How to bid on Calcasieu River Maintenance Dredging FY26 for the Dept of the Army

What the agency is buying

The Department of the Army is seeking a contractor for maintenance dredging of the Calcasieu River Ship Channel. This project covers the section from Mile 5.0 to Mile 17.0 in Calcasieu and Cameron Parishes, Louisiana.

The work involves removing material from the channel and disposing of it in designated confined disposal facilities nearby. Key tasks include retention dike construction and surveys. There is also optional work for material removal at Devil’s Elbow and optional ditching and draining of disposal areas.

This is a significant construction opportunity, with an estimated value between $25 million and $100 million. It is an unrestricted procurement, meaning all eligible businesses can compete.

Key dates and deadlines

This solicitation was published on June 12, 2026. The deadline for proposals is June 12, 2028, at 11:00 AM ET. All responses must be submitted by this time.

The exact bid opening date will be established later through an amendment to the solicitation. Vendors should monitor the official portal for updates.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is best suited for construction firms with experience in dredging, marine construction, and large-scale earthmoving projects. The NAICS code for this procurement is 237990, which covers All Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction.

Given the estimated construction value, this project is suitable for established contractors capable of managing substantial federal contracts and complex logistical requirements related to waterway maintenance and material disposal.

How to respond

To access the full solicitation details and prepare your response, you will need to use the official portal. Click the “View original source” link to open the opportunity.

If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, simply click the “View original source” link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Thoroughly review all sections of the solicitation, paying close attention to the scope of work, technical specifications, and any specific requirements for disposal facilities and dike construction. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses both the mandatory and optional work items.

Highlight your firm's relevant experience with similar dredging projects, particularly those involving federal agencies or large-scale waterway maintenance. Provide details on your equipment, personnel qualifications, and safety record.

Develop a comprehensive project plan that demonstrates your understanding of the logistical challenges, environmental considerations, and timeline for this project. Clearly outline your approach to material removal, disposal, and any proposed methods for efficiency or cost savings.