How to bid on replacing OR chillers for the VA in Houston, TX

What the VA is buying and why it matters

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is conducting market research for a project to replace two operating room (OR) chillers at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. This is a Request for Information (RFI), not a request for bids, but it's an opportunity for contractors to show their capabilities.

The VA anticipates a one-time construction contract, estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million. This project is important for firms specializing in commercial and institutional building construction, particularly those with experience in complex mechanical system replacements within medical facilities.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This RFI was published on September 11, 2026. Your response is due by September 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. This is a firm deadline, and late submissions will not be reviewed.

At the deadline, the VA will stop accepting capabilities packages. This RFI is for market research only, meaning the VA is gathering information to decide how to proceed. It does not guarantee a future solicitation or contract award, but your response helps the VA understand the market.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms, particularly those classified under NAICS 236220, Commercial and Institutional Building Construction, with a size standard of $45 million. The VA is looking for businesses that can demonstrate experience with projects of similar size, scope, and complexity.

Firms must also confirm their ability to obtain and have the capacity to bond this project up to $2 million. This is a key requirement for any interested contractor.

How to respond to this RFI

To respond, you need to submit a capabilities package via email. Your response must be limited to three pages and sent to Lisa Peace, Contracting Specialist, at [email protected].

The email subject line must be: “Sources Sought for REPLACE OR CHILLERS | Project# 580-23-105 | Your Firm’s Name.” Do not include advertising or promotional materials in your submission.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Focus on clearly articulating your company's profile, including your Unique Entity ID (UEI) number, CAGE Code, and small business designations. Be precise about your business type, such as Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) or Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB).

Highlight up to three relevant projects completed within the last five years. For each project, provide details like the title, location, your role (prime or subcontractor), award and completion dates, contract value, scope of work, and customer contact information. Emphasize how these projects relate to replacing OR chillers.

Finally, explicitly confirm your firm's ability to bond the project up to $2,000,000. This is a critical piece of information the VA is requesting to assess your firm's capacity.