Notice of Intent to Sole Source Comparison of Post-9/11 Cancer Incidence among Pace University Employees on Manhattan and Westchester Campuses

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention intends to award a sole source contract to The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research (Northwell) for a study of Post-9/11 Cancer Incidence among Pace University Employees. Pace University is a private institution with a New York City campus in the Financial District of lower Manhattan, and two campuses in Westchester County, New York, in Pleasantville and White Plains. Following the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC), the Manhattan campus was officially closed for three weeks; due to its proximity to Ground Zero (less than 0.5 miles), access was restricted due to logistic and safety concerns, with moderate visible dust contamination in most campus buildings. The purpose of the study is to determine whether employees’ rates of cancer are increased relative to expected rates, and if found, whether the increase could be attributed to working and/or residing in lower Manhattan following 9/11.  The existence of an internal comparison group --- faculty and staff working at the Westchester campuses and not residing in lower Manhattan – presents a unique opportunity to evaluate the impact of WTC dust exposure among non- rescue/recovery workers employed near Ground Zero.

This contract action is for supplies or services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 and 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(1). Northwell is the only responsible source capable of working with Pace University to provide these services to WTCHP. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals.

This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, all quotations/responses received within fifteen (15) days of the issuance of this notice will be considered by the government. A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement. Any response should be emailed to contract specialist at kpy2@cdc.gov.