S05 RFI Questions and Answers 1-20-2026.docx

This is a Questions and Answers document dated January 20, 2026, addressing bidder inquiries related to Solicitation 36C24226B0003 for Project 526-22-115 (Upgrade OR & Pharmacy Dumbwaiters) at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in Bronx, New York.

The document clarifies requirements regarding asbestos abatement costs for approximately 400 square feet of material. The government confirmed that bidders must include asbestos abatement and testing line item costs within their base bid amount, with the flexibility to show cost breakdowns separately in their bid cost breakdown section. Regarding the nature of the asbestos-containing material (ACM), the document indicates that testing and laboratory results will determine whether the ACM is friable or non-friable, with contractors required to proceed with testing during the demolition phase per the Statement of Work Hazardous Materials Abatement section. The response addresses the government's directive to issue a revised bid form as a separate line item, while maintaining the requirement that all asbestos abatement and testing costs be included in the final base bid submission.