Smithsonian Institution Awards $22.2M Contract for Historic Core Revitalization to Christman Company

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $22,226,388 ($22.2M)

Contractor: Christman Company, the

Awarding Agency: Smithsonian Institution

Start Date: 2024-09-16

End Date: 2026-05-23

Contract Duration: 614 days

Daily Burn Rate: $36.2K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Construction

Official Description: REVITALIZE HISTORIC CORE, EARLY PACKAGE 2-26 PROJECT

Place of Performance

Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20024

State: District of Columbia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Smithsonian Institution obligated $22.2 million to CHRISTMAN COMPANY, THE for work described as: REVITALIZE HISTORIC CORE, EARLY PACKAGE 2-26 PROJECT Key points: 1. The contract focuses on commercial and institutional building construction, specifically for the "REVITALIZE HISTORIC CORE, EARLY PACKAGE 2-26 PROJECT". 2. Awarded via full and open competition, indicating a competitive bidding process. 3. The project duration is 614 days, with an expected completion date of May 23, 2026. 4. The contract type is a definitive contract with a firm fixed price, suggesting cost certainty.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $22.2 million for a historic core revitalization project appears reasonable given the scope and duration. Benchmarking against similar large-scale construction projects for cultural institutions would provide a more precise assessment.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The use of full and open competition suggests that multiple bidders were likely considered, promoting a competitive environment that should drive favorable pricing. The definitive contract structure with a firm fixed price further aids in price discovery and control.

Taxpayer Impact: The competitive bidding process for this revitalization project aims to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently, securing the best value for the historic core improvements.

Public Impact

Enhances a significant historic area, potentially boosting tourism and local economic activity. Preserves and updates critical infrastructure for a national cultural institution. Creates construction jobs and supports related industries during the project lifecycle.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for cost overruns if unforeseen historic preservation challenges arise.
Dependence on timely approvals and permits for historic site work.

Positive Signals

Clear project scope and fixed-price contract mitigate financial risk.
Experienced contractor selected through competitive process.
Defined completion date provides a clear timeline.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Construction sector, specifically commercial and institutional building construction. Spending benchmarks for similar historic preservation and renovation projects can vary widely based on location, scale, and complexity.

Small Business Impact

While the primary awardee is The Christman Company, a large construction firm, opportunities for small businesses may exist as subcontractors for specialized services or material supply. Further analysis would be needed to determine the extent of small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The Smithsonian Institution's oversight will be crucial to ensure adherence to project timelines, budget, and quality standards, particularly given the historic nature of the site. Contract clauses and regular progress reviews are key accountability mechanisms.

Related Government Programs

Commercial and Institutional Building Construction
Smithsonian Institution Contracting
Smithsonian Institution Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for unforeseen conditions in historic structures.
Reliance on specialized historical preservation expertise.
Coordination challenges with ongoing Smithsonian operations.
Weather-related delays impacting construction schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Smithsonian Institution awarded $22.2 million to CHRISTMAN COMPANY, THE. REVITALIZE HISTORIC CORE, EARLY PACKAGE 2-26 PROJECT

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is CHRISTMAN COMPANY, THE.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Smithsonian Institution (Smithsonian Institution).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $22.2 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2024-09-16. End: 2026-05-23.

What specific historic elements are being revitalized, and what is the estimated impact on the building's long-term structural integrity and historical accuracy?

The project details focus on the 'REVITALIZE HISTORIC CORE' but do not specify the exact historic elements. A thorough review of the project's technical specifications and historical preservation plans would be necessary to assess the impact on structural integrity and accuracy. The Smithsonian's commitment to preserving its heritage suggests a high standard will be applied.

How does the firm fixed price of $22.2 million compare to the estimated cost of similar large-scale historic building renovations in the Washington D.C. area?

Without specific comparable projects, a direct cost comparison is difficult. However, $22.2 million for a comprehensive revitalization of a historic core over approximately two years suggests a significant undertaking. Factors like specialized labor, materials, and regulatory compliance for historic sites often drive costs higher than standard construction.

What mechanisms are in place to ensure the effectiveness of the revitalization in terms of improved functionality and visitor experience post-completion?

Effectiveness will likely be measured against pre-defined project objectives related to improved functionality and visitor experience. The Smithsonian's mission-driven approach implies that post-completion assessments will evaluate whether the revitalization meets these goals, potentially through user feedback, operational efficiency metrics, and accessibility improvements.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Construction › Nonresidential Building Construction › Commercial and Institutional Building Construction

Product/Service Code: MAINT, REPAIR, ALTER REAL PROPERTY › MAINT, ALTER, REPAIR NONBUILDINGS

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Solicitation ID: 33330224RF0010021

Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 208 N CAPITOL AVE, LANSING, MI, 48933

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $22,820,374

Exercised Options: $22,820,374

Current Obligation: $22,226,388

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: PRODUCTS OR SERVICES PURSUANT TO FAR 12.102(F)

Cost or Pricing Data: YES

Timeline