How to bid on Sturzebecker Health Science Center Renovations for West Chester University

What West Chester University is buying

West Chester University, part of the PA State System of Higher Education, is seeking bids for renovations to the Sturzebecker Health Science Center. This project is structured as a standard low bid, with separate contracts available for different construction disciplines.

The estimated ranges for these contracts are: General Construction ($23,000,000 - $24,000,000), HVAC ($12,000,000 - $13,000,000), Plumbing ($6,000,000 - $7,000,000), and Electrical ($12,000,000 - $13,000,000). This is a significant opportunity for construction firms in Pennsylvania.

Key dates and deadlines

The deadline for submitting bids is October 2, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. Bids must be submitted electronically through the e-Builder platform.

A pre-bid conference is scheduled for August 27, 2026, at 1:00 PM. This meeting will take place at the Sturzebecker Health Science Center Building, Room 331, 855 S. New Street, West Chester, PA 19383. Attendees should park in Lot O.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is suitable for established construction firms specializing in general construction, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work. Given the estimated contract values, firms with experience in large-scale institutional or educational facility renovations will be well-suited.

Bidders must also be prepared to meet or demonstrate good-faith efforts toward Small Diverse Business (SDB) and Veteran Business Enterprise (VBE) participation goals. For General Construction and Electrical, the SDB goal is 16% and VBE is 3%. For HVAC, SDB is 12% and VBE is 3%. For Plumbing, SDB is 8% and VBE is 3%.

How to respond to this solicitation

To access the solicitation documents, you must first register on the e-Builder platform and create a user profile. You will also need a current, active vendor number. Once registered, you can view and download the plans and specifications for the specific discipline you are interested in.

Bids for this project will only be accepted electronically through e-Builder. The platform offers a video tutorial for first-time users and technical support via email at [email protected] or by phone at 1-888-288-5717. Public bid openings can be viewed online using a Windows PC.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Carefully review all sections of the Invitation for Bids, paying close attention to the scope of work for each contract and any specific technical requirements. Ensure your bid accurately reflects the costs and timelines for the services you propose.

Address the Small Diverse Business and Veteran Business Enterprise participation goals thoroughly. Either commit to meeting the goals or clearly document your good-faith efforts. This is a critical component of the evaluation.

Attend the pre-bid conference on August 27, 2026. This is an excellent opportunity to clarify any ambiguities, ask questions directly to the agency, and potentially network with other contractors for teaming opportunities. Familiarize yourself with the e-Builder platform well in advance of the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues with your electronic submission.