How to bid on Dock and Deck Plate Repair for the Department of Veterans Affairs

What the VA is buying and why it matters

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a contractor to perform dock and deck plate repairs at Buildings 14 and 15 of the Salem VA Medical Center in Salem, Virginia. This project involves significant concrete and structural work to improve the functionality and safety of the loading dock areas.

The scope of work includes removing existing asphalt, curbs, and dock equipment, followed by the installation of new concrete drives, a retaining wall, new curbs, handrail extensions, and new dock bumpers. For Building 15, the project requires removing an existing pit leveler and installing a new 6-foot by 8-foot hydraulic pit leveler. This is a construction opportunity for firms experienced in concrete work, structural repairs, and dock equipment installation.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This Request for Proposal (RFP) was published on September 03, 2026. All proposals must be submitted by the deadline of September 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your proposal well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

The selected contractor will be required to complete all work within 120 days from the issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP). The work schedule must be coordinated with the VA Engineering Service, and the contractor must provide a minimum 48-hour notice for any activities that might affect medical center operations.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with experience in commercial or industrial concrete work, structural modifications, and the installation of loading dock equipment such as pit levelers and bumpers. Vendors should be familiar with VA design and construction standards, local building codes, and OSHA safety requirements.

The project requires a contractor capable of managing a multi-faceted repair project, including excavation, concrete pouring, and precise installation of mechanical equipment. Firms with a strong track record of completing projects on time and coordinating effectively with facility staff will be well-suited for this bid.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the full solicitation documents, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link a second time to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though for some bids, this is not necessary.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

When preparing your proposal, clearly detail your experience with similar dock repair and concrete construction projects. Highlight your firm's ability to adhere to strict safety protocols, especially those outlined by OSHA, and your experience working in operational environments like medical centers where coordination and minimal disruption are critical.

Provide a detailed project plan that demonstrates your understanding of the scope of work for both Building 14 and Building 15. Include a proposed timeline that shows how you will complete the work within the 120-day period of performance, and how you will coordinate with VA staff. Emphasize your quality control measures to ensure all new installations meet VA standards for levelness, alignment, and finish.