36C24120R0142 0003.docx

5. PROJECT NUMBER (if applicable)

CODE

7.

ADMINISTERED BY

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NUMBER

CODE

6. ISSUED BY

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NUMBER

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NUMBER

9B. DATED

PAGE OF

PAGES

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER

10B. DATED

BPA NO.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

FACILITY CODE

CODE

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

E. IMPORTANT:

is extended,

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning __________ copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE

OF YOUR

ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY is not extended.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

(REV. 11/2016)

is required to sign this document and return ___________ copies to the issuing office.

is not, A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

15C. DATE SIGNED

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERE

D CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES

SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR

OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendmen t, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER

Contractor

16C. DATE SIGNED

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION

16B. UNITED

STATES OF AMERICA

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF

CONTRACTING OFFICER

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

STANDARD FORM 30

PREVIOUS EDITION NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.243 (Type or print) (Type or print) (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

(Number, street, county, State and ZIP Code) (If other than Item 6) (Specify type of modification and authority) (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.)

(If required)

(SEE ITEM 11)

(SEE ITEM 13)

(X)

CHECK

ONE

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF

SOLICITATIONS

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer) 405-13-104 Department of Veterans Affairs VAMC Providence 830 Chalkstone Avenue Providence RI 02908 Department of Veterans Affairs VAMC Providence 830 Chalkstone Avenue Providence RI 02908 To all Offerors/Bidders

36C24120R0142 08-26-2020

X X X ** HOUR & DATE for Receipt of Offers is EXTENDED to: 2:00pm on 10/29/2020 See CONTINUATION Page X The above referenced solicitation as identified in block 9a for the inpatient unit renovation project at the White River Junction VA Medical Center is hereby amended to extend due date of proposals and respond to RFIs.

Another amendment will be issued at a later date to address COR pending RFI responses.

Due date for proposals is 10/29/2020 at 2:00pm.

Karla Rotondo Contracting Officer

A.1 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Base Bid: Provide all manpower, materials and supervision, and other resources necessary to accomplish renovations to the inpatient ward project of Building 31/Granite building in accordance with project drawings and specifications.

DEDUCTIVE ALTERNATE DA-1

Delete Carpet CPT-1 & CPT-2 and Replace with 12”x12”x1/8” Standard Vinyl Composition Tile. See project drawings for distribution of CPT-1 & CPT-2. Assume standard vinyl composition tile equivalent to Armstrong Standard Exelon Imperial Texture with one (1) field color (approximately 70 percent of the total area) and three (3) accent colors (approximately 10 percent of the total area for each accent color). VCT distribution and patterns to be determined.

Period of Performance Reduction from Base Offer is 0 calendar days

DEDUCTIVE ALTERNATE DA-2

Delete Patient Room Headwall Decorative Plastic Laminate Panels & Trim and Replace with Accent Paint Colors. Eliminate plastic laminate panels and divider trim at all patient room head wall locations. In lieu of plastic laminate panels in these locations assume the application of two (2) accent paint colors in a straight-sided rectangular pattern (TBD).

Reference the following elevations in the project drawings, but note that this deductive alternate is applicable to all headwall locations whether shown on the elevations or not shown:

6 / 31-AS-405; 5 & 14 / 31-AS-406; 5 / 31-AS-407; 3 & 12 / 31-AS-408; 9 / 31-AS-410;

6 & 11 / 31-AS-411; 1 & 2 / 31-AS-416; 1 & 2 / 31-ID-103

DEDUCTIVE ALTERNATE DA-3

Delete Replacement of Exterior Windows. See project drawings for information relevant to the Base Scope of Work. Refer to (but not necessarily limited to) First Floor Demolition Plan 31-AS-106, First Floor Renovation Plan 31-AS-109 and details 5 & 8 / 31-AS-201 and 11 / 31-AS-601. Note that installation of the spray foam insulation remains in the Base Scope of Work. As a result, all window head and jamb returns will need to be patched and repaired and all window sills will need to be replaced to accommodate the deeper returns caused by the deeper wall section. The existing storm windows shall be removed by the contractor, saved for re-use and re-installed by the contractor at the new wall plane. The contractor shall set the storm window sashes in the closed position upon reinstallation and shall secure them closed in a neat manner acceptable to the VAMC.

Associated MEP Scope – Revise Radiant Ceiling Panel sizes for type RP-3 and RP-4 to be 24” wide nominal, 4 tube by 4’-0” long, rated for 1,556 BTUH at 170 AWT. See drawing 31-M-505-DA5. Refer to plan drawings for locations. Shift locations of proposed exhaust grilles in Toilet Rooms 128A and 137A to accommodate longer panel size.

DEDUCTIVE ALTERNATE DA-4

Delete Pass-through Supply Storage Units. Every patient bedroom room as proposed, except Patient Room 116, incorporates a “pass-through” assembly that includes back-to-back supply cabinets installed above short swing doors. Delete the pass-through assembly, associated framed soffit and wing walls in their entirety and replace with standard framed wall construction as a continuation of the adjacent wall type in the same plane. Refer to First Floor Renovation Plan 31-AS-109 for general locations, Detail 6 / 31-AS-902, and the various enlarged room plans and interior elevations.

DEDUCTIVE ALTERNATE DA-5

Delete Proposed Renovation Work in the Southwest Corner of the Project Area. (aka: Desk-80). See drawing 31-AS-109DA-5, Deductive Alternate DA-5 Southwest Corner Scope Removal (aka: Desk-80), for identification of the general area included in this deductive alternate. The scope reduction shall include elimination of all general demolition and construction work within the affected area including, but not limited to, General Conditions, Overhead, Profit, general and targeted demolition, all work in the ceiling space below the affected area, and reconstruction of the space pursuant to the corresponding construction drawings. Some of the specific trades affected include hazardous materials abatement, finishes and construction material removal, exterior window replacement, exterior wall insulation, acoustical insulation, metal framing, wallboard, doors, door frames, door hardware, finish materials, finished ceilings, casework & trim, and wall protection.

The scope modifications for the mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, lighting, electrical & special systems trades shall be as follows and the general contractor shall be responsible for related construction access and restorative activities (e.g.: existing ceiling limited removal and replacement):

2. Fire Protection – Branch piping and sprinkler heads within this area to remain. Refeed branch piping from the proposed new distribution piping (no drawings issued).

1. Nurse Call responses on Amendment 1 is hereby deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

Specifications for the Nurse Call System is a Hill-Rom Navicare system. Would another manufacturer be an approved equal, for example, an Ascom system?

RESPONSE: “Nurse Call System shall be Hill-Rom Navicare as designed. No substitutions and all work shall be in accordance with specifications and drawings.

2. Print 31-AS-109 Room G-82: Please advise on the requirements for note #8.

RESPONSE: Delete reference to Note 8 and replace with Note 5.

3. Please provide a specification for ACT type X1.

RESPONSE: Wherever it is necessary for the “Ceiling Tile to match existing” use salvaged tiles to the extent practicable and supplement with new matching material as necessary when the supply of salvaged material is insufficient. Note that all acoustical ceiling tile visible in the architect’s site photographs appear to be 2x4 tegular, molded to a 2x2 pattern, white, medium fissured.

4. Please provide plan locations for ACT types X1, 1,2,3.

RESPONSE: The scope of X1 (Ceiling Tile to match existing) is expected to be very limited and is not readily quantifiable, except to note that any location where existing acoustical tiles are intended to remain may require miscellaneous replacement due to demolition and reconfiguration activities. Delete reference to ceiling types ACT-1, ACT-2, and ACT-3. All new acoustical ceiling tiles used throughout the project – except Isolation Rooms 103, 109, 111 and 129 – shall be 2x4 tegular, molded to a 2x2 pattern, white, medium fissured to match Owner’s Standard, equal to Manufacturer and Product Line. The ceiling tiles used in Isolation Rooms 103, 109, 111 and 129 shall be equal to Armstrong Clean Room VL, 24”x48”, flat lay-in, non-perforated, minimum 1-lb per square foot.

5. 31-AS-110: Please provide requirements for wall type 11 in room 140B.

RESPONSE: Delete reference to Wall Type 11. Use Wall Type 4.

6. Please confirm the question period was extend with the solicitation modification to September 10.

RESPONSE: Proposal due date with this amendment is extended to 10/29/2020. All RFIs are due by 10/15/2020.

7. Please provide a specification for the “Clear Super-Hydrophobic Finish” per 31-AS-602.

RESPONSE: Equal to Sherwin-Williams 2K Water Based Urethane Coating, Satin. Prepare surfaces and apply product in accordance with the manufacturer’s written instructions.

8. Please provide a DFH schedule for doors 110, 156B, G-77, G82A & G-86B.

RESPONSE: Doors 110, 116B and 157: existing to remain, sand, prime & paint to refinish; Door 156B: Use Hardware Group DFH-13; Door G77: Use Hardware Group DFH-G5; Door G82A: 3070x1¾” SCWD, Flush, HM Frame, No Label, Hardware per group DFH-G6 (omit Kick Plate); Door G86B: Change to Door G-86A per Group DFH-G2.

9. 31-AS-602 includes DFH-G5 for doors 142 & 143. These doors are not located on the drawing. Please advise.

RESPONSE: Change DFH-G5 to refer to Door G77. Delete reference to doors 142 & 143

10. 31-AS-602 DFH-7 includes door 143 as a single leaf. Plans 31-AS-110 & 31-AS-412 indicate a unequal pair. Please advise.

RESPONSE: Unequal pair is correct, 3870 Flush (Active) + 1470 Flush (Inactive) x 1¾”, SCWD, HM Frame, No Label, Hardware per DFH-2 with Automatic Door Bottom and Sound Control Gaskets.

11. Please advise if doors under DFH-6 are included in deductive alternate #5 or are to remain.

RESPONSE: Yes, these doors are eliminated as part of the deductive alternate to delete the pass-through assembly. The pass-through assembly includes these doors. See also drawing mark-up 31-AS-110-DA4.

12. 31-AS-602 includes DFH-21 for door C-107B. This door is not located on the drawing. Please advise.

RESPONSE: Door C-107B was inadvertently omitted from the plan. It is located at the head of the diagonal connecting corridor on the south side of the floor and is an existing door to remain and receives new hardware as indicated. On drawing 31-AS-106 delete removal of this door & associated wall assembly.

13. Please take just one minute to review this new alternative [Waterguard]. Waterguard is a much improved way to keep your drywall up and off the floor so that it never wicks moisture through the slab nor absorbs liquids introduced while mopping and waxing. The secondary benefit of Waterguard is that it fills this gap so that rubber base has a secure backing, stays straight and smooth, and is never pushed into the gap.

RESPONSE: The use of “Waterguard” wallboard base is the bidder’s discretion. It is not required on the project.

14. Can you provide the justification for the 800lb. weight load requirement as this is much higher than the VA ceiling lift weight requirement for non-bariatric rooms?

RESPONSE: This weight load requirement anticipates that patients of size may be placed in any patient room depending on need.

15. First Floor Demolition Plan 31-AS-106 includes a note stating that the Owner will remove the existing ceiling mounted patient lift systems and structural components. Seeing how the new patient lift systems and new structural supports are now the responsibility of the General Contractor (GC) per Amendment #0001, will the GC be required to remove the existing systems? If so, how many existing locations are there?

RESPONSE: The GC is responsible for removal of the existing systems and all their operational & structural components. The GC shall consult with the Owner and deliver to storage all components the Owner requests to be saved. The GC shall dispose of all components not saved. There are XX existing patient lift locations. [VAMC to advise on quantity]

16. First Floor Demolition Plan 31-AS-106 includes the following note at eight (8) columns; ‘Do not remove gypsum wall board – Maintain 2 hour rating at existing interior column.’ Fireproofing Plan 31-AS-107 includes the following note at the same eight (8) columns; ‘Structural steel columns: Verify and maintain existing 2-hour fire rated protection at columns. Provide 2-hour fire rated spray-applied cementitious fire proofing at all unprotected column surfaces.’ Please clarify what this work entails and whether the intent is to install spray-applied cementitious fireproofing at columns that may be exposed above the existing ceilings.

RESPONSE: Any structural steel surface that is not otherwise protected by a 2-hour fire-resistive assembly shall receive spray-applied cementitious fire proofing.

17. Please confirm the GC's are to carry the testing and balancing contract directly and not through the mechanical contractor.

RESPONSE: Correct.

18. With the number of card readers required in this project will there be a location within the ward for new access control panel hardware to be mounted?

RESPONSE: Location TBD. Assume I.T. Room 158 for bidding purposes.

19. If so, where? Room 158, IT Closet, or other location?

RESPONSE: Location TBD. Assume I.T. Room 158 for bidding purposes.

20. Q & A # 18 from 8/25/20 indicates all wiring is to be in raceways. Does this include Security wiring, or can that be run loose through the ceilings/walls?

RESPONSE: Per specification 280500, 2.2.E, all wiring and cable shall be run in conduit.

21. Is all door locking hardware to be provided by Division 8 vendor, electric strikes, mortises, maglocks?

RESPONSE: We suggest Division 8, but this can be the GC’s discretion.

22. Reference Page 5 of the RFP: Note 1 of the RFP states 'This is a multiphase construction project including substantial renovations to the ground floor of Building 31 in preparation for service as temporary inpatient space during phased construction.' Please confirm the intent is that the ground floor work is to be completed prior to work starting on the 1st floor.

RESPONSE: The Ground Floor temporary inpatient space must be completed before renovation work can commence on the first floor. See Phasing Plan 31-AS-104.

23. Reference the RFP: VOLUME I, Requirements for Proposal Content: Volume I shall not exceed 50 pages. Can the schedule be counted separately from the 50 pages?

RESPONSE: Schedule is to be included in the page limit.

24. Reference the RFP: Pages 6 - 7 and pages 38 - 39 identify (4) four separate deduct Alternates. Pages 9 - 10 identify (6) six Deduct Alternates. Which CLIN schedule is to be used within the response? Will the rating be based on the 4 deducts or the 6 deducts?

RESPONSE: Deducts have been corrected within amendment 3.

25. Reference the RFP: Page 40 includes a sample break out for pricing. Will this be acceptable to meet the RFP requirements for break out pricing?

RESPONSE: Yes

26. Reference the RFP: Page 41 is a calculation sheet to verify self-perform. As an SDVOSB would Self perform also include labor by similarly situated companies?

RESPONSE: Only if guaranteed use throughout contract.

27. Reference specification section 010000, 1.7D: D. Working space and space available for storing materials shall be as determined by the Project Engineer/VA-COR. For pricing purposes could you please identify the lay down location?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

28. Reference specification section 13216.15; 1.1A: A. General: The Duration of Construction shall be 420 days from the Notice to Proceed. Please confirm the period of performance for the project is 600 calendar days from the notice to proceed as identified in the 1442.

RESPONSE: The completion timeframe shall be as indicated in amendment 1, 600 calendar days after receipt of NTP.

29. Reference specification section 013216.15; 1.9A: Contractor and their CPM consultant (if applicable) shall attend all monthly schedule update meetings. Can the scheduler attend via Webex providing live update for the team in lieu of monthly travel to the site?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

30. Reference specification section 013526; 1.7D: D. The SSHO or an equally-qualified Designated Representative/alternate will maintain a presence on the site during construction operations in accordance with FAR Clause 52.236-6: Superintendence by the Contractor. Can the SSHO have collateral duties and fill other roles for the GC such as Superintendent?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

31. Reference specification section 013526; 1.9B: B. A Certified Safety Professional (CSP) with specialized knowledge in construction safety or a certified Construction Safety and Health Technician (CSHT) shall randomly conduct a monthly site safety inspection. The CSP or CSHT can be a corporate safety professional or independently contracted. The CSP or CSHT will provide their certificate number on the required report for verification as necessary. Is this requirement in addition to the full time SSHO?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

32. Reference specification section 013533; 1.4.1A: A. All personnel are required to wear N95 respirators, disposable booties and coveralls when working inside the containment. These are to be removed when exiting the work area. Are these to be worn in any Class I, II, III, and IV?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

33. Reference specification section 014502: There was no mention of a requirement for a full time Quality Control Manager onsite at all times. What are the minimum onsite staff requirements for the General Contractor? Superintendent Only if qualified for other roles?

34. Reference specification section 014529; 1.1A: A. This section specifies materials testing activities and inspection services required during project construction to be provided by a Testing Laboratory retained by the Contractor. Please confirm if all inspections and testing are required by the General Contractor or the VA.

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements. However, the VAMC may, on occasion, engage testing services on their own and at their sole discretion, in which case section 010000 indicates the Contractor’s coordination requirements.

35. Reference specification section 014529; 3.9: 3.9 TYPE OF TEST. None of the quantities are filled in on the right for each test. For bidding purposes are any of these tests required to be paid for by the General Contractor and, if so, will the VA identify quantities?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

36. Reference specification section 017419: Where shall dumpsters be placed near the building for separation and disposal of waste?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

37. Reference specification section 017419: What is the route to be used from the contractor designated elevator to the outside of the building for disposal of waste?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

38. Reference specification section 019113: Will the VA or the GC provide the contract and costs for the CxA (Commissioning Agent, Commissioning Authority)?

RESPONSE: The Commissioning Agent has been engaged by the Architect. The Architect is carrying the cost of the Commissioning Agent within the A-E contract for services. The contractor shall coordinate with the CxA as specified but the cost of fulfilling the commissioning requirements and working with the CxA shall be carried by those trades responsible for systems to be commissioned.

39. Reference specification section 020900: The Lead-Containing Specification has been included in this RFP. There is no Lead-Containing Paint locations or quantities identified in the drawings or in the specification. As identified in the specification, enclosures, air sampling, and cleaning areas are required for encapsulation or removal of this item. For bidding purposes between GCs could you please provide a quantity and locations so that we are all bidding the same scope of work?

RESPONSE: No surface coating or material sampling for lead has been completed for this project. For bidding purposes assume that there are no Lead-Containing Paint locations, that encapsulation or removal of this item is not required, and material handling/removal will proceed in accordance with typical construction worker and building safety procedures. However, notify the Owner immediately to initiate testing should lead containing paint be discovered or suspected that cannot be handled in accordance with applicable OSHA regulations for worker protection. Upon completion of testing the contractor shall generate a cost proposal for removal to the extent that the procedure is any more cumbersome than normal safety protocol. Upon acceptance of the proposal for removal the contractor shall proceed with removal work in accordance with applicable VAMC and OSHA safety regulations.

40. Reference specification section 042000; 2.8A: A. Preconstruction testing: The Contractor will employ and pay a qualified independent testing laboratory to perform the following preconstruction testing indicated as well as other inspection and testing services required by referenced unit masonry standard or indicated herein for source quality control:

1. Mortar efflorescence: Test each mortar type which will be exposed to weather for efflorescence in accordance with the “Wick test” procedure in BIA Research Report Number 15, The Causes and Control of Efflorescence in Brickwork”, Section 4.4. Mortar mixes which show efflorescence shall not be used in the Work.

2. Mortar composition and properties will be field evaluated per ASTM C 780 for compressive strength, consistency, mortar aggregate ratio, water content, air content, and splitting tensile strength.

3. Grout compressive strength will be tested per ASTM C 1019 for compressive strength and slump.

QUESTION: These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

41. Reference specification section 054000: A. Testing: Owner will engage a qualified independent testing and inspecting agency to perform field tests and inspections and prepare test reports. Please verify these tests are provided by and paid for by the VA.

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements. However, the VAMC may, on occasion, engage testing services on their own and at their sole discretion, in which case section 010000 indicates the Contractor’s coordination requirements.

42. Reference specification section 078100; 3.5A: A. Independent Testing Agency field inspection will be performed under the provisions of Section 014500 - QUALITY CONTROL. These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

43. Reference specification section 078100; 3.5C: C. Inspection and testing shall verify that applied thickness and density meets manufacturer’s tested requirement standards for required fire-resistance ratings. These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

44. Reference specification section 078400; 1.6D: D. Special Inspections by Owners on-call Firestopping Installer: Allow for 3 percent of each type of firestopping system to be removed and inspected for conformance with approved submittals. Please confirm that these destructive inspections will be done by the VA's contracted testing agency.

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements. However, the VAMC may, on occasion, engage testing services on their own and at their sole discretion, in which case section 010000 indicates the Contractor’s coordination requirements.

45. Reference specification section 221300; 1.6B: Certification documentation shall be provided prior to submitting the request for final inspection. The documentation shall include all test results, the names of individuals performing work for the testing agency on this project, detailed procedures followed for all tests, and a certification that all results of tests were within limits specified. There is no requirement for third party testing of this system by a 3rd party testing agency within the specifications. Please clarify if all plumbing testing is to be performed by a 3rd party testing agency and who is to contract the testing agency. The VA or the GC?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

46. Reference specification section 226200; 1.1G: F. The contractor shall retain a qualified third party medical vacuum verifier acceptable to the engineer of record and VA to perform and attest to final verification of the systems. The contractor shall make all corrections as determined by this third party verifier, including additional testing if necessary, to attain full and unqualified certification at no additional time or cost to the Government. These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing & Certification is required after each phase of work or whenever any piping system modifications or new medical gas outlets are required or needed to be put into service. Such Testing & Certification shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor. The number of tests for each system or system component, including re-testing, shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

47. Reference specification section 226300; 1.5D: D. Laboratory and healthcare System Testing Organization: The testing shall be conducted by a party technically competent and experienced in the field of laboratory and healthcare pipeline testing. Testing and systems verification shall be performed by personnel meeting the qualifications of ASSE Standard Series 6000. Such testing shall be performed by a party other than the installing contractor. These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing & Certification is required after each phase of work or whenever any piping system modifications or new medical gas outlets are required or needed to be put into service. Such Testing & Certification shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor. The number of tests for each system or system component, including re-testing, shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

48. Reference specification section 280500; 3.7B3: 3. During the bidding process the contractor shall submit a request for information to the Owner to determine if a pre-delivery test will be required. If a pre-delivery test is not required, the contractor shall provide a written notification that the Pre-delivery Test is not required in their shop drawings submission. Will a pre-delivery test be required?

RESPONSE: A pre-delivery test is not required. However, all systems shall be fully tested and certified prior to Owner Occupancy. [The VAMC will need to review and validate this response]

49. Reference specification section 280513; 3.8A: A. Testing Agency: Engage a qualified testing agency to perform tests and inspections. These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

50. Reference specification section 281300; 3.10A1: 1. Testing Agency: Engage a qualified testing and inspecting agency to perform field tests and inspections and prepare test reports: These tests were not quantified in specification 01 45 29. Are these tests to be provided by the third party testing agency and paid for by the GC or the VA?

RESPONSE: Third Party Testing is required and shall be arranged and paid for by the Contractor to the extent that any of the work identified is performed on this project. The number of tests for each material shall be as indicated elsewhere in the project specifications or, if not indicated, as necessary to reliably demonstrate compliance with the requirements.

51. Reference the RFP: Under the Evaluation and Basis for Award - Relevant Experience, can you confirm how many projects are required to meet the solicitation's technical requirements?

RESPONSE: This is not based on the number, this is solely based on projects that have experience matching this requirement.

52. Reference the RFP: Under the Evaluation and Basis for Award - Technical Approach, can you confirm which key personnel are required to meet the solicitation's technical requirements?

RESPONSE: This is up to the contractor to decide which employees have the experience to perform this requirement.

53. Reference the RFP: Can one person fulfill two key personnel roles and if so, which ones can be fulfilled by the same person (Super/SSHO, Super/QCM, SSHO/QCM)?

54. Reference drawing 31-AS-401: Please clarify if the cabinets and countertop shown on elevation 31-AS-401 / 4 will be Modular (OFOI), similar to 31-AS-403 / 4.

RESPONSE: The cabinets and countertops shown on elevation 31-AS-401 / 4 will be furnished and installed by the contractor (CFCI).

55. Reference drawing 31-AS-401: Please confirm that the elevation detail similar to the one shown on 31-AS-401 / 3&5 is entirely a modular furniture piece (OFOI) and that the GC is not to provide any half wall partition and/or half wall cap material.

RESPONSE: This is correct. The modular assembly includes the countertop, half-height panelized partition and cap material depicted as dashed lines in the “Enlarged Plan at Team Station” Detail 1 on drawing 31-AS-401 and further clarified by the text box indicating “This portion of Nurse Station to be furnished and installed by Owner as Modular Furniture”.

56. Reference drawing 31-AS-401: Please confirm if the modular furniture pieces are going to be pre-wired for single point connection for tele/data and power or is the GC to remove cover panels and wire it accordingly.

RESPONSE: See note 14, drawing 31-EP-111.

57. Reference drawing 31-AS-417: Please clarify if the GF Team Station countertop on 31-AS-417 / 10 is Solid Surface or Plastic Laminate. If it is to be plastic laminate, please provide the appropriate finish code and also if it is post-formed or self-edge.

RESPONSE: Use horizontal plastic laminate veneer PL-C with post-formed front edge.

58. Reference specification section 070000: It is our understanding that the roof is still under warranty, please provide the name of the roofing contractor and/or manufacturer contact information.

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

59. Reference drawing 31-AS-418: Please confirm that the wardrobe lockers on the ground floor are to be OFOI, similar to the ones on the first floor. If these are to be provided by the GC, please provide a cross-section detail and the appropriate p-lam finish code.

RESPONSE: The ground floor lockers will be furnished and installed by the Owner (OFOI).

60. Reference specification section 024100: Can we use heavy equipment such as bobcats for interior demolition?

RESPONSE: The use of “heavy equipment” for interior demolition is prohibited. [The VAMC will need to review and validate this response. I suspect there are serious concerns relative to noise, vibrate, and indoor air quality – especially in such close proximity to active nursing units – and possibly structural capacity worries.]

61. Reference specification section 024100: Please confirm that elevators may be used to load & unload materials & debris, if so, can you provide cab sizes (Length, width, height)?

RESPONSE: [The VAMC will need to respond to this question.]

62. Reference drawing 31-AS-106 and specification section 117313: Please clarify if the patient lift systems are to be furnished and installed by the VA or the General Contractor. Notes on sheet 31-AS-106 say the owner shall arrange and pay for all associated costs for demolition and replacement (including structural components) for the ceiling mounted patient lift system.

RESPONSE: The General Contractor shall design, furnish, install and test new ceiling-mounted patient lift systems and associated structural support systems in all patient bedrooms. See Drawing 31-AS-501-PLS1, “Patient Lift System (Turn-Key Design Build)”.

63. Reference drawing 31-AS-106 and specification section 117313: If the GC is to provide the patient lift systems, please provide specifications, cross-sections, and any further details of the structural components required for the specified patient lift systems.

RESPONSE: The structural support systems for patient lift systems shall be engineered, furnished, and installed by the General Contractor. See Drawing 31-AS-501-PLS1, “Patient Lift System (Turn-Key Design Build)”.

64. Reference drawing 31-AS-106 and specification section 117313: If the GC is to provide the patient lift system, are you open to having different weight capacities for the Overhead / Ceiling lifts. The specifications request 1,000-lbS motors in every room, but in general that weight limit would be only for bariatric rooms as it would also require beds/ furniture in those rooms to match the weight capacity for those patients of size. Is it acceptable in the semi-private rooms to use lower weight capacity motors like 550-lbs?

RESPONSE: Provide a system based on 800-lbs design capacity with appropriate margin of safety.

65. Reference specification section 010000: Please provide a pdf with standard size set of plans. The current drawing set is at an 8.5 "x 11" format and cannot be scaled accurately. There are also some sheets that do not have an actual scale or have dimensions on them. If you go by the scale on the left side of the sheet, the plans are close but are still not accurate.

RESPONSE: Already addressed in amendment 2

66. Reference specification section 061000: Please provide a blocking detail for the curtain track above the ceiling.

RESPONSE: Install curtain track in accordance with the manufacturer’s printed instructions for the project-specific conditions.

67. Reference drawings 31-PD-1B1 and 31-PL-1B1: Please confirm that all Ground Floor plumbing work can be suspended on the underside of deck and within the ceiling of the Basement Floor. We are assuming that there are no tie-ins required in the slab-on-grade and this work can be done from existing risers coming out of slab-on-grade. Please confirm.

RESPONSE: Pursuant to drawing 31-PL-1B1, all new plumbing work to support the Ground Floor plumbing is to be installed in the Basement level ceiling and connected into existing lines in the ceiling level. This piping may be supported from the Basement level deck. No tie-ins are expected to be required in the slab-on-grade.

68. Reference specification section 020900: If there is lead paint on existing surfaces to remain, please provide the abatement method to be used or how it is to be encapsulated if it can remain.

RESPONSE: No surface coating or material sampling for lead has been completed for this project. For bidding purposes assume that there are no Lead-Containing Paint locations, that encapsulation or removal of this item is not required, and material handling/removal will proceed in accordance with typical construction worker and building safety procedures. However, notify the Owner immediately to initiate testing should lead containing paint be discovered or suspected that cannot be handled in accordance with applicable OSHA regulations for worker protection. Upon completion of testing the contractor shall generate a cost proposal for removal to the extent that the procedure is any more cumbersome than normal safety protocol. Upon acceptance of the proposal for removal the contractor shall proceed with removal work in accordance with applicable VAMC and OSHA safety regulations.

69. Reference drawing 31-AS-105B: Please verify the Asbestos Abatement scope and quantity – the report differs from the drawings relative to the mastic removal on the First Floor

RESPONSE: See revised drawing 31-AS-105B, Revision 1, and revised specification section 028211 ASBESTOS ABATEMENT, revised to correct scope and quantities.

70. Reference drawing 31-AS-106: Please confirm which walls may be terra cotta, as mentioned within the General Demolition Notes on 31-AS-106.

RESPONSE: The General Demolition Notes on drawing 31-AS-106 do not indicate the construction materials of walls scheduled to be removed. The bidder’s reference is unclear.

71. Reference drawing 31-AS-109: Please confirm extent of scope for headwall removal in Note 7 in Nurses area on Ground Floor or provide a diagram.

RESPONSE: The existing headwall is a surface-mounted modular panel. See attached PDF containing 2 photos depicting this condition, 2 pages included.

72. Reference drawing 31-AS-107: On page 31-AS-106 – First Floor Demo Plan it states on the drawings “Do not remove gypsum wall board, maintain 2 hr rating at existing interior column” at all 8 column locations. On page 31-AS-107 – Fireproofing Plan, the same columns have instructions of “Structural Steel Columns: Verify and Maintain existing 2 Hr. Fire rated protection at columns. Provide 2 Hr. Fire rate, Spray Applied Cementitious Fire Proofing at All unprotected column surfaces”. Please clarify if we are fireproofing the columns or are we only fireproofing the beams. If we are spraying the columns, please provide the columns sizes.

RESPONSE: All exposed portions of building structural steel (columns, beams, girders, trusses, etc.) shall be fire-proofed. To the extent that existing columns are currently exposed or become exposed during demolition activities the contractor shall protect them with 2-hour spray-applied fire-proofing or equivalent. A PDF of the scanned “as-built” structural drawings is attached, 12 pages.

73. Reference drawing 31-AS-107: Are there any as-built structural plans available?

RESPONSE: A PDF of the scanned “as-built” structural drawings is attached, 12 pages.

74. Reference drawing 31-AS-109: The Deduct Alternate # 5 directs bidders to delete work associated with (Desk -80) which is located in the SW corner of the first floor. Drawing (31-AS-109) that is referred to is the ground floor in the SE corner of the project. Please clarify what scope of work is to be a deduct. Please clarify the extent of work within the Desk -80 area that is to be included in the deduct.

RESPONSE: The drawing reference is incorrect. See Deductive Alternate DA-5 drawings dated April 16, 2018, 10 drawings total, in addition to the written summary contained in the RFP, for DA-5 scope of work. The DA-5 drawings are numbered as follows: 31-AS-109-DA5, 31-PP-113-DA5, 31-MD-113-DA5, 31-MH-113-DA5, 31-M-505-DA5, 31-ED-113-DA5, 31-EP-113-DA5, 31-EL-113-DA5, 31-E-803-DA5, 31-E-804-DA5.

75. Given there was no opportunity to view above the ceiling during site visits, can the VA confirm if spray fireproofing currently exists in locations required by the solicitation documents? Requiring patch & repair for new work. Or is spray fireproofing a new installation?

RESPONSE: The spray-applied fireproofing is a new installation. See attached representative photograph, 1 page.

76. 31-MD-011 phasing sequence is different than AS-31-104. Please advise on the required sequence including coordinating direction.

RESPONSE: The Phasing Plan is diagrammatic, illustrating the general intent. However, the precise sequencing of activities shall be coordinated with the Owner to ensure that access to the ICU is preserved at all times, that all other Owner priorities are accommodated and that the M/E/P/FP support systems are fully-functional whenever a space or zone is occupied. This may include modifying the order of the 1st floor phasing from that shown on drawing 31-AS-104.

77. On the ground floor bedrooms, should the lockers that are shown on 3,5/AS-31-418 be bid as millwork?

RESPONSE: The lockers will be Owner-furnished and installed (OFOI).

78. Please confirm that there are no plastic laminate headwalls in the ground floor bedrooms.

RESPONSE: This is correct. See drawing AS-31-420 for the Ground Floor head wall elevations.

79. At the private rooms there is an upper cabinet with double wall cabinets and a pass thru cabinet with two flip down doors. (See 2/AS-407 and 6/AS-902). The detail calls for an “Interlock Mechanism”. Can you provide the manufacturer and model number for this hardware? Also, does this cabinet need to be UL Listed?

RESPONSE: The intent is that the interlock will be mechanical so that no UL listing is required. However, we have not yet found the best configuration of hardware to achieve this. Suggestions are welcome. The functional intent is similar to “FirmLok” mechanical interlocks such as commonly found in pharmaceutical pass-through cabinetry with the following attributes:

· Prevents contamination by ensuring that only one pass-through door at a time can open

· The moment a door is opened, the opposing latch engages a stainless steel catch to lock out the opposing door

· Dual heavy-gauge latch mechanisms retract inside the easy-clean stainless steel housing when not engaged, eliminating protruding hardware that collects contaminants and causes snags

80. At Elevation 2/AS-407, there is Wall Mounted Handwashing Sink. Is this a millwork item or is this a buyout sink by the plumbing contractor?

RESPONSE: The patient room handwash fixtures will be integral solid surface countertops and basins provided…