How to bid on Upgrade Fire Detection System at FDC Honolulu, Hawaii for Department of Justice

What the agency is buying and why it matters

The Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) is seeking a small-business prime contractor to upgrade the fire detection system at the Federal Detention Center (FDC) in Honolulu, Hawaii. This project involves providing all necessary labor, equipment, and materials for the complete construction of the upgraded system.

This is a significant opportunity for construction firms, with an estimated project value between $5 million and $10 million. It is a 100 percent small business set-aside, meaning only small businesses are eligible to bid.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

The solicitation was published on August 05, 2026. The deadline for submitting your Step-One technical proposal is August 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET. This initial submission will not include any pricing information.

After the deadline, technical proposals will be evaluated. Firms with acceptable technical proposals will then be invited to participate in Step-Two, where they will submit sealed bids with pricing. Payment and performance bonds for 100% of the contract amount will be required at the time of contract award.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for small businesses in the construction sector, specifically those with experience in fire detection system upgrades or similar construction projects. The applicable North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code is 238210, with a small business size standard of $19 million.

Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov and ensure their business size metrics information in their SAM registration meets the small business size standard.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the solicitation, click “View original source” on the portal. If you land on the 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 the case.

The solicitation uses a two-step sealed bidding process. In Step-One, you must submit a technical proposal without any prices, following the instructions in the solicitation attachments “Instructions for Two-Step Sealed Bidding” and “Step-One Technical Proposal Factors”. Your submission will be evaluated for technical acceptability. Only one technical proposal may be submitted per offeror.

Any secured or locked documents, such as specifications and drawings, require an active SAM.gov vendor registration and your Marketing Partner Identification Number (MPIN). These controlled documents will not be emailed. If you have trouble accessing them, contact the Federal Service Desk at 866-606-8220.

Practical tips for a competitive response

Carefully review all solicitation attachments, especially the “Instructions for Two-Step Sealed Bidding” and “Step-One Technical Proposal Factors” to understand the specific requirements for your technical proposal. Ensure your proposal clearly addresses all evaluation criteria for technical acceptability.

Since this is a two-step process, focus entirely on the technical aspects in Step-One. Do not include any pricing information. A strong, compliant technical proposal is essential to move forward to the pricing stage.

Double-check your SAM.gov registration to ensure it is active and that your business size metrics accurately reflect your small business status under NAICS code 238210. This is a mandatory requirement for award consideration. Continuously monitor the SAM.gov website for any amendments or updates to the solicitation.