Dry Dock Inspection and Engine Repairs of Motor Vessel Moline

A firm-fixed-price commercial services contract was awarded to Dubuque Barge and Fleeting Service Co. in support of dry dock inspection and engine repairs for Motor Vesssel Moline, described as "vessel" herein. Award was made on a sole source basis, because the closest available dry dock was Dubuque Barge and Fleeting Service Co., which is located in Pool 11, roughly 4 miles from where the vessel was moored. The vessel had a significant vibration and was suspected of having a worn propeller shaft bearing. This vibration required immediate inspection and repair. Continued operation of the vessel in such condition was unsafe and could have resulted in the vessel taking on significant amounts of water if the shaft bearing were to fail. Additionally, continued operation of the vessel in such condition greatly fatigues other components of the vessel's running gear. It was unsafe for the vessel to attemt to travel long distances, which is why other drydocks beyond Dubuque Brage and Fleeting Service Co. were not an option.