This is a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Phase 2 construction of the Arabian Leopard Facility at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. The project includes habitat areas and an animal care building. It is a two-step solicitation process. Firms must be registered in SAM. gov. The estimated construction cost exceeds $10 million. Questions are due by July 3, 2026, and Statements of Qualifications (SOQ) are due by July 17, 2026. Construction is anticipated to be completed by September 2028, with public opening in January 2029.
The Smithsonian expects contractor turnover of the ALF for the receipt of the living collection upon substantial completion due at the end of summer 2028. The new ALF will open to the public in early January 2029. The total period of performance for construction services is 19 months from issuance of the notice to proceed in February 2027 through substantial completion in September 2028.
Firm evaluation and selection will be conducted in accordance with FAR Part 15, best value procurement, utilizing a two-step procurement model. Step one of the RFP will consist of a list of prequalifying criteria. Companies which are advanced to step two of the RFP will be evaluated in accordance with the technical criteria as set forth in the RFP.
The successful contractor shall be experienced and fully qualified with critical elements of the project, including working within an occupied, historic campus, coordination of specialty trades, installation of specialty animal doors, transfer systems, radiant flooring, animal containment fencing, shotcrete faux rock, mitigation of sound and vibration, and compliance with LEED criteria. Firms must be registered in SAM. gov.
Lack of registration in the SAM database will make an offeror ineligible for award.
The estimated construction cost will exceed 10 million.
