Part II of II RFI Response.pdf

PART II RFI Response

36C10F220045

Part II RFI Response

( Please refer to Part I RFI Response included within Amendment 0008 for RFI questions 1-19. )

20. Question: Amendment 004, residence engineer's field office. It is not stated in the scope of work who is to remove the existing ramp and stairs to the existing trailer when the new platform will be installed. Please verify who is responsible for this scope.

Response: Refer to attachment "RE Field Office REV" for Specification 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.17 and attachment “RE Trailer plan REV”.

21. Question: The drawings and specs given to us are noted as "Bid Package B."They are not marked "For Construction." When will we be getting IFC drawings?

Response: The VA Dallas LTSCI Bid Package B drawings and specifications and related information as already provided on SAM.GOV are sealed and signed by the appropriate design professional and are suitable for construction. This package as posted with the SOLICITATION comprises the Issued for Construction set. (Any construction documents amended and issued to the bidders prior to receipt of proposals will be part of the construction contract at award.)

[[ The header for each page in the specifications in the upper left hand corner includes the label

"CONSTRUCTION." In the lower right hand corner of each drawing just above the title block is included the label "CONSTRUCTION." ]]

22. Question: The Geotech report supplied in the RFP states:

5.0 GENERAL COMMENTS

Terracon should be retained to review the final design plans and specifications so comments can be made regarding interpretation and implementation of our geotechnical recommendations in the design and specifications. Terracon also should be retained to provide observation and …

Can we get confirmation that Terragon did do a review on Bid Package B structural drawings.

Response: The structural design provided in the current structural documents accounts for Page's understanding of the requirements and recommendations within the Geotechnical report by Terracon and also by its amendments where appropriate to this current project. The current structural package has not been reviewed by Terracon. [[ When changes to scope or project structural approach were contemplated by the design team (for such items that differed from previous communication with

Terracon) such items were brought to the attention of Terracon and where appropriate, amendments to the previous report(s) were provided by Terracon. There are two such “amendment” reports included within the Supplemental Information book. ]]

23. Question: In section C, 1.5.B.1 states:

Is this badge from the Hospital? Is there a cost associated with getting the badging? Or is this badge from the General Contractor?

Response: All contractors & subcontractors are required to wear badges. There is a cost for badges that are not returned to the VA at the completion of the project. Refer to Solicitation page 29 of 105 SECTION 01 00 00 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS paragraph 1.5 B.1.: To the end of this paragraph add "a. Station shall provide badges with numbers only to the general contractor for distribution to all employees of general contractor and subcontractors. The contractor shall track who has which badge # & maintain this throughout the job. All contractor & subcontractor employees shall wear this badge while on campus. Contractor shall return all badges to the Resident Engineer at the final custody. A fine of $200 per badge shall be assessed for each badge that is not returned."

24. Question: During the Pre-proposal Conference, there was a map shown where the GC lay-down yard could be placed. This isn't shown in the drawings. Can that map be sent to us please?

Response: The approximate location of the laydown yard is indicated in the following:

83-GS-001 GENERAL CAMPUS PHASING PLAN; and also on drawing

83-AS-102 ARCHITECTURAL - OVERALL LTSCI SITE PLAN.

These drawings were included among the documents posted on SAM.GOV with the SOLICITATION documents on 04/26/2023. (The "map" drawing that was shared on the screen during the discussion for the Pre-Proposal meeting was 83-GS-001.)

25. Question: Amendment 004, 1.17, A states to provide for approval Government Field Office submittals within 7 days of award.1.17.D Requests we connect the new field office with a platform to the existing VA office.

1. Please verify which existing VA office (A or B) is the one we are connecting to. See photo below.

2. Please verify that the requested canopy is to go over the existing VA office door and the new trailer door.

3. Please verify that one ramp is required and that it will go to the platform.

4. Please verify that the 2nd door of the new trailer will only require stairs.

5. Please verify that janitoral services are only for the new office and not the existing.

6. Please provide contact info for current alarm system contractor.These answers will help us be ready to have the Government trailer submittals ready within 7 days of award.

Response: Please refer to attachments "RE trailer plan REV" and "RE Field Office REV" Response to question 1: A.

Response to question 2: Yes canopy shall cover existing & new entrances.

Response to question 3: Yes, one ramp which shall go to the platform.

Response to question 4: Yes the alternate egress to the trailer Response to question 5: Janitorial service shall support the entire RE office including both the new & existing trailers.

Response to question 6: The current alarm system is "Gemni GEMP 9600".

Also, refer to attachment "RE Field Office REV" for Specification 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.17.

26. Question: Amendment 004, section 1.17,B The Contractor shall, within fifteen (60) days after receipt of Notice to Proceed, provide where shown on the drawings the new RE field office ready for use. Office and furniture shall be new.

Please verify is 15 days or 60 days.

Response: Refer to attachment "RE Field Office REV" for Specification 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.17 and attachment “RE trailer plan REV”.

27. Question: Section 27 52 23 - Nurse Call and Code Blue Systems: The current nurse call system has full featured graphical patient stations. Would you like us to match that same design in this area for standardization?

Response: Yes, match existing system and existing features with that provided in existing SCI Building 74.

28. Question: Section 27 52 23 page 28- Nurse Call and Code Blue Systems: The document talks about Staff Location Interface. It's not clear on whether or not we need to quote Staff Locating. does the VA have an RTLS system in place for this area? Or are we supposed to quote Staff Locating for this project as well? We are compatible but not sure if that is being asked for?

Response: Per the specification, system must be capable of locating both Nurses and Staff and thus the quote should include these services/functionality. This is new construction and thus there are not any existing systems for this area of the project.

29. Question: Discipline: Existing Conditions

Confirm the Owner will be considered as the generator of all pre-existing hazardous materials and sign all transportation manifests

Response: For any hazmat, the VA is the owner & therefore is considered the generator. It should be emphasized however, that reports suggest there is no expectation of encounter with hazmat.

30. Question: Discipline: Contracting: If a catastrophic event occurs during the project and prior to custody transfer, please confirm who is responsible to replace the building.

Response: See FAR 52.236-7

31. Question: Discipline Contracting: The small business percentage appears to be unachievable. This is an extremely unique line of patient care, involving several specialty subcontractors necessary to construct. Many of these contractors are not small business. Additionally, there are sole sourced vendors that are OTSB. This has a significant impact on our ability to achieve such a high %. Recent VA projects have had small business goals at 10% to account for items such as this. Our market research indicates this number would be more achievable. Please revise small business goals to ensure the highest number of proposals will be received on this project.

Response: VA Socioeconomic goals remain unchanged.

32. Question: Discipline: Concrete

Drawing/Spec: 03 30 00 - 3.5A

Please confirm that the 80ft pour limit will not apply to this project.

Response: The pour limit applies per VA specifications as already referenced above.

33. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 14 20 00

Please confirm that all elevator frames should be radiused and that all elevator frames need to be grouted.

Response: Elevator frames (service and passenger) shall be radiused in accordance with specification section 142100 including but not limited to instructions in 142100-2.47E and where addressed in other specifications and/or within the drawings.

Elevator sills (service and passenger) shall be grouted in accordance with specification section 142100 including but not limited to instructions in 142100-2.47B and where addressed in other specifications and/or within the drawings.

Elevator jambs (service and passenger) shall be grouted in accordance with specification section

142100 including but not limited to the instructions in 142100-2.47E and where addressed in other specifications and/or within the drawings.

34. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 08 Door Hardware

Please confirm that cylindrical lock sets are allowed per spec.

Response: Per spec and VA Program Guide PG 18-14, cylinders are acceptable.

35. Question: Drawing/Spec Section 23 00 00: Please confirm that 100% ductwork shall be cleaned prior to turnover.

Response: Ductwork shall be cleaned both inside and outside prior to insulation or painting as indicated in specification section 23 31 00-3.1-K.

36. Question: Drawing/Spec: 36C10F22R0045 Page 42 of 105 - 1.21 Temporary Toilets "A.Provide where directed, (for use of all Contractor’s workers) ample temporary sanitary toilet accommodations with suitable sewer and water connections; or, when approved by Resident Engineer, provide suitable dry closets where directed. Keep such places clean and free from flies, and all connections and appliances connected therewith are to be removed prior to completion of contract, and premises left perfectly clean. " Request to change wording of "left perfectly clean" to "left in the condition they were in prior to use.”

Response: VA It should noted that the temporary toilets themselves should be brought on site perfectly clean & maintained perfectly clean. Revise text of GR section 1.21 as follows:

"1.21 TEMPORARY TOILETS

A. Provide where directed, (for use of all Contractor's workers) ample temporary sanitary toilet accommodations with suitable sewer and water connections; or, when approved by Resident

Engineer, provide suitable dry closets where directed. Keep such places clean and free from flies, and all connections and appliances connected therewith are to be removed prior to completion of contract, and premises left in condition as it was when the area was site was turned over to contractor ."

37. Question: Drawing/Spec: 36C10F22R0045 Page 41 of 105 - 1.18 Temporary Use of Mechanical and

Electrical Equipment: RFP states "All components of heat production and distribution system, metering equipment, condensate returns, and other auxiliary facilities used in temporary service shall be cleaned prior to use; maintained to prevent corrosion internally and externally during use; and cleaned, maintained and inspected prior to acceptance by the Government. Boilers, pumps, feedwater heaters and auxiliary equipment must be operated as a complete system and be fully maintained by operating personnel. Boiler water must be given complete and continuous chemical treatment." Please confirm that we do not need to mechanically clean new air ducts that were used in completing the project, if return ducts are not used.

Response: The ducts should be cleaned as indicated in the specs. Refer to 23 05 11 paragraph

1.6A & 23 31 00 3.1K. (There may be other sections which also refer to cleaning & also there may be reference to cleaning in standards cited in specs.)

38. Question: Please publish the Rules of the Station/Medical Center for all shutdowns and describe in detail the shut down processes for each system.

Response: GR Section 1.6 addresses shutdowns.

39. Question: Please confirm that all testing has been performed for asbestos and lead paint for all work at the connection to existing and that all results have been communicated in the RFP/contract documents.

Response: Yes, for all accessible areas. The ACM (Asbestos Containing Materials) report for building 74 has been recently posted at SAM.gov along with Amendment 0011 for insertion as TAB D within the Supplemental Information book previously posted. GR Section 1.6 addresses shutdowns.

There is no known lead based paint in the area of building 74 that is anticipated will be disturbed as part of this contract. (Also, refer to responses for items 91 and 131.)

40. Question: Please confirm that the calendar day duration included in the RFP is from NTP to substantial completion.

Response: Duration is in calendar days from NTP to substantial completion.

41. Question: Please confirm that the VA has provided with this solicitation all existing utility information and that the documents provided are accurate.

Response: The utility information included within the construction documents is believed to be accurate to the best of our knowledge. Contractor shall verify with RE office before starting work in each area.

42. Question: Please confirm that the VA will provide utility locate services on the VA campus.

Response: The VA will not provide a utility locator service.

43. Question: Please confirm that the PVA has reviewed the contract documents and that all changes resulting from those reviews are incorporated in the documents.

Response: All appropriate parties have been given the opportunity to review & comment on the documents.

44. Question: Please provide a comprehensive list of permits needed for the project.

Response: The contractor is required to determine which permits are required for each individual construction activity & obtain them.

45. Question: Please confirm that BIM is not required on this project.

Response: Refer to GR section of solicitation paragraph 1.14C: Replace with:

C. Contractor shall deliver two approved completed sets of as-built drawings in the electronic version (autocad) to the Resident Engineer within 15 calendar days after each completed phase and after the acceptance of the project by the Resident Engineer.

46. Question: Please confirm who the Safety authority is onsite. Federal OSHA?

Response: For the VA, the on-site authority is the SRE (but must respect the limitations as a COR.

Refer to VAAR 852.223-71* Safety and Health clause in the solicitation for additional Safety information including authority.

47. Question: If conflicts occur between Division 00/Division 01 specs and individual trade specs (2-33), which specification will govern?

Response: The most stringent specification shall apply. All such conflicts shall be brought to the attention of the resident engineer after award.

48. Question: Please provide coordinated shutdown notice provisions - will the specified duration apply or will the MC require more stringent requirements after award? Please provide a coordinated response prior to the proposal due date.

Response: Refer to GR section of solicitation section 1.6.

49. Question: Please confirm who the Fire authority is for the project. If central office, please confirm that no coordination is needed with local fire department.

Response: The Authority Having Jurisdiction for fire protection is the VA. For any construction contractor designs, please reference VA specs and VA’s Fire Protection Design Manual. VA will review designs, shop drawings or other submittals. Contractor may elect to coordinate with Dallas

Fire Department when developing their construction accident prevention plan and associated elements (to facilitate response and rescue at the construction site during construction operations).

50. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 09 29 00 - 3.1 Gypsum Board Heights

Spec 09 29 00 states "3.1 GYPSUM BOARD HEIGHTS

A. Extend all layers of gypsum board from floor to underside of structure overhead on following partitions and furring:

1. Two sides of partitions:

a. Fire rated partitions.

b. Smoke partitions.

c. Sound rated partitions.

d. Full height partitions shown (FHP).

e. Other locations detailed.

2. One side of partitions or furring:

a. Inside of exterior wall furring or stud construction.

b. Room side of room without suspended ceilings.

c. Furring for pipes and duct shafts, except where fire rated shaft wall construction is shown.

3. Extend all layers of gypsum board construction used for fireproofing of columns from floor to underside of structure overhead, unless shown otherwise.

B. In locations other than those specified, extend gypsum board from floor to heights as follows:

1. Not less than 100 mm (4 inches) above suspended acoustical ceilings.

2. At ceiling of suspended gypsum board ceilings.

3. At existing ceilings."

Please confirm this clause is fully coordinated with wall type drawings and head of wall details or revised drawings to match.

Response: Refer to information provided in in the documents including but not limited to the following drawings 83-A-601, 83-A-611, 83-A-612 and 83-A-613 and related information within the specifications.

51. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 09 29 00

09 29 00 states "8. Control Joints ASTM C840 and as follows: a. Locate at both side jambs of openings if gypsum board is not "yoked". Use one system throughout." it also goes on to state that joints should be installed per drawings. Please confirm that drawings are fully coordinated with this specification or adjust the drawings and specifications to become coordinated. Please confirm that "yoked" openings are not a requirement on this project.

Response: Confirmed that yoked openings are not a requirement on this project. The references to yoked openings have been removed from specification 09 29 00 and this change specification is included with ADDEDNDUM 02. Provide control joints per ASTM C840. Refer to detail D2 on drawing

83-A-611 for explanation of control joints at door framing. Also refer to additional information provided in the following drawings 83-A-601, 83-A-611, 83-A-612 and 83-A-613 and related information within the specifications.

52. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 09 29 00

09 29 00 reads "I. Electrical and Telecommunications Boxes:

1. Seal annular spaces between electrical and telecommunications receptacle boxes and gypsum board partitions."

Please confirm putty pads are not needed or amend RFP documents as needed to be coordinated.

Response: Provide and seal the space around and between such boxes in accordance with NFPA, NEC and all applicable codes as per specific locations and in accordance with ratings of partitions.

53. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 09 29 00

09 29 00 states "C. Finish gypsum board in accordance with levels defined in

ASTM C 840, as follows:

1. Level 4: Walls and ceilings to receive paint finish or wall coverings, unless otherwise indicated.

2. Level 5: Walls and ceilings to receive semi-gloss or gloss paint finish and other areas specifically indicated. 3.

Level 3: Walls to receive textured wall finish.

4. Level 2: In utility areas, behind cabinetry, and on backing board to receive tile finish.

5. Level 1: Fire rated wall areas above finished ceilings, whether or not accessible in the completed construction.

6. Level 0: Temporary partitions and surfaces indicated to be finished in later stage of project.

D. Finish gypsum board in scheduled areas in accordance with levels defined in ASTM C 840.

1. Above Finished Ceilings Concealed From View: Level 1.

2. Utility Areas and Areas Behind Cabinetry: Level 2.

3. Walls and Ceilings to Receive Flat or Eggshell Paint Finish:

Level 4.

4. Walls and ceilings subject to severe light conditions or walls scheduled for "chalkboard paint": Level 5."

This specification is very ambiguous and will lead to interpretation related issues. Please provide clear direction and or provide a drywall finish plan showing what finishes are needed where. For instance, what areas of the building are "subject to severe light conditions"? Is this anywhere near a light fixture, or is this at a lobby? Or is this anywhere natural light can reach?

Please revised documents for clarity.

Response: The statement 092900-3.5-D-4 is deleted from the specification. The revised specification section 09 29 00 is included with ADDENDUM 2.

54. Question: Please allow three ring binders in lieu of spiral bound hard copies.

Response: Please follow directions provided in the solicitation C. Part III Submission Requirements-

Proposal Instructions, item C3. Technical Proposal Requirements.

55. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 03 30 00 - 1.1T

Specification calls for MVE sealer. Please confirm that no other moisture mitigation system is needed on the project with the exception of this product. Normally, TIL spec 09 05 16 subsurface preparation for floor finishes is used in lieu of MVE.

Response: Question is too broad, vapor retarders are another mitigating system that is still required.

56. Question: Discipline: Structural Framing

Drawing/Spec Section: 05 12 00

Please advise if the AISC certification for fabricators/erectors can be waived if that firm follows the AISC guidelines even though they are not certified.

Response: The noted requirement will not be waived.

57. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 01 33 23

Amendment 4 states "SPECIFICATION 01 33 23, paragraph 1.10.D, is changed from 'VA review period is 15 working days for submittal' to 'VA review period is no less than 20 working days for submittal.'"

Please confirm this means that contractors can rely on 20 days as the duration for submittal - OR provide a duration that does include a minimum. As written, the VA could take 50 or 100 days for a submittal review, which is not reasonable.

Please provide a fixed duration that be used in the execution of the contract.

Response: Amendment 4 which references SPECIFICATION 01 33 23, paragraph 1.10.D shall be changed to indicate 'VA review period is no more than 20 working days for submittal.'

58. Question: Given the tight turnaround time on this proposal, please confirm the offeror can include previously submitted PPQ for the relevant projects

Response: No. PPQ must be related to this project.

59. Question: Discipline: Fuel

Drawing/Spec: 83-PP-406

Drawing 83-PP-406 shows the 12,000 gallon fuel oil tank and provides details for installation. Please clarify if filling of this

12,000 gallon tank will be part of the contract or by the owner after installation.

Response: Fuel provisions by contractor will be as stated in construction documents (drawings and specifications) including but not limited to what is specifically stated in specifications 263213-3.2C, 263213-3.2I and 263213-3.2L.

60. Question: Discipline: Plumbing

Drawing/Spec: 22 13 00

Spec 22 13 00 subsection 2.1.A. states that all interior sanitary waste, drain, and vent above grade shall be cast iron. PVC piping is discussed in subsection 2.1.C. Please confirm that all waste and vent piping above grade inside the building shall be cast iron and not PVC.

Response: Confirmed. All waste and vent piping above grade inside the building shall be cast iron.

61. Question: Discipline: Plumbing

Drawing/Spec: 22 14 00

Spec 22 14 00 subsection 2.1.A. states that all interior storm above grade shall be cast iron. PVC piping is discussed in subsection 2.1.C. Please confirm that all storm piping above grade inside the building shall be cast iron and not PVC.

Response: Confirmed. All waste and vent piping above grade inside the building shall be cast iron.

62. Question: Discipline: Mechanical and Electrical

Drawing/Spec: 83 LTSCI MES document

The document titled "83 LTSCI MES" includes cutsheets for numerous owner furnished pieces of equipment. The cutsheets for each item outlines the utility and technology requirements for the piece of equipment. Please provide a schedule of connections for this equipment or clarify that these connections will not be included in this contract.

Response: The utility and technology provisions (including connections) for the various equipment items are indicated within the MES and/or within the construction documents (drawings and specifications) at appropriate locations within the construction documents by the various related disciplines. Coordination of all such requirements and provisions is to be provided by the General

Contractor.

63. Question: Discipline: Electrical

Drawing/Spec: 83-E-501 & 83-E-701

The primary feeders shown on 83-E-501 are sized at 3 -1/0 and 1 -#2G in 4" conduit. However the primary feeders scheduled on 83-E-701 are sized at 3-250kcm and 1#2G in 5" conduit. Please confirm the conductor size and conduit size.

Response: 3-250kcm and 1#2G in 5” conduit will be used as stated on sheet 83-E-701.

64. Question: Discipline: Electrical

Drawing/Spec: 83-E-708 detail F5

Please confirm that there are conduits stubbed out of existing Switch PS-82 and existing Switch PS-83, for new primary duct bank to connect to.

Response: In reviewing the RECORD Documents from the LTSCI GARAGE project, it indicates that 5” conduits exist which stub out below these switches PS-82 and PS-83. These conduits proceed below the vehicle ramp (at the garage entry) and come out on the other side. For BIDDING PURPOSES assume that these conduits exist in the approximate location indicated below.

65. Question: Discipline: General Requirements Drawing/Spec Section: 01 00 00

In Amendment #4, the revision to 1.17 RESIDENT ENGINEERS (RE) FIELD, indicates in 1.17 B. that, The contractor shall, within 15 (60) days after receipt of Notice to Proceed, provide where shown on the drawings the new RE field office ready for use. Office and furniture shall me new. Please confirm the correct duration after NTP as it is indicated as both 15 and 60 days. Additionally, in the current marketplace new trailers, as requested, have a 6-9 month lead time to be delivered to the project site from approved layout. Used trailers are falling in the 2-3 month time frame from approved layout. Please indicate that either the duration for new trailers is acceptable or if used trailers will be acceptable based on the durations indicated above.

Response: Refer to attachment "RE Field Office REV” for Specification 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.17 and refer attachment “RE trailer plan REV”.

66. Question: Discipline: Quality Control

Drawing/Spec Section: 01 45 00 Specification 01 45 00 states " These individuals can be employees of the prime or subcontractor can perform other duties but need to be allowed sufficient time to perform the specialized personnel’s assigned quality controls duties as described in the CQC Plan. Refer to the chart below for required qualifications." This sentence does not appear to be correct.

Should this have read " These individuals can be employees of the prime or of a subcontractor. These employees can perform other duties but need to be allowed sufficient time to perform the specialized personnel’s assigned quality controls duties as described in the CQC Plan. Refer to the chart below for required qualifications. Please revise the statement to provide clear direction on this topic.

Response: In reference to specification section 01 45 00:

Section 1.3 paragraph C shall be revised to:

“CQC Personnel: In addition to CQC personnel specified elsewhere in the contract, provide as part of the CQC organization, specialized personnel to assist in the CQC System Manager for the following areas, as applicable: civil, electrical, mechanical, structural, environmental, architectural, materials technician, submittals clerk, Contractor's Commissioning Agent, LEED specialist, and low voltage systems. These individuals can be employees of the prime or subcontractor. These individuals can perform other duties but need to be allowed sufficient time to perform the specialized personnel’s assigned quality controls duties as described in the CQC Plan. Refer to the chart below for required qualifications.”

Refer to chart in attachment labeled “01 45 00 chart”. This chart replaces the one within the specification.

“For the Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural , Architectural, Environmental if individual has a degree in these particular individual fields, 2 years of construction experience is acceptable.”

67. Question: Discipline: Quality Control Drawing/Spec Section: 01 45 00 Chart in 01 45 00 states "For the Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, Architectural, and Environmental if individual has a degree in these particular individual fields, 2 years of construction experience is acceptable - But this area of the chart aligns with Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Structural, and Architectural. Should this have aligned with Environmental but not Civil? Should Civil have been included in the group that can be reduced from 5 years to 2 years if they have a degree?

Response: Refer to chart in attachment labeled “01 45 00 chart”. This chart replaces the one within the specification.

68. Question: Discipline: Quality Control Drawing/Spec Section: 01 45 00 01 45 00 - 1.3 E states " Maintain the CQC staff at full strength at all times". Please confirm that full strength means all people listed and that all times means entire contract duration, so that together this shall mean that the contractor should carry 9 people for the entire duration of the project 1) Civil

2) Mechanical 3) Electrical 4)Structural 5) Architectural 6) Environmental 7) Submittal 8) Concrete, Pavement, Soils 9) TAB OR revise the RFP requirements to be more clear.

Response: The following statement is excerpted from 01 45 00 - 1.3 E: " Maintain the CQC staff at full strength at all times". This statement is referring to the CQC staff as indicated in 01 45 00 - 1.3 A.

It does not pertain to assisting personnel as listed in 01 45 00 - 1.3C. Also refer to chart in attachment labeled “01 45 00 chart”. This chart replaces the one within the specification.

69. Question: Discipline RFI’s: We need more time to review the contract documents. Please extend the RFI window to afford the government the best value on the project.

Response: See Amendment 0007, 0009 & 0010 correction to 0007.

70. Question: Discipline: Delegated Design Spec Section: 01 91 00 Page 247 of 857, section 01 91 00 p.42 mentions "Basis of System Design, Operational Requirements, and Criteria: Include the following:

System, subsystem, and equipment descriptions. Performance and design criteria if Contractor is delegated design responsibility. Please confirm that the Contractor is not the Designer of Record and that there is no Delegated Design on this project. Please amend the specifications.

Response: There are a number of areas where Delegated Design is to be provided by the General Contractor. Such items include certain provisions determined by the General Contractor related to means and methods, but also to a number of items/systems as indicated and or implied within the construction documents (drawings and specifications.)

No comprehensive list of such Delegated Design items/systems will be provided. However, in addition to that stated above such delegated design items/systems include but are not limited to the following:

fire protection, fire alarm, public safety DAS, lightning protection, blast provisions (including but not limited to: Precast, Cold Formed Metal Framing, Metal Wall Panel Systems, Sliding Automatic Entrances, Glazing and Louvers), radiation protection, metal building systems, unit masonry, unitized metal framing systems, certain seismic restraint provisions, cold formed metal framing, metal fabrications, sliding glass doors, metal stairs, decorative metal railings, structural support for ceiling mounted patient lift system, certain structural support provisions for equipment, certain duct piping hangers and supports, control valve sizing, shop drawings for coordination of and between trades, and other items as well.

Coordination and provisions for all Delegated Design requirements are to be provided by the General Contractor.

71. Question: Discipline: Delegated Design If there is any Delegated Design on the project, provide a comprehensive list of all items that are delegated. Clearly include what is being delegated in each item description.

Response: There are a number of areas where Delegated Design is to be provided by the General Contractor. Such items include certain provisions determined by the General Contractor related to means and methods, but also to a number of items/systems as indicated and or implied within the construction documents (drawings and specifications.)

No comprehensive list of such Delegated Design items/systems will be provided. Refer to the response provided to question #070 for a partial list of such items/systems.

Coordination and provisions for all Delegated Design requirements is to be provided by the General Contractor.

72. Question: Discipline: Precast

Spec Section: 09 06 00

Specification 09 06 00 lists Gate Precast sample numbers for Panel Type finishes. Gate is a single precast manufacturer. Please provide an architect listed mix design, or a PCI color number for

Precast Panel Types A, B, and C.

Response: Precast colors are to match the existing LTSCI garage colors. Please see images and notes below with excerpts from specification section 090600 Schedule of Finishes.

73. Question: Discipline: Schedule

Page 59 of 105 of the solicitation states " (b) The Contractor shall submit a schedule of costs in accordance with the requirements of section ‘‘Network Analysis System—Critical Path Method (NAS–

CPM)’’ to the Contracting Officer for approval within 90 calendar days after date of receipt of notice to proceed. The approved cost schedule will be one of the bases for determining progress payments to the Contractor for work completed." Please confirm the schedule is due within 90 days from NTP.

Response: The cost loaded schedule is due within 90 days from NTP. The baseline schedule is due

45 days after NTP.

74. Question: Discipline: Site Furnishing

Drawing: F8/83-AS-403 Detail F8 on sheet 83-AS-403 notes to coordinate with the water fountain manufacturer for the water fountain supply details. The landscape drawings do not list the water fountain manufacturer. Please provide the water fountain manufacturer.

Response: Please refer construction documents provisions for the basis of design water fountain items including but not limited to items listed in specification section 32 90 00. ( Including to refer specifically to 329000-2.15P, 329000-2.15Q, 329000-2.15R and 329000-2.15S. )

75. Question: Discipline: Contracting

Page 91 of 105 " (c)(1) Overhead and Contractor's fee percentages shall be considered to include insurance other than mentioned herein, field and office supervisors and assistants, security police, use of small tools, incidental job burdens, and general home office expenses and no separate allowance will be made. Assistants to office supervisors include all clerical, stenographic and general office help. Incidental job burdens include, but are not necessarily limited to, office equipment and supplies, temporary toilets, telephone and conformance to OSHA requirements. Items such as, but not necessarily limited to, review and coordination, estimating and expediting relative to contract changes are associated with field and office supervision and are considered to be included in the

Contractor's overhead and/or fee percentage The Overhead and Fee percentages listed do not cover the costs that are mentioned as included. FOOH and HOOH, as well as job related direct costs like security guards, tools, toilets, etc need to be charged as cost items. Please revise the RFP to allow for fair and equitable reimbursement of these costs.

Response: See 852.243-70 in its entirety for changes costing greater than, and less than $500K.

Also, refer to 852.243-70 (b) (1) and (c )(1)

The clause applicable to the change would be dependent on the circumstances presented for the change.

76. Question: Please provide documentation on Archaeological studies done on the project.

Response: No new archaeological studies were required nor have been performed within the areas of scope for the current LTSCI project.

Refer to the Environmental Assessment, dated July 12, 2022 (included within the Supplemental

Information manual for this project) for additional information concerning archaeological studies pertinent for the Dallas VA Medical Center campus (pages 19-20; 60-61). Please note in Appendix C of the EA, the Programmatic Agreement executed June 2, 2022, which has required processes for post-review discoveries (Stipulation IV) and treatment of human remains (Stipulation V) should either be encountered during ground disturbing activities.

77. Question: Discipline: DFH

Spec Section: 08 11 13

2.3 C - States "C. Terminated Stops: SDI A250.8" with no other information. Please advise if terminated stops required on all frames, some frames, or no frames.

Response: Retain terminated stops at patient areas and locations where cleaning may be critical.

150 mm (6 inch) maximum cut off is allowed for label doors.

78. Question: Discipline: DFH

Spec Section: 08 11 13 Specification states "D. Provide floor stops (Type L02141 or L02161 in office areas; Type L02121 x 3 screws into floor elsewhere. Wall bumpers, where used, must be installed to impact the trim or the door within the leading half of its width. Floor stops, where used, must be installed within 4-inches of the wall face and impact the door within the leading half of its width.

E. Where drywall partitions occur, use floor stops, Type L02141 or L02161 in office areas, Type

L02121 elsewhere." Later in the hardware sets, for example in Sets SH02.1, SH02.2 and SH03.0, (just examples not a full list), wall stops are prescribed. Please advise if floor stops or wall stops are to be used on the project and revised specification accordingly.

Response: Instead of section 08 11 13 as listed in question refer to full text of Specification 08 71 00

2.6 including but not limited to the following :

B. Provide door stops wherever an opened door or any item of hardware thereon would strike a wall, column, equipment or other parts of building construction. For concrete, masonry or quarry tile construction, use lead expansion shields for mounting door stops.

C. Where cylindrical locks with turn pieces or pushbuttons occur, equip wall bumpers Type L02251 (rubber pads having concave face) to receive turn piece or button.

D. Provide floor stops (Type L02141 or L02161 in office areas; Type L02121 x 3 screws into floor elsewhere. Wall bumpers, where used, must be installed to impact the trim or the door within the leading half of its width. Floor stops, where used, must be installed within 4-inches of the wall face and impact the door within the leading half of its width.

E. Where drywall partitions occur, use floor stops, Type L02141 or L02161 in office areas, Type L02121 elsewhere.

F. Provide stop Type L02011, as applicable for exterior doors. At outswing doors where stop can be installed in concrete, provide stop mated to concrete anchor set in 76mm (3-inch) core-drilled hole and filled with quick-setting cement.

G. Omit stops where floor mounted door holders are required and where automatic operated doors occur.

H. Provide appropriate roller bumper for each set of doors (except where closet doors occur) where two doors would interfere with each other in swinging.

I. Provide appropriate door mounted stop on doors in individual toilets where floor or wall mounted stops cannot be used.

J. Provide overhead surface applied stop Type C02541, ANSI A156.8 on patient toilet doors in bedrooms where toilet door could come in contact with the bedroom door.

K. Provide door stops on doors where combination closer magnetic holders are specified, except where wall stops cannot be used or where floor stops cannot be installed within 4-inches of the wall.

L. Where the specified wall or floor stop cannot be used, provide concealed overhead stops (surface-mounted where concealed cannot be used).

79. Question: Discipline: DFH

Spec Section: 08 11 13

2.3 Metal Frames calls for "2. Frames for exterior doors: Fabricate from 1.7 mm (0.067 inch) thick galvanized steel conforming to ASTM A525". Please confirm that this is correct, and that galvanized frames are to be provided on this project, or revise the specification.

Response: The ASTM A525 standard referenced is incorrect and should be ASTM A653, however the steel sheet is correct, 0.067", galvanized. The revised specification 08 11 13 is included with

ADDENDUM 02.

80. Question: Discipline: Paint

Spec Section: 09 91 00

Please confirm grouted door frames should receive a bituminous coating per 08 11 13 C2.

Response: Confirmed. All steel frames scheduled to be grouted are to get a coat of bituminous.

81. Question: Discipline: Paint

Spec Section: 09 91 00

"F. Finish painting of mechanical and electrical equipment is not required when located in interstitial spaces, above suspended ceilings, in concealed areas such as pipe and electric closets, pipe basements, pipe tunnels, trenches, attics, roof spaces, shafts and furred spaces except on electrical conduit containing feeders 600 volts or more." Section 3.11 is called Identity Painting Schedule and states "A. Identify designated service in accordance with ASME A13.1, unless specified otherwise, on exposed piping, piping above removable ceilings, piping in accessible pipe spaces, interstitial spaces, and piping being access panels." It also states "1. Legend may be identified using 2.1 G options or by stencil applications" but section 2.1 G in this spec is about G. Non-Cementitious Galvanized

Primer: MPI 135. Please confirm that field painting of all MEP systems is not required.

Response: The HVAC equipment located in mechanical penthouses and mechanical rooms is not excluded and will be required to be painted to match VA standards. Colors for such items shall be in accordance with 099100-3.9-H.

Also, ASME A13.1 is to be conformed to with regard to piping and conduit. The reference to 2.1G should read 2.1A and is as follows:

A. Identity markers options:

1. Pressure sensitive vinyl markers.

2. Snap-on coil plastic markers.

3. Paint.

These (above) are the alternate methods of identification allowed by ASME A13.1

82. Question: Discipline: Paint

Spec Section: 09 91 00 Table in 3.11 has formatting issues and appears not to align. Column headings are not in line with content below headings. Please reissue table with lines noting the cell boundaries for ease of use and to avoid misunderstandings later.

Response: The referenced chart is better comprehended when you understand that the column for

“COLOR OF EXPOSED PIPING” only has colors indicated in four rows and these colors named in the chart are in alignment with the column title above. The information for the other columns is consistent with the column labels above them. The chart will not be reformatted nor amended at this time.

83. Question: Discipline: Patient Lifts

Spec Section: 11 73 00 11 73 00 States "B. For all ceiling mounted patient lift locations (Equipment Item A1200), the GC is responsible for providing and coordinating all lift provisions to occur above the finished ceiling for each of these lift locations (i.e. structural support provisions, electrical needs, etc.), track dimensioned locations and configurations, and coordination of all other above-ceiling lift provisions with NON-LIFT above-ceiling provisions, as well as with other finished ceiling mounted items."

Please confirm that the contractor is only to carry supports for the lift rails and that any trapezes, additional supports that are needed later on the project will be handled via change order.

Response: No, the statement specifically says for the GC to coordinate all above-ceiling lift and

NON-LIFT provisions. Also, specification 11 73 00 addresses the scope of work required to support a complete patient lift system. Any requirement for future work is not included and will be addressed at the time of need.

84. Question: Discipline: Patient Lifts

Spec Section: 11 73 00

Please confirm that all patient lift work has been coordinated with the overall design.

Response: Refer to Question 83 Response: "The statement specifically says for the GC to coordinate all above-ceiling lift and NON-LIFT provisions." Field coordination is the responsibility of the Contractor directing the work of these documents.

85. Question: Discipline: Patient Lifts

Spec Section: 11 73 00 Please confirm that no power is needed at the patient lift docking station for charging. If power is provided, please provide means for a disconnect per code.

Response: Patient Lift plugs into a ceiling receptacle. Unplugging it is the disconnect.

86. Question: Discipline: Patient Lifts

Spec Section: 11 73 00 It appears that no provisions have been included for the patient room patient lift to connect to the patient bathroom patient lift. The sliding doors have no provision for a track to pass through the opening. Please confirm this is correct.

Response: This is correct. [[ There is no intent to connect the ceiling lift track system within the bathroom to the ceiling lift track system within the resident living/sleeping area. ]]

87. Question: Discipline: Contracting

Please confirm that the prime contractor only has to provide a 1 year construction warranty. Any warranties beyond the 1 year construction warranty are manufacturer warranties.

Response: See section 01 00 00 General Requirements, Item 1.15 Warranty management, and FAR

52.246-21.

88. Question: Discipline: Contracting

The RFP states ""The Performance Bond must remain effective throughout the construction and warranty period."" Please confirm this only applies to the one year construction warranty and not manufacturer's warranties.

Response: See section 01 00 00 General Requirements, Item 1.15 Warranty management. IAW

FAR 52.246-21, performance bond shall remain effective throughout the warranty period stated in paragraph b. See FAR 52.246-21 in its entirety.

89. Question:

Discipline: Ceramic Tile

Spec Section: 09 30 13

09 30 31 states "5. Trim shapes, bullnose cap and cove including bullnose cap and base pieces at internal and external corners of vertical surfaces, each type, color, and size." All of the tiles specified do not have these shapes. Please revise specification.

Response: The cited passage refers to samples to be provided and samples of pieces that are not in production are not required. That specification will remain as written. As indicated, we would expect an extruded aluminum trim product, Schluter or similar, at all outside edges.

90. Question: Discipline: Justification & Approval

Please publish the dollar values for the Justification & Approval scopes of work.

Response: The requested information was relevant for internal Government decision making.

Government is not providing quote or firm price information as part of solicitation for bidders to include in the offers. Offerors shall independently obtain pricing from the required source and include in their proposals.

91. Question: Has asbestos testing been completed for Building 74? If yes, please provide report.

Response: The ACM (Asbestos Containing Materials) report for building 74 has been posted at SAM.gov along with Amendment 0011. The ACM report states, "No homogeneous materials were identified as asbestos-containing material during the CONXSIS.

Asbestos Survey on October 14, 2010. In addition, review of the existing asbestos survey conducted by Micro Air of Texas, Inc. dated June 14, 2010 identified no homogeneous material of asbestos-containing materials."

In the event that suspected asbestos containing materials are discovered during construction activities for the LTSCI project, the GC will immediately bring the matter to the attention of the

Resident Engineer. The VA will have the suspect materials tested, and will determine what if any other actions are needed as a result of the testing. In the event that abatement activities become necessary, such activities, schedule ramifications, and related scope of work will be negotiated as a contract change to the LTSCI project.

92. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 83 LTSCI MES

Please confirm items tagged "Vendor" or "VV" - Vendor furnished/installed in the Major Equipment Summary are not to be included by contractor in this RFP.

Response: In the MES and other related documents for this LTSCI project: V/V means, “VA

Furnished VA Installed”. V/V items are not to be purchased nor installed by contractor, although the contractor shall be responsible for coordination between such V/V items, with other equipment items and with the project itself and as per any other related instructions included within the construction documents.

93. Question: Drawing/Spec Section: 83 LTSCI MES

Provide specifications for equipment identified to be Contractor Furnished/Contractor Installed in the Major Equipment

Summary.

Response: The basis of design specifications for the items indicated to be Contractor Furnished/

Contractor Installed are included within TAB 5 in the MES (Major Equipment Schedule) which begins in part “2of6” and continues through the other following parts of the MES.

94. Question: Discipline: Commissioning

Spec Section: 01 91 00 Section 019100 states that the commissioning agent is by the VA, but 014500 says this individual is part of the CQC team. Please confirm the VA is hiring and paying for the commissioning agent.

Response: The VA CxA listed in section 01 01 00 is a different individual from the Contractor CxA.

The Contractor CxA is required by section 01 45 00 who is the contractor's CxA for the purposes of

QA/QC.

95. Question: To receive this most participation from prime offerers, please remove Factor 8 from the RFP.

Response: Factor 8: Union Labor Participation remains unchanged.

96. Question: Factor 8 impacts our ability to utilize small…