Intent to Sole Source Notice IVC Animal Racks

Special Notice Special Notice Page 3 of 3 Special Notice *= Required Field Special Notice Page 1 of 3 This is a notice of intent to award a sole source contract and is not a request for quotes. The Department of Veterans Affairs WNY Healthcare System intends to award a Firm Fixed Price Sole-Source action to:

Name of Contractor:

Allentown, LLC Street Address:

165 Route 526 City, State, Zip: Allentown, NJ 08501 The VA WNY Healthcare System Research Department is requesting the procurement of four IVC (individually ventilated cage) racks (80 cage capacity per rack) and the required supply/vent blowers, hose assembly and wall connections. Each unit will also be equipped with automatic watering capabilities. Obtaining these racks will allow for continued use of existing cages at Buffalo VA Medical Center.

These cages and racks are utilized to ensure the safety of the animals and the staff members. The racks allow for each cage to be ventilated permitting fresh air to enter each cage separately which will reduce the potential spreading of pathogens throughout the colony. It protects the staff by reducing the number of allergens in the air as the rack is connected directly to the exhaust system within the room. There are currently older style racks in use in the VMU which hold open-air cages.

This system of housing is no longer permissible according to regulations and AAALAC s recommendations. The VMU currently owns cages and lids that are specific to the racks being requested. The system includes the racks and corresponding blower systems, including connectors which are compatible with current infrastructure in animal room. This notice of intent to award a sole source contract is not a request for competitive proposals. There will be no solicitation available for competitive quotes.

Any response to this notice must show clear and convincing evidence that competition would be advantageous to the Government. Respondents are advised that the Government is under no obligation to acknowledge receipt of the information received or provide feedback to respondents with respect to any information submitted. If no affirmative written response is received by Closing Date/Time, the contract will be issued without further notice.