How to bid on Retamal Dam Building and Generator for USIBWC

What the agency is buying

The United States Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission (USIBWC) needs a contractor to design and build a replacement emergency diesel generator, a new metal building to house it, a concrete pad, and a modern diesel fuel tank at Retamal Dam. The existing emergency generator is no longer working.

This project includes site preparation, inspection of all systems and structures, disposal of debris and construction waste, and quality control testing. Vendors should note the specific warranty requirements: at least 5 years for the generator and automatic transfer switch, and 20 years for the roofing system.

Key dates and deadlines

The solicitation was published on July 31, 2026. Proposals are due by August 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. This is a firm deadline, and all responsible sources must submit a proposal by this time to be considered.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for construction firms with design-build capabilities, particularly those experienced in generator installations, metal building construction, and concrete work. Experience with site preparation, debris disposal, and quality control testing is also relevant. Given the location, familiarity with working in border areas and adhering to specific site access requirements would be beneficial.

The project requires adherence to specific working hours, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and awareness of federal holidays when facilities are closed. Contractors must also be mindful of adjacent US Fish and Wildlife property.

How to respond

To access the solicitation, click the “View original source” link. 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 documents, though this is not always required.

A site visit is mentioned in the solicitation, and a completed Form 358 is required to attend. This is an RFP, not a sealed bid solicitation, and all responsible sources must submit a proposal.

Tips for a competitive response

Carefully review all sections of the solicitation, especially those detailing the scope of work, technical specifications for the generator and building, and warranty requirements. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses how you will meet or exceed these specifications.

Pay close attention to the logistical requirements, such as working hours, site access, and border-area considerations. Outline your plan for managing these aspects, including any necessary permits or coordination with agencies like Border Patrol. Provide clear evidence of your firm's experience with similar design-build projects, particularly those involving critical infrastructure and specific warranty obligations.