36C24623R0030.pdf

Special Notice

*= Required Field Special Notice

SUBJECT* 652-24-103 Increase Surgical Access A-E Services Public Announcement SF 330 Request

GENERAL INFORMATION

CONTRACTING OFFICE’S ZIP CODE* 23249

SOLICITATION NUMBER* 36C24623R0030

ARCHIVE 99 DAYS AFTER THE RESPONSE DATE

RECOVERY ACT FUNDS N

PRODUCT SERVICE CODE* C1DA

NAICS CODE* 541330

CONTRACTING OFFICE ADDRESS

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 6 1201 Broad Rock Blvd Richmond VA 23249

POINT OF CONTACT* NCO6 Contract Specialist Madeline Lucena-Pulst madeline.lucena-pulst@va.gov 804-675-5841

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

AGENCY’S URL

URL DESCRIPTION

AGENCY CONTACT’S EMAIL ADDRESS madeline.lucena-pulst@va.gov EMAIL DESCRIPTION NCO6 Contract Specialist

DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION: This is a Special Notice for the establishment of an Architect-Engineering (A-E) contract with services to be performed at the Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center at 1201 Broad Rock Blvd., Richmond, VA 23249. This requirement is being executed under a 100% Set-Aside to Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) firms. THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS NOT

A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL; NO SOLICITATION PACKAGE WILL BE ISSUED UNTIL AFTER

AN EVALUATION HAS BEEN MADE ON THE PROVIDED SF-330s. The SF-330 can be downloaded through the GSA Forms Library at: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/type/TOP, scroll down to locate and click on the SF-330 hyperlink entitled, “Architect-Engineer Qualifications.” Interested firms should submit their current SF-330, Parts I and II, to Nicholas.Ruppert@va.gov and Madeline.lucena-pulst@va.gov. The SF-330s are due no later than 8:00 AM, EST, March 20, 2023

SCOPE OF WORK: This project requires the services of an architectural engineering firm (AE) having special knowledge of hospital design. The AE must have experience with Architectural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Structural Engineering with regards to renovating existing clinical laboratory into Operating Room (OR) Space.

Intent

The A/E shall provide design services for NRM construction project 652-24-103. The project shall renovate an existing clinical lab into OR Space (approximately 11,500 SF), in building 500 on the 3RD Floor. The design shall include an investigation to determine the repairs and modernization needed in the existing space. The extent and type of renovation necessary will be determined by the findings of the investigation and design.

Requirements (See Attached Statement of Work for Full Details)

The AE selected is expected to:

Part I – Preparation of Existing Conditions and Schematic Design – Investigative Services:

Preparation of existing conditions plan and conceptual design (15%) which includes site investigation for architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and environmental hazards, such as suspect ACM, other hazardous materials, but not limited to survey and sampling. Work will consist of A/E personnel crawling in crawlspaces, removing ceiling tile to trace ductwork above ceilings, and tracing ductwork in the building interstitial spaces. Preparation of the 15% also includes consideration of interior design, equipment/ furnishings, and conveying equipment, fire protection, electronics/security, telecommunications, healthcare technology systems and devices. Perform project site investigation in accordance with the ‘3.0 Site Investigations’ section of the Scope of Work.

Physically survey as well as review record drawings of the existing building. Inform CO/COR of supplemental information gathering that may be required.

Perform Photographic Documentation during Investigative Services; files are to be maintained for future reference of existing conditions for construction documents and unforeseen unit costing basis.

The Contractor shall prepare digital photo documentation of construction work, including sites, buildings, and field activities. Digital photos shall be consolidated and into a project report detailing the results of their site investigation submitted in PDF format to the Contracting Officer and COR, and to a resolution sufficient and appropriate for the type of work photographed. The

Contractor shall provide an index for each set of photographs submitted identifying the contractor, location of photo, facility, project number, date, and a brief description. The Contractor shall coordinate photography of any kind through the COR.

Schematic Design Submission Requirements (SD–15%)

The AE shall deliver the following (labeled with Schematic Design) and include this attachment as a checklist with your submission:

3 copies evaluation narrative addressing items listed in the design requirements and any additional AE recommendations for each of the three proposed layouts.

3 half size sets of architectural floor layouts for each of the three proposed layouts being considered based on space required and VA space criteria. Make a recommendation on the most efficient and effective floor layout and the reasons for the preference. Show equipment to be used in each room/area.

1 copy of the preliminary cost estimate for each option being considered.

1 CD containing

All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of preliminary cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Part II – Preparation of Contract Drawings and Specifications – Design Development – Submit complete review package in accordance with the following requirements and guidelines outlined in http://www.cfm.va.gov/contract/aeDesSubReq.asp. Please pay specific attention to the schematic, design and construction submission requirements. Preparation and submission for VA review interim design development document packages DD1, and DD2. Design development packages shall be submitted in accordance with the terms of the ‘Design Package Submission Schedule’ section of the Scope of Work.

Packages shall contain a complete set of documents as specified in the ‘Design Requirements/Submissions section of the scope of work. The A/E shall develop a design necessary to meet the requirements listed in the ‘Project Scope’ section. Design services shall include the following disciplines: civil, structural, architectural, interior design, healthcare architect/planner, equipment/furnishing, conveying equipment, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, electrical, electronic/security, telecommunications, healthcare technology systems and environmental. As appropriate depending upon the complexity of the design, the A/E may request approval from COR to delete individual submissions where not required (i.e. Do not address A. Site Development, Landscaping for interior renovation projects).

Design Development Submission Requirements (DD1-35%)

The AE shall deliver the following (labeled with 35% submission) and include this attachment as a checklist with your submission:

3 copies of a narrative report forwarding the design developed 15% submission addressing items listed in the design requirements and any additional AE recommendations. The report should include identifying potential bid deduct alternatives, recommended construction phasing based upon discussions with COR, and any design calculations or analysis.

3 half size and 1 full size set of all drawings (blueline copies) required by project, produced on Auto CAD software.

2 copies of updated cost estimate prepared in accordance with Cost Estimating Requirements.

2 copies of custom edited VA Master Specification to be used for this project and a master submittal list identifying all the submittals required to be submitted by the contractor for review. The list shall be organized by division and specification and include submittals, certifications, shop drawings, tests, samples and inspections required per drawing and specification section.

2 copies of completed Pre-TAB of existing impacted HVAC systems.

2 copies of completed environmental sampling reports.

1 CD or Digital Download containing

All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format All specifications in Microsoft Word and pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Checklist of all submittals, certifications, tests, and inspections in an Excel spreadsheet format.

All design related calculations.

Completed Pre-TAB of existing impacted HVAC systems.

Completed environmental sampling reports.

Design Development Submission Requirements (DD2–65%)

The AE shall deliver the following (labeled with 65% submission) and include this attachment as a checklist with your submission:

3 copies of a narrative report forwarding the design developed 35% submission addressing items listed in the design requirements and any additional AE recommendations. The report should include identifying potential bid deduct alternatives, recommended construction phasing based upon discussions with COR, and any design calculations or analysis.

3 half size and 1 full size set of all drawings (blueline copies) required by project, produced on Auto CAD software.

2 copies of updated cost estimate prepared in accordance with Cost Estimating Requirements.

2 copies of custom edited VA Master Specification to be used for this project and a master submittal list identifying all the submittals required to be submitted by the contractor for review. The list shall be organized by division and specification and include submittals, certifications, shop drawings, tests, samples and inspections required per drawing and specification section.

1 copy of each color board showing the interior design scheme (fabrics, finishes, furniture layout and plans) for each area, east west and center, include an inventory of materials/manufactures recommended for use for approval and prepared for order by the VA Interior Designer. This information should also be submitted on a spreadsheet for use during submittals (color, manufacturer, item number, etc.). The color, name and all applicable identifying numbers shall be placed on the board and be easily read without removing the physical samples.

1 CD or Digital Download containing All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format All specifications in Microsoft Word and pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Checklist of all submittals, certifications, tests, and inspections in an Excel spreadsheet format.

All design related calculations.

Part III – Preparation of Drawings and Specifications - Construction Documents - Preparation of construction bid documents, CD1(95%), CD2(100%) and BD (Final Bid Documents) at the completion of the design development process in accordance with the ‘Design Package Submission Schedule’ section.

Final construction document packages shall contain a complete set of documents as specified in the ‘Design Requirements/Submissions’ section of this scope of work. The AE shall finalize the design that meets the requirements in the ‘Project Scope’ section of this scope of work and the construction budget. Design shall include the following engineering services: civil, structural, architectural, interior design, healthcare architect/planner, equipment/ furnishings, conveying equipment, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, electrical, electronics/ security, telecommunications, healthcare technology systems and devices and environmental.

Construction Document Submission Requirements (CD1–95%)

The AE shall deliver the following (labeled with 95% submission) and include this attachment as a checklist with your submission:

3 copies of a narrative report forwarding the design developed 65% submission addressing items listed in the design requirements and any additional AE recommendations. The report should include identifying potential bid deduct alternatives, recommended construction phasing based upon discussions with COR, and any design calculations or analysis.

3 half size and 1 full size set of all drawings (blueline copies) required by project, produced on Auto CAD 2016 software.

2 copies of updated cost estimate prepared in accordance with Cost Estimating Requirements.

2 copies of custom edited VA Master Specification to be used for this project and a master submittal list identifying all the submittals required to be submitted by the contractor for review. The list shall be organized by division and specification and include submittals, certifications, shop drawings, tests, samples and inspections required per drawing and specification section.

1 copy of each color board showing the interior design scheme (fabrics, finishes, furniture layout and plans) for each area, east west and center, include an inventory of materials/manufactures recommended for use for approval and prepared for order by the VA Interior Designer. This information should also be submitted on a spreadsheet for use during submittals (color, manufacturer, item number, etc.). The color, name and all applicable identifying numbers shall be placed on the board and be easily read without removing the physical samples.

1 framed project renderings (20 in. x 28 in., landscape) to inform the public of the project intent to include drawing, color rendering and fact sheets.

1 copy of construction plan showing temporary conditions for construction, per phase, to ensure general conditions, life safety and infection control requirements are designed, identified and specified

1 CD or Digital Download containing All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format All specifications in Microsoft Word and pdf format Renderings in full size pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Checklist of all submittals, certifications, tests, and inspections in an Excel spreadsheet format.

All design related calculations.

Construction Document Submission Requirement (CD2–100%)

The AE shall submit complete bid documents for final review prior to solicitation. Deliver the following packaged (labeled with 100% submission) and include this attachment as a checklist with your submission:

3 copies of a narrative report forwarding the design developed 95% submission addressing items listed in the design requirements and any additional AE recommendations. The report should include identifying potential bid deduct alternatives, recommended construction phasing based upon discussions with COR, and any design calculations or analysis.

3 half size and 1 full size set of all drawings (blueline copies) required by project, produced on Auto CAD 2016 software.

2 copies of updated cost estimate prepared in accordance with Cost Estimating Requirements.

2 copies of custom edited VA Master Specification to be used for this project and a master submittal list identifying all the submittals required to be submitted by the contractor for review. The list shall be organized by division and specification and include submittals, certifications, shop drawings, tests, samples and inspections required per drawing and specification section.

1 CD or Digital Download containing All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format All specifications in Microsoft Word and pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Checklist of all submittals, certifications, tests, and inspections in an Excel spreadsheet format.

All design related calculations.

Contract Documents Submission Requirement (Bid documents):

The final design documents shall be sealed and signed by the design professional responsible/liable for the design represented in the respective document. The seal and signature shall conform to laws and requirements for the application of seals and signatures for professionals in the state or region in which the person taking liability for the work is registered. Any errors found on the sealed set are subject to revision and resubmission by the AE at no cost to the Government.

1 full size set of sealed contract drawings (complete with VA signed coversheet).

1 copy (bound) of project specifications produced on Microsoft Word software.

1 CD or Digital Download containing

All drawings in AutoCAD and pdf format (pdf drawing shall be digitally sealed) All specifications in Microsoft Word and pdf format Narrative report in pdf format Electronic copy of cost estimate PG-18-15, Volume C checklists, completed and signed Design review checklists, completed and signed.

Checklist of all submittals, certifications, tests, and inspections in an Excel spreadsheet format.

All design related calculations.

Part IV - Construction Period Services: Review and provide concise recommendations on all submittals, shop drawings, product data, samples, RFI’s (Questions & Clarification Requests), change order proposals, etc. in accordance with ‘Construction Period Services’ section of this statement of work. Services shall include third party asbestos monitoring, if needed, that will be performed during construction by a VA Certified Asbestos Air Sampler. Services shall include providing record drawings based on finalized contractor red-line as-builts.

Assist the VA to determine whether the contractor or subcontractors meet qualification requirements, supported by written recommendations of any problems or litigation encountered in the past based on firsthand knowledge.

Review all submittals and provide recommendations to the VA within fourteen (14) calendar days.

Review and provide replies to contractor generated RFIs when required by the Project

Manager/COR within seven (7) calendar days.

Review contractor's cost estimates and provide recommendations to the VA.

Attend preconstruction conference (teleconference i.e. MS Teams) Make site visits on requests of the VA and prepare written reports to include agreed upon changes in design as determined necessary during the construction. Visits made based on errors and omissions in design will be at no cost to the VA.

Perform commissioning of HVAC systems inhouse and Construction Laboratory Testing Services.

Participate in partial/final acceptance inspections as scheduled and generate punch list items for completion. The punch list shall reference the contract documents for specific deficiencies (i.e.

specification section, drawing detail, etc.)

Prepare as-built drawings on original set with A/E’s stamp, based on record drawings that the contractor kept during construction. Transpose contractor’s as-builts to AutoCAD (.dwg) and provide a set of updated as-builts on CD within 30 days to the Project Engineer. Final drawing submittal will include hard copies as described for other submissions as well as a CD clearly labeled with the project name, number and submittal date containing:

1. Folder labeled “bid documents”

a. All specifications bound in one (1) word document (make sure spec sections are separated by page breaks and that new sections start on right hand page)

b. All drawing sheets in one .pdf file.

2. Folder labeled “DWGs” with subfolders containing engineering disciplines (Architectural, MEP, Structural, Civil, etc.) which includes the .arj file (for every discipline) to launch and organize the drawing file system and make all drawings the current project inside of AutoCAD.

3. Folder labeled “PDF sheets” containing separate .pdf documents for each discipline.

4. Folder labeled “cost estimate” containing a copy of the final construction cost estimate documents.

5. Folder labeled “calculations” containing final calculation documents.

6. Folder labeled “specifications” with a word document for each spec section.

7. Folder labeled “misc” for IH reports, materials testing, VPDES permit, soils tests, sustainability checklist, etc.

8. Upon construction completion, red line drawings will be furnished to the A/E to prepare as built drawings. Final as built drawings will be furnished as master building drawings in a project manager format prescribed by the VA.

The A/E shall review and approve all specified equipment and installation submittals and shop drawings. During construction, the A/E shall allow for a minimum of forty (40) site visits as directed and scheduled by the COR. The A/E shall also attend the final inspection and provide the COR with an itemized punch list.

Part V – Construction Period Site Visits: Visit the site at the request of the VA in accordance with section ‘Site Visits’ in the scope of work. The total number of site visits during the construction period is estimated to be a minimum of 40 for this project, which may be finalized after selection of the AE and during negotiation of the proposal. Each site visit shall be documented through a field report denoting the purpose and results of the site visit.

Attend preconstruction conference (teleconference i.e. MS Teams) Make site visits on requests of the VA and prepare written reports to include agreed upon changes in design as determined necessary during the construction. Visits made based on errors and omissions in design will be at no cost to the VA.

Participate in partial/final acceptance inspections as scheduled and generate punch list items for completion. The punch list shall reference the contract documents for specific deficiencies (i.e. specification section, drawing detail, etc.)

OFFERORS WILL BE EVALUATED ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:

The selection criteria are listed in order of importance. The A/E must demonstrate its qualifications with respect to the published evaluation criteria for all services.

This acquisition will be in accordance with FAR Part 36.602-1 and VAAM Part M836.602-1(See Attached document). The Department of Veterans Affairs shall evaluate each potential contractor in terms of the following “M” firm meeting the selection criterion and “NM” means that the firm did not meet the selection criterion.

The submitted SF-330s will be evaluated on the following criteria:

(1) Professional qualifications necessary for satisfactory performance of required services;

(2) Specialized experience and technical competence in the type of work required, specifically to renovate existing clinical laboratory space into OR Space.

(3) Capacity to accomplish the work in the required time for both the prime and subconsultants.

(4) Past performance on contracts with Government agencies and private industry in terms of cost control, quality of work, and compliance with performance schedules in a hospital setting.

(5) Construction Period Services

(6) Record of significant claims against the firm

(7) Utilization of SDVOSB firms.

(8) Location (tiebreaker)

Criterion 1 - Professional qualifications necessary for satisfactory performance of required services showing recent experience of the project team with comparable hospital projects within the past five years in which the construction has been completed. Offerors will be evaluated in terms of the qualifications, competence and experience of the key personnel and technical team proposed to accomplish this work.

Key personnel are individuals who will have major contract or project management responsibilities and/or will provide a balanced, licensed, and or certified workforce in the following disciplines – civil, structural, architectural, interior design, healthcare architect/planner, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, electrical, electronic/security, telecommunications, healthcare technology systems and environmental.

Submission requirements: Provide brief resumes for all proposed team members. Resumes are limited to one page each and should cite project specific experience and indicate proposed role in this contract.

Provide professional registration, certification, licensure and/or accreditation. Indicate participation of key personnel in example projects in the SF-330 Part 1 Section G. Each resume shall include a minimum of two (2) and no more than four (4) specific completed projects through construction. Projects that best illustrate the individual members experience relevant to this contract scope and demonstrate each team member having more than 5 years of experience. Firm shall provide a table of a minimum of 5 comparable projects comparing their estimate with the bid/award amount during construction.

Evaluator Consideration: Do the qualifications indicate that the project team has recent direct experience on Hospital projects designing similar improvements to those proposed at Richmond VAMC?

Is the architect/engineer providing a team where each member has more than 5 years of experience? Do the disciplines/designers of record reflect understanding of design/construction requirements in the Commonwealth of Virginia and those of Veterans Affairs? What will be the role of interns if used during design?

Criterion 2 - Specialized experience and technical competence in the type of work required, including, where appropriate, experience specific to renovation of existing clinical lab space into OR Space. Offerors will be evaluated on specialized experience and technical competence in the performance of services like those anticipated under this contract about:

Special knowledge renovating OR space.

Experience working in and around an operational Hospital.

Specific experience and qualifications of personnel proposed for assignment to the project and their record of working together as a team.

Technical Competence with the conveying equipment and equipment/furnishing processes.

Submission requirements:

Provide at least three (3) not to exceed five (5) projects substantially (anything 85% or more) completed (Construction) within the past five (5) years that best illustrate specialized experience of the proposed team in the areas outlined above. Example projects shall note project’s square footage. All projects provided in the SF-330 must be completed by the office/branch/regional office/individual team member proposed to manage and/or perform work under this contract. To enable verification, firms should include the DUNS number along with each firm name in the SF-330 Part 1, Section F Item 25 “Firms from Section C Involved in this Project,” block (1). Include a contract number or project identification number in block 21. Include an e-mail address and phone number for the point of contact in block 23(c). Include in the project description, the contract period of performance, award contract value, current contract value, and summary of the work performed that demonstrates relevance to specialized experience as outlined above. If the contractor served as a subcontractor on a project, indicate the value of the work they provided towards the performance of the overall project. If a project was performed by a joint venture, and not all joint venture partners are on the team proposed for this contract, the offeror/team should specifically address the work performed by the joint venture partner offering/teaming on this contract.

Likewise, if the offeror/team member worked as a subcontractor on a project, the description should clearly describe the work performed by the offeror/team member and the roles and responsibilities of each on the project, rather than the work performed on the project as a whole. If the project description does not clearly delineate the work performed by the entity/entities offering/teaming on this contract, the project could be eliminated from consideration. Additionally, Firms are required to return and submit the Attachment B titled Criterion 2 Format, which will clearly demonstrate specific experiences and qualifications of personnel proposed for assignment to the project and their record of working together as a team. Specifically list similar scoped projects covering the previous 10 years and clearly show participation. (See SF330 Part I Section G, but not excluding other information provided on the SF330 and supporting documentation.)

NOTE: If the Offeror is a joint venture, information should be submitted as a joint venture; however, if there is no information for the joint venture, information should be submitted for either joint venture partner, not to exceed a total of five (5) projects for this criterion. Projects shall be submitted on the SF330. For submittal purposes, a task order on an IDIQ contract is considered a project, as is a stand-alone contract award. Do not list an IDIQ contract as an example of a substantially completed project.

Instead, list relevant completed task orders or stand-alone contract awards that fit within the definition above. Examples of project work submitted that do not conform to this requirement will not be evaluated.

Failure to provide requested data, accessible points of contact, or valid phone numbers could result in a firm being rated lower.

All information for Criterion 2 should be submitted in Part 1, Section F of the SF-330. The Government WILL NOT consider information submitted in addition to Part 2, Section F in evaluating Criterion 2.

Evaluator Consideration: Does the architect/engineer provide evidence of understanding of the project;

and any unique architectural/engineering aspects associated with the proposed project and how to address them?

Criterion 3 - Capacity to accomplish the work in the required time for both the prime and subconsultants. This factor evaluates the ability of the firm, given their current projected workload (percentage breakdown by personnel) and the availability of their key personnel, to accomplish the possible myriad of design projects in the required time. The general workload and staffing capacity of the design office will be evaluated.

Submission requirements: I. List current projects with a design fee of greater than $500,000 being designed in the firms’ office. II. Indicate the firms’ present workload and the availability of the project team (including sub-consultants) for the specified contract performance period. III. Describe experience in successfully delivering projects per performance schedule, providing timely construction support, and successfully completing multiple projects with similar delivery dates. IV. Volume of VA contract awards in the last 12 months.

Criterion 4 – Past Performance – Offerors will be evaluated on past performance with Government agencies and private industry in terms of work quality, compliance with schedules, cost control, and stakeholder/customer satisfaction. Evaluating past performance and experience will include information provided in Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs) or CPARS/ACASS for Criterion 2 projects and may include other information provided by the firm, customer inquiries, Government databases, and other information available to the Government including contacts with points of contact in other criteria.

Failure to provide requested data, accessible points of contact, or valid phone numbers could result in a firm being rated lower. NOTE: Past performance information for projects listed under Criterion 2.

Project Recency: A project will be considered recent only if performance was completed within five (5) years of the date of issuance of this public announcement. Ongoing projects performance data shall be considered if the projects meets the substantially completed description provided in Criterion 2.

Submission requirements: SUBMIT A COMPLETED AND CURRENT (MOST RECENT)

CPARS/ACASS EVALUATION FOR EACH PROJECT UNDER CRITERION 2. IF THERE IS NOT A

COMPLETED CPARS/ACASS EVALUATION, the Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ) included in this notice is provided for the offeror or its team members to submit to the client for each project the offeror includes under Criterion 2. AN OFFEROR SHALL NOT SUBMIT A PPQ WHEN A

COMPLETED CPARS/ACASS IS AVAILABLE. IF A CPARS/ACASS EVALUATION IS NOT

AVAILABLE, ensure correct phone numbers and email addresses are provided for the client point of contact. Submit no less than three (3) and no more than five (5) past performance references for recent and relevant projects identified on SF330 Part I Section F. Completed PPQs should be submitted with your SF-330. If the offeror is unable to obtain a completed PPQ from a client for a project(s) before the response date set forth in this notice, offerors should complete and submit with their responses the first page of the PPQ (Attachment A), which will provide contract and client information for the respective project(s). Offerors may submit a PPQ previously submitted under a different Notice/RFP (legible copies are acceptable) if it is on the same form as posted with this Synopsis. Offerors should follow up with clients/references to ensure timely submittal of questionnaires. If requested by the client, questionnaires may be submitted directly to Network Contracting Office 6, Attn: Nicholas J. Ruppert and Madeline Lucena-Pulst via email at Nicholas.Ruppert@va.gov and madeline.lucena-pulst@va.gov prior to the response date. Offerors shall not incorporate by reference into their response PPQs or CPARS previously submitted in response to other A/E services procurements. However, this does not preclude the Government from utilizing previously submitted PPQ information in the past performance evaluation.

Evaluator Consideration: Does the proposed architect/engineer have past performance with ratings satisfactory and above while working on hospital projects? Does the architect/engineer team have history of working together to accomplish projects to construction completion?

Criterion 5 – Construction Period Services. Offerors will be evaluated on the quality of the construction period services provided. Construction period services include but are not limited to (See Statement of Work): professional field inspections, review of construction submittals, support in answering request for information, and support of construction contract changes.

Submission Requirements: Provide up to three (3) completed projects in the past ten (10) years that best illustrate the construction period services performed by the team. Describe construction period services provided and whether the project was completed within schedule and budget. Include a contract number or project identification, include name, telephone number, and email of the completed project stakeholder.

Criterion 6 - Record of significant claims against the firm because of improper or incomplete architectural and engineering services.

Submission Requirements: Indicate any claims against the firm because of improper or incomplete architectural and engineering services within the past five (5) years.

Criterion 7 – Utilization of SDVOSB firms. Offerors will be evaluated on the extent to which potential contractors identify and commit to the use of service-disabled Veteran-owned small businesses, Veteran owned small businesses, and other types of small businesses as subcontractors.

Submission Requirements: Provide a list of subcontractors and their socioeconomic categories (SDVOSB, VOSB, and Multiple categories of small businesses).

Criterion 8 – Location. In the event that evaluations of SF330’s result in the same rating, proximity to the facility will be used as a tiebreaker. The distance will be determined according to http://maps.google.com/. For firms that have multiple/regional offices, the location of the primary project team will be used to calculate the distance and should be provided in the SF330.

Submission requirements: Indicate firms/teams’ location, including main offices, branch offices and any sub consultants’ offices and demonstrate how this will be advantageous to the Government.

SELECTION PROCESS: The agency has convened an evaluation board for the evaluation of responses to this notice. Responses will be evaluated in accordance with the Selection of Architects and Engineers Statute (Public Law 92-582), formerly known as the Brooks Act, and implemented in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 36.6. Specifically, SF 330 submissions will be evaluated to identify the most highly qualified firms, using the selection criteria identified above. Discussions will be held with at least three

(3) of the most highly qualified firms. Interviews may be conducted. The processes at FAR 36.602-4 and FAR 36.606 will then be followed.

SELECTION INTERVIEW:

Interviews shall be scheduled with firms slated as the most highly qualified. Firms slated for interviews will be asked a series of established questions. Elaborate presentations are not desired.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

All design and work will conform to the current edition of the VA Master Specifications and VA Design Standards as published at the following site: www.cfm.va.gov; ASME, OSHA, IBC 2009, NFPA and NEC building codes and standards. Coordinate all work through the COR of Facilities Management Service. Contractor is responsible for all cleanups and refuse disposal throughout the construction period.

The A-E firm will prepare drawings and specifications in enough detail such that qualified outside General Contracting companies can prepare accurate and timely proposals for the desired construction work. Microsoft Project scheduling and management software will be used by both the A-E and Contractors to allow for regular tracking of schedules and work by the VA Medical Center. Schedules with MS Project will be regularly sent to the COR upon project initiation and whenever significant changes occur in the schedule. The estimated magnitude of construction is between $10,000,000 and $20,000,000. The A-E will provide an initial estimate of cost to perform the above work and will design only those items that can be provided within the cost limitation. The Estimated Cost of Construction (ECC) shall only be provided to the Contractor in which a formal proposal is sought for the purposes of providing a proposal. The Medical Center must remain operational throughout the construction period and a detailed sequence of work will be provided by the A-E to minimize impact of the construction. The A- E will provide documents at each submission as indicated in the statement of work. The NAICS code for this procurement will be 541330, Engineering Services. The current small business size standard for 541330 is $22.5 Million.

DESIGN COSTS: All offerors are advised that in accordance with VAAR 836.606-71 the total cost of the architect or engineer services contracted for the production and delivery of designs, plans, and specifications shall not exceed six percent (6%) of the estimated cost of the construction project plus any fees for related services and activities. Additionally, FAR 52.236-22 Design Within Funding Limitations, will be applicable to this procurement action. Design limitation costs will be provided to the most highly rated A-E firm(s) selected in accordance with the outlined process.

LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING: In accordance with VAAR 852.219-73, VA Notice of Total Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside and 13 CFR 125.6, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business concern (SDVOSB) agrees that, in the performance of the contract, it will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to firms that are not similarly situated.

Firms that are “similarly situated” are those that are also SBA-registered SDVOSBs.

Requirement for Electronic Submission Unless paper offers are specifically authorized, all responses to this special notice must be submitted electronically as described below. The only acceptable paper form for this requirement is the receipt of past performance questionnaires. Failure to comply with this requirement may jeopardize the possibility of receiving an award for the contract due to non-compliance with the terms of the solicitation. You must submit your electronic offer, and any supplemental information (such as spreadsheets, backup data, technical information), using any of the electronic formats and media described below.

In addition, contractors are notified of the award via an electronic Notice of Award e-mail. The award document will be attached to the Notice of Award e-mail.

Acceptable Electronic Formats (Software) for Submission of Offers

1. Files readable using the current Microsoft* Office version Products: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Access. Spreadsheet documents must be sent in a format that includes all formulas, macro, and format information. Print or scan images of spreadsheets are not acceptable. Please see security note below for caution regarding use of macros. When submitting construction drawings contractors are required to submit one set in AutoCAD and one set in Adobe PDF. (Purpose:

contracting can open the PDF version and engineering can open AutoCAD files)

2. Files in Adobe* PDF (Portable Document Format) Files: When scanning documents scanner resolution should be set to 200 dots per inch, or greater.

3. Another electronic format. If you wish to submit an offer using another format than those described in these instructions, e-mail the Contracting Officer/Specialist who issued the solicitation. Please submit your request at least five (5) calendar days before the scheduled closing date of the solicitation. Request a decision as to the format acceptability and make sure you receive approval of the alternate format before using it to send your offer.

4. Please note that we can no longer accept .zip files due to increasing security concerns.

E-mail Submission Procedures: For simplicity in this guidance, all submissions in response to a solicitation will be referred to as offers.

a. Subject Line: Include the solicitation number, name of company, and closing date of solicitation.

b. Size: Maximum size of the e-mail message shall not exceed ten (10) megabytes. The SF330, in its entirety, shall not exceed one email of 5MB. The SF330 (not including past performance questionnaires) are limited to 45 pages. If the page limits are exceeded, the pages in excess of the limit will not be read nor considered. Only one email is permitted unless otherwise stated in this paragraph or in writing by the Contract Officer submitting the solicitation. Due to VA IT Security protocols, email submissions are limited to 10Mb per email. Furthermore, it is the sole responsibility of the prospective firms to confirm receipt of their submission in its entirety prior to the closing date & time of their submission in response to this synopsis.

The Microsoft Outlook © Email time/date stamp will be used to date and time stamp offers for the official record of receipt for the submission. The date and time stamp in recipients “inbox” is the official record of receipt.

Security Issues, Late Bids, Unreadable Offers

1. Late submission of offers is outlined at FAR Parts 52.212-1(f), 52.214-7, and 52.215-1(c)(3).

Attention is warranted to the portion of the provision that relates to the timing of submission.

2. Please see FAR 15.207(c) for a description of the steps the Government shall take with regard to unreadable offers.

3. To avoid rejection of an offer, vendors must make every effort to ensure their electronic submission is virus-free. Submissions or portions thereof submitted and which the automatic system detects the presence of a virus or which are otherwise unreadable will be treated as “unreadable” pursuant to FAR Parts 14.406 and FAR 15.207(c ).

4. The virus scanning software used by our e-mail systems cannot always distinguish a macro from a virus. Therefore, sending a macro embedded in an e-mail message or an e-mail attachment may cause the e-mail offer to be quarantined. You may send both the spreadsheet and the spreadsheet saved in PDF format to ensure that your proposal is readable.

5. Password protecting your submission is not permitted. The Contracting Officer will file the offer electronically which will allow access only by designated individuals.

Important Notice: Apparent successful offerors must apply for and receive verification from the Small Business Administration (SBA) in accordance with 38 CFR Part 74 and VAAR 819.70 by submission of documentation of Veteran status, ownership and control enough to establish appropriate status, offerors must be both VISIBLE and VERIFIED by the Small Business Administration (SBA) at the time of submission of offers and at the time of award. Failure to be both VERIFIED by SBA and VISIBLE on VetCert at the time of submission of offers and at the time of award. will result in the offeror’s proposal being deemed non-compliant. All offerors are urged to contact the SBA and submit the required documents to obtain SBA verification of their SDVOSB status if they have not already done so.

Important addendum to 852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS SET ASIDE: VA’s Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database is no longer active.

Small Business Administration will now verify SDVOSB Status. Offerors must be listed on SBA’s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) database at https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/.

852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE (Nov 2022)

(a) Definition. For the Department of Veterans Affairs, “Service-disabled Veteran-owned small business concern or SDVOSB”:

(1) Means a small business concern—

(i) Not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or eligible surviving spouses (see VAAR 802.101, Surviving Spouse definition);

(ii) The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more service-disabled Veterans (or eligible surviving spouses) or, in the case of a service-disabled Veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such Veteran;

(iii) The business meets Federal small business size standards for the applicable North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code identified in the solicitation document;

(iv) The business has been verified for ownership and control pursuant to 38 CFR part 74 and is listed in VA’s Vendor Information Pages (VIP) database at https://www.vetbiz.va.gov/vip/; and

(v) The business will comply with VAAR subpart 819.70 and Small Business Administration (SBA) regulations regarding small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR parts 121 and 125, provided that any reference therein to a service-disabled veteran-owned small business concern or SDVO SBC, is to be construed to apply to a VA verified and VIP-listed SDVOSB, unless otherwise stated in this clause.

(2) The term “Service-disabled Veteran” means a Veteran, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service-connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16).

(3) The term “small business concern” has the meaning given that term under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

(4) The term “small business concern owned and controlled by Veterans with service-connected disabilities” has the meaning given the term “small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans” under section 3(q)(2) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)(2)), except that for a VA contract the firm must be listed in the VIP database (see paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of this clause).

(b) General. (1) Offers are solicited only from VIP-listed SDVOSBs. Offers received from entities that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs at the time of offer shall not be considered.

(2) Any award resulting from this solicitation shall be made to a VIP-listed SDVOSB who is eligible at the time of submission of offer(s) and at the time of award.

(3) The requirements in this clause apply to any contract, order or subcontract where the firm receives a benefit or preference from its designation as an SDVOSB, including set-asides, sole source awards, and evaluation preferences.

(c) Representation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(e), only VIP-listed SDVOSBs are considered eligible to receive award of a resulting contract. By submitting an offer, the prospective contractor represents that it is an eligible SDVOSB as defined in this clause, 38 CFR part 74, and VAAR subpart 819.70.

(d) Agreement. When awarded a contract action, including orders under multiple-award contracts, an SDVOSB agrees that in the performance of the contract, the SDVOSB shall comply with requirements in VAAR subpart 819.70 and SBA regulations on small business size and government contracting programs at 13 CFR part 121 and part 125, including the non-manufacturer rule and limitations on subcontracting requirements in 13 CFR 121.406(b) and 13 CFR 125.6. Unless otherwise stated in this clause, a requirement in 13 CFR parts 121 and 125 that applies to an SDVO SBC, is to be construed to also apply to a VIP-listed SDVOSB. For the purpose of limitations on subcontracting, only VIP-listed SDVOSBs (including independent contractors) shall be considered eligible and/or “similarly situated” (i.e., a firm that has the same small business program status as the prime contractor). An otherwise eligible firm further agrees to comply with the required certification requirements in this solicitation (see 852.219-75 or 852.219-76 as applicable). These requirements are summarized as follows:

(1) Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs (excluding direct costs to the extent they are not the principal purpose of the acquisition and the SDVOSB/VOSB does not provide the service, such as airline travel, cloud computing services, or mass media purchases). When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the service portion of the contract.

(2) Supplies/products. (i) In the case of a contract for supplies or products (other than from a non-manufacturer of such supplies), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the…