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Sheet1
| 556-23-101 (CON - IFB) Renovate CLC Building 134 - 2C for Pre -Bid Solicitation Questions - 01/21/2025 |
| Captain James A Lovell Federal Health Care Center (FHCC) Solicitation for Bidders |
| This IFB Pre-Bid response is intended to clarify the scope, not conflict with it. |
| If a response appears to conflict with the scope, please contact the VA COR. |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 01/21/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 1 | | I was trying to download the following files for the above project from sam.gov, I got all of them downloaded, except this one, it keeps giving me a error message. | Please re-check your system settings because I just downloaded this document with no issues as you’ve described below. | 0001 |
| 2 | | I’m reaching out regarding the VA project 36C25025B0005 - Renovate CLC Building 134 2C. I wanted to confirm the RFI deadline. In the Standard Form 1442 Solicitation it states questions are due 2/7, but on page 6 of the RFP it states questions are due no later than 10 calendar days prior to the bid date (2/4), can you please confirm which date is correct. Also, the Sam.gov solicitation states that bids are due 2/14 but on the Standard Form 1442 it states bids are due 2/21. Please confirm the correct bid due date. this matter. | ANSWER: Amendment 0001 corrects the administrative errors as you noted in your request. | 0001 |
| 3 | | Currently, both site visits are scheduled on the same day of the week at the same time. Is it possible to have one of the visits be scheduled on a different day/time (e.g. a Thursday at 1:00pm) | The Contracting Officer (CO) has reviewed your request to change the scheduled site visit of January 28, 2025 to a different day/time (e.g. a Thursday at 1:00pm). The CO determined that it would be inappropriate to change the date as you've requested. | 0001 |
| 4 | | Please confirm if the building permit is the GC’s responsibility | VA does not pay for review or inspection fees (section 014100 par. 2.I). | 0005 |
| 5 | | Please confirm if the superintendent can be SSHO & QCM | The Contractor's Superintendent cannot serve as the SSHO (section 013526 par.1.9.C). The Contractor's SSHO cannot serve as the QCM (section 013526 par.1.9.C). The Contractor's Superintendent may serve as the QCM, provided the Superintendent meets or exceeds minimum requirements for both roles (section 014500 par. 3.1, 3.5.A, 3.5.B, 3.5.C, 3.5.D). | 0005 |
| 6 | | Please provide specification for masonry infills required for this project. | The masonry spec is included by amendment. | 0005 |
| 7 | | Please provide specification for the concrete infills required for this project. | The concrete spec is included by amendment. | 0005 |
| 8 | | Please confirm if there is an existing roof warranty for this building, if so, who is the contractor? | Yes. There is a current warranty with "The Garland Company, Inc." | 0005 |
| 9 | | Please confirm if the patient lift systems are to be owner provided and GC to install. | Contractor furnishes and installs patient lifts (sheet QH101, JSN# A1200, A1203). | 0005 |
| 10 | | Please confirm if the appliances on this project are to be owner provided and GC to install. | See Specialty Equipment Tables for equipment acquisition codes (sheet QH101). | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 01/21/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 11 | | Please confirm if there are any alternates for this project. | See statement of bid items (section 010000 par. 1.3). Section 010000 is included by amendment). | 0005 |
| 12 | | I need your assistance with the temporary construction barriers for this project: | For first floor containment requirements, see Sheets GC101 and GC102 General Notes A and B. For containment barrier requirements, see section 013533 par. 1.2.4. | 0005 |
| | a. 1st Floor (Occupied): The ICRA Plan is in place, but it does not specify the requirements for "Temporary Construction Barriers." | | |
| | b. 2nd Floor ICRA Plan: | | 0005 |
| | The plan includes references to temporary barriers, but I have a few questions for clarification: | | |
| | 2.1. Barrier Icon: | | |
| | Can you confirm the correct icon for the temporary barriers? The current plan shows a green “Temporary Construction Barrier” label pointing to a small area of about 15 feet. | Construct the temporary barrier walls as indicated by leadered note on Sheet GC102 in Room A249 using the wall barrier drawn in adjacent detail F6/GC102. | |
| | However, the barrier icon (see Image 2.1) appears to stretch across the entire second floor. | The question about walls that "stretch across the entire second floor" and attached image 2.1 refer to permanent, smoke tight walls that are drawn and noted on AE102. | 0005 |
| | 2.1.1 Barrier Installation Phasing: | | 0005 |
| | If barriers are indeed required across the full second floor, is there a phased installation plan? | Temporary barriers are not needed across the full second floor. The existing second floor is mostly gutted, as shown on sheet AD102. | |
| | Should the barriers be installed all at once, or will they be added progressively as construction advances? | Temporary barriers in Room A249 must be constructed concurrently, as noted on sheet GC102. | 0005 |
| | Please let me know if the attached icon is accurate for temporary barriers and provide clarification on the scope and phasing. | No, the temporary barrier walls are noted by leadered keynote in Room A249, as shown on Sheet GC102. | 0005 |
| | Image 2.1 Temporary Barrier Icon Is this the right icon for Temp barriers | No, the temporary barrier walls are noted by leadered keynote in Room A249 on Sheet GC102. | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 01/21/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 12 | | ICRA Plan for 2nd Floor - Temporary Construction Barriers - Arrows point to a small area but icon traverses across 2nd floor. | Temporary barriers are not needed across the full second floor. The existing second floor is mostly gutted, as shown on sheet AD102. However, temporary barrier walls are required in Room A249, as shown on GC102. | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 13 | | We are submitting a bid for the VA Lovell Renovation and we had a couple questions. | [Clarification: Question refers to Keynote 1 on sheet MD100.] | |
| Sheet MD100 is reissued as an amendment to clarify this work. Throughout the project scope, infill remaining wall openings with partition type C4 (typical). | 0005 | | | | |
| | | 1) MD1.01, Sheet Keynotes #1, asks that the existing ductwork in the hatched area be removed, which are only a few smaller lengths of duct, but there is no mention of replacing those areas that are removed. | | |
| | | a. Is the contractor responsible for replacing those sections, or are we to cap the ducts, or what? | | |
| | | And just to be clear, | | |
| | 14 | 2) I have been unable to reach the Control System Integrator, Christopher Beller, as outlined in the project specs. Are there preferred contractors that are required for this project, or do we HAVE to use Automated Logic? | Refer to "Name Brand or Equal Items" listed on sheet GI000 (section 014000 par. Quality Control #8). | 0005 |
| | | Please provide a contact at Automated Logic with whom we can speak to be able to provide a quote for these services. | Automated Logic Project Manager is Michael Maruszak 630-816-5069 michael.maruszak@carrier.com | |
| | 15 | Please provide type of access control system, cameras, recording system, and location of the panels / network room. | Refer to name brand or equal items on sheet GI000. The list of items state the access control system is Lenel 2020 series. Cameras are to be comptable with station standards and connect to the wing's NVR camera system. The location of the panels/network room are in OIT room #A251. | 0005 |
| | 16 | How will payment be handled for materials stored offsite or onsite prior to installation? Full payment? Partial payment? Proof required that the materials have been paid for? Assuming the government will not pay for uninstalled materials, should the contractors include the carrying costs for materials until they are installed (financing, storage, etc.)? | VAAR 852.232-71 was not included in the CON-IFB Solicitation 36C25225B0005. The clause, though not included in the solicitation is updated via this amendment and will be included in the contract at award. IAW VAAR 852.232-71(d) - The Contracting Officer will consider for monthly progress payments material and/or equipment procured by the Contractor and stored on the construction site, as space is available, or at a local approved location off the site, under such terms and conditions as the Contracting Officer approves, including but not limited to the following - Please read VAAR 852.232-71(d) for further clarification/understanding. | 0005 |
| | 17 | CQCM - Is the Contractor Quality Control Manager required to be onsite full time with no other duties? | The CQ System Manager is not required to be on site full time with no other duties (section 014500). However, CQC Personnel are required to have no other duties other than quality control (section 014500 par. 3.5.C). And a member of the Contractor's CQC Organization shall maintain a presence at the site at all times during progress of the work (section 014500 par. 3.5.A). | 0005 |
| | 18 | CQCS - The individual Quality Control Specialists that are required for each trade and for Structural, Civil, and Environmental, etc., are to work directly for the Prime Contractor. Can they be part time employees? | Section 014500 does not state if direct employment by the Prime Contractor includes part time employment (section 014500 par. 3.5.C). | 0005 |
| | 19 | SSHO – Is the Site Safety and Health Officer required to be onsite full time with no other duties? | Yes (section 013526 par. 1.9.A). | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 20 | | Sustainable Construction Requirements – This is very comprehensive and costly. Will the government consider scaling this back to fit the scope of the project? | The contractor shall adhere to the specifications of the project. This request is vague and does not point to what might be costly. The Sustainable Construction Requirements will be a compliance metric. VA does not see what could be done to "scale back" as the specs are already "in-scope". | 0005 |
| 21 | | Change order pricing – will change orders be approved with the standard 10% OH +10% profit? | Prime Contractors can have a fee that can be negotiated on a declining scale (10%, 7.5%, 5%) as the price/cost goes up. Please refer to VAAR 852.243-70 Construction Contract Changes - Supplement. | 0005 |
| 22 | | Are there any major demolition work elements required that are not listed/depicted in the demolition drawings that need to occur in order for new finishes to be installed. If so, will they by identified on the demolition drawings? | There are no major demolition work elements that are unshown. | 0005 |
| 23 | | Please provide specification 010000. It is listed in Table of Contents, but has not been provided. There will potentially be additional questions once that is able to be reviewed. | Spec section 010000 General Requirements included as an attachment to Amendment 0005 | 0005 |
| 24 | | The specifications Table of Contents lists 263623 “Automatic Transfer Switches” as a specification section, but the section is not found in the issued Spec Book. Please issue section 263623 “Automatic Transfer Switches.” | Record documents TOC list specification 263623 as being a submitted document and is included in the specification book. It can be found on page 1207 of 1608 of the "556-23-101 Combined Specs 100 Percent 14June24" PDF file. | 0005 |
| 25 | | The specification book includes section 280528.33 “Conduits and Backboxes for Electronic Safety and Security” but this section is not listed in the Table of Contents. Please confirm is this spec section is to be used for this project. | Record documents TOC list specification 280528.33 as being a submitted document and is included in the specification book. The specification is to be used and can be found on page 1481 of 1608 of the "556-23-101 Combined Specs 100 Percent 14June24" PDF file. | 0005 |
| 26 | | Please confirm requirements for required onsite personnel. Refer to specifications 013323 and 014500. Is the GC required to have 1, 2 or 3 onsite personnel full time while work is being performed? We interpret that we are required to have (1) SSHO/Safety and (1) QC while work is being performed. This affects project costs. Please confirm. | To confirm, the Contractor is required to have one (1) full time SSHO during each work shift (section 013526 par. 1.9.A). The Contractor is required to have one (1) member of the Contractor's CQC Organization must maintain a presence at the site at all times during progress of the work (section 014500 par. 3.5.A). | 0005 |
| 27 | | Per specification 01 45 00 QUALITY CONTROL, 3.5, Item B, it states that the CQC System Manager is required to be a licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. Could other qualifications or certifications (such as a degree in construction management or a professional certification) be considered in lieu of some of the required years of experience, particularly if they show proven competency in related work? | No | 0005 |
| 28 | | Specification 078400 Firestopping, please confirm that any inspectors of fireproofing are required to be independent 3rd party contractor and ASTM E699 certified. | Confirmed, section 078400 requires an independent, 3rd party contractor meeting the criteria contained in ASTM E699 (section 078400 par. 1.5.C, 3.5.B. | 0005 |
| 29 | | Specification 013216.12, 1.3, A, please confirm that the schedule is to be created by third-party scheduling consultant, and cannot be created in house by Contractor. | The scheduling consultant shall not have any financial ties, business ties, affiliation with, or be a subsidiary company of the Contractor (01 32 16.15 par. 1.3.A). | 0005 |
| 30 | | Specification 101400, has this been coordinated with updated VA style design? Has it also been coordinated with signage specific project underway at Lovell FHCC currently? | The signage specs have not been coordinated with the current wayfinding project. VA interior design to coordinate with GC for station specific signage requirements during this project submittal period. | 0005 |
| 31 | | What are the construction hours? Are we able to start as early as 6:00 am? | For areas requiring off-hour work, refer to drawings and specifications. | 0005 |
| | Please confirm any areas that require off-hour work. | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 32 | | Are contractors required to provide trailers and/or storage boxes? | Yes. Open material storage is not allowed on site. | 0005 |
| 33 | | Will the VA provide laydown/storage areas? If so, where will they be located? | See sheet AS100. | 0005 |
| 34 | | Will the VA provide an area for a dumpster? If so, where will that be located? | See sheet AS100. | 0005 |
| 35 | | Are CAD files available for all of the issued drawings? Or will they be available after award is made? | AE does not issue CAD files to the contractor. They may be provided by VA when necessary, and if available. | 0005 |
| 36 | | For asbestos abatement, please confirm that contractor will only be responsible for monitoring within contract work area, and VA will monitor outside of construction area. | The Contractor provides monitoring, inspection, and testing inside and around the regulated area (section 028211 par. 2.A.1). | 0005 |
| 37 | | Will the VA be providing an electronic submittal program, or is it expected that the general contractor provides this? Are there programs or software that are acceptable? | VA has a contract to run Submittal Exchange on the current projects. Upon selection of a GC the process will start to create a new submittal exchange TO for this project. | 0005 |
| 38 | | Are there any requirements regarding photographic documentation? Please confirm if this will be required as part of this project? If required, must this be a 3rd party service? Or can it be performed inhouse by general contractor? | Photographic documentation during construction is not required. | 0005 |
| 39 | | Please provide as built plans for fire protection. | Current status of floorplan is open. Last project was a demo project to gut the entire floor. There are no current FP As-Builts. | 0005 |
| 40 | | Please provide specifications and a manufacturer for the Access Control system. | Specification 281300 has already been provided. The access control system shall be an extension of the existing building system and shall have full native compatibility with the existing system. | 0005 |
| 41 | | Please provide specifications and a manufacturer for the Intercom System. | Utilize specifications 270533, 280500, and 281300. The lntercom system shall be interfaced to intercom/door station at security desk. Coordinate with door hardware vendor for exact requirements. | 0005 |
| 42 | | Please provide manufacturer for existing Video Surveillance System. | Specification 282300 has been provided. The video surveillance system shall be an extension of the existing building system and shall have full native compatibility with the existing system. | 0005 |
| 43 | | Please clarify the signage scope of work for this project. | | 0005 |
| | a. Is new signage required for rooms and bathrooms? | See signage sheet AI901. | |
| | b. If so, please provide quantities and specifications. | See section 101400 and signage sheet AI901. | |
| | c. Web link provided for standard signage is from 2023, please | Refer to latest edition (General Sheet Note 1, AI901). | |
| | confirm we are to use those standards. | | |
| 44 | | Please verify if abatement work is to be completed under this contract. | Yes. | 0005 |
| 45 | | The print shows pitching down to drains in the areas to receive the new epoxy. In those rooms, will the sub floor be removed to allow new pitching or are we to buildup at the doorway and pitch down to the drain? | See detail F8/AI601. | 0005 |
| | a. If we do it that way, there could be a 1” or more height | Patient Bathrooms do not connect to corridors (AE102). | 0005 |
| | difference from the bathroom and the corridor. | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 46 | | What is the make and model of the fire alarm system? | Simplex 4100 Series Fire Alarm. Refer to "Name Brand or Equal Items" listed on sheet GI000 (section 014000 par. Quality Control #8). | 0005 |
| 47 | | Please confirm all alternates are no longer required and we should ignore drawing alternate references. | Question is vague and more information is required to answer. | |
Alternate SSHO?
Alternate Superintendent?
| Bid alternates? | 0005 | | | | |
| | 48 | Please confirm that the QCM does not need to be on site full time only a QCM member. | The Contractor is required to have one (1) member of the Contractor's CQC Organization must maintain a presence at the site at all times during progress of the work (section 014500 par. 3.5.A). | 0005 |
| | 49 | Please confirm full time superintendent can also serve as part of the QCM team and can fulfill fulltime QCM TEAM ON SITE REQUIREMENT. | Provided the full-time superintendent meets the criteria, Section 014500 takes no exception to the full-time superintendent serving as part of the Contractor's CQC Organization. If the superintendent serves dual roles as a member of the CQC Organization, Section 014500 takes no exception to the superintendent fulfilling the QC on site requirement. | 0005 |
| | 50 | Please confirm we will also need a system inspector while med gas work is being performed. | A system inspector and system verifier shall be physically present at the construction site during work (section 014500 par. 3.5.C). | 0005 |
| | 51 | Please confirm if any led paint abatement will be required per a specification 02 83 33.13, if so, please provide drawing. | Lead abatement drawings are not necessary. Bid lead abatement work according to remaining walls in second floor shell space (sheet AD102). | 0005 |
| | 52 | Please confirm perimeter plaster wall is not asbestos and is not coated with lead paint. | Bid the abatement work in accordance with areas indicated on sheets HA100 and HA101. Bid the lead abatement work according to remaining walls in second floor shell space (sheet AD102). | 0005 |
| | 53 | HA-100-Please confirm first floor asbestos abatement only consist of ACM Pipe insulation and is to be performed per spec. 02 82 13.3 GLOVE BAG ABATEMENT. | Confirmed. | 0005 |
| | 54 | Specification section 02 82 13.3 refers to attached environmental survey but no survey is attached. | Sheets HA100 and HA101 are the environmental survey. | 0005 |
| | 55 | HA-101-Please confirm second floor asbestos abatement only consist of Radiator Cubbies. | Confirmed. | 0005 |
| | 56 | Please confirm if we are to just abate the pipe insulation feeding the radiators for the Radiator Cubbies abatement. | See sheet HA101 for abating the radiator cubbies. | 0005 |
| | 57 | F1/AE004-Please confirm no fireproofing of existing steel is required as indicated in referenced detail. | The existing building is a reinforced concrete structure. However, there are existing steel beams in select areas. If Contractor damages the fireproofing, the Contractor must repair those damaged areas with like material. | 0005 |
| | 58 | KEYNOTE 21/AD101-Please confirm quantity of 2” slab depression infill to include in our proposal. | Sheet AD101 does not contain Keynote 21. Sheet AD102 contains Keynote 2, which requires infill for the 2-inch slab depressions where walls were removed. Provide an infill quantity of 2000 SF for 2-inch depressions. | 0005 |
| | 59 | KEYNOTE 4/AD102-Please provide detail of existing 2nd floor slab to be removed for new shaft and reinforcing detail for slab opening. | The third floor slab opening denoted by Keynote 4/AD102 is constructed by a separate project. There is no second floor slab opening at Keynote 4/AD102. | 0005 |
| | 60 | GENERAL NOTE B/AE102-Please confirm we are to use the 1/8” cement leveling compound to pitch the toilet rms & showers to the new floor drains and if so, what is the required pitch. | The required pitch is defined as pitch floor to drain for positive flow. | 0005 |
| | 61 | Please confirm that the entire second floor is receiving a 1/8” skim coat and if so pleas provide material specification. | Confirmed, the entire second floor project area receives a 1/8-inch cementitious coat (General Note Q/sheet AD101). Refer to spec section 090516 for requirements. | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 62 | | C8/AE501-Please confirm if there are any cmu infills on this project as shown in the detail and if so please keynote them on the drawing. | There are limited CMU infills in the shell space. It is recommended bidders tour the project area. | 0005 |
| 63 | | Please confirm location of low height pony wall partitions other than those shown on drawing AI202 Plan C-9. | Detail C9/AI202 is the sole location for pony walls. | 0005 |
| 64 | | Please confirm first and second floor deck height. | Refer to sheet AE300. | 0005 |
| 65 | | Please confirm that the new door and frames do not need to meet the new wall STC Rating. | Comply with door and frame STC ratings stated in specifications (sections 081113 and 081400). | 0005 |
| 66 | | Please confirm if stained wood doors are to be prefinished at the factory or stained in the field. | For wood doors, provide only factory prefinished wood doors (section 081400). | 0005 |
| 67 | | ATTACHMENT 2A ADDENDUM MEMO. | | 0005 |
| | Please incorporate memo into design drawings. | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | |
| | MEMO references soap dispensers as VC but QH101 does not | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | 0005 |
| | include them in SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE CC. | | |
| 68 | | MEMO references hand sanitizers as VC but QH101 does not | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | 0005 |
| | include them in SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE CC. | | |
| | MEMO references toilet seat cover dispensers as VC but QH101 | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | 0005 |
| | does not include them in SPECIALTY EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE | | |
| | CC. | | |
| | MEMO States that the patient lift system is furnished and | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | 0005 |
| | installed by VA-Please confirm. | | |
| 69 | | Please confirm all VA furnished items will be delivered to the second floor. | Addendum MEMO supercedes Specialty Equipment Schedule CC. Follow the changes referenced in the addendum. | 0005 |
| 70 | | Please confirm if we can use existing Elevator for material deliveries and demolition debris removal. | No (section 010000 par. 1.15.A). | 0005 |
| 71 | | Please confirm if we need to include moisture mitigation under all new flooring, if so, there is a floor skimming material that also serves as moisture mitigation. | Install waterproof membrane under RES-2 (section 096723.20 par. 2.2.C) and other locations required by construction documents. | 0005 |
| 72 | | A1200-Please prove detail for wall mounted tv bracket showing required in wall blocking. | See C7/AE004. | 0005 |
| 73 | | Please confirm if our MEP contractor’s will need to produce CAD DRAWINGS. | MEP Contractor will be required to provide coordination drawings for review by the AE. They will need to produce Red-line drawings for the AE to create As-Builts at the end of the project. If they choose to use CAD, that is their choice. | 0005 |
| 74 | | Please confirm no building permit is required and if so, the cost will be reimbursed as a change order. | Contractor pays all permits and fees. However, no general building permit is required. | 0005 |
| 75 | | KEYNOTE 4/MD101 references architectural drawing for window repair detail at remove window mounted air conditioner but we could not find the detail. | Refer to Keynote 13 on sheet AD102. | 0005 |
| 76 | | Please confirm if the thermostat low voltage wiring need to be in conduit. | Yes (section 230923 par. 3.1.B.1). | 0005 |
| 77 | | E8/MH502-Please size cu support steel. | The condensing unit's support construction is heavy-duty aluminum using all welded construction and sized according to the support manufacturer's recommendations based on the awarded Contractor's submitted condensing unit and project location (North Chicago, IL). | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 78 | | Please confirm if there are any AUTOMATIC DOOR OPERATORS on this project as specified under specification 08 71 13. As none are shown on the door schedule or architectural drawings. | Automatic door operators are shown in spec section 087100 in the specified hardware sets. | 0005 |
| 79 | | Please confirm that black iron ductwork venting is required out of a residential wall cap. This is not common when exhausting a commercial hood. | Replace specified wall cap with a heavy duty, commercial, stainless steel wall cap. Basis of Design, or Equal: Luxury Metals (phone: 206-406-7346) Wall Vent, Stainless Steel, 8-inch, with Screen (meets Buy American Act). | 0005 |
| 80 | | MD1.01, Sheet Keynotes #1, asks that the existing ductwork in the hatched area be removed, which are only a few smaller lengths of duct, but there is no mention of replacing those areas that are removed. | Duplicate question. See item No. 13 for response | 0005 |
| | a. Is the contractor responsible for replacing those sections, or | | |
| | are we to cap the ducts, or what? | | |
| 81 | | I have been unable to reach the Control System Integrator, Christopher Beller, as outlined in the project specs. Are there preferred contractors that are required for this project, or do we HAVE to use Automated Logic? | Duplicate response, see item 14. | 0005 |
| | Please provide a contact at Automated Logic with whom we can | | |
| | speak to be able to provide a quote for these services. | | |
| 82 | | Per EE502 Detail F3 Gn.3. states “Verify Roof and Structural System with Architect.” We would like to seek these verifications and clarifications surrounding existing Roof System. Can you please confirm Existing and desired Flashing materials and methods? This is necessary to assure maintaining existing roof Warranty. | The existing roof is a hot-mopped styrene-butadiene-styrene modified bitumous membrane roof with reflective granular coating. For penetration flashing, use a compatible SBS-modified membrane with SBS modified flashing cement in accordance with SBS-modified manufacturer standard details. | 0005 |
| 83 | | Panels “E” & “EM1” shown on one-line (EE601) cannot be located in the drawing set. Please provide locations of panels “E” and “EM1”. | Panels "E" and "EM1" are existing to remain panelboards. As shown on sheet EE601, Panel "E" will be provided with a new 60-amp breaker for new subpanel "2C-EB". Also Panel "EM1" will be provided with a new 60-amp breaker for new subpanel "2C-LS". | 0005 |
| 84 | | Good Afternoon, please see below RFI for Solicitation 36C25225B0005. | Refer to "Name Brand or Equal Items" listed on sheet GI000 (section 014000 par. Quality Control #8). | 0005 |
| | In Specification section 27 52 23 2.3 Manufacturers there is place | | |
| | holder (brand name) will the government accept or equal nurse call | | |
| | system? | | |
| 85 | | Are you handling the bidding on this project? If so, I am looking to obtain a planholders list / Pre-bid meeting list if possible. If not, could you point me in the right direction? | Pre-bid site visit sign-in-sheets for 1/21/2025 and 1/28/2025 were posted to SAMs Contract Opportunities via Amendment 0001 and 0002 respectively. | 0003 |
| 86 | | Need your help to get access to the sign-in sheet for the Jan 21st site walkthrough. I am a sub-contractor and will use this sheet to reach out to GCs for their ICRA Temporary Barrier Wall needs. | Pre-bid site visit sign-in-sheets for 1/21/2025 and 1/28/2025 were posted to SAMs Contract Opportunities via Amendment 0001 and 0002 respectively. | 0003 |
| 87 | | Amendment Modification Number 0001 (link) issued on 01-24-2025 does not answer my ICRA RFI questions sent on 01-23-2025. Hoping that it will be responded to in future amendments. | Amendment 0001 was posted with attachment S04_Site Visit Sign-In-Sheet 556-23-101 Renovate CLC Bldg. 134 - 2C_01212025. | 0003 |
| 88 | | Can you please include a new RFI to clarify the NEGATIVE Pressure needs for this project. | Ask the questions that you have for specific negative pressure needs and it will be answered. | 0005 |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/07/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 88 | | Location - Is this needed only on the 2nd floor or are there any | Yes, HEPA filtration units are required on first and second floors. | 0005 |
| | negative pressure needed on the 1st floor. | | |
| | Please elaborate on sections of the plan documents need negative | Use the Class IV designated on sheet GC101 and GC102. | |
| | pressure. Every section that states ICRA or select sections.. | | |
| | Phases - What phase of the project does need this negative | Use HEPA filtration units for the duration of construction. | |
| | pressure. Entire duration or any limited duration. | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/11/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 89 | | Good afternoon. I’m emailing today with a question related to a request we received today and are currently working on. George with Quantum Crossings sent over the attached floorplan (page EY101) for Building 134C-2C CLC 2nd Floor. He requested we assist with putting together a wander system design for this area, for this renovation project. They are bidding all the electrical for this renovation. | Install new patient elopement prevention system per drawings and specifications. | 0005 |
| | This appears to be the exact same area we installed a system a little over a year ago. Contract #36C25222C0078 was for that installation. Page GI102 (also attached) shows the floorplans for that area…..and so does the attachment labeled VAMC-North Chicago_P3 (this is the finalized floorplan file we baked into the ResidentGuard software). | | |
| | Is this a request to obtain a wander system design for the same area | | |
| | we just installed this in? George let me know the building is | | |
| | completely gutted. Was the equipment we installed about a year | | |
| | ago in 134C completely removed during this renovation? | | |
| | On another note, can I find out what Nurse Call System was used on | Ascom Telligence 6 Nurse Call | |
| | Third Floor, so I can keep them consistent. | | |
| 90 | | I have the following RFI for the above project: | a. Confirmed, elevations D4 and E1 on AI201 require WP-2 from floor to ceiling within these two niches, as shown. | 0005 |
| | Rooms 268, 270 & 270A call for WP-2 wall finishes. | | |
| | a. Elevations D4&E1 per AI201 appear to require this material | | |
| | from floor to ceiling within these two niche's. Please confirm if | | |
| | this is correct? | | |
| | b. Rooms 268 & 270 also calls for this material per the | | |
| | ------- - - - ------- line wall finish designation. Those walls are indicating the height requirements at these locations. | | |
| | highlighted in light green below. Please confirm the material | | |
| | height requirement at these locations as I have been unable to | | |
| | find any information indicating the height requirements at these | | |
| | locations. | | |
SEE IMAGE BELOW
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/11/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 90 | | | | 0005 |
| 91 | Detail E4/AE510 calls for a Crash Rail. Unfortunately, the finish | Install 3'-4" linear feet of Crash Rail as shown in detail E4/AE510 in each private resident room, behind the bed. Center the crash rail on the bed centerline drawn in detail C6/AI200 and in floor plans. Center the crash rail height on the bumpers of resident beds to be procured by VA (JSN #2405). | 0005 |
| schedule does not call out this product, nor does this appear to show | | |
| up on the wall protection plan per sheet AI101. Please confirm if and | | |
| where this material is to be implemented. SEE IMAGE BELOW | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/11/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 92 | | Per the provided site photos, there are openings below the | See Keynote 8/AD102. Install 4-inch thick closed cell spray foam insulation with intumescent thermal barrier on all interior sides of radiator cubbies. | 0005 |
| | perimeter windows similar to Building 5 we are working on. Per | | |
| | section detail C8/AE501 these openings / covers would appear to be | | |
| | buried by the new partitions. Please confirm if any work will be | | |
| | required at the openings, or will they be left in their current state, | | |
| | with no work required, as I have been unable to find any information | | |
| | calling out any work at these openings / covers. | | |
| | SEE IMAGES BELOW | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/12/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 93 | | I have the following RFI’s that were just submitted to me for the above project: | | |
| | | NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/12/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| | | 93 | | The project documents say “The first floor will be active and open for | The scope of this project includes renovating the second floor. First floor access is included in the scope to be able to coordinate items like drains. Conduits and circuits slated for demolition will be removed all the way to the source. | 0005 |
| | | | | normal use during construction”. But the drawings say to “remove | | |
| | | | | conduits and circuits back to the source”. That means the first floor | | |
| | | | | will be without lights and power for some period of time. I don’t see | | |
| | | | | how the first floor will be in use by anyone during that time. | | |
| | | 94 | | Project documents say the tradesman can only work in 2 rooms at a | The first floor is the area that will be limited to 2 rooms at a time due to the "active and normal use" by VA personnel. The entire second floor area in the scope of this project will be available at the same time. | 0005 |
| | | | | time. With HVAC, plumbing, electrical and all other trades needing to | | |
| | | | | occupy the same space at some point I don’t see how we can all | | |
| | | | | work in 2 rooms at the same time. | | |
| | | 95 | | Nothing on the drawings indicates where the electrical “source” is for | First floor electrical is not in scope for demo on this project. | 0005 |
| | | | | the first floor Unit A and Unit C power. If we are to demo “back to | | |
| | | | | the source” we need to know where the source is located. What | | |
| | | | | electrical panel is supplying power to first floor units A & C lighting, | | |
| | | | | outlets , receptacles etc. | | |
| | | 96 | | I have a concern regarding the floor below the build out. All of the | As the drawings clearly state: "All first floor work occurs two rooms at a time." The access to those rooms will be during normal construction hours. After hours is not anticipated for this portion of the work. | 0005 |
| | | | | existing MEP piping for the build in hung from the underside of the | | |
| | | | | floor slab. There is a reflective ceiling demo plan. Its more | | |
| | | | | complicated than just removing ceiling tile/grid and removing piping. | | |
| | | | | This floor is 100% occupied. Extra floor, wall, furniture protection, | | |
| | | | | cleaning will be required. Is this after hours work? | | |
| | | NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/13/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| | | 97 | Division 27 | 275223 – We are to install a new Nurse Call system. Is there a | Nurse call is managed by VA Biomed in-house. | 0005 |
| | | | | maintenance contact for an existing Nurse Call System? If so, can | | |
| | | | | the VA advise who had this maintenance contract? Will additional | | |
| | | | | software licenses be needed for future expansion? | | |
| | | 98 | Division 28 | 281300, 281600, 282300 – We are to expand the current security | The manufacturer is LENEL for door access and surveillance cameras. The software maintenance contract is through eNorman Securities. Yes, licenses will need to be purchased for the new card readers and new cameras. | 0005 |
| | | | | systems installed. Can the VA advise the manufacturer of the IDS | | |
| | | | | and VASS? Is there an existing maintenance contract for this | | |
| | | | | system? If so, can you please advise who has this maintenance | | |
| | | | | contract? Will additional software licenses be needed? | | |
| | | NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/17/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| | | 99 | | I am writing in reference to the above mentioned RFP. Offers are due on Friday, 2/21/25 and I have not seen an updates to the contract opportunity on sam.gov since 1/29/25. We are looking for a RFI responses and/or an addendum. Do you know when that will be release? | As soon as I receive the answers to all RFI’s (more than 100 that has to be addressed), I will post immediately. I will be posting an amendment this week to extend the bid offer due date. | Responded to via email and Amendment 0005 |
| | | 100 | | Greetings, | | |
| I am wondering if we will be seeing answers to RFI Questions soon? Do you expect there to be a bid due date extension? | As soon as I receive the answers to all RFI’s (more than 100 that has to be addressed), I will post immediately. I will be posting an amendment this week to extend the bid offer due date. | Responded to via email and Amendment 0005 | | | | | |
| | | NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/19/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/19/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 101 | | Hi All, | An updated document will be provided via amendment: S06_Att5 CON-IFB Amendment 0005 Wage Rates SAM IL current as of 02202025 | Responded to via email and Amendment 0005 |
| | I believe the file called S02_Att5 Wage Rates SAM IL current as of 01032025.pdf is corrupt, on SAM.GOV. The snaps below are directly from a fresh download a couple of minutes ago. Can you please check it out from your end? | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/21/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 102 | | Good afternoon – | While most of the 01 45 00 Quality Control Specifications are often the same, there are some that will be edited for other projects. The specifications were tailored to this project and also utilized elsewhere where the requirement was necessary. | |
The important takeaway on this specification is the quality control aspect. The requirement for professional qualifications is to ensure that any RFI requests, submittals, proposals, will be thoroughly prepared and vetted before it is submitted to the VA, AE, and CxA for review. The review and subsequent re-review process is a big waste of time and money for both the GC and VA due to poorly prepared submittals and other plans. Having the qualifications in place to coordinate all of these required documents will save money and time.
There should be at least 2 professionals on the job at all times. The first is the superintendent as long as the superintendent is acting also as the SSHO while the second is the CQC Manager. Alternates should be listed in the plan to identify who you will call up to keep work running. The requirement in the specs is that their qualifications are included in the plan for review, not that they are also on-site at all times.
This tends to be asked with every project we solicit and the answer is the same. In Spec section 01 35 26, 1.7, “SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER” (SSHO) AND “COMPETENT PERSON” (CP) A: The GC must provide 3 different persons on site. The Superintendent, SSHO, and Quality Control Manager.
Following Award and depending on the qualifications and demonstrated competency of GC site management, VA may be open to allowing the General Contractor Superintendent to act as the SSHO - conditional on retaining the right for the COR, CSO, or CO to summarily and immediately revoke the privilege as a result of observed performance deficiencies. While this is not guaranteed, in no case shall VA accept assignment of site management personnel to multiple projects concurrently. (52.236-6) B. Each subcontractor shall designate a 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.
In Spec Section 01 45 00, 3.5 QUALITY CONTROL ORGANIZATION B. ..."The CQC System Manager cannot have any other duties except for quality control management." - Therefore the CQCM cannot also be the SSHO or Superintendent. They are part of that organization, but separate roles.
| The following solicitation 36C25225B0009, Roadway and Sidewalk Improvements is not in scope for this project and has no bearing on this documentation. | 0005 | |
| | We’re reaching out to clarify a discrepancy we’ve observed between requirements for three recently released solicitations for projects at the Lovell Federal Health Care Center. Specifically, we’ve noticed inconsistencies in the expectations and standards applied across these projects for Quality Control. |
| | For both Solicitation 36C25225B002, Chilled Water from Bldg 188 to Bldg 3 and Solicitation 36C25225B0005, Renovate B134-2C CLC the following requirement was included in the issued Specification section 01 45 00 QUALITY CONTROL, Section 3.5, Item B, which states: CQC System Manager: Identify as CQC System Manager an individual that is responsible for overall management of CQC and has the authority to act in all CQC matters for the Contractor. The CQC System Manager is required to be a licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect. This CQC System Manager is employed by the General Contractor. Identify in the plan an Alternate CQC System Manager to serve in the event of the primary CQC System Manager’s absence. The requirements for the alternate are the same as the CQC System Manager. |
| | The requirement to keep two licensed engineers or registered architects employed for the project becomes not only cost prohibitive, especially for an SDVOSB company, but also a requirement that does not apply to a General Contractor. |
| | Alternatively, Solicitation 36C25225B0009, Roadway and Sidewalk Improvements issued Specification section 01 45 00 QUALITY CONTROL, Section 3.5, Item B, which states: |
| | CQC System Manager: The CQC System Manager is responsible for overall management of CQC, employed directly by the General Contractor, and has the authority to act in all CQC matters for the Contractor. The CQC System Manager cannot have any other duties except for quality control management. The CQC System Manager is required to have completed the Construction Quality Management (CQM) for Construction course. Note that this course is periodically offered by Naval Facilities Engineering Command and the Army Corps of Engineers. You may find more information online. Identify in the plan an Alternate CQC System Manager to serve in the event of the primary CQC System Manager’s absence. The requirements for the Alternate are the same as the CQC System Manager. |
| | The above requirement is more in line with industry standards, and standards previously set forth within the GLAC facilities, and Lovell FHCC specifically. |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/21/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 102 | CONTINUED | Given that the VA has already engaged a design and engineering firm with architects and engineers, and that the General Contractor is not performing design work, this requirement seems not applicable to what would be asked of a GC. We are asking the VA to consider allowing other qualifications—specifically that the QC for all (3) jobs be required to meet the CQC training requirement as described in Solicitation 36C25225B0009 thru a CQM completed course. If more reequipments are felt to be needed, then previous projects have require a degree in construction management or a relevant professional experience of 5 years. | | 0005 |
| | If maintaining the current requirement is necessary, would it be possible to modify it to better align with common industry practices? We want to ensure compliance while also allowing for qualified professionals with relevant expertise to fulfill this role effectively. | | |
| | We appreciate your guidance on this matter and look forward to your response. Please let us know if a discussion would be helpful. | | |
| NO. | RFI FROM | QUESTION OR COMMENT | VA RESPONSE 02/24/2025 | RESPONSE POSTED IN AMENDMENT NO. |
| 103 | | Who is the existing controls contractor? | Automated Logic Controls. | 0005 |
| 104 | | Please provide a location tie in for the med-gas. | The medical gas tie-in point is shown by Keynote 2 in detail F7 on sheet PG101. | 0005 |
| 105 | | Is it possible to schedule another site visit? | Solicitation Posted: 01/15/2025 | 0005 |
| | | Site visit was conducted on: 01/21/2025 @ 9:00 AM, of course you were under no obligation to attend this site-visit! | |
| | | A second site visit was held on: 01/28/2025 @ 9:00 AM, of course you were under no obligation to attend this site-visit! | |
| | | At this time there are no add additional site visit(s) scheduled or being considered for this solicitation. | |
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