Request for Information-FEMS-National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Class II Steel-Hull Fireboat ? Design and Construction

The District of Columbia's Fire and Emergency Medical Services (FEMS) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking detailed input on the design and construction of a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Class II Steel-Hull Fireboat. This procurement opportunity is focused on gathering comprehensive technical specifications, design considerations, and construction methodologies for a specialized marine firefighting vessel. The RFI aims to collect critical information from potential vendors, manufacturers, and marine engineering experts who can provide insights into the development of a high-performance fireboat that meets the specific operational requirements of the District of Columbia's emergency response fleet. Responses are expected to address technical capabilities, construction standards, performance metrics, and innovative design approaches that align with NFPA guidelines for Class II Steel-Hull Fireboats. The solicitation was posted on October 29, 2025, with a response deadline of November 18, 2025, providing potential respondents approximately three weeks to compile and submit their detailed information packages.

While specific set-aside designations are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, government procurement opportunities typically encourage participation from disadvantaged business enterprises, small businesses, and local vendors. The RFI suggests the District of Columbia is in the preliminary stages of exploring fireboat procurement, which implies potential future competitive bidding processes may follow this initial information-gathering phase. Without concrete budget figures disclosed, similar municipal fireboat procurements have historically ranged from $3 million to $7 million, depending on vessel specifications, technological capabilities, and customization requirements. The procurement appears focused on replacing or expanding the current marine firefighting capabilities of FEMS, indicating a strategic investment in emergency response infrastructure. Potential respondents should be prepared to demonstrate expertise in marine vessel design, firefighting equipment integration, and compliance with national safety standards specific to maritime emergency response platforms.