How to bid on Electrical Rebuild, Black Rock Lake Dam, with the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District, is seeking bids for electrical feeder upgrades at the Black Rock Lake Dam in Thomaston, Connecticut. This project involves significant electrical work to modernize the dam's infrastructure.

Specific tasks include replacing overhead and buried electrical feeders, removing and replacing existing panels and transfer equipment, and installing a new propane generator, propane tank, and underground propane line. The new generator will power both the project office and the gate tower during utility outages. The estimated value of this project is between $750,000 and $1,250,000, with a performance period of approximately 180 days.

Key dates and deadlines

This Invitation for Bids (IFB) was published on July 31, 2026. All bids must be submitted by September 01, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your bid before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not accepted.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is a 100% small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses are eligible to bid. The NAICS code for this work is 238210, which covers electrical contractors, with a size standard of $19 million. Firms specializing in electrical infrastructure upgrades, particularly those with experience in dam or critical facility electrical systems, would be well-suited for this project.

How to respond

To access the solicitation documents, click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though some bids allow document viewing without an account.

Tips for a competitive response

When preparing your bid, carefully review all specifications and drawings provided in the solicitation. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses each required task, including the replacement of feeders, panels, and transfer equipment, as well as the installation of the new propane generator and associated lines.

Highlight your firm's experience with similar electrical upgrade projects, especially those involving critical infrastructure or dam environments. Provide a detailed breakdown of your proposed costs and a realistic timeline for completing the 180-day performance period. Double-check all calculations and ensure your bid is complete and accurate before the submission deadline.