B09_Amd_0002_BITH_Bridge_Repair_Project_Bidder_questions_0002.pdf

BITH Bridge Repair Project Bidder questions November 27, 2023

• Both Kirby and Turkey Bridges were accessed by remote roads. The road that accesses the Turkey Bridge area will need to be accessed using 4-wheel drive vehicle. From there on both bridges, we hiked down a small access road and trail to arrive at the bridge. Either small SUVS, UTV’s, or other motorized equipment will be mandatory to use in gaining access and moving in equipment. Is this acceptable to the NPS?

Kirby Bridge requires access over existing trails, boardwalks, and bridges. As stated in the documents, the max loading for the bridges are 5,000 lbs and the width is also restricted to smaller vehicles. Smaller UTVs and SUVs will be acceptable. The use of 4x4 vehicles is acceptable for the Turkey Bridge access.

• On many other NPS projects, we have a Superintendent that also acts as the SSHO and QCM for the work. As required in the specs a QC is brought in by manufacture on major items like the helical piles. However, may we have our superintendent dual hat positions in order to reduce yours and our cost?

The Superintendent may also double up as the safety manager. The QCM will need to be a separate individual.

• Both access roads and trails had branches and fallen trees on them. Will the park be sure the roads and access trails are clear before work begins? If not, can we clear items in the way?

The majority of the clearing for construction access will be the responsibility of the contractor. All areas should be staked for approval prior to any clearing/removals.

• Where would you like us to stage material? I did not see that addressed in the plans. Where we parked the vehicles near turkey bridge, an area that seems suitable for staging existed. May we stage material there?

That area is a likely location. Staging areas will need to be approved prior to any material staging or construction.

• The due date for this bid is Monday the 27th. That is the Monday after Thanksgiving. Is it possible to extend this bid since we will not be able to get subcontractors bids in over the Thanksgiving weekend? Maybe we could push just long enough that we can get our subs bids and then in turn add them to our bid.

This has been extended to Dec 6th.

• Do you have any information you can share that shows the average water level of the rivers from month to month? If there is typically a high-water mark time of year, we will want to avoid that time.

The water level of the rivers varies based on rainfall events. Generally, the levels are low at this time of year and through the early Spring. Hurricane season starts in June and can have an effect of the water levels. All efforts should be taken to complete the in-stream and near stream work while the water levels are low.

• Over the 6-month period of performance, is it anticipated that the river will be running high? (At the time of the site visit, it was fairly low.)

The water level of the rivers varies based on rainfall events. Generally, the levels are low at this time of year and through the early Spring. Hurricane season starts in June and can have an effect of the water levels. All efforts should be taken to complete the in-stream and near stream work while the water levels are low.

OTHER ITEMS TO NOTE

• Sheet S3 details the access to both bridge locations. They are weight and width restricted.

• An accurate schedule is an important part of the bid package to be able to coordinate the access through the private lumber company property.

• Note #1 on sheet S10 indicates the helical pier requirements for final design by the helical pier supplier. Prior approval is necessary before any construction.