Bid guide
How to bid on JDA Tainter Valves (TV3 & TV4) Repair for the DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) needs repairs and rehabilitation for two Tainter valves, TV3 and TV4, at the John Day Lock and Dam in Rufus, Oregon. This project involves comprehensive rehabilitation, including structural and weld repairs, addressing corrosion and cavitation, and replacing seals and bushings.
The work also requires transporting the valves to and from a fabrication shop, conducting surveys, and reinstalling them. This is a significant construction contract, estimated between $1 million and $5 million, with a performance period of about 321 days. It's a full and open competition, meaning any qualified firm can bid.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This is a pre-solicitation notice, meaning the official solicitation is expected to be released around mid-August 2026. Once released, bids will be due approximately 30 days later. The exact dates and times will be specified in the solicitation document.
The deadline for the Request for Information (RFI) is August 19, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. This RFI is for informational purposes and responses are not required. The government intends to award the contract without discussions, but reserves the right to conduct them if it's in their best interest.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for construction firms specializing in heavy and civil engineering, particularly those with experience in dam repair or alteration. The North American Industrial Classification Code (NAICS) is 237990, "Other Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction," with a size standard of $45 million.
Bidders must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM). A critical requirement is that the fabricating plant and fabricator must be certified under the AISC Quality Certification Program (Category CBR, IBR, ABR, or HYD with a fracture critical endorsement) and have five years of documented experience on similar projects.
How to respond
To access the opportunity, click the "View original source" link. If you land on the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required.
The official solicitation will provide detailed instructions on how to submit your bid. Ensure your company is registered in SAM before submitting your proposal.
Practical tips for a competitive response
Given the specialized nature of this project, clearly demonstrate your firm's experience with Tainter valve repairs, structural welding, and corrosion control. Highlight any past projects involving similar scope and magnitude, especially those for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or other federal agencies.
Pay close attention to the AISC certification and experience requirements for the fabrication plant. Provide clear documentation of these certifications and the required five years of experience. Detail your proposed approach for transportation, surveys, and reinstallation, showing a clear understanding of the project's logistical challenges. Emphasize your quality control processes for structural welds and material replacements.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from DEPT of Defense; the original posting controls.