18-General Notices, Notes and Information.pdf

Preparer’s Certification for

Specifications, Special Specifications, Special Provisions, Estimate and Specification Data

Special Note:

The following items developed per the published Construction Drawings have been verified and included in the Purchasing Department’s Bid Specification Package which can be located at https://harriscountytx.bonfirehub.com/portal/. The items include:

• Pricing/Delivery Information

• Scope of Work

• Special Provision to Standard Specifications

• Special Specifications

• Supplement to General Requirements

• Contract Time

FOR:

ON-CALL SIDEWALK INSTALLATION AND REPAIR

PRECINCT 4 – 2025

UPIN 25104MF3T401

FO T EE XTA AT SS

MOHAMED SAYED

142032

7/16/2025 https://harriscountytx.bonfirehub.com/portal/

SCOPE OF WORK

This On-Call Term Contract for Concrete Sidewalk and related items in Harris County Precinct 4 , includes, but is not limited to, concrete sidewalks, concrete pavement, traffic striping / markings, and any related work. Traffic control shall be provided during all phases of construction and conform to the Texas Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD). All construction shall be in accordance with the drawings, the specifications, and the TMUTCD. Pedestrian Facilities shall meet Texas Accessibility Standards.

In general, the scope of work at each location may include the following items:

• Demolition and disposal of existing storm sidewalk, curbs, driveways, and other roadway surface items.

• Fine grading, disposal of spoil and unsuitable materials, importation of clean fill material.

• Construction of sidewalk, concrete pavement, curbs, driveway, and/or ADA ramps.

• Installation of proposed, or repairs to existing, storm sewer trunks, laterals, manholes, and inlets.

• Backfill and restoration of disturbed areas.

• Traffic control during construction.

• Replacement or relocation of traffic signal detector loops damaged or removed through construction activities.

• Road pavement marking and signs.

• Protection or relocation of trees impacted by construction activities.

The term of the contract shall be 12 months or when the contract expenditure is met, with the option for up to four (4) renewals at the discretion of Harris County.

During the project term, the HCED-CPD will notify the Contractor, at various times, of locations where work within the above noted Precinct and/or Precinct maintenance zone is to be completed.

The estimated bid quantities provided are contingent and only used only to evaluate bidder submissions. After the award, a Purchase Order will be issued based upon the Precinct’s available budget for this work. The Contractor shall be paid based upon actual accepted work completed, at the unit price included within the bid. The Contractor shall not be entitled to any additional payment due to variations between the bid and actual quantities.

CONSTRUCTION NOTES

I. GENERAL

1. At the pre-construction meeting, special circumstances will be discussed and various site locations will be provided to the Contractor. The Engineer will notify the Contractor about additional sites on an on-call basis. The assignment of each job location shall be coordinated with the Engineer. Construction time begins as agreed upon at the pre-construction meeting.

2. The Contractor shall issue an official notification to the County a minimum of 24-hours prior to commencing on-site work. The Contractor should call 713-274- 3605 in order to obtain the e-mail addresses of both the Construction Project Engineer and Chief Inspector.

3. The Contractor shall maintain good communication with the job inspector throughout all phases of the work. No field office or rest room is required for this project (see the Supplement to Harris County General Conditions).

4. Contractor shall notify all property owners a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours prior to blockage of driveways or entering of utility easements. The Contractor shall give written notifications to the neighboring residents of the anticipated work schedule, including the Contractor’s name, contact person and 24-hour phone number. Notice shall be given at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to beginning the work at the particular site.

5. Contractor shall be responsible for providing required security to protect his own property, equipment and work in progress. Orange barricade fencing shall be used to restrict public access to work and equipment.

6. If additional work items are determined, which do not have associated bid items, the Contractor shall inform Harris County in writing along with their estimated cost. Contractor shall not proceed with additional work items unless so authorized. Such items will be incorporated in a Change of Contract.

7. The Contractor shall not store materials or equipment on the roadway or right-of-way. Arrangements to provide a lay down area with adjacent property owners shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. Proposed lay down and access areas must be submitted and approved in writing before proceeding.

8. All work shall be done in accordance with applicable local, state, and/or Federal laws and regulations. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of water necessary to perform the work.

9. To expedite the submittal process, in each submittal the Contractor should refer to the bid item number, specification item number, and bid item description from the bid sheets. Otherwise the submittal will not be accepted.

10. The Contractor staging area will be determined by the Contractor prior to start of construction and approved by the Engineer.

11. Removing and relocating roadway signs, mailboxes, and traffic signs shall be considered incidental to the bid item for full depth repair-replacement of concrete pavement.

12. The condition of the road and/or right-of-way, upon completion of the job shall be as good as or better than prior to starting work.

13. Contractor is responsible for cleaning of streets caused by associated construction at close of each workday. Stage I or II inlet protection shall be installed to provide storm water pollution prevention.

14. Brooming and/or cleaning-up of the roadway shall be incidental to the project.

15. Paved surfaces shall be protected from damage by tracked equipment.

16. Concrete collars shall be constructed around pipe joints as necessary.

17. Original drawings for some existing facilities may be available. The Contractor may request a copy of any available drawings from Harris County.

II. PEDESTRIAN FACILITIES

1. The Contractor shall prepare and submit the construction cost estimate and the project schedule for each jobsite.

2. Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) plan review, filing with the Texas Department of Licensing Standards and Regulation (TDLR), and TAS inspection are required for all projects consisting of pedestrian facilities and related work equal to or exceeding $50,000. For qualifying projects Harris County will provide plans that have been reviewed & filed and will coordinate an inspection after construction is complete. The Contractor is required to make themselves familiar with current Texas Accessibility Standards, as outlined by the TDLR.

3. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to verify that the minimum dimensions, slopes, and cross slopes meet these requirements, while in the presence of the Harris County Inspector. Harris County reserves the right to inspect and determine whether the work meets these requirements.

4. The Contractor shall provide an electronic level, (e.g. MD Smart-tools 4-foot Electronic Level manufactured by Macklanburg-Duncan or equal), and demonstrate to the Harris County Inspector the slopes and cross slopes of the proposed work. Should the Contractor determine that the proposed work cannot meet these requirements, they shall notify Harris County in writing. Modifications shall be made as directed by the Engineer including the issuance of drawings, if required.

5. If after TAS inspection, any correction is required, the Contractor is responsible to provide all corrective measures without additional pay.

III. PAVEMENT

1. Removing and disposing of concrete pavement, concrete curbs, concrete driveways, and sidewalks, shall be considered incidental to the bid item for repair/replacement of the same type of concrete structure. Expansion joints, dowels, and the installation are incidental to the work.

2. Saw cut existing curbs, pavement, and sidewalks in association with the construction of proposed curb ramps and accessible routes as shown on the drawings. Saw cutting is incidental to the project.

3. Special care shall be used by the Contractor to minimize over excavation of subgrade below the proposed 6” thick base material. This shall be done by the Contractor establishing a uniform grade line to the satisfaction of the Engineer, prior to excavation.

4. The bid item for cement stabilized sand is to be used to fill existing cavities or voids below the proposed 6” thick base material, which may have been created by leaking sewer pipe or other subgrade failures. This bid item is to be used for repair locations approved by the Engineer.

5. Limits of work for proposed driveways and sidewalks shall be as needed to comply with slope requirements. Proposed driveway, sidewalk, curb, gutter line and grade shall match existing street. Curb ramps shall be constructed so that existing roadway drainage is not impeded and water does not pond for more than twenty-four (24) hours.

6. When medians are to be adjusted, the Contractor shall match or exceed existing depth of existing concrete pavement (minimum 7” thick). Dowels required for tying proposed pavement to existing pavement are incidental to the work.

7. All medians that are less than or equal to 30 feet in width shall have the median noses painted. All other medians that are greater than 30 feet in width shall not have the median noses painted, unless there is existing paint on the median nose, in which case the existing paint will be re-painted.

8. On a two-lane road, no single concrete repair area shall exceed 85 linear feet of one lane.

IV. PAVEMENT MARKING & STRIPING

1. Removal of existing striping shall be in accordance to Specification Item 672. No burning shall be allowed on either asphalt or concrete pavement. Other alternate methods of removal shall be considered on its individual merits and must be approved by the Engineer.

2. The existing 4" wide dashed guide stripes for dual turn lanes shall be removed and then replaced as existing.

3. The Contractor shall stripe all existing striping and any necessary striping for upgrading by methods as described herein the notes, the attached drawings and specifications, and in compliance with the current Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (TMUTCD).

4. Type II pavement markings or Paint applied as sealers shall be incidental to Type I -Thermoplastic bid items.

5. All existing stop bars shall be replaced at the original locations, or as directed by the County’s Traffic Engineer.

V. TRAFFIC CONTROL & TRAFFIC SIGNAL

1. The contractor shall provide traffic control during the performance of the work.

All traffic control devices shall be in conformance with the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, (TMUTCD). Workers shall wear reflective fluorescent vests approved for use in work zones when working within the roadway right-of-way. Payment for flaggers and traffic control devices shall be incidental to the cost of Traffic Control Plan. On major thoroughfares (as determined by Harris County), no lanes shall be blocked during the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

2. All work shall be performed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Lanes may only be closed between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Traffic Control shall be phased so that at least one lane is open to traffic at all times.

3. The speed limit in construction areas shall be a minimum of 10 mph less than the posted speed limit.

4. Providing temporary stop signs during construction, if required, is incidental to the pay item for traffic control.

5. The Contractor shall notify Harris County of locations where stop signs and street signs are in conflict with the proposed work. The signs shall be relocated in accordance with the TMUTCD and as directed by the Engineer.

6. Contractor shall furnish object markers (Texas MUTCD OM-3R/L) at the beginning of guardrails where no object makers currently exist.

VI. UTILITY

1. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to contact the various utility companies and have their underground and aerial systems located.

2. Utility boxes shall be adjusted to match the proposed paving grade. Any work related to waterlines, electrical lines, or telephone lines are not part of this contract. All adjustments shall be performed as required and as directed by the Engineer.

3. Contractor shall ensure that the work will not conflict with existing utilities.

4. There exists the possibility that other private utilities such as sprinklers, decorative lighting, etc. may be present and conflict with the proposed construction. In addition, there may be landscaping or decorative features that may need to be relocated to perform the work. The Contractor shall notify Harris County regarding any conflict with these facilities. The Contractor is responsible for replacing these facilities, to the original condition or better, at no extra cost to the County if damaged due to the Contractor’s construction activities.

May 2019

GENERAL NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

In accordance with House Bill 1059, a minimum of 25% of the work to be performed on this project shall be performed by the Bidder.

Special Notice: By law, the original price on firm fixed price contracts may not be increased by more than 25%. The original price may not be decreased by 18% or more without the consent of the contractor. Please monitor additions to your contract -additions in excess of 25% will not be paid under any circumstances.

On public works projects, all contractors shall supply a list of all suppliers and subcontractors with addresses and phone numbers, prior to work commencing.

At the time of the scheduled preconstruction meeting, the successful bidder shall supply to the County a list of representatives signed by an Officer of the Company who are authorized to sign official documents, i.e., Purchase Orders, Change Orders, Final Estimates, etc.

In determining who is a responsible bidder, Harris County may take into account the past performance of the bidder on Harris County projects. Commissioners Court adopted a written definition and criteria for determining the performance of a contractor which may be considered in determining the responsibility of a bidder.

Harris County is using an internet-based Construction Program Management Software, e-Builder to maintain consistent administrative and technical control for its projects throughout the County. The Contractor is required to use e-Builder on this project in accordance with procedures provided by the County.

At no cost to the Contractor, the County will provide system login account(s) and provide training for Contractor personnel. The Contractor must update e-Builder with any new or changed information within 24 hours of that information becoming known to Contractor. The Contractor must have access to a computer with internet access and a scanner to use eBuilder.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

ON STORM WATER QUALITY AND

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

In addition to the regulatory requirements stated in the General Conditions, the Contractor shall recognize and comply with the following:

SECTION 1. STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLANS

A. COVERAGE

Coverage under the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES)

General Permit TXR150000 for storm water discharges associated with construction activities is required for a project that disturbs 1 acre or greater (or is a part of a larger common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or greater). Coverage requires the preparation, implementation, inspection, and maintenance of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), in accordance with the TPDES General Permit.

B. PROJECT CLASSIFICATION

This project is classified as one of three categories listed below. The

Contractor shall be responsible for the storm water quality items, accordingly.

1. “Construction Sites That Do Not Require TPDES General Permit

Coverage” The project disturbs less than 1 acre (and is not part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or more); therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is not required. However, the Contractor shall implement good housekeeping measures to minimize the potential for pollutants, associated with the construction activities, to enter the storm sewer system. Item 725, “General Source Controls”, shall be implemented by the Contractor, as well as any other erosion, sedimentation, and pollution controls shown in the plans and project manual.

or

2. “Small Construction Sites”

The project disturbs 1 acre or more, but less than 5 acres, (or is part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or more);

therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor shall implement, inspect, and maintain the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan shown in the plans and project manual.

Certification of a TCEQ Small Construction Site Notice (CSN) in accordance with Part II.E.2 of the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor, as a primary operator, as defined by TPDES General Permit, shall certify one Construction Site Notice (CSN) and provide this to Harris County at the time that the contract is awarded. Harris County (owner), as primary operator, as defined by TPDES General Permit, shall certify a second Construction Site Notice (CSN) at the time the contract is awarded. After the project is awarded, Harris County shall provide copies of the two certified Construction Site Notices (CSN) to the Contractor, and send copies to the local storm sewer operator for notification purposes. Prior to commencing construction activities, the Contractor shall laminate and post the notices on the project site in a location where they are readily available for public viewing. The Contractor shall maintain the posted notices until after completion of the construction activities and final stabilization of the project site as defined by the TPDES General Permit. When the project is completed and stabilization is achieved, as defined by the TPDES General Permit, then the Contractor shall note the date that the Small Construction Site Notice was removed from the project site. A copy of the completed Small Construction Site Notice shall be provided to the Engineer with the SWPPP records. The County shall then notify the local storm sewer operator that storm water associated with construction activities is no longer being discharged from the site.

3. “Large Construction Sites”

The project disturbs 5 acres or greater (or is part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 5 acres or more); therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor shall implement, inspect, and maintain the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan shown in the plans and project manual. Certification of a Notice of Intent (NOI) in accordance with Part II.E.3 of the TPDES General Permit is required and shall be completed in accordance with Harris County Specification Item Number 700. The Contractor shall not commence with any earth disturbing activities on the project site until:

• at least seven (7) days after submittal of the NOI (Harris County & Contractors) via U.S. Postal Service, or if Utilizing electronic submittal, prior to commencing construction activities,

• copies of signed NOI’s are submitted to any municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) receiving discharge, at least seven (7) days prior to commencing construction activities. Contractor shall list in the SWPPP the names and addresses of all MS4 operators receiving a copy.

• copies of the Certified NOI’s are posted in a publicly accessible location (copies shall be laminated or placed in weather resistant display case),

• and copies (Harris County & Primary Contractors) of construction site notice for large sites (CSN) are posted in a publicly accessible location. After construction activities are complete and final stabilization is achieved (as defined by the TPDES General Permit), the Contractor shall certify one Notice of Termination (NOT) form and provide it to Harris County. Harris County shall certify a second NOT form. Harris County shall submit the two NOTs to the TCEQ and the local storm sewer system operator. After the NOTs have been submitted to the TCEQ, then the Contractor shall remove all temporary SWPPP controls, cease SWPPP inspections, and deliver copies of all SWPPP records to the Engineer who shall archive them for a minimum of three years. The final payment to the Contractor may be held until all SWPPP records are received by the Engineer.

SECTION 2. STORM WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLANS

A. COVERAGE

If this project meets the definition of “new development” or “significant redevelopment” as defined in the Harris County regulations or City of Houston ordinance on storm water quality and the project is not “grandfathered” or “exempt” as defined by the regulation or ordinance, then a Storm Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) is required for the project, as shown in the construction plans.

B. CLASSIFICATION

This project is classified as one of three categories listed below. The Contractor shall be responsible for the storm water quality items, accordingly.

1. “SWQ Permit Within Unincorporated Harris County”

If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan with permanent storm water quality controls is shown in the construction plans and the project is located in unincorporated Harris County, then a Storm Water Quality Management Plan is required prior to the start of construction. Prior to the start of construction, the Engineer shall submit the plans and Written Storm Water Quality Management Plan to the Harris County Permits Group and obtain the necessary signatures acknowledging acceptance of the Storm Water Quality Management Plan. The Contractor shall construct the SWQMP structural controls in accordance with the construction plans, and maintain the SWQMP structural controls until completion of the project and until the Engineer can certify that the SWQMP structural controls are constructed in accordance with the plans.

2. “SWQ Permit Within City of Houston” If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan with permanent storm water quality controls is shown in the construction plans and the project is located in the jurisdiction of the City of Houston, then a Storm Water Quality Management Permit is required prior to the start of construction.

Prior to the start of construction, the Engineer shall submit to the City of Houston the construction plans, the City of Houston Storm Water Quality Management Plan Application for Permit, and all other related documents shown on the permit application and obtain the Storm Water Quality Management Permit. Prior to the start of construction, the Contractor shall post a performance bond to the City of Houston for the construction of the storm water quality structural controls. The Contractor shall post a copy of the issued permit on the project site, construct the SWQMP structural controls in accordance with the construction plans, and maintain the SWQMP structural controls until completion of the project and until the Engineer can certify that the SWQMP structural controls are constructed in accordance with the plans.

The Engineer shall submit the Storm Water Quality Permit As-built Certificate to the City of Houston and Harris County shall begin implementation of the SWQMP.

3. “Grandfathered or Exempt from SWQ Permit” or “Storm Water Quality

Bank” If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan, or permanent storm water quality feature, is not shown in the construction plans, then a Storm Water Quality Management Permit is not required prior to the start of construction because it is grandfathered, exempt, or has provided storm water quality measures through the Storm Water Quality Bank.

SECTION 3. OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

A. BIOLOGICAL ISSUES

In accordance with requirements under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, if in the course of construction, a bird rookery, an identified special migratory bird habitat, or a nesting site is discovered on the project site, then the Contractor shall cease work in the area and immediately notify the Engineer.

In accordance with the Federal Endangered Species Act and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, if a biological mitigation plan for specially protected flora and fauna species has been provided within the construction plans, then the Contractor shall comply with all requirements noted within the plan.

B. WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES INCLUDING ADJACENT WETLANDS

In accordance with Section 404 and Section 401 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands shall not be impacted by the Contractor unless a Department of the Army Permit has been obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the project.

If Harris County has obtained a Department of the Army Permit for this project, a copy of the permit is provided in the project manual. The Contractor shall comply with all requirements of the Department of the Army Permit. The Contractor shall not impact any waters of the United States and adjacent wetlands greater than the area and volume shown in the permit. If the Contractor impacts waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands on the project site that exceeds the area and volume shown in the permit, then the Contractor shall be responsible for any violations that may be issued by the regulatory agencies. If the Contractor deems it necessary to impact waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands that exceed the permit, then the Contractor must first notify the Engineer and the Engineer may obtain the necessary regulatory clearances prior to allowing the additional impacts to occur.

During construction of the project, if the Contractor uses off-site areas (not owned by Harris County) for placement of borrow material, disposal of construction debris, staging of construction materials, usage as a field office, or other types of construction related activities, then the Contractor shall be solely responsible for obtaining all environmental permits for the off-site activity, as well as providing all environmental controls and compensatory mitigation requested by the permitting agency. If a regulatory violation occurs as a result of this off-site activity, then the Contractor shall be solely responsible for this violation.

C. STATE OWNED SUBMERGED LANDS

The Contractor shall not impact submerged lands regulated under the authority of the Texas General Land Office, or other local agency, without an easement agreement. If an easement agreement is necessary for the construction activities, then the easement agreement shall be obtained by Harris County.

D. CULTURAL RESOURCES

In accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act and the Antiquities Code of Texas, the Contractor shall not remove or disturb, or cause or permit to be removed or disturbed, any historical, archeological, architectural, or other cultural artifacts, relics, vestiges, remains, or objects of antiquity from the project site. In the event that such items are discovered on the project during construction activities, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Engineer. The site and the potentially significant material shall be protected by the Contractor from further disturbance until a professional examination of them can be made and/or until clearance to proceed with construction has been provided by the Engineer.

E. HAZARDOUS AND PETROLEUM SUBSTANCES

If during the course of construction, the Contractor discovers hazardous or petroleum substances or wastes on the project site, then the Contractor shall immediately cease work in the area and remove all personnel from the area. The contractor shall temporarily close the area to the public, as well; temporary fencing or caution tape shall be installed around the area. The Contractor shall notify the Engineer immediately. Work in the area shall not be permitted until the Engineer has determined that safety and environmental issues have been properly addressed.

NOTICE OF SPECIFICATIONS

For the construction of this project, the Contractor shall use the attached Special Provisions, Special Specifications, and Harris County Engineering Department (HCED) Specifications Book – 2023 Harris County Standard Specifications for the Construction of Roads and Bridges, effective date October 10, 2023. The current HCED specifications may be found at the HCED website: https://www.eng.hctx.net/Consultants/Standards- Specifications/Standard-Engineering-Design-Specifications

When applicable, the Contractor shall use the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) 2020 Standard Specifications Book. The current HCFCD specifications may be found at the HCFCD website: https://www.hcfcd.org/Resources/Technical-Manuals/Standard- Specifications-Related-Drawings?folderId=15985&view=gridview&pageSize=10

When applicable, the Contractor shall also use the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) 2014 Standard Specifications Book. The current TxDOT specifications may be found at the TxDOT website: https://www.txdot.gov/business/resources/txdot-specifications.html

When applicable, the Contractor shall also use the City of Houston (COH) Standard Specifications. The current COH specifications may be found at the COH website:

https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/office-city-engineer/design-and-construction-standards https://www.eng.hctx.net/Consultants/Standards-Specifications/Standard-Engineering-Design-Specifications https://www.eng.hctx.net/Consultants/Standards-Specifications/Standard-Engineering-Design-Specifications https://www.hcfcd.org/Resources/Technical-Manuals/Standard-Specifications-Related-Drawings?folderId=15985&view=gridview&pageSize=10 https://www.hcfcd.org/Resources/Technical-Manuals/Standard-Specifications-Related-Drawings?folderId=15985&view=gridview&pageSize=10 https://www.txdot.gov/business/resources/txdot-specifications.html https://www.txdot.gov/business/resources/txdot-specifications.html https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/office-city-engineer/design-and-construction-standards https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/office-city-engineer/design-and-construction-standards

SPECIAL PROVISION TO

ITEM 530

CONCRETE CURB AND/OR GUTTER, SIDEWALKS AND DRIVEWAYS

Section 530.4 - Measurement.

Replace the second paragraph with the following paragraph.

Work and accepted material as prescribed by this item for concrete sidewalks shall be measured by the square yard of surface area, complete in place including required excavation & disposal of less than 12 inches of soil above the final grade, bank sand bedding material, as indicated on the plans. Any excavation and disposal of more than 12 inches of soil above the final grade shall be measured in accordance with Item 110.

05-20

OTU

SPECIAL SPECIFICATION

ITEM 1008

ROOT PRUNING AND BARRIER

1008.1 DESCRIPTION.

A. Protection of trees and plants which are to remain as indicated on the drawings.

B. Protection and trimming of trees and plants which are indicated to remain but interfere with new construction.

1008.2 MATERIALS.

Burlap. Suitable for use as tree wrapping

Topsoil. Rich in organic matter, sandy loam, free of debris or any vegetative matter and as acceptable to landscape architect.

Root Barrier. Plastic root barrier panels provided by DeepRoot or approved alternate.

1008.3 CONSTRUCTION.

Project Conditions.

A. Coordinate work of this section with all above ground tree protection, including, but not limited to: tree protection fence, tree wrapping, limb and branch pruning, B. Protect Root Systems: Do not store construction materials, debris or excavated material within drip line (outer perimeter of branches, refer to tree protection plan). Do not permit vehicles or equipment parked within drip line as well as restrict foot traffic within drip line to prevent excessive compaction of soil over root systems.

Protection and Maintenance of Existing Trees and Vegetation.

A. Protect existing trees and other vegetation indicated to remain in place, against unnecessary cutting, breaking or skinning of roots, skinning and bruising of bark, smothering of trees by stockpiling construction materials or excavated materials within drip line, excess foot or vehicular traffic, or parking of vehicles within drip line.

Provide protection fences, wood barricades or guards to protect

Item 1008 Page -2-trees and vegetation indicated or directed to remain per the Tree Protection Plan.

B. Do not allow fires under or adjacent to trees or other plants which are to remain.

C. Provide protection for roots over 1 inches in diameter that are cut during construction operations. Temporarily cover all exposed roots with wet burlap or mulch to prevent roots from drying out; provide earth cover as soon as possible.

Excavation around Trees (as applicable).

A. Excavate within drip line of trees only where indicated.

B. Where excavating is required within drip line, bore under or excavate around roots by hand digging. Do not cut main lateral roots or tap roots; cut smaller roots which interfere with installation of new work. Cut roots with sharp pruning instruments; do not break, tear, or chop.

C. Where excavating for new construction is required within drip line of trees, hand excavate to minimize damage to root systems. Provide sheeting at excavations if required. Use narrow tine spading forks and comb soil to expose roots.

D. If root pruning is required in construction areas outside the drip line, it should be cut smoothly with a trencher before excavation begins.

Do not allow ripping of roots with a backhoe or other equipment.

E. Relocate roots in backfill areas wherever possible. If large, main lateral roots are encountered, expose beyond excavation limits as required bending and relocating without breaking. If encountered immediately adjacent to location of new construction and relocation is not practical, cut roots approximately 3 inches back from new construction.

F. Do not allow exposed roots to dry out before root barrier and permanent backfill is placed; provide temporary earth cover, or pack with peat moss and wrap with burlap if roots will remain exposed overnight. Water and maintain in moist condition and temporarily support and protect from damage until permanently relocated and covered with earth.

G. Prune branches to balance loss to root system caused by damage or cutting of root system.

Page -3-

Grading and Filling Around Trees.

A. Maintain existing grade within drip line of trees, unless otherwise indicated.

Protection.

A. Install Root Barrier per manufacturer’s instructions.

Disposal of Waste Materials.

A. Burning or burying of removed trees, branch trimmings, and debris on owner’s property is not permitted.

B. Remove and legally dispose of all excess excavation, displaced trees, trimmings, and debris from site. At owner’s discretion, contractor may grind woody debris and spread wood chippings in tree preservation areas.

1008.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE.

A. Engage a certified arborist to perform/supervise the following works if necessary.

1. Recommend procedures to compensate for loss of roots

(cutting of tree canopy to be paid under Item 501) and stimulation of root growth where removed to accommodate new construction.

2. Perform tree and plant repair work for damages incurred by new construction.

B. Certified Arborist Qualifications.

1. Arborist – A certified arborist shall be hired to monitor and assist with field layout (exact locations of root pruning and root barrier) of the tree preservation program during demolition and construction to ensure tree protection procedures and techniques are practiced as specified to address concerns and conditions which occur in the field.

The Certified Arborist shall be normally engaged in the field and have a minimum of 5 years of experience as a consultant. Qualifications of the selected certified arborist shall be submitted for review and approval by the project engineer.

Page -4-

05-20

OTU

1008.5

1008.6

MEASUREMENT.

This item shall be measured by the lump sum or by each in accordance with the Contract Documents.

PAYMENT.

The work performed in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under “Measurement” shall be paid for at the unit price bid for “Root Pruning and Barrier”. This price is full compensation for excavation, installing barrier, backfilling, equipment, labor, tools and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

END OF ITEM 1008

04-21

SPECIAL SPECIFIFCATION

ITEM 1016

PREPARING RIGHT-OF-WAY

1016.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for the preparing of right-of-way and designated easements for construction by removing and disposing of all obstructions and objectionable material when removal of such obstruction is not specifically shown on the Contract Documents.

1016.2 CONSTRUCTION.

It is the duty and responsibility of the Contractor to locate all "live" utility facilities within the right-of-way or designated easements and to protect these facilities except when otherwise instructed on the Contract Documents.

Designated features for preservation in the right-of-way shall be protected from abuse, marring or damage during construction operations. Damage to features for preservation shall be repaired or replaced at the Contractor’s expense and with the Engineers acceptance. Trees shall be pruned in accordance with Item 501 “Tree Protection and Trimming.” Trees designated to be removed shall not be painted or damaged prior to removal.

Do not park equipment, service equipment, or stockpile construction materials within 3 feet of the drip line of trees designated for preservation.

Clear areas shown on the Contract Documents of all obstructions and objectionable materials, except those landscape features that are to be preserved. Such obstructions and objectionable materials include trees, shrubs, stumps, overhangs, other landscaping features not designated for preservation, logs, tires, appliances, trash, rubbish and other debris, including any deleterious materials that exist within the project limits. The removal of concrete curb and gutter, driveways, concrete pavement, paved parking areas, miscellaneous stone, and sidewalks shall be in accordance with Item 104 "Removing Old Concrete." The removal of fences shall be in accordance with Item 550 "Existing Fence and Gates." The removal of traffic signs, roadside signs, mailboxes, and light and traffic poles shall be in accordance with Special Specification Item 5054 "Traffic Signs, Roadside Signs, and Mail Boxes." The removal of manholes, inlets, box culverts, and other drainage structures shall be in accordance with Special Specification Item 1017 "Removing Structures." Remove box culverts, pipe, manholes, Item 1016

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and inlets in proper sequence to maintain traffic and drainage. No clearing shall be done outside the project limits or the right-of-way.

On areas receiving embankment, strip existing topsoil in accordance with Special Specification Item 1019 “Embankment.” All obstructions shall be removed to a depth of 2 feet below natural ground. In areas to be excavated, obstructions shall be removed to a depth of 2 feet below the excavation level. Backfill, compact, and restore areas where obstructions have been removed in accordance with Special Specification Item 1019 “Embankment.”

The Contractor shall schedule his preparing of right-of-way operations so that removing and disposing of obstructions and objectionable material has been completed for a distance of 2,000 feet ahead of any point where excavation is to be started. After starting excavation, the Contractor shall keep a minimum of 1,000 feet of prepared right-of-way ahead of the excavation operation.

All obstructions, objectionable materials, and unsuitable materials shall be disposed offsite. The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining any necessary disposal permits. The Contractor shall not dispose any refuse on Harris County property. The disposal site shall not be an environmentally sensitive area, “Waters of the United States”, wetland, or floodway. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to contact the proper authorities to determine land use classification and to obtain any necessary permits. If the disposal site is defined in the Contract Documents, Harris County shall be responsible for ensuring that the appropriate Department of the Army permit has been obtained for activity, as necessary. Burning shall not be allowed unless otherwise noted.

The Contractor shall refer to Item 560 “Maintenance and Cleanup of the Project Site” for cleanup schedule and frequency of disposal materials.

1016.3 MEASUREMENT.

Preparing right-of-way shall be measured by the lump sum, area (e.g.

square feet, square yard, etc.), or 100 foot station.

1016.4 PAYMENT.

The work performed and the materials furnished in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under "Measurement" shall be paid for at the unit price bid for "Preparing Right-of-Way” as designated in the contact documents. This price is full compensation for clearing area of all obstructions and objectionable materials including trees, shrubs, stumps, overhangs, logs, tires, appliances, trash, rubbish and other debris;

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backfilling of holes; removal and disposal of structures; furnishing and placing concrete plugs for storm drains; removal and disposal of unsuitable materials; and materials furnished, equipment, labor, tools, and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

There are item code(s), description(s), and unit(s) for this Item.

NOTE: This Item requires other Standard and Special Specifications

Item 104 “Removing Old Concrete” Item 501 “Tree Protection and Trimming” Item 550 "Existing Fence and Gates" Item 560 “Maintenance and Cleanup of the Project Site” Item 1017 “Removing Structures” Item 1019 “Embankment” Item 5054 "Traffic Signs, Roadside Signs, and Mail Boxes"

END OF ITEM 1016

08-05

ITEM 7018

REMOVE AND SALVAGE OR RESET EXISTING CONCRETE PIPE

7018.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall consist of the removal and salvaging or resetting of existing concrete pipe as directed by the Engineer and shall include all excavation and backfill necessary to complete the work.

7018.2 CONSTRUCTION METHODS.

All excavation made in connection with this item and all openings below the natural ground line caused by the removal and salvaging or resetting of the pipe shall be backfilled to the level of the original ground. All excavation and backfilling required for the removal and salvaging or resetting of the pipe shall be performed according to Harris County Standard Specification Item 430 "Construction of Underground Utilities."

7018.3 MEASUREMENT.

Concrete pipe to be removed and salvaged or reset shall be measured by the linear foot along the centerline of the pipe. Any excavation and backfill required will not be measured for payment, but shall be subsidiary to this item.

7018.4 PAYMENT.

Removal and salvaging or resetting of concrete pipe will be made at the unit price bid per linear foot for "Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe" or “Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe” of the various sizes indicated. Payment shall be full compensation for excavation and backfill and includes all labor, tools, equipment, and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

The descriptions and units for this Item are:

Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (18”) Linear Foot Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (24”) Linear Foot Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (30”) Linear Foot Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (36”) Linear Foot Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (42”) Linear Foot

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Remove and Salvage Existing Concrete Pipe (48”) Linear Foot

Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (18”) Linear Foot Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (24”) Linear Foot Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (30”) Linear Foot Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (36”) Linear Foot Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (42”) Linear Foot Remove and Reset Existing Concrete Pipe (48”) Linear Foot

NOTE: This specification requires a Standard Specification.

Item 430 “Construction of Underground Utilities”

END OF ITEM 7018

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ITEM 7027

ADJUSTMENT OR REPLACEMENT OF VALVES OR METER BOXES

7027.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for furnishing the materials and equipment for adjustment or replacement of existing gas and or water valves and meter boxes. Valve and meter boxes shall be adjusted or replaced at the locations and elevations shown on the drawings or as directed by the Engineer. This specification is not intended to include meter vaults.

7027.2 MATERIALS.

Existing valve and meter boxes that are undamaged and are in working condition may be salvaged and re-used. Otherwise, the Contractor shall provide for new boxes.

A. Valve Boxes. Valve boxes shall be Type A cast iron, slide type, with the letter “W” cast into the lid for water and the letter “G” into the lid for gas. Riser pipes shall be 6 inch diameter PVC, Class 150, DR 18 or Ductile- iron, thickness Class 51 with a minimum length of 18 Inches.

B. Water Meter Boxes. The “box” shall consist of a frame and a lid with reading port. Plastic or concrete boxes are to be used in non-traffic bearing locations. Cast-iron boxes are to be used in traffic bearing locations. All boxes shall have the words “Water Meter” cast into the lids.

The Contractor shall submit proposed manufacturer, model number and product data for approval before proceeding with replacement of valve or meter boxes. The boxes shall match the existing ones in the project area.

7027.3 CONSTRUCTION.

Valve and meter boxes shall be removed, inspected and cleaned to remove debris. Any part of the box that is broken during the removal process shall be replaced by the Contractor at their expense. Should the condition of the box preclude its re-use, the Contractor shall provide a new box.

Where the valve box is located in asphalt or concrete paving the box shall be installed to match the proposed paving grade so that it does not interfere

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with wheeled or pedestrian traffic. The use of block-outs is acceptable in concrete pavement construction.

Where valve boxes are to be installed in unpaved areas, the top of the box shall match the finished grade elevation and not protrude and interfere with lawn mowing operations.

7027.4 MEASUREMENT.

This Item shall be measured by each valve and meter box adjusted or replaced.

7027.5 PAYMENT.

The work performed and materials furnished in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under “Measurement” shall be paid at the unit price bid for “Water Valve Box Adjustment”, “Water Valve Box Replacement”, “Water Meter Box Adjustment”, “Water Meter Box Replacement”, “Gas Valve Box Adjustment”, or “Gas Valve Box Replacement.” This price is full compensation for furnishing all materials, tools, equipment, labor, utility coordination, and incidentals necessary to complete the work. Payment shall be made when the valve box or meter box adjustment or replacement is satisfactorily completed.

The descriptions and units for this Item are:

Water Valve Box Adjustment Each Water Valve Box Replacement Each Water Meter Box Adjustment Each Water Meter Box Replacement Each Gas Valve Box Adjustment Each Gas Valve Box Replacement Each

NOTE: This Item requires City of Houston Standard Drawing(s) that shall be incorporated into the Contract Documents.

COH Drawing 02085-01 Standard Plastic Meter Box-5/8” to 1” Meters COH Drawing 02085-02 Location of Water Meter Box for 2” Diameter Less COH Drawing 02085-03 Valve Box Detail

END OF ITEM 7027

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SPECIAL SPECIFICATION

ITEM 7029

REPAIRING MANHOLES AND INLETS

7029.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for the furnishing of materials and for the repairing of damaged and/or deteriorated manholes and inlets where required by the plans or as directed by the Engineer. Such damaged or deteriorated manholes and inlets shall preferably be restored to their original condition, or if this is not feasible, they shall be restored to the extent that the Engineer deems practical.

7029.2 MATERIALS.

Manhole rings, covers, plates, or inlet grates, and brick in good condition, removed from the manholes and inlets in the process of repairing, may be reused. Additional materials required shall conform to the pertinent provisions for those materials of Item 471 "Precast Concrete Manholes" or Item 472 "Inlets." The Engineer shall determine whether the existing rings, covers, etc. may be reused.

7029.3 CONSTRUCTION.

Manholes rings, covers, plates, and inlet grates shall be carefully removed and the contact areas shall be cleaned of all mortar and contaminants.

Rings, covers, plates, or grates broken in the process of removal shall be replaced in kind.

Damaged or deteriorated brickwork and/or concrete shall be removed to the extent necessary to expose sound material. In the case of brickwork, the mortar shall be cleaned from the top course of brick remaining in place and from all brick to be reused. Concrete and brick surfaces shall be thoroughly cleaned of all loose material or other contaminants before rebuilding to original top dimensions. The walls and top shall then be rebuilt by placing new concrete and/or courses of brick. After rebuilding, the manhole or inlet ring, cover, plate, or grate shall then be installed with the top conforming to the original surface of street or grading as the case may be.

Grade rings where used shall have 1/2 inch thick cement mortar coat inside and outside or the grade rings shall be installed with grout or mastic joint compound e.g. Flex-Seal Utility Sealant or approved equal, to provide a

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7029.4

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