Attachment I - Questions and Responses rev.pdf

Revised Questions and Answers 36C24625B0007 Renovate Bldg. 15 2nd Floor

10 February 2025 Page 1 of 24

1. Will the VA consider a 12x24 Porcelain Floor Tile which includes matching cove base and bullnose trim units, as well as 2x2 mosaics and a 4x16 Ceramic Wall Tile?

• All interior finishes were provided by the VA and based on the third floor upfit.

All substitutions must be submitted to and approved by the VA. Suggestions would be considered. Colors must be coordinated with interior design.

2. Stonepeak distributor of Simply Modern Mosaic "Ultimate Olive Brown" has disclosed this has been discontinued. Is there a substitute or something else we can use?

• Ultimate olive brown was used as a basis of design. An equal/similar shade will be chosen from a color palette submitted by contractor to VA.

3. This is a sealed bid, meaning hand delivered or mailed. However, I do see an option to submit electronically as long as its the day before the due date by 5:00pm. Can you confirm that this can be submitted electronically?

• Confirmed, interested Parties may submit their bids electronically in accordance with the

Please refer to Instructions to Offerors on pgs. 7-10 in Solicitation.

4. Tab B states to send in two SF1442 forms with one of them having an original signature. Can you confirm if we are able and submitting electronically that we still need to submit two forms?

• Two copies are required only if submitting hard copies.

5. Will the owner accept Procore Project Management software as the primary submittal and data tracking tool for this project?

• Procore is acceptable.

6. Is this project tax-exempt, and will the CO/COR provide the necessary tax-exempt certificates?

• Please refer to FAR 52.229-2. For additional details, consult your tax advisor.

7. What is the approximate duration between issuing the award and issuing the NTP?

• Duration between award and NTP is contingent on Division I submittals.

8. For planning the preliminary project schedule, please provide an anticipated award date.

• Award date is estimated to be approximately 30-45 days from bid opening.

9. How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for the owner and A/E to review and respond to RFIs?

• Please refer to Spec 01 33 23 paragraph 1.10 D which states “VA review period is 30 working days for RFIs.”

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10. How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for owner and A/E submittal review?

• Please refer to Spec 01 33 23 paragraph 1.10 E which states “VA review period is 30 working days for submittal.

11. Will the Government provide the 3-D REVIT Design model in native file format for the creation of coordination drawings and use by contractor?

• The design team has provided 3D information for shop drawing reference for contractor.

12. Please confirm that the project scope (including work at the basement and the 1st /2nd-floor interstitials) will be completed during normal working hours, not nights and weekends.

• Please refer to Hours of Work in SOW.

13. The project scope is widespread across the building and performed in and around numerous existing building systems that will need coordination. How many site visits do owner consultants have for MEP and systems coordination with GC, and will the VA have a designated MEP representative available on site?

• Arch and MEP have 1 Visit During Construction | Arch and MEP have 1 Final

Inspection Visit. VA will have maintenance personnel available with prior coordination which will be aiding in inspections.

14. Can you confirm that the owner will be contracting directly with a third-party commissioning agent for commissioning the project and that the Contractor is only to include participation/coordination with the Commissioning Agent?

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• Due to recent policy changes the VA will appoint an individual as the commissioning agent. The Contractor is to participate and coordinate as described in spec 01 91 00 paragraphs 1.8 - 1.10.

15. Knowing that the campus is limited on space and parking, it is critical that the contactor project superintendent have freedom of access and close proximity to the work. Can the VA/Owner provide a designated parking spot for the contractor project superintendent?

• Refer to attachment – Map for dumpster and temp power hook up

16. Has the facility Operation & Maintenance team reviewed the Contract Documents for operability to avoid change orders?

• Yes

17. Can the contractor use an existing office inside the building for a temporary construction office during construction instead of setting up a temporary trailer?

• The superintendent may use space inside the construction area for an office. Space will not be provided outside of the construction area.

18. Can the contractor use the existing restroom facilities in the work area or adjacent ones nearby?

• Please refer to Specifications 01 00 00 1.17. If toilets are in the work area they may be used. If toilets are used outside of the area, they must be kept clean and functional. If there are problems with cleanliness/excess of wear and tear the contractor must make other arrangements.

19. Can the contractor use the existing on-site utilities for temporary electrical and water free of charge?

• Please refer to Specifications, 01 00 00 1.18

20. Will the owner provide the fire watch during the period that the fire suppression and/or fire alarm system is not in service?

• Specification 01 35 26 states "Provide fire watch for impairments more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period. "

21. Please provide detailed guidance for noise and vibration operations, including acceptable levels/duration, hours of operations for acceptable levels, and acceptable noise levels after hours.

• Follow OSHA guidance. Work that will produce levels above 50dB in the 1st and

3rd floor must be performed after hours.

22. Specifications section 01 35 26 para 1.7.C explains that SSHO has to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent. Specifications section 01 45 00 para 3.4.B mandates that CQC System Manager cannot have duties as project superintendent.

Please confirm that the superintendent cannot dual hat as CQC or SSHO.

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• 01 45 00 3.4.B states “The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System Manager but has duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control.” Our interpretation is the superintendent can be the CQC. We concur the SSHO needs to be a separate qualified individual from the superintendent.

23. Confirm there is an existing vent stack in all chases where new plumbing fixtures can be re-vented to.

• There are existing plumbing fixtures with existing vent piping and vents through roof that shall be utilized by new vent piping.

24. Please clarify what size/system keyed note 8 pertains to.

• Pipe size, type, and system are unknown. VA noted unknown pipe riser there that needs to be relocated so it is not exposed once renovation is complete.

25. Verify that Domestic Water risers shown between column lines B-C & 12-13 do not serve plumbing fixtures on level 03.

• Domestic water risers serve more than the current floor and will require shutdown of areas outside scope of work during construction.

26. Confirm all plumbing fixtures tagged with key note "1" have mains on level 02.

• Fixtures’ domestic water piping and vent piping have existing piping above ceiling on level

02. The waste piping for those fixtures are below level 02 floor, in level 01 ceiling.

27. Clarify if water closet carriers tagged with key note "2" will remain or be demolished.

• Water closet carriers with demolition keyed note 2 shall be demolished and new water closets shall be provided with new carrier as specified on sheet P001.

28. Verify that there are no floor drains to be demolished.

• Correct, no floor drains to be demolished.

29. Please confirm that ground penetrating radar is not required for all core drilling and saw cutting through existing concrete slabs.

• GPR is not required for core drilling.

30. Can the Superintendent be shared across multiple projects, or should they only be dedicated full-time to this project?

• Please refer to Specifications, 01 45 00 paragraph 3.1 “The project superintendent maintains a physical presence at the site at all times and is responsible for all construction and related activities at the site, except as otherwise acceptable to the Contracting Officer.” One superintendent per project.

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31. Can the Superintendent fulfill the roles of Quality Control Manager & Site Safety and Health Officer?

• The SSHO has to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s

Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO.

32. Can the Superintendent fulfill the Quality Control Manager (QCM) role?

• See response to question 22.

33. If the Super cannot fulfill this role, the average ADDITIONAL cost for a dedicated QCM is approximately $26,500 per month (salary, labor burden, per diem, housing, company vehicle, monthly return trips home, company phone, etc). We expect this project to be 8 months long, and the bid is expected to increase by $212,000. Please confirm a dedicated QCM is still required.

• See response to question 22.

34. Is the QCM required to be onsite full-time, or can they make site visits as required for inspections?

• Please refer to Specifications 01 45 00 paragraph 3.4

QUALITY CONTROL ORGANIZATION:

Personnel Requirements: The requirements for the CQC organization are a Safety and Health Manager, CQC System Manager, a Design Quality Manager (if applicable), and sufficient number of additional qualified personnel to ensure safety and Contract compliance. The Safety and Health Manager shall satisfy the requirements of Specification 01 35 26 Safety Requirements and reports directly to a senior project (or corporate) official independent from the CQC System Manager. The Safety and Health Manager will also serve as a member of the CQC Staff. Personnel identified in the technical provisions as requiring specialized skills to assure the required work is being performed properly will also be included as part of the CQC organization. The Contractor’s CQC staff maintains a presence at the site at all times during progress of the work and have complete authority and responsibility to take any action necessary to ensure Contract compliance.

35. If the QCM is required to be onsite, should they be assigned to this project only, or can they be assigned to another project as well?

• Please refer to Spec 01 45 00 paragraph 3.4. This project only - “at all times during construction”

36. Can a subcontractor (e.g., Terracon or a similar testing firm) fulfill the QCM role?

• Please refer to spec 01 45 00 paragraph 3.4. QCM must be employed by general contractor.

37. Can the Superintendent fulfill the Site Safety & Health Officer (SSHO) role?

• Please refer to Spec 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7

1.1“SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER” (SSHO) AND “COMPETENT PERSON”

(CP):

A. The Prime Contractor shall designate a minimum of one SSHO at each project site that will be identified as the SSHO to administer the Contractor's safety program and government- accepted Accident Prevention Plan. Each subcontractor shall designate a

10 February 2025 Page 6 of 24 minimum of one CP in compliance with 29 CFR 1926.20 (b)(2) that will be identified as a CP to administer their individual safety programs.

B. Further, all specialized Competent Persons for the work crews will be supplied by the respective contractor as required by 29 CFR 1926 (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations).

C. These Competent Persons can have collateral duties as the subcontractor’s superintendent and/or work crew lead persons as well as fill more than one specialized CP role (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations). However, the SSHO has to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO.

38. Our interpretation of 01 35 26, 1.7 in its reference to FAR 52.236-6 is that the prime contractor would be in compliance with this section if we have a Superintendent on-site during construction, as FAR 52.236-6 does not require (or mention for that matter) an SSHO and explicitly covers the prime contractor's Superintendent only. In short, an onsite SSHO is not a requirement per FAR 52.236-6. Please confirm.

• Please read response to Question 39. Specs are part of the contract, SSHO is required.

39. Is the SSHO required to be on-site full-time, or can they be a home office employee (e.g., Safety Director) on the prime contractor's staff?

• Please refer Spec 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7D

The SSHO or an equally-qualified Designated Representative/alternate will maintain a presence on the site during construction operations in accordance with FAR Clause 52.236- 6: Superintendence by the Contractor. CPs will maintain presence during their construction activities in accordance with above mentioned clause. A listing of the designated SSHO and all known CPs shall be submitted prior to the start of work as part of the APP with the training documentation and/or AHA as listed in Section 1.8 below.

40. If the SSHO is required to be onsite, should they be assigned to this project only, or can they be assigned to another project as well?

• Please refer to spec 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7. This project only.

41. Can a subcontractor fulfill the SSHO role with periodic visits?

• Please refer to Question 39 response.

42. Does the VA require any scope of work in this project to be performed outside of regular work hours?

• Please refer to Hours of Work in the SOW.

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43. What trades or scopes will be required to perform off-hours work for work scopes that must be performed?

• Please refer to Question 42 response.

44. What will the work hours and days be for scopes that require off-hours work?

• Please refer to Question 42 response.

45. In the event of contract modifications, should contractors apply bond premiums to the individual modification or wait until the end of the job where the VA issues a final modification to reimburse contractors for bond overruns for all mods.

• After inspection and acceptance of the bond, the contractor may submit invoice for recompense.

46. Where is the designated contractors' and subcontractors' parking area?

• Refer to attachment – Map for dumpster and temp power hook up.

47. Will the VA allow 2-3 spaces for the prime contractor and each subcontractor?

48. Where shall these people park if the VA cannot make 2-3 spaces available for the prime contractor and each of the subs?

49. Is badging required for the project?

• Please refer to SOW.

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50. Are background Checks and Fingerprinting checks required?

• Only if a PIV Card is requested. For a proxy card none is required.

51. How long is the turnaround time for background check results?

• Not required, unless applying for a PIV card. If applying for a PIV card plan on 2 months.

52. How many hours should the prime contractor and subcontractors budget for on-site badging, safety training, orientation, etc.?

• 2 hours.

53. Is tuberculosis testing required before contractors can commence work onsite?

• Please refer to SOW and Spec 01 35 26 paragraph 1.13A which states Contractor shall provide written certification that all contract employees assigned to the work site have had a pre-placement tuberculin screening within 90 days prior to assignment to the worksite and been found have negative TB screening reactions.

54. Are influenza vaccines required for all contractors and subcontractors employees who work on the site?

• The Influenza Vaccine Requirement under VHA Directive 1192.01 will remain in place at the Contract level. However, the availability of waivers is not the responsibility of the Government and remain at the level of between Employer and its subsequent Employees, as this is not a Personal Services Contract. However, the requirements for personnel whom employers grant a waiver will be required to wear face masks while in the Medical Center during the flu season (01 Dec 20XX - 31 Mar 20XX).

55. Will the government provide call-in details and instructions for the bid opening to ensure transparency for all bidders?

• Please refer to pg. 1 of the Solicitation.

56. In lieu of the provided cost estimate breakdown, will the government accept a printout report from our COTS estimating software that provides the same level of breakdown specified in the government- provided breakdown spreadsheet?

• To enhance the speed of review and maintain consistency please use the attached cost estimate breakdown.

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57. Will the VA allow a Temp Wall System (i.e., Starc Wall, Edge Guard, etc) instead of a rigid wall ICRA system? This usually provides substantial cost savings to the VA.

• Temp wall systems are acceptable.

58. If fire-rated walls are required, can we use one-hour-rated temp walls, which are ASTM- certified?

• Yes

59. Will the VA provide the point of contact information for the BMS integration contractor?

• David DeBusk - ddebusk@asiinc.us

60. Will the VA provide the point of contact information for the Fire Alarm integration contractor?

• Jeff Kilpatrick - Jeff.kilpatrick@JCI.com

61. Will the VA allow contractors to use water from VA sources?

• Please refer to Specification 01 00 00 paragraph 1.18F which states: Obtain water by connecting to the Medical Center water distribution system. Provide reduced pressure backflow preventer at each connection as per code. Water is available at no cost to the Contractor.”

62. Is temp power available for contractors to connect to?

• Please refer to Specification 01 00 00 paragraph 1.18E which states: Obtain electricity by connecting to the Medical Center electrical distribution system. The Contractor shall meter and pay for electricity required for electric hoisting devices, electrical welding devices and any electrical heating devices providing temporary heat. Electricity for all other uses is available at no cost to the Contractor.

63. If no temp power is available, a generator will be required, which usually adds significant cost to rent and fuel. Please confirm this is necessary if no temp power is available.

• Please refer to Specification 01 00 00 paragraph 1.18E which states: Obtain electricity by connecting to the Medical Center electrical distribution system. The Contractor shall meter and pay for electricity required for electric hoisting devices, electrical welding devices and any electrical heating devices providing temporary heat. Electricity for all other uses is available at no cost to the Contractor.

64. What are the locations for temp power?

• Refer to attachment – Map for dumpster and temp power hook up. Building has power.

65. Are contractors required to set a pole and meter electric usage?

• Please refer to Specification 01 00 00 paragraph 1.18E which states: Obtain electricity by connecting to the Medical Center electrical distribution system. The Contractor shall meter and pay for electricity required for electric hoisting devices, electrical welding devices and any electrical heating devices providing temporary heat. Electricity mailto:ddebusk@asiinc.us mailto:Jeff.kilpatrick@JCI.com

10 February 2025 Page 10 of 24 for all other uses is available at no cost to the Contractor

66. Will the VA provide a space for the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent to set up, or should we add costs to our bid for a mobile office?

• Interior space outside of the work area will not be provided.

67. Where should the mobile office be located?

• See map Refer to attachment – Map for dumpster and temp power hook up

68. Is space available for a 10’ x 40’ temporary ground-level office near the temporary power source?

69. Will the VA provide space for a 20-yard dumpster?

70. Where shall contractor dumpsters be located?

71. Can the VA accommodate a dumpster near the job site?

72. Will the VA allow contractors to use VA indoor restrooms?

• Indoor restrooms may be used as long as they are kept clean and orderly.

73. Can Porta Johns be placed within a 100’ radius of the job site if required?

• Porta Johns will not be required.

74. Can utility tie-ins be performed during regular hours?

• If they do not interfere with operations, they may be performed during business hours.

75. Can system commissioning activities be performed during regular hours?

• If they do not interfere with operations.

76. Will the VA allow for stored material so that we can procure and lay down long lead items and/or critical path material/equipment?

77. Will the VA fully pay for this material/equipment if stored onsite?

• Yes, if the material is on-site and has been inspected by the COR. Receipts or paid

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Invoices may be requested.

78. Does the project scope include providing new signage for rooms and/or bathrooms?

• No, room signage will be provided by owner.

79. If the new rooms and/or bathrooms do require new signage, please provide the sign schedule.

• See response for 78.

80. Regarding Drawing Sheet No. P101, please clarify what size, type, and system keyed note 8 pertains to.

• Pipe size, type, and system are unknown. VA noted unknown pipe riser there that needs to be relocated so it is not exposed once renovation is complete.

81. Please include in the drawings where detail C1 and C2 should be applied.

• Ceiling details are accurate for transitions see RCP for ceiling finishes and elevations.

These transitions will occur to either side of keynote A6 found on A201.

82. Please provide a detailed view for the ceiling height transition at this Soffit where the ceiling is lower than the soffit on the east side (Sheet no. A201).

• Detail will be similar to C1 detail, with the exception of ACT at 8’2”, transitions to gyp soffit by axiom trim at 8’-4”.

83. Please indicate which, if any, outlets are connected to the emergency power system. Symbol legend states on all symbols that a slash indicates the outlet is connected to the emergency power system, but no slash is observed on the drawings. (Sheet no. EP101)

• No, receptacles are connected to the emergency power system, everything will be fed from the Normal branch. Symbols in the legend are for reference purposes only and all may not be reflected within the contract document plans.

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84. Does the project scope include providing new fire extinguishers?

• No, new fire extinguishers will be provided by VA.

85. Are any existing fire extinguishers required to be removed and/or reinstalled?

• Existing fire extinguishers will be removed and reinstalled by VA.

86. Could you please indicate on the interior finish legend, what LVT1 represents. (Sheet no. A701)

• The drawings were updated. SF1 was changed to LVT1. LVT1 used Taj Flooring, Wavelength, color Chia, 7” x 48” 5mm thick square edge as a basis of design.

87. Please provide details/specs on the FCU equipment noted for relocation.

• Manufacturer is Snyder General Model TSHO81FR. We did not verify every FCU.

88. The specification does not specify a manufacturer for cables or jacks. Please provide any manufacturer requirements for these.

• Choose a manufacturer in which complies with the contract document and with VA Standards.

89. Please specify what the floor finishes are in each room number (carpet or VCT). The drawings provided lists them as carpet. However, several rooms observed during the site-walk are listed as carpet on the drawings but are actually VCT (e.g. Room 220 is listed as carpet on the drawings but is VCT, etc.). Room numbers: 227, 224, 223, 219, 216, 215, 214, 205, 204.

• Contractor to provide cost of demolition per room as observed.

90. Please confirm the existing floor tile in the bathrooms will not be removed.

• Refer to demo keynote D-9, this will note existing floor tile to be removed.

91. If the existing floor tiles in the bathrooms are not going to be removed, please confirm if there will be new tile placed on top of the existing tile.

• Existing tile will be removed before new tile is installed.

92. If new tile is placed on existing tile, there will be a significant elevation change from the corridor to the bathrooms after demolition of carpeting and terrazzo; please provide a plan for this significant elevation change, if it applies.

• New tile will NOT be installed on existing tile.

93. Can the Superintendent also be the Prime Contractor’s Commissioning Manager during commissioning?

• Yes.

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94. Is any commissioning required on this project?

• Please refer to Spec 01 91 00, General Commissioning Requirements

95. Is a full-time on-site quality control manager required for this project?

• Please refer to Specification 01 45 00 3.4 Quality Control Organization

96. Can the Project Manager also be the quality control manager?

• Yes, must comply with 01 45 00 3.4.B.

97. Is a full-time on-site Safety and Health Officer required for this project?

• Please refer to Specification 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7D

The SSHO or an equally qualified Designated Representative/alternate will maintain a presence on the site during construction operations in accordance with FAR Clause 52.236-6:

Superintendence by the Contractor. CPs will maintain presence during their construction activities in accordance with above mentioned clause. A listing of the designated SSHO and all known CPs shall be submitted prior to the start of work as part of the APP with the training documentation and/or AHA as listed in Section 1.8 below.

98. Can the Superintendent also be the Site Safety and Health Officer?

• Please refer to Specification 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7C

1.7 “SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER” (SSHO) AND “COMPETENT PERSON”

(CP):

c. These Competent Persons can have collateral duties as the subcontractor’s superintendent and/or work crew lead persons as well as fill more than one specialized CP role (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, 01 35 26 -11 Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations). However, the SSHO has to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO.

99. As is typical for most VA projects can the QC plan be implemented by the onsite superintendent and administrated by the PM without additional staff (other than what is required for commissioning) as call for in 01 45 00.?

• Yes, the superintendent can be the CQC manager.

100. Is there any reason to believe the slab has moisture in it and moisture remediation will be needed?

• No

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101. Have other areas on this floor needed moisture remediation on the concrete slab?

• No

102. Will any of this work have to be performed after hours or weekends?

• Please refer to Hours of Work in SOW.

103. Will this project be done in phases?

• Please refer to sheet GI004.

104. Will each phase have to be fully completed before moving to the next or can some phases be completed simultaneously?

• Each phase is to be completed individually.

105. How many areas will we be given at a time?

• See sheet GI004, 1 area per phase.

106. What opening can we use to vent our negative air to meet the ICRA requirements?

• Windows on the west, north and east sides.

107. Will we have to remove a window in each room to vent air outside or is there another means of venting air from the space to achieve the negative pressure required by ICRA?

• Negative air pressure must be maintained as found in 01 35 26 1.12.B.3

108. Can plastic wall panels be used for the ICRA walls, such as STARC Panels?

109. Will temporary sprinklers be required?

• There are no sprinkler heads in this project’s area of work.

110. Will the contractor be required to turn the existing sprinkler heads up during construction once the ceiling is removed?

• There are no sprinkler heads in this project’s area of work.

111. Will we have to test and balance the HVAC system after the work is complete?

112. Who is the manufacturer of the current Nurse Call system

• No nurse call in building.

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113. Please provide a contact for who services the current Nurse Call System

• No nurse call in building

114. Who is the manufacturer of the current Security and Access Control system?

• Software House

115. Please provide a contact for who services the current Security and Access Control System?

• JCI - brian.shallenberger@jci.com

116. Who is the manufacturer of the current Telecommunications system?

• CISCO

117. Please provide a contact for who services the current Telecommunications System?

• AT&T is used, we do not have a specific POC. Tickets are put in as needed.

118. Who is the manufacturer of the current HVAC Controls?

• Neptronic.

119. Please provide a contact for who services the current HVAC Controls?

• VA maintenance personnel.

120. Who is the existing signage vendor for this VA?

• Creative Signage.

121. Will the contractor be responsible for any permits?

52.236-7 Please read Solicitation - Permits and Responsibilities.

122. Are doors to be factory finished or field finished?

• Design intent is new doors to be factory finished, existing doors to remain and to be field finished.

123. Are any of the toilet and bath accessories going to be provided by the VA?

• All toilet and bath accessories shown on sheet A450 elevations and schedule are to be furnished and installed by contractor.

124. What is the height from finished floor to bottom of deck above?

• 10’11” mailto:brian.shallenberger@jci.com

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125. Will there need to be insulation above the new ceilings?

• Not included in the current design.

126. When performing any touch-up painting, can we go doorway to doorway, or do we have to go corner to corner?

• Corner to corner.

127. Will the VA have the space entirely cleared out before the contractor begins construction?

• Yes. Each phase will be cleared.

128. Will the contractor be required to move any of the existing furniture or equipment?

• No.

129. The contractor does not have to mail the bid bond correct?

• If contractor is submitting hard copy bid, then bid bond shall be mailed with bid pkg.

If contractor is submitting electronic bid, then bid bond shall be emailed with bid pkg.

The Contracting Officer may request original bid bond from apparent winner if submission was electronic.

130. Can the VA provide a copy of the asbestos inspection?

• Yes, please see “Asbestos Abatement Report 12.06.2024” published in Amendment 0008.

131. Would it be impossible [sic] to provide an exact quantity of Terrazzo flooring that has to be removed for bidding purposes, so that all bidders are bidding the same amount?

• Contractor is responsible for existing terrazzo quantity per site visit. Design team has made responsible efforts to document existing conditions without selective demo. Refer to sheet A101 demo keynote D-12.

132. Are any of the windows receiving any window treatments?

• No new window treatments in scope.

133. Regulated abatement project over 3,000 SF requires a NC Asbestos project design.

Who is providing this document?

• Contractor

134. Will the contractor be able to use a trash chute to remove demoed materials?

• Yes, dumpster location to be coordinated with VA and contractor is responsible for removal and reinstallation of window. Areas disturbed will be returned to same condition or better after dumpster is removed.

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135. Is there enough space down below for a trash chute to work?

136. Is a Dump bucket and Lull acceptable in lieu of a Trash chute?

• Yes. Contractor is responsible for removal and reinstallation of window. Areas disturbed will be returned to same condition or better after dumpster is removed.

137. Can you provide a basis of design for the plastic laminate cabinets?

• See elevation F7 on sheet A401. Also refer to spec section 12 32 00.

138. Can you provide a basis of design for the solid surface countertops?

• See elevation F7 on sheet A401. Also refer to spec section 12 36 00.

139. LBP is there any LBP remediation within the scope of work?

• Existing conditions are unknown. Design team recommends following conditions on third floor recommendations. Findings on third floor can be applied to second floor.

140. If yes can the Government, please identify quantity and location?

• No LBP is known. 3rd floor results in the attachment “VAMC Build 15 3rd FL ASB-LBP Report”

141. In reference to project Specifications, Section 01 45 00, Article 3.2.B.1, a separate CQC

System Manager is required in addition to the Site Superintendent – “Include a CQC System Manager that reports to the project superintendent.” Considering the project requires a separate individual for the role of SSHO, can the Site Superintendent “dual-hat” and also perform the duties of the CQC System Manager, so long as they can fulfill the requirements of that position and adequately perform both roles? With the size and complexity of this project, we believe that providing two individuals for the roles of Site Superintendent, SSHO, and CQC System Manager is sufficient.

• Superintendent can dual hat as CQC system manager.

142. Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC?

• Please refer to Specification 01 35 26 paragraph 1.7C

1.7 “SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER” (SSHO) AND “COMPETENT

PERSON” (CP):

c. These Competent Persons can have collateral duties as the subcontractor’s superintendent and/or work crew lead persons as well as fill more than one specialized CP role (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, 01 35 26 -11 Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations). However, the SSHO has to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO.

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143. Please confirm the issued drawing set dated February 9, 2024, is the latest and complete set.

• Confirmed, Drawings dated February 9, 2024 are the latest sent to VA.

144. Please confirm the current design documents meet current VA TIL guidelines.

• Design Documents follow the TiL guidelines unless directed otherwise from the VA.

145. Is the use of temporary plastic wall panels (such as STARC panels or EdgeGuard Wall Panels) acceptable in lieu of drywall partitions as shown on GI004?

146. Who is responsible for the terminal clean of the project area?

• VA

147. Please confirm order of precedence for the contract documents. Does SOW prevail over the specifications and construction drawings?

• No, Specifications will be the prevailing authority followed by Drawings then SOW.

148. Please confirm the required value of the Bid Bond for the project. FAR Clause 28.101-2 traditionally sets the value of the bid bond at 20% of Bid Value or $3M, whichever is greater.

The current solicitation states “The amount of the bid guarantee shall be 100 percent of the bid price or $3M, whichever is less.”

• “100 percent of the bid price or $3M, whichever is less” is correct.

20% is the minimum amount, which the Contracting Officer has the authority to determine.

(b) The contracting officer shall determine the amount of the bid guarantee for insertion in the provision at 52.228-1 (see 28.102-2(a)). The amount shall be adequate to protect the Government from loss should the successful bidder fail to execute further contractual documents and bonds as required. The bid guarantee amount shall be at least 20 percent of the bid price but shall not exceed $3 million. When the penal sum is expressed as a percentage, a maximum dollar limitation may be stated.

149. Please identify acceptable laydown areas for construction materials.

150. Please identify acceptable parking areas for contractors.

151. Please identify acceptable locations for dumpsters needed for construction.

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.228-1#FAR_52_228_1 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/28.102-2#FAR_28_102_2

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152. Please identify acceptable means of access to the project site for workers and material deliveries. Please confirm the central elevator can be utilized for delivery of materials and equipment as needed.

• Service elevator may be used by contractor. Materials and access to the site are to be from the rear (North) entrance of the building.

153. Please confirm working hours for the duration of demolition. Demolition work for existing spaces, including chipping/grinding of existing terrazzo and removal of existing plaster-on-clay walls, is likely to generate noise and vibrations that may transmit through the building structure. The Statement of Work states “Off-hour work including evenings and weekends will be required for work which transmits noise and vibrations through the building structure.”

• Confirmed, Work that transmits noise through the structure will need to be performed off hours as described in SOW.

154. Please identify the manufacturer and model of the existing Public Address/White Noise system that we are to integrate with, if applicable. Please provide contact information for the local representative responsible for this system, if applicable.

• Manufacturer: Dukane, Model: 13A177B, and 12SR37922-0400.

155. Please identify the manufacturer and model of the existing Video Surveillance system that we are to integrate with, if applicable. Please provide contact information for the local representative responsible for this system, if applicable.

• Qognify/Hexagon. Model: Ocularis. Serviced by JCI, Johnson Controls. Contact:

Brian Shallenberger, brian.shallenberger@JCI.com.

156. Please identify the manufacturer and model of the existing Access Controls/PACS system that we are to integrate with, if applicable. Please provide contact information for the local representative responsible for this system, if applicable.

• Software House, CCure 9000, JCI, Johnson Controls.

157. Please identify the manufacturer and model of the existing Fire Alarm system that we are to integrate with, if applicable. Please provide contact information for the local representative responsible for this system, if applicable.

• JCI, Johnson Controls, Simplex 4100ES, fully voice capable. Jeff.kilpatrick@JCI.com

158. Please confirm that TV Monitors as shown on A801 will be owner furnished, owner installed.

• GC to provide blocking in wall and power and data. TVs are owner furnished and owner installed. Contractor responsible for inwall blocking.

159. Please confirm that Dry-Erase Boards as shown on A801 will be owner furnished, owner installed.

• Dry erase boards are owner furnished and owner installed. Contractor responsible for inwall blocking.

mailto:brian.shallenberger@JCI.com mailto:Jeff.kilpatrick@JCI.com

10 February 2025 Page 20 of 24

160. GI005 calls for the abatement of caulking at existing door frames. This material is not identified in specification 02 82 11. Please confirm if abatement is required at caulking at existing door frames. If required, please provide approximate quantities in accordance with 02 82 11.

• This was based on the information identified from the 3rd Floor Plans.

161. GI005 calls for the abatement of existing fire doors. This material is not identified in specification 02 82 11. Please confirm if abatement is required at existing fire doors. If required, please provide approximate quantities in accordance with 02 82 11.

• This was based on the information identified from the 3rd Floor Plans.

162. A101 shows all walls in Room 202A Break Room MA-CPAC as existing to remain with finishes to be removed and prepared for paint. This room is to be renovated into a new toilet room with ceramic tile. Please confirm this room is to be demolished to structure beyond and new backer board is to be replaced in its entirety. Please confirm material to match 09 30 13.2.2

• Yes, demolition is required, install new backer board in toilet rooms as noted in spec section 09 30 13.2.2. Materials shown on interior finish schedule on sheet A701 and elevations on sheet A450 to be installed.

163. Scope of Work states that select doors are to be “refinished”. There are no references to refinishing doors on the drawings. Please confirm no doors are required to be refinished.

• Design intent is new doors to be factory finished, existing doors to remain to be field finished.

164. No roofing specifications are shown and no roofing details are shown. Please advise if contractor will be responsible for any roofing materials required. Please advise on the existing roofing system for this building.

• Install SSCU-1 on 3rd floor roof and provide new roof curb. No major roofing material.

165. Sheet A101 Keynote D-21 calls for the existing mud bed from Room 203 Toilet FMS to remain. Please confirm the existing mud bed is at the same elevation as the slab beneath the adjacent 204 & 204A Offices.

• Contractor will discern this upon demo.

166. Details for Type VNS Cabinet on A401 show no reveal panel beneath the countertop.

Elevation drawing for the VNS cabinet in room 202 Womens depicts a reveal panel to match the counters with vanities. Please confirm this panel is not required.

• Contractor to follow elevation F7, with laminate cabinets, and solid surface countertop and backsplash. In bathrooms, casework countertop is noted as detail 150 in elevations found on sheet A450.

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167. Sheet A201 Keynote A4 calls for Level 5 finish at locations to receive digital graphics. No locations are depicted on the drawings. Please confirm no such locations are required.

• Digital graphics have been removed from scope.

168. Please confirm flooring in new Room #221 TR is existing to remain. The new room is joining two adjacent spaces that may or may not have differing flooring systems.

• Per room finish tag, ceilings and walls are to remain existing. Walls are to be painted, and new base installed.

169. Sheet A201 Keynote A3 calls for the water fountain/water cooler to be owner furnished, contractor installed. Plumbing Drawing P001 calls for a new water fountain furnished and installed by the contractor. Please confirm if this equipment is to be furnished and installed by the Contractor.

• Contractor to follow notes on plumbing drawings.

170. Sheet A201 Keynote A8 calls for the relocation of existing lights. Electrical drawings depict demolition of existing lights and replacement with new. Please confirm all existing light fixtures are to be demolished and replaced.

• Existing Lights will be removed and discarded. Replace with LED Lights.

171. Please confirm if wall power outlets at cubicle furniture are to be furnished, installed, and wired by the contractor or by the owner vendor.

• Power outlets in cubicle furniture shall be furnished, installed, and wired by the owner vendor. Contractor shall made final connection to furniture. See new work keyed note 1/EP101.

172. Please confirm if wall data/communications outlets at cubicle furniture are to be furnished, installed, and wired by the contractor or by the owner vendor.

• Data/communications outlets in cubicle furniture shall be furnished, installed, and wired by the owner vendor. Contractor shall made final connection to furniture. See new work keyed note 1/EP101.

173. Sheet T101 refers to a new MS device within Room #221 TR. This device is not identified on the Telecommunications legend. Please define what this item is.

• The MS symbol is a motion sensor.

174. Drawing GI004 Phasing: I.E. During phase 3 both elevators, S-2 stairwell and men’s restroom will be unavailable for the Government to use on the 2nd floor. Can the government please confirm that no government personnel will be passing through our construction areas to access means of egress or bathrooms?

• No unauthorized personnel will enter the construction site.

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175. Drawing GI004 ICRA Barriers keynote 01. Can the Government please confirm that all barriers will only need to extend to the ceiling as shown on wall type detail 5 B?

• ICRA barriers must go from floor to deck as in detail 5A and 5C.

176. Drawing A100 general architectural note 10 “SEALANT SHALL BE PROVIDED AT

THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PERIMETER OF ALL WINDOWS, DOOR

FRAMES, LOUVERS OR OTHER ITEMS INSERTED IN AN EXTERIOR WALL”.

• See Q177 answer

177. Can the Government please confirm that this only applies to new work?

• Confirmed, only the new work requires note 10 on sheet A100

178. Drawing A101 detail 2 “CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING ALL DEMOLITION SHOWN IS NOT LOAD BEARING” Is the engineering of the demolition feasibility within the scope of this contract?

• Detail 2 is not load bearing.

179. Reference previous question: If yes can the Government please provide requirements and specification I.E. stamped drawings, destructive testing etc.?

• Q178 is no.

180. Drawing A201 Keynote A3 & fixture schedule on P001. A Drawings call for water fountain to be owner furnish contractor installed the P drawings make no mention of owner supplied. Can the government please confirm who is to furnish?

• Contractor to follow notes on plumbing drawings.

181. Drawing A701 finish legend. Can the Government please provide floor finishes for LVT1?

• The drawings were updated. SF1 was changed to LVT1. LVT1 used Taj Flooring, Wavelength, color Chia, 7” x 48” 5mm thick square edge as a basis of design.

182. Drawing M002 detail 10 “refer to Arch drawings for opening and lintel” cannot find detail. Can the government please provide lintel schedule and detail?

• Drawings were updated and removed need for opening and lintel.

183. Drawing MH102 detail 2. What is the roofing material?

• Install SSCU-1 on 3rd floor roof and provide new roof curb. No major roofing material.

184. Drawing MH102 detail 2. Who has the roof warranty if it’s still in effect?

• No longer in effect.

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185. Drawing E001 project general notes T. calls for owner to provide all labor, wiring and devises for communications, security and fire alarm with contractor only supplying boxes and conduit. Is this correct?

• All work associated with voice, data, cctv, catv, nurse call, Wi-Fi, public address, and security access, with the electrical contractor providing back boxes and conduit stubbed up with pull wire. This note does not include work associated with fire alarm.

186. Door hardware Are the locksets to be a certain brand?

• Brand not specified for this building. Follow spec section 08 71 00. All locksets must accept SFIC cores as specified in Q187.

187. Spec 01 00 00 C. key control & 08 71 00 1.9 B. Is the Contractor to provide keying or are we suppling 0 bitted cores and blank keys only?

• 0 bitted cores and blank keys, 7 pin cylinder, Best, COREMAX.

188. Spec 01 00 00 1.16 temporary use of elevators A & A* seem to conflict can you please clarify what usage will be permitted?

• A* is to be used. Service elevator (closest to back door) is the elevator to be used.

If equipment/material is too large other methods (ie a hoist) shall be used to get material to site.

189. Spec 01 91 00 1.7 systems to be commissioned seems to include work that is outside the scope of this project. Can the government please provide an updated schedule?

• CE didn’t write spec 01 91 00, but a quick review shows a few systems listed that are outside of this project scope. E.g., fire sprinkler systems, condenser water systems, HVAC energy recovery systems, HVAC terminal unit systems, emergency power generation systems, etc. This may need to be reviewed by Labella as well. This was from the 3rd Floor Spec Manual. Revised Spec Section added as attachment.

190. PACs - Who is the current contractor for PACs at the facility?

• JCI, Johnson Controls

191. Fire Alarm - Who is the current contractor for fire alarm at the facility?

• Johnson Controls

192. Owner supplied items. Can the Government please provide cut sheets for all owner suppled items?

• Final cubicles/furniture have not been selected yet.

193. Work hours - Work will need to be performed on both the floor above and below. What are the work hours for this work?

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• If space below and/or above are vacant/common and the work will not create excess noise the work may be completed during normal hours. Otherwise, off hours will be required.

194. Dumpsters - Can dumpsters for trash shoots be placed. Phase 1 North side of building West of elevator? Phase 2 East end of building? Phase 3 north side near elevator?

• Location of trash chutes to be coordinated with VA.

195. Drawing A101 keynote D18 references Terracotta Walls. Similar wall systems of this type were encountered on other projects at this facility. When they were removed it was discovered that they extended down into the slab about 4” and had to be filled after demo.

For bidding purposes would you accept a cubic foot price for supply and placement for fill material as part of our bid or will you handle it as a latent/hidden condition if it exists on this project?

• Handle as a latent/hidden condition.

196. Can the government please clarify if signage is within the scope of the project?

• Only temporary signage in line with 01 58 16 is within the scope of the project.

Permanent signage is the responsibility of the VA.

197. If yes, can the government provide missing drawing referenced in spec 10 14 00 2,3 F. 5.

• Answer to 196 is no.