POD 6 RFI Questions and Responses 47- 216.pdf

RFI

Drawing/Spec Reference

Category Question Response by Response

RFP I - 52.229-

S0043

Article indicates the Contractor shall pay all taxes applicable taxes except to the extent that the Contractor obtains tax exempt certificates in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. Please clarify if SI is tax exempt in Maryland.

OCON

The Smithsonian is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt educational organization with exemptions in MD, DC and VA for construction projects.

2 01 1000-1.6

Section 01 1000-1.6A states " The work includes receiving, unloading, handling, storing, protection, and installing Owner furnished products. 01 1000- 1.6B lists FFE as Owner furnished products. Please clarify any FFE to be installed by contractor in addition to the storage equipment rails.

SI Confirm the collections storage equipment rails & covers.

3 01 8113-1.2A Section 01 8113-1.2A references LEED Silver. Section 01 0000-2.2 references LEED Gold. Please clarify.

AE LEED Gold is correct.

4 SB105NP

Note 2 on SB105NP indicates that the bottom of footing elevations is 2'-6" below the datum. It is assumed that this hasn't been corrected from a previous version of the drawings to read pile caps, and that it should be the top of pile caps not bottom. The pile caps are 60" plus in thickness in most cases, this would put the top of the cap above the slab on grade. Please confirm.

AE

Note 2 only applies to spread footings below exterior retaining walls and does not apply to pile caps.

5 Section 13 0340 Reference Section 13 0340. Please provide contact information for qualified bidder "Conviro Air".'

AE

Contact form for Conviron Air:

https://www.conviron.com/contact/

6 S-012DG

The mockup frames on S-012DG do not have any base plate sizes for the connection for the slabs. Please provide required sizes and anchor bolt information.

AE

Per note on Section 1J and 1E BP6 should be used as the base plate for all columns.

7 S-012DG

There are no details for the connection of the mockup framing members on S- 012DG. Will these be bolted connections or welded? Please provide some typical details.

AE

Steel to steel shear connections should follow "Typical Suggested Shear Connections at Gravity Loads" detail on SF502DT. Lateral brace connections should follow "Typical Lateral Brace Connection at Column" typical details on SF503DT

8 S-012DG

Please confirm the mockup framing indicated on S-012DG should be galvanized, or if a primed steel is acceptable given that it is temporary.

AE

It is acceptable to not galvanize steel to be installed in a temporary condition.

9 A-420EP

In room 6-3001 SI NMNH Collections Storage, the enlarged plan shows the countertop on the East elevation to be Phenolic Resin. In elevation 1B, the material is called out as High-Pressure Compact Laminate. Please clarify which material is required.

AE

Countertops to be as specified. Refer to 12 2553.13 Part 2 Section 2.8

SF-601SH; SF-

502DT

In the Remarks column in the Base Plate Schedule on SF-601SH, some of the base plates are indicated to "provide shear lug per typical detail". The typical base plate detail on SF-502DT doesn't indicate any shear lugs. Please provide shear lug design if required.

AE

The shear lugs should follow the requirements of the "Typical Frame Connection at Base of Column Detail" On

SF503DT.

11 SF-601SH

On the Base Plate Type Schedule on SF-601SH, base plates 1-14 are called for, but based on the Base Plate Schedule, it doesn't appear that BP6 is used.

Please confirm that it is not required.

AE See response to comment #6

Section 12 3553.13

A-605DG

Please provide performance requirements and material type for the adjustable wall shelving (AS).

AE

Adjustable Wall Shelf Supports: Surface-type steel standards and steel shelf brackets, with epoxy powder-coated finish, complying with BHMA A156.9, Type B04102 and Type B04112.

Shelving Material - Phenolic Resin

SB-106NP; SF-

502DT

The catwalk platforms shown on SB-106NP do not have any cuts in the platform. It is assumed the detail on SF-502DT are the applicable section for this area. The size of the base plates indicated on these details is not indicated. Please provide required sizes.

AE

Yes, "Typical Platform at Electrical Yard" Detail on SF502DT is applicable for the exterior catwalks on SB106NP. Base plates are 8"x8"x1/2" thick with (2) 3/4" diameter anchor bolts. Column to be welded all around to base plate with 1/4" fillet weld.

SB-106NP; SF-

502DT

The details for the generator yard catwalks shown on SF-502DT show a kicker angle/brace. The detail is not scaled, and there doesn't appear to be a way to measure the brace length. In addition, the angles are not laid out on the plans.

Please clarify angle/brace lengths and locations.

AE

Bids should assume (22) braces, 2'-6" long angles, sized as shown in typical detail on SF502DT.

333302-22RF-0010030 POD 6 REQUST FOR INFORMATION

SF-107MP; SF-

305SC; SF-

503DT

The edge condition at the mechanical mezzanine on SF-107MP indicates detail 2/SF-305SC. This detail indicates a bent plate slab edge and refers to the typical details, which are located on SF-503DT. These details indicate a pour stop system, not a bent plate. Please confirm if steel bent plate is required at the slab edge or if gage pour stop is acceptable at the mezzanine. If plate is required, please provide plate requirements.

AE

Per manufacturer's product guide, an 11" overhang requires a 10 gage pour stop, which is acceptable.

Typically a 1/4" thick bent plate is used in lieu of 10 gage metal, and is also acceptable.

16 RFP L.2C

RFP article L.2C requests the name and 3 references for subcontractors that fall under 19 categories be provided at the time the bid is submitted. Can this be provided within 24 hours of submitting the bid?

SI

No, the subcontractors' name and 3 references need to be provided at the same time as the bid.

17 SF-108MP

Keynote 19 on SF-108MP is called out on the plans for a new posts to be added at the corner of the existing framing for the canopy. Its not clear what the elevation of the existing structure is to determine the column length. Please provide top of steel elevation.

AE

Top of Existing steel assumed to be at 294'-3" based on existing drawings. Contractor to verfiy length in field.

SF-108MP; SF-

303SC

The OH Door Entrance area on SF-108MP has a section cut of 1A/SF-303SC.

The roof edge is not clear, is this a bent plate or will a gage pour stop be acceptable? Please clarify.

AE

The slab overhang is 6 1/4" at the OH Door Entrance, which can be accomplished with a 12 gage pour stop per manufacturer's recommendations and is acceptable.

A-315SC; A-

514DT; SF-

108MP

There is a note on 8A/A-315SC that indicates metal deck to match existing at the dock canopy. Furthermore, on A-514DT which shows enlarged details, it implies new steel framing. Based on SF-108MP there doesn't appear to be any new framing or metal decking installed outside of a post. Please confirm new framing/decking is not required, or clarify member sizes, and deck type, thickness and gage that is required.

AE

The only new steel required will be post indicated on SF- 108MP. Architectural details on A-514 will be removed and notes on 8A/A-315SC will be revised to reflect existing materials.

20 LP-901DT

Drawing LP-901DT references reforestation of 100 new trees in addition to those already designed in the project. Please confirm these trees are those shown on Drawing LP-804SP, and not an additional 100 trees.

AE Confirmed

21 M-104FP

The more southern roof curb noted on drawing M-104FP, above the Level 1 equipment room, notes "RH-1". This designation could not be found on any of the parts/equipment schedules. Is this supposed to be a return hood, a relative humidity sensor, or something else? Please provide designation.

AE

Note should indicate exhaust hood EH-1. RH-1 is an outdated name for EH-1 which was not revised.

22 M-602SH

There are two Cold Storage Room Equipment schedules on M-602SH. Please confirm the distinction between these. Are they only separated because they serve/are located at different areas?

AE

One schedule lists Cold Storage Room equipment, and the other lists Cool Storage Room equipment. Equipment is sorted to serve those two areas.

23 M-602SH

In the lower Cold Storage Room Equipment Schedule, the performance specification for the CSE-ACCU equipment says these units are operating at 21 degrees Celsius. The CSACCU units have both a Fahrenheit and Celsius designation. I believe these units are the same, but just serving different areas.

Is the temperature designation for the CSE-ACCU units supposed to be listed as 21 degrees Fahrenheit?

AE

The temperature listed is the suction temperature of the refrigerant system. The CSE-ACCU and CS-ACCU outdoor condensing units are similar, but have different operating conditions due to the different environmental conditions within the Cold/Cool storage rooms. Refer to specification section 130340 for additional information.

24 M-104FP

At grid lines 28 and J (1 example of several) on Drawing M-104FP, there is a symbol of a circle with a "V" inside of it. This symbol is not defined in th Mechanical or Plumbing Legends. There is a similar symbol in the Electrical Legend for Power to VESDA Panel, but that can't be correct. Please define what this symbol means relative to the Mechanical Drawings.

AE This symbol is for a VOC sensor.

25 M-105FP

Drawing M-105FP shows a piece of equipment noted as "DPT-HW-2" near grid lines 28 and C. "DPT" does not shown up in any of the MEP schedules or abbreviations. Please define what this abbreviation means relative to MEP systems.

AE

DPT is a differential pressure transmitter, indicated on M- 702DG. Refer to sequences of operation for use of DPTs in pump control.

26 26 31 00

The Photovoltaic collectors states in the mounting structures to reference Architectural and Structural Specification. This does not appear to be referenced in the Volume 1 specifications or in the drawings. Please provide the mounting structure details for the PV system including roof details if penetrations occur.

AE

PVs are to be a ballasted system with no connection to structure. Panelclaw Roof Mount 10 degree tilt system is the basis of design.

27 M-103FP

Drawing M-103FP states that, the bottom of the return duct must be a minimum of 12'-2" AFF to avoid interference with roll up door, however the Door schedules states door "6-2022.1" is 12'-00'. We believe this may cause an interference with roll up door gear box. Please confirm if any design change is needed.

AE

The duct should clear the door assembly; however, the duct can be raised if additional space is needed.

28 SF-107MP

The dunnage platform on SF-107MP doesn't appear to have any details that indicate base plates at the HSS posts/columns. It is assumed there is something, please confirm and provide required plate sizes.

AE

Base plates for dunnage posts should be 8"x1'-2"x1/2" thick. Base plates should be welded to dunnage posts with 1/4" fillet weld and base plates attached to steel beam with

(4) 3/4" diameter bolts to top flange of supporting beams.

29 M-602SH

The Fan Coil Unit Schedule has 2 notes designating the BOD for each FCU.

Please provide the BOD designation for the FCU's labeled as "Standby".

AE

BOD for standby FCUs (FCU-XB) shall be similar to primary FCUs (FCU-XA).

30 Spec 07 14 16

Specification section 07 14 16 - Cold Fluid-applied waterproofing was provided.

This type of waterproofing is typically seen under the topping slab however this does not seem to be referenced in the drawings or details. Please confirm if cold fluid-applied waterproofing is required on this project.

AE

Refer to details on A-513DT. The intent is to provide waterproofing between the slab and grade beam. This is to be the typical condition at all locations unless noted otherwise.

Detail 5A/A-510DT will be updated in the Conformed Set to align with this direction. In detail 5A/A-510DT the waterproofing currently shown on the vertical face of the grade beam will be removed, except for the overlap between the foundation wall and grade beam joint. The cold fluid-applied waterproofing will be applied to the top of the grade beam and tied into the underslab vapor barrier.

09 91 23 - Interior Panting

A-125 CP-A-131 CP

Spec 09 91 23, paragraph 3.3.E. 1 & 2, reference painting of exposed Fire Suppression, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Communication, and Electronic Safety and Security Work in the finished work. Drawing A-125 CP through A- 131 CP (specifically, the Ceiling Legend) doesn’t reference painting of the exposed steel structure and specifically calls for the exposed ductwork to remain “unpainted”. Please clarify if exposed Piping, Electrical, and Fire Suppression Piping will require painting in the exposed ceiling conditions.

AE

Unless noted all exposed piping, electrical and fire suppression piping are to be painted as specified.

09 91 23 - Interior Panting

A-604

Ref. Drawing A-604: Finish Schedule does not have a “Ceiling” designation.

Drawings A125 through A131 CP (Ceiling Plans) do not indicate painted finishes on any of the ceilings. Please clarify if Drywall and Exposed Structure ceilings are to receive painted finishes.

AE

Exposed structural ceilings (concrete) shall be unpainted.

Drywall ceilings are to be painted.

Spec 099123 - Interior Painting

Paragraph 3.3.E. 1 & 2, reference painting of exposed Fire Suppression, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Communication, and Electronic Safety and Security Work in the finished work. Drawing A-125 CP through A-131 CP (specifically, the Ceiling Legend) doesn’t reference painting of the exposed steel structure and specifically calls for the exposed ductwork to remain “unpainted”. Please clarify if exposed Piping, Electrical, and Fire Suppression Piping will require painting in the exposed ceiling conditions

AE

Exposed steel structure will be covered by SFRM as detailed. Miscellaneous steel that does not require SFRM shall be painted the same color as walls.

Unless noted all exposed piping, electrical and fire suppression piping are to be painted as specified.

34 A-604

Ref. Drawing A-604: Finish Schedule does not have a“Ceiling” designation.Drawings A125 through A131 CP (Ceiling Plans) do not indicate painted finishes on any of the ceilings. Please clarify if Drywall and Exposed Structure ceilings are to receive painted finishes.

AE

Exposed structural ceilings (concrete) shall be unpainted.

Drywall ceilings are to be painted.

35 312000

Spec. Section 312000 (Earthmoving), Part 3 section 3.4 speaks about A.

Unclassified excavation so subgrade regardless of material and also B.

Classified excavation in respect to dirt & rock and talked about Rock excavation will be on unit price bases. Is this project a Classified or unclassified excavation project in respect to excavation?

SI Use unclassified excavation for this project.

No line striping specification was included with the documents. Please provide a line striping specification or clarify if this scope is to be performed by Others outside of the lump sum bid submission.

AE

Pavement striping shall be included as part of the lump sum bid submission. Assume white, waterborne paint application. A specification will be provided in future Addendum.

37 LP-801 & 802

Soil remediation mixes – there are two type of soil remediations shown on plans (LP-801 & 802), “ 12” & 24” Soil Remediations “ areas and “ 24” Silver Hill Soil Remediation” area. – Please provide mix design per each area.

AE See Specification 329100-Soil Preparation

Due to clutter and confusion between the HVAC ductwork and HVAC piping being shown on the same plan - please consider separating these drawings out within the document set for clarity of use.

AE

The design team believes there is sufficient clarity in the documents to identify ductwork and piping. Refer to 1H/M- 301SC for a section where ductwork/piping is most congested.

Please clarify if any Project Labor Agreements (PLA's) are required on this project due to the project size and recent executive order of President Joseph Biden.

SI

The FAR council has not finalized the regulations incorporating the EO. We therefore do not need to add it to the solicitation.

40 Vol 3 Specs

Volume 3 of the specifications contains engineering calculations, design narrative, LEED scorecard, product data sheets, etc. These documents are design work products and have found a instances of discrepancies with the final design. We assume all necessary information for construction has been incorporated into the drawings and specifications and these documents are not part of the contract.

Please confirm

AE Confirmed.

41 Roof Details We are unable to located a detail for the connection of the PV array racks to structure and the roof penetration condition. Please provide these details

AE

PVs are to be a ballasted system with no connection to structure. Panelclaw Roof Mount 10 degree tilt system is the basis of design.

42 Roof

Low roof along CL S.1 has a call out for cross-section 5A / A-314. This call out leads to detail 9J / A-512 which shows a 1 1/2-hour rated expansion joint. Life Safety plan G-113 does not indicate any rating at this location. Please confirm the detail is correct and address life safety plan if necessary.

AE

The joint in 9J/A-512 is required to be a a 1 1/2 hour rated joint as shown. Refer to detail 1K/G-115VP showing the rating of the wall separating new construction from the existing building. The 1 1/2 hour joint is continuous at intersection of new construction and the existing building.

43 Spec 07 61 00 Spec 07 61 00, Par 2.2 does not provide a product for the sheet metal roofing, but only states to match existing. Please provide a product for this roofing along with a selection from the manufacturer's colors

AE This reference will be removed the from the specification.

44 Spec 08 45 23

Spec 08 45 23, Par 2.3. C.3 indicates the fiberglass sandwich panels pattern is to be 10" Verti-kal. Par 2.3.A.1 calls for panel cores to be filled with aerogel.

The Kalwall Verti-kal pattern system is not offered with aerogel fill. Also, Par 2.1.H lists U-value and SHGC criteria which appears to be based on the Verti-kal system.

We assume the Verti-kal system without aerogel fill is to be provided. Please confirm

AE

Aerogel fill is not required with the Verti-kal system.

Additionally, the Manufacturer has noted that the available warranty for the Corrosion Resistant Finish is 10 years vs.

20 years.

Sandwich Panel Details

We are unable to locate a detail for any support framing for the fiberglass sandwich panels. We assume the system is sufficient to anchor at the header and sill. Please confirm. If not, please provide a detail for any additional framing required.

AE

A 4x4 HSS equal to the length of the Kalwall at the corner of the short and long axis is required to be anchored to the column at gridlines 28.1 and A .

The panel system itself is structural and will not require additional vertical support other than the corner.

46 Detail 1J / A-513 Detail 1J / A-513 shows a steel box beam for the header framing for the fiberglass sandwich panels. Please provide the size this box beam.

AE

Cantilevered metal stud with fixed connection at vertical parapet extension is required in lieu of a steel box beam.

Has any vibration criteria or monitoring locations been developed to determine safe vibration limits for neighboring buildings or artifacts?

SI

Use following Vibration Monitoring Criteria and Protocols:

a. For any vibration that is sustained during work for 10 seconds or more at a rate of 2.5 mmps, contractor and SI staff will be required to evaluate work protocol in order to continue work.

b. For any vibration that is sustained during work for 10 seconds or more at a rate of 3.0 mmps, contractor and SI staff will be required to stop work entirely and reevaluate work methods.

c. For any “shocks” that are registered by the monitors at 6 mmps or above.

contractor and SI staff will be required to stop work and reevaluate work methods.General Contractor to provide Vibration Management.

Is it expected for the contractor or subcontractor to come up with a vibration monitoring and control plan for this project?

SI

SI to provide Vibration Monitoring through a third party.

Contractor is to provide a control plan.

Will any noise monitoring need to be done to ensure that the sound emitted from construction does not interfere with staff within the building?

SI

Coordinate operations that may result in high levels of noise, as specified. Refer to 01 1000 Part 1 Section 1.8.C

Specifications for Earthwork, Concrete and Structural Steel clearly indicate that the Owner will hire an independent testing agency for testing. Other specification sections (precast, fireproofing, fiberglass panels, asphalt) seem to indicate the Contractor is to hire an independent testing agency. It would seem logical for one agency be hired to perform all independent testing requirements. Please confirm the Owner intends to hire the independent testing agency for all independent testing requirements.

SI

The Contractor to be responsible for ALL third party independent testing.

51 05 1200

There are several areas in section 05 1200 that reference slip critical and demand critical welding (see 1.5.E and 2.1.E.5). There doesn't appear to be any specific details on the job that indicate these requirements. Please confirm they are not required.

AE

No connections have been deemed Demand Critical.

Whether or not slip critical capacities are required is dependent on the connection designs provided by the steel detailer.

52 05 3100

In section 05 3100 - 2.3 there are mentions of acoustic roof deck and form deck. The only deck types on the slab/deck schedule on SF-601SH is a 2", 18GA and 3", 18GA. Please confirm that there is no acoustic or form deck required.

AE No acoustic roof or form deck.

53 05 5000-2.8 In section 05 5000-2.8 there is reference to shelf angles. Its not clear where shelf angles would be required on the project. Please clarify or confirm they are not required.

AE No cavity wall shelf angles are required on this project.

05 5000-2.16; A- 516DT thru A-

518DT; 05 5100-

2.4

In section 05 5000-2.16 there are two different nosing types called for, square back units and two-piece units. Drawings A-516DT thru A-518DT show similar details for the nosings, so its not clear which system is required and where.

Will both of these types be required on the project? If so, please clarify which system is required and where. Also note that in section 05 5100-2.4 there are also nosings called for. Please clarify required systems.

AE

At egress stairs the intent is for an abrasive nosing as detailed and nosings described in 05 5000-2.16. Nosings may be square back or two-piece units.

At CIP steps in the MER cast nosings are preferred.

55 A-108FP typ There are several bollards on the elevated decks (see A-108FP for a typical example). There doesn't appear to be any details showing the bollards and how they connect to the deck. Please provide details.

AE The intent is for bollards to be bolted to the concrete slabs.

56 05 5213-2.1

Section 05 5213-2.1 references the manufacturers for the pipe and tube railings. The manufacturers listed are more of a decorative railing manufacturer than a steel railing manufacturer. Please confirm that qualified misc metal firms may manufacturer the railings based on the details in the drawings.

AE

Any manufacturer who meets the material and structural requirements is acceptable.

57 013100.1.8.B Will SI accept proposals to review alternative Project Management software platforms outside of I-Manage?

AE Refer to Addendum #2

58 013250.1.3.J Reference Section 012350-1.3J, are the laser scan point cloud files to capture all underground utility work?

SI

Not all underground utility work, laser scanning should focus within the building footprint. Underground utility work outside of the building footprint should be captured and documented via standard As-Built procedures.

Laser scans are also required during rough-in, prior to close-in, & project completion as noted in specification.

59 A-125CP

There are cord reels shown on the reflected ceiling plans (see A-125CP for example). Will any support framing be required for the reels? If so, please provide details.

AE

The intent is the that the cord reels be attached above the RCP to unistrut suspended from the structure above.

60 07 8100

Section 07 8100-2.2.A.14 and 2.3.A.14 indicate to provide a color for the spray applied fireproofing from the manufacturers full range. Spray applied fireproofing tends to be a single color for each manufacturer. Is the intent that the Govt wished to paint all of the exposed fireproofing? Please confirm the manufacturer's standard color is acceptable and that we do not have paint all of the fireproofing.

AE

The intent is not to paint the SFRM, but the color of the SFRM is to be white or a light gray when the material is dry.

61 07 8413

Section 07 8413-2.1A calls for all firestopping used throughout the project to be from the same manufacturer. Can this be broken out so that all firestopping used by one trade is by the same manufacturer (i.e. all plumbing firestopping), or do all trades throughout the project need to coordinate to use a single manufacturer?

SI

All fire stopping is to be by a single manufacturer. All trades should use the same firestopping manufacturer.

10 2213; A-

424EP

The details on A-424-EP show 3” ‘T’ channel. Such channel is not part of the specified 10 2213 Wire Mesh Partitions – and does not meet industry standard.

Industry standard - as set by the Woven Wire Products Association- and the partitions outlined in 10 2213 include 1-1/2” x ¾” x 1/8” channel framing.

Please confirm the specified channel framing is acceptable and the detailed 3”T-channel is not required.

AE

Framing specified in 10 2213 is acceptable. Details will be revised.

63 10 2213 Please clarify if industry standard 2” diamond mesh acceptable as in lieu of the 1 1/2" X 2 1/2" rectangular mesh specified in 10 2213?

AE

2" diamond mesh is not acceptable, however a 1 1/2" x 1 1/2" or 2" x 2" square mesh is acceptable.

64 10 2213 Please clarify which finish is required for the wire mesh partitions as spec 10 2213 includes both: shop-applied, air-dried enamel finish or heat-fused powder coat finish?

AE Either are acceptable.

Pavement Markings

Please provide Pavement Markings specification for this project. AE A specification will be provided in future Addendum.

Assume white, waterborne paint application.

66 P-601SH P-103FP

The Plumbing drawings show the sanitary pipe within the building and routing down to the sewage ejectors and sump pumps. Referencing details 1K and 1G on P-601SH does not show where the sanitary line is being pumped to after it gets down to the pumps. The notes say to refer to the floor plans for continuation, but the only instance of sanitary piping leaving the area of work is shown on the North East of Drawing P-103FP. Is this the only point of sanitary discharge from the building?

AE

There is only one connection of the sanitary system to the existing sanitary below the slab of adjacent Pod. The sanitary from the new storage module, all gravity sanitary from the upper levels and the pumped discharge from the sewage ejector is routed through the new street area to tie into the existing below slab sanitary piping in the adjacent Pod. Refer to P-101FP for point of connection to the existing below slab sanitary piping.

67 A-603SH

At roll-up doors, a steel frame is scheduled per the door schedule on A-603SH.

The typical details for roll-up doors on the same page call out hollow metal frames. Please confirm interior roll-up doors are to receive hollow metal frames and exterior doors will receive a 3/4" aluminum plate.

AE Confirmed, the exterior door opening will be as detailed.

68 A-603SH

Opening 6-1ME2A has a steel frame scheduled. Please confirm this frame is intended to be hollow metal.

AE This frame is intended to hollow metal.

69 08 7100 A-603SH

Opening 6-3025D is listed under both hardware sets 19 and 23 in specification 08 7100. Please confirm this opening is to receive hardware set 23 as scheduled on A-603SH.

AE Confirmed

70 08 7100 A-603SH

Opening 6-3025E.1 is listed under both hardware sets 18 and 22 in specification 08 7100. Please confirm this opening is to receive hardware set 22 as scheduled on A-603SH.

AE Confirmed

71 08 7100 A-603SH

Opening 6-3025E.2 is listed under hardware set 5 in specification 08 7100.

Please confirm this opening is to receive hardware set 19 as scheduled on A-

603SH.

AE

Door and hinges will be by Environmental Chamber Manufacturer all other hardware per Hardware Set No. 05

72 03 4500 - 2.7

Section 2.7A in 03 4500 calls for concrete sandwich wall panel connectors to have a static pullout capacity exceeding 5600lbs. CC Series Connectors by Thermomass have been tested to have a pullout capacity of 3,440lbs, which has been proven to be acceptable for any precast facade application. Please confirm if the Thermomass CC connectors are acceptable to use for the sandwich panels.

AE

Acceptable if approved by delegated design professional engineer.

73 Section 13 0340 Many of the Qualified Bidders listed in section 13 0340 are not interested in bidding this project. Would Harris Environmental Systems (Andover, MA) be an acceptable subcontractor for this section?

AE

If all engineering and specification requirements can be achieved within the area allotted without redesign of the chambers or mechanical space and all elements are provided by a single manufacturer, it is acceptable.

74 Section 13 0340 Many of the Qualified Bidders listed in section 13 0340 are not interested in bidding this project. Would Labworks International (Woodbridge, Ontario) be an acceptable subcontractor for this section?

AE

If all engineering and specification requirements can be achieved within the area allotted without redesign of the chambers or mechanical space and all elements are provided by a single manufacturer, it is acceptable.

A-109FP; A-

311SC; A-503DT

The perimeter columns encased in drywall in the collection spaces are indicated to have an aluminum cap. A-109FP which has a detail cut to 9J/A- 503DT at CL J/30 is an example of this. Once on A-503DT it references to the cap on 5E/A-503DT. What isn't clear is what happens at the braced frames along the perimeter wall. There is a cut 1A/A-311SE for example but its not clear that anything is required. Will these aluminum caps cover the top of these areas too? Please clarify.

AE

The intent is that the aluminum cap is fabricated and installed at all columns. Braced frame locations maybe capped by GWB and painted.

76 A-405EP A-604SH

Please indicate the intended flooring for elevators 6-EV6 and 6-EV7. Neither the enlarged views, nor the finish schedule indicate the intended flooring.

AE

6-EV6 flooring to match other freight elevators at MSC.

6-EV7 flooring to be laminate, color/pattern selected from Elevator Manufacturer's standard floor finishes.

Wage Scale Determination

MD20220044

1A/A-514DT

Has a wage scale determination been made for the storage rail installers, i.e.

do they fall under the CARPENTER rates?

SI Use the Carpenter rates.

78 1A/A-514DT

Our understanding is that the rail storage system has an approximately 12 week lead time. Does SI have a projected procurement schedule for the owner furnished rail, integral form channel, rail leveler/anchors, and channel covers that are contractor installed?

SI

Owner will coordinate with GC schedule for furnishing Owner-provided materials. Lead time will be confirmed with the collections storage equipment vendor, but minimum lead time is 12 weeks. The only Owner-furnished/GC installed material is the collections storage equipment rails, integral form channel, levelers/anchors and rail covers.

79 A-101FP

The only information on the dock lift outside of the specfication is the notes on A-101FP, with no details. Will any concrete work be required after the demolition/removal of the existing dock lift?

AE

There may be some patching of concrete necessary to accept the surface sealant.

80 Section 13 0340

Section 13 0340 calls out for floor flatness requirements (3.2.J), thermal breaks (3.2.K) and vapor barrier (3.2.P) at the concrete floors for the Environmental chambers, but these don't appear to be shown on the architectural and structural drawings. Please provide additional information.

AE Refer to details on A-514DT

Spec 07 13 26, Par 2.3

Spec 07 13 26, Par 2.3 calls for blindside waterproofing at the blindside or negative side of elevator pits. Details show these at the exterior face of the below grade pits. Please confirm there is no waterproofing at the interior of the elevator pits.

AE

No waterproofing is intended in the interior of the elevator pits.

Most details show foundation waterproofing extending the underside of the foundations. Detail 9A / A-512 shows waterproofing on top of the footing.

Please confirm which is the correct location.

AE

9A/A-512 is the typical condition. Except between the new construction and existing. Refer to the response to Question 30.

Spec 07 14 16, Par 1.2.A

Spec 07 14 16, Par 1.2.A calls for cold fluid applied waterproofing to be located between slab applications. Floor assembly details on Dwg A-601 do not call out which floors are to receive this waterproofing. Please clarify the location for the waterproofing and provide any termination conditions.

AE Refer to response to Question 30.

Spec 07 56 00, Par 2.5

Spec 07 56 00, Par 2.5 lists only one product for vapor retarder with no alternates. Please confirm alternate products which are compatible with the roof system are acceptable.

AE

Alternates are acceptable if the Roofing Manufacturer will warranty the product.

Alternates not acceptable to the Roofing Manufacturer are not permitted.

Spec 07 56 00, Par 2.9

Spec 07 56 00, Par 2.9 lists only one product for walkways with no alternates.

Please confirm alternate products which are compatible with the roof system are acceptable.

AE

Alternates are acceptable if the Roofing Manufacturer will warranty the product.

Alternates not acceptable to the Roofing Manufacturer are not permitted.

86 Detail 5J / A-511

Detail 5J / A-511 shows an aluminum cover covering a precast connection, but no other information is found regarding this item. Please clarify if this is continuous or segmented, installation detail, product data, and any other relevant information.

AE

Cover is required in areas where the joint is visible. The cover maybe continuous or equal segmented sections with a lap joint.

87 Detail 7A / A-422

Detail 7A / A-422 shows column enclosures on the floor plan and enlarged plans, but no enlarged detail is called out in the A-500 series drawings. The graphic symbol is different than CMU or GWB. We assume this is the wall system from the environmental chamber. Please confirm and provide an enlarged detail clarifying the requirements at these columns.

AE Refer to A-504DT for typical enlarged plan details.

88 A-604 A-604 lists FRP at Janitor's Closets. We are unable to locate any requirements for this material in the specs or the drawings. Please provide.

AE Specification will be added by future Addendum

89 Dwg A-101

Dwg A-101 calls for installation of a new dock leveler in the existing pit. No information is provided on the power and controls, nor are we able to find any information on existing electrical circuit on the electrical drawings. We assume that the existing power source is adequate for the new dock lever and can be reused. Additionally, new controls are assumed to be local and located in the same location as the current dock leveler. Please confirm.

AE

Confirmed, it is anticipated that the existing power source is adequate for the new dock lever and can be reused with local controls replacing the existing controls at the same location.

90 Dwg A-606 Sign Schedule, Dwg A-606 shows six (6) ea Type A signs, but do not have a sign number or any comments. We assume only the signs with Sign Numbers are to be included. Please confirm.

AE

All rooms scheduled and coordinated with plans A-141DG, A-142DG, and A-143DG

91 Dwg A-606 Sign Schedule, Dwg A-606 shows exterior sign (Type B) are to be aluminum.

We are unable to find the requirements for these signs in the spec. Please provide.

AE

Exterior signage is not required and will be removed from Signage Plans.

Spec 10 14 23, Par 1.2

Spec 10 14 23, Par 1.2 identifies more sign types than ones that are shown on the Sign Schedule. We assume the Sign Schedule is the only signage that is required. Please confirm.

AE Confirmed

Spec 10 14 23, Par 1.2

Spec 10 14 23, Par 1.2 and other locations in the spec reference metal bases and aluminum brackets. Detail on Dwg A-606 do not show a bracket. We assume no brackets are required. Please confirm.

AE Signs are to be installed to match the rest of MSC.

Spec 10 14 23, Par 2.2.B

Spec 10 14 23, Par 2.2.B states that color is to be from the manufacturer's full range. We assume this applies to the standard colors. Please confirm. If not, please provide the desired color for equivalent pricing from all bidders.

AE

Confirmed, it is anticipated that a standard color will match existing MSC signs.

RCPs 4A & 10D, Dwg A-424

Title for RCPs 4A & 10D, Dwg A-424 state these are for the S NGA Security Cage. We are unable to find these callouts on the RCPs. These appear to be for the S SI Security Cage. Please confirm.

AE

4A is called out on A-129CP and is 02 Level - N NGA Security Cage.

10D is called out on A-129CP and is the SI S Security Cage.

Spec 10 22 13, Par 2.5.K

Spec 10 22 13, Par 2.5.K states that color is to be from the manufacturer's full range. We assume this applies to the standard colors. Please confirm. If not, please provide the desired color for equivalent pricing from all bidders.

AE Standard colors. The intended color is gray.

Spec 10 26 00, Par 1.2

Spec 10 26 00, Par 1.2 states this spec pertains only to corner guards. There are several references in the spec to door protection. We are unable to find this in the documents and assume only corner guards are to be provided.

Please confirm.

AE 08 7100 specifies door protection as required.

A-500 series drawings

Plan Detail sheets (A-500 series drawings) indicate location for corner guards.

Many of these plan details show top of column enclosures to be 8'0" AFF.

General Note on the Finish Schedule, A-604 indicates corner guards to be to 8'0"AFF. Interior elevations show corner guards to be lower than the top of these walls / column enclosures. We assume wall height is to govern, and corner guards are to be lower than the top of wall. Please confirm and provide a detail.

AE Confirmed, corner guards per Interior Elevations.

Spec 10 28 00, Par 2.3.J

Spec 10 28 00, Par 2.3.J specifies the shower curtain; however, we are unable to find information on the shower curtain rod which is indicated in Par 1.2.

Please provide requirements.

AE

Shower curtain to be a white plastic sheet curtain with chrome finished rod.

100 9A, Dwg A-411 Detail 9A, Dwg A-411 shows a shower seat, but we are unable to find this in the specifications. Please provide the requirements.

AE The shower seat shall be standard Bobrick or equal.

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.B

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.B lists extinguishers for Ordinary Collection Storage Spaces. We assume all extinguishers which are shown on the floor plans in rooms labeled as “Collection Storage” (i.e. SI Collections Storage, NGA Non- Accessioned Collections Storage, etc) are to comply with this paragraph of the spec and all others are to comply with the extinguishers in Par 2.3.A. Please confirm.

AE

All SI and NGA Processing Rooms should be equipped with 2.3B type.

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.B

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.B requires fire extinguishers for Collection Storage spaces to be 2.5 gallon water mist type and to have a minimum UL rating of 2A:10B:C. This type of extinguisher has a UL rating of 2A:C only. Please confirm which criteria we are to comply with for the Collection Spaces.

SI Provide extinguisher with UL rating of 2A:C.

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.C

Spec 10 44 16, Par 2.3.C provides requirements for fire extinguishers in IT Spaces. None are shown on the drawings. We assume this spec paragraph is not applicable. Please confirm. If this is incorrect, please provide rooms, locations, cabinet types, etc.

SI Confirmed, fire extinguishers not necesary in IT Spaces.

Storage equipment is shown as NIC in Rms 6-1004 and 6-1025 on Dwg A-106.

There are no rails shown on these floor plans or the slab plans. We assume these are fixed storage units, and no rails or any work is required for these items. Please confirm.

AE No rails are required on 01 Level.

105 Dwg A-106

East wall of Rm 6-1025 on Dwg A-106 appears to show partitions within storage equipment space. These were added in Addendum 01. We are unable to find any further reference to these items and assume these are part of the storage equipment which is NIC. Please confirm.

AE

Confirmed, what is shown in Addendum 01 on A-106 is Storage Equipment, NIC.

106 Spec 10 56 26

Spec 10 56 26 has numerous references to material supply items such as shop drawings, material warranties, and other similar requirements. We assume these items are to be addressed and provided as part of the separate contract between the Owner and supplier. Please confirm.

SI

Owner will provide all Supplier/Vendor related items including Point of Contact Information, shop drawings, certified engineering calculations, LEED information, product & maintenance data, warranty, and other materials as required for GC to coordinate layout and installation of collections storage equipment rails. Specific GC Requirements (Spec Section 105626) include but are not limited to installation qualification data, coordination with collections storage equipment vendor, preinstallation meetings for rails and shelving units, field verifications/approvals of rail layouts, and protection of installed products from damage during the remainder of the construction period. Also refer to specific notes on project drawings.

Please consider allowing the past 7-10 years for past experience in lieu of projects completed in the last 5 years.

SI

The past experience requirement remains as written in the RFP (projects completed in the past 5 years.

108 Are projects required to be 100% complete to be used for Past Performance? SI We are looking to understand positive completion outcomes. We will review current “active” (not yet finished) projects but prefer 100% complete.

Solicitation Par B.3.2 (Pg 5 of 66)

Solicitation Par B.3.2 (Pg 5 of 66) states offerors must include termination costs in the event that subsequent year funds are not appropriated. We will be unable to determine the progress of the project when funding will be expended. We therefore assume termination costs are to include costs for demobilizing from the project. Further, we assume any and all work needed to prepare the project site for an extended period of inactivity is to be excluded.

Please confirm. If this is incorrect, please provide an allowance or defined scope of work that would be required to ensure all offerors are providing an equivalent scope.

SI Confirmed.

110 Overall Duration RFP defines schedule duration as 688 days after notice to proceed (NTP).

Please clarify if this is administrative Notice to Proceed or Notice to Proceed with Onsite work.

OCON

Contractual Notice to proceed will be issued after all contracting documents have been received and the Pre Construction Meeting has occurred.

111 Award Schedule Please confirm timing of award and issuance of Notice to Proceed. OCON Intent to Award will be announced after the evaluation has been completed.

112 Bid Bond Please confirm that a bid bond is not required with proposal, as noted on page 1 of the RFP.

OCON No Bid Bond

113 Raze Permit

Please confirm if a raze permit will be required for the greenhouse & COTR trailer demolition and removal. Please confirm if SI/NGA shall obtain the disconnect letters or shall the Contractor be responsible for that work and coordination?

SI

This is federal property under the jurisdiction of the Smithsonian Institution. A raze permit is not required. The Contractor will be responsible for all work and coordination to disconnect utilities.

114 Permit Costs Please confirm that all Building, DOEE SEC & Abatement, Occupancy and all other permit costs will be covered by the Owner and trade permit costs shall be carried by the Contractor.

SI

The Contractor is responsible for all permits and their costs. Building Permit including Certificate of Occupancy, to be issued by Smithsonian Institution at no cost to the contractor.

Existing Inverts /

Shoring

Please provide the existing invert elevation of the gas line that runs North- South along Garber, on the East side of the road. Please confirm the need for shoring along the West/Northwest portion of the building pad excavation to ensure the existing gas line, new electrical duct bank, and water line are not compromised during excavation.

AE

Test pits were not performed on the gas line. The AE team does not have elevations, however, it is assumed that the gas line is at typical buried depth, between 3' and 5' depth.

The limits for sheeting/shoring is to be determined by Contractor, based on construction sequencing and means/methods.

Existing Electrical

Service

Please confirm that the electrical ductbank work and PEPCO's primary work will need to be completed prior to deep foundation drilling along the West/Northwest side of the building pad. Please provide a rough timeline on when PEPCO will be ready to perform their scope to complete the primary and remove the overhead electric lines.

AE

Sequence of work will be as coordinated by Contractor with all disciplines. Work by PEPCO will be as coordinated by Contractor.

117 Drawing S-000CS Tests & Inspections

3rd Party Tests & Inspections - Will the general contractor be responsible to contract a 3rd party testing agency or shall all 3rd party inspections be ran through the Owner? Structural Drawing S-000CS indicates that all inspections required by local jurisdiction shall be performed by a testing agency provided by the Owner for Steel Construction, Concrete Construction, Masonry Construction, and Soils. There are additional specifications sections that imply 3rd party testing agencies (03 4500 - Precast Architectural Concrete, SI

The Contractor to be responsible for ALL third party independent testing.

118 Background Checks Please confirm any security and background checks that may be required for anyone working on the project, on the premises. If required, may a typical duration for security paperwork processing be provided?

SI

Security Background checks will only be required for the Contractor Management Personnel seeking Smithsonian Contractor IDs and Badging. Typical duration for the SI Badging Process is 6-10 weeks. NOT ALL Contractor Management Personnel will require SI Badging. At a minimum, SI anticipates the Construction Project Manager, Engineer, Superintendent and Senior Site Foreman may require SI Badging. Please note that the Contractor is responsible for badging and managing the badging process for all Contractor Personnel and Workers on the project site. This contractor-issued identification will need to be provided all employees upon demand when on the Smithsonian Suitland Campus.

Sound/Vibration

Monitoring

Please confirm that sound & vibration monitoring will be required for any collections and if those costs should be included as part of the bidder's RFP proposal response. Please provide quanitiy of sound & vibration monitors to be carried in GC's bids and duration of use.

SI

General Contractor to provide Vibration Management. SI to provide Vibration Monitoring through a third party.

120 Drawing E-108SP Ductbank Sizes for Incoming Service

Drawing E-108SP shows the extent of a new ductbank to be installed. There are cuts along the duct bank referencing a 2 way ductbank (6E/E-501DT) and a 3 way ductbank (9E/E-501DT). Please confirm the sizes have been coordinated. On the north side there are 2-2way ductbanks that merge at a box in the north west corner with 1 - 3 way ductbank coming off the box. On the south side there is a 3 way duct bank coming off a pole along Silver Hill Road. The 3 way duct bank from the south and the 3 way ductbank coming from the north merge in a box on the south east corner of the site with 1 - 2 way ductbank coming off the box and to the new utility transformers. Drawing E-302P provides a one line diagram with notes and call outs on the number of conduits within each ductbank. The notes on E-302P contradict the drawing E- 108SP and E-501DT. Please confirm which is correct.

AE

Refer to response to comment 121 for work at central utility plant. Detail 2F-302FP does not reference other plans. Ductwork for work at Pod 5 is identified on civil drawings.

Ductbank for New Fire

Pump

Drawing E-108SP shows 2 lines in the north east corner from an existing utility transformer to the fire pump. The lines are not bold like the rest of the ductbank lines on the page. There is a cut along the lines referencing 6E/E-501DT.

Please advise if this is an existing ductbank that will be utilized or if this is a new ductbank that will need to be installed.

AE

Provide 2-way concrete encased duct bank for feeder from utility transformer to fire pump as identified oin detail 2J/E- 302FP and one spare conduit. Ductbank does not replace existing duct bank from utility transformers to central utility plant.

3" Storm Drain Below

New Transformer Location

The civil site utility drawing, C-109UP, shows a 3" storm drain leaving the building on the south side that ties into storm structure I-4. There is not a profile of this piping from the building to the I-4 storm structure. The piping is shown to be installed beneath the new electrical transformers and generator area. Please advise if the utility drawings been reviewed with the electrical utility supplier.

AE

Design team will evaluate if the storm drain pipe alignment can shift out of the transformer footprint. For bidding, assume alignment as shown on C-109UP. Specification section 260200 requires Contractor to coordinate all work south of building with equipment suppliers and utility to ensure coordination.

specification section 01 7419

Salvaged Items

The specification section 01 7419 notes that…