Communication Manhole (CMH) and Security Manhole (SMH) Inspection Program

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) intends to issue a sole source modification to an existing contract (Contract Number HM047618C0075) with Zolon PCS, LLC under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 to continue Communication Manhole (CMH) and Security Manhole (SMH) Inspection Program (herein referred to as “CMH/SMH Inspection Program”). The work performed under the proposed extension is a continuation of identical work currently being performed by Zolon PCS, LLC on Contract Number HM047618C0075 in support of the CMH/SMH Inspection Program.  The Government requires the contractor to continue to inspect each manhole for excessive water, hazardous materials and contaminants that could affect the communications fiber, and dispose of any water encountered in the manholes in accordance with all federal, state and local safety regulations including, but not limited to Federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements for entering confined spaces. The work also includes entry and inspection operations within confined spaces, which requires permits for access. All of the on-site contractor personnel must be cleared at the TS/SCI level per NGA’s security requirements.

This is an existing requirement which has been under contract since 2018. The acquisition strategy for the initial requirement used was a commercial acquisition with a competitive 8(a) small business set aside. As a result of a multi-pronged approach to the market research conducted for the follow-on requirement, CMH/SMH Inspection Program II, a request to release the follow-on requirement for non-8(a) procurement is currently pending with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for SBA’s review and decision in accordance with FAR 19.815. This proposed extension to the existing contract will allow time for SBA’s review and decision, and completion of the follow-on contract award.

Based on the market research for the follow-on requirement, the Government only expects receipt of one responsive offer; that of the incumbent. Additionally, it is not in the Government’s best interest to change vendors prior to award of the follow-on contract. The potential for multiple transitions over a 6-month period would translate into an unnecessary disruption of mission critical operations, and increase the likelihood of mission impact or failure.

This action will award an extension for six (6) months, extending the period of performance of the contract through 29 March 2023.

This is a special notice prepared in accordance with the format in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 5.2, Synopses of Proposed Contract Actions and is not a request for competitive proposals. A solicitation will not be posted.

This proposed extension will enable the continued performance of the inspection services in support of the CMH/SMH Inspection Program until NGA receives a response from the SBA regarding the removal of the follow-on requirement from the 8(a) program that will allow NGA to proceed with the acquisition of the follow-on CMH/SMH Inspection Program II, as well as allow for transition.

However, any firm that believes it can meet this requirement may give written notification to the Contracting Officer no later than 1:00 pm Eastern Time (ET) on 19 August 2022. Supporting evidence must be in sufficient detail to demonstrate the ability to comply with the requirement. Responses received will be evaluated; however, a determination by the Government to compete the proposed procurement based on the response to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.