Y -- Seeking comments on procurement method for proposed FY 08 project to construct a new indoor Aquatic Training Facility for the Aviation Technical Training Center , Elizabeth City, NC

The U.S. Coast Guard Facilities Design and Construction Center, Atlantic is seeking input on the procurement method for a proposed $13 million project in Fiscal Year 2008 to build a new indoor Aquatic Training Facility at the Aviation Technical Training Center in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. This facility is intended to support the Coast Guard's Rescue Swimmer Training program and will include a 50 by 25 meter pool with a 12-foot deep end. Key features of the aquatic center include an elevated platform, controlled pool temperature, a METS dunker to simulate helicopter or plane egress, underwater viewing areas, a rotor wash simulator, and a wave generator to mimic open water conditions. Additional spaces will include an inclement weather physical training room, wet and dry storage, locker and shower facilities for both genders, classrooms, parachute packing and drying areas, office space, compressed air systems for SCUBA and raft inflation, an oxygen lab, and soundproofed sections. The Coast Guard is specifically requesting comments on whether this project should follow a design/build approach or a traditional design, bid, and build process, with responses to be supported by rationale. Interested parties are asked to submit their feedback via email to the contracting officer, Cathy M. Broussard, by March 15, 2007. The contract reference number is 32-X3617, and the solicitation is managed through the Department of Homeland Security’s Facilities Design and Construction Center located in Norfolk, Virginia. This input will help determine the best procurement strategy for delivering this specialized and technologically sophisticated training facility.