36C25619R0073-0001001.docx

The following clarifications are provided. The responses below will supersede the previous clarifications issued with the solicitation should a conflict arise between the two.

1. Question: Regarding AD-100 Demolition General Note M, how is the contractor to know what loads must be carried by the additional shoring and in what locations? Please provide the shoring requirements or maximum live and point loads for each respective phase of construction so that the cost can be appropriately accounted for in the estimate. This is a high-risk item for general contractors and will have a severe cost impact on the project without detailed clarification of what shoring is required and in what locations.

Response – The addition structure is engineered to be supported by the existing structure. Shoring to accommodate construction loads are means and methods to be determined by the contractor. The AE does not know what equipment contractors are expected to use, methods of loading and storing material for the project, etc. Locations for shoring in the basement are not to interfere with the VA’s daily operations. Contractor shall coordinate the locations with the COR.

2. Question: What Access Control System is already in place, and what voltage does the current locking hardware use?

Response – Schneider Electric Continuum, 5-16VDC

3. Question: The plans and specs do not specify what type of door locking hardware will be used at which doors. The specs mention electric crash bars, mortise handsets with transfer hinge, and electric strike that mount in door frame. The print does not distinguish this.

Response – Specification 08 70 00 indicates hardware sets at the end of the section. Drawing Sheet AE-611 Door Schedule references door by door which hardware set is required for each door.

4. Question: Prints also do not show current location of head end. We will need locations of MDFs IDFs or any closets designated for security and communications.

Response – Security and Communications Panels/Closets are located in the Mechanical Rooms 1B-134A and 1B-236 serving each area.

5. Question: The print doesn’t specify the amount of cables that will be going to each data drop. There are 3 types of drops-Combination data/voice outlet, low voltage floor penetration, and medical telemetry outlet. I need to know exactly how many cables will be at each of these types of drops.

Response – A. Combination data/voice outlet: per Sheet TS-200 Detail C1 – VAMC COMBINATION CAT 6 DATA/VOICE OUTLET: (3) 24 AWG CAT 6 cables to each box. (1) CAT 6 is split for the 2 analog lines, (2) CAT 6 are for data.

B. Low Voltage Floor Penetration: These symbols are shown on the floor plan to indicate where the contractor may need to penetrate the interstitial floor to facilitate routing of LV cabling from the interstitial level to the level 1 ceiling plenum. Refer to TS-200 Detail A1 – LOW VOLTAGE CABLE PENETRATION – EZ PATH.

C. Medical Telemetry Outlet: Per keynotes on the floorplans: (1) cat 6 cable per station (bed).

6. Question: Sheet GI121 Construction Phasing General Notes, Item C., indicates that the VA COR to determine time period between phase completion and direction to proceed to next phase. To establish a baseline expectation, please provide the anticipated time between phases, so that we can appropriately evaluate the contract time and work schedule.

Response – Estimated to be 30-90 days.

7. Question: Please advise on whether we can disconnect and demo the existing fire sprinklers prior to the new system being brought online. Leaving the existing fire sprinklers in place typically creates an unforeseen obstruction in the above ceilings spaces. We have on previous VA projects been allowed to remove the old system as long as we have fire separation between the construction space and the occupied space and an active fire alarm system with heat detectors. Please advise.

Response – VA Interim Life Safety Measure team will need to make that determination based on case by case basis.

8. Question: Please advise on the required spacing that will be needed for the temporary fire alarm heat detectors throughout the space during construction.

Response – The fire alarm contractor is responsible for developing an interim fire protection program to protect all spaces. Provide quantities and locations of detectors as required for a code-compliant system.

9. Question: Please provide the current manufacturer and contractor for the following:

a. Physical Access Control System

b. Video Surveillance

c. Public Address System

d. Nurse Call

e. Telecommunications

f. Fire Alarm

g. Patient Lifts

Response –

a. Physical Access Control System Schneider Electric Continuum

b. Video Surveillance Schneider Electric, exact product not known

c. Public Address System Make and model not known

d. Nurse Call Rauland Responder 4

e. Telecommunications Exact make and model not known

f. Fire Alarm Notifier

g. Patient Lifts Guldmann

10. Question: Sheet AD 101 indicates in note 8 that the furniture, equipment, headwalls and accessories shall be stored in a controlled environment. We have the following questions regarding this requirement:

a. Please provide an itemized list of items with their dimensional size that we can anticipate removing from the space during construction.

b. Will we be required to reinstall the items?

c. Will a controlled environment be provided by the Government onsite? If so, how far can we expect to relocate the identified items to?

Response –

Please provide an itemized list of items with their dimensional size that we can anticipate removing from the space during construction. Items shall include, but not limited to: patient beds, cabinets, drawers, guest chairs, artwork.

a. Will we be required to reinstall the items? Items to be returned to each unit as determined by the COR.

b. Will a controlled environment be provided by the Government onsite? If so, how far can we expect to relocate the identified items to? No

11. Question: Architectural Plan General Notes on several sheets indicate to provide wall blocking as required for owner furnished patient lift system. Please provide locations and type of blocking that will be needed to support the patient lifts of the requirements. Also, please provide configuration of patient lifts.

Response – Contractor shall use the standard blocking requirements for Guldmann lifts. Final configuration and blocking locations will provided after contract award.

12. Question: Is video surveillance a part of this Contract’s scope? If so, please provide locations.

Response –CCTV Surveillance is to be designed and provided by the VA.

13. Question: Where can the temporary construction walls be installed for each phase?

Response – Typically 3 feet from boundary of each phase. VA Interim Life Safety Measure team will also make determinations on case by case basis.

14. Question: Will the adjacent corridors and areas (Corridor C1B-108, Corridor C1B-104, dayroom 1B-119, Corridor C1B-208, Corridor C1B-204, ETC.) to the phases be unoccupied during construction? If not, how much space will we be allowed to have to install the a temporary construction wall?

Response –The patient units are expected to remain operational throughout construction. The corridors listed are the corridors serving the patient rooms and the associated nurse stations and adjacent support areas. Rooms not in the scope of work for each phase are to remain accessible. The corridor adjacent to each construction phase is also a required exit path that must remain open and operational. Refer to RFI addressing temporary construction barriers.

15. Question: It was mentioned during the walk through that shoring would be required under the addition area during construction. Please provide the locations that will require shoring, how tall the space is below the slab to be shored and what capacity of support we should assume.

Response – See response to RFI #01.

16. Question: There are several notes that indicate to remove, salvage and reinstall the existing patient service wall units. Please provide cut sheets or manufacturers information that would allow us to assess the validity of being able to salvage the units vs. buying new.

Response – The existing headwall manufacture is not known; therefore, this information is unavailable.

17. Question: On the demolition drawings, note 20 indicates new floor depression to receive floor tile and mud bed sloped to shower drain; however, the extent of how much of the topping slab that needs to be removed is not indicated. Please provide the depth of the topping slab we should remove and the limits of the demolition of the topping slab.

Response – The existing topping slab is non-structural. The amount of topping slab removed is dependent upon the needs to properly execute the work.

18. Question: Will work be allowed to be completed during normal working hours?

Response – Typically yes, but certain types of work (i.e. generates excessive noise/vibration, utility shutdowns) will need to be scheduled with COR to minimize disruption to hospital operations.

19. Question: There is a specification for section 28 26 00 Electronic Personal Protection System but nothing shown on the plans. Please advise on the scope of this work.

Response - This spec section does not apply.

20. Question: There is a specification 13 05 41 for seismic restraints for non-structural components. The design does not provide enough information to perform this work, as it is the A/E’s responsibility to identify the components to be braced per the VA guidelines. Please advise.

Response – This section does not apply.

21. Question: Please advise on whether the VA Tririga CPMS is required to be utilized as per Specification 01 00 00, article 1.26.

Response – No.

22. Question: Structural steel note 19 on sheet S-001 states the contractor is to provide an additional 1.2 tons of steel to be furnished, fabricated, detailed and erected during the procession of work, in addition to the steel shown on the drawings. Is this required? If it is required, please provide plans, details and locations of this additional steel.

Response – The additional steel indicated is to cover unforeseen conditions and requirements encountered on site, miscellaneous steel conditions not shown on the drawings and other conditions as may be required for acceptable shop drawings and fabrication at no additional cost to the VA.

23. Question: What are the live and point load limitations on the slab for Phase 1A?

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

24. Question: What are the live and point load limitations on the slab for Phase 1B?

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

25. Question: What are the live and point load limitations on the slab for Phase 2?

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

26. Question: What are the live and point load limitations on the slab for Phase 3?

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

27. Question: What are the live and point load limitations on the slab for Phase 4?

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

28. Question: AD-100 Demolition General Note X says to replace aluminum sill, jamb and curtain track extensions if damaged. This note is not called out in any specific area. Please provide specific locations and quantities that are damaged and are expected to be replaced.

Response – The reference to the curtain track is the window head aluminum extension that the existing curtains are mounted to. The comment applies to the aluminum window extension extrusions for the head, sill and jamb elements. The intent of the comment is that if these are damaged due to construction activities, incorrectly modified to accommodate new construction or are full of previous holes which will remain visible at construction completion (example – not covered by new shade assembly), then the extension piece needs to be replaced in its entirety. Splicing pieces together to cut out a flaw or damaged section is not acceptable. The note applies to the window extensions only and not the cubicle curtain track.

29. Question: Please confirm that the Commissioning Agent to be appointed by the VA under a separate contract.

Response – Confirmed.

30. Question: Can the Superintendent also fulfill the roles of SSHO and CSHT if they meet the requirements of each?

Response – Yes.

31. Question: Please provide an inventory of furniture and equipment that is required to be removed, stored and reinstalled per note U/AD100.

Response – Items shall include, but not limited to: patient beds, cabinets, drawers, guest chairs, artwork.

32. Question: Keynotes 10 and 11 are listed in the key notes on sheet AD-101, AD-103, but not called out on the page. Please provide callouts for the locations of the handrails and crash guard that to be removed and stored for relocation.

Response – The intent of the comment is for existing handrails and crash rails being removed as a necessary part of completing the work, be retained by the contractor for use as a parts source for installation where existing handrails and crash rails are to be extended, terminated, etc. At the end of the project excess material is to be made available to the VA for use, and disposed of by the contractor if the VA does not want to take possession.

33. Question: Note 20/AD-102 says that we are to protect existing pavers that are to remain. Please confirm if the pavers are to remain in place, or removed and reinstalled.

Response – The intent of the comment is to protect the waterproof membrane below as much as possible throughout construction and deliverable as part of the project. Occupied space exists below and it is critical that rain be contained and drained without damaging spaces below. The contractor may choose a different means of complying with the requirement. If enough undamaged existing pavers are not salvaged for reinstallation in the reduced size courtyard, new matching pavers will be required. See response to RFI #38 for additional information for whether pavers are eventually removed and reinstalled.

34. Question: Note 8/AD-103 says to store furniture and equipment in a controlled environment, is it acceptable to store items in a connex on the VA site, or will the VA require these items to be stored in climate-controlled storage?

Response – Climate-controlled storage.

35. Question: Note 21/AD-111 says to remove, store and reinstall ceiling hung retractable tables, however no details or locations are shown. Please provide a description of the tables and also plan locations.

Response – The circles shown on AD111 in the dayroom are the ceiling hung tables. The particular note in question references the table that conflicts with the installation of the temporary construction barrier. If the barrier does not conflict with and excludes the space occupied by the existing table, the table may remain in place and the note deleted. If the table conflicts, the contractor is to remove the table, retain it undamaged and reinstall it when the temporary construction partition is removed. See also Note 16 which references a table that is permanently in conflict with the scheduled work.

36. Question: Keynote 10/AD-112 and finish schedule remark #4/AE-621 says that we are to provide temporary finishes where necessary between phases to allow continued operations. Please specify what level of finishes are required for continued operations. Is bare concrete floor acceptable, is ceiling grid required? Are washable walls required?

Response – The continued operation requirements is that of a proper operational hospital. The comment is recognition that there are locations where the periods between phases require finishes for proper operations and cleanliness and the need not to unnecessarily expend limited resource dollars on temporary work. Temporary finishes between phases includes properly finished washable painted walls, matching wall base, matching VCT floor tile and extension of new or existing ceiling systems as may be appropriate. Temporary finishes include installation of salvaged handrails and crash rails on walls.

37. Question: The courtyard pavers that are called to be re-used in the new courtyard patio area do not appear to be reusable, they appear to mortar set pavers. Some also appear to have sealant in between the pavers where they meet concrete. Please provide specifications for concrete pavers to be used in the event that the existing pavers are not suitable for re-use.

Response – Replacement pavers if needed should match existing pavers to remain consistent with other hospital courtyards.

38. Question: In the event that the pavers are reusable, are there sufficient quantity of full-size pavers (not cut) to provide coverage in the pattern shown on sheet AE-502?

Response –There is not a paver layout for the remaining courtyard area. The intent is for a paver pattern of similar design to existing courtyard patterns be developed after the quantity of various usable existing pavers is known. See attached partial sheets 100-307, 100-308, 100-309 scanned from original building construction set. Information on these sheets has not been verified by the AE. The attached information has not been verified nor has an inventory of paver sizes been conducted. Note on the attached existing information drawings, field pavers are set in mortar, perimeter pavers are over a subsurface drainage system and the existing basketball court is concrete infill with no pavers.

39. Question: If there are not sufficient quantity of pavers to be reused, will the contractor be allowed to fill in the remaining areas with new pavers that match as close as possible. The existing pavers are weathered and will not match new pavers.

Response – Yes. New paver and paver finish to be approved by VA-COR.

40. Question: The plan view on sheet AE-102 shows the existing reinstalled pavers as a combination of 36” and 18” units. Please verify if this is correct.

Response – See response to Question #38

41. Question: Will corridor C1B-108 be allowed to be closed off during construction of phase 1?

Response – See response to Question #14.

42. Question: Are the existing patient lifts wall mounted or ceiling mounted?

Response – The existing patient lifts are Wall mounted with ceiling track.

43. Question: Please confirm that the past performance experience requirements of the solicitation must be met by the prime contractor.

Response – see attached revised instruction to offerors.

44. Question: Please provide spec requirements for “flood testing” noted on sheet AE301 note 30.

Response – The intent is to verify the waterproofing of remaining courtyard area has been protected/repaired where existing and properly supplemented with compatible new waterproofing at areas affected by construction work. Flood courtyard area within 1 hour of the start of a work day and drain it within the last hour. Floor test to be continuous without interruption or reflooding of the area. Inspect for drop in water level and for leakage below immediately before draining. Do not leave drains plugged overnight or when the general contractor is not present on site. Generally this requirement is no different than flood testing shower areas and is to the benefit of the owner as well as the contractor.

45. Question: As multiple rounds of RFI's have/will be issued on this project, please describe the order of precedence of the RFI's in the event of contradicting responses.

Response – This set of clarifications will take precedent over last year’s clarifications should a conflict arise.

46. Question: Please confirm that once removed, the VA will take possession of the existing patient lifts.

Response – Yes.

47. Question: Please confirm that the contractor will not be responsible for transportation or storage of the existing patient lifts.

Response – Confirmed. Per Demolition General Note C. Remove and Salvage Patient Lift Systems. Return to VA-COR.

48. Question: What is the overall height of the upswing bar support steel bracket shown on sheet AE-561 details C8 and A6?

Response – The detail indicates a height above finished floor in the lowered position. The height in the raised position does not matter.

49. Question: Please provide graphic details and dimensions of the required signage types.

Response – The IN-12X drawing series indicates where room signage is to be provided. Signage design and text methodology to match existing elsewhere in the hospital and be approved by the VA COR. Text information to be by the VA after contract award.

50. Question: Please provide details of the wall backing required for the wall mounted patient light called out per note 3/AE-222.

Response – The wall packing for the wall mounted light at the head of the patient bed is to provide a solid ground for screws / anchors. The flip top nature of the scheduled fixture requires solid grounds to avoid the fixture coming off the wall onto a patient. Drywall expansion, insert, molly, winged or drywall type screws are not acceptable. Solid backing can be any type allowed by the construction type. Detail D3, Sheet AE-562 is an acceptable backing.

51. Question: Note 18/AE-301 is called out for the metal deck of the new roof. Please confirm if spray-on fireproofing is required for the underside of the new metal roof deck.

Response – The fire protection rating of the roof is shown on GI-011 (1-1/2 hour) as required for NFPA Construction Type III. See also Drawing Sheet GI-034 for rated UL assembly. Contractor may propose other UL assemblies of the roof fire protection assembly. The ceiling may NOT be included in the rated assembly.

52. Question: Please confirm the planter that is removed will not contain fill and will remain an empty void as shown on details F7/AE-311 and F7/AE-312.

Response – All built in planters are to be emptied of dirt, plants, drains, membrane, etc., prior to framing over per the structural drawings and related scheduled work. Removal of the membrane is expected to leave work free of traces of dirt. Dirt and plant material are not to remain since areas become internal void spaces as part of this project and an environment to harbor and grow mold is to be avoided.

53. Question: Please confirm that the double layer of gypsum board called out per 15/AE-401 is only required in the patient rooms and not in the restrooms.

Response – The partitions between patient rooms are to be constructed as scheduled including the double layer of gypsum board in toilet rooms. Partitions extend from exterior wall to interior corridor wall. The intent of Note #15 is for the double layer to be continuous at the intersecting toilet plumbing wall to avoid the chase breaking the continuity of the patient room separation wall and allowing plumbing chase flush valve noise from migrating into the adjacent room. Note also the schedule partitions at the back of the plumbing chase is a regular double-sided partition extending to the deck above to provide a sound barrier between the patient room and associated chase containing the chair carrier & flush valve noise. There are not exceptions to these requirements.

54. Question: Please provide room interior elevations for storage room 1B-147 that show the crash rail and wall guard required per 3/AE-401. Please also provide a plan view showing wall protection for this room.

Response – The plan view of walls requiring protection is shown on IN-111. Per the room Finish Schedule, the rigid wall guard material is to be installed from 48”x96” material. A 48” high rigid wall guard is acceptable. Per note 3/AE-401, the upper and lower crash guard is to be installed similar to C5/AE564 where the upper crash guard is installed at an elevation typical of handrails.

55. Question: Note 4/AE-415 references a stud channel header detail B6/AE532, however page 532 is not included in the plan set. Please provide this plan page.

Response – The correct sheet number reference is AE562.

56. Question: Please provide the dimensions of the windows that will require window shades so that we are able to appropriately price the shades.

Response – Contractor is responsible to field verify the windows’ measurements.

57. Question: Please provide specific details of what services and receptacles, controls, accessories, accessory rails etc. are required to be installed/included with the new headwalls.

Response –The intent is to generally match services, etc., of existing units to be as universal from room to room as possible, taking into account the response to RFI #58.

58. Question: Please confirm that the contractor is not required to provide any new service outlets, receptacles, controls, accessories, accessory mounting rails or receptacles for the existing relocated headwalls.

Response – This is incorrect. Each existing headwall has some modifications required as shown on the plans:

A. Per MED GAS ZONE EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE on sheet Pl-001: each existing head wall “MGO-1” has 1-VAC outlet, and 1-SLIDE that will be added.

B. Per POWER KEYED NOTE 07 on sheets ES-201 & 203: The existing green grounding outlets are to be removed and replaced with stainless steel blank off plates.

C. Per LIGHTING KEYED NOTE 01 on sheets ES-101 & 103: The existing (2) light switches in each headwall are to be removed and replaced with (1) Low voltage 3-way switch, and (1) blank wall plate.

D. Per RAULAND-BORG NURSE CALL NOTES on sheet T-000: Each headwall has the existing Rauland 4 responder nurse call patient station and code blue device reconnected to with new cable. Inspect and test each device.

E. Each existing headwall has a communications outlet with a 4-port data plate that is to be reconnected to with new cable.

59. Question: What are the dimensions of the existing headwalls?

Response – Refer to response to RFI # 60.

60. Question: Equipment plan keynote 1 on sheet AE151 requires the contractor to purchase and install 10 new headwall systems that match the existing type. There were no manufacturer name plates visible on the existing headwall units at the prebid site visit. Please provide manufacturer and model types of existing headwalls.

Response –The existing headwall manufacture is not known. Contractor shall match as close as possible in size, accessories, rails, services, etc.

61. Question: The scale on many of the mechanical details is noted as ¼” per foot, which appears to be correct when checking against duct dimensions, the graphical scale shown however does not match the stated scale. Please confirm that we are to use the stated scale dimensions.

Response – A. The mechanical details on sheets MH-501, 502, & 503 are all marked “NOT TO SCALE”.

B. MECHANICAL GENERAL NOTES, Note 8/Sheet M-000 states “DRAWINGS ARE SCHEMATIC IN NATURE AND SHALL NOT BE SCALED” C. The graphical scale bar under the sheet plan title on the enlarged ¼” scale plans appears to be incorrect. However, the stated scale referenced on the floor plans (1/8” = 1’-0”), and the Enlarged floor plans (1/4” – 1’-0”) appears to be correct. Contractor should always use the stated dimensions for duct and pipe sizes.

62. Question: General note 2 on sheet AS-202 says that only Simplex receptacles may be used in patient care areas, please confirm that equivalent hospital grade receptacles may be used.

Response – Assuming this refers to General note 7 on sheet ES-202, this question is a misinterpretation of the note. The note states: ALL RECEPTACLES IN PATIENT CARE AREAS SHALL BE HOSPITAL GRADE. ONLY SIMPLEX GROUNDING, OR DUPLEX GROUNDING DEVICES SHALL BE INSTALLED UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE.

63. Question: Patient restroom access sequence note 1 on sheet TS-000 says that the Responder devices are to be removed and reinstalled, with new added at new headwall. Please confirm that we are to reuse the devices in the existing relocated headwalls and only provide new devices in new headwalls.

Response – Its note 1 of the “RAULAND-BORG NURSE CALL NOTES”. Yes. This interpretation is correct. NOTE: the rest of that note requires the contractor to : INSPECT/TEST ALL REMOVED DEVICES AND REPLACE AS NEEDED. The “replace as needed devices” will be an added cost to the project as it is uncertain how many of the existing devices will need to be replaced.

64. Question: During the site visit, the VA stated that proposals are due August 15, 2019. However, the SF1442 states in box 13a that proposals are due August 20, 2019. Please confirm that proposal are due August 20, 2019.

Response – the revised due date is listed on the SF30 amendment document.

65. Question: The SF 1442 asks for a 90-calendar day review/validity period. However, it appears the NTP won’t be issued until January 6th, 2020. Does the VA intend on awarding this project before end of year, and waiting until January 2020, or does the VA intend to award after end of government fiscal year?

Response - The VA intends to award this contract prior to September 30, 2019. NTP is expected to be issued in January 2020.

66. Question: RFIs submitted during the last bid (2018) indicated that there was a 30 to 90-day wait period between phases. Even though this duration is 730 calendar days, have to wait one to three months between phases adds significant cost to the project. Would the VA be able to reduce that timeline to 2 weeks?

Response – Activating a new inpatient area is a complex task, which is why 30 to 90 days was stated. VA will minimize the wait period as best as it can without jeopardizing patient care. We expect the timeframe to be reduced as the construction progress to the later phases.

67. Question: Can Phase 1A and 1B be performed concurrently? It appears access for Phase 1B is through Phase 1A, so we are assuming Phases 1A and 1B will be concurrent.

Response – The VA’s intent is for Phase 1A to begin first and then 1B will be scheduled to begin at a later date so both phase 1A and 1B will be completed at the same time.

68. Question: Please clarify and/or confirm that Deduct 1G is only for patient rooms located within the renovated Phase 1A space, or is Deduct 1G for all patient rooms, including Phases 2, 3, and 4?

Response – Deduct 1G applies to all patient headwalls in all project phases. Reference to headwalls on AE-221 is to the preferred base bid headwall for all patient rooms. The 1G deduct references drawing AE-222 which is a presumed less expensive patient room headwall for all patient rooms. The VA’s preference is to construct all phases of the project if at all possible and would rather a more basic headwall be installed than giving up a project phase should the base bid be outside the allowable award amount.

69. Question: Deduct 2A states to remove Phase 4 from scope, with the exception of HVAC and ceiling. After new HVAC and ceiling are provided, Offerors are to reinstall existing curtain track, light fixtures and other existing ceiling mounted fixtures and accessories. Does this include the existing patient lift system, which is VA provided and installed for all newly renovated areas? Or, is the VA intending to remove and reinstall these lift systems throughout Phase 4 if Deduct 2A is awarded?

Response – Installation of the patient lifts by others. Contractor to remove existing patient lift system as necessary to install new HVAC and ceiling.

70. Question: Deduct 2B states to provide and install a 2-hour fire partition as shown. This wall is to be provided whether base or any deducts are awarded. The location varies with deduct. Are we to assume that if 2A is awarded, 2B will also be awarded, and the fire partition will not be provided throughout Phase 4? Please clarify Deduct 2B.

Response – The location of the 2 hour fire partition varies based on whether executed as part of the base bid or Deduct 2B. Due to the need for the HVAC portion of the work to be required with the deduct (wall locations remain), the wall in question can be upgraded to a 2 hour fire partition at the same time as the required HVAC work for the area.

71. Question: Deduct 3A states to remove Phase 3 from scope, with the exception of HVAC and ceiling. After new HVAC and ceiling are provided, reinstall existing curtain track, light fixtures and other existing ceiling mounted fixtures and accessories. Does this include the existing patient lift system, which is VA provided and installed for all newly renovated areas? Or, is the VA intending to remove and reinstall these lift systems throughout Phase 3 if Deduct 3A is awarded?

Response – See response to RFI # 69.

72. Question: The solicitation included RFIs from the previous bid in 2018. The VA confirmed in one question that warranties commence with the turn over of each phase. We are asking that the VA confirm this. Also, how will the VA address warranties of systems that service more than one phase?

Response – The warranty will be based upon substantial completion of each phase.

73. Question: Will Room 1B-119, Day Room, be occupied during Phase 1 (1A and 1B) renovation/expansion?

Response – Yes.

74. Question: Since pictures were not allowed within the existing SPI area, can the VA provide pictures of the east and west ends of 1B-119, Day Room? Specifically, the areas where the Internet Café is and the area where the temporary construction access/entrance between Phase 1A and 1B.

Response – Refer to attached photos of various angles of the Dayroom and Internet Café.

75. Question: Will the following rooms be occupied during Phase 1A and 1B renovation/expansion (1B-149, 1B-147A, 1B-147, 1B-145, C1B-106, 1B-131, 1B-129, 1B-129, 1B-127, and 1B-125)?

Response – Yes.

76. Question: Will the access door out of corridor C1B-111 remain operational and occupied during renovation/expansion? If so, during all phases or just Phase 1A and 1B?

Response - Yes, for all phases.

77. Question: Will rooms 1B-160, 1B-162, 1B-158, 1B-156, 1B-154, 1B-151, and Corridor 1B-109 be operational and occupied during renovation/expansion of Phase 1A and 1B?

Response – Yes.

78. Question: Access for Phase 1A and 1B appears to be through the exterior wall of 1B-150C, 1B-150 and 1B-150B. However, once Phase 1A and 1B are complete, how does the VA intend to provide access for Phases 2, 3 and 4?

Response – Access can be made either through exterior wall or through interior hallways provided contractor follows Infection Control Risk Assessment requirements.

79. Question: Drawing AD-101 has Note F1, Demolition Plan First Floor Area 1B. But, it includes what appears to be Phase 1A and Phase 4. Are offerors to assume Phase 1A and Phase 4 are to be demolished concurrently? If not, where is the line of demarcation between Phase 1A and Phase 4? This is important to note if Phase 4 is deducted from the contract. The phasing drawings appear to show Phase 1A is everything west of Corridor C1B-107, which would mean the flooring/base to be removed, along with the walls, in this corridor are part of phase 4. Please clarify this drawing and correct as necessary.

Response – The referenced drawing does not identify work appropriate to each phase. Doing so would result in 4 independent sets of drawings. Refer to drawings GI-121 through GI-125 for approximate boundaries between each phase.

80. Question: Drawing AD-101 has Note #1, Not in Contract, in the middle of what we believe to be Phase 1A (just northwest of grid line Q/12. Is this note incorrect, because the new floor plan appears to show a new wall going in this area? So, is this wall and/or area included in the contract or not? This wall has hatched lines, indicating it is to be removed, but the note contradicts apparent direction.

Response – The note tag referenced should be tag #7 not tag #1.

81. Question: Similarly, there is another Note #1, Not in Contract, on Drawing AD-101 just north of grid line Q5 between 11 and 10, in corridor C1B-107. Is this area not in contract and/or is this wall not to be removed? This wall has hatched lines, indicating it is to be removed, but the new floor plan appears to have the wall and door remain. Please clarify.

Response – The note tag referenced should be tag #7 not tag #1.

82. Question: Please confirm that Corridor C1B-108 does not have to maintain thru traffic, and can be closed off during the temporary access between Phase 1A and Phase 1B.

Response – Yes, subject to determination by the VA Interim Life Safety Measure team.

83. Question: Drawing AD-102 states under Note #12, to remove existing planters and to coordinate with the VA for new location. Where exact are these planters going to be relocated? Because of the size and weight, please confirm that the VA is not intending to have the dirt and plants relocated as well. Also, in lieu of relocating the empty planters, would the VA accept new planters? It may be more economical to provide new planters instead of relocating the existing.

Response - Planters may be relocated to either remaining area of Atrium or other Atriums in hospital. VA will remove any plants/soil for use elsewhere in the facility. Remaining plants/soil can be disposed. VA will consider new planters in lieu of existing subject to COR review and approval at no additional cost to the VA.

84. Question: Please confirm that the soil and plantings within the large, triangular planters do not have to be salvaged and relocated.

Response – The large triangular planters are not being relocated. The planters are to be demolished as shown on the drawings including removal of dirt, plants, liner material and other items shown on the drawings. See associated RFI # 52 response. VA will remove any plants/soil for use elsewhere in the facility. Remaining plants/soil shall be disposed by the contractor.

85. Question: Please confirm that the existing gazebo do not have to be salvaged and relocated.

Response – Confirmed.

86. Question: Note #8 on AD101 and AD102 states to, “Remove and salvage all existing furniture, equipment and accessories. Store all items in a controlled environmental identified by the VA-COR. Coordinate with the VA COR prior to removal.” 1) Are Offerors to relocate these items back after construction/renovation? 2) Is this “controlled environment available at the VA? 3) If not, and the Contractor will be responsible for securing a location offsite, does it need to be bonded, insured, etc.? 4) Will the VA perform an inventory or will the Contractor be responsible?

Response – 1) Yes 2) No 3) Yes 4) Contractor.

87. Question: Note #29 on AD-102 states that existing drains at existing trench drain to remain operational. During the site visit, it appeared areas within this courtyard had ponding water. Will the VA confirm that these existing drains, which are to remain operations, are currently operational?

Response - Yes, they are operational. The drains in question only are the ones serving the reduced courtyard area remaining due to the construction of the addition. All others located within the limits of the addition are to be abandoned, disconnected, piping removed to the nearest active branch and capped. Penetration through the floor system to be infilled with concrete and dowels drilled into the concrete to hold the infill in place.

88. Question: Note #10 on AD-102 states to remove existing grab bars and crash guards along the extent of partition to be removed. Store for relocation. Where are Offerors to relocate these items? Are Offerors to reinstall, or simply relocate for VA to reinstall?

Response – Refer to response to RFI # 32. Contractor is required to store until area is ready to be reinstalled by the contractor.

89. Question: In review of AD-103, please identify the line of demarcation between Phase 2 and 3. This is important to know incase Phase 3 is deducted from the scope of work.

Response – Refer to response to RFI # 79.

90. Question: Regarding the medical gas scope, is the current system, and new system going in, zoned in a manner to allow the new work to be recertified without going beyond the phase? Or, will areas outside of the phased areas require their med gas lines to be recertified?

Response – The current system is zoned to serve all patient rooms in the Nursing Unit. New In-Line Lockable Med Gas Shutoff Valves will be installed under this project to enable isolation of Patient Wing for Phasing. Areas outside of the phased area will need to be recertified as required.

91. Question: What is the intended access route for Phase 2 and 3?

Response – Access can be made either through exterior wall or through interior hallways provided contractor follows Infection Control Risk Assessment requirements.

92. Question: Drawing AD-111 legend show gypboard ceilings to remain, but in every area that shows gypboard ceilings, there is a Note #4, which states, “remove gypboard ceiling and fixtures.” Please clarify this scope and revise drawing as necessary.

Response – The Drawing Material Legend should indicate the material is gypsum board and not identify whether it remains or is removed. Refer to the referenced plan note for the required action.

93. Question: Please confirm that patient lift systems are Owner-Furnished Owner-Installed. And, any reference to removing, relocating and reinstalling existing patient lifts is OFOI.

Response – Per Demolition General Note C. Remove and Salvage Patient Lift Systems. Return to VA-COR. Installation of the patient lifts by others.

94. Question: Retain and catalog all lift parts and components including lift, traveling beams, fixed beams and support columns.” However, on numerous drawings, including but not limited to AE-211, it calls out the lift system as OFOI; that is defined as Owned Furnished Owner Installed. Please confirm that all work associated with new and existing patient lift systems is OFOI.

Response – Per Demolition General Note C. Remove and Salvage Patient Lift Systems. Return to VA-COR. Installation of the patient lifts by others.

95. Question: Drawing AE-631, Item 54 is not identified as OFOI, OFCI, CFCI. Please clarify.

Response – OFCI like all other Glove Box Holders scheduled.

96. Question: Will temporary utilities (water, electric, etc.) be provided to contractors for use on this project? If so, will there be a charge? Please provide rates if there is a charge.

Response – Yes, VA will provide temporary utilities at no charge to the Contractor.

97. Question: Section 01 00 00, page 26, paragraph 1.26 references VA TRIRIGA CPMS and instructs Offerors to obtain access through https://valicensing.oncfi.com. However, this website does not appear to be working. Can the VA expand on why this is required for this project, what is the function and how will it be used on this project, and how Offeror’s can obtain pricing information for this project?

Response – TRIRIGA will not be used on this project.

98. Question: Please confirm that this timeframe is correct and will be used as the contract timeline for RFIs and submittals.

Response – The VA to respond.

99. Question: Is there any hazardous material on this project? If so, will the VA be responsible for abating any and all hazardous material, such as asbestos?

Response – There are no known hazardous material on this project.

100. Question: If available, please provide any hazardous material report for the areas being renovated and expanded.

Response - There is no asbestos in this building. No other hazardous materials are known on this project.

101. Question: Unless we’ve overlooked it, can the VA please provide the Infection Control Risk Assessment, including the Class, so Offerors can price the correct Class and requirements for Infection Control measures. If we’ve overlooked it, please direct us in the specs and/or drawings as to where this information is.

Response - Class IV.

102. Question: Specification section 05 40 00 references Structural Steel Framing, Section 05 12 00. However, there is no Section 05 12 00, Structural Steel Framing. Please provide this specification applicable to this project.

Response – Structural specifications are on drawing sheet S-001.

103. Question: Section 07 84 00, paragraph 1.5(c) states that firestopping has to be inspected by a qualified inspector who will also, in addition to onsite inspections, provide a final report. In an effort to minimize cost, will the VA consider removing this requirement?

Response – Yes.

104. Question: Section 07 84 00, paragraph 1.5(b) states that firestopping has to be installed by a qualified installer, who is certified by FM Global as a “Qualified Firestop Contractor Program Requirements.” This certification adds significant cost to a scope that could easily, and with a high level of quality, be performed by trades making the penetration. In an effort to minimize cost on this project, would the VA consider removing this requirement?

Response – Yes.

105. Question: If there is a discrepancy between the specifications, scope of work and drawings, what is the order of precedence? We understand that all discrepancies should be brought up to the VA prior to bid time, but not all issues can be identified within the time period between when the solicitation was released and the RFI deadline. For that reason, if additional discrepancies are discovered, which document should Offeror follow?

Response – In the case of conflicts between drawings and specifications, the specifications shall govern.

106. Question: Houston, Texas, appears to be located within Seismic Zone 0, which is the lowest level, indicating very minimal or no seismic activity. What is the purpose of Section 13 05 41, Seismic Restraint Requirements for Non-Structural Components?

Response – This spec section does not apply to this project.

107. Question: Please provide the Building 100 as-builts so we can review and design temporary shoring for the courtyard extension/erection. Without knowing the existing structure, we can not determine appropriate shoring methods.

Response – See attached VA-H Original Design Loads Drawing

108. Question: In an effort to minimize cost, will the VA allow the TAB Contractor to be under the Mechanical Subcontractor? This will also coordinate efforts and streamline the process.

Response – No. The TAB Contractor shall be independent of the contractor performing the mechanical work.

109. Question: Section 23 09 23, page 4, paragraph F(1), states that the General Contractor shall directly hire the Control System Integrator in a contract separate from the contract procuring the controls contractor. Why is a Controls System Integrator required on this project? And, if it is required, in an effort to minimize cost, would the VA allow the mechanical subcontractor to provide this position?

Response – Not required.

110. Question: Is there a proprietary controls contractor onsite that Offerors are to utilize for DDC controls?

Response – No, but DDC controls need to be compatible with existing system.

111. Question: Is there a proprietary contractor onsite that Offerors are to utilize for fire protection or fire alarm?

Response – No, fire protection and fire alarm systems need to be compatible with existing systems.

112. Question: Is there a proprietary contractor onsite that Offerors are to utilize for access control and/or security system equipment and/or programing?

Response – No, but access control and/or security system equipment and/or programing need to be compatible with existing systems.

113. Question: Is there a proprietary contractor onsite that Offerors are to utilize for nurse call/code blue phones equipment and/or programing?

Response – No, but nurse call/code blue phones equipment and/or programing need to be compatible with existing systems.

114. Question: During the site visit, it was mentioned that the temp HVAC was to be placed on the west side of Area 1B’s mechanical room. However, all the drawings indicate the temp HVAC unit being placed on the east side of Area 1B’s mechanical room. Please clarify where the temp service is going.

Response – The temp HVAC unit is to be installed on the East side of the Area 1B mechanical room as shown on the drawings.

115. Question: Please confirm that temp HVAC is the only temporary utility/service required to be provided by the Contractor. All other utilities/service that will be needed for construction and/or hospital operations will be provided by the VA

Response – Confirmed.

116. Question: Activity Code TLTS1 (HDW Group 1N) The operators are on bathroom doors and are typically used as low-energy ADA operators and do not require any safety or reactivation sensors for their safe operation, but seeing that the bathrooms have a lift in each of them, I am not sure that this will be the case. They may need a reactivation sensor on them to ensure that they do not close on the patient. What are the specification requirements for these doors?

Response – Refer to Section 08 71 13 for power door operators. Safety sensors required. Preference is for door to open with the push of a button and closed with the push of a button.

117. Question: Activity Code TLTS1 (HDW Group 1N) What is the specified ADA push button actuator for the restrooms? (Size, Color, Shape, LED lit, Electrified, manual etc.)

Response – See response to RFI # 116. Button does not require a key to operate. Color to be from manufacture standard selections. Size and shape to be low profile, easily operable with a closed fist, round and standard 2” or 3” (+/-) diameter. Selection during submittal phase.

118. Question: Activity Code TLTS1 (HDW Group 1N) What is the finish/color of the operators required to be?

Response – Selected from manufacture’s standard available finishes during submittal phase.

119. Question: Activity Code NSTA1 (Door Number 1B-417) The Low Energy ICU Slide door requires glass. What kind of glass, thickness and color does it need to be?

Response – 1 / 4” tempered, clear glass.

120. Question: Activity Code NSTA1 ( Door Number 1B-417) What is the finish required on the aluminum for the Low Energy ICU slide door?

Response – Selected from manufacture’s standard available finishes during submittal phase.

121. Question: What is the process for sending/receiving submittals and RFIs after contract award?

Response - The AE firm will provide access to Submittal Exchange SharePoint to both the VA and the GC for this project.