How to bid on Gavins Point Crane Rail Replacement for the Dept of the Army

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Department of the Army needs a contractor to remove and replace the crane runway rails at the Gavins Point Powerhouse Intake, located near Yankton, South Dakota. This project includes replacing rail hardware, anchors, and grout, and ensuring proper alignment of the new rails. The two rails each measure 328 feet in length.

This is a significant construction project with an estimated value between $1 million and $5 million. The work must be completed within 360 calendar days after the notice to proceed. This opportunity is open to both large and small businesses.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation for this project is expected to be issued around August 10, 2026. The deadline for submitting bids is anticipated to be around September 29, 2026. A site visit is tentatively planned for August 26, 2026; further details will be provided in the solicitation.

At the bid closing deadline, all proposals must be submitted. Late submissions are generally not accepted. It is crucial to submit your response well in advance of the deadline to avoid any technical issues.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms specializing in structural steel and precast concrete work. The primary NAICS code for this solicitation is 238120, Structural Steel and Precast Concrete Contractors, with a small business size standard of $19 million.

Firms with experience in crane rail installation, demolition, and precise alignment to CMAA 70 standards will be well-suited. The project also requires expertise in concrete anchor replacement and specialized grouting.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the opportunity, 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 this is not always required.

All questions regarding the solicitation must be submitted through ProjNet. Access details and guidance for ProjNet will be provided when the solicitation is issued.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Thoroughly review all solicitation documents once they are released. Pay close attention to the scope of work, technical specifications, and any specific requirements for materials or installation standards, such as CMAA 70.

Plan to attend the tentative site visit on August 26, 2026. This will provide valuable insight into the existing conditions and help you prepare a more accurate and competitive bid. Carefully consider the assumption that 80 percent of existing anchors will be replaced and all concrete anchors at joint bars will be replaced.

Develop a clear project plan that addresses the sequencing of demolition and installation to minimize downtime for the intake crane. Highlight your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving precise rail alignment and work in operational facilities.