Bid guide
How to bid on Fairview Suites Mechanical Upgrades for Commonwealth University
What Commonwealth University is buying
Commonwealth University in Pennsylvania is seeking professional design and engineering services. This project involves mechanical and safety upgrades for the Fairview Suites in Lock Haven, PA. The work includes replacing aging HVAC units, upgrading attic dry sprinkler and smoke detection systems, and improving attic access. These upgrades aim to enhance building safety, improve reliability, support better energy performance, and align with the university's sustainability goals.
The estimated construction cost for this project is $3.96 million. This is an opportunity for firms specializing in mechanical and safety system design and engineering.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
Applications for this project are due by Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 4:30 PM ET. Applications must be submitted through the Trimble Unity Construct portal. Late submissions will not be accepted.
A Professional Selections Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM. This meeting can be joined online via a web conference link, with a provided phone conference ID.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for professional design and engineering firms with expertise in HVAC systems, fire suppression, smoke detection, and building access modifications. Firms should be comfortable working on projects with an estimated construction cost of $3.96 million.
Applicants must have a current, active Vendor/SAP number. Information on how to register for a Vendor Number is available. While there are no specific Small Diverse Business (SDB) or Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) participation goals for this project, applicants should review the project documents for any related instructions.
How to respond
To access the solicitation, you can click the "View original source" link, which will open the solicitation directly on the Pennsylvania eMarketplace. From there, you can review the details and download all necessary solicitation documents.
Applications for this project will only be accepted through the Trimble Unity Construct (previously e-Builder) bidding portal. You will need to create a user profile within Trimble Unity Construct to view and download project documents. A video tutorial and technical support are available for first-time users of the platform. Note that Professional Selections projects must be viewed using a Windows PC, as mobile devices are not supported.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
Thoroughly review all project documents available in the Trimble Unity Construct solicitation folder. Pay close attention to the detailed scope of work, any specific technical requirements, and the revised Design Professional Selections documents from 2026. Ensure your proposal directly addresses all aspects of the required mechanical and safety upgrades.
Highlight your firm's experience with similar projects involving HVAC replacement, sprinkler systems, smoke detection, and building modifications, especially in educational or institutional settings. Clearly articulate your approach to enhancing building safety, improving reliability, and supporting energy performance and sustainability goals. Double-check that your firm has an active Vendor/SAP number before the deadline, as this is a mandatory requirement for all applicants.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Commonwealth University; the original posting controls.

