Solicitation Addendum 1 with RFI Responses USDA-ARS Houma Greenhouse.pdf

7/2/2025

USDA ARS – Houma Sugarcane Research Greenhouse

Solicitation 12405B25R0005 Addendum #1

July 2, 2025

Addendum 1

Title: USDA ARS – Houma Sugarcane Research Greenhouse

The attention of the contractors submitting proposals for the above subject project is called to the following Amendment to the specifications and drawings. The items set forth herein, whether of omission, addition, substitution, or clarifications, are all to be included in and form a part of the proposal submitted.

The number of this Addendum 1 must be entered in the appropriate space on the SF-1442 Form.

REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

Item 1.

Item 2.

Item 3.

The RFIs have been compiled into a single file with responses. See attachment.

The Attendees List for the Site Visit is made available. See attachment.

The Geotechnical Report is provided for reference. See attachment.

SPECIFICATION ITEMS

Item 4. Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES is AMENDED to include the

Submittal Register after page 18. This is provided to assist contractors in planning their submittals. See attachment.

DRAWING ITEMS

Item 5. Sheet EP100. Detail 2 ADDED to clarify the installation for the new access control panel for the new vehicle gate, as located per Sheet C-201. The attached sheet replaces the previously issued sheet in its entirety.

ATTACHMENTS

1. RFIs and Responses – 8 pages

2. Site Visit Attendees List – 6 pages

3. Geotech Report – 45 pages

4. Submittal Register – 38 pages

5. Sheet EP100 – 1 page, 30x42

END OF ADDENDUM 1

Sugarcane Greenhouse Construction

Soliciation # 12405B25R0005

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

1 Superintendent In executing this project, can one superintendent fulfill the supervision, safety, and QAQC roles? Duplicate question. See #6 below.

2 QA/QC Are contractors required to issue a contract specific QA/QC Plan? Yes. It is a QC Plan only. A Contractor Quality Control Plan is required per 01 45 1.5.2.1.

3 Safety Plan Are contractors required to issue a contract specific Safety Plan? Yes. Safety Plan is required per 01 45 1.5.2.1.

4 Taxes Is this project tax exempt?

The Federal Government and associated projects are tax exempt. However, it is the contractor’s responsibility to determine if their company is in compliance with local/ state/ and federal tax laws. The due diligence is on the contractor to ensure the contractor is adhering to all tax laws.

5 Site Visit RFP reads—Site Visit June 11, 2025, 9:00 am CT. Which this date has already passed. Will there be another site visit ?

There will not be another site visit.

6 Superintendent Do the Superintendent, SSHO and QC Manager need to be 3 separate individuals?

The Superintendent can fill all three positions as long as qualified to do so and can handle the workload. See 1.4 and 1.6.1.1. Note that both the Superintent and QC Manager need to be on site at all times when work is being performed, so an alternate is suggested.The SSHO can must be on site at least 3 days a week.

Phasing/Temp

Cooling

Are there any phasing requirements? How many people will be in the building? Are there any temporary heating/cooling requirements?

There are no phasing requirements other than the Options . Construction personnel will be in the building during construction activities. The contractor is to provide temporary heating and/or cooling/ventilation as needed during construction activities. This is the contractor's responsibility.

8 Schedule Can the period of performance be extended after award once the material/equipment lead times are confirmed due to current market conditions for the equipment for this project?

The schedule to construct these greenhouses is 12 months, plus 60 days mobilization.

Mobilization includes ordering long-lead equipment , material, etc. early in order to meet the schedule requirements. The Government is open to extend the Mobilization duration from 60 days to 90 days if the contractor needs this extra time and states why in the proposal. Any deviations discovered during the mobilization period will require a modification and be dependant on government approval. Proposals shall be based on the period of performance specified or with documentation defining why an extended period is required for consideration, based on information available during the proposal period.

9 Soil Boring Are soil boring reports available? If not, it will be assumed that excavation will be clear of rocks and obstructions.

Duplicate question. See # 45 below.

10 Site Visit Please provide the site visit attendee sign in sheet. The Superintendednt position remains at 10 years. Attached.

11 Water Is there a bulk water fill i.e. a hydrant or water source we can pump from for grading operations in close proximity?

Yes. Existing hydrants are shown on Sheets G-100 and C-202. They are not proximate to the project area, thus the provision of a new hydrant as part of the project.

12 Asbestoes Please confirm whether asbestos or lead is present on this project, and if so, provide relevant documentation. There is no asbestos or lead paint on site.

13 Taxes Is this project tax exempt? Duplicate question. See #4 above.

14 Utilities Please confirm the exact locations and elevations of utility points of connection (water, sanitary, storm, gas, power, telecom) for the greenhouse buildings. Are these stubbed within 5' of the proposed structures?

C-202 shows connection points and elevations for in-ground utilities. Utilities sourced from the existing Head House are shown in the Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical drawings.

15 Survey Specification notes require both QL-B and QL-A level surveys per ASCE 38-02. Is this survey work part of the base scope, or will any existing subsurface utility engineering be provided?

Specifications do not reference ASCE 38-02. General Note 3 on Drawing C-101 does require these surveys to be done regarding location of existing utilities. This is part of the Scope of

Work.

16 Storm Drains Several 15"-18" RCP storm lines are shown. Are there minimum slope or velocity requirements for storm systems, and is any underground detention or treatment system required before outfall?

No new 15" or 18" storm lines are proposed (you may be referring to the existing 15" or 18" storm lines). The slope requirements of the new 6" storm lines are shown on the profiles (SD-

1/C-301). No requirements for underground detention or permanent treatment were communicated from LDEQ to the Environmental Engineer.

17 Gas Lines For rooftop gas-fired greenhouse equipment, does the contractor trench and run all new gas lines from the meter to the equipment curb penetration?

There is no rooftop gas-fired equipment; the unit heaters are inside the greenhouse.

Gas piping is shown on Drawings MP101 (served from existing Headhouse building) and

GM120 (Note 17). All piping is overhead.

18 Backflow Is a backflow preventer required on the incoming domestic water service? If so, please provide detail/specification (e.g., reduced pressure zone type).

Domestic water is extended from existing service in the Head House, which already has backflow protection. Backflow preventers are required for temporary services made by the

Contractor, per Spec 01 50 00.

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

19 Fertigation Are fertigation water lines to be treated as potable or non-potable? Is any labeling, separation, or double-check backflow required for cross-connection prevention?

Fertigation lines are non-potable and are labeled thus (NPCW). All water is served from the existing Headhouse which is already separated and protected.

20 Inverts Several roof and trench drain inverts are coordinated with structure. Please confirm all gravity piping invert elevations are acceptable as shown and do not require lift stations.

The design intent is for all drain piping to flow via gravity to existing manholes / piping without need of lift stations. The Design Team will provide updated configuration with modified slopes to resolve the invert elevations later.

21 EW/SS

Are any eye wash or emergency safety stations required in the greenhouses under OSHA or USDA requirements?

Eyewash and Emergency Showers are required and are shown on GP100 (Note 6).

22 Equipment Are evaporative coolers, unit heaters, and other HVAC equipment contractor-furnished, or provided by a specialty greenhouse vendor?

Much of this equipment is specifed in either 13 34 13 and 23 13 01. Many times these sections are provided complete by a greenhouse vendor, but the bidding contractor is responsible for defining scope of their subcontractors.

23 GH Controls

Is the mechanical contractor responsible for installing and integrating controls for greenhouse temperature, humidity, and ventilation systems? Please confirm if the controls integrate to an existing controls sytem. If yes, please provide contact information.

The control system for the greenhouse is specifed in 13 34 14 and is typically provided by the greenhouse contractor, but the bidding contractor is responsible for defining scope of their subcontractors.

24 Gas Piping Are rooftop gas unit heaters hard-piped to the meter by the mechanical contractor? Is flexible gas piping allowed?

There is no rooftop gas-fired equipment; the unit heaters are inside the greenhouse.

Gas piping is shown on Drawings MP101 (served from existing Headhouse building) and

GM120 (Note 17). All piping is overhead.

25 Commissioning Is formal third-party commissioning required for greenhouse HVAC systems, or is a factory startup sufficient?

Formal Commissioning is required per 1.6.5 thru 1.9.

USDA will provide 3rd-Party CxA per Spec 01 91 00.15-1.2.

26 Electr Scope Confirm the electrical scope includes extending feeders from the existing transformer (on concrete slab) to greenhouse panels, including disconnects.

The scope of electrical work is clearly indicated in the drawing package. Multiple feeders will be brought to new panels in the greenhouse from existing infrastructure located in the

Headhouse. The exisitng padmount transformer is to be left existing to remain.

27 Grounding Are we to bond the structural steel of the greenhouse frames to the electrical grounding system? If so, is exothermic welding or mechanical connection preferred?

Yes, per Div 26 exothermic welding or irreversible high compression connections are acceptable.

28 Wiring Confirm that mechanical equipment such as ventilation fans, unit heaters, and irrigation control panels will be powered under Division 26 and require wiring and disconnects.

Yes, as shown on Sheet GE100.

29 EG

Is there a backup generator or critical system that requires emergency power for greenhouse operation (e.g., ventilation failure during a power outage)?

There is a existing backup generator that provides power to the Headhouse. Refer to electrical drawings for existing infrastrucutre and tie-in points.

30 Light Poles Are any exterior light poles or wall packs part of this scope? Please confirm fixture types and switching methods.

No, refer to electrical drawings and specifications for light fixture requirements.

31 Telecom Are fiber or copper telecom backbone cabling between greenhouses and existing headhouse buildings to be installed under this contract? If yes, please identify entry points and telecom room terminations.

Yes. Refer to electrical drawings for telecommunication requirements, and exisiting equipment locations for greenhouse to be tied into.

32 Telecom Are all underground telecom conduits to follow USDA minimum burial and material standards (e.g., 2" PVC

SCH 40 with tracer wire)?

Refer to electrical drawings and specifciations for conduit sizing and requirements.

33 Telecom Is low voltage scope (telecom, controls, access control) to be fully installed by the contractor, or will a government-furnished vendor be responsible for device installation and testing?

All is contractor furnished and contractor installed. USDA will set up building network. USDA procures and installs our own router and switches.Contractor needs to work with the USDA with anything going through the network.

34 Cable Trays For interior pathways within greenhouse corridors, are surface-mounted cable trays allowed, or must telecom be concealed in conduit?

Telecom needs to be installed in conduit as specified for low voltage wiring per 26 13 01 in the greenhouse.

35 Gantry Please provide specs and/or preferred manufacturer for maintenance gantry and transfer trolley.

The maintenance gantry and transfer trolley are part of the greenhouse scope, per Spec 13 34

13-1.4.

36 Gate Access Please provide details for the gate access panel. Detail for new post added to drawing set. See Addendum #1.

37 GH Basis What greenhouse manufacture was the basis of design? Acceptable greenhouse manufcturers are listed in 13 34 13, 2.1.2.

38 Grow Lights What growlight manufacturer was the basis of design?

Multiple greenhouse grow light vendors should be able to meet this spec. Fluence, Arize, Heliospectra, Phillips, and Valoya are all examples of these vendors.

39 Fencing What is the bases of design for the security fence? Security fence is to match the existing fence, as detailed on Sheet C-401.

40 Taxes Is this project tax-exempt? If yes, please issue the Tax Exemption number for bidding purposes. If not, what is the percentage of tax?

Duplicate question. See #4 and #13 above.

41 Pre-bid If a successful bidder was not at the pre bid site walk, do they forfeit any unforeseen conditions? Contract will be governed under FAR. See FAR 52.236-2 Differing Site Conditions.

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

42 Schedule Will Microsoft project be acceptable for project schedule?

Microsoft Project is acceptable for the Greenhouse project scheduling in place of P3. Other requirements of P3 specificied will need to be meshed into MS Project by the contractor in a way acceptable to the Contracting Officer.

43 Procure Will Procore be acceptable for file sharing, for example, submittals, RFI’s, transmittals, etc.? Yes.

44 Laydown Will the USDA please identify where the acceptable location of the laydown yard to store materials and place the jobsite trailer will be?

Contractor Staging Area is shown on Sheet A-100. Use of the area (location of trailers, etc.) is at the discretion of the contractor and as required per Spec 01 50 00.

45 Geotech Will the USDA provide a geotechnical report of the area the project is planned to be built?

Yes. The Geotech Report is attached. Note that it was decided by ARS to not place a temporary surcharge on the construction area due to cost, experience from other buildings already built on site and expected minimal results. The structure was designed to be as rigid as possible to minimize potential differential settlement, and details to mitigate differential settlement from appurtenances such as walkways and equiment pads, have been included in the design documents to minimize any issues caused by settlement.

46 Commisioning The statement of work under the project scope states that commissioning is a requirement, please confirm that the USDA will provide the commissioning scope of work under a separate contract?

Commissioning is included in the contractor's Scope of Work and defined in Specs 01 91 00.15 and 23 08 00. See Question # 25 above.

47 Geotech

Plan page S-000

Structural

General Notes

IV. TIMBER

PILES

Note 7 states “REFER TO THE GEOTECHNICAL REPORT BY TERRACON DATED DEC 8, 2023.”, will the USDA provide this geotechnical report?

Yes. See # 45 above.

48 Geotech

Section 31 00

00 sub section

1.4

SUBMITTALS

(SD-06 Test

Reports)

Calls out a Geotechnical Evaluation Report to be provided as a submittal, however, on drawing S-000 it states that a geotechnical report has already been completed. Will this requirement be removed from the project and the geotechnical report be provided by the USDA?

See # 45 above.

49 Photos

Section 01 30

00 subsection

1.2 Progress

and Completion

Pictures

States that a CD or DVD containing all pictures to date (monthly invoices) with each monthly pay application.

Can this requirement be removed from the project?

No. Photos are required prior to start of construction and monthly throughout the project, per

01 30 1.2. Photos can instead be submitted in electronic format. Photos don't need to be cumulative each month. All remaining requirements of 1.2 remain in place.

50 Mobilization

Section 01 30

00 subsection

1.7 Mobilization

States that the Contractor must mobilize to site within 60 days after contract award. In the event of a limited or administrative notice to proceed to account for equipment lead times, can this requirement be removed?

No. We have a 12 month construction schedule and there is prep work during equipment lead times. See answer # 8 above.

51 Schedule

Section 01 32

01.00 10 subsection

3.2.1 Activity

Cost Loading

States that the schedule must be cost loaded, can this requirement be removed?

No. Schedule must be activity cost loaded per 1.9.1.9.. Method to be determined by contractor if MS Project is utilized.

52 Reviews

Section 01 33

00 subsection

1.10.4 Review

Schedule

Extension

States that in the case of reviewing a variation the USDA is entitled to 14 additional days including the Normal review period. How many calendar days is the Normal review period?

By convention, the normal review period for submitals is typically 14 calendar days.

53 Superintendent

Section 01 45

00 subsection

1.6.2.1 Duties

States that the QC manager can also be the SSHO as well as the site superintendent. Please confirm that the

QC manager (one person) can fulfill all three duties as required at the same time while on site?

Duplicate question. See #6 above.

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

Qualifications states that The QC Manager must be a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or a graduate of construction management, with a minimum of 10 years construction experience as a Project Superintendent, QC Manager, Project Manager, Project Engineer or Construction Manager on similar size and type construction

Contracts which included the major trades that are part of this Contract.

See# 54.a below.

a. Will the USDA remove the requirement that the QC manager must have 10 years experience on similar sized projects with all the same major trades as this project?

The Government will accept 5 years experience for the QC position only.

55 RMS

Section 01 45

00.15 10 subsection 1.2

Contract Administration states that RMS will be used for this project, will the USDA be providing RMS to the contractor for this project?

Remove this requirement. RMS will not be req'd.

56 SSI

Section 01 45

35 subsection

1.3.10

Statement of Special Inspections (SSI) states that a document containing all the required special inspections would be provided or included at the end of this specification 01 45 35, however there is not a document or statement provided

Spec 01 45 35 lists the following categories for Special Inspection: 1.5.5 Concrete; 1.5.6

Masonry; 1.5.7 Soil, Fill Placement, & Load-bearing Requirements; 1.5.8 Deep Foundations.

Steel fabrication inspections noted in 2.1 would be the responsibility of the greenhouse fabricator.

57 Fencing

Section 01 50

00 subsection

2.3

Fencing states that the Contractor is to provide fencing along the construction site, will the USDA please confirm that temp construction fence with wind screen is to be supplied and installed along the entire perimeter of the project?

Yes. Temporary construction fence around the construction perimeter is to be provided by the contractor, per 01 50 2.3. Wind screen not required. Temporary fencing is also requird around any storage areas, per 01 50 3.5.2

58 Electricity

Section 01 50

00 subsection

3.2.3

Electricity states that electricity used will be furnished by the Government, please confirm that power will be provided to the Contractor from the Government at no cost to the contractor?

Confirmed. The Government will provide electricity without charge, per 01 50 3.2.3.

Contractor responsible for all connections

59 Water

Section 01 50

00 subsection

3.2.4 Water

States that Water used will not be furnished by the Government, please confirm that the USDA will supply water to the contractor for construction use on site?

No - Contractor is to provide a meter on the water supply line and all distrubution piping and fittings. The contractor will be billed for water used at local utiolity rate

60 Delays I did not Read section 01. Is there a list of standard weather delays that need to be figured? Yes. Weather days are determined per AACE 84R-13 per 01 32 01.00 10.

61 Temp Power Section 02 41

00 1.3.4 Sizing for temp Electrical Temp power is required. How big and what do we need to feed temporarily. Contractor is responsible for sizing their own temporary feeder(s) and associated equipment.

62 Interior Clean 02 41 00

Section 1.6.1

Vacuum and dust interior work area daily. To what Extent of the existing building does this need to be completed.

Contractor is responsible for cleaning the existing building areas used by the contractor.

63 Site Work 02 41 00 section 3.1.5

States to fill holes and depressions caused by previous physical damage or left as a result of removals. Are there any existing holes or depressions that need to be considered when bidding this project?

This item refers to concrete and masonry. Contractor shall review and document existing conditions and is only responsible for addressing holes or depressions created by demolition work.

64 New Road Drawing G-100 Shows a portion of the asphalt road can be omitted if bid option 3 is completed, can this portion of asphalt road be represented on the drawings?

This is the fire truck turn around. It is shown on site plan G-100 and C-201 and A-100.

65 plumbing Drawing G-101 States that there are no added plumbing fixtures, will the USDA please confirm that there are no added plumbing fixtures?

This is the Code Plan which refers to particular code-required plumbing fixtures such as toilets, lavatories, drinking fountains, and janitor sinks. None of these items are required to be added to the existing building due to this project.

66 C-101 Drawing C-101 Drawing has a line through it from the top lefthand corner to the bottom righthand corner, will the USDA please clarify why?

Line is not present in our files. Disregard the line.

67 Interior Clean Drawing C-101 General note 22 states to leave the site in a clean and spotless condition, will the USDA please define and clarify what the expectation is when using the word or phrase “spotless condition”?

Means removing all evidence of work, including waste, debris, and hazardous materials from the construction site. It is to ensures the area is safe, organized, and ready for the next phase of construction.

68 Conc Pour 03 30 00 section 1.7

States several rates of airflow changes for concrete pours. If the pour is completed outside is there any requirement to confirm air changes?

These requirements apply to interior concrete work only, which may occur in the project depending on contracting schedule, repair work, etc.

69 Fill Drawing C-301

Shows using flowable fill on every detail for backfilling where there is less than 1’ clearance between utilities, will the USDA please clarify the amount of flowable fill and provide a detail of using this material to backfill with?

Refer to Geotech Spec. Quantities of flowable fill will be the responsibility of the Contractor.

70 Hydrants Dwg C-401

Drawing C-401 and many other drawings note the Terrebonne Parish, will the USDA please provide contacts for members of the Parish that will need to be contacted and approve of items such as those mentioned on dwg C-

401 for the final acceptance for operation and maintenance regarding hydrants?

The project was submitted to Reola Lanegrasse, Fire Prevention Chief for the Schriever Fire

District, 1529 West Park Avenue, Schriever, LA 70359, 985-446-8498.

Contractor is responsible for contacting the local authorities for construction permits, utility connection permits, etc.

Section 01 45

00 subsection

1.6.2.2

QC

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

71 Grates Dwg S-100 Shows 3 metal grates to be installed, will the USDA please confirm if there are handrails around these metal grates?

The metal grates are over the 7" shallow trench for the transfer trolley. Handrails are not required.

72 Geotech Drawing S-000

IV. Timber Piles

Note 7. States Refer to the geotechnical report by Terracon Dated Dec 8, 2023. Will the USDA please provide the Geotechnical report?

Yes

73 Grout

74 Grout What are the requirements for grout on this project?

75 Grout Drawing A-501 Shows us details of the masonry units used on this project, will the masonry units be grouted solid? Masonry walls are shown on Sheet A-401 and are grouted full per Note 8.

76 Downspouts Drawing GA110

Shows downspouts being integrated into the posts that connect into a 4.5” drainage pipe, the drawing shows

14 downspouts on the base bid, will this be enough drainage to accommodate the entire square footage of the roof?

The length and number of downspouts is shorter than many venlo greenhouse designs and should be installed as shown. These collect into a 6" header downstream and should be sufficent for the flow.

Shows the column layout plan, however, this does not show what the plan for the column layouts would be if only the base bid is awarded and stops at grid GH-G. a. Will the USDA provide the column plan if only the base bid is awarded?

b. Will the USDA provide the column layout plan for each alternate award?

78 Trenches Drawing GA113 Shows us Utility Trench Details and plan view, will the USDA please provide the Trench Drain Detail? Details on GA113 refer to the trenches identified as Note 2 on Sheet GA113.

79 Shade Drawing GA115 Shows the Shade System Plan, will the USDA please confirm that there are no shade systems in Breeding Area

1 and 2, Quarantine areas 1 and 2, and Quarantine Vest?

Confirmed correct.

80 ADA Are there any ADA requirements to follow on this project? If so, Where?

Yes. Accessible clearances are provided throughout at doors and initial aisles for each compartment.

81 Benches What benches or work tables will be required to be ADA height?

Per Spec 13 34 13, plant benches are adjustable for heights of 14" and 32". The 2-basin sinks are called to be 36" tall per Spec 22 13 01.

82 Gantry Drawing GA114 Dwg contains a section through the maintenance gantry on drawing (1)GA312 however the maintenance gantry is not shown, will the USDA please provide a section detail of the maintenance gantry?

The gantry is provided as part of the greenhouse manufacturer scope, per Spec 13 34 13.

83 Plumbing Drawing P-100

Shows us the plumbing under slab floor plan, however, this does not show us what to do if only the base bid is awarded. Will the USDA please provide an updated drawing showing what is required if only the base bid is awarded?

Underslab plumbing will terminate at the end of the awarded scope. USDA will direct if additional measures (adding valves) will be needed depending on the awarded scope.

84 Plumbing Drawing P-301 Dwg shows us plumbing sections, will the USDA please provide plumbing elevations on each wall of the project?

Coordination of piping and tubing is the contractor's responsibility.

85 Plumbing Drawing P-601 Dwg shows us the added plumbing fixtures, will the USDA please confirm that the existing system is capable of providing adequate pressure/supply to ensure all added plumbing systems and fixtures perform as designed?

The design is based on the capabilities of the existing systems.

86 Ex Panels Drawing EP102

Dwg shows us the Electrical Power Second Floor Plan – Existing, will the USDA please confirm that there is enough room on the existing panels/system to accommodate all of the new / added systems for the complete project?

Confirmed, the spares and spaces shown in the design drawings were confirmed by the engineer during initial site visit.

87 Access What is the bases of design for the access control?

There is no specific basis of design, however the selected system must be able to be integrated into the existing system, which the manufacturer is noted in the response below.

88 FA What is the bases of design for the fire alarm system?

There is no specific basis of design, however the selected system must be able to be integrated into the existing system, which the manufacturer is noted in the response below.

89 Access What is the existing access control system? Lenel

90 FA What is the existing fire alarm system? GE (Edwards) EST 3

91 UL

Specification

Section 07 84

Section 1.5.1 Requires an FM Global Approved installer. This section does not Indicate “or” UL approved.

UFGS Spec language is correct. The "or" at the end of 1.5.1.a connects directly into 1.5.1.b, meaning that the requirements of either 'a' or 'b' can be met.

92 Geotech Is there a geotechnical report that can be provided? Yes. Attached.

93 Geotech Is the contractor required to provide a Geotechnical Consultant?

Yes. Per the Geotech Report, a Geotech Engineer should be present during subgrade preparation.

94 Haze Section 13 – 2.2.4 Cladding system, v. – Please confirm if “Haze” is in reference to light transmission? Haze is in reference to light diffusion/ scatter of the glazing

Columns77

Grout is specified in Spec 03 30 00. Grout will be used at column baseplates (Detail 10, Sheet

S-500) and for the new CMU walls (Note 8, Sheet A-401).

Areas of work for the bid options are indicated. Contractor is responsible for coordinating the scopes of work between base bid and the bid options.

Drawings will not be updated to remove bid options not taken.

Drawing S-000

Drawing GA111

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

95 Doors Section 13 – 2.2.7 Doors – Please confirm that the industry standard ¼” safety glass is acceptable for the upper panel in the greenhouse man doors?

Yes.

96 Relays

SECTION 13 34

14,2.3.1.1

Do the spare outputs and inputs require associated relays and contactors? If so, please advise what type of outputs are req'd?

Yes. We would suggest searching for "spare" in 13 34 14 for all spare capacity requirements including spare breaker spaces, and the requirement to provide configuration of these spares free of charge for the first year.

97 Weather

SECTION 13 34

14, 2.3.2.d Has a weather station been installed on-site in conjunction with the other Titan system?

A weather station is not needed if we are connecting to the existing system

A new, separate weather station is to be provided as part of this project.

98 CO2 Are life safety CO2 alarms needed?

No, there is no CO2 enrichment. This should not be confused with the CO2 sensor in each compartment to monitor for low CO2 levels and ventilation of the compartment.

The following equipment is not on the drawing but listed on the load list. Are these still required?

link 1 (par, co2, vaf, roof shade limit), corridor 1 (par, co2, vaf, roof shade limit), corridor vestibule (par, co2, vaf, roof shade limit), quarantine vestibule (par, roof shade limit), corridor 2 (par, co2,vaf, roof shade limit), corridor 3 (par, co2,vaf, roof shade limit), entomology vestibule (par)

100 Certification

1.5 Submittals

– SD-03

This section makes reference to a manufacturer’s “certification” stating that products and systems comply with requirements. Beyond the typical understanding that we are to follow the drawings and specification in good faith, what is the legal expectation of this wording?

Contractor to provide certifications and qualifications as specified.

101 Samples SD-04 Samples

As an alternative, it is often more beneficial for a client to visit similar greenhouses or the greenhouse manufacture’s show room if there are questions regarding standard materials, products and/or details.

1.4.5 of 13 34 13 provides a list of the samples required for the greenhouse.

102 Shop Dwgs SD-05 Design

Data

Please clarify whether the entire shop drawing package needs to be signed and sealed or just the Structural Drawings and Calculations

It is standard practice to only seal the structural drawings which are produced by outside engineers licensed in the project’s state. The remaining portion of the Shop dwg package will not be sealed.

Drawings and Calculations of the structure, components and cladding of the greenhouse needs to be signed and sealed.

103 O&M SD-10 O&M

The requirements listed for the O&M manual is well beyond what is standard for the industry and more aligns with what might be found for buildings or science labs. Producing this level of detail will significantly increase the bid cost. Please clarify what requirements are specifically needed by the end user.

Typically, we provide O&M manual for each specific piece of equipment contained in the greenhouse. For example, an evaporative cooling wall O&M manual, a shade system O&M, etc. We consolidate the manuals and provide them to the customer.

Agreed as recommended.

133414

Appendix A

Load List, inputs

Load List99

The points list is correct for the sensors reqired. Recent project submittals from Argus have had the PAR, CO2, and Temperature/ Humidity Sensors as independent sensors, each requiring wiring into the compartment. Zone Sensors are centrally located in the compartment. PAR sensors are located on the South side of a Northern Post in the compartment. Limit switches are located with the associated motor. VAF is an independent manual speed control for the VAF Fans, located inside of the door on the wall of each compartment.

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

104 Sustainability

1.6 Sustainable

Design

Requirements

No sustainability submittals, requirements, or certifications are included.

Sustainable documentation submittals are required for many items, identified with an "S" suffix under Submittals.

105 Infiltration 2.1.1 a.

Infiltration Rates are not guaranteed. Target infiltration rates are helpful for setting a goal and aiming to make decisions that will lead to a tighter enclosure, but when specific containment requirements extend beyond standard NGMA

Greenhouses, a specialty containment greenhouse manufacturer would be required

Due to the nature of a greenhouse, with vents and equipment penetrations and other openings, it is not practical to have a wall & roof system tested to achieve an infiltration rating. Each finished space can be tested, and the installer may find ways to improve/reduce the amount of infiltration, but there is no way to guarantee a specific value.

Infiltration Rates are to be tested to the levels specified and to be met to the contractor's best ability, to ensure solid construction.

106 Welding 2.2.2 h.

Welding Certification is not typical to the GH industry. Please verify if this is essential as it will unnecessarily add to the cost.

Certification is required for structural welding, unless alternative justification can be presented in writing to the USDA for their consideration and approval.

107 Mill Rpts 2.2.2. j.

Certified copies of mill reports are typically not kept or submitted. Please verify if this is essential as it will unnecessarily add to the cost.

Yes, the greenhouse manufacturer is responsible to maintain copies of their mill reports.

108 Glass

2.2.4 Cladding

(Roof & Walls)

Glazing:

Is low-iron an essential need? The cost is almost twice the cost as typical clear float glass used for most greenhouses.

Additionally, we have significant concern about the viability of a glass structure with a 150MPH wind requirement.

According to our Glass manufacturer, standard clear glass has a 90% visible transmittance and a 0.86

SHGC(solar heat gain coefficient) where the Ultra

Clear (low iron) has a 91% visible transmittance and a

0.91 SHGC. The difference is

minimal compared to the cost premium unless the crops/research is more important.

Yes, the glass specified needs to be low iron which is a typical high quality greenhouse glass.

The parameters given in the recommendation do not reflect the UV transmission which is substancially different. The greenhosue glazing should be provided by the Greenhouse manufacturer and sized for the loads at the site both in bar spacing, locations, and thickness.

109 Perormance 2.2.6.f. No performance standards are guaranteed. See comments on 2.1.1.a See response to Comment #105.

4’ wide vents on a 10’-6” wide peak are oversized, and not standard. Please verify if standard 1 meter (3’ vents) would be acceptable? Additionally, 4’ vents are standard on a single peak A frame roof.

1m Vents are acceptable (36" vents are not)

Our design has three peaks instead of one which enables considerably more venting than a standard single peak house. # of Peaks and Vents shall be installed per roof plan

111 Screening

2.2.10

Accordion Vent

Screen b

Thrip roof vent screening is not an available option for accordion style roof vent screening. Our vendor in Holland offers a .4x.45mm opening as their smallest option. Would this be acceptable?

At least one supplier offers the specified size of opening. We recongnize that the specified opening is tighter than many greenhouses.

112 Screening

2.2.10

Accordion Vent

Screen: e.

As this item is supplied from Holland, ordering a sample mock-up would be both time consuming and expensive. These systems are very common and can be seen on local greenhouse or on our floor model. Please verify if this is needed and if so, if visiting a local greenhouse/floor model is acceptable

Pictures of a previous installation matching the installed location and an installation manual will be sufficient, but if the installation is bespoke, then a sample of the installation is required.

113 Benches 2.2.21

Benching: a.ii.

Is there a basis of design for the dual height benches? Is having dual heights for the benches a definite requirement or just a desire? The specs call for tables to be dual height adjustable, but the detail on p. 16 does not reflect this capability.

We do not want to have to re-invent if there is a product already developed that the owner specifically wants.

While the spec calls out variable height fixed benches (where shown), none are shown, so this question is not relevant to the project

110 2.2.8 Ridge VentsVents

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

114 Gantry

2.2.27. Roof

Maint. And

Cleaning

Gantry

We would recommend a simplified approach unless this is an important requirement of the owners. Please verify.

Do they really want/need motorized and with a transfer rail system on the gable? Since this is in a hurricane zone, the whole concept is concerning. It also only services the peaks in

A-Block leaving B-Block without a gantry. We would propose considering a manual gantry that would be lifted from peak to peak as needed via a boom lift.

The full specified system needs to be provided. B-Block is small enough to be accessable from boom lifts on the perimeter of the structure.

115 Gantry Drawings Concerns with Roof Gantry – especially the rail transfer system details – This will take a lot of coordination.

This is a standard Venlo greenhouse detail and commercially availabe equipment commonly installed on these greenhouses. It should be provided by the greenhouse manufacturer as part of their package.

116 Quarantine

Concern with Quarantine designations of several zones – Specs do not specifically address containment requirements other than by general infiltration rates which have already been addressed above. Please clarify if there are any specific containment requirements related to these zones.

Screening, and airflow leakage rates have been specified. The general segragation and separation is a large portion of the containment. These are NOT BSL2-P compartments nor subject to USDA-ARS containment guidelines.

117 Downspouts

Concern with not enough down spouts (looks like at one gable only. Please verify if the greenhouse vendor may provide additional downspout locations as required or whether there are any site/plumbing issues that would limit downspouts to certain locations.

The length and number of downspouts is shorter than many venlo greenhouse designs and should be installed as shown.

118 Vent Motors

Design of the roof will take significant coordination with BOAL – some drives are push-pull, some may require a rack and pinion approach that could change the number of roof vent motors listed in the Point and Load List. Also, the exact

Extension height may need to be adjusted to coordinate with both vent drive systems and not conflict with the shade cloth. Is there flexibility allowed to accommodate these points? And secondly, if the extension height needs to be adjusted, what is the desired truss clearance?

Post/gutter height is often shown on the drawings or in the specifications, but in reality, the most important height is typically the clearance under the truss. Currently the post height is shown at 15’-6”.

We would like to confirm what the truss clearance needs to be and that we can adjust the post height accordingly and within reason

The number of vent motors should remain as shown, and ganged vents with angle drives used to provide multiple vents on a single motor (per vent side) if required in locations where truss rail vents are impractical . Gutter height may be increased if necessary to maintain a 12'-6" clear area below the truss.

119 Wind

Given this project is in a 150 mph wind speed zone in hurricane prone Louisianna, we are surprised to see 4mm tempered glass specified for the walls and roof. Has this been specifically approved with the local building inspector and building codes? Will the glazing systems need to be tested to meet any specific hurricane impact or wind pressure tests?

These are questions that greatly impact the design approach. Learning of requirements during the shop drawing submittal phase could have significant consequences.

The specified glazing is a MINIMUM of 4mm. There are standard Venlo glazing systems available for 6.4mm thickness of glass if required for a manufacturer's design. Glazing bar spacing and glazing thickness shall be adjusted to meet the loading requirements as specified in the 13 34 13 specification. Beyond the specified load requirements, greenhouses are exempt from protection of openings (missile tests).

120 Shade

The drawings and Point & Loads List provide a clearest description for which zones require what kind of shade. The shade specification section, however, reads like every zone is to have a horiz. Shade system at the top truss chord using a cable driven truss to truss system. Please verify that the layout on sht GA-115 is to be followed. In addition, GA-411 shows both cable driven and push-pull type shade drives. Please verify that either is acceptable even though the specifications only list cable driven.

The drawings show the correct location of shade systems, and there are compartments without shade systems. There are light spilll curtains on sidewalls only (where shown) and not on the roof. Due to the size of the compartments, only cable drawn roof shade cloth systems should be used. Disregard the details showing push-pull systems.

Are there special inspectors and special inspections required on the project?

EX: Manaufactures facilities, fabricator and on-site welding?

Yes. See response to item # 56 above.121 Inspectors

Drawings vs

Specs

Request for Information (RFI) Questions and ARS Responses

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

No. Key Word Location Question Bidder Recommendation Response

122 Excavation Specs 1.3..1.2

Measurement of excavation will be made by the theoretical quantity determined by survey. Unit measure Cubic yard. Is there a separate CY unit price we will have to provide for excavation work, or should allexcavation be provided lump sum in the appropriate clin item?

Unit Prices are to be provided to establish rates for if/when additional excavation and/or fill is needed. Quantities will be determined based on site conditions as needed.

123 PE Stamp Is it the intent for a professional engineer in the state of Louisiana to stamp the Green House shop drawing structural only?

Yes, so long as "Structure" includes the components and cladding of the greenhouse structure, and loads supported by the structure.

124 Cx Is a sustainability eNotebook and commissioning (CX) required on this project? Yes.

END

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Solicitation No.: 12405825R0005

Project: Sugarcane Greenhouse Construction, Houma, LA

Date: June 11,2025

Time: 9

Facilitator: Dr. Paul White

Location: Farm 501 Bull Run Road, Schriever, LA

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Date: June 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM (CST)

Facilitator: Dr. PaulWhite

Location: Farm 501 Bull Run Road Schriever LA

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Project: Su arcane Greenhouse Construction, Houma, LA

Date: June 11, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM (GST)

Facilitator: Dr. Paul White

Location: Farm 501 Bull Run Road Schriever LA

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Date: June 11,2025

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Facilitator: Dr. Paul White

Location: Farm 501 BullRun Road, Schriever, LA ma, LA

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Report Cover Page

Sugarcane Greenhouse

Design Update Geotechnical Engineering Report

December 8, 2023 | Terracon Project No. ET225166

Prepared for:

Merrick & Company

2480 West 26th Ave., BB225

Denver, Colorado 80211

524 Elmwood Park Blvd., Suite 170

New Orleans, LA 70119

P (504) 818-3638

Terracon.com

Facilities | Environmental | Geotechnical | Materials

Report Cover Letter to Sign

December 8, 2023

Merrick & Company

2480 West 26th Ave., BB225

Denver, Colorado 80211

Attn: Mr. Jon DeLay

P: 303 353 3659

E: Jon.Delay@merrick.com

Re: Geotechnical Engineering Report

Sugarcane Greenhouse Design Update

501 Bull Run Road

Schriever, Louisiana

Terracon Project No. ET225166

Dear Mr. DeLay:

We have completed the scope of Geotechnical Engineering services for the above referenced project in general accordance with Terracon Proposal No. PET225166 dated

January 5, 2023. This report presents the findings of the subsurface exploration and provides geotechnical recommendations concerning earthwork and the design and construction of deep foundations and pavements for the proposed project based on the information provided to us at the time of writing. Terracon should be contacted to evaluate the recommendations provided in this report if changes to the proposed building location, fill heights, structural loadings, etc., are made or the assumptions provided in this report become invalid. We appreciate the opportunity to be of service to you on this project. If you have any questions concerning this report or if we may be of further service, please contact us.

Sincerely, Terracon

Anjelica Moran, EI Lynne Roussel, PE

Project Manager Office Manager

Reviewed by: Albert Y. Ayenu-Prah, Jr, PhD, PE

Geotechnical Engineering Report

Sugarcane Greenhouse Design Update | Schriever, Louisiana

December 8, 2023 | Terracon Project No. ET225166

Facilities | Environmental | Geotechnical | Materials i

Table of Contents Introduction

Project Description

Site Conditions

Geotechnical Characterization

General Subsurface Geology

Subsurface Profile

Groundwater Conditions

Seismic Site Class

Geotechnical Overview

Earthwork

Site Preparation

Subgrade Preparation

Fill Material Types

Fill Placement and Compaction Requirements

Utility Trench Backfill

Grading and Drainage

Earthwork Construction Considerations

Construction Observation and Testing

Deep Foundations

Driven Timber Pile � Axial Capacities

Structural Floor Slabs

Pavements

General Pavement Comments

Pavement Design Parameters

Pavement Section Thicknesses

Pavement Drainage

Pavement Maintenance

General Comments

Figures ¥ GeoModel

Attachments

Exploration and Testing…