Pursuant to FAR 6.302-1, the USDA Agricultural Research Service intends to negotiate on a sole source basis, with AKIMA Facilities Management, LLC a Three (3) month extension period and three one month extension options periods for a Firm Fixed Price modification for extension of services, with a small IDIQ component. The acquisition is to provide uninterrupted contractor support services to meet the operational mission of ERRC. Services shall be for facilities operations, maintenance and administrative support services at the Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC) in Wyndmoor Pennsylvania. The Contractor is required to provide services to maintain the facility in full support of the research mission. This bridge modification will allow enough time for the long term follow-on effort for the Operations and Maintenance Services requirement to be competed. By not awarding a modification to extend the period of performance for the bridge modification it would adversely impact the mission of the ERRC (In accordance with FAR 6.302(a)(2)).

The contractor is required to provide services that include but are not limited to: Work Management, Administrative Services, Facilities Services and Utility Services for a period starting April 1, 2013. The Contractor is also required to interface with other Contractors onsite.

ERRC is one of four Regional Research Centers whose scientists and engineers conduct mission oriented research directed toward the development of new methods and processes for: Detection and and characterization of Human Pathogens, Microbial Predictive Modeling, Sustainable agricultural practices and production of Bio-Fuels, Development of bio-based products, Effective Intervention and Innovative Technologies, Opening and Expanding domestic and foreign markets, Utilization of By-Products, Development of new Dairy products with improved functionality and Health Benefits. To that end, it is vital to the research mission of the WRRC that the incumbent continue to provide O&M support.

This six (6) month bridge modification extension (after exercising base and all option periods) is necessary to allow for sufficient time to complete the re-competition procedures for a new follow on contract. No other offeror could immediately perform all of the required services within the necessary time frame and period of performance of six (6) months is a sufficient timeframe in which to transition a new contractor. Therefore, AKIMA is uniquely qualified as the incumbent contractor to provide continuity of services to ARS. This notice is not a request for competitive bids, rather public notice as required to allow for a competitive follow-on Contract for the aforementioned service.

Questions can be emailed [email protected]. NAICS Code/Size is 561210. Point of Contact(s): Mark O. Volk, Contract Specialist, Fax 309-681-6618, Contracting Office Address: Eastern Business Service Center (EBSC) - Acquisitions, 1815 N. University, Peoria, IL 61604

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