Detection Sciences Testing and Applied Research (DSTAR)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Philadelphia District is conducting market research for a Design‑Build construction effort to build a Detection Sciences Testing and Applied Research Center (DSTARC) and a Facility for Energetic Materials Research (FEMR) at the Transportation Security Laboratory, FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center in Egg Harbor Township, NJ. The effort will deliver a roughly 40,000 SF laboratory complex and a 6,000 SF energetic‑materials lab, plus site infrastructure (parking, roads, utilities). The work must meet stringent security (Top‑Secret/SCI) and blast‑hardening requirements, integrate with existing TSL IT and fire systems, and comply with environmental permits for the NJ Pinelands reserve. The anticipated contract value is $25‑$75 M, with a 1,095‑day performance period, and will be awarded via a Firm‑Fixed‑Price Design‑Build “Best Value” procurement anticipated in April‑July 2027. • Location: Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey (FAA William J. Hughes Technical Center) • Scope: Design‑Build of ~46,000 SF of high‑security laboratories, blast‑hardened spaces, office, conference, and support facilities; site improvements (parking, roads, utilities) • Key technical requirements: Top‑Secret/SCI document handling, blast‑hardening to 5 g (labs) and up to 2 kg (energetic‑materials lab), independent HVAC for chemistry spaces, integration with existing fire, security, and IT systems, enhanced commissioning, compliance with NJ Pinelands and storm‑water regulations • Estimated construction magnitude: $25 M – $75 M • Schedule: 1,095 calendar days (≈3 years) • Procurement: Firm‑Fixed‑Price Design‑Build, “Best Value” selection, anticipated solicitation issuance April–July 2027 • Small‑business participation encouraged (SB, 8(a), HUBZone, SDVOSB, WOSB) • Primary market‑research contact: Eric Leach (email provided)