Building 63 Envelope and HVAC Renovation, Coral Gables

The USDA Subtropical Horticulture Research Station in Coral Gables, Florida, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation of Building 63 to address critical HVAC and building envelope issues. The facility, comprising approximately 6,000 square feet of lab and office space, suffers from excessive humidity levels exceeding 70%, caused by condensation in the existing ductwork that has resulted in water damage. The current HVAC system, consisting of a single air-cooled chiller, associated pumps, and two variable air volume air handling units, is inadequate for maintaining proper environmental controls essential for sensitive research operations. The scope of work includes the renovation of the roof, replacement and upgrade of the HVAC system, modernization of the building automation system (BAS), and replacement of the chiller, all based on detailed designs and retrocommissioning studies prepared by A&E firm Clark Nexsen. The work must be completed in accordance with stringent technical specifications spanning Divisions 00 through 26, with adherence to ASTM, UL, NFPA, ICC IBC, and other applicable national standards. All materials, including insulation, cold-formed steel framing, and plywood, must comply with specific preservation, labeling, and marking requirements to prevent corrosion, moisture damage, and ensure traceability and safety. This is a total small business set-aside under NAICS code 238220 with a solicitation deadline of August 19, 2026, and is governed by a non-trade-off evaluation process that prioritizes technical capability and past performance over price, with award going to the highest technically rated offeror whose price is determined to be fair and reasonable. Contractual requirements are extensive and include mandatory performance and payment bonds, an irrevocable letter of credit, and multiple clauses related to labor standards, safety, environmental compliance, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Contractors must comply with Buy American requirements, report biobased product usage, and adhere to strict safety protocols including the designation of a certified Site Safety and Health Officer and Competent Persons for hazardous operations. Prohibited materials include asbestos, lead paint, mercury, PCBs, hexavalent chromium, and diisocyanates, with smoking and substance use banned within 25 feet of building entries. All work will be inspected and accepted at the project site, with final authority residing with the Government, and contractors are responsible for submitting certified test reports, operational results, and service documentation. Payment will be executed electronically through SAM.gov, and all offerors must be SAM