J -- Intent to Sole Source - Cepheid Upgrade Services

The U.S. EPA Gulf Ecology Division intends to award a sole source Firm Fixed Price contract to Cepheid Inc. for the upgrade of existing equipment, specifically the Cepheid SmartCycler I. This acquisition will be conducted under Simplified Acquisition Procedures in compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 6.302-1, which allows for awarding contracts without full and open competition. The purpose of this contract is to enhance the current equipment used by the EPA, ensuring it meets updated operational requirements. The anticipated date for awarding this contract is July 3, 2006. This notice serves solely as an announcement of the intent to sole source and is not a solicitation for offers. Interested parties may submit written inquiries or comments via email to the designated EPA contact. The contract falls under the NAICS code 811310, indicating it pertains to equipment maintenance and repair services. The acquisition approach streamlines procurement while adhering to regulatory guidelines for non-competitive contracting within the federal framework.