36C24120R0135_1.docx

Contract Opportunity Special Notice

PRODUCT SERVICE CODE

SUBJECT

CONTRACTING OFFICE'S

ZIP-CODE

SOLICITATION NUMBER

ARCHIVE

DAYS AFTER THE RESPONSE DATE

RECOVERY ACT FUNDS

NAICS CODE

CONTRACTING OFFICE

ADDRESS

POINT OF CONTACT

(POC Information Automatically Filled from User Profile Unless Entered)

DESCRIPTION

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AGENCY'S URL

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AGENCY CONTACT'S EMAIL

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EMAIL DESCRIPTION

GENERAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

* = Required Field Contract Opportunity Special Notice

C1GZ

631-21-002 Renovate Building 14 for Logistic Expansion 01053 36C24120R0135 N 541310 Heather.Libiszewski-Gallien@va.gov Dale.Aubin@va.gov

SPECIAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (SF-330)

NAICS Code: 541310 – Architectural Services (Small Business size standard $8 Million Dollars)

A. INTRODUCTION:

The VA Medical Center Central Western Massachusetts in Leeds, MA has a requirement for a Firm Fixed Price contract to provide professional Architect/Engineer (A/E) Design Services to Renovate Building 14 for Logistic Expansion. Develop complete drawings, specifications, cost estimates, project phasing, site visits, and construction period administration associated with renovating and modernizing the approximately 11,916 SF, current logistics building. Building 14 will house the Logistics Department employees and supplies at the Central Western Massachusetts Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

B. CONTRACT INFORMATION:

The VA Medical Center Central Western Massachusetts in Leeds, MA has a requirement for a Firm Fixed Price contract to provide professional Architect/Engineer (A/E) Design Services to Renovate Building 14 for Logistic Expansion. Develop complete drawings, specifications, cost estimates, project phasing, site visits, and construction period administration associated with renovating and modernizing the approximately 11,916 SF.

This acquisition is a Total Set-Aside for Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) in accordance with VAAR 852.219-10 with NAICS Code 541310. Any subsequent award will require the firm to be registered in System for Award Management (SAM www.sam.gov) and the VETBIZ Vendor Information Pages (https://www.vip.vetbiz.va.gov/). VETBIZ will be used to determine SDVOSB/VOSB Status, therefore, firms need to be registered with the applicable NAICS Code of 541310 at the time SF330’s are submitted.

Prospective firms are reminded that in accordance with FAR 52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting, at least 50 percent of the cost of personnel for contract performance shall be spent for employees of the concern. SF330 packages shall address how each firm anticipates meeting these criteria. This requirement is in accordance with the Selection of Architects and Engineers as implemented in Subpart 36.6 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation and Subpart 836.6 of the VA Acquisition Regulation. All submissions will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria. A "short list" of the three most highly rated after initial source selection will be chosen for negotiations of a contract award. The Government will not pay, nor reimburse, any costs associated with responding to this request. The Government is under no obligation to award a contract as a result of this announcement. Respondents are put on notice that firm(s) selected by the Selection Authority will be required to submit a Fixed Price Rate Proposal to include labor, overhead, profit, and other costs for this project for negotiation by the Contracting Officer prior to contract award. The negotiated agreement will be incorporated into the resulting contract.

C. THIS IS NOT A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL:

This is a request for SF 330's Architect/Engineer Qualifications packages only. Any requests for a solicitation will not receive a response. No material will be issued and no solicitation package or bidder/plan holder list will be issued.

D. PROJECT INFORMATION:

Provide all professional architectural and engineering (A/E) services necessary to develop complete drawings, specifications, cost estimates, project phasing, site visits, and construction period administration associated with renovating and modernizing the approximately 11,916 SF. Building 14 will house the Logistics Department employees and supplies at the Central Western Massachusetts Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

E. EVALUATION SELECTION CRITERIA:

Each respondent’s SF 330 submittal package will be evaluated in accordance with FAR 36.6 procedures. The selection criteria, in descending order of importance will be as follows:

F. SELECTION CRITERIA DESCRIPTIONS:

The selection criteria descriptions (1 through 8) are provided below.

1. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS NECESSARY FOR SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE OF REQUIRED SERVICES

Provide brief resumes of proposed team members who will specifically serve as the Project Managers and Designers of Record. In addition, provide resumes of other relevant team members or frequent subcontractor who will perform technical tasks under this contract including their record of working together. The Designers of Record shall perform and direct the design within their respective discipline and shall sign and seal the drawings. All Designers of Record must be professionally registered in their discipline. Each resume shall include a minimum of three (3) specific completed projects that best illustrate the individual team members experience relevant to this contract scope. All proposed team members and supervisors shall have the minimum education, training, and experience as is normally expected of a company actively providing the required services and shall have demonstrated experience to perform a project such as this within a VA Medical Center Hospital. Additionally, the firm shall address the criteria for meeting the Limitations on Subcontracting.

2. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE AND TECHNICAL COMPETENCE

Evidence of your experience in A/E Services for a complete design of MEP and Architectural upgrades with a construction magnitude between $500,000 to $1,000,000 (please provide contract descriptions, contract dollar amounts and telephone numbers for points of contact–no photographs).

Experience developing a National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) and executing a design incorporating NESHAP findings into the design.

Specialized experience and technical competence in health care facilities (to include joint ventures), including, where appropriate, experience in energy conservation, pollution prevention, waste reduction, and the use of recovered materials.

Evidence your firm has experience with a complete design within budget constraints.

This factor evaluates the amount of experience the AE firm has in designing similar types of building renovations and evaluating their technical competence. The factor includes an emphasis, where appropriate, on the firm's experience in energy conservation, pollution prevention, waste reduction, and the use of recovered materials.

Provide a detailed narrative of up to 5 (maximum) relevant projects completed within the last 5 years, which best illustrate overall team experience relevant to this contract scope. List projects that demonstrate the teams experience with projects of similar size and scope to those to be performed under this contract; emphasize any specialized experienced the firm has with steam upgrades (preferably at the VA or in a hospital environment.)

3. REPUTATION AND STANDING OF THE FIRM AND ITS PRINCIPAL OFFICIALS

Documentation supplied should allow the evaluation team to assess this factor with respect to professional performance, general management, and cooperativeness.

4. TEAMWORK

Documentation supplied should include specific experience and qualifications of personnel proposed for assignment to the project(s) and their record of working together as a team.

5. PAST PERFORMANCE

NCO 1 will evaluate past performance on recent and relevant contracts with Government agencies (emphasis on VA work) and private industry in terms of cost control, quality of work, compliance with performance schedule and a record of significant claims against the firm due to improper or incomplete engineering services (references required).

a. Recency is defined as performance occurring within 5 years of the date of this Notice, except that ongoing projects must have begun no less than one (1) year prior to the issuance of this Notice.

b. Relevancy is defined as performance of work on projects that are similar in scope to the type of project anticipated under the resultant contract.

Respondents with no previous past performance shall so state when addressing the selection criteria. Documentation supplied should detail firms’ ability to work with government entities and design standards or similar relevant experience with other entities.

a. Provide a copy of all performance evaluations (A/E) issued for government contracts (as applicable). For non-Federal contracts, provide facility owner documentation of the firms’ performance issued on that contract. If known documentation exists, so state.

b. Provide accessible owner points of contact: name, title, address, telephone number, e-mail, and fax number and provide copies of awards and letters of appreciation/recommendation as desired.

Past Performance Questionnaires (Attachment 1 to this Notice):

a. Respondents shall complete Section A (General Information) of the Past Performance Questionnaire and provide it to NCO 1 representative as part of the SF 330 submittal package.

b. Respondents shall submit the Past Performance Questionnaire Sections B through D and the Cover Letter to each Contracting Officer (or customer contact equivalent) and Project Manager (or customer contact equivalent) identified in its SF 330 Section F, “Example Projects Which Best Illustrate Proposed Team’s Qualifications for this Contract”. Sections B through D of the questionnaire shall be completed ONLY by the contract customer.

c. The contract customer shall complete sections B through D of the Past Performance Questionnaire and shall submit it directly to NCO 1 by the SF 330 submittal package due date identified in the Notice.

d. Past Performance Questionnaire Sections B through D will not be accepted from Respondents. Questionnaire sections B through D must come directly from the Respondent’s contract customer.

The Respondent bears the burden of providing relevant and timely references with accurate and current telephone numbers and addresses.

The Respondent is responsible for ensuring that the questionnaires issued by them are completed by the contract customer and submitted directly by the contract customer to NCO 1 no later than the SF 330 submittal package due date designated in this Notice.

Contract customer shall E-mail Past Performance Questionnaire Sections B through D.

Respondents are notified that NCO 1 may use any additional sources of information available to it regarding the Respondent’s relevant experience and past performance and consider the information thus obtained as part of this evaluation.

6. CAPACITY

This factor evaluates ability of the AE firm, given their current projected workload and the availability of their key personnel, to accomplish the design project in the required time.

The general workload and staffing capacity of the design office will be evaluated.

List current projects with a design fee of greater than $20,000 being designed in the firms’ office; indicate the firms’ present workload and the availability of the project team (including sub-consultants) for the specified contract performance period; and any impact that may have on taking on a new project with the scope of the steam upgrades design project.

Describe experience in successfully delivering projects per performance schedule, providing timely construction support, and successfully completing multiple projects with similar delivery dates; and if that workload would adversely impact a new project with the scope of the steam upgrades design project, then demonstrate how the firm intends to increase its workload capacity to complete this project.

Proof of professional liability insurance required to cover the amount of this project.

7. CAPABILITY AND COMMITMENT

The capability and commitment to provision accurate professional services. This factor includes determining customer satisfaction, project cost, and meeting project schedule by:

a. Reviewing the firms’ record on timeliness in replies to RFIs, review of submittals & shop drawings, periodic construction inspections, and timely completion of as–built drawings.

b. Determining the accuracy of professional services through a review of the history of services support, value engineering and any deficiencies which may have resulted in additional costs to NCO 1.

8. LOCATION

a. The A/E Firm must be generally located in the geographic area of the medical centers that comprise of the Leeds, MA VA Medical Center.

1. Please provide the address and distance of your closest office.

b. The A/E Firm must have general knowledge of the locality of the project.

G. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS:

a. Questions and comments regarding this notice must be submitted by email only to the Contracting Officer Heather Libiszewski-Gallien at Heather.Libiszewski-Gallien@va.gov and Dale Aubin at Dale.Aubin@va.gov

b. Oral questions will not be answered.

c. The deadline for questions is October 14, 2020 at 2:00pm EST.

H. SF 330 SUBMITTAL PACKAGE PAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

a. SF 330 submittal packages, including Past Performance Questionnaires, shall be submitted no later than 11:00AM EST on October 23, 2020.

· Respondents are responsible for ensuring SF 330 submittal packages, any revisions, and modifications are submitted by this time.

b. Qualified A/E firms are required to submit ONE (1) electronic copy via email to Heather.Libiszewski-Gallien@va.gov. and Dale.Aubin@va.gov.

c. If file size exceeds 7MB then firms are required to send multiple emails with a sequence stating email 1 of __.

SF 330 forms are available on-line at: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/type/SF

d. Submission of information incorporated by reference is not allowed.

e. Prospective firms shall address all selection criteria factors within their submitted SF 330 package.

f. Submissions are limited to 85 pages.

i. Absolutely no photographs shall be submitted.

ii. Title pages and tables of contents, if applicable, are excluded from the page count limitation.

iii. Pages submitted in excess of the limitations specified in this Notice will not be evaluated by NCO 1.

g. Telephone or Fax inquiries will not be accepted.

I. SF 330 PACKAGE CONTENTS:

a. The SF 330 submittal packages shall consist of a completed SF 330 parts I and II, specific information addressing each of the EIGHT selection criteria described in this Notice; the additional information required by this Notice and past performance questionnaire section A.

b. Respondents are required to meet all requirements in addition to those identified as selection criteria

c. SF 330 submittal packages not consistent with the requirements and selection criteria of this Notice may be determined unacceptable and removed from consideration.

d. Any SF 330 submittal package, modification, or revision, that is received at the designated NCO 1 office after the exact time specified for receipt is “late” and will not be considered unless it is received before award is made, the contracting officer determines that accepting the late submittal would not unduly delay the acquisition; and—there is acceptable evidence to establish that it was received at NCO 1 installation designated for receipt of submittal packages and was under NCO 1’s control prior to the time set for receipt of submittal packages; or it was the only submittal package received.

J. SF 330 PACKAGE PREPARATION:

a. Qualified A/E firms are required to submit ONE (1) electronic copy via email to Heather.Libiszewski-Gallien@va.gov and Dale.Aubin@va.gov.

SF 330 forms are available on-line at: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/type/SF.

b. Electronic copy shall be in searchable PDF format of the SF 330 parts I and II, questionnaire Section A and additional information requested by this Notice.

c. A cover sheet should be included, clearly marked with the Respondent's name, complete address with 9 digit zip code, phone number, e-mail address, DUNs number, date of response, title and Notice identification.

d. Information not provided elsewhere in the SF 330 submittal package shall not be incorporated by reference.

e. A table of contents shall be provided for ready reference to sections and figures.

f. SF 330 submittal packages shall be consistent with the following structure and formatted accordingly:

SF 330 PART I – CONTRACT – SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS

1. Sections A through D

2. Section E

3. Section F

4. Section G

5. Section H

6. Section I

7. Questionnaire section A only

8. Other additional information and attachments

SF 330 PART II – GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

(Note: Respondents shall clearly label additional information and attachments).

K. FAR and VAAR:

The FAR and VAAR citations referenced in this Special Notice can be accessed via the following internet links: https://www.acquisition.gov/far/index.html

L. ATTACHMENTS TO THE SPECIAL NOTICE:

Attachment 1 – Past Performance Questionnaire and Cover Letter

Project Statement of Work

END OF SPECIAL NOTICE

Scope of Work NRM Project No. 631-21-002 Renovate Building 14 for Logistics Expansion

1. OVERVIEW —

1.1 Government Agency Department and Address:

VA Central Western Massachusetts HealthCare System – VISN1 – Leeds

1.2 Project Title, Number and Location:

Project Title: Renovate Building 14 for Logistics Expansion Project Number: NRM No. 631-21-002

1.3 Scope of Work

Provide all professional architectural and engineering (A/E) services necessary to develop complete drawings, specifications, cost estimates, project phasing, site visits, and construction period administration associated with renovating and modernizing the approximately 11,916 SF, current logistics building. Building 14 will house the Logistics Department employees and supplies at the Central Western Massachusetts Veterans Affairs Medical Center, within the constraints of the construction budget consistent with the Veterans Affairs (VA’s) project team goals as prioritized during project meetings and field surveys. Conduct preliminary project scope meetings and site survey investigations to develop the necessary elements for conceptual layout schemes with proposed alternatives consistent with the VA’s project team goals as prioritized during preliminary project meetings, field surveys and studies.

The intent of this project is to modernize the areas and include, but is not limited to:

A. Renovate space per provided space planning criteria; maximize use of existing space.

B. Subdivide building to provide for the following functions:

1. Five offices: CLO, DCLO, NX/WH Sup., Ex Sup., and Acq. Specilaist.

2. Twelve Pods/Cubicles

3. EMS Primary Storage

4. Office Supply

5. Contingency Supply

6. Equipment Storage

7. Breakroom/Conference Room

8. Bathroom/ Locker Room

9. Admin Area

10. Print shop

11. Medical, Surgical, Lab, Dental and Imaging Supply

12. Bulk Room

13. Breakout Room C. Upgrade electrical system D. Upgrade lighting system E. Evaluate and remove/replace or install as necessary new HVAC system.

F. Upgrade fire protection system G. Upgrade life safety system H. Upgrade security system

I. The design shall include installing port data connections for telephones, computers and power into each office and applicable rooms.

J. Work shall include, but not be limited to, architectural, interior finishes, mechanical (plumbing, fire protection and HVAC), electrical, structural, asbestos and lead paint removal, and other specialty consultants required pertinent to the project requirements within the constraints of the construction budget consistent with the VA’s project team goals as prioritized during project meetings and field surveys. All finishes shall be coordinated with VA Central Western Massachusetts Interior Designer.

K. A whole building NESHAP survey is required.

L. Include alternative floor plans in the 15% submittal for review by end user.

M. The A/E shall obtain all environmental and other necessary permits that would be required prior to construction commencing – including but not limited to the Massachusetts Dept. of the Environmental Protection (MassDEP)

N. The A/E shall base their design to meet the following sustainable energy requirements:

· VA HVAC Design Manual

· VA Sustainable Design Manual

· Space Planning Criteria as applicable

O. All field work shall be scheduled at least 72 hours in advance with VA Facilities Management.

P. All work shall be performed in accordance with VA Construction Safety Code and OSHA codes.

Q. The Contractor shall wear visible identification issued by the VA at all times while on the premises.

R. Smoking is prohibited at the VAMC.

S. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to park in the appropriate designated parking areas. The VAMC will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations of the Contractor under any conditions.

T. The performance period for this work is 180 days after receipt of order.

2. DESCRIPTION OF WORK —

2.1 General: Conduct preliminary meetings and site survey investigations to define the necessary elements of the project scope of work fulfilling the goals of the VA’s project team (Engineering Services), and presentation of preliminary layout plans with proposed alternatives to the User Group. Based on User Group meetings and site surveys, prepare a detailed project plan description report pertinent to the project requirements within the constraints of the construction budget consistent with the VA’s project team goals. Through the course of the design phase, it will be necessary to interface with Medical Center staff to ascertain the details of the scope through a series of meetings and periodic submissions of documents. All design submission requirements shall be in accordance to A/E Contract and conform to all VA criteria and standards.

The A/E shall use VA Program Guides, Design Manuals and Master Specifications in preparing the Construction Documents for the project. However, should the A/E determine that deviation from such standards and specifications is necessary or beneficial to the Government; s/he shall promptly submit a request in writing to the Contracting Officer for permission to make the deviation. The request shall include an explanation of the specific reasons for the desired change and benefits expected.

2.2 Implementation: Engage the services of all consultants in each discipline deemed to be necessary to fulfill the requirements of the project plan. Each discipline shall document and investigate the relevant existing conditions, review the building available information, and verify all essential elements pertinent to their discipline. Site investigations shall measure, photograph, and document the conditions of areas to be renovated and/or impacted.

The A/E shall visit the project site to investigate the information shown on the Government Furnished drawings, record (asbuilt) drawings and other planning documents which are part of this contract. This information is the best available, but the Government does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. The A/E's investigation of field conditions shall be performed in a competent professional manner in accordance with the Architectural Design Manual and other applicable VA requirements. It is the A/E's responsibility to research the existing Government documents, determine those that are applicable to the project and request copies from the Government; the Government will not perform a search of Government documents to determine the information that the A/E may need during design.

2.3 Project Development: The A/E shall provide all services required to prepare documents and reports for the subject project consistent with the VA’s project team goals as prioritized during preliminary project meetings, field surveys and studies. The A/E shall determine existing conditions, severity of deficiencies, if any previous deficiencies have been corrected and to identify any conditions which may have previously been unreported. Cost estimates shall be prepared to reflect the cost of replacing the component in a standalone project (i.e., not as part of another project) and all cost for this replacement including but not limited to asbestos removal, required phasing, special field conditions and/or temporary equipment needed during the construction. The completed report shall then be submitted for approval to the Project Engineer.

2.4 Project Design: Based on the approved design development the A/E shall provide all services required to prepare plans, specifications, and other supporting documents necessary to correct the identified deficiencies in priority order. The approved cost estimate and available project funding will be used to determine the amount of deficiencies which will be correct under this project. A complete design including but not limited to determination and evaluation of existing conditions, necessary engineering calculation, necessary design work, independent fire safety/life safety review, IH Services, quantity and cost estimates, bid schedule, construction cost estimates, a proposed construction schedule, design analyses and calculations, a design documentation report, engineering considerations and options report shall be developed for this project.

2.5 Asbestos: The proper identification of Asbestos to determine construction costs associated with Comprehensive Strategy & Report phase of this project are considered part of this project. To extent possible existing Asbestos Assessment of the facility will be made available to the A/E. Additionally proper asbestos abatement design and IH monitoring services required during construction to correct the deficiencies selected for the construction design portion of this project shall also be provided by the A/E. A whole building and applicable surrounding structures / utilities NESHAP will be required as part of this project.

2.6 Lead: The proper identification of lead paint to determine removal during construction costs associated with Comprehensive Strategy & Report phase of this project are considered part of this project. To extent possible existing Lead Paint Assessment of the facility will be made available to the A/E

3. GENERAL DESCRIPTION of SERVICES —

A/E shall provide the services indicated in this Overview, Supplement A, Supplement B and Volume C A/E Design Submission Instructions link: http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/ae/aesubmin.doc.

These services will be provided in distinct phases:

Conceptual – Preliminary User Group Meetings & Field Surveys 15% Submittal- Conceptual 35 % Submittal – Schematics 65% Submittal – “DD” Design Development 90% Submittal – “CD” Construction Documents 100% Submittal – Bid [Final] Documents Construction Period Services Project Close Out Submittal – “As-Built” Construction Documents

3.1 Drawings: The drawings, specifications, and all other submittal items will be prepared using English units of measure.

3.1.1 General: The A/E shall prepare drawings in a manner that clearly and adequately delineates the work to be accomplished by the construction contractor. Design documents will be sufficiently detailed to permit construction contractors to submit responsive bids without visiting the project site. The cover sheet will be signed and stamped by principal of the firm who is a registered Architect or Professional Engineer. All drawings will be created using AutoCAD and National CAD standards. These CAD standards are available on the Internet at http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/projReq.asp and click on the VA National CAD Standard Application Guide link.

3.1.2 CAD Files: One CAD (*.DWG) file shall be used per drawing (sheet) applying the VA’s CAD layering and disk labeling protocols. All files shall be Microsoft Operating System compatible and furnished on high quality CD/DVD disks. Provide in accordance with Supplement “B” sets of drawings (AutoCAD). The computerized version, format and media of the computer disks and files shall be specified and verified by the VA Project Engineer at the time each submission is due (XRF, DXF and ZIP files are not acceptable). Provide durable high-quality plastic storage boxes at each submission for long term archiving of the disks.

3.1.3 Format: All drawings and sketches will be provided in both hard copy and electronic file format. Full-sized drawings shall be developed 30”x42” sized sheets (30 inches by 42 inches at the trim line) and shall utilize the standard VA title block. Fonts shall be standard AutoCAD, and drawings must be fully compatible with AutoCAD 2014. Drawing file names must relate to the VA project name, discipline and subject as approved by the VA Project Engineer. Drawings shall utilize world coordinate system with standard cross hairs. Adobe Acrobat PDF files for each AutoCAD file shall be provided.

3.1.4 An independent fire safety and life safety review shall be accomplished at the 65% and 90% design submissions. An independent peer review will occur at the 90%. For all reviews AE needs to address comments and include any changes in the next submission. The VA reserves the right to do more frequent or other design reviews as required.

3.2 Specifications …

3.2.1 General: The A/E shall utilize the latest edition of VA Master Specifications as revised and provided by the facility supplemented by the VA Office of Construction and Facilities Management Master Specifications as needed. The VA retains no responsibility for the development or preparation of any specification. While it is recognized that certain Divisions and/or Sections will require significant input from the VA, the A/E retains overall responsibility for these Sections.

3.2.2 Electronic Files: All files shall be Microsoft compatible and furnished on high quality CD-R disks. Provide in accordance with Supplement “B” sets of specifications (MS Word). The computerized version, format and media of the computer disks and files shall be specified and verified by the VA Project Engineer at the time each submission is due (ZIP files are not acceptable). Provide durable high-quality plastic storage boxes at each submission for long term archiving of the disks.

3.2.3 Outline Specifications: The A/E shall develop an outline specification listing the proposed guide specifications and the A/E prepared sections that will be used for the project. The outline specification will list the guide specification number and title for each proposed section. Sections shall be arranged within their respective divisions, in numerical order. New specification sections, developed by the A/E, will be numbered to fall in their respective division at a logical location.

3.2.4 Editing Specifications: The A/E must thoroughly edit and adapt the Specifications to satisfy the project requirements and provide a complete set of construction specifications. The A/E shall notify the VA in writing should there be instances where there are no appropriate Master Specifications available for use. At the VA’s direction the required specifications will be prepared by the A/E. These specifications shall list the essential features, functions, and other factors to clearly indicate the type and quantity of items/work required. All specifications will be prepared by listing parameters and requirements that can be met by several manufacturers.

3.2.5 Construction Contractor Submittal Register: The specifications require the construction contractor to submit shop drawings, samples, manufacturer’s data, certificates, test reports, and other items to the Government. The A/E shall prepare a complete listing of construction contractor submittal requirements on an Excel Spreadsheet. The spreadsheet shall have a separate line for each required submittal and separate columns for Division, Section, and type of submittal (catalog cut, sample, etc.).

3.3 Quantity and Cost Estimates …

3.3.1 Format: The A/E shall prepare quantity computations, cost estimates, and construction cost estimates for this project. All construction cost estimates shall conform to the requirements contained in VA Manual for Preparation of Cost Estimates (latest edition). Manual is available on the internet at http://www.cfm.va.gov/cost/ .

3.3.2 Cost Estimate Submittal: Cost estimates shall be submitted in 1 hard copy and in electronic form. THE A/E IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ESTABLISHING INTERNAL CONTROLS FOR KEEPING THE PRJOJECT DESIGN WITHIN PROJECTED CONSTRUCTION FUNDING. THE A/E WILL BE REQUIRED TO REVISE DESIGN AND RESUBMIT COST ESTIMATES AS NECESSARY (AT NO COST TO THE VA) SHOULD COST ESTIMATES EXCEED CONSTRUCTION FUNDING.

3.3.3. Proposed Phasing and Construction Schedule: The A/E shall prepare a proposed schedule for construction that is consistent with the project construction cost estimate. During development of this schedule, due consideration will be given to standard construction practices, durations of tasks, the sequence of construction, procurement of materials, climatic conditions, etc. This project involves the entire building, It is planned that areas in and adjacent to the proposed construction area shall be occupied during construction. The A/E shall develop, as required, a phasing plan that addresses this fact and assures smooth implementation of required construction.

3.4 Design Analysis (DA): The A/E shall develop a DA that addresses general project parameters, functional and technical requirements, design objectives, design assumptions and calculations applicable to the project’s design. Design/Construction Alternatives, existing physical limitation and their impact shall also be included in the DA.

3.5 Quality Control …

3.5.1. Quality Control Plan: The A/E shall prepare a Quality Control Plan (QCP) which includes the following as a minimum:

· Identification and discussion of all organizational and technical interfaces

· Design team members and their areas of responsibility

· Team members responsible for checking the design

· Team members responsible for checking the electronic files

· Team members responsible for reviewing and submitting the required VA Design Alerts and Quality Alerts

· Project Schedule showing key milestones and review periods

3.5.1.1. VA Design Alerts and VA Quality Alerts can be found on the internet at http://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/ .

3.5.2. Quality Assurance: The A/E is responsible for developing and performing quality assurance reviews of all work to confirm that proper criteria, regulations, laws, codes, principles and professional procedures have been used. This includes work performed by subcontractors. The VA shall review all project submissions but this review is general in nature and should not be considered as part of the A/E’s Quality Control Plan and/or Quality Assurance.

3.5.3 Quality Certification: The A/E shall certify at each submission in writing that he/she has performed quality assurance reviews of that submission.

3.6 Site Visits, Meetings/Conferences, and Discussions …

3.6.1. Site Visits: The A/E shall perform design site visits as required to accomplish the scope of this project. The purpose of these visits is to further define project requirements, observe and evaluate existing field conditions, review any existing documentation, conduct required design meetings, and to gather supplemental site data necessary for performing the design. Reports summarizing the conditions observed, personnel contacted, and data gathered during the visits shall be prepared and included in the Design Development Documentation.

3.6.2. Design Review Conferences: Design review conferences shall conduct shortly following the issuance of each review Submission. Refer to Supplement B for the proposed schedule, but will typically take place two weeks after the submission date. Design review conferences for the Schematics, Design Development and Construction Document Development phase shall include the A/E Project Manager/Senior Designer. These conferences shall take place at the facilities where the work is being performed.

3.6.3 Site Visit and Meeting Minutes: The A/E shall take notes and prepare minutes for all site visits, meetings and conferences attended during design. Minutes will be prepared in typed form, signed by the A/E Project Manager, and furnished to project engineer within seven calendar days after the meeting/conference for concurrence and distribution to attendees. Copies of all meeting/conference minutes will be included in each Submission.

3.7 Responsibility after Design Completion: The A/E is required to support the VA should errors or omissions in the documents create problems in bidding or administering the contract for construction. As needed, the A/E will clarify the design intent and correct any errors or omissions in the original documents. The corrections shall be done in a timely manner at no additional cost to the Government. The A/E shall incorporate amendment changes on the original drawings and/or CAD drawings when requested to do so after the bidding process at no extra cost to the Government. In addition, the A/E shall incorporate amendment changes on the submittal registers and submit on a CD labeled with the project title, location, and construction contract number. Also, during the bidding period, the A/E is required to assist in answering all bidders’ inquiries pertaining to the design. If clarifications are required, the A/E will prepare the required amendment. The A/E, however, shall not receive or respond to any direct inquiries from contractors.

3.8 A/E Services during Construction – Construction Period Administration (CPA):

CPA Services shall include, but are not limited to, review and approval of construction submittals covering products that have been listed within the contract documents and contractor substitutions, manufacturer’s data/performance sheets, samples, shop drawings, schedules, phasing plans. Compatibility analyses of different materials and recommendations associated with acceptance or rejection of alternate materials and products. Responses to Request for Information (RFI); change order review and recommendations; preparation of cost estimates to Request for Proposal (RFP); cost/time/impact estimates and recommendations relevant to design omissions and construction plan deviations.

Attendance (phone in) at weekly construction meetings is required – plan for approximately 72. Site visits (24 minimum) as required and/or requested by the VA Project Engineer for inspection of ongoing construction including final tests and inspections; documentation of all necessary site visits to the VA Project Engineer within one (1) week after the visit; verification of as-built conditions from contractor supplied marked up prints, and preparation of as-built documents in accordance with Supplement “B” which the VA will retain permanently. IH services associated with any asbestos abatement identified in the project.

The Government may issue a change order for the A/E to provide additional services to such as review of value engineering change proposals, preparation of design modifications, or other similar services during construction.

4. INCORPORATED REFERENCES — the following documents form a part of this contract to the extent referenced are included in the A/E Scope of Work. Design requirements identified in these documents are part of the A/E Required Services. National Codes, Standards and other requirements referenced in these documents also become part of the A/E Required Services. Design Copies of these may be found on internet at http://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/ .

5. DESIGN BUDGET —

5.1 A/E is responsible to develop a design that can be built within budget and function as intended without change orders. The design must be based on the reality of existing site conditions and not solely on “As-Built” drawings. The A/E as part of their site investigation is responsible for confirming all existing conditions that may affect the project construction.

5.2 Cost Estimating: A/E shall be responsible, as part of the Quality Assurance Plan, to develop procedures for tracking estimated construction costs throughout the project design. Cost estimates submitted as part of the submission requirements shall not be used as the sole method of meeting this requirement. The A/E shall notify the Project Engineer when estimated construction costs exceed the construction budget. The A/E shall be responsible for proposing alternates to bring the project cost estimate within the construction budget. A/E shall modify design elements as necessary to keep the project cost estimate within the construction funding level. These changes shall be made at no additional cost to the Government.

5.3 Construction Budget: Refer to Supplement A

5.4 Deduct Alternates: Shall be utilized in the best interest of the Government for market condition variations to maximize the use of available Government funds. The Government shall select the proposed alternates from the A/E recommendations. Deduct Alternates shall not be used to bring the projected project costs within construction funding. These alternates are designed to assure a contract award and are in addition to the requirement to have a project design and estimate at or below construction funding.

5.5 Add Alternates: Shall not be used.

6. DESIGN PHASES —

6.1 CONCEPTUAL with ALTERNATIVES: Refer to Supplement A and B. Working with the VA Medical Center’s project team (Project Engineer and User Group) the A/E shall propose conceptual needs and requirements with proposed alternatives for the planned scope of work. This task is an iterative process requiring multiple proposals and revisions developed during site meetings.

6.2 SCHEMATICS: Refer to Volume C A/E Design Submission Instructions see link under paragraph 3. A/E shall develop specific design needs and requirements with proposed alternatives. These documents are to be developed from the documents, meeting minutes and recommendations made during the conceptual phase. Any existing utilities and/or equipment which are to be incorporated into the project design shall be reviewed and evaluated to assure that they are indeed there and are in sufficient quantity and condition to do so. Documents for this task define project requirements based on the planned scope of work. All required functional requirements shall be identified and incorporated into the project. All Architectural and Engineering requirements shall be identified and incorporated into the project. A/E shall provide an evaluation of the coordination of the drawings between disciplines; identification of errors, omissions or conflicts found within or between drawings and specifications.

6.3 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT: Refer to Volume C A/E Design Submission Instructions see link under paragraph 3. Any existing utilities and/or equipment which are to be incorporated into the project design shall be further reviewed and evaluated to assure that they are indeed there and are in sufficient quantity and condition to do so. Documents for this task define project requirements based on the approved scope of work. These documents are to be developed from the documents, meeting minutes and recommendations made during the schematics phase. All required functional requirements shall be identified and incorporated into the project. All Architectural and Engineering requirements shall be identified and incorporated into the project. A/E shall provide an evaluation of the coordination of the drawings between disciplines; identification of errors, omissions or conflicts found within or between drawings and specifications. A/E shall provide an evaluation of schedule to meet operating plan, project phasing and market conditions which may affect bidding. It is expected that at the completion of this phase marks the completion of the data gathering portion of the project. The A/E shall have obtained all information required (including site visits) to proceed directly the preparation of Construction Documents.

6.4 CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS: Refer to Volume C A/E Design Submission Instructions see link under paragraph 3. The A/E shall develop complete drawings and specifications and other documents necessary for the bidding and construction of this project. These documents are to be developed from the documents, meeting minutes and recommendations made during the design development phase. A/E shall perform an evaluation of the coordination of the drawings between disciplines; identification of errors, omissions or conflicts found within or between drawings and specifications. A/E shall provide an evaluation of schedule to meet operating plan Invitation for Bids and Award dates, project phasing, and market conditions which may affect bidding.

6.5 Special Remarks: Cost estimates shall incorporate construction related issues which include but are not limited to materials, systems and construction techniques. Design documents review, analyses and recommendation of cost estimates covering labor, materials, equipment, general conditions and requirements developed for the project. Estimates shall allow for incorporation of review comments, which are within the SOW.

7. SUBMITTALS AND PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE —

7.1 Deliver Submission Documents to the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System Project Engineer. The performance period will be project specific and will be specified with each scope of work. Review of material with the VA will take place approximately 15 days business days after submission.

7.2 Submission Materials and Schedules: Refer to Supplement B. Reproduction, mailing and delivery time is inclusive to the stated durations.

7.3 Government Review and Comment Resolution: The VA will review all submittals identified under this contract for functional and aesthetic relationship. VA review of the A/E’s work shall not be construed by either party to relieve the A/E from any requirements of this scope of work. The A/E will be responsible for taking minutes from submission review meetings and submitting them to the project engineer for concurrence within 7 days of the meeting. Both parties will discuss these comments, if necessary, and attempt to resolve any unsettled issues that may arise from the review.

7.4 The A/E may choose to perform work, at its own risk, during the Government review and comment resolution period, however, comments resulting from that review must be incorporated into the design prior to the next submittal. In the event a subsequent design phase is not authorized, the A-E shall incorporate all available review comments into the design to complete the current phase.

8. AUTHORIZED CHANGES — The A/E shall only accept instructions and/or directions from the assigned VAMC Project Engineer and/or Contracting Officer. Changes in the project scope of work or cost must be authorized by the VA Contracting Officer only.

9. Timely Response - As time is of the essence, particularly during the construction phase, the A/E shall promptly review and approve, disapprove or take other appropriate action upon all the VA requests. The A/E shall submit recommendations on all shop drawings and other submittals and other requests within ten (10) business days after receipt.

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SUPPLEMENT “A”

General Scope of Work (SOW): See main document