Presolicitation l 650-22-103 l Replace Primary Substation

The Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Veterans Integrated Service Network 1 is seeking construction services to replace the primary electrical substation at the Providence VA Health Care System in Rhode Island. The project involves constructing a new outdoor utility substation adjacent to the existing one, with the requirement to maintain operational capacity during the transition and accommodate the current load configuration plus two additional circuit breakers for future needs. The contract will have a performance period of 630 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed, with work typically conducted Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM EST. Key deliverables will include a project schedule, construction material submittals, infection control and safety plans, and as-built drawings. The formal solicitation (36C24125R0014) is expected to be posted on SAM.gov approximately 15 days after the pre-solicitation notice, with responses due by December 20, 2024, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time.

The contract opportunity is set aside exclusively for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) under NAICS code 237130 for Power and Communication Line and Related Structures Construction. Interested contractors must maintain active SAM registration and SDVOSB certification through veterans.certify.sba.gov. The project will involve constructing approximately 500 feet of underground duct bank, site preparation, equipment pads, manholes, and conduits, with all work needing to conform to VA Master Construction Specifications and applicable technical standards. While specific award value is not disclosed, the complexity of the project suggests a significant infrastructure investment. Contractors will be required to coordinate with local utility providers, ensure continuous power during the substation transition, and participate in monthly progress meetings with the Contracting Officer, who must approve any modifications via SF-30 form before implementation.