How to bid on Southern Research Station Forest Inventory and Analysis Headquarters Rental

What the agency is buying and why a vendor would care

The U.S. Forest Service Southern Research Station (SRS) Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program needs to rent 11,200 square feet of office and operational space. This facility in Knoxville, Tennessee, will support approximately 64 personnel from various agencies and affiliates.

The space requires 56 workstations, 8 private offices, multiple conference and collaboration rooms, and phone booths including a lactation room. It also needs dedicated parking for fleet vehicles, seasonal boat storage, shower facilities for field crews, and secure IT infrastructure. The location must be within 0.5 miles of the UT campus bus line and within 1 mile of the UT Institute of Agriculture.

The agency intends to award a contract for up to three years. While the government plans to restrict competition, other responsible sources may submit a quotation or capability statement for consideration.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This opportunity was published on August 03, 2026. The deadline for submissions is August 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. All quotes or capability statements must be submitted by this time.

After the deadline, the agency will review all submissions. They will use these to determine whether to proceed with restricted competition as planned or to conduct a full and open competition.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is best suited for property owners or managers who can provide a full-service rental space meeting specific requirements at the University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm in Knoxville, TN. The space needs to accommodate office staff, field crews, and specialized equipment.

The ideal vendor would be able to provide a facility that supports interagency collaboration and has established infrastructure for IT, vehicle storage, and field support amenities like showers. Proximity to the UT campus bus line and the UT Institute of Agriculture is a critical factor.

How to respond

To access the full details of this opportunity, click on the “View original source” link. 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.

Once you have reviewed the solicitation, prepare your quotation or capability statement. Ensure your submission clearly addresses how your offering meets all the specified requirements for office space, operational features, and location. Submit your response by the stated deadline.

Practical tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though the agency intends to restrict competition, a strong capability statement can still influence their decision. Clearly articulate how your facility meets every requirement, especially the specific square footage, number of workstations, private offices, and meeting room types.

Highlight how your location at the University of Tennessee Research Park at Cherokee Farm fulfills the proximity requirements for the UT campus bus line and the UT Institute of Agriculture. Detail any existing infrastructure that supports secure IT systems, vehicle parking, boat storage, and shower facilities.

Emphasize how your offering provides continuity of services and avoids duplication of costs or relocation expenses for the government, aligning with the agency's stated rationale for restricted competition. Provide clear evidence of your ability to support the operational efficiency and interagency collaboration needs of the Forest Service and its partners.