NIDA intends to negotiate on a sole-source basis with The University of Miami for a project titled "The National Hispanic Science Network (NHSN) on Drug Abuse." The University of Miami will continue to provide development and implementation of the existing NHSN. The purpose of this contract is to foster drug abuse research and research training among Hispanics and the application of science findings to practice and public health. We anticipate awarding a 5-year contract. Statutory authority to justify this procurement is 41 U.S.C. 253 (c)(1) as set forth in the FAR 6.320-1, Only One Responsible Source. Inherent duplication of cost to the Government and unacceptable delays in providing the required services make competition unfeasible.

The proposed contract action is for supplies or services for which the Government intends to solicit and negotiate with only one source under the authority of FAR 6.302. Interested persons may identify their interest and capability to respond to the requirement or submit proposals. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. However, all proposals received within forty-five days (by January 14, 2009) after date of publication of this synopsis will be considered by the Government. A determination by the Government not to compete with this proposed contract based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.

Based upon market research, the Government is not using the policies contained in Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items, in its solicitation for the described supplies or services. However, interested persons may identify to the contracting officer their interest and capability to satisfy the Government's requirement with a commercial item within 15 days of this notice.