127EAX26R0005 Santa Fe Vault Toilet QA2.docx

127EAX26R0005 Santa Fe Vault Toilet Replacement Q&A #2

1. Can the due date for the proposal be extended to allow for more time to put together a complete bid?

A: No.

2. Is camping allowed onsite for contractors?

A: On site Camping with a Recreation Vehicle will need to be coordinated with the District Ranger but we anticipate that this will be permitted. Utility hookups will not be provided.

3. What temporary utilities are available for use?

A: At this time there are no temporary utilities that will be available.

4. Are there specific dates that the Canyon is closed?

A: Seasonal closures will not apply. The Forest has agreed to completely close the sites during construction.

5. The specs and drawings reference a Mora-San Miguel Electric for the electrical work. Can contact information be provided?

A: Les Montoya, General Manager Mora San Miguel Electric Coop. Main line: 575-383-4270, Direct line: 575-383-4276, Cell: 505-429-4463

6. In the drawings it states to coordinate with Mora-San Miguel to trench and Install underground electric. Are we required to use them or can we use a different electrical contractor?

A: The contractor is not restricted to Mora San Miguel Coop for secondary lines; however all of these sites fall within the footprint that Mora San Miguel Coop serves, therefore any/all work associated with primary electric lines (& meters) must be coordinated through Mora San Miguel.

7. The Will the campsites remain open during construction?

A: No

8. Can we work at multiple sites at the same time or do we have to complete each one in separate phases?

A: The contractor reserves the right to schedule and implement the improvements as best seen fit. The Forest is not requiring phasing. A clear schedule shall be submitted to the COR should the contractor elect to work multiple sites at once.

9. The plans indicate a Clearing Limit of 10 feet. We believe that additional space will be necessary for equipment access. A semi for delivery or a crane to position the toilets may need as much as 30-40 feet clearance. Would you consider Technical Proposals based on the increased clearance?

A: 10 foot clearing limit is standard to preserve natural resources and historic structures throughout Forest Service sites, however the forest does understand that large equipment is necessary to achieve the desired product. Bids will not be rejected solely due to an inability to execute the contract within the specified 10-foot clearing limit.

10. Regarding site access; The trucks required to deliver precast toilets are large and heavy, ranging from 75'-100' long, and weighing up to 150,000 lbs. Is it possible that the delivery driver could encounter any of the following on the route to the job site or during installation - Load limit bridges, seasonal road restrictions, switchback roads, low clearance, steep grade, rough terrain, trees or stumps, power lines, signs, fences

A: Access roads and campground are tight in this area and many of the conditions listed above exist, however a site visit was held on the 3rd of December which provided any/all interested parties with the opportunity to assist in making decisions pertaining to the question.

11. Additionally, these trucks require a 32’ wide, firm surface to make a 90-degree turn. Some of the trailers only have 6 to 8 inches of ground clearance so even road camber can cause a problem. These trucks need a 14’ wide by 15’ tall clear path for travel and even wider clearance at corners. Will the proposed sites at Field Tract, Links Track and Jack's Creek Campgrounds accommodate this scenario? Please advise.

A: Access roads and campground are tight in this area and many of the conditions listed above exist, however a site visit was held on the 3rd of December which provided any/all interested parties with the opportunity to assist in making decisions pertaining to the question.

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

A: The Forest will not direct the awarded contract as to how the manage the project. The forest will require that the contractor provide a single POC that the COR can communicate with to avoid miscommunication given the multiple areas and type of work being performed.

13. 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?

A: The granting of extensions are at the discretion of the CO via request from the contractor. Justification for the request would be needed and COR would need to be in concurrence.

14. Please provide the site visit attendee sign in sheet.

A: Sign in sheets will not be provided.

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

A: Boulders or Plate Rock: The Forest Service does not anticipate boulders or plate rock larger than the anticipated extent of excavation for a vault toilet. If this condition is encountered and its removal is deemed critical for contract work, contractor shall remove and replace with suitable backfill material per COR guidance. This situation would be treated as an unforeseen condition and quantified appropriately so that it can be mitigated.

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

A: Contractors are expected to provide their own water for any/all uses.

17. Please confirm whether asbestos or lead is present on this project, and if so, provide the relevant documentation.

A: Asbestos and Lead Base Paint testing reports have been provided as a part of the solicitation.

18. Does this project require phasing?

A: No

19. Is this project tax exempt?

A: No

20. When do you anticipate on site work starting?

A: An award is expected to be made in the winter 2025/26. Commencement of on-site work is hinged on the issuance of the NTP. The issuance of NTP is at the discretion of the CO via request from the Contractor. Once NTP is granted Contractor has 5 days to start Work and 180 days to Complete Project.

21. Are third party inspections required?

A: Not for the Vault Toilets

22. Is permitting required?

A: Not for the Vault Toilets

23. Are partitioning, dust containment, and/or negative air machines required for this project?

A: No

24. Is any landscaping restoration required for this project? For example; topsoil, seeding, and fertilizer.

A: No, unless stated otherwise in contract documents and/or specifications.

25. Please provide staking data points for the project.

A: This is not something the Forest Service has for this contract. The contractor is expected to coordinate with COR for final location and orientation of all new toilets.