TDCJ-Sampling Water and Analysis Services

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) is soliciting bids for Sampling Water and Analysis Services for its Estelle Unit in Huntsville, Texas, through an Invitation for Bids (IFB) numbered IW223624. The procurement covers comprehensive wastewater treatment plant contract analysis services to meet Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit requirements. Specific services include routine influent testing (twice weekly), aeration testing (twice weekly), effluent testing (weekly), sludge analysis, metals testing, and permit renewal, utilizing various sample types such as grab and composite samples. The base contract term is from September 1, 2025, through August 31, 2026, with options to renew for four additional one-year periods through August 31, 2030. Bidders must be accredited laboratories with capability to conduct detailed environmental testing, provide weekly and monthly reporting to TDCJ's Unit Maintenance and Facilities Division Environmental Department, and comply with Texas Administrative Code testing procedures. The bid is scheduled to open on July 30, 2025, at 3 P.M., with electronic submission preferred to bids@tdcj.texas.gov and one original hard copy required.

The solicitation does not specify explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must provide comprehensive insurance coverage with minimum liability limits of $1,000,000 and meet stringent qualification requirements including background checks, staff conduct guidelines, and compliance with TDCJ security procedures. Potential bidders should be prepared for security-related delays when accessing TDCJ facilities and must understand that contract funding is contingent on legislative appropriations. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the contract will be awarded as a single contract covering all units, with potential for price adjustments during renewal periods based on market surveys. Bidders are subject to performance tracking under Texas Government Code and may be disqualified for various infractions. The contract emphasizes vendor integrity, technical competence, and strict adherence to environmental testing protocols, with evaluations likely based on comprehensive factors including pricing, technical capability, compliance history, and overall best value to the state.