Attachment 8 - Questions and Answers for Solicitation 140P3021Q0020 CHOH HT PKG 4_0001.docx

Questions and Answers for Solicitation 140P3021Q0020 CHOH HT PKG 4

1. Question During the site visit and described in the SOW it is apparent that there are many historic, fragile structures including bridges, tunnels and culverts along the tow path. I would like to request clarifying permission to use a grapple saw carrying tree handler on portions of the tow path that do not require crossing these for access. We would only be using this machine on portions of the trail that we can access directly from access points.

The machine specifically is a Merlo Roto 50.30s plus with a woodcracker cs750 grapple saw. This machine weighs 43,900lbs and sits on 2 axles with job site flotation tires, ground pressure (psi) is actually slightly less than that of a 75’ rear mount bucket truck (gvw 33,000). With a FOPS certified cab it drastically limits personal exposure to falling debris while performing tree removals. It also provides impressive control over each piece cut limiting collateral damage to nearby trees.

Answer Due to the wide variety of historical structures, critical infrastructure, and unique conditions associated with CHOH Hazard Tree Packages, non-standard equipment exceeding 33,000lbs GVW can only be approved on a case-by-case basis after award, and only after a thorough route review. All CHOH package sites are different, and the contractor is highly encouraged to review conditions at all sites before submitting a bid on any package. All provisions in the SOW/PWS related to infrastructure protection and traffic management of pedestrians, cyclists, and other towpath users should also be considered when analyzing the suitability of an equipment array. Bidders are highly cautioned against planning assumptions based on the use of equipment that relies on case-by-case approvals.