When in the life of a restoration project does PBC start to be attractive?
The decision to move forward with a PBC depends on the specific site and installation. The determination as to when a site (or installation) should be considered for this approach depends on the ability for the Army to bound the uncertainties associated with remaining decisions. Sites that have completed (or are close to completing) the investigation and assessment phase where the contaminants of concern, media, and extent of contamination are understood, and where the path forward toward a remedy is clear (i.e., a presumptive remedy) may pose ideal candidates. The balance that has to be struck by the Army during candidate evaluation is determining at what point the uncertainties can be managed such that costs associated with a fixed price bid are not prohibitive. In some cases, this is only achieved once a Record of Decision or other Decision Document is signed. However, if the decision document is too prescriptive, the offerors do not have the flexibility desired for the PBC approach
