66--INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE

The US Army Corps of Engineers, Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) Contracting Office plans to issue a sole source contract to Applied Research Associates, INC DBA Vertek for the procurement of spare parts specifically for Cone Penetrometer Test Equipment. This decision is based on the proprietary nature of the parts, which can only be supplied by this single vendor, making them the sole source under the authority outlined in FAR 13.106-1(b). The acquisition will follow simplified acquisition procedures in accordance with FAR Part 13, and no competitive solicitation will be issued. While this is not a request for competitive proposals, other responsible sources are invited to submit capability statements, proposals, or quotations for government consideration by the deadline of 9:00 AM CST on May 9, 2011. Interested parties may contact the contract specialist via the provided email address. The contract, identified by solicitation number W81EWF10917832, falls under the NAICS code 541380, which relates to testing laboratories and research services. This streamlined procurement approach ensures timely acquisition while acknowledging the unique supplier restrictions surrounding the equipment's proprietary components.