The request for quotation (RFQ) was issued on December 19, 2003 as planned. The deadline for response was January 7, 2004. An initial voluntary down select was made on January 9. We remain on schedule for a February 20, 2004 award of the contract. As stated earlier, the intent is to begin a campaign in the late spring 2004.

The Government cannot disclose the number or names of the companies that have responded to the RFQ. This is to ensure the integrity of the procurement process. After the award of the contract, both a press release and a TINews will be issued to announce the selected firm.

If you have any further questions, please direct them to tourism@noaa.gov.