U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, 6303 Ivy Lane, Room 616, Greenbelt, Maryland 20770

Y -- UTILITY AND SITE UPGRADE, HIGHWAY 83 SITE, AT THE SUBTROPICAL AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH LABORATORY, WESLACO, TEXAS SOL 8216-3K15-96 DUE 053196 POC Contracting Officer, Mike Thompson, 301-344-0298 Pre-Solicitation Notice - It is the intent of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, to make site improvements and upgrade the utility systems at the Subtropical Agricultural Research Laboratory in Weslaco, Texas. This work is an initial phase of an overall modernization program and supports future laboratory construction and renovation activities. Site work includes removal of structures and concrete debris from a former concrete batch plant; grading and seeding of the property; construction of a new paved entrance road to laboratory facilities; relocation and installation of fencing; construction of brick entrance wing walls and fence line pilasters; and installation of landscape materials and irrigation system. Items of work for the utility system upgrade include installation of a new 8 inch water service to the property; extension of the existing storm drainage system; extension of the existing sanitary sewer collection system; installation of ducts for new underground communication and electrical primary services; and replacement of secondary electrical services to location buildings. The estimated cost of construction for the utility and site upgrade, Highway 83 site is between $750,000 and $1,000,000. Solicitation packages will be available on or about April 22, 1996. The bid documents will be provided at no cost to bidders, by Marmon Mok, L.L.P., One Riverwalk Place, Suite No. 1600, 700 North St. Mary's, San Antonio, Texas 78205. The point of contact is German Valdes and he can be reached on 210-223- 9492. A pre-bid conference will be held on or about May 8, 1996. All responsible sources may submit an offer which shall be considered by the Agency. (0093)

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