Agriculture Department awards $31.7M contract for armed security services, highlighting a need for robust protection at key facilities

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $31,691,743 ($31.7M)

Contractor: Vision Quest Solutions Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Agriculture

Start Date: 2025-02-01

End Date: 2027-02-15

Contract Duration: 744 days

Daily Burn Rate: $42.6K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: ARMED SECURITY SERVICES FOR HEADQUARTERS, WASHINGTON DC, AND GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER CENTER, BELTSVILLE, MD.

Place of Performance

Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20250

State: District of Columbia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Agriculture obligated $31.7 million to VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC for work described as: ARMED SECURITY SERVICES FOR HEADQUARTERS, WASHINGTON DC, AND GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER CENTER, BELTSVILLE, MD. Key points: 1. The contract value of $31.7 million over approximately two years suggests a significant investment in security infrastructure. 2. Competition dynamics for this contract are favorable, with 6 bidders participating in a full and open competition. 3. The firm-fixed-price contract type helps mitigate cost overruns, providing budget certainty for the agency. 4. The services are critical for maintaining operational continuity and safeguarding sensitive government assets and personnel. 5. This award falls within the security services sector, a vital component of government operations and facility management. 6. The duration of the contract (744 days) indicates a medium-term commitment to ensuring consistent security coverage.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract's value of $31.7 million for approximately two years of armed security services appears reasonable given the scope and criticality of protecting federal facilities. Benchmarking against similar contracts for armed security at government installations of comparable size and complexity would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The firm-fixed-price structure is a positive indicator for cost control. However, without specific details on the number of personnel, hours, or specific security measures required, a definitive value assessment is challenging.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under a full and open competition, indicating that all responsible sources were permitted to submit offers. The participation of 6 bidders suggests a healthy level of competition for this service. A competitive environment generally leads to better pricing and service quality as contractors vie for the award. The agency's decision to use full and open competition is a positive sign for efficient use of taxpayer funds.

Taxpayer Impact: A competitive bidding process ensures that taxpayers receive the best possible value by driving down prices and encouraging innovation among service providers. The presence of multiple bidders means the government is not locked into a single provider, fostering a market that serves taxpayer interests.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are federal employees and visitors at the Department of Agriculture's headquarters in Washington D.C. and the George Washington Carver Center in Beltsville, MD, who will receive enhanced safety and security. The contract ensures the provision of armed security guard services, crucial for deterring threats and responding to emergencies. The geographic impact is localized to the specified facilities in Washington D.C. and Maryland. The contract supports jobs within the private security sector, contributing to employment in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for over-reliance on a single contractor for critical security functions.
Ensuring consistent quality and performance across all shifts and locations.
Managing contractor performance to meet evolving security threats.

Positive Signals

Full and open competition likely secured competitive pricing.
Firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty.
The contractor, VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC, has been awarded this contract, implying they met the agency's requirements.
The contract duration suggests a stable security posture for the facilities.

Sector Analysis

The security services industry is a significant component of the broader professional, scientific, and technical services sector. This contract falls under the Security Guards and Patrol Services sub-sector (NAICS 561612). Government contracts for security services are substantial, driven by the need to protect federal facilities, personnel, and assets. Benchmarks for similar contracts often vary widely based on location, security level, and specific service requirements, but a contract of this magnitude indicates a substantial security need.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates that this contract was awarded under full and open competition and does not specify any small business set-aside provisions (ss: false, sb: false). Therefore, the direct impact on small businesses through set-asides is not apparent. However, the prime contractor, VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC, may engage small businesses as subcontractors to fulfill parts of the contract, which would be a positive indirect impact on the small business ecosystem.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the Department of Agriculture's Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) or a designated contracting officer's representative (COR). The firm-fixed-price nature of the contract simplifies some aspects of financial oversight. Accountability measures will be tied to performance metrics and service level agreements outlined in the contract. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases, though specific performance details may be sensitive.

Related Government Programs

Federal Protective Service Contracts
Department of Homeland Security Security Services
General Services Administration (GSA) Schedule Contracts for Security
Department of Defense Security Contracts

Risk Flags

Potential for high cost if not closely managed.
Dependence on contractor performance for critical security functions.
Need for robust oversight to ensure service quality and compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Agriculture awarded $31.7 million to VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC. ARMED SECURITY SERVICES FOR HEADQUARTERS, WASHINGTON DC, AND GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER CENTER, BELTSVILLE, MD.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Agriculture (Office of the Chief Financial Officer).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $31.7 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2025-02-01. End: 2027-02-15.

What is the historical spending pattern for security services at the Department of Agriculture's headquarters and the George Washington Carver Center?

Analyzing historical spending for security services at these specific Department of Agriculture (USDA) locations is crucial for understanding the context of the $31.7 million award. Without direct historical data for these precise facilities, we can look at broader USDA spending trends or similar agency contracts. Typically, federal agencies allocate significant budgets to security, especially for headquarters and research facilities. Spending can fluctuate based on threat assessments, infrastructure upgrades, and changes in security protocols. A consistent or increasing trend in security spending might indicate a growing need or a proactive approach to risk management. Conversely, a sudden spike could signal a response to a specific incident or a new mandate. Understanding past expenditures helps in evaluating whether the current contract represents a fair market price and if the allocated funds are justified by the services provided and the agency's risk profile.

How does the per-hour cost of security personnel under this contract compare to industry benchmarks for armed guards in the Washington D.C. and Maryland areas?

To assess the value for money, comparing the per-hour cost of security personnel under this $31.7 million contract to industry benchmarks is essential. The contract's total value of $31.7 million over approximately 744 days (roughly 2 years) implies an average annual value of about $15.85 million. If we assume a standard 24/7 operation for multiple posts, the total hours could be substantial. For instance, if the contract covers 10 posts operating 24/7, that's 10 posts * 24 hours/day * 365 days/year = 87,600 hours per year. This would place the average hourly rate around $181 ($15.85M / 87.6K hours), which seems high. However, the number of posts and hours are speculative. Actual benchmarks for armed security guards in the D.C. metro area can range from $40 to $80+ per hour, depending on the level of armament, training, experience, and specific duties. If the calculated hourly rate significantly exceeds this range, it could indicate potential overpricing or a scope of services more complex than standard guard duties. Conversely, a rate within or below this range would suggest competitive pricing.

What specific security risks or threats does this contract aim to mitigate for the Department of Agriculture?

This contract for armed security services is designed to mitigate a range of potential risks and threats targeting the Department of Agriculture's (USDA) facilities, personnel, and assets. Key risks include unauthorized access, theft of sensitive information or equipment, workplace violence, terrorism, and vandalism. The presence of armed guards serves as a significant deterrent to criminal activity and provides an immediate response capability in the event of an active threat. For USDA, which handles critical agricultural data, research, and potentially sensitive biological materials, the protection of laboratories, data centers, and administrative offices is paramount. The contract aims to ensure the safety and security of employees, visitors, and government property, thereby maintaining the operational integrity and public trust in the agency's mission.

What is the track record of VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC in providing similar armed security services to federal agencies?

Assessing the track record of VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC is crucial for understanding their capability to fulfill this $31.7 million contract. A review of federal contract databases (like FPDS or SAM.gov) would reveal past awards, performance evaluations (if available), and the types of services they have provided to government entities. Key indicators include their experience with similar-sized contracts, the duration of their previous engagements, and any reported performance issues or commendations. Agencies often look for contractors with a proven history of reliability, adherence to security protocols, and effective incident response. If VISION QUEST SOLUTIONS INC has a history of successful performance on comparable federal contracts, particularly those involving armed personnel and sensitive facilities, it increases confidence in their ability to meet the Department of Agriculture's requirements. Conversely, any significant past performance issues would raise concerns.

How does the number of bidders (6) reflect the level of competition and potential impact on pricing for this security services contract?

The participation of 6 bidders in this full and open competition for armed security services is a positive indicator of a reasonably competitive market. Generally, a higher number of bidders suggests that multiple companies are interested and capable of performing the required services, which tends to drive down prices and improve the quality of offers. With 6 bidders, the Department of Agriculture had a solid pool from which to select the best value proposal. This level of competition reduces the risk of the agency being locked into a contract with a single provider or paying inflated prices due to limited options. It allows for a more robust price discovery process, where contractors must offer competitive rates and demonstrate strong performance capabilities to win the award. The agency's ability to attract 6 bidders implies that the contract requirements were well-defined and the opportunity was perceived as valuable within the industry.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Investigation and Security Services › Security Guards and Patrol Services

Product/Service Code: UTILITIES AND HOUSEKEEPING › HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: 12314424Q0163

Offers Received: 6

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 13212 COMMODORE RD, HOT SPRINGS, SD, 57747

Business Categories: 8(a) Program Participant, American Indian Owned Business, Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Government, HUBZone Firm, Native American Tribal Government, Minority Owned Business, Native American Owned Business, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business, Small Business, Special Designations, Subchapter S Corporation, U.S.-Owned Business, Veteran Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $79,788,353

Exercised Options: $79,788,353

Current Obligation: $31,691,743

Actual Outlays: $13,724,831

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 47QSWA23D005Q

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline