How to bid on Crooked Creek Jib Crane Work Platform and Safety Updates for the Army

What the agency is buying

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Pittsburgh District, needs a contractor to build an exterior steel and aluminum-grating work platform at the Crooked Creek Lake control tower in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania. This platform will allow maintenance workers to access an existing jib crane. The project also includes updating a nearby ladder by removing its cage and installing a step-off platform, aligning with new OSHA requirements.

The jib crane is essential for raising and lowering stoplogs, but it has been difficult to maintain due to poor accessibility. The new platform will ensure workers can safely perform maintenance. The work must be completed within 365 calendar days after receiving a written notice to proceed.

Key dates and deadlines

This solicitation was published on July 21, 2026. The deadline for responses is August 21, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. However, Amendment 0001 has canceled this solicitation.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity was a 100% small-business set-aside, meaning only small businesses could bid. The North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code for this requirement is 237990, "Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction," with a small business size standard of $45,000,000. This project would have suited construction firms experienced in structural steel fabrication and installation, particularly those with experience in civil engineering projects or work on existing structures.

How to respond

This was a Request for Quote (RFQ) and responses would have been submitted through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) system, which posts opportunities to SAM.gov. Hard copies of requests would not have been honored. To access the opportunity, you would typically click the "View original source" link. If the first click leads to the portal's homepage, clicking it again should direct you to the bid. A free account may be needed to view documents for some bids.

Practical tips for competitive responses

When preparing a response for a firm-fixed-price construction contract, ensure your proposed price accurately reflects all labor, materials, equipment, and overhead costs. Clearly detail your approach to the scope of work, including how you will manage the demolition of the ladder cage, the installation of the steel and aluminum platform, and the step-off platform. Highlight your experience with similar construction projects, especially those involving structural steel, aluminum grating, and work on existing infrastructure or control towers.

Demonstrate your understanding of safety regulations, particularly those related to ladders and fall protection, as this project specifically mentions new OSHA requirements. Provide a realistic timeline for completion within the 365-calendar-day requirement. For set-aside contracts, confirm your small business status and ensure all necessary registrations, such as in SAM.gov, are current and accurate.