[Bureau of Reclamation Authorization To Pay Contractor Bid Amount in Excess of Actual Costs]

The Bureau of Reclamation requested an advance decision concerning a contractor's claim for the bid amount in excess of its actual and bid bond costs under a contract for aqueduct repairs. GAO held that the Bureau should pay the firm the excess amount of the bid over its actual costs, since: (1) such payment was consistent with the contract's intent, which was clear and unambiguous; and (2) the Bureau was obligated to pay the contractor in accordance with the contract's terms. Accordingly, the claim was allowed.