HVAC Replacement for Tree Coolers

The USDA Forest Service is seeking contractors to provide complete removal and disposal of existing HVAC systems and installation of new refrigeration equipment for two tree coolers located at the Ninemile Ranger District in Lolo National Forest, Montana. The project requires replacement of antiquated HVAC systems with new refrigeration units capable of maintaining precise temperature control between 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit, including specific technical requirements for refrigerants (R-404A or R-448A), evaporator fans, drain lines, centrifugal humidifiers, and environmental controllers with warning alarms. Contractors must provide certified HVAC technicians and electricians, submit technical proposals covering their experience in HVAC services, quality control plans, detailed equipment specifications, and past performance information. The government will evaluate offers based on price, equipment and materials, contractor quality assurance plan, experience, and past performance, with the intent to award to the lowest price technically acceptable offeror. Critical deadlines include questions due to Sarah Cotton at sarah.cotton@usda.gov by September 18, 2025 at 12:00 pm MST, quotes due by September 22, 2025 at 5:00 pm MST, and a mandatory site visit scheduled for September 17, 2025 at 9:00 am MST.

This solicitation is set aside exclusively for small business vendors under the Total Small Business set-aside program, with no incumbent contractors identified in the documentation. The contract is structured as a firm fixed-price requirement with a 90-day delivery timeline after award and a performance period from September 30, 2025 to December 29, 2025. The project involves two nearly identical walk-in tree coolers, each measuring 18.5 feet wide, 20.5 feet long, and 10.8 feet high, manufactured by Bally Case & Cooler, Inc., which are used to store tree seedlings at full capacity for 2-4 months during spring or fall planting seasons. Work will be performed at the Ninemile Remount Depot and Historic Ranger Station located at 20325 Remount Rd, Huson, MT 59846, approximately one mile from the Ninemile Ranger District. All quotes must remain valid for 90 days, and contractors must comply with applicable wage determinations under the Service Contract Act for Montana County of Missoula.