluding cost. Phase 2, initiated via RFP to the three Phase 1 awardees on or about November 2, 2026, will select a single final awardee for complete design (CLIN 0002), construction services (CLIN 0003), and potential incentive awards (CLIN 0004), with performance through March 1, 2030.

The approximately 34,000-square-foot facility will support aerospace power systems testing and development, including high-bay test areas with overhead cranes, cryogenic distribution, and specialized life safety systems. The facility must achieve LEED Silver or equivalent sustainability certification. Design-Build teams must include both a Designer of Record and construction contractor(s), with minimum bonding capacity of $45 million. Project Labor Agreements apply. The contract is Firm Fixed-Price. NAICS 236220 applies with a $45 million small business size standard.