Replace Chiller Bldg 89

The Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service is soliciting quotations for the replacement of an air-cooled chiller system at Building 89 of the Subtropical Horticulture Research facility in Miami, Florida, under solicitation number 1232SA26Q0166. The scope of work requires complete decommissioning and removal of the existing Smardt chiller and furnishing and installation of a new 156.2-ton air-cooled chiller system, preferably a Daikin ACCH-160T model or equivalent, with full integration into existing building systems, comprehensive commissioning, and operator training. Key contract requirements include proof of prime contractor HVAC licensing and certification with documented personnel certifications, at least one reference demonstrating recent and relevant experience with coastal Miami-Dade installations, recovery of refrigerant in compliance with EPA Section 608 regulations, and a 72-hour continuous operation test. Award will be made to the offeror representing best value based on meeting all requirements, proper documentation submission, HVAC licensing and certification proof, and satisfactory reference checks, with the Service Contract Labor Standards applying a prevailing wage rate of $28.95 per hour for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning mechanics. The quotation deadline is March 4, 2026, and a mandatory site visit is scheduled for February 20, 2026 at 1:30 PM EST, with registration required by emailing david.reynolds2@usda.gov by 9:00 AM EST that same day.

This acquisition is set-aside exclusively for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB), though all responsible sources may submit quotations for agency consideration. No incumbent contractor is identified in the solicitation documents. The contract is anticipated to be a firm fixed-price award with one contractor selected, and offerors must hold prices firm for 60 calendar days from the offer receipt date. The project must be completed within 120 days of Notice to Proceed, with work coordinated during normal duty hours (Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) to minimize disruption to facility operations. Performance will occur at the SEA Subtropical Horticulture Research Center located at 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL 33158, and the contractor must provide one year of service, repairs, and troubleshooting beginning on the date of final acceptance, with service company availability for the selected equipment required within 60 miles to ensure prompt response.