The U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Weather Service (NWS), intends to negotiate on a sole source, fixed-price basis, a contract with The University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez, Call Box 9000, Mayaguez, Puerto Rico 00681-9000. In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.203, the purpose of this notice is to inform the public of the Government's intentions with respect to an upcoming acquisition.

The University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez runs the Puerto Rico Seismic Network (PRSN), which provides the NWS and its Tsunami Warning Centers real-time data which are used to issue timely and accurate tsunami forecasts and other warnings. The PRSN operates this network of 18 broadband stations and 6 short period stations throughout Puerto Rico, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands and the eastern Domincan republic. The data from these stations are used to determine the location and magnitude of an earthquake and the possibility of a tsunami or other event. The continued procurement of data from the PRSN is critical for NOAA to maintain its responsibility for providing accurate and timely warnings to protect people and commerce. No other entity has the capability to provide this information to NOAA. Accordingly, pursuant to FAR 6.302-1, NOAA will negotiate with the University of Puerto for award.

Notwithstanding the Government's intent to negotiate on a sole source basis, responsible sources may submit a response which, if timely received, will be considered by NOAA.
Responses must be submitted by Thursday September 13, 2012 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time.

Bid Protests Not Available