EPA awards $5.18M contract for Silver Bow OU13 feasibility study, remediation oversight

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $5,180,861 ($5.2M)

Contractor: CDM Federal Programs Corporation

Awarding Agency: Environmental Protection Agency

Start Date: 2020-12-11

End Date: 2028-09-27

Contract Duration: 2,847 days

Daily Burn Rate: $1.8K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: Other

Official Description: RAF DES TASK ORDER FOR SILVER BOW OU13; FEASIBILITY STUDY(FS) THROUGH ROD WITH OVERSIGHT OF REMEDIAL DESIGN(RD) AND REMEDIAL ACTION(RA)

Place of Performance

Location: DENVER, DENVER County, COLORADO, 80202

State: Colorado Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Environmental Protection Agency obligated $5.2 million to CDM FEDERAL PROGRAMS CORPORATION for work described as: RAF DES TASK ORDER FOR SILVER BOW OU13; FEASIBILITY STUDY(FS) THROUGH ROD WITH OVERSIGHT OF REMEDIAL DESIGN(RD) AND REMEDIAL ACTION(RA) Key points: 1. Contract focuses on critical environmental remediation planning and oversight. 2. Long duration suggests complex, multi-phase environmental cleanup. 3. Cost-plus-fixed-fee structure incentivizes efficient cost management. 4. Full and open competition indicates a robust bidding process. 5. Contractor has experience in federal environmental programs. 6. Potential for significant long-term environmental impact and cost.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $5.18 million for a feasibility study and oversight of remediation activities appears reasonable given the long duration (nearly 8 years) and the complexity of environmental cleanup projects. While specific benchmarks for this exact type of study are difficult to ascertain without more granular data, the EPA typically engages in competitive bidding for such services to ensure value. The cost-plus-fixed-fee (CPFF) pricing structure is common for complex projects where scope may evolve, but it requires careful monitoring to ensure costs remain controlled.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple qualified bidders had the opportunity to submit proposals. This level of competition is generally favorable for price discovery and ensures the government can select the most capable and cost-effective solution. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the designation implies a competitive environment was maintained.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition typically leads to better pricing for taxpayers by fostering a competitive environment among contractors, driving down costs and improving the quality of services offered.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are the residents and environment of the Silver Bow Superfund site, with improved cleanup strategies. Services include feasibility studies, remedial design oversight, and remedial action oversight. Geographic impact is localized to the Silver Bow Operable Unit 13. The contract supports specialized environmental consulting and remediation workforces.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Long contract duration could lead to cost overruns if not managed tightly.
CPFF contracts can incentivize cost increases if oversight is insufficient.
Environmental remediation projects are inherently complex and prone to unforeseen challenges.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive process.
Contractor is CDM Federal Programs Corporation, likely experienced in similar federal projects.
Clear definition of tasks (feasibility study, RD/RA oversight) provides focus.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Environmental Services sector, specifically focusing on Superfund site remediation. The market for environmental consulting and remediation services is substantial, driven by regulatory requirements and ongoing cleanup efforts at numerous federal sites. This contract represents a specific task order within a broader framework for managing environmental liabilities, fitting into the EPA's mission to protect human health and the environment.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). As a full and open competition, it's possible small businesses could participate as prime contractors or subcontractors. However, the nature of large-scale environmental remediation often favors larger firms with extensive resources and specialized expertise, potentially limiting direct prime contracting opportunities for small businesses in this specific award.

Oversight & Accountability

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the awarding and overseeing agency. Oversight mechanisms would include regular progress reports, site inspections, and financial reviews inherent to CPFF contracts. The Inspector General's office would have jurisdiction for audits and investigations into potential fraud, waste, or abuse. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and public reporting on Superfund site progress.

Related Government Programs

Superfund Program
Environmental Remediation Services
Federal Cleanup Contracts
Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee Contracts

Risk Flags

Long contract duration
Cost-plus-fixed-fee contract type
Complexity of environmental remediation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Environmental Protection Agency awarded $5.2 million to CDM FEDERAL PROGRAMS CORPORATION. RAF DES TASK ORDER FOR SILVER BOW OU13; FEASIBILITY STUDY(FS) THROUGH ROD WITH OVERSIGHT OF REMEDIAL DESIGN(RD) AND REMEDIAL ACTION(RA)

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is CDM FEDERAL PROGRAMS CORPORATION.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Environmental Protection Agency (Environmental Protection Agency).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $5.2 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2020-12-11. End: 2028-09-27.

What is the track record of CDM Federal Programs Corporation with the EPA and similar environmental contracts?

CDM Federal Programs Corporation has a significant history of working with the EPA and other federal agencies on environmental projects. They are known for providing a range of services including planning, design, construction management, and operations for environmental programs. Their experience often includes complex remediation efforts at Superfund sites, hazardous waste management, and water/wastewater infrastructure projects. Reviewing their past performance on similar contracts, particularly those involving feasibility studies and oversight of remedial actions, would provide insight into their capability to execute this specific task order effectively and within budget. Data on past performance ratings and any contract disputes or awards would be crucial for a comprehensive assessment.

How does the estimated cost compare to similar EPA feasibility studies and oversight contracts?

Benchmarking the $5.18 million cost for this contract requires comparing it to similar EPA feasibility studies and remedial action oversight contracts, considering factors like site complexity, duration, and specific services required. Without access to a database of comparable contract values and detailed scopes of work, a precise comparison is challenging. However, the nearly 8-year duration suggests a substantial undertaking. The EPA's contracting data, often available through resources like USASpending.gov, could reveal average costs per year or per phase for similar projects. The cost-plus-fixed-fee structure also means the final cost could vary, making direct comparisons difficult unless the fixed fee component and estimated costs are analyzed.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they being mitigated?

The primary risks associated with this contract include potential cost overruns due to the inherent uncertainties in environmental remediation, scope creep, contractor performance issues, and unforeseen site conditions. The long duration increases the risk of schedule delays and escalating costs. Mitigation strategies likely involve robust EPA oversight, detailed performance metrics, regular progress reviews, and adherence to the fixed-fee component of the CPFF contract. The contractor's experience and the competitive bidding process also serve as risk-reduction factors, selecting a capable firm. Clear communication protocols and change management processes are essential for addressing unforeseen issues.

How effective has CDM Federal Programs Corporation been in managing environmental remediation projects for the government?

Assessing the effectiveness of CDM Federal Programs Corporation requires analyzing their past performance data, including project completion rates, adherence to budget and schedule, quality of deliverables, and client satisfaction feedback from previous government contracts. Publicly available contract databases and performance rating systems (like Past Performance Information Retrieval System - PPIRS) can offer insights. Generally, firms that consistently win competitive bids for complex federal environmental projects demonstrate a level of effectiveness. However, a detailed review of specific project outcomes, any penalties or awards, and client testimonials would provide a more definitive answer regarding their effectiveness in managing environmental remediation.

What is the historical spending pattern for environmental remediation services by the EPA?

The EPA's historical spending on environmental remediation services, particularly through its Superfund program, is substantial and has been a consistent part of its budget for decades. Annual spending fluctuates based on the number and complexity of sites undergoing cleanup, the phase of remediation (investigation, design, construction, long-term monitoring), and available appropriations. Data from sources like the EPA's own budget reports and USASpending.gov show billions of dollars allocated annually to cleanup activities across the nation. This contract represents a small but important component of that overall spending, focused on a specific site and task.

What are the potential long-term environmental and cost implications of the Silver Bow OU13 remediation?

The long-term environmental implications of the Silver Bow OU13 remediation are expected to be positive, aiming to reduce or eliminate hazardous substances and protect human health and the ecosystem. However, the cost implications can be significant and long-lasting. Superfund cleanups are often multi-year, multi-million dollar endeavors, and this contract is just one part of that process. The ultimate cost will depend on the chosen remedy's effectiveness, the need for long-term monitoring and maintenance, and any unforeseen complications. Taxpayers bear the financial responsibility, making efficient management and cost control crucial throughout the project lifecycle.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Remediation and Other Waste Management Services › Remediation Services

Product/Service Code: NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT › ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS PROTECTION

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: 68HE0820R0018

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 10560 ARROWHEAD DR STE 500, FAIRFAX, VA, 22030

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $7,984,222

Exercised Options: $7,981,251

Current Obligation: $5,180,861

Actual Outlays: $3,052,972

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 1

Total Subaward Amount: $31,270

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 68HE0318D0003

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline