How to bid on the Mississippi River Southwest Pass and Calcasieu River Bar Channel Hopper Dredge Contract (OM25011) for the Dept of the Army

What the Army Corps of Engineers is buying

The Department of the Army is seeking a contractor to provide a fully crewed and equipped self-propelled trailing suction type hopper dredge. This work will primarily take place in the Mississippi River Southwest Pass and the Calcasieu River Bar Channel. There is also potential for work in other areas within the New Orleans, Galveston, and Mobile Districts.

This contract is for construction services and has an estimated value between $10 million and $25 million. This is a significant opportunity for firms specializing in dredging operations.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This is currently a Request for Information (RFI) published on February 04, 2025. The official solicitation is expected to be issued around December 9, 2024. The deadline for responses to this RFI is February 28, 2027, at 12:00 PM ET. A specific bid opening date will be established in a future amendment once the solicitation is released.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with expertise in dredging, specifically those that own or can provide a fully crewed and equipped self-propelled trailing suction type hopper dredge. The magnitude of the project suggests it is geared towards established companies with the capacity to handle large-scale marine construction and maintenance projects.

The relevant category for this work is construction.

How to respond

To access the opportunity documents, click “View original source”. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view all documents, though this is not always required.

You must be registered with the System for Award Management (SAM.gov) to be eligible for a government contract award. It is also encouraged to register as an Interested Vendor on SAM.gov for marketing purposes and to post subcontracting opportunities on the Small Business Administration's Subnet.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Given this is a dredging contract, ensure your proposal clearly details your firm's experience with similar projects, especially those involving large waterways and federal agencies. Highlight the capabilities and specifications of the hopper dredge you intend to use, including its capacity, crew experience, and any relevant certifications.

Pay close attention to all requirements once the full solicitation is released. Thoroughly review the scope of work, technical specifications, and any performance metrics. A well-organized and compliant response that directly addresses all aspects of the solicitation will be crucial for a competitive bid.