How to bid on Reserve Basin Maintenance Dredging for the DEPT of Defense

What the agency is buying

The Department of Defense is seeking a contractor for maintenance dredging at the Philadelphia Navy Yard. Specifically, the work involves dredging the North Side of Reserve Basin and the Schuylkill River Access Channel.

The project requires removing approximately 96,611 cubic yards of sediment using a sealed environmental clamshell bucket. This dredging is essential to maintain specified depths for safe vessel access and decommissioning operations at the Naval Support Activity Mechanicsburg, Philadelphia Navy Yard Annex.

Key dates and deadlines

This solicitation was published on August 13, 2026. All responses must be submitted by October 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. It is important to submit your proposal before this deadline, as late submissions are typically not considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with expertise in dredging operations, particularly those with experience in environmental dredging using sealed clamshell buckets. Firms familiar with marine construction and working in naval or port environments would be well-suited for this project.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all associated documents, though this is not always required for every bid.

Tips for a competitive response

When preparing your response, clearly detail your experience with similar dredging projects, especially those involving significant sediment volumes and environmental considerations. Highlight your firm's capabilities with sealed environmental clamshell buckets and your understanding of maintaining specific depth requirements.

Ensure your proposal addresses all technical specifications and operational requirements outlined in the solicitation. Provide a clear project plan, including your proposed methodology, equipment, and timeline. Demonstrate your ability to perform the work safely and efficiently within the specified timeframe and budget.