Attachment 12 Solicitation Requests for Information.pdf

1232SA26R0020, Amendment 1

Amendment 1, Solicitation Requests for Information and additional information.

Offerors must acknowledge this amendment. See instructions in Box 11 of the SF 30.

Due time and date has been updated to 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on June 16, 2026.

RFIs and Attachments posted with this Amendment will become attachments to the eventual contract, with the updated listing to be:

• Attachment 1 – Ft. Pierce Final Drawing Set Part 1

• Attachment 2 – Ft. Pierce Final Drawing Set Part 2

• Attachment 3 – Ft. Pierce Final Drawing Set Part 3

• Attachment 4 – Ft. Pierce Final Drawing Set Part 4

• Attachment 5 – Ft. Pierce Final Specifications

• Attachment 6 – Wage Determination UPDATED

• Attachment 7 – As-builts

• Attachment 8 – Horticulture Research Lab Hazardous Materials Survey

• Attachment 9 – Picos Research Farm Hazardous Materials Survey

• Attachment 10 – Leesburg Farm Asbestos Survey

• Attachment 11 – Photos

• Attachment 12 – Solicitation Requests for Information

1. Will you provide the sign-in sheet, and will a list of the plan holders be released?

Answer: Plans are publicly available on SAM.gov so a list of plan holders is not able to be produced. Sign-in sheets are attached to this amendment.

2. Is this project tax exempt? If so, can we please acquire a tax-exempt certificate?

Answer: In Florida, contractors and subcontractors are considered the final consumers of materials they use in real property construction. Their purchases are taxable, even when working on state, local, or municipal government projects.

3. Is it possible to have another round of RFI’s scheduled in June with an additional site walk?

Answer: No.

4. Can the due date be pushed out for this project?

Answer: Due date extended.

5. Confirm that the Government will allow proposer a minimum of fourteen (14) calendar days to respond to the RFP starting from the date that the Government responds to 100% of the RFIs received.

Answer: Due date extended.

6. Will the Government recognize relevant experience of affiliated sister companies to the offeror (subsidiaries with the same parent company who share executive leadership, follow similar policies and procedures for business operations, and utilize the same business management systems) where the offeror demonstrates that such affiliates will have meaningful involvement in contract performance?

Answer: Yes, so long as the offeror demonstrates how the relationship, structure, guidance, will contribute to the successful completion of the project.

7. Please clarify if all the items identified in the section “Submission Document”, including the Transmittal Summary Letter, signed SF1442 and SF30s, Bid Bond, References, and technical capability narrative, are to be provided in a single document (volume).

Answer: Please provide each of the four submission items as separate files. The SF1442 and SF30s can be combined in a single document.

8. Please clarify if pricing should be provided in a separate volume from the main submission document.

Answer: Please provide pricing as a separate PDF.

9. Is the Schedule of Items on page 1 of 31 of the solicitation the only pricing data required for submission?

Answer: Specifications require that Uniformat II Level 3 pricing be provided within 7 days of proposal. This is being updated to 3 days. Contractors may submit with initial proposal, but additional time is being given in case Contractors receive updated quotes at the last minute.

10. Item 4 under “Submission Document” states “Technical capability should include a detailed explanation of the offeror’s ability to perform the required services, including management approach and coordination of work.” In order to ensure that contractors can be properly evaluated, please provide more specifics regarding what is expected as part of this narrative.

Answer: Narrative should provide a detailed explanation of the offeror’s ability and planned approach to perform the required services. This can include key personnel and key subcontractors necessary to accomplish the scope of work. Narrative should include specific information of how you intend to address the work in the contract, as well as how your experience and previous projects support successful completion of this project.

Because of the phasing requirements to support continued research, project management and coordination will need to be addressed both in approach and experience.

11. Are there any page limitations for the relevant construction experience references?

Answer: The combined total page limit for all information to be conveyed in Submission Document part 4 is 15 pages. Cover letter should be no more than 1 page.

12. Are there any page limitations for the technical capability section?

Answer: The combined total page limit for all information to be conveyed in Submission Document part 4 is 15 pages. Cover letter should be no more than 1 page.

13. Are there any font size limitations for the technical capability section?

Answer: No smaller than 11 point.

14. Please confirm that there are no submission requirements for FACTOR 5: Past Performance and that the Government will conduct their own review of the CPARS system.

Answer: Government will review CPARS and no submission is required.

15. Please confirm that the bid guarantee amount is correct: “A bid guarantee is required in an amount not less than 20 percent of the proposed price but shall not exceed $300,000” (item 3 on page 26 of 31). Typically, the “shall not exceed” amount for a project of this magnitude would be higher.

Answer: The $300,000.00 number is a typo and should read $3,000,000.00.

16. Please clarify where required Representations and Certifications should be included in our response (for example, 52.209-12 Certification Regarding Tax Matters).

Answer: Answer: Any provisions required for certification that are not included in your SAM.gov profile will need to be included in your response. Upon additional review, the funding in this project does not require 52.209-12 certification and therefore is not required.

17. Can you please send the full text of the incorporated clauses pertaining to this project?

Answer: Full Text is available at https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52.

18. Can you preapprove substitutions from the basis of design?

Answer: Substitutions are not preapproved prior to proposal. Approval occurs at time of submittal. Contractor is responsible for ensuring that their proposal is based on meeting all solicitation requirements.

19. If the project value is more that $10M the formula below will not cover the cost as $300K is 20% of $6M so the bonding will not cover the bid. Typically, that sentence would read 20% of the bid or $3M whichever is less. Are you able to confirm the amount ($300K or $3M) you need the bid bond?

https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52 https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52

Answer: The $300,000.00 number is a typo and should read $3,000,000.00.

20. If Bid Options 1-5 are exercised after initial award, please confirm whether the 365-calendar-day completion period is adjusted for later option exercise or remains measured from the original Notice to Proceed.

Answer: 365 Days is the total completion time for the project. The Base Bid and Options 1- 3 will be phased. Bid Options 4 and 5 can run concurrently. Phasing for the work at the Horticulture Center can be performed as follows:

• Base Bid - 5 months

• 2-week mobilization for next phase

• Bid Option 1 – 3 Months

• 2-week mobilization for next phase

• Bid Options 2 & 3 (or just 2 if option 3 is not exercised) 3 months.

21. Site visit discussions indicated confusion on the bid hold date for the base bid, options, and how they relate to the period of performance. Please clarify the intent to award all intended options at the time of the original award and how the period of performance will be calculated.

Answer: When options are used, it is customary for the Government to indicate a date or time later than award for option pricing to be awarded. However, the Government has determined that the exercise of options after initial award is not probable and therefore is removing the extended time allowing award of options after initial award. Any options to be awarded will be included in the initial award.

22. What is the timeline between the substantial completion of bid option 1 for the USDA to move plants and experiments from bid option area 2 and 3 to area 1 for continuation of construction Answer: 2 weeks

23. Will funding for each CLIN be issued together in order or out of sequence since this will impact mobilization cost? Is this federal property or is it leased?

Answer: Any options to be awarded will be awarded at time of initial award, including the associated funds.

24. Site visit discussion indicated areas included in option 2 and 3 are ‘clean’ certified. Please confirm that these areas are to be phased after completion of bid option 1 to create a finished space for the plants and experiments in the areas of 2 and 3.

Answer: That is a correct assumption.

25. Are there any security badging or background checks required?

Answer: Contractor security badging will be provided. Contractor to supply list of personnel with Driver’s License Number.

26. What are the normal working hours?

Answer: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Monday – Friday with exception of Federal Government Holidays.

27. Is the period of performance (POP) of 365-days for all five (5) options or just the base?

Answer: All 5 options.

28. Will an extension be considered to the POP listed in the solicitation?

Answer: Extensions to the period of performance are allowed for the reasons stated in FAR 52.249-10.

29. Will we need to hold pricing for 60 days or longer?

Answer: The pricing is to be held for 60 days. If negotiations are needed, the 60 days will be reset at time of revised proposal.

30. Will this be awarded this year? If so, when is the award planned?

Answer: The Government intends to award within 60 days.

31. If additional funding is provided, will we need to remobilize or do we price it as one project?

Answer: Any options to be awarded will be awarded at time of initial award.

32. What are the anticipated NTP and site availability (to begin site work) dates? Are there known funding hold periods or congressional authorization constraints that need to be taken into consideration?

Answer: All evaluation and notification considerations have been integrated into the 60 days prior to award. Notice to Proceed is anticipated to be issued shortly after performance and payment bonds and any pre-NTP requirements are received.

33. Will there be USDA research planting seasons that restrict when we can complete certain phases (e.g., growing crops in adjacent greenhouses that cannot be disturbed)?

Answer: No

34. What should be the anticipated review turnaround time for greenhouse shop drawings ('G' designated submittals)? How early before mobilization do we need to submit?

Answer: Normal turnaround for shop drawings is 14 days. That would depend on lead time for materials.

35. For Bid Option 5 (Leesburg, ~150 miles away), is that scope expected to run concurrently with Fort Pierce or as a separate mobilization on a separate schedule?

Answer: Bid options 4 and 5 may run concurrently with Base Bid and Option 1-3.

36. What are the Buy America requirements for greenhouse aluminum structure components and polycarbonate panels? Are all specified products domestically sourced? Are all specified products outside of the structure (e.g., environmental controls) also subject to this requirement?

Answer: Law mandates that all iron, steel, manufactured products and specific construction materials permanently incorporated into infrastructure project must be produced in the United States. Manufactured projects must be assembled in the US and more than 55% of the total cost of all components must be mined, produced or manufactured domestically.

37. Will hourly rates for Davis Bacon be locked in based on the published rates as of RFP submission (will not be updated if changed within the duration of the project)?

Answer: Wage Determination is set at time of award. The Wage Determination was updated on May 17, 2026, so the revised rates are attached and will be integrated into the award.

38. What hours/days can construction workers access the site?

Answer: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM Monday – Friday with exception of Federal Government Holidays.

39. Who schedules the required rainfall simulation test (AE/GC)?

Answer: The GC.

40. The specifications state that storage space is subject to Contracting Officer approval and that roads, walks, entrances, and parking areas must remain clear unless noted. Please identify approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, and any areas that are off-limits at each project site.

Answer: No specific approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, or off-limits areas are identified or designated on the drawings. Contractor shall propose locations and obtain Contracting Officer approval. Per C100 GN-11 (site security), GN-12 (clean condition), GN-13 (safety), and GN-14 (temporary facilities), keep roads, walks, entrances, and parking areas clear unless otherwise noted.

Coordinate with CO to avoid interference with operations.

41. The specifications state that Government power and water sources will be available as long as use does not interfere with operations, but civil notes also state the Contractor shall provide temporary water, power, phone, and toilet facilities as required. Please confirm which existing power and water sources may be used by the Contractor, where they are located, and whether metering, backflow prevention, temporary panels, or usage charges are required.

Answer: Per C100 GN-14: Contractor shall provide temporary water, power, phone, and toilet facilities as required. Government power/water sources may be used only if they do not interfere with operations (per specs). If Government utilities are to be employed from the campus, they will be approved and coordinated by Contracting Officer.

42. Please clarify site access requirements for all three locations, including working hours, escort requirements, badging requirements, weekend/after-hours work restrictions, delivery access, and whether subcontractors must be escorted at all times. The specifications state that valid photo ID and USDA escort are required for access.

Answer: Site access requirements (photo ID, USDA escort, badging, hours, delivery access, subcontractor escort) are addressed in specifications (as referenced in the RFI).

Coordinate exact requirements with Contracting Officer and USDA.

43. The General Requirements state that all employees shall have OSHA 10-hour training and supervisors shall have OSHA 30-hour training. Please confirm whether this applies to every worker on site, including delivery drivers, vendors, testing agencies, manufacturer representatives, and short-duration specialty subcontractors.

Answer: The civil drawings (including C100 General Notes, Preparation and Safety notes PS-1 through PS-3, and GN-13) do not address or modify the OSHA training requirements stated in the General Requirements. Those notes require only that all work be performed safely, in an orderly manner, with suitable barriers, and in accordance with applicable safety codes and standards. The requirement as stated in the General Requirements (OSHA 10-hour training for all employees and 30-hour training for supervisors) therefore applies to every worker on site, including delivery drivers, vendors, testing agencies, manufacturer representatives, and short-duration specialty subcontractors. The Contractor remains fully responsible for ensuring compliance.

44. The General Requirements require documentation that submitted materials comply with Buy America Act requirements and that BioPreferred products be used to the greatest extent possible. Please confirm the specific domestic preference clause applicable to this project and identify which materials require Buy American/Buy America certifications.

Answer: Law mandates that all iron, steel, manufactured products and specific construction materials permanently incorporated into infrastructure project must be produced in the United States. Manufactured projects must be assembled in the US and more than 55% of the total cost of all components must be mined, produced or manufactured domestically.

45. The electrical notes require separate pricing for demolition and new work based on the areas shown on the bid option key plan. Please confirm whether each bid option price must include all related general conditions, bonds, insurance, supervision, mobilization, overhead, and profit independently, or whether those costs should be carried only in the Base Bid.

Answer: The Contractor must include all pricing required in order to complete the base bis and subsequent bid options in their entirety. All related supervision, mobilization, overhead, etc. must be included for each portion.

46. The solicitation allows stored material payments only under specific conditions and at the Contracting Officer’s discretion. Due to likely long-lead greenhouse materials, polycarbonate panels, metal buildings, fans, controls, and electrical equipment, please confirm whether stored material payments will be considered for these items if stored off-site or at the manufacturer’s facility.

Answer: They will be considered for payment, however the location of storage must be within 2 hours of the Ft. Pierce site to allow for site checks, as well as meeting all other requirements.

47. The specifications require the bidding contractor’s estimate in Uniformat II Level 3 detail within 7 days after bids are received. Please confirm whether this requirement applies to all bidders after bid opening or only the apparent successful offeror.

Answer: This applies to all bidders and is being updated to 3 days.

48. Please confirm the order of precedence between solicitation, drawings, specifications, manufacturer requirements, and bid option descriptions where conflicts occur, especially for delegated-design greenhouse systems, pesticide storage building requirements, and utility tie-in requirements.

Answer: The drawings and General Notes on Sheet C100 do not establish or modify the order of precedence between the solicitation, drawings, specifications, manufacturer requirements, and bid option descriptions. The means and methods of construction are the Contractor’s responsibility. The Contractor shall review all contract documents and is only required to identify and notify the Contracting Officer of conflicts where such conflicts would prevent the Contractor from completing the work within the required 365-calendar-day Period of Performance. This applies equally to delegated-design greenhouse systems, pesticide storage building requirements, and utility tie-in requirements.

Per C100 GN-1, SC-1, and SC-2, the Contractor is expected to resolve minor discrepancies through its chosen means and methods without impacting the overall project schedule.

49. Are contractors required to issue a contract specific QA/QC Plan?

Answer: Yes.

50. Are contractors required to issue a contract specific Safety Plan?

Answer: Yes. FAR 52.236-13, Accident Prevention, which is commonly required on federal construction contracts requires a site-specific safety plan/APP that is compliant with 29 CFR 1926 guidelines.

51. Will a storm water and erosion control plan be required for this project?

Answer: Yes. Erosion and sediment control measures are required. See C102 General Notes #13: “Contractor shall maintain erosion and sediment control measures during construction and until permanent stabilization is achieved.” Also C100 GN-6 (grading/dewatering to prevent ponding), GN-9, GN-10 (vegetative cover on exposed earth).

Also, see permitting notes (P-1/P-2) on sheet C-100. NPDES will require coordination and a plan to be provided by contractor.

52. The 1442 states that prices are to be held for 60 days, govt stated at the site visit that some costs would be required to be held until end of Sept. Please clarrify which CLINS price needs to e held until end of Sept & which ones for 60 dyas.

Answer: When options are used, it is customary for the Government to indicate a date or time later than award for option pricing to be awarded. However, the Government has determined that the exercise of options after initial award is not probable and therefore is removing the extended time allowing award of options after initial award.

53. When work is being performed at the three different site att eh same time, will the govt require separate supervision at each site.

Answer: Yes.

54. Please identify approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, crane access points, and haul routes for the Ft. Pierce Lab, Picos Farm/Pond, and Groveland/Leesburg sites.

Answer: No specific approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, or off-limits areas are identified or designated on the drawings. Contractor shall propose locations and obtain Contracting Officer approval. Per C100 GN-11 (site security), GN-12 (clean condition), GN-13 (safety), and GN-14 (temporary

55. Will a laydown area be provided to store all materials onsite?

Answer: No specific approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, or off-limits areas are identified or designated on the drawings. Contractor shall propose locations and obtain Contracting Officer approval. Per C100 GN-11 (site security), GN-12 (clean condition), GN-13 (safety), and GN-14 (temporary

56. Have laydown/staging areas (within 200 ft of construction area) for each phase of the project been determined and/or will this be allowed in all locations throughout the project?

Answer: No specific approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, or off-limits areas are identified or designated on the drawings. Contractor shall propose locations and obtain Contracting Officer approval. Per C100 GN-11 (site security), GN-12 (clean condition), GN-13 (safety), and GN-14 (temporary

57. Will an office trailer be required, and if so, what size is required a single-wide or double-wide?

Answer: An office trailer is not required.

58. What are the overhead clearances and road weight limits on the access roads to USHRL, Picos Farm, and Leesburg Farm? We need to confirm routes for flatbed deliveries of long polycarbonate panels and extrusion bundles.

Answer: Contractor to field-verify overhead clearances and road weight limits on access roads to USHRL (Ft. Pierce), Picos Farm, and Leesburg Farm for deliveries (e.g., polycarbonate panels, extrusion bundles).

59. What staging areas are available at each site for aluminum extrusion bundles, polycarbonate panel crates, and MEP equipment?

Answer: No specific approved laydown areas, staging areas, dumpster locations, material delivery routes, contractor parking, or off-limits areas are identified or designated on the drawings. Contractor shall propose locations and obtain Contracting Officer approval. Per C100 GN-11 (site security), GN-12 (clean condition), GN-13 (safety), and GN-14 (temporary

60. The specifications state that work at the Ft. Pierce facility will be phased to allow continual operation during construction, and the mechanical/plumbing/electrical drawings repeatedly reference work being phased in accordance with the “phasing plan.” Please provide the complete required phasing plan, including which greenhouses or areas must remain operational at each phase, allowable outage durations, and any required sequence of work.

Answer: The Phasing Plan and the Base Bid and Options are the same for the Ft. Pierce Horticulture Center it may be possible to combine Bid Options 2 & 3 into one phase.

61. The solicitation notes that the project will be phased to allow continued use during construction and transition of research projects to different greenhouses. Please confirm whether relocation of plants, research materials, benches, tables, irrigation components, and other Government research equipment will be performed by the Government before each phase, or whether the Contractor is required to include this effort.

Answer: The government will relocate all plants, materials etc. before each phase.

62. Please clarify whether existing greenhouse benches, tables, racks, shade systems, irrigation components, sensors, controllers, research equipment, and loose contents are to be salvaged, relocated, protected, or demolished by the Contractor. The drawings identify demolition of greenhouse structures and MEP systems, but do not clearly define responsibility for all interior contents.

Answer: No salvage required unless specifically noted.

63. The demolition specification states that utilities serving each area will be shut off by the Government and disconnected/sealed by the Contractor. Please confirm which utility shutdowns will be performed by the Government, the required advance notice for each shutdown, whether shutdowns are limited to specific hours/days, and whether temporary services are required to maintain adjacent operating facilities.

Answer: The Contractor shall coordinate directly with the Contracting Officer to confirm the exact scheduling, advance notice, hours/days, and any temporary service requirements for Government-performed utility shutdowns prior to starting work. Any conflicts discovered during field verification shall be reported immediately.

64. Civil General Note GN-2 states that existing utilities are approximate, underground utilities and obstructions were not identified during design, and the extent of underground utilities is unknown. Please provide any available utility surveys, as-builts, locator reports, or site utility maps for the Ft. Pierce, Picos Farm/Pond, and Leesburg sites.

Answer: No utility surveys, as-builts, locator reports, or additional site utility maps are provided in the civil drawings beyond limited as-builts provided or utilities observed during on-site discovery. Per C100 GN-2: Existing utilities are approximate; underground utilities and obstructions were not identified during design; extent is unknown. Contractor responsible to verify/locate/protect all utilities (shown or not) prior to excavation and report variances to CO.

65. Since the drawings state that underground utilities and obstructions were not identified during design, please confirm that conflicts with undocumented underground utilities or obstructions that require redesign, relocation, or additional work will be handled as a differing site condition rather than included in the base bid.

Answer: Confirmed. Conflicts requiring redesign/relocation/additional work will be handled as differing site conditions.

66. Please confirm that bid option 4 is not phased and can be performed at any time during the construction period.

Answer: Confirmed - Bid options 4 and 5 may run concurrently with Base Bid and Option 1- 3.

67. Please clarify whether local building, fire, electrical, plumbing, environmental, or utility permits are required at Ft. Pierce, Picos Farm/Pond, and Groveland/Leesburg, and identify which party obtains and pays for permits/fees.

Fire: Current Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) install will be inspected and signed off on June 3rd. Any later modifications (or rebuilding) to existing devices will have to be submitted and approved by Saint Lucie Fire District and subject to post work inspection.

Electrical: Contractor must abide by all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and standards. Contractor must obtain and pay for all fees, permits, and any other fees or licenses associated with all construction activities.

Plumbing: Contractor must abide by all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and standards. Contractor must obtain and pay for all fees, permits, and any other fees or licenses associated with all construction activities.

Environmental: No environmental permits will be required on any of the three work sites.

Utility: Contractor must abide by all federal, state, and local laws, regulations, codes, and standards. Contractor must obtain and pay for all fees, permits, and any other fees or licenses associated with all construction activities.

68. Will this project require permits and who will be responsible for that cost, the owner or

GC?

Answer: Per C100 Permit Notes P-1 - Contractor shall apply for, obtain, pay for, and comply with ALL required permits

69. If permits are required, have the plans been submitted to the local or County building departments for approval?

Answer: NTP/site availability likely after permits secured.

70. Will the state, county, city govt have inspection jurisdiction for the project?

Answer: Yes, the state, county, and/or city governments will have inspection jurisdiction for the project where required by applicable permits and governing codes/ordinances.

Per Sheet C100 (Civil General Notes):

• Permit Note P-1: “THE CONTRACTOR SHALL APPLY FOR, OBTAIN AND COMPLY

WITH ALL REQUIRED PERMITS.”

• General Note GN-16: “ALL CONSTRUCTION SHALL COMPLY WITH ALL GOVERNING

BUILDING CODES AND ORDINANCES.”

• Special Condition SC-4: “ALL WORK SHALL BE PERFORMED IN ACCORDANCE

WITH THESE PLANS AND SPECS, AND THE REQUIREMENTS OF ANY APPROPRIATE

CITY, LOCAL, STATE, OR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AUTHORITIES.”

• Contractor Note CN-2: The Contractor shall perform all work in compliance with all State of Florida and Federal codes, rules, and regulations.

The Contractor is responsible for determining which agencies have jurisdiction, obtaining the permits, scheduling all required inspections, and ensuring compliance. No exemptions from local/state inspection jurisdiction are indicated in the drawings.

71. If the plans have not been submitted for permitting review, will this be considered additional time in the schedule of 365-days?

Answer: NTP/site availability - intent after permits secured.

72. Will a SWPPP be required at any of the locations?

Answer: Yes (erosion/sediment control required; see RFI 51). SWPPP required if site disturbance triggers EPA/FDEP or local thresholds. Contractor responsible to determine and comply.

73. Permit Notes Sheet C100- P-1, P-2 SC-3-Contractor shall apply and comply with all required permits. Note that when plans are submitted to agencies, they will require review time, may have modifications that will result in additional engineering & construction fees, and will result in permit fees which are estimated. Will the GC be required to obtain permits or build following local and applicable building codes?

Answer: Yes

74. Are local or state permits required for this project?

75. If permits are required, will the NTP be released before or after the permits are approved.

Answer: Intent is after

76. Has a comprehensive asbestos survey been completed at all three sites? Can we review the full report?

Answer: Yes. Conducted on February 17, 2026 by Terracon Project No. 34267020

Main Lab Greenhouse Complex site survey: Asbestos was not identified in the samples collected during the February 17, 2026, asbestos survey. Refer to Terracon Project No.

34267020 page 8

Picos Farm Location site survey: Asbestos was not identified in the samples collected during the February 17, 2026, asbestos survey. Refer to Terracon Project No. 34267020

Leesburg Farm site survey: Asbestos was detected in samples of non-friable gray caulking at entrance doors to the northwest and south greenhouses. Refer to Terracon Project No.

34267020 final report letter to Johnson-McAdams dated March 6, 2026

Reports are attached.

77. Were any ACM identified in the greenhouse structures — specifically in glazing compounds, duct insulation, pipe insulation, or caulks at the knee walls? Can required abatement procedures/requirements for each project option be clearly defined in order to price any abatement accordingly?

Answer: The only ACM was detected in samples of non-friable gray caulking at entrance doors to the northwest and south greenhouses at the Leesburg Farm location per February 17, 2026, asbestos survey. Refer to Terracon Project No. 34267020. It is recommended that the proper removal and disposal of the identified asbestos-containing materials by a Florida-licensed asbestos abatement contractor (F.S. 469) prior to demolitions or renovation activities that disturb the ACM.

It should be noted that suspect materials, other than those identified during the February 3, 2026 survey may exist within the structures at the site. Should suspect materials other than those which were identified during this survey be uncovered prior to or during the demolition process, those materials should be assumed asbestos-containing until sampling and analysis can confirm or refute their asbestos content.

78. Please provide hazardous material and asbestos survey reports for all impacted areas and confirm whether the hazardous-material/asbestos scope is limited to Sheet HM101/Leesburg or includes Ft. Pierce and Picos demolition areas.

Answer: Fort Pierce Main Lab Greenhouse Complex site survey: Asbestos was not identified in the samples collected during the February 17, 2026, asbestos survey. Lead was not detected above laboratory reporting limits in the samples collected during the HazMat site survey. Detectable PCB concentrations above the method detection limit were not identified in the 7 collected caulk samples.

Picos Farm Location site survey: Asbestos was not identified in the samples collected during the February 17, 2026, asbestos survey.

Lead was detected above the detection limit in the following two of the seven paint chip samples collected from representative painted building components:

Red Paint on Fiberglass Tank (Sample: L3)

• Well Filter Structure

Grey Paint on Metal Motor (Sample L6)

• Transfer Pump Structure

Contractors should be aware of the presence of these identified lead coatings, so that they may maintain compliance with worker protection regulations, employ lead-safe work practices, and/or conduct a negative exposure assessment per OSHA (29 CFR 1926.62 – Lead Exposure in Construction). If any untested paints are encountered, they must be assumed to contain lead and addressed accordingly for OSHA compliance with the Lead in Construction Standard 29 CFR 1926.62 or otherwise sampled for laboratory analysis in an effort to refute the positive assumption.

No detectable PCB concentrations above the method detection limit were identified in the 7 collected caulk samples. None of the caulk samples exceeded the regulatory threshold of 50 ppm.

Leesburg Farm site survey: Asbestos was detected in samples of non-friable gray caulking at entrance doors to the northwest and south greenhouses. Detectable levels of lead were reported above the laboratory method detection limit in four of the six samples of paint chips.

Contractors should be aware of the presence of these identified lead coatings, so that they may maintain compliance with worker protection regulations, employ lead-safe work practices, and/or conduct a negative exposure assessment per OSHA (29 CFR 1926.62 – Lead Exposure in Construction). If any untested paints are encountered, they must be assumed to contain lead and addressed accordingly for OSHA compliance with the Lead in Construction Standard 29 CFR 1926.62 or otherwise sampled for laboratory analysis in an effort to refute the positive assumption.

No detectable PCB concentrations above the method detection limit were identified in the collected caulk samples.

Refer to Terracon Project No. 34267020 in final A&E Design Submittal

79. Will the lead paint need to be remediated before going into the landfill, or if the lead paint is not disturbed, can it go directly to the landfill with typical waste?

Answer: If analytical results from paint testing are equal to or more than 20 times the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) regulatory limit per 40 CFR 261.24 (Lead is 5mg/L), the waste may be hazardous and must be disposed of at a RCRA subtitle C hazardous waste landfill.

Analytical test results from Leesburg Farm indicated lead above the 100ppm limit in some painted cabinets, beams, and piping.

Likewise, if the total concentration of a chemical is less than 20 times the TCLP regulatory limit, then the sample is not likely to leach a sufficient quantity of that constituent to exceed the TCLP limit and can typically be disposed of at a Class I/II municipal solid waste landfill that accepts C&D debris.

80. The Leesburg hazardous materials plan notes that gray caulk tested positive for ACM and that ACM may be present under current white caulk. Please provide the full asbestos/environmental survey referenced in the drawings, including sample locations, quantities, test results, and abatement limits for all affected areas.

Answer: Reports are attached.

81. Several demolition notes state to assume all paint contains some level of lead and to follow OSHA protection procedures, while allowing disposal of intact painted debris as normal construction waste. Please confirm whether TCLP testing, lead waste profiling, special handling, or disposal as hazardous waste is required for any painted materials disturbed by demolition.

Answer: Lead was found at the Picos Farm in an extremely limited locations and should not affect the stated contract work to be done on that work site.

For the Leesburg Farm Site demo project. If analytical results from paint testing are equal to or more than 20 times the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) regulatory limit (Lead is 5mg/L), the waste may be hazardous and must be disposed of at a RCRA subtitle C hazardous waste landfill.

Analytical test results from Leesburg Farm indicated lead above the 100ppm limit in some painted cabinets, beams, and piping.

Likewise, if the total concentration of a chemical is less than 20 times the TCLP regulatory limit, then the sample is not likely to leach a sufficient quantity of that constituent to exceed the TCLP limit and can typically be disposed of at a Class I/II municipal solid waste landfill that accepts C&D debris.

82. The specifications require a Transportation and Disposal Coordinator with hazardous waste experience and DOT certification. Please confirm whether this requirement applies only if hazardous waste is generated, or whether the Contractor must include this qualified person for the full project regardless of final waste classification.

Answer: It is anticipated that some hazardous waste in the form of asbestos containing materials (ACM) and lead paint will be generated during the execution of this contract at the Leesburg Farm Site.

A Haz Waste disposal coordinator is a highly specialized contractor that, under normal circumstances, would only be necessary when haz waste operations are being conducted.

83. For the Leesburg re-skin greenhouse, has the existing frame been structurally evaluated for reuse? If concealed damage, deformation, or corrosion is discovered, please define the repair/change-order procedure.

Answer: Assume the structure is plumb and square and adequate for new skin. No added weight is anticipated to existing structure.

84. Please confirm insect-screen material, mesh/performance requirements, and installation locations at vents, intakes, corridors, doors, sidewalls, and other greenhouse openings.

Answer: See Specification 13 34 13, Paragraph 2.17. Insect- screen material is as follows:

50 mesh screen, The screen has optic protection - UV protection, 50-52% shade percentage, Weight (gm/m2) - 135-140, Hole size (mm) - 0.25 x 0.71, Ball burst strength – 18, UV resistance (years) – 5, Material – HDPE

85. Please confirm greenhouse environmental control integration requirements, including whether new controls are standalone or must integrate with existing Microgrow/ARS systems, network connections, and remote viewing.

Answer: New Controls are standalone.

86. Please identify allowable shutdown windows and maximum outage durations for electrical, water, gas, telecom/data, fire alarm/security, and controls systems at each site.

Answer: While no shutdowns are anticipated. For adjacent areas still in operation, windows of less than 24 hours can be scheduled during construction if necessary.

87. Please confirm fire alarm scope and tie-in requirements for all Base Bid and option greenhouse areas, including existing panel capacity, addressing, notification appliance requirements, and acceptance testing.

Answer: The horticultural site main building fire alarm system is in the process of being replaced under a separate contract. The system is a Fire Lite Alarms by Honeywell.

Coordinate with contracting officer for shop drawings on system being installed for panel capacity, addressing, and notification appliance requirements.

88. For the Picos Pond filtration/mechanical equipment enclosures, please confirm whether existing equipment must remain operational during construction, required clearances/access, and allowable shutdown windows.

Answer: The existing pumps will remain operational during construction. No set clearances, but access should be available. No shutdown.

89. Micro Grow is the existing controls system. Is there availability to tie into this existing system, or is a completely new system required.

Answer: The existing system is to be demolished.

90. Does the USDA have an approved alternative to MicroGrow or can greenhouse contractor recommend a like-in-kind environmental control? What is the protocol for submitting like-in-kind manufacturers for controls or other components of the project?

Answer: MicroGrow is the industry standard, but Like-in-kind systems will be considered if all specifications, operation protocol and components are met or exceeded.

91. Shade systems in growing zones are noted in the specifications but not on the drawings, please clarify.

Answer: Shades are identified on the building sections. See sheets A301 and A302.

92. Are the greenhouses a sole source from what is listed in the basis of design (BOD)?If leased, I am assuming permitting will be required from the local municipality....yes or no?

Answer: BOD is not sole source for greenhouses.

93. Can a like in kind for the greenhouses that is not listed in the specification and meets those requirements be acceptable? (133413/2.1)

94. Will these greenhouses need to be certified as clean, and who is responsible for that cost, the owner or the GC?

Answer: The USDA will certify as required.

95. How long is it scheduled for the Agricultural Research Services (ARS) Team to relocate plants from the active greenhouses to the new greenhouses (base bid & option-1) once complete?

Answer: Two Weeks

96. Will any temporary air or power be needed during construction of the base bid and options 1-3?

Answer: Temporary gas will be required during Bid Option 1 work for the Base Bid area.

97. Will the lightning protection need to be UL certified?

Answer: No, UL Certification is not required. The intent of the design is to replace the existing lightning protection system as it is currently installed. The existing greenhouse facility does not have a UL certification.

98. Section 010011/1.6 states that existing utility conflicts shall have no additional cost to the Government. This is a high risk for unknown and concealed conditions. Are there existing as-builts of the existing sites?

Answer: We have limited As-Builts, they are attached.

99. Can you please provide as-builts for existing structures and foundations.

Answer: We have limited As-Builts, they are attached.

100. The FAR clause 52.228-5 listed in the solicitation does not state the insurance requirements. What are the minimal insurance requirements, and will these be the same for the GC and trade partners?

Answer: In accordance with FAR 28.307-2, Liability, the following is required:

(a) Workers".compensation.and.employer"s.liability. Contractors are required to comply with applicable Federal and State workers’ compensation and occupational disease statutes. If occupational diseases are not compensable under those statutes, they shall be covered under the employer’s liability section of the insurance policy, except when contract operations are so commingled with a contractor’s commercial operations that it would not be practical to require this coverage. Employer’s liability coverage of at least $100,000 shall be required, except in States with exclusive or monopolistic funds that do not permit workers’ compensation to be written by private carriers.

(b) General liability.

(1) The contracting officer shall require bodily injury liability insurance coverage written on the comprehensive form of policy of at least $500,000 per occurrence.

(2) Property damage liability insurance shall be required only in special circumstances as determined by the agency.

(c) Automobile.liability. The contracting officer shall require automobile liability insurance written on the comprehensive form of policy. The policy shall provide for bodily injury and property damage liability covering the operation of all automobiles used in connection with performing the contract. Policies covering automobiles operated in the United States shall provide coverage of at least $200,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury and $20,000 per occurrence for property damage. The amount of liability coverage on other policies shall be commensurate with any legal requirements of the locality and sufficient to meet normal and customary claims.

101. Will a builder’s risk policy be required by the GC?

Answer: Builder’s Risk is not required, however awarded contractor should be aware of their responsibilities as detailed in FAR52.236-7.

102. Is there an environmental survey report available for asbestos and lead? There is mention of an asbestos survey under 028200/1.3.1.

Answer: Yes, reports are attached.

103. Is there a geotechnical or soils report available? Particularly in the locations of the auger cast pile foundations.

104. Has the abandoned fuel storage area located at the Leesburg location been assessed for contamination and is there any remediation that is required by the GC? This could be a significant risk if required by the GC.

Answer: No. There will be no interaction/disturbance below existing grade adjacent to abandoned fuel containment structure.

105. Cathodic protection for piping is mentioned under 2200000/3.1.4. Please specify the requirements. Will anodes, a power & rectifier unit, testing, and/or study be required?

Answer: Cathodic protection is only required for buried piping. This will not be required nor any of the noted requirements referenced.

106. Can the superintendent act also as the SSHO and QCM? If not please explain. If not, can they dual hat as either position?

Answer: Yes the superintendent may also act as the SSHO and QCM, but if work is being performed at different sites, each site must have a superintendent present.

107. Based on the specification 013526/1.6.1.3, the SSHO & QCM can have a dual role and the onsite Superintendent must be independent. Are we to assume there will always be two personnel SSHO/QCM and Superintendent on each site location or can these locations be shared with the two project assigned personnel?

Answer: The superintendent may also act as the SSHO and QCM, but if work is being performed at different sites, each site must have a superintendent present.

108. Can the project manager act as the QCM on the project?

Answer: Yes (for the complete project), but must have a superintendent at each project site if working concurrently.

109. Radiant fin tube heating systems are noted in the specifications, but not in the drawings, please clarify.

Answer: Radiant tube heating is not required.

110. If fin tube heat is to be included, are boilers to be replaced as well? Where is the start/stop point?

Answer: Radiant tube heating is not required. There are no existing boilers, only gas fired/electric unit heaters.

111. The unit heaters (UHs) in the small growing zones in bid option #2 may be redundant with the wall mounted units. Can the UH be eliminated in these areas?

Answer: They are not redundant and cannot be eliminated.

112. What knee-walls/slabs need repaired versus replaced? Is it on an as needed basis?

Answer: All CMU knee-walls to be demolished. Slabs are to remain and be repaired as required.

113. What existing site power is available for all greenhouse facilities? 120/240v single phase or 120/208v three phase?

Answer: Horticultural site has 480Y/277V system with dry type transformers for 208Y/120V loads. Leesburg Farm has 240V, 3-Phase, High-leg delta system. Picos Farm has 480Y/277V system with dry type transformers for 208Y/120V loads.

114. Are new benches needed in each growing zone? If so, can you please specify the type?

Answer: Yes, new benches are required. See plans for typical layouts. Sizes are 4’x8’.

Plastic is preferred material but greenhouse manufacturer’s recommended standard will be acceptable

115. Are steel doors acceptable for greenhouse zones?

116. Specifications call for 16mm polycarbonate on Greenhouse roofs, drawing set #3 calls for 16mm acrylic. Please clarify.

Answer: All greenhouses are to have 16mm polycarbonate panels.

117. Specifications call for 8mm polycarbonate on vertical walls, drawing set #3 calls for 16mm polycarbonate on the vertical walls, please clarify.

Answer: All greenhouses are to have 16mm polycarbonate panels.

118. Are all existing electrical conduits to be replaced from breaker panel to equipment locations?

Answer: Yes. All branch circuit conduits should be replaced with new. Only existing panel feeder conduits may be reused where noted.

119. Are any existing in-ground mechanical rough ins being replaced?

120. Is it possible to have another round of RFI’s scheduled in June with an additional site walk?

121. Please confirm whether an existing network connection will remain available to support online functionality of the access…