How to bid on construction services for Inlet Lock 2 repair at C&O Canal National Historical Park

What the agency is buying

The National Park Service needs construction services to repair Inlet Lock 2 in Potomac, Maryland. This work includes replacing old lock gates and the miter sill, fixing stone masonry, clearing out sediment and debris, and repairing berms near Violette’s Lock (Lock 23).

This is a firm-fixed-price contract with an estimated value between $500,000 and $1,000,000. It is a 100% small business set-aside opportunity, making it suitable for eligible small construction firms.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on September 10, 2026. Proposals are due by September 18, 2026, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. All required documents must be submitted by this deadline for your proposal to be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is specifically for small businesses in the construction sector. The relevant NAICS code is 237990, which covers Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction, with a small business size standard of $45 million. Firms with experience in lock repair, masonry, and general civil engineering construction are well-suited for this project.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click “View original source” 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 all documents, though this is not always required.

The solicitation is issued as a Request for Proposal (RFP) on Standard Form (SF)1442, in accordance with FAR Part 15. Make sure to review Amendment P0001 for any revisions and additional attachments.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully read all parts of the solicitation, including Amendment P0001, to understand the full scope of work and all requirements. Pay close attention to the specific tasks listed, such as replacing lock gates, repairing masonry, and clearing debris, and ensure your proposal directly addresses each one.

Since this is a firm-fixed-price contract, ensure your proposed price accurately reflects all costs associated with completing the work. Clearly demonstrate your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving historical structures or water infrastructure. Highlight your team's qualifications and any specialized equipment or techniques you plan to use.