Newport observatory RAM pump replacement

The United States Geological Survey seeks replacement of an existing ram pump system at the Newport Magnetic Observatory in Newport, Washington, with quotes due September 11, 2026 at 12:00 PM EDT. This is a Total Small Business Set-Aside under the 19 million dollar small business size standard for NAICS 811310 (Machinery Repair and Maintenance).

Place of performance is Newport, Washington. Work spans approximately 3,500 feet from a spring box on U.S. Forest Service land to a pumphouse near the observatory's front gate. The project runs September 21 through December 31, 2026, with completion required within 90 calendar days of Notice to Proceed, excluding weekends and holidays unless preauthorized. Normal working hours are 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday through Friday; requests for weekend and holiday work require government approval.

The scope includes demolition of the existing ram pump and vault infrastructure, installation of a new electric pump system with metal base plate, upgrading the spring box with new CMU blocks and cap, installing a hydroelectric turbine on the spring box discharge flange, constructing a new aluminum electrical enclosure with battery boxes and charger/inverter, installing a new altitude valve, and training onsite USGS personnel. The contractor must furnish all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision; no utility power is available on site, so the contractor must provide portable generators.

Bidders must demonstrate experience with three relevant projects in concrete lining, repair, patching, or structural restoration within the past two years. All workers require OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour Construction Safety training verification. Prevailing wage rates apply under the Davis-Bacon Act. Award will be made using Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation on a pass/fail basis. Payment bond and liability insurance ($250,000 per person, $500,000 per occurrence, $250,000 property damage) are due within 10 days of award. Questions close September 2 at 12:00 PM EDT. A non-mandatory site visit is scheduled for August 27 at 1:00 PM.