Upgrade Phase III Chiller - Athens, GA

The USDA Agricultural Research Service is seeking contractors to upgrade a chiller system at the Richard B. Russell Agricultural Research Center in Athens, Georgia, through a Firm Fixed Price construction contract. The project involves demolishing an existing 400-ton chiller and installing a new 800-1000 ton water-cooled centrifugal chiller, along with associated mechanical, electrical, and control system upgrades including a new chilled water pump and modifications to the electrical infrastructure. Contractors must be registered in the System for Award Management and classified under NAICS code 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Contractors) with a size standard of $19 million. The evaluation process will include a mandatory site visit as an evaluation factor, with attendance by the prime contractor required due to the complexity of the 302-page specification document. The Request for Proposal (RFP 1232SA25R0014) is expected to be released on or around June 15, 2025, with proposals due June 25, 2025.

This opportunity is designated as a 100% HUBZone set-aside, restricting competition to qualified HUBZone certified small businesses. The contract value is estimated between $1-5 million, representing the third phase of a comprehensive cooling infrastructure improvement plan for the facility. The project requires completion within 365 consecutive calendar days after Notice to Proceed, though the NTP will not be issued until all required submittals are approved. The scope includes installing a new 900-ton chiller system with associated piping (12-inch condenser water and 10-inch chilled water), electrical upgrades, and integration with existing control systems. No incumbent contractor information was provided in the notice, and all communications regarding the solicitation will be conducted electronically through sam.gov.