Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast awarded a $11.4 million contract May 26 to HICAPS, Inc., a small business based in Greensboro, North Carolina, to renovate interior and exterior portions of Bachelor Enlisted Quarters (BEQ) Building 822.

BEQ Building 822 is a bachelor housing complex consisting of three, three-story buildings at Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville, Florida.

"Plans began in 2012 to complete the much needed renovation of Building 822," explained NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Howard Wanamaker. "The award of this project will improve the quality of life for our warfighters, while extending the overall sustained habitability of the building."

The award provides for design, demolition, repair and renovations work -- including exterior and interior finishes; Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system replacement; interior electrical distribution and lighting renovations; and exterior door replacement. The project will bring BEQ Building 822 up to code and ensure Navy standards compliance for life safety and accessibility for the Sailors and Marines housed there.

Work is expected to be completed by November 2018.

Small businesses (which includes 8(a) firms) play a vital role in the American economy -- employing half of our country's workforce, creating nearly two out of every three new American jobs, and often being the source of the next great American innovation. NAVFAC Southeast strives to meet its goals, building on its success by providing contract opportunities to these businesses.

"Small business is the backbone to our economy," said Mark Brock, NAVFAC Southeast small business deputy. "NAVFAC Southeast is committed to providing small business opportunities. This is a win for the taxpayer, the nation, and the Navy."

Each year NAVFAC establishes target goals for Small Business, Small Disadvantaged Business, Historically Underutilized Business Zone Small Business, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, and Women-Owned Small Business categories. The maximum practicable utilization of small business concerns is a matter of national interest with both social and economic benefits.

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