How to bid on converting a Visitor Center to HQ for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

What the agency is buying

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is looking for a contractor to convert the existing Visitor Center at Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge in Sudbury, Massachusetts, into a headquarters space. This project is for the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex. The work involves furnishing all tools, equipment, material, permits, labor, and supervision necessary for the conversion, including As-Built Documentation.

This is a 100% Total Small Business Set Aside, making it an opportunity specifically for small businesses. The estimated value of this construction project is between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000, with a performance period of 365 calendar days after receiving the Notice to Proceed.

Key dates and deadlines

This is a pre-solicitation announcement. The Request for Proposal (RFP) is expected to be issued on SAM.gov around August 13, 2026. The deadline for proposals is August 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. The government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price Contract within 120 days from the solicitation closing date. Further details on all dates and events, including site visits, will be available in the official solicitation documents.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in commercial and institutional building construction. The North American Industry Classification Code (NAICS) for this procurement is 236220, which has a size standard of $45 Million. Firms with experience in converting existing structures into functional office or administrative spaces, particularly those familiar with federal construction standards, would be well-suited.

How to respond

The official solicitation documents, including various proposal documents, specifications, forms, and drawings, will be available for download at no charge from the Contract Opportunities website (SAM.gov) when the solicitation is issued, on or about August 13, 2026. The FWS will not provide hard copies of the solicitation.

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 SAM.gov to view documents, though for some bids, an account is not required. All interested offerors, including prime contractors and subcontractors, should register on Contract Opportunities to indicate their interest. You are responsible for obtaining all solicitation documents and acknowledging any amendments by periodically checking the Contract Opportunities website. Prospective contractors must complete electronic annual representations and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM).

Practical tips for a competitive response

Since this is a construction project, pay close attention to the specifications and drawings once they are released. Ensure your proposal clearly demonstrates your firm's capability to manage a project of this magnitude and type, specifically the conversion of an existing building. Highlight any relevant past performance with similar federal or institutional construction projects.

Given the 365-day performance period, your project plan should be realistic and detailed, outlining how you will complete the work within the timeframe. Clearly articulate your team's experience, your proposed methodology, and how you will ensure quality control and adherence to all safety and environmental regulations. Double-check all required forms and ensure your SAM registration is active and up-to-date before the proposal deadline.