How to bid on Carl B. Stokes Federal Building & U.S. Courthouse Fire Alarm Replacement

What the GSA is buying and why it matters

The Public Buildings Service, part of the General Services Administration (GSA), is seeking a design-build contractor to modernize the fire alarm and life safety systems at the Carl B. Stokes Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Cleveland, Ohio. This 23-story building covers approximately 767,000 square feet, including three lower levels and an integrated parking garage.

The project aims to bring the building's fire alarm and life safety systems up to current code. A key requirement is to minimize disruption to daily federal operations during the work. This is a significant opportunity for firms specializing in large-scale fire alarm and life safety system upgrades.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This solicitation was published on July 17, 2026. A virtual pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 1:30 PM Central Time. Prospective attendees must RSVP to the Contracting Officer.

Proposals are due by 4:00 PM CST on August 21, 2026. This is a two-phase design-build selection process. Phase I involves submitting qualifications, and the GSA will select a maximum of three highly qualified offerors to proceed to Phase II. Phase II will require technical and price proposals, and the GSA intends to award a single contract for all design and construction services. Unsuccessful short-listed offerors in Phase II who satisfy the terms of the Request for Proposal will receive a $22,390.00 stipend.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for design-build contractors with expertise in fire alarm and life safety system modernization projects, particularly in large, occupied federal or commercial buildings. The requirement to minimize disruption to federal operations means firms with experience in complex, operational environments will be well-suited.

This is a full-and-open competition, meaning both large and small businesses are encouraged to bid. Large businesses will need to submit an acceptable small business subcontracting plan as part of their Phase II proposal.

How to respond

To access the opportunity, click “View original source” to open the opportunity on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required for all bids.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Given the two-phase process, focus on clearly demonstrating your firm's qualifications and relevant experience in Phase I. Highlight past projects involving fire alarm and life safety system upgrades in large, complex buildings, especially those requiring minimal disruption to ongoing operations.

For Phase II, ensure your technical proposal clearly outlines your approach to modernizing the systems while adhering to current codes and minimizing operational impact. Your price proposal should be competitive and thoroughly justified. If you are a large business, prepare a robust small business subcontracting plan that aligns with FAR Part 19.7 requirements.