The State Department is spending over $2 million on drapes for the U.S. Embassy and U.S. diplomatic residences in Moscow, according to a government contract awarded Tuesday.
The award brings an end to a four-month search for a suitable contractor to replace the draperies, which will come in either "silk or faux silk."
"The contractor shall provide the U.S. Embassy Moscow with drapery making and installation service, to include materials, in accordance with mandatory safety requirements," the State Department said. "Services may include the removal and disposal of old draperies, measuring windows for production of draperies, tulles, drape holders and jalousies, sewing draperies and production drape holders and jalousie, mounting drape holders and jalousie, hanging draperies and tulles, dismantling drape holders and jalousie."
The contract is worth $2,150,000.
The need for new drapes was first announced on Nov. 7, and the government held a "pre-quotation conference" on Dec. 5, where prospective bidders were "shown to an Embassy apartment where they could see the current draperies and rods."
The State Department provided detailed instructions for how the drapes shall be hung, including using "threefold pleat" drape tape, and tucking the side edges by 6.5 centimeters.
The basic fabric for the drapes will be in a natural color. "Silk or faux silk" is acceptable.
The award also requires the contractor to keep the peace in the neighborhood surrounding the Embassy.
The contractor shall "take all reasonable precautions for the preservation of peace and protection of persons and property in the neighborhood of the project against unlawful, riotous, or disorderly conduct," the award said.
Another contract specification bans workers from text messaging while driving. Employees will have the day off on the Russian holidays Army Day and International Women’s Day, as well as several others.
The U.S. ambassador to Russia is John F. Tefft, who resides at the Spaso House.