Mill Branch Wastewater Pumping Station (WWPS) HVAC and Odor Control Improvements

The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) has issued a solicitation for the Mill Branch Wastewater Pumping Station (WWPS) HVAC and Odor Control Improvements project, located in Bowie, Prince George’s County, Maryland. The project involves comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and structural upgrades to the existing facility to enhance its heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), odor control, and related infrastructure in compliance with relevant safety and performance standards including NFPA 820. Major work components include replacement of the HVAC systems along with associated piping and ductwork, installation of a larger odor control unit with updated related piping and instrumentation, provision of temporary mechanical equipment to maintain ventilation during construction, replacement of control panels and gas monitoring instrumentation, electrical system upgrades including new lighting and panel connections, as well as minor structural and architectural modifications such as foundation pad alterations, new wall openings, and door replacements. The overall effort requires coordination among multiple trades and adherence to stringent engineering specifications and local regulatory codes such as IMC, NFPA, NEC, and IBC. Bids must be submitted electronically via WSSC’s eProcurement Portal prior to the stated deadline, with strict adherence to submission format, timely delivery, and full compliance with required documentation. The solicitation emphasizes the importance of contractor qualifications, requiring licensing and demonstrable experience in wastewater treatment facility projects. Key contract provisions include mandatory security clearance for access to confidential project plans, a 5% bid guarantee, and 100% performance, payment, and maintenance bonds. The project mandates robust safety and health program compliance, with dedicated onsite safety personnel meeting OSHA and related certification criteria. Evaluation criteria pivot on meeting technical specifications, achieving required Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) participation goals through good faith efforts, responsiveness, and lowest total base bid pricing. Although standard FAR clauses are not explicitly enumerated, contract documents incorporate agency-specific conditions and require strict observance of packaging, marking, inspection, and acceptance protocols. Delivery and performance duties are site-specific at Mill Branch WWPS, with all equipment and materials to be installed and verified onsite under comprehensive quality and operational testing provisions, including a minimum 30-day satisfactory operational period for pump systems. The solicitation also requires detailed submittals such as working drawings, certifications, and hazardous materials handling reports to ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations, facilitating a transparent, fair, and technically sound procurement process.