How to bid on NIWTP Ingress Road Paving for the International Boundary and Water Commission

What the agency is buying

The International Boundary and Water Commission plans to replace the ingress and egress road at the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rio Rico, Arizona. This project involves demolishing the existing 310-by-20-foot asphalt road and constructing a new 310-by-30-foot concrete road. The work also includes replacing a water line, installing 40 Jersey barriers, and maintaining site and railroad access throughout the project.

This is a 100% small business set-aside opportunity under NAICS code 237310, Highway, Street, and Bridge Construction. The estimated value of the contract is between $250,000 and $500,000. The total project schedule is 240 calendar days, which includes 180 days for design and construction, and 60 days for closeout.

Key dates and deadlines

This is currently a presolicitation notice. The Request for Proposals (RFP) is anticipated to be issued on August 10, 2026. Once the RFP is released, proposals will be due by September 9, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time. No proposals should be submitted in response to this presolicitation notice.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses specializing in highway, street, and bridge construction. The NAICS code is 237310, with a size standard of $45 million in average annual receipts. Firms with experience in design-build construction, road demolition, concrete road construction, utility line replacement, and site access management will be well-suited for this project.

How to respond

The full Request for Proposals (RFP) is expected to be issued on August 10, 2026. When the RFP is released, proposals must be submitted exclusively through the USIBWC secure Microsoft SharePoint portal. Each offeror will need to use one authorized business email account for submission. Email, physical media, commercial file sharing, mailed, and hand-delivered proposals will not be accepted unless a written solicitation amendment authorizes an alternative method.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Since this is a design-build project, ensure your proposal clearly outlines your approach to both design and construction phases. Highlight your firm's experience with similar road construction projects, especially those involving concrete, utility coordination, and maintaining site access. Pay close attention to the minimum qualifications, which will include the issued IBWC Form 245 and supporting documentation.

As this is a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) acquisition, your proposal must meet all technical requirements while offering a competitive and fair price. Carefully review all sections of the upcoming RFP, including the Design Build Scope of Work, bonding requirements, proposal instructions, and evaluation criteria, to ensure full compliance and a strong submission.