66--Notice of Intent to Sole Source

The ERDC Contracting Office plans to award a contract on a sole source basis to MTS Systems Corporation for the acquisition of the MTS FlexTest 40 controller, which is required to upgrade an existing MTS 318.10 load frame using a TestStar Classic Controller. This action is justified under FAR 13.501 as MTS is the only known supplier capable of providing this specific commercial item in accordance with FAR part 12. The contract seeks to procure this item without competitive bidding, although interested parties may submit written statements of their capabilities and qualifications by 1:00 p.m. CST on September 7, 2010, for consideration on whether to open the procurement to competition. Responses will be evaluated solely to determine if the government should proceed with a competitive process; however, the decision not to compete remains solely at the government's discretion. No Requests for Proposals will be issued based on this notice, and only written communications sent to the specified contact with the solicitation number referenced will be accepted. The contract aligns with NAICS code 334519 and reflects a procurement process focusing on a unique commercial product essential for updating the load frame system.