Compressed Gas Systems Replacement for the DSHS Laboratory

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are seeking bids for a Compressed Gas Systems Replacement project at the Dr. Bob Glaze Laboratory Building in Austin, Texas. The procurement involves replacing over 20-year-old manual compressed gas switching shuttle valve stations with new automatic switching shuttle valve stations for multiple compressed gases including CO2, HPN2, UHPN2, and Argon. Bidders must have a minimum of five years of experience with compressed gas distribution system installation and provide personnel with at least three years of relevant experience. Mandatory on-site visits are scheduled for May 13 and 15, 2025, with the response deadline set for May 26, 2025, at 10:30 AM. The contract will be awarded based on best value to the state, considering factors such as meeting specifications, performance delivery capabilities, and price. Bidders are required to submit a comprehensive package including HHS Solicitation Affirmations, a Pricing Sheet, Bidder Reference Qualifications Form, and a HUB Subcontracting Plan. The initial contract term will begin upon award and expire on August 31, 2025, with no renewal options.

The solicitation includes provisions for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUB) through a required subcontracting plan, indicating a preference for diverse vendor participation. Bidders must comply with specific insurance requirements, including workers' compensation, commercial general liability, and professional liability insurance with defined coverage limits. The procurement includes several restrictions, such as compliance with E-Verify for employment eligibility, prohibitions on doing business with certain foreign entities, and restrictions on boycotts of Israel and energy companies. While a specific budget range is not explicitly stated, the detailed technical requirements and comprehensive documentation suggest a significant investment in modernizing the laboratory's compressed gas infrastructure. Vendors must complete a Texas Identification Number application and demonstrate compliance with numerous state and federal regulations, including cybersecurity standards, anti-discrimination laws, and various statutory requirements. The procurement is open to various business types, with a focus on technical capability, experience, and adherence to state procurement guidelines.