D -- Enhancement of the NIST Optical Network Simulation Tool

The Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plans to award a sole source contract to Towson University for the enhancement of the NIST Optical Network Simulation Tool. This contract is intended to sustain ongoing research on optical networks and support the development of specialized software for the Advanced Network Technologies Division. The decision to pursue a sole source procurement under FAR Subsection 13.106-1(b) stems from the unique expertise of Professor Yangon Kim and his team at Towson University, who originally designed the graphical user interface and the integration with the core simulation engine. Their direct involvement ensures they can efficiently continue the required development work without delay. The procurement will take the form of a firm-fixed-price purchase order, and no request for quotations will be issued. Although this notice is not a solicitation, interested parties may submit written statements of their capabilities for consideration, although any determination to compete the requirement remains at the Government’s discretion. The contract will be managed by the Department of Commerce’s NIST office located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, with Jo-Lynn S. Davis serving as the Contract Specialist point of contact.