A3 Q and A 1 Chatsworth Headhouse.docx

1. During the site meeting on 3/29/23, it was noticed that bushes are present at the front of the head house. Are the bushes surrounding the building intended to be removed and replaced in kind? If so, please provide a spec on the bushes.

0. USDA Response: Any bushes that are removed to facilitate construction activities do not have to be replaced. All other bushes are to remain.

1. In Reference to Plan Sheet A103, Building Elevation Section, Section A: How far does the new footing extend away from the building? Please verify offset placement of the footing.

1. USDA Response: A 16” wide footing that is excavated to a 7”offset from the centerline of the new exterior wall would extend 9”away from the centerline of the exterior wall towards the building exterior.

1. In Reference to plan sheet A101 and A102, Key note # 17: Only 1 of the 3 existing slabs have been called to be removed. One slab is located at the front entrance of the building, and one slab is located at the western corridor. A101 does not reflect existing conditions, please confirm if the two slabs referenced are to be removed and reconstructed.

2. USDA Response: Both slabs are to be removed and replaced.

1. Reference is made to specifications document page number 10, section D where it states the period of performance to be 180 calendar days. The solicitation states 210 calendar days. Please confirm the correct POP.

3. USDA Response: Construction is one-hundred-eighty (180) Calendar days; the solicitation provides an additional thirty (30) days to obtain bonds, submittal approvals and associated administrative tasks. The construction schedule should identify all tasks to be performed within the two-hundred-ten (210) calendar days.

1. Reference is made to specification section 01 01 00, general requirements. Will the facility be occupied during construction?

4. USDA Response: The greenhouse will remain open and active during construction; the headhouse will be unoccupied.

1. Reference is made to specifications section 01 35 26, Government Safety Requirements where it states the requirement for a Site Safety and Health Officer and Quality Control Manager. Would it be acceptable for the Project Manager to fulfill all these roles?

5. USDA Response: If the Project Manager is on site full time and is qualified it would be acceptable to combine the roles; if the superintendent, who is required to be on site full time, is qualified it would also be acceptable to combine the roles.

1. Reference is made to the provisions and cluses document provided section L.3 where it states the proposal must include a past performance proposal, technical proposal, and business proposal separately from each other. Please confirm.

6. USDA Response: Correct

1. Reference is made to site visit where we notice some existing cracks on the existing concrete slab. Please advise if these cracks need to be repaired.

7. USDA Response: Repair of the existing concrete cracks is only required where new floor finishes are to be installed.

1. In reference to section 024119-3, subsection 3.1A Examination: Please clarify what utilities would be disconnected by the Government before starting Selective Demolition.

8. USDA Response: Contractor will notify Government of the utilities they require to be disconnected for the Contractor to execute the Scope of Work.

1. In reference to section 024119-3, subsection 3.3A Examination: Please clarify what utilities would remain in service for the duration of the project.

9. USDA Response: Based upon on-going research requirements, the Government and Contractor will establish what utilities would remain in service during the pre-construction kick-off meeting.

1. Reference is made to the site visit where we noticed what seems to be a gas vent located on the west side of the south wall. This vent is located right next to the existing slab. Please clarify if this vent would be removed before Selective Demotion begins.

10. USDA Response: The vent removal is part of the demolition Scope of Work

1. Reference is made to the site visit where we noticed what seems to be a gas vent located on the west side of the south wall. Would the utility provider be removing the hardware located on the inside of the building once the service is cut and capped?

11. Removal of hardware located within the building will be the responsibility of the Contractor.