Barillas Peak & Encino Vista Lookout Tower Restoration, Santa Fe NF

Background
The USDA Forest Service is issuing this solicitation for the Barillas Peak & Encino Vista Lookout Tower Restoration project, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of lookout towers within the Santa Fe National Forest. The project is set aside for small business concerns, with a focus on commercial and institutional building construction.

Work Details
The contractor will be responsible for the design, removal, and replacement of the Barillas Lookout Tower cab, including installation of a new cab and comprehensive lightning protection system. The work includes:

1. Removal of existing lookout tower cab and associated equipment from federal land, ensuring proper disposal per regulations.

2. Submission of a full design package for the new cabin that includes furniture, appliances, access hatch, windows, canopy, flooring, metal shutters for winterization, handrails, guardrails, fencing for stairs, and required fire finder equipment.

3. Installation of a solar power system with backup propane generator and associated controls.

4. Installation of a lightning protection and grounding system.

5. Construction of a CMU toilet building and supplemental communications technology. An optional bid item includes similar upgrades to the Encino Vista Lookout Tower.

Period of Performance
The contractor must commence work within 10 calendar days after receiving notice to proceed and complete all work within 548 calendar days.

Place of Performance
The project locations are Barillas Peak Lookout Tower in the Pecos Las Vegas Ranger District and Encino Vista Lookout Tower in the Coyote Ranger District of the Santa Fe National Forest.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be small business concerns as this acquisition is a Total Small Business Set-Aside. A 20% bid bond is required with the quote package. Contractors must provide performance and payment bonds within 10 calendar days after award.