36C24224R0071 0004.docx

5. PROJECT NUMBER (if applicable)

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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 NUMBERED 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 amendment, 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

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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.

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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.)

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

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

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AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

08/19/2024

528A8-809

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 2 2875 Union Road Suite 3500 Cheektowaga NY 14227

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office (NCO) 2 2875 Union Road Suite 3500 Cheektowaga NY 14227 To all Offerors/Bidders

36C24224R0071 08-19-2024

X

X

X 08/26/2024 at 12:00 EST

See attached.

Michael Spivack

This amendment answers the following vendor questions:

1. Please provide a detail for soldier pile wall / steel sheeting noted on drawing 1-SS-100 A. Temporary piling shall be designed by a delegated engineer. Contractor to submit engineered shop drawings for review and record. See drawing 1-SS-100 and spec section 0310000 part 3.2 below

2. Regarding the upcoming bid for the New Emergency Department Albany VAMC Project, I have snipped the paragraph below from the Project Documents, Section 033020 "Concrete Slab on Grade", Page 7, Paragraph 2.3 G. “Integral Water Vapor Reducing Admixture (WVRA)”. The project cannot be bid by a contractor as specified.

The Products currently listed need to be updated per the details below:

· "Barrier One, Inc." filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation in 2023. This company name no longer exists. The company has reorganized under the new name "Barrier One Concrete Admixtures" and a new product name "CPS Moisture Vapor Reducing Admixture". Please update to minimize confusion.

· “Vapor Lock 20/20” is a Canadian Company and will not meet “Buy American” standards if required. Warranty is limited to 10 years.

· "Moxie International" no longer manufacturers "1800 Super-Admix, or a WVRA product for slabs.

Consequently, there may be only one product reference standard for a contractor to base their bid.

A. The products and manufactures specified meet the intended requirements for elevated slab floor slabs; ASTM E 96- Water Vapor Transmission and ASTM D5084 Waterproofing. Section 033020 part 2.3.G shall be changed to read:

G. Integral Water Vapor-Reducing Admixture (WVRA): Sodium silicate admixtures by “Vapor Lock 20/20” by Specialty Products Group (SPG);

“Barrier One” by Barrier Concrete Admixtures ; “Moxie Shield 1800 Admixture ” by Moxie International; with the following minimum performance:

3. Some RFI answers to the previous solicitation RFI’s for this project add a very substantial cost. For example, there was an RFI about the note in the sub-basement regarding stainless steel conduit and boxes in the crawl space. RFI response clarified that ALL conduit and boxes in the sub-basement are to be stainless steel. Please clarify if previous New Emergency Dept. solicitation RFI responses are to be considered for this rebid. If so, please include them in the bid documents.

A. The following RFIs from the previous two postings of this requirement are still considered valid under this solicitation:

i. The drilled pier P17 has details on 1-SS-200 Detail 7, 1-SS-202 Detail 1, and P17 Detail on 1-SS-203. I don’t see diameter dimensions; can you provide diameter dimensions for the P17 drilled pier?

Drilled piers are not used as foundation elements. Section 7/1-SS-200 can be ignored as it is not used. Pier P17 is a column support pier at S/10 and is detailed in Section 11/1-SS-200. Pier diameter is shown on Drawing 1-SS-203.

ii. Does VA Albany have a preferred Patient Lift System?

a. Albany VAMC’s preferred make/model of patient lift systems is Guldmann GH3+. General contractors can contact Guldmann Senior Product Specialist Kevin De Jong at kde@guldmann.net and (973) 727-5256.

NURSE CALL QUESTIONS:

iii. How many EQ Jacks in total are needed for each patient room. 2 or 3?

a. Please provide 3 EQ jacks per each patient room.

iv. Do we want Graphical stations for all the staff stations?

a. No, only provide stations as shown on the drawings plus the 3 rooms stated in questions 5,6, and 8.

v. Where is the new IDF closet Located? What is the distance from that location to the existing Hillrom IDF closet?

a. The new IDF closet is located in the basement in BioMed room E005 shown on drawing 1-ES-302. The existing IDF closet is in room C61 ~230’ away shown on 1&3/1-ES-302.

vi. Is the CB in 102A North Hallway valid? If so, where should dome lights be placed

a. No, remove call button in 102A North Hallway.

vii. In Clean Utility E131 staff Station is required per FGI Guidelines. Plans Do not show it, should we add it?

a. Yes, please add.

viii. In Meds rooms E134 staff Station is required per FGI Guidelines. Plans Do not show it, should we add it?

a. Yes, please add.

ix. Ante Room De Con E114 it only has Dome light associated on Inside of the door in E115, we expect dome lights to also be at the outside door near the corridor. Should we add that?

a. Yes, add dome light (P2506NNC1B00) outside of Ante room E115 leading into corridor E127/E128.

x. Soiled Holding E137 is calling for Bathroom switch and a single dome light, where we expect Staff station and No Dome light, what would you like in this location?

a. Remove the emergency bathroom switch and single dome light and add staff station in Soiled Holding E137.

xi. Storage E147 Calls for dome light, which is redundant and not expected, what would you like in this location?

a. Remove dome light over door to Storage room E147.

xii. Control Room E152 Has single dome lights which are unexpected and not needed, Should They remain?

a. Remove single dome lights over doors within Control Room E152.

xiii. Ct E151 and x-ray E153 Have CB Buttons, would you like to add Staff emergency buttons as well?

a. Yes, add staff emergency buttons for rooms E151 and E153.

CEILING LIFTS QUESTIONS:

xiv. To achieve a 1,000 lb. lift capacity, is a dual rail, dual motor option acceptable?

a. Dual rail, dual motor option is acceptable.

HANDRAIL QUESTIONS:

xv. Dwg 4/1-GS-101 shows detail for handrail at sidewalk. However, the location and extent of it is not shown on the drawings. Please advise.

a. Handrail to start at intersection with drop-off area sidewalk and proceed up walkway to plaza area.

xvi. Please confirm is the handrail is required on both sides of the sidewalk and concrete steps.

a. Refer to detail 1/1-GS-101 notes #2 and #3.

MECHANICAL QUESTION:

xv. Drawings 1-MH-100 and 1-MH-100B show a 2” LPS riser up to AHU-ED-1. Drawings 1-MH-601 and 1-MH-602 show a 3” LPS line. Can you confirm which is correct?

a. The 2” LPS is the correct size for the AHU-ED-1 humidifier.

CEILING LIFT QUESTION:

xvi. The documents state “Patient Lift Track Locations (Support Structure by Contractor, Track and Lifts by VA)”. Patient lift systems provided by vendors include all structure (from deck down), track and lifts. They cannot be separated as the support structure needs to be installed by the same company providing the Lifts and tracks. All installers of this equipment need to be trained and certified by lift vendor. Can you provide some clarification on this. Thank you

a. The Stratton VA Medical Center will purchase the patients lifts and tracks separately, with installation being performed by Guldmann. This will be considered Government Furnished Property.

The prime contractor is required perform the necessary site preparation for the future installation. The site preparation includes the coordination and construction of the respective above-ceiling supports of each patient lift system, and the Contractor must provide the necessary utility tie-ins for each patient lift. The Contractor will also be responsible for acquiring stamped design calculations and drawings, to install the above-ceiling supports.

To construct the above-ceiling supports, the Contractor must subcontract a 3rd party installer who is certified by Guldmann; this requires the installer to complete Guldmann’s on-site installation course, conducted at their Tampa, FL office.

The Contractor shall incorporate Guldmann’s patient lift systems within the Contractor’s coordination drawings.

xvii. Please advise if there is a Geotechnical report available for this project.

a. Please see attached Geotech Report (Albany VAMC Geotech Report for New ED).

xviii. In the plan documents, would you be able to call out where the bullet resistant and blast rated windows/storefronts are located? Is everything going to be blast rated? Also, is there anything that does list what is ballistic, or blast rated maybe in the windows and door schedule?

a. The glass types for windows and curtain walls are tagged on the window schedule on drawing 1-AS902. The glass types for doors are called out in the door schedule 1-AS901 under the glass heading. See specification section 088000 Glazing for a description of each glass type. Please see attached specifications 088000 Glazing 8-18-22 and 084113 Aluminum Framed Entrances and Storefront 8-18-22.

This addendum contains changes to the requirements of the Contract Documents. Such changes are to be incorporated into the Construction Documents and shall apply to the Work with the same meaning and force as if they had been included in the original documents. Wherever this Amendment modifies a portion of a paragraph in the Specifications or a portion of any Drawing, the remainder of the paragraph or Drawing shall remain in force.

Specifications The following specifications sections have been revised to provide additional clarifications:

1. Section 084113 Aluminum Framed Entrances and Storefront A. ADD the following:

Section 2.2.B.3.b 4) thru 6)

4) All glazing in exterior aluminum framed fenestration systems must meet the blast performance requirements stated in Section 088000 of the specifications. Frames and mullions must meet the blast resistant design requirements for Mission Critical facilities per Section 6.3.1 of the VA Physical Security and Resilience Design Manual (2020). The blast design must follow the requirements shown below:

a) The frames and mullions must be designed to resist a design blast load of 13.5 psi peak reflected pressure and 51 psi-msec reflected impulse applied over the tributary area of the member while sustaining maximum deformations no greater than L/40 (or 3 degrees support rotation). In addition, the frames and mullions must be designed to resist the balanced blast load (maximum blast load capacity of the weakest lite of supported glass), but no less than the design blast load, while sustaining maximum deformations no greater than L/20 (or 6 degrees support rotation).

b) The frames and mullions must be designed using dynamic analysis methods per Section 6.7.3 of the VA Physical Security and Resilience Design Manual (2020). Alternatively, glazed aluminum framed systems may be certified through testing (Standard Test Method for Glazing Systems Subject to Airblast Loadings ASTM F1642) against the specified design blast load. The tested assembly must be demonstrated to be sufficiently similar in glazing layup, mullions, frames, connections, and hardware to that being constructed for the project.

5) Connections between framing members and connections of the frame members to the supporting structure must be designed to resist the applied blast loads and develop the maximum flexural capacity of the supported members.

6) Blast Performance Requirements:

a) Blast analysis and design calculations must be performed by a licensed professional engineer with a minimum of five years of professional experience in blast-resistant design. Design submittals must include a blast narrative and supporting calculations, and must be signed and stamped by the professional engineer responsible for their preparation

2. Section 088000 - Glazing ADD the following:

Section 1.4.D. 1 thru 4

D. Blast Performance Requirements: All glazing for all exterior windows, curtainwalls, storefronts and glazed doors must be designed to meet the blast-resistant design requirements for Mission Critical facilities per Section 6.3.1 of the VA Physical Security and Resilience Design Manual (2020). The blast design must follow the requirements shown below:

1. The exterior glazing must be designed to achieve a glass Performance Condition 2 (i.e. glass may crack but must remain attached to the frame) in response to a design blast load of 13.5 psi peak reflected pressure and 51 psi-msec reflected impulse. The design of the glazing must be done using dynamic analysis methods.

2. The dynamic analysis must be performed using window glazing blast analysis and design software developed by the US Government, such as SBEDS-W or WINGARD PE, which are capable of predicting the glass, film, and laminate response when subjected to the blast loading environment. The dynamic analysis must use a glass probability of failure (POF) of 500 breaks per 1000. In addition, the blast analysis must include calculation of the maximum capacity of the glazing (maximum blast load resulting in Performance Condition 2) for balanced design purposes.

3. All exterior glazing must use laminated glass (for IGU, laminated glass is required only for the inner lite). A minimum 1/2" bite and a continuous 3/8” bead of structural silicone adhesive shall be provided to develop post-damage glazing capacity. Alternatively, a dry glazed system can be used if the adequacy to meet the above blast-resistant design requirements is demonstrated by dynamic analysis.

4. Blast analysis and design calculations must be performed by a licensed professional engineer with a minimum of five years of professional experience in blast-resistant design.

Add the following:

Section 3.9.A

Glass Type IL# 1 Tinted, low-e coated insulating laminated glass.

1. Overall Unit Thickness: 25 mm (1 inch)

2. Outdoor Lite: Tinted annealed float glass, except heat-strengthened float glass where required, and fully tempered float glass where indicated.

a. Minimum Thickness of Outdoor Lite: 6 mm (0.23 inch).

b. Tint Color: Gray

3. Interspace Content: Argon

4. Indoor Lite: Clear laminated glass with two lites of annealed float glass, except heat-strengthened float glass where required, and fully tempered float glass where indicated.

a. Minimum Thickness of Each Glass Lite: 6 mm (0.23 inch).

b. Interlayer Thickness:1.52 mm (0.060 inch).

5. Low-E Coating: Sputtered on second surface.

6. Safety glazing label required.

7. Windborne debris-resistant glazing unit required.

8. Blast Resistance: Provide units meeting the following:

a. GP Value As provided by Owner and coordinated with blast report.

xix. Reference drawing 5/1-SS-201. Can you provide an elevation of bottom of grade beam to determine if sheeting is required?

a. Assume top of pile cap is bottom of grade beam. Existing building drawings are available by request. See attached

xx. Based on the underlying very soft clay soils a Soldier pile wall will be very challenging/risky.

Due to the design/build and support of excavation aspects of the project, we are requesting a 2-week extension to allow enough time to pre-engineer the design and price accordingly.

Base bid & Alt 1: Footings at G-4, 5, 8, 9, 12 are too close to the existing tunnel to install the Support of Excavation (SOE). The SOE could be installed but the footings would not be able to be constructed adjacent to the tunnel.

Alt 5: these new footings appear to be more offset of the existing tunnel however may be problematic.

To design the SOE system, we would require the loading information of the tunnel (i.e. tunnel pressure) along with any surcharge loading information.

a. Response: By delegated designer.

xxi. What are the SOE movement tolerances?

a. By delegated designer.

xxii. How much weight can the tunnel take from above? With Alt 5 it would require the rig to walk on top of the tunnel to install the SOE.

a. Unknown. Delegated designer to determine. Shop drawings of the Precast tunnel structure are available by request

xxiii. Are tie backs allowed for this project?

a. This would need to be reviewed. Depends on location, etc.

xxiv. VA Request: Add two shutoff valves on new 2” Medium Pressure steam (MPS) line and one shutoff valve on 1-1/2” Low pressure condensate return (LPR) in basement.

a. Contractor to provide two shutoff valves on new 2” Medium Pressure steam (MPS) line and one shutoff valve on 1-1/2” Low pressure condensate return (LPR) line in basement. Location to be determined in field by VA COR.

xxv. VA Request: Existing door serving room 103 is shown being removed. This appears to be a plaster wall. Please verify that the new wall is suitable for connection to the existing wall.

a. Door infill shall be wall type J18 (1HR.) Add additional metal stud furring as required to match existing wall thickness. Wall finish to match adjacent.

xxvi. Add additional outlets in corridor E156 for powered wheelchairs.

a. See attached drawing ES-101.

xxvii. Remove Fan coil unit located in room 103 & associated piping and electrical.

a. See revised drawings MD-101 & ED-101. Areas clouded as pre-bid clarification.

xxviii. I do not see any automatic operators in the hardware groups, plans or schedule, yet there is a specification for them.

1. Are any of the swing doors requiring automatic door operators, if so which Doors/ HWG?

a. Door E157 just changed to swing doors with automatic operators. New door hardware set 14 attached.

xxix. The specification is very generic for the HWG 00A doors type GS1 and GS3

a. These doors are covered by the specification 083213 ICU Sliding Glass Doors.

xxx. 1-Are any of the doors to be automatic?

a. No. All swing doors are manual.

xxxi. 2-What is the finish and finish warranty?

a. See Specification section 083213-1.9 for warranty information. See specification section 083213-2.11 for door finish information.

xxxii. 3-What glass is to be in the doors? Standard clear tempered?

a. Clear Tempered. See Specification section 083213-2.1B.

xxxiii. 4-What is the warranty for these doors?

a. Response: See Specification section 083213-1.9.

xxxiv. Automatic sliding doors for HWG 00 doors # E100 – E111B – E157

a. Door Schedule Correction: Door E111 shall be changed from hardware type 00A to hardware type 00.

xxxv. 1-Are any of the doors to be blast rated? If so please provide stand off distance and required rating?

a. Response: Yes, all exterior doors are to be blast rated. Standoff Distance 50’. See Specifications 084113 and 084413.

xxxvi. 2-Is there a less generic specification for these doors? Finish? Warranty? etc….

a. The automatic sliding door units are specified in section 087113 for related information.

xxxvii. 3-Which doors require electric locking?

a. Of the automatic sliding doors, doors E100, E111B, E157 shall all have electronic locking hardware with a key switch override. See Specification section 087113-2.5.

Pre-fab metal canopies:

xxxviii. In review of the contract drawings GS-101 & GS-906 concerning the pre-fab metal canopies, The post supported drawings and the plans don’t match up. I see 2 hanger rod canopies. 1 @ 5’ x 7’6” and 1 @ 5’ x 6’, please clarify what style is intended. Also please provide applicable specification section too.

a. Details shown on 1-GS-906 shall be used as a basis-of-design for the covered walkway only, from the existing main entrance to the new ED lower entrance as shown on 1-GS-101 (Deduct Alternate #2). For details concerning the lower entrance and ambulance canopies, refer to architectural and structural plans.

See updated specification 055000 Metal Fabrications, attached, for additional details.

xxxix. Please provide manufacturer and nameplate information for the following existing panels: Switchboard B, CR-EDP, EDP-BCLS. These panels will all be getting new breakers to feed the new panels being installed and this information is needed for us to provide the correct breakers.

a. See attachments for nameplate & breaker information

xl. Is the breaker in existing panel EDP-Main EQ feeding new panel EDP-EQ-480 existing, or is a new breaker needed? If a new breaker is needed, please provide the manufacturer and nameplate information for EDP-Main EQ so we can have the correct breaker priced.

a. Yes, a new breaker is needed as indicated on 1-ES-601. See attachments for nameplate & breaker information for EDP-Main EQ panel xli. There are 18 Bollard light fixture as well as 1 new “LP-90” light pole fixture shown on the utility plan 1-GS-201. These fixtures are not listed on the fixture schedule in the electrical drawings. Assuming that these are to be provided and installed by the EC, please provide the manufacturer and model number for these fixtures.

a. Refer to sheet 1-GS-601 site plan: lighting plan for light fixture details. It appears this sheet might have been cut off. See attached for the full sheet.

xlii. There is a note on the structural drawing that indicates Sloped decking, but most details show Tapered Insulation. Which areas are Structurally sloped, and which require tapered insulation?

a. This project does not have sloped roof structure / deck. Roof slopes are created with tapered insulation. Omit erroneous note referring to sloped steel on drawing 1-AS-103 near EF-ED-7.

xliii. We would like to know if we could mount the Controllers inside the AHU or someplace near it as opposed to in room S15 or S1. At present there is ~34,000 ft of cable estimated to run wire for all the points listed on the 4 AHU’s. The distance is over 300ft and could cause Communication issues or voltage drops. This will cause a huge jump in price and provides zero benefit to the end user.

a.

xliv. If you need me to go direct I can – sometimes they don’t respond to subs.

a. Delete General Note #1 on 1-MH-402. Replace note #1 as follows: “1. Controller(s) for AHU-1 and 2 shall be installed in a locked enclosure in their respective service AHU vestibules. 120V/20 amp. circuit in enclosures for control panel is provided as shown on electrical drawings, controls contractor to provide step down transformers as required for equipment provided. Controller(s) for AHU-3 and 4 shall be installed in basement area. Electrical Contractor to provide120V/20 amp. circuit (not shown on drawings – see Q22) for HVAC control panels on walls near AHU-ED-3 and AHU-ED-4, controls contractor to provide step down transformers as required for equipment provided and run low voltage wiring. Coordinate all locations with COR. All controllers shall communicate and be connected to BMS ALC Panels in Rooms S15 or S1.

xlv. Since the existing system is being added on to for Nurse Call can you please provide the name and contact information for the Hill-Rom System representative that handles the facility?

a. Hillrom is now part of Baxter. Representative is Christian Kramer, Christian_Kramer@Baxter.com, 716-308-6716. Underscore between Christian and Kramer.

Fire Alarm Device Clarification:

xlvi. In referencing drawing ES-300 and ES-301, please clarify the clouded FA device symbols in attached respective drawings.

a. The symbols clouded are speaker-strobes. Refer to dwg. 1-ES-001, “legend & schedule of fire alarm equipment” for more information.

xlvii. There is a note in detail #2 on the referenced drawing stating that the junction boxes and conduits in the crawl space are required to be stainless steel. Does this include all fasteners and hardware? Can it be clarified to what extent the conduits shown are to be included as stainless? Is it the entire detail other than in Electric rooms? The note only points to the conduits from the pullbox located on the exterior wall which is the entry from exterior.

a. All conduits & junction boxes in the sub-basement level shall be stainless steel. There are short runs through electrical rooms, so include the entire floor as stainless steel. Fasteners & hangers shall also be stainless steel.

xlviii. The new primary conduits and site lighting conduits are depicted crossing over the existing geothermal well runs. What depth are the geothermal runs buried? This is especially important for the primary conduits which are detailed to be buried deeper.

a. It has been reported that the top of the geothermal wells are capped at approximately 5’ below grade. Detail 5/1-ES-702 for primary conduits are to be at 2’ below grade. The primary conduits will be above the geothermal wells. This area will need to be carefully dug out by hand through this area. The conduits shall be placed to best avoid being directly over the geothermal wells as best as possible.

xlix. There are multiple notes on the drawings stating to coordinate with the VA security vendor and then there are other notes that state to furnish and install security items. Also notes to retain the VA security vendor. Please clarify what the scope is in regards to security on this project and if we are to include the quotation from the VA security vendor please provide his contact information.

a. Coordinate with the VA security vendor for connecting or matching the existing system & devices. The contractor shall also furnish & install these items. Current vendor is Stanley/Securitas. All card readers and cameras shall be same type and brand as used in the medical center. Any contractor can install these items and pull wiring. Adirondack and OSI are the contractors that have installed wiring and devices previously. No matter who does the installation they will need to coordinate with the VA police on IP and MAC addresses.

l. Notes #1 and #2 on Drawing 1-ES-100 state to provide service panels for non IT loads. It also states they are to be metered and a monitored solution is preferred.

Can you please clarify what the scope is in regards to these panels. If they are to be furnished as part of the electrical scope what are the specs for the panels? Voltage? Amperage? # of Circuits? AIC Rating? Feeder size? Feeder source?

Also can you please provide a specification and description of what is requested for the metering and where it is supposed to be monitored from?

a. These panels are to be installed as part of the electrical scope. Keyed note #1 panel is to be used for the room air conditioning & keyed note #2 panel used for rack power. A separate meter shall be installed on each panel for monitoring this panels use. Use a non-utility meter for the monitored solution, such as an emon meter or approved equal. Coordinate with the VA COR for the system used to monitor these panels.

li. Multiple rooms are highlighted with a dashed box and given a detail number to see what is to be included in each room. Exam rooms are typical of multiple rooms. Rooms E143 & 144 are highlighted in the same way with no detail provided. What is the purpose of those rooms being highlighted?

a. Disregard the dashed box around rooms E143 & E144. The power devices to be installed in these rooms are shown on 1-ES-101.

lii. 1. Where are the secondary Code Blue Annunciation Locations and what are the room numbers? (ex: Police Station, Control Center)

2. From the dedicated closet room E005 what is the distance from the Code Blue secondary annunciation locations?

3. Will the new Nurse Call Head Location be in the IDF BioMed Closet E005 or is there a location that can be utilized within the Unit Space?

4. If the Nurse Call headend closet is in the basement IDF Closet E005 will there be any stations that exceed 330ft?

a. The police station & control center are located on the ground floor off the lobby in wing A, approximately 350’ away from room E005. The nurse call head location shall be located in Albany VAMC 6th floor, room D611. Contractor will need to pull fiber optic from closet E005 to this location.

liii. On the site demolition plan 1-GS-100 there is a note saying to remove existing junction box located in what will be the middle of the new road in front of the addition. It appears to feed site lighting. What exactly is the scope for removing this? Do the circuits need to be relocated / extended to maintain continuity to whatever it is that it is feeding? What is the size of conduits/conductors that may need to be extended?

a. Refer to note regarding junction box installation on 1-GS-101.

liv. Who is the current access control vendor for the VA? The electrical legend 1-ES-001 states to coordinate with the VA access control vendor for the new system but does not list who that vendor is. Nor does it appear to be listed in the specs.

a. The current access control vendor for the VA is Securitas Stanley. VA contact is Ben Thompson (518) 227-1829.

lv. After reviewing the specs and drawings I have not been able to locate a signage schedule, can you kindly provide one or possibly point me in the correct direction.

a. The signage schedule is located on the two signage plans (1-AS-907 AND 1-AS-908) A graphical description of each sign type is shown at the end signage specification 101400, starting on page 16.

lvi. Referencing para 1.1 on section 23 21 13 and 3.1/e on section 23 81 23.

Since all the HVAC piping is interior, the risers into the RTU’s are entering heated vestibules, and there is no description as to what’s in the current piping systems we’re connecting into, please advise where would be the need for any glycol additives? None of the piping is designated as glycol piping.

a. By this addendum; In 232113 Hydronic Piping: Delete 232113 1.1.A “3. Glycol-water piping.” Delete any reference in 238123 Computer-Room Air-Conditioners that refers to Glycol solutions, pump packages and dry cooler. These units are split refrigerant-based system as scheduled on Drawing 1-MH-802 Ductless Split-System Units.

lvii. The fire alarm detail (Detail 6) on drawing 1-ES-701 states to provide conduit stubs up to ceiling space where branch is to convert to plenum rated cable back to FAP. The specifications state to use RED EMT for fire alarm branch wiring. Which wiring method will be required for this project?

a. Change note 6 on 1-ES-701 from plenum rated wire to be red EMT to match the specification.

lviii. The cable tray detail (Detail 4) on drawing 1-ES-702 depicts ladder style tray and shows each section being bonded. The specifications state to use basket style tray and do not reference bonding sections. Which is correct? Also the specs call out for 4” load depth yet the floor plan drawing states the tray is 18” width x 6” load depth. Which is correct?

a. Detail 4/1-ES-702 is to be removed. Follow the specifications for the basket style tray. Follow the design drawings for the larger 6” load depth.

lix. Where is 120V/20A circuit for HVAC controllers in basement for AHU-3 &4?

a. By this addendum (work not shown on drawings) Electrical Contractor (EC) to provide 120V/20A circuit from spare circuit 84 on power panel ED-CR Section 2. Circuit to HVAC control panels on walls near AHU-ED-3 and AHU-ED-4. Coordinate locations with HVAC Controls Contractor and COR.

lx. Are the medium voltage pad mount transformers supposed to be 750kva or 1000kva? The drawings issued under amendment #1 show them as 1000lva and the drawings issued in amendment #2 show them as 750kva. Please advise.

a. They are 1000kva.

lxi. The light pole detail (Detail 1) on drawing 1-GS-601 depicts an aluminum pole but the part number on the schedule starts with SSS, which is the acronym for Square Straight Steel. The specifications do not clarify. Which is correct?

a. The basis-of-design light pole for fixture “B” is intended to be SSS as indicated in the site lighting schedule to match existing parking lot/sidewalk poles.

lxii. The lighting controls will be run in general run parallel to the power branch wiring for the lighting. According to the manufacturer this system uses Cat 5e type cable for the lighting controls which is acceptable to run open style. Is it acceptable for this control cabling to be strapped to the branch conduit or will the control wiring be required to be in a separate conduit system? The cables are a pre-terminated system and therefore will require larger conduit than the branch power for the lighting. Specifications mention control wiring with #14 THHN which requires conduit however it does not mention Low Voltage CAT 5e type cable.

a. strapping pre-terminated system control wiring to the conduits is acceptable for manufactures pre-terminated lighting control wiring. Wiring types are shown on 1-ES-701.

lxiii. Para 3.3 /D on Spec section 07 21 13 Calls States; "Floor Assemblies Above Unconditioned Spaces: 1. Apply spray foam insulation to underside of horizontal surfaces.", however, architectural drawings are not calling for such insulation, please clarify whether underside of first floor would require such insulation or not.

a. See drawing 1-AS-703. The floor area above the basement exit will require spray foam insulation.

Drilled Concrete Piers lxix. spec section 31 63 29 is for Drilled Concrete Piers; however, we couldn't find where these piles are on the foundation drawings, please clarify.

a. Drilled piers removed from project. This spec section no longer applies.

lxx. Arch & Structural drawings are calling for footing drain along the perimeter of the new building, however, site drawings don’t depict which manhole this footing drain is connected to, please clarify.

a. Refer to SMH-7 INV (C) and SMH-12 INV (B) on 1-GS-201.

lxxi. Please confirm that the 12'20' decontamination trailer shown on 1-GS-101 is to be provided and installed by government.

a. The decontamination trailer is to be supplied by the VA.

lxxii. Please clarify if the 1000-Gal decontamination Tank shown on 1-GS-101 is to be provided and installed by government or contractor? if contractor is to provide the tank, please provide specification, and clarify if the tank should be eliminated for deduct #4.

a. Contractor shall provide and install the 1,000-GAL decontamination tank and necessary connections as part of the base bid and is not included in deduct alternate #4. Specification shown on detail 10/1-GS-905.

lxxiii. Drawings 1-SS-100X series drawings show requirement for Drilled in Soldier Piles and lagging for TEMPORARY SHORING of EXCAVATIONS show @ existing utility tunnel and west side of the site, please clarify if shoring would be required on south side of the site also.

a. Temporary shoring shown on west side of site because excavation may begin to encroach on access road. If contractor feels excavation may encroach on roadway access or other site structures located to the south of the site then temporary shoring should be installed there too. Also, all excavation shoring design is delegated to the Contractor.

lxxiv. Detail 5/1-SS-201 calls for steel sheet plate, please advise where this section is applicable, also provide size and thickness for the steel plate.

a. Sheeting designed by a delegated engineer hired by Contractor. See note on 1-SS-100.

lxxv. Detail 4/1-SS-300 calls for slide bearing steel plate, please provide size and thickness for the steel plate and how it’s to be anchored to existing concrete.

a. Attachment of plate to structure and plan size of plate is shown in Section 4/1-SS-300. Assume ½-inch plate thickness. Also see Products in Spec Section 051200.

lxxvi. Please advise where is detail 1 on drawing 1-SS-301 is applicable, we could not find it referenced on framing plans.

a. See Roof Framing Plan Note 9. Applies mostly to roof drain frames, exhaust fan support frames, etc.

lxxvii. Please confirm that detail 1 on drawing 1-SS-400 is a typical detail applicable to all exterior walls framing only and not interior walls.

a. Yes, this framing elevation applies to exterior walls only. See arch drawings for interior wall framing requirements.

lxxviii. Drawing 1-MD-100 reference drawing 1-HA-100, the latter is listed on GI-001 as page #18, however Bid Set Part#1 has 1-SS-103 instead of 1-HA-100. Please provide missing 1-HA-100, and confirm that 1-SS-103 on Bid Set Part#1 is redundant.

a. 1-HA-100 is attached and 1-SS-103 is redundant.

lxxix. Roofing details on 1-M-702 & 1-M-704 are different than roofing details on 1-AS-801, please clarify which one to follow.

a. Detail 2, & 7 on drawing 1-AS-801 can be omitted. Use details on mechanical drawings for roof top equipment support and mechanical curb detail. On detail 12/1-MH-702, change “SARNAFIL FLASHING” to be “MEMBRANE FLASHING- INSTALL PER MANUFACTURES REQUIREMENTS”.

lxxx. The daily filter changes on all existing equipment and louver openings throughout the entire construction as required per 1-MD-100, 1-MD-101 and 1-M-705 are excessive, please advise if there are any alternative that would save government the huge costs to do this exercise.

a. The intent is to keep air intakes clean from dust and debris during construction times when ambient conditions require it. The filters must be installed and replaced as need when dust and debris is present in air. Filter installation and replacement will depend on how diligent the contractor is in mitigating dust and debris during construction activities.

lxxxi. Will soils and concrete testing be performed by a third party or is the contractor responsible?

a. The contractor is responsible for hiring an independent third-party for testing.

lxxxii. Will environmental testing be required on all imported soils and aggregate?

a. Yes, refer to specification 312000 “Earthwork” section 2.1G.

lxxxiii. Will the contractor be required to hire a third-party geotechnical engineer to provide inspection of excavations and dewatering?

a. Yes, refer to specification 312000 “Earthwork” section 3.2A(5).

lxxxiv. Spec section 331000 – Water Utilities is provided, but there appears to be no new water service shown on the civil drawings. Please confirm.

a. This specification is included for adjustment to the existing fire hydrant and connection to hydrant for temporary water usage, if needed. Refer to note #1 on 1-GS-001 and note #1 on 1-GS-201.

lxxxv. Detail 3 on 1-GS-905 shows a 10” Pawn decorative bollard cover. Where are they to be installed?

a. Refer to bollards labeled “impact rated bollard” and “removable impact rated bollard” located partially along Veteran’s Way near ambulance entry and next to decontamination trailer pad on sheet 1-GS-101.

lxxxvi. Will third party monitoring and survey be required for settlement and/or groundwater recording for the contractor designed and installed shoring and dewatering systems? Who is responsible for the monitoring/survey?

a. Yes, contractor is responsible. Refer to specification 312000 “Earthwork” section 3.2A(5).

lxxxvii. The note on structural drawings 1-SS-101A and 1-SS-101B states that Geofoam shall be used as backfill behind the existing basement wall at column line 9 as shown. The geofoam is to be installed at a 2:1 slope angle starting 5’ out from the base of the existing basement wall. Please clarify 2:1 slope angle. Is this 2 horizontal : 1 vertical until the foam reaches an elevation of 1’-6” below FFE?

a. No, (2) vertical for every (1) horizontal.

lxxxviii. In addition to a previous submitted question regarding quantity of ATS’s depicted on two sets of documents, the specifications call out for an Annunciator to be furnished for the ATS. This is not depicted on the floorplan. Is this required, since the information that it would show can be viewed at the Paralleling Switchgear HMI, as well as, on a laptop in the engineering office currently? If required, is it one annunciator for each ATS? Or if the previous RFI is answered that two ATS’s are required will two annunciators be required? Where is(are) it(they) to be located and what type of cabling is required?

a. Separate hardwired annunciators are not required. As noted – the system must be viewable at the paralleling switchgear HMI and the Laptop in the Engineering Office.

lxxxix. The notes on the floor plans state to furnish remote test switches, but does not state to furnish duct detectors, yet the specs for the actual units do not state that they are to be furnished with duct detectors. Who is to furnish the duct detectors for the project?

a. Duct detectors shown on controls diagrams on 1-MH-401. By this addendum Contractor to furnish duct smoke detectors with sampling tubes, remote test switches, alarms, relays for fan shut down, power, control and signal wiring. Furnish and install local and visual alarms and alarms at the Engineering Control center (ECC) as shown on the AHU Points List, sheet 1-MH-402. Contractor to coordinate furnishing and installation with sub-contractors

xc. Section 01 45 00, para 3.4, part C requires additional CQC Personnel. Please clarify if this requirement is in addition to CQC System Manager and SSHO.

a. This requirement is not in addition to CQC manager and SSHO.

xci. One very important question I had was the differences between the drawings issued with the solicitation and the one issued with Amendment #1. Each transfer switch is being quoted at almost $50k right now so having one or two certainly can make a difference in bids and that is only one of the differences in the two drawing sets. Just need a confirmation that the drawings in Amendment #1 were truly intended to replace the original solicitation. Considering both drawings are dated the same day there is confusion on our end and vendors.

a. There shall be (2) transfer switches in the basement per the solicitation drawings. The Amendment #1 was issued for a sheet size error of 8.5x11, however the electrical drawings issued under amendment #1 were not the current revised set. Attached are the current electrical drawings that will replace the Amendment #1 set.

xcii. Refer to detail 5/1-SS-201. Is the proposed permanent steel sheeting flat or can it be Z-profile? Z-profile sheeting will conflict with the new concrete pier work. Due to the proximity of the grade beam, do you have a proposed driving method? Is underpinning an acceptable method for retaining the subbase material below the existing grade beam in lieu of the proposed steel sheeting?

a. This is delegated design by the Contractor that must be submitted to the EOR for review. See plan note on Drawing 1-SS-101B. Underpinning and other options may be suggested by the delegate engineer.

xciii. Refer to plans 1-SS100, 101A, 101B. Please explain the purpose for the soldier pile retaining walls on each side of the existing tunnel for both base bid and alternate work. Please clarify which material they are intended to retain. Which direction are they resisting soil?

a. Soldier pile wall is intended to maintain soil beneath the existing tunnel during excavation for the new foundation elements built up against the tunnel or very close to the tunnel. The bottom of some of these elements are lower than the bottom of the existing tunnel slab.

xciv. Refer to plans 1-SS100, 101A, 101B. Please explain the purpose for the soldier pile retaining wall proposed between M/1 and M/1.8. Please clarify the extents of the wall. Is the construction of this temporary wall a contractor decision based on limited allowable staging area on site?

a. Purpose of this wall is to maintain the roadway adjacent during excavation for the basement. If excavations are laid back they may encroach upon the road, etc. Contractor can eliminate if he feels it is not required provided the road and other site structures are not compromised during excavation.

See attached document: 071352 Modified Bituminous Sheet Waterproofing.

See attached document: Q40 - 1-HA-100.

See attached document: 084113 Aluminum Framed Entrances and Storefront8-18-22.

See attached document: Albany VAMC Geotech Report for New ED.

See attached document: 055000 Metal Fabrications.

See attached document: 087100 Door hardware SET 14.

See attached document: Subbasement Structural Originals.

See attached document: 088000 Glazing-8-18-22.

See attached document: Stratton ED_103177_SET.

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