Solicitation Questions and Answers 04-14-2026.docx

Fort Simcoe Job Corps Center Water System Renovation 12441926R0002 Solicitation RFI’s 4/14/2026

Q: Regarding SCADA system and related components, software, etc. I’m curious if the FS is open to alternative systems, granted they meet the spec, or if what is specified is only what is desired for this project?

A: The Rockwell system was the designated basis of design, alternate products will need to meet/exceed requirements/functionality as applicable to this project, alternate products that are more economical are encouraged, see spec section 406100 2.2 F. “Drawings and specifications are based on Rockwell Automation (Rockwell Factory Talk) as the basis of design. Contractor may submit their bid based on an alternate manufacturer (including Siemens, Schneider Electric, ABB, Mitsubishi Electric, Emerson, Yokogawa Electric, etc.) provided all system functionality is equal to or exceeds that of the basis of design.”

Q: We would like clarification regarding rock excavation exceeding the 1 cubic yard limit. Typically, material of this size is classified as rock excavation and is compensated either as a separate bid item or through a change order. However, the current specifications do not address this condition.

If rock exceeding this limit is encountered, should the contractor classify it as standard excavation, or will it be treated as rock excavation for additional compensation? Please advise on how this situation should be handled, as the project area appeared to contain a significant amount of rock during the job walk.

A: Excavation and backfill do not have a separate line item (standard or otherwise) in the schedule of items, they are to be incorporated into the unit price for water line and service installation.

* Note that open excavation, directional bore, pipe bursting are available options for pipe installations (Drawing Sheet C02). Also, water lines with some exceptions are to follow existing pipe routes drawing sheet (C3.1), which should limit additional rock excavation.

Q: We understand that trench conditions (TC) are required beneath the pipe, and 2-inch minus material is specified above the pipe. The specifications also indicate that native material may be used for backfill if it is screened.

Can you confirm whether screened native material is acceptable for use as backfill in this application?

A: Pipe Bedding (see drawing detail 3/C15 for pipe bedding nominal dimensions) is to conform to WSDOT 9-03.12(3) (included below for convenience). In addition, the WSDOT 9-03-12(3) or “select fill” shall be used for trench zone backfill and soil backfill above the pipe to finish grade (with exceptions for pavement sections that require aggregate base).

Re-use of excavated material is desired/encouraged but is to be evaluated and processed if necessary to conform to the requirements for “select fill” which is specified in spec 310513 2.1A. (2” nominal max rocks, subject to plastic and liquid limits, free from organics, large clumps, debris) Select fill is specified in a number of individual spec sections. Native soil meeting the requirements for “select fill” may be used in any of those locations with that specified designation.

**Also note that the pipe bedding specification may be used for road crossings in lieu of the screened sand shown as bedding in drawing detail 5/C15.

Q: Are all water service locations identified on drawings locatable in the field via valve boxes or other identifiable features? Please verify that the contractor will not have to take invasive measures to find the service locations.

A: Most existing services have an exposed water pipe/valve located in mechanical room or closet inside the building near the exterior foundation. Building access can be coordinated with the center POC to assist in general location of water entrance into the buildings. Some invasive excavation for specific location of new service tie-in points in conjunction with the utility locate requirements specified may be necessary.

Q: The water main going from the reservoir tanks to Well House #1 appears to travel through an abrupt grade change where a vertical bend may be necessary to accommodate the change in topography. Please verify.

A: There is a grade change from the hill the reservoirs are located on to the relatively level main campus area. Pipe grade vertical and horizontal bends shall be made within the limits of the pipe manufacturers installation requirements (if applicable) all bends exceeding the pipe joint offsets allowed shall be made with fittings. See thrust block requirements for bends in the drawings.

Q: Bid Item 008 does not account for curb/gutter replacement. Curb and gutter is typically priced by the lineal foot. Do we assume a thickened edge on the curb side of any sidewalk replacement will suffice?

A: See Coordination with Existing Site Obstructions paragraphs on sheet C02 for minor re-route or reconstruction of minor structures. Payment for curb and gutter will be measured with the sidewalk or pavement if/as applicable it corresponds to on a sf basis. No separate line item payment will be made for curb and gutter. Other site restoration/minor reconstruction will be incidental to the associated pay item (water service, water main, or hydrant install typically).

Q: When flushing chlorinated water from the main once testing is complete, can the water be flushed directly into an open field with a diffuser or does the water need to be containerized and treated prior to release?

A: Spec section 331300 references AWWA C651 which in turn references AWWA C655 for field dechlorination options which are based upon chlorine concentrations and volume, follow AWWA C655 standards and any state specific requirements.

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