Upgrade Sanitary and Storm Systems at the National Museum of Natural History
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Smithsonian Institution is seeking offers for a Firm Fixed-Price construction contract to upgrade Sanitary and Storm Systems at the National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) in Washington, DC. This project, estimated to exceed $10 Million, involves replacing existing infrastructure with extreme care to protect museum collections, exhibits, and historic architecture. Proposals are due June 3, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST.
Scope of Work
The comprehensive scope includes:
- Installation of new sanitary and stormwater piping systems throughout the Museum Main Building, East and West Wings.
- Rerouting piping to avoid sensitive areas and capping/removing abandoned sections.
- Lead and asbestos abatement as necessary.
- Installation of new piping within the existing tunnel system and tie-ins to external SI infrastructure.
- Development of an erosion and sediment control plan.
- Inspection, replacement, and sealing of roof scuppers. All work must comply with applicable codes, historic preservation requirements, and safety regulations, minimizing disruption to museum operations.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Type: Firm Fixed-Price construction contract.
- Estimated Value: Exceeds $10 Million (FY26 funding increment is $8.5M).
- Period of Performance: 740 calendar days from Notice to Proceed.
- Wage Rates: Davis Bacon Building Wage Determination DC20260002 applies.
- Bonds: Performance (SF 25) and Payment (SF 25A) Bonds are required.
Set-Aside & Evaluation
This opportunity includes subcontracting goals of 40% for small business concerns and 7% for Service-Disabled Veteran-owned small businesses (SDV). Award will be based on a best-value tradeoff, considering technical factors (Plan of Accomplishment, Past Performance, Safety Performance, Key Personnel, Subcontractors) and cost.
Key Dates & Submission
- Proposal Due Date: June 3, 2026, at 3:00 PM EST.
- RFI Due Date: May 4, 2026.
- Final Walk Through: April 27, 2026.
- Pre-proposal Meeting: March 27, 2026. Proposals must be submitted as PDF files (Technical, Cost, Subcontracting Plan) via a provided Dropbox link.
Important Documents
Bidders should review the comprehensive Bid Set Drawings (Volumes 1-3), Specifications (Volumes 1-2, Appendix), Design Manual, Multi-Year Funding Document, and Bid Schedule spreadsheet for detailed technical and pricing requirements. Amendments 0001-0005 provide critical updates, including RFI responses and the latest proposal due date.