How to bid on Rachel Carson Building renovations for Pennsylvania DGS

What DGS is buying

The Pennsylvania Department of General Services is seeking proposals for interior and HVAC renovations at the Rachel Carson Office Building in Harrisburg. The procurement is for general construction, with an estimated range of $11 million to $12 million.

The project may suit construction firms able to manage a large renovation and coordinate work that supports the building’s interior and HVAC improvements.

Key dates and the submission deadline

A pre-proposal conference is scheduled for November 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the Rachel Carson Office Building, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101. Potential proposers are invited and urged to attend.

Proposals are due Tuesday, December 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. They must arrive at the Department of General Services in the lobby of the Arsenal Building, 1800 Herr Street, Harrisburg, before the deadline. Late proposals will not be considered, regardless of the reason for delay.

Who this opportunity may suit

This RFP is for general construction. It may fit firms with relevant experience delivering interior renovation and HVAC work, as well as prime contractors able to manage participation by Small Diverse Businesses and Veteran Business Enterprises.

The goals for general construction are 17% SDB participation and 3% VBE participation across all base bids (#1, #2, and #3). Proposers must agree to meet the goals in full or demonstrate Good Faith Efforts. The solicitation says no points are allocated for SDB or SB participation.

How to access the documents and submit

Open the solicitation on Pennsylvania eMarketplace using the “View original source” option, then review the details and download the solicitation documents listed there. The solicitation says proposers must register to view or download plans and specifications, have a current, active Vendor Number, and create a user profile in e-Builder for the General Construction discipline.

Follow the RFP’s submission instructions. Mailed proposals must arrive at the Arsenal Building lobby by the deadline. If using USPS, allow an additional seven calendar days because USPS does not deliver directly to DGS. In-person delivery must be by the proposer or an authorized representative presenting picture identification and evidence of authorization.

Clearly mark the envelope “PROPOSAL” and include the submission location address, assigned contract, proposer name and address, project name and number, and submission deadline date and time.

Prepare a complete, timely proposal

Read the RFP’s requirements carefully and use its requested format. Check that your response addresses the work, required forms, and all instructions before sending it.

Plan early for the participation goals: identify potential SDB and VBE partners, document outreach, and keep records of any Good Faith Efforts. Confirm your Vendor Number and e-Builder profile are active before relying on access to the bid package.

Build in time for delivery and verify that the proposal reaches the stated location before 2:00 p.m. on December 8. The solicitation states that no Bid Guaranty is required.