By Roland Murphy for AZBEX
Development of a new 406KSF replacement hospital for the Indian Health Service division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services seems increasingly likely, as the Service has issued a Sources Sought/Request for Information to determine the interest, capabilities and qualifications of firms interested in constructing the new facility on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation.
AZBEX was the first outlet to report on plans to replace the existing hospital in 2022. This was then followed by a design RFI that December, followed by a design request for proposals. (AZBEX: Sept. 2, 2022; Dec. 13, 2022)
The design RFI estimated a building of 395.8KSF. Since SmithGroup was awarded the $44.7M design contract early last year, the updated volume has changed to 406KSF.
The new construction RFI was published May 14, and responses are due by June 13. The description makes clear that proposals are not currently being solicited or accepted, and respondents will not be notified of any results.
According to the project description/scope of work, “The project is an acquisition for the new Whiteriver Hospital. The IHS plans to replace the existing Whiteriver Hospital on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. The Contractor shall construct a new 406,000 Square Foot Indian Health Service Hospital that is planned to serve a Primary Service Area projected user population of 19,088 in 2030. The new hospital will be constructed on the existing 14-acre site of the existing hospital with minor adjustments to the existing lease.”
Questions included in the RFI include details of the submitters’ experience, history and connection to preferred, traditionally disadvantaged business types (Native American-owned, veteran-owned, women-owned, etc.). They also ask the submitters’ thoughts on various components of the project, including:
- Estimated project duration,
- Appropriate duration of the solicitation period to obtain subcontractor input,
- Preferences about shuttle service between a temporary parking lot and the project site,
- The potential need for a dedicated materials staging area due to the constrained nature of the project site,
- The logistics of providing housing for workers during the construction process,
- Strategies to meet the project’s small business requirements and
- Strategies to manage supply chains, long lead times and shipping delays to minimize schedule impacts.
The full RFI is available here.
