RFIs.pdf

Questions and Answers

Please confirm whether the project Superintendent must be an employee of the Prime Contractor, or if a qualified subcontractor employee may serve in this role.

The same person may be used as long as the person meets the requirements for each role.

Please confirm if one individual may serve as Superintendent, SSHO, and/or QCM, provided they meet all qualification and certification requirements.

The same person may be used as long as the person meets the requirements for each role.

Please confirm allowable working hours for general construction vs. shutdown-related work, and whether multiple shutdowns per location are permitted to maintain productivity and meet the 8-hour limit.

Working hours can be extended if communicated with the COR. Multiple shutdowns may be allowed with additional communication.

Is there a required phasing or sequence for hydrant and valve replacements, or may the contractor determine sequencing to optimize schedule and minimize disruption?

The contractor may determine sequencing with VA approval

Please confirm designated staging areas, laydown space, and material access routes. Additionally, clarify if temporary parking or loading zones can be provided closer to work areas given site restrictions.

2 spaces will be provided as a laydown area. Parking will be limited to F-lot for contractors.

Will existing utility/as-built drawings or GIS data be provided to assist with underground utility verification, or is potholing expected to be included in the base scope?

The contractor shall hydro-excavate the hydrants and valves to ensure safe removal. Utility drawings will be provided.

Please clarify required procedures for flushing, chlorination, and testing of water systems, and whether third-party testing is required or by contractor.

Chlorination procedure is described in the specs and AWWA 651. Testing will be to ensure chlorine is flushed from the system and can be performed by the contractor with COR present. Biological testing is not required unless there is a concern of contamination due to construction methods

Please provide the official sign-in sheet biologicalre-bid site visit held on 03/25/2026. Additionally, confirm whether attendance at the site visit is a requirement for bid responsiveness or evaluation.

Attached to the amendment. There is not requirement to attend.

The SOW identifies replacement and installation of multiple hydrants and isolation valves; however, specific details such as manufacturer, model, size, and pressure rating are not clearly defined. Please confirm if a specific standard or approved manufacturer list should be followed.

Size and pressure rating are in the specs.

The specifications indicate that the facility must remain operational at all times and that utility interruptions require coordination.

Could you clarify:

• Allowed working hours for shutdowns

• Maximum duration permitted per shutdown

• Whether night or weekend work will be required.

Fire hydrants and valves have a little flexibility for durations since these can be isolated, but these are assumed to be re-pressurized at the end of shifts. The replacement of the existing isolation valve will need to be completed over a weekend.

The scope mentions testing of new components and system cleaning, but does not specify:

• Type of testing (e.g., pressure testing, bacteriological testing, flushing requirements)

• Required standards or acceptance criteria

• Whether a third-party testing agency is required

Chlorination procedure is described in the specs and AWWA 651. Testing will be to ensure chlorine is flushed from the system and can be performed by the contractor with COR present. Biological testing is not required unless there is a concern of contamination due to construction methods

End of Q&A