Sign Language Interpreting Services

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is developing an acquisition strategy for a Contractor to provide sign language interpretation services for DOT employees and for DOT-sponsored events. As part of this process, we are seeking information about small businesses that are capable of providing these services. Please note that this is a market survey for informational purposes only and is not a Solicitation. There is no solicitation document available at this time; no contract will be awarded based on this announcement; and no reimbursement will be made for costs associated with responding to this announcement. All responses must be submitted via e-mail in accordance with the instructions that follow. The Contractor shall: - Provide video interpreting services using a secure internet-based connection. - Provide interpretation for legal proceedings. - Provide standard interpretation services utilizing skilled staff who are able to obtain a DOT identification/access card. - Provides services within two (2) hours of the request. - Have phone and fax capability and be equipped with a TTY or equivalent communication system, with a video phone to communicate with DOT personnel. - Provide a coordinator due to the number of employees who require services at DOT headquarters. - Provide interpreters for locations other than DOT Headquarters, such as L'Enfant Plaza, Federal Aviation Administration Headquarters on Independence Avenue and Federal Highway Administration facilities in Balston, Sterling and McLean. On average, DOT uses 1300 hours of sign language services each month, with hours varying between approximately 1100 and 1800 hours. Only about 15-20% of requests are for Monday and Friday combined. The Contractor will be required to meet a wide variance in demand from day to day, and from month to month, often with short notice of 24 hours or less. Responses to this announcement must provide detailed, concise information about the company's qualifications and experience in services similar to those described herein, and how it will meet the staffing requirements. In addition, the response must state small business size status (small; 8(a); small disadvantaged; HUBZone, service disabled, veteran owned, etc.) and not exceed five (5) pages. All responses must be submitted electronically to laurel.williams@dot.gov and be received no later than August 6, 2008.