MATOC and Seed Project Questions and Answers.pdf

*The first set of questions 1 through 53 are re-entered here from Amendment 0005. Some questions are updated and highlighted to show that the question and answer is updated.

Please note that questions determined to be repeat questions are answered only once. Further, questions may have been rewritten to allow for pointed answers within the solicitation.

1.Q. Will the Government change project size minimum requirement of $2M down to $1M?

1.A. No. Projects of at least $2M in size remains unchanged. Inflation was considered in arriving at the $2M minimum specified.

2.Q. Will the Government consider changing recent experience from three (3) years to five (5) or ten

(10) years?

2.A. No. Three years from date of solicitation issuance is determined to be the recent project experience required.

3.Q. Is FAR provision 52.222-33 Notice of Requirement for Project Labor Agreements required?

3.A. The FAR provision 52.222-33 is required to be inserted when FAR clause 52.222-34, Project Labor Agreement is inserted into solicitation. The prescription at FAR 22.505(b)(1) applies for insertion of FAR Clause 52.222-34. After further review, FAR Provision 52.222-33 and FAR Clause 52.222-34 is hereby removed from the solicitation in its entirety.

4.Q. Can CPARS be submitted in lieu of the Attachment 2 PPQ’s?

4.A. No. The contractor is to provide a complete response to all factors, including Factor 2, Past Performance, which includes the ATTACHMENT 2 PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE. An updated ATTACHMENT 2 PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE is uploaded as part of this request for information (RFI) amendment. The attachment is updated with a single point of contact for email submission. A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) FAR 2.1 Sub-Factor 1 is updated by adding “Finally, “ATTACHMENT 2 PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE” shall be provided for each of the three (3) projects submitted for evaluation.”

5.Q. What is required to obtain a badge?

5.A. As badge requirements change, badge requirements will be specified to the awardee of the initial task order, and to the specific awardee of all subsequent task orders.

6.Q. How long does it take to obtain the badge?

6.A. As badge requirements change, badge requirements will be specified to the awardee of the initial task order, and to the specific awardee of all subsequent task orders. Six weeks is an estimated time frame.

7.Q. Can offerors specify their intentions to be considered for award into the MATOC but NOT for award of the Seed Project?

7.A. Not responding to Factor 3 (providing Volume III), will render an offeror’s proposal non-responsive and therefore an offeror ineligible for further evaluation. If an offeror wants to be considered for award for the Central Texas MATOC, they must submit a complete proposal as detailed in the solicitation.

8.Q. If one/multiple examples have an existing PPQ, can that be sent instead of the one provided in this solicitation?

8.A. No. The Government will rely on independent PPQ submittal receipt, to ensure validity of a

PPQ.

9.Q. What is meant by “internal/external” for work on a healthcare installation?

9.A. In this context internal means ‘inside’ of a healthcare facility, and external means ‘outside’ of a health care facility. One example of an internal project would be renovating a patient healthcare floor.

One example of an external project would be replacing boilers within a healthcare facility ‘campus’.

10.Q. Who is the POC for ATTACHMENT 2 PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE email submittal?

10.A. Jennifer.parker6@va.gov is the email point of contact. A corrected ATTACHMENT 2 PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE is provided.

11.Q. Is a bid bond and payment and performance (P&P) bonds required?

11.A. Both a bid bond and P&P bonds are required.

12.Q. Will the Government pay for stored materials?

12.A. No, the Government will not pay for stored materials. It is the contractor’s responsibility to properly secure all materials. There are VA security/police personnel that monitor healthcare facility grounds.

13.Q. What are the ICRA and PCRA requirements?

13.A. The seed project has ICRA and PCRA requirements attached. ICRA and PCRA requirements for each task order will be provided at time of task order request for proposal.

14.Q. What are the Quality Control requirements?

mailto:Jennifer.parker6@va.gov

14.A. See project specifications section 01 45 00. The quality control manager must have prior satisfactory experience in healthcare construction of similar scope.

15.Q. Is this project sales tax exempt? If the project is sales tax exempt can the government provide a sales tax exemption certificate?

15.A. See A.7 V.T.C.A. Tax Code §151.311. The applicable tax exemptions are detailed here.

16.Q. Can the required SSHO and Quality Management positions be fulfilled by the qualified superintendent?

16.A. See SOW Number 12. for information on a superintendent fulfilling SSHO and Quality Management.

17.Q. For bonding, can a subcontractor be used?

17.A. All bonding requirements must be held at the offeror/prime contractor level.

18.Q. Can an offeror use the qualifications and past performance of the Teaming Arrangement or is it solely on the offeror/prime contractor?

18.A. A properly established teaming arrangement or joint venture allows for the use of any direct qualifications and past performance of the Contractor team arrangement. See Factor 2: Past Performance.

19.Q. Can the relevant and recent projects proposed be a combination of design-build and design-bid-build?

19.A. Yes. See A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) 2.1 Sub-Factor 1.

20.Q. Do all three projects need to be healthcare projects, or can they be other federal agency renovation projects?

20.A. Yes. However, see the A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) Past Performance Relevancy Rating Key that details levels of relevancy.

21.Q. What are the narrative requirements for the three (3) projects listed under Sub-Factor 1?

21.A. See the narrative requirements under Sub-Factor 1 for each of the three (3) projects.

22.Q. Can the Offeror use a proposed major subcontractor's past performance as part of the three

(3) projects that need to be submitted? If yes, do we need to include a teaming agreement or letter of commitment in the proposal?

22.A. Yes, a major subcontractor may be used as part of the three (3) projects so long as it meets the 25% minimum of the total proposed price on the seed project.

23.Q. Why is the bonding capacity set at $20M per individual task order and an annual bonding aggregate minimum of $30M?

23.A. Individual task orders are anticipated to be awarded up to $20M in value. Therefore, a $20M bonding minimum per task order and a $30M bonding minimum as an annual aggregate is appropriate and required to ensure all contractors on the MATOC can potentially manage and perform multiple requirements annually.

24.Q. Is EO 14026 in effect for this MATOC?

24.A. FAR Clause 52.222-55 is in the solicitation, and therefore EO 14026 is applicable.

25.Q. Is line-item completion within the SF 1442 required?

25.A. No, an offeror is not required to complete the line items on the SF 1442. An offeror shall complete and submit Attachment 4 as instructed in the solicitation.

26.Q. Will the same wage determination be used for the duration of the MATOC?

26.A. No, the wage determination pertinent to the project will be determined for each task order request for proposal (TORFP).

27.Q. What are the representations and certifications requirements for this proposal?

27.A. See FAR Provision 52.204-7 System for Award Management, and FAR Clause 52.204-8 Annual Representations and Certifications for information that is required to be submitted within an offer.

28.Q. What is the maximum task order limit?

28.A. $20M is the maximum task order limit.

29.Q. Is there government furnished-equipment (GFE) or government furnished-property (GFP) provided?

29.A. There is no GFE or GFP provided, and beyond utility connections, no GFE or GFP will likely result during the duration of this MATOC.

30.Q. When are construction kick-off meetings and construction notice to proceed (NTP) issued?

30.A. Generally, the kick-off meeting is held on the day P&P bonds are due, which is 10 days after award. Generally, NTPs are issued 10 days after the kick-off meeting is held.

31.Q. Due to current potentially significant tariffs being placed on the importation of building materials such as wood or steel by the current Presidential Executive Branch, if a tariff is placed after bid time and before award will the government consider a price escalation on a contract value for products such as steel or wood should the executive branch levee tariffs effecting such materials? Most of these materials would still have been Buy American compliant as the tariffs would increase pricing on all steel or wood materials, regardless of origin.

31.A. No. The hyperlink below clearly states what the rate of tariffs are for construction-related materials, assuming Buy-American requirements are maintained. As can be seen, mostly aluminum and steel is increased by 25% in 2024. It is still incumbent on an offeror to account for any expenses, taxes, fees, etcetera in submitting a bid on the seed project. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/05/14/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-action-to-protect-american-workers-and-businesses-from-chinas-unfair-trade-practices/

32.Q. Will pay applications for materials secured on site or in a bonded warehouse be approved for payment?

32.A. Only an approved material submittal, with materials verified to be on-site of the specific VA medical facility will warrant approval for invoicing within Tungsten.

33.Q. Will the Government consider changing the days for Government acceptance of bid offers?

33.A. No, per 13.d. of the solicitation “Offers providing less than 180 calendar days for Government acceptance after the date offers are due will not be considered and will be rejected.”

34.Q. Will the Government consider use of economic price adjustment?

34.A. No.

35.Q. Does the solicitation comply with the Executive order 14005?

35.A. FAR clause 52.225-9 and 52.225-10 applies regarding “Buy American” requirements.

36.Q. Are mailed in physical proposals required?

36.A. No. Proposals shall be provided via email to horacio.fernandez@va.gov. See block 10 of the conformed solicitation. See also A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) D. Proposal Submission, which states “The offeror’s proposal shall be submitted electronically.”

37.Q. Are the security requirements for the seed project the same for all task orders?

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/05/14/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-action-to-protect-american-workers-and-businesses-from-chinas-unfair-trade-practices/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/05/14/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-action-to-protect-american-workers-and-businesses-from-chinas-unfair-trade-practices/ https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/05/14/fact-sheet-president-biden-takes-action-to-protect-american-workers-and-businesses-from-chinas-unfair-trade-practices/ mailto:horacio.fernandez@va.gov

37.A. No, the security requirements are specific to each task order under this MATOC. Specific security details will be provided for each TORFP.

38.Q. In addition to the P&P bonds for the seed project, is an approved bonding capacity letter required?

38.A. Yes, A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) Factor 1: Technical Acceptability Bonding Capacity – Minimum $20M requires that an offeror provides verifiable proof of the minimum bonding capacity required.

39.Q. What is the range of task orders for this MATOC?

39.A. See SF 1442 Page 1 Block 10.

40.Q. Will the Government consider a second RFI period?

40.A. Yes, by nature of a new seed project being utilized, a second RFI period for this solicitation will be provided.

41.Q. What is the bid bond amount required?

41.A. 20% or $3,000,000.00 of the offeror’s bid amount, whichever is lower.

42.Q. Will the Government clarify who needs to submit performance and payment bonds?

42.A. Factor 1 is updated to provide clarity.

43.Q. Will the Government disclose results of market research?

43.Q. No. While market research sought information and responses from industry, the market research report is an internal Government document.

44.Q. Would the Government confirm the calendar days for the period of performance for the seed project?

44.A. See the Statement of Work (SOW) – 365 days.

45.Q. For the previous MATOC, what was the range of task orders?

45.A. The same as this current solicitation, $2,000.00 to $20,000,000.00.

46.Q. Does the period of performance start on day of award of a task order?

46.A. The period of performance generally starts 10 days after the notice to proceed is provided, which is generally 10 days after initial task order award.

47.Q. Would you clarify “A major subcontractor is defined as one whose subcontract is for more than 25% of the total proposed price. In either case, the prime contractor and proposed major subcontractor(s) will be assessed individually and the results will then be assessed in their totality to derive the Offeror’s Past Performance rating”?

47.A. Factor 2: Past Performance is clear on its definition of a major subcontractor. If a proposed major subcontractor will perform more than 25% of the seed project, then that major subcontractor’s past performance may and will be used to assess a total Offeror’s Past Performance rating. Please note that the requirements of VAAR 852.219-73 VA Notice of Total Set-Aside for Certified Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses still applies.

48.Q. Are design-bid-build and/or two-phase design-build projects allowed to be submitted for past performance?

48.A. Any combination of the traditional construction (design-bid-build) or two-phase design-build projects is acceptable, so long as three (3) projects are provided as required by the solicitation.

49.Q. Are a table of contents required for each volume? Please advise if any table of contents in the Volume II Past Performance is not included in the page limitations?

49.A. No, note that the solicitation states under A.6. Proposal Preparation Instructions (MATOC) 2.

Proposal Files. c. “A Table of Contents and/or a glossary of abbreviations or acronyms will not be included in the page count of any of the Volumes. However, be advised that all information contained within any Table of Contents and/or glossary of abbreviations or acronyms submitted with an Offeror’s proposal will not be evaluated by the Government.”

50.Q. Are there any specifically required subcontractors?

50.A. No.

51.Q. Will the Government consider partially completed projects for past performance?

51.A. No.

52.Q. What are the work hours?

52.A. Each task order will have its own work hours, stated in the SOW.

53.Q. What is the minimum and maximum number of awardees?

53.A. See SF 1442, Page 1, Block 10 of the conformed solicitation.

671A4-20-160 Questions and Answers

RFI# 001 Plan sheet MI-002 states “The boiler fuel oil pumping system furnished by others…” Is the boiler fuel oil pumping system furnished by others and not in contract or is the boiler fuel oil pumping system existing to remain?

a. VAMC Answer: As stated in the SOW, the boilers and plant steam accessory equipment

(tanks, pumps, condensate return, valves, piping, controls, metering, water treatment, etc.)

are in contract. MI sheets are typical diagrams, details, and schedules for the proposed mechanical controls system.

RFI# 002 If any hazardous materials abatement is required by this contract, provide a hazardous materials survey and abatement specifications including quantities by amendment.

a. VAMC Answer: Hazardous material abatement is not in scope. See RFI#002 Attachment for the 2021 Limited Asbestos Survey by Astex Environmental Services. If unreported ACM is found, the Contractor shall notify the CO and COR for clarification. VAMC has an in-house team for asbestos abatement that shall remove the unreported ACM.

RFI# 003 Detail 10/M-004 states “see Structural” referring to the concrete pad. Please provide the structural plan including the complete concrete pad design.

a. AE Answer: Disregard “refer to structural”, it is a 6”H concrete pad.

b. VAMC Answer: Due to age of the building, there are no original structural drawings available. The existing reinforced concrete equipment pad is 6” thick 4,000 PSI with #4 Bar @ 12” o/c each way. The pad is also overlayed with a 4” thick layer of fiber reinforced concrete.

RFI# 004 GN1/M011 refers to “JCI”. Please clarify what is intended.

a. AE Answer: JCI refers to Johnson Controls Inc., which is the specified Controls System (to be a new DDC System and associated front end).

RFI# 005 General Note 1/M011 What are the words “dashed lines” referring to?

a. AE Answer: They are referring to dashed lines in the Plan that refer to the DDC Control System.

b. VAMC Answer: The words “dashed lines” on Sheet M-011 are referring to the dashed lines found on the Feed Water Level Settings/Controls and the Deaerator Tank Water Level Settings/Controls diagrams.

RFI# 006 General Note 26/M001. Where is the 20’x12’ Temporary Office Trailer (for the boiler operators and the temporary boiler controls and panels) to be located?

a. AE Answer: The Temporary Office Trailer shall be located near the Temporary Boiler Skids, and is means/methods by the General Contractor (GC), but shall be verified/confirmed with the VA COR prior to locating. Its preferred location is to be as close as possible to the Temporary Boiler Skids.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur, the boiler operators must maintain line of sight. The temporary office trailer shall be near the temporary boilers. We recommend the immediate area to the east of Temporary Boiler #1 to not block the intersection.

RFI# 007 Please identify the building, electrical panel, and circuit to temporarily power the government’s

Temporary Office Trailer for the Temporary Boiler Operators.

a. AE Answer: Electrical panel “84-A” or Panel “PMBP” in Building 84, depending on the SPARE breakers can be used for temporary power to the Government’s temporary office trailer.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur, the Contractor may also use the (E) BLDG 84 Feed (50A) or the

(E) Incinerator Building Feed (200A) noted on the Electrical Single Line Diagrams. See Electrical Site Plan, Sheet ES-300, for approximate location of the Existing Incinerator Building (Building 44) and the Existing Building 84.

RFI# 008 Reference Keyed Note 13/MH100. Where is the connection to be made to the existing sewer?

a. AE Answer: Disregard Note 13 on Sheet MH-100. It shall be connected to an existing floor drain in the existing Equipment room that houses existing Chemical Treatment.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur. The existing floor drain is centered in the Equipment Room, between Grid B3 and Grid B4, and is approximately 4”. The existing 4” sewer runs from the Equipment Room floor drain for the R.O Machine (Chemical Treatment System) to the Boiler Room floor drain for the Reheat Tank (Heat Recovery).

RFI# 009 If the rollup door is inoperable and requires replacement so that access is provided for the large boilers, please provide a specification for the new door.

a. VAMC Answer: Roll-up door opens manually and may be fully removed. Door replacement is not in scope.

RFI# 010 Keyed note 13/MH100 requires tie-in of floor sinks located outside into the sewer system inside the building. Is the existing floor concrete slab on grade requiring saw cuts, demolition and patch or does the building have a crawl space?

a. AE Answer: The building does not have a crawlspace. It shall be connected to an existing floor drain in the existing Equipment room that houses existing Chemical Treatment.

b. VAMC Answer: Note 14, on Sheet MH-100, indicates the approximate location of floor sinks for the temporary boilers which shall be mobile and/or elevated. Note 12 on Sheet MH-100 shows the approximate above grade routing of the drain piping to the sewer system inside the building. This drain piping shall be routed above grade from the floor sinks of the temporary units to the floor drain located inside the Equipment Room.

RFI# 011 Keyed Note 5/ MH100. Will the existing rollup door fully open or open at all since it has been modified with the personnel door that is installed in it?

a. VAMC Answer: Roll-up door indicated on the plans is typically closed but can be fully removed if needed for the construction. The roll-up door will currently open to about 10 feet.

If the entire roll-up door is removed, you would have an opening of about 15 feet.

RFI# 012 Keyed Note 13/PP-100. Are these temporary lines to the temporary boilers?

a. AE Answer: Yes.

RFI# 013 Keyed Note 4/ES-300. Where are the temporary generator and its fuel tank to be located?

a. AE Answer: The Temporary Generator should be placed closer to the Temporary boilers and location to be coordinated with VA. The temporary generator will have its own belly for fuel.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur. The Contractor’s temporary generator and fuel tanks shall be near the temporary boilers. We recommend the immediate area to the west of Temporary Boiler #2.

RFI# 014 The plans provide for a scheduled temporary boiler but not for the temporary generator. Please provide.

a. AE Answer: The temporary generator is to be of the same rating as the existing generator size, 230kW, 277/480V, 3-Phase, 4-Wire.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur. Temporary and new generators shall be of equal or higher kW/kVA ratings as the proposed generator and in compliance with the plans and specifications.

RFI# 015 Is the VA or the contractor supplying and paying for the diesel usage in the temporary generator?

a. AE Answer: Reference General Requirements Specifications Section 010000, paragraph

1.15 Availability and Use of Utility Services.

b. VAMC Answer: Fuel required for the Contractor’s temporary (backup) generator may be provided by the Government for the initial setup and required maintenance testing for the 6-month construction period. Fuel required for prolonged setup, adjustments, or modifications caused by improper planning or construction (means and methods) shall be furnished and paid at Contractor’s expense.

RFI# 016 Solicitation indicates “It is crucial that all tie-in work associated with the steam and condensate systems will be accomplished and completed during the warmer months to minimize critical system shutdowns.” Will the VA provide additional time, including additional time for the temporary boilers in the event the tie-in work falls during the cooler months?

a. AE Answer: VA to advice.

b. VAMC Answer: That information was provided so the Contractor may plan accordingly and develop a construction schedule with critical activities and phasing requirements. The work shall be completed within a 6-month period of continued construction activities (without any work stoppages).

RFI# 017 General note 9/M-001 steam header set pressure is left blank. Please provide.

a. AE Answer: Steam header set pressure shall be 90 PSIG.

RFI# 018 General note 10/M-001 Altitude-boiler room floor is left blank. Please provide.

a. VAMC Answer: The Boiler Room floor elevation is approximately 1,627.5 ft. and the

Equipment Room floor elevation is approximately 1,632.3 ft.

RFI# 019 Keynote 5/MP-200 refers to sheet M-023 not provided. Please provide.

a. AE Answer: Disregard note.

RFI# 020 Confirm seismic requirements “Not Required” as Kerrville is in seismic zone 0, reference

General Note 11/M-002.

a. VAMC Answer: AE to confirm or provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Confirmed seismic requirements are not required, this was a mistake inclusion in the General Notes.

RFI# 021 Economizer note 3 on M-002, Minimum flue gas temperature is left blank. Please provide.

a. VAMC Answer: The design temperature of the tubes shall be greater of either the saturated steam temperature corresponding to the MAWP of the economizer or the maximum mean metal temperature under operating conditions. Further the manufacturer representative stated that there is no Min Flue Gas Temperature, so is not applicable.

RFI# 022 Keynote 20/MD-100 calls to demolish the solar water tank. Does this require the demolition of the concrete pad as well?

a. AE Answer: The concrete pad is in good condition and shall remain. The Solar Tank and associated supports shall be removed.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur, demolition of the concrete pad for the existing solar water tank is not required.

RFI# 023 Reference demolition note 3/E-001. Should the last word “area” in the first sentence be deleted? Confirm that electrical not affected by the boiler replacement is to remain as is and we are to demo only as shown on the plans.

a. VAMC Answer: AE to confirm if Demolition Note 3 on Sheet E-001 is correct.

b. AE Answer: The last word “Area” can be ignored. The Electrical not affected by the Boiler replacement is to remain and demolition should be only as shown on the plans.

RFI# 024 Plan notes conflict as to whether the existing compressor along column line 1 between column lines G & H is to remain, removed, or replaced. Note 5/EDP-100 calls to “remove existing compressor” but MH-300 keynote 3 indicates the air compressor is to remain, while other drawings including Keynote 8/MD100 are indecisive (Air compressor to remain, but verify with COR if it is to be reused or replaced)? Please clarify if this air compressor is to remain, be demolished or be replaced.

a. AE: The existing air compressors (2) shall remain for reuse.

b. VAMC Answer: Concur. There are two existing air compressors, both are existing to remain:

Air compressor #1: Ingersoll Rand, vertical mount, model # 2475, 80-gallon tank size.

Air compressor #2: Ingersoll Rand, horizontal mount, model # 71T2-10D, 120-gallon tank size.

RFI# 025 We understand and please confirm that all electrical conduit is surface mounted.

a. AE Answer: All Electrical conduits within the Boiler building are to be surface mounted.

RFI# 026 Detail 1/E400 shows fire wall penetrations. Please provide floor plan showing fire wall locations.

a. AE Answer: Life Safety plans were not used, the design assumed max. of 2-HR Fire rated wall for this building type. Detail #1 on Sheet E400 for Fire Wall penetration is provided with this assumption as well.

b. VAMC Answer: Fire Wall Penetration Detail 1, on Sheet E-400, shall be used for all wall penetrations in the building.

RFI# 027 Is the current roof under warranty? If yes, please provide name of manufacturer and/or contractor.

a. VAMC Answer: Yes, there is a current warranty for the Roofing System of Boiler Plant

Building 19 covered by Manufacturer Johns Manville Roofing Systems. The roofing contractor was American Roofing & Metal.

RFI# 028 Confirm detail 1/E005 label “(N) Building D Main Switchboard “MSD”, 277Y/480V, 30-4W” is a typo and that there is no NEW Building D Main Switchboard required for the project.

a. VAMC Answer: AE to confirm or provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Confirmed there is NO new Building D Main Switchboard requirement.

RFI# 029 Plan detail 6/M-006 Pipe Stand detail calls for contractor to provide exterior engineered structural supports (Footing top is at Finished Grade) to be designed and stamped by registered engineer as well as referencing structural drawings which are not provided. Where outside does this detail apply?

a. VAMC Answer: Detail 6, on Sheet M-006, is for temporary piping. AE to provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: This applies to the temporary piping from the temporary boiler skids shown along the building.

RFI# 030 Please identify the location of the ATS on a floor plan.

a. VAMC Answer: ATS is not located on the boiler plant floor plan, the ATS is in Building 84.

Reference Key Note 3, on sheet ES-300, for approximate location of ATS. AE to provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Existing ATS is in Electrical Room 102 of Building #84. See Key Note #3 on Sheet ES-300.

RFI# 031 Project requires demolition of the roof mounted solar system. Are demolition of the solar roof top supports up to but not including the pitch pockets? Or are the numerous pitch pockets required to be demolished with holes in concrete deck filled and roof patched?

a. VA Answer: Solar roof system to be fully demolished and roof penetrations patched as shown in Detail 5, on Sheet M-007. AE to confirm.

b. AE Answer: Entire system shall be removed, and concrete deck roof filled, and roof patched.

RFI# 032 Keynote 20 MPD-100 states “Demo water treatment station, replace in kind.” While plan sheet PP-100 indicates the chemical treatment system is existing to remain. We understand the system is existing to remain unless clarified otherwise and design provided by amendment.

a. VAMC Answer: Sheet PP-100 indicates a new Chemical Treatment System. AE to confirm or provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: This is a mistake on the Plumbing Plans, the Water Treatment station is to be replaced “like for like”. Service Drums are double wall, but the tubing is not double wall.

New tubing shall be double walled.

RFI# 033 How thick is the existing rigid roof insulation?

a. VAMC Answer: The existing roof insulation for the boiler room is approximately 3 to 4 inches. Insulation type is NRG3, TNRG, DuraBoard by Johns Manville.

RFI# 034 How thick is the existing concrete roof deck?

a. VAMC Answer: The existing concrete roof slab for the building is approximately 10 inches thick and 4,000 PSI concrete. Exposed concrete ceilings in the boiler room are painted with Sherwin Williams SW 7562 “Roman Column”.

RFI# 035 What is the thickness of the existing concrete equipment pad for the boilers?

a. VAMC Answer: The existing reinforced concrete equipment pad is approximately 6” thick with #4 Bar @ 12” o/c each way. The pad is also overlayed with a 4” thick layer of fiber reinforced concrete.

RFI# 036 What existing underground utilities are in the path of the new underground #2 Fuel lines, reference keynote 17/MH-100?

a. VAMC Answer: Due to age of the site and building there are various active and abandoned utilities in the area. The Contractor shall anticipate gas, fuel, steam, sewer, electrical, fiber internet, telecom, and water lines.

RFI# 037 Will the VA trim the tree branches where the new temporary boiler units are located, reference

MH-100?

a. VAMC Answer: Yes, the VAMC may cut down those tree branches surrounding the area of the proposed temporary boilers.

RFI# 038 Please provide complete as-built drawings for building 19.

a. VAMC Answer: There are no complete as-built drawings for building 19.

RFI# 039 Mechanical control plan sheets including MI-001 and MI-002 refer to standard drawings issued in 2008 or plan sheets that haven’t been provided such as MP4.1, MP2.1... This is not a design/build project. Please confirm that contractors shall rely on the plans and specifications provided and that the VA will provide any required referenced plans or specifications by amendment if applicable to the project.

a. VAMC Answer: Confirmed. AE to provide further clarification, if needed.

RFI# 040 Drawing E-003 Fused Disconnect Switch/Feeder Schedule lists all disconnect switches as fused and enclosures that are rated NEMA 3R. Can the enclosures for these safety switches be NEMA 1 indoor rated, since there are other existing junction boxes, wiring devices and power/control enclosures in the same areas with NEMA 1 indoor ratings?

a. VAMC Answer: No, the Contractor shall follow the plans and specifications. All new disconnect switches shall be NEMA 3R rated, per plans.

RFI# 041 Drawing E-003 Fused Disconnect Switch/Feeder Schedule lists the fused disconnect switch for

Circuit 5, 19-DA-1 as being 100A Frame with 60A fuses. Shouldn’t this switch be rated 60A with 60A fuses?

a. VAMC Answer: The Contractor shall follow the plans and specifications. The disconnect switch for Circuit #5, 19-DA-1 shall be rated for 100A with 60A fuses.

RFI# 042 Both drawing E-004 Demo Single-Line Diagram and drawing E-005 New Single-Line Diagram have a General Note G which states “Verify AIC with SMUD prior to purchasing switchgear”.

Who is “SMUD” and why would they be asked to verify the AIC ratings of any switchgear? Has there been an overcurrent protective device coordination study performed for the existing or added switchgear for this project? If so, please provide this information. Although the information provided on the single-line diagrams for existing MCC-1 indicates the motor control center is rated at 50K AIC, there are no AIC ratings provided for the new circuit breakers to be added to MCC-1 (labeled as “MCC-K” on site). Please provide the required AIC ratings for all new circuit breakers. We were not able to open any existing panels or the motor control center during the site visit to verify the ratings of the current circuit breakers prior to bid and this information is necessary to accurately price these new circuit breakers.

a. AE Answer: Please ignore the General Note “G” on both the Sheets E-004 & E-005. VA to provide the AIC rating of the existing breakers.

b. VAMC Answer: The label is correct, MCC-K is MCC-1 on the project plans. The rating for the new panel/breakers shall be 65000 AIC (panel) / 65000 AIC (breakers).

(E) MCC-1=MCC-K 480/277V 3Ø, 4W 600A, 65K AIC, SD.

RFI# 043 Both drawing E-004 Demo Single-Line Diagram and drawing E-005 New Single-Line Diagram have a Keyed Note 2 which states, “Grounding Electrode Conductor to structural metal frame.

Use exothermic welding for connection”. Where is this note supposed to be indicated on the drawings, or does it not apply to any new work as part of this project?

a. AE Answer: Note #2 is supposed to be at the grounding shown for the existing

Transformer” XT-XNB” on sheet E-004 and E-005.

RFI# 044 Drawing EL-200 New Lighting Plan shows new scheduled lighting fixtures to be installed at locations slightly different from the locations of the existing fixtures. At what height above finished floor are bottom of these new fixtures to be mounted? Is it intended that they be mounted directly to the concrete structure above, or below the piping racks where they existing ones are now located? There is no additional special mounting information or manufacturing options included on the schedule indicating the required support method. On drawing E-400, Detail 2, there are details showing a fixture mounted to the bottom of a strut channel system with threaded rod supports and locations of sway bracing. Does this detail apply to the new lighting for this project? Or are the new lighting fixtures to be mounted to the existing strut system being utilized by the existing fixtures? There is also a Detail Keyed Note 1 included with this detail stating, “See Detail 1 for additional information” and it points to sway brace connection at the light fixture. Please clarify.

a. VAMC Answer: All electrical devices and equipment shall be recessed in walls unless otherwise noted. AE to provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Mount the new Lighting fixtures below the piping rack at the locations as shown on sheet EL-200 to avoid any conflict with the new Boilers being installed in the room. Mount the new lighting fixtures to the existing strut system being utilized by the existing fixtures.

RFI# 045 Is a temporary portable generator necessary for powering both temporary boilers? Since they are to be set up with N+1 redundancy, will only one be used at a time? If so, can they not be powered by the existing electrical system available at the Boiler Plant or elsewhere? Will only one be in operation at a time? There is going to be considerable expense and labor involved in providing another temporary generator source for the boilers, including maintenance, and ensuring diesel fuel is sufficient and always provided. The drawings mention basing the use of a temporary generator for the boilers for a period of 6 months. Is this also, correct?

a. VAMC Answer: The temporary (backup) generator is required backup power for the temporary boilers, auxiliary equipment, and controls. If all goes well, the temporary backup generator will only need initial setup and periodic testing. See Prebid RFI#015 for limited fuel that may be provided by the Government. AE to provide further clarification regarding redundancy.

b. AE Answer: The temporary Generator will not only power the temporary boilers but all the temporary office trailer. It is correct that only one (1) boiler will be used at a time (N+1 Redundancy). VA to confirm if they want to run the temporary boiler and office trailer from the temporary generator or from existing electrical system. Contractor will need to verify at the site the source of power for temporary equipment.

RFI# 046 Is there any abatement required as part of the project? There is not a hazardous material report included in the specifications nor specification 028211 as noted on page 173 of the specifications.

a. VAMC Answer: Asbestos abatement is not in scope. See the 2021 Limited Asbestos

Survey by Astex Environmental Services. Any ACM left out of this report must still be removed under this project and shall be done so by the VAMC in-house abatement team. If the Contractor is required to remove unreported Asbestos this should be handled as a contract modification and the appropriate specifications will be provided.

RFI# 047 The documents require the rental boilers be for 6 months for the base bid. Does that mean that if the project takes longer the Government will pay the additional rental cost?

a. VAMC Answer: No, it is the Contractors responsibility to develop a project schedule that ensures all construction site work accomplished within the 6-month period. The Boilers are a critical system to the VAMC and should not be interrupted for a period longer than 6 months. After award, the Contractor will be required to provide a schedule with CPM and phasing that demonstrates their ability to complete the project on time. Additional rental costs due to improper planning or construction (means and methods) shall be paid at Contractor’s expense.

RFI# 048 The Quality Control paragraph 11 page 20 of 116 of the solicitation “SPECIFICS” requires a full time QC Manager in healthcare construction of similar scope. It also references the QC specifications 01 45 00 which requires professionals in each of the trade disciplines. These requirements seem extremely costly for the size and scope of this project. Are these going to be modified to a standard testing and inspection with a corporate QC manager along with the superintendent responsible for the inspections and testing to be completed and verified and furnished to the owner in a weekly report?

a. VAMC Answer: No, all project specifications must be followed. The Contractor’s QC

Manager is required to be a Graduate Engineer with a minimum of 5 years Project Management or QC Management experience with projects of similar scope. In addition, the QC Manager is required to complete the CQM course referenced in the specifications. Note that a single qualified person may cover all professional trade areas if they meet the experience requirements and workload allows.

RFI# 049 Page 2 of GENERAL REQUIREMENTS section 01 00 00 Paragraph C. Guards: requires “1.

The General Contractor shall provide unarmed guards at the project site after Construction Hours or as requested by the VA during the Building Phase.” Please clarify and confirm the requirements for unarmed guards.

a. VAMC Answer: The Contractor may use unarmed guards and/or video surveillance after hours to protect construction materials and equipment; The use of unarmed guards and/or video surveillance is by choice of the Contractor.

RFI# 050 When conflicts exist between project drawings and project written specifications, which take precedence over the other?

a. VAMC Answer: Generally, the TIL documents (including the VA Master Construction

Specifications) will govern. For bidding purposes use the most stringent requirements between the project plans and specifications. If conflicts exist between the SOW, plans, specifications, and/or site conditions, the Contractor shall send an RFI to the CO and COR for clarification.

RFI# 051 Drawings MI-001 and MI-002 plan for feedwater control (DA tank and Condensate/surge tank) control to be included in plant master panel. This poses an issue of a single point failure condition where if the plant master panel loses power or is shut down, the feedwater system will also shut down and not be able to provide feedwater to the boilers. Should feedwater system be provided in separate control panel at the tanks to eliminate this?

condition?

a. VAMC Answer: Reference the electrical sheets for power and backup generator requirements. MI sheets are typical diagrams, details, and schedules for the proposed mechanical controls system.

RFI# 052 Sheet M-004, Drawing section 8 indicates steam flow meter to be orifice plate with transmitter, while control drawing MI-005 and specification 23 09 11 specifies vortex style flow meter.

What type of flow meter is to be supplied?

a. VAMC Answer: Steam flow meter (in-line flow sensors) shall be Vortex-Shedding type, as indicated on the project specifications.

RFI# 053 Sheet M-008, Item #8 of the boiler control panel is a separate water level control. will it be acceptable to include water level control in the combustion controller PLC?

RFI# 054 Sheet M-008, Burner control panel layout in section 6 shows vertical scale draft gauges which is old technology and no longer manufactured. Will it be acceptable to have these items as indicators on the HMI Touchscreen?

a. AE Answer: Yes.

b. VAMC Answer: Detail 6, on Sheet M-008, is a typical VA Standard Detail of Burner Control

Panel for Water Tube Boilers. This detail was recommended to be on the project plans by VA Compliance Team. The Contractor may disregard the detail since the proposed boilers are firetube (not water tube) and reference the project specifications for further panel requirements.

RFI# 055 Sheet M-008, Items#9 & #10 indicate economizer temperature indicator. With bypass control of the economizer specified to be motorized and controlled based on economizer outlet stack temp, will it be acceptable to have these functions included in the HMI touchscreen?

RFI# 056 Sheet M-008, Burner control panel shown in section 6 is based on VA standard drawing SD230911-03.dwg which is boiler control panel for water tube boilers. This project specifies fire-tube boilers and the boiler control panel section 2.3 of specification 23 09 11 allows for either freestanding panels or boiler mounted control panels. Drawing MH-200 key note 12 also indicates boiler control panel to be mounted on Unistrut support in front of each boiler. What is the preferred boiler panel design?

a. VAMC Answer: The proposed boiler control panel for this project is shown on the plans to be mounted (on Unistrut support) in the aisle in front of the boilers for visibility. AE to provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Burner control panel shall be located as freestanding panels as shown on sheet MH-200.

RFI# 057 Sheet M-008, Boiler Plant Master control panel layout in section 2 of drawing M-008 is the standard SD230911-04.dwg drawing. This drawing conflicts with the master panel layout of drawing MI-007 sections 1 & 2. Which layout design is required?

a. VAMC Answer: The Contractor shall use the proposed layout design and notes found on MI

Sheets of the project plans and requirements found on the project specifications. AE to provide further clarification.

b. AE Answer: Use the layout from Sheet MI-007 of the project plans.

RFI# 058 The plant current propane backup system for firing on #2 fuel oil as is not compliant as required by Design Manual and the 8th edition Testing manual. Additionally, the project design for the propane system for ignitor fuel is shown on drawing M-010 section 1 as being outside.

This conflicts with SD235239-03.dwg standard that requires propane backup system to be housed in a separate outside building and installing backup tanks with associated alarms and safety devices. Will project drawings be revised to meet this standard, and will OHE be required to review and approve design of the installation?

a. AE Answer: VA to advice if plans shall be revised to meet this standard or reuse existing

Fuel Oil Tank.

b. VAMC Answer: We are not aware of any compliance issues with the existing propane backup system. We are only aware of the new requirement for enclosure of the LPG Tanks as shown in SD235239-03.dwg TIL Standard Details. Installing this enclosure is not in scope of this project.

RFI# 059 Note 7 of drawing MH-200 specifies air compressor to remain with additional note in red to verify with COR is OK to re-use. Additionally, note 24 indicates to route ¼” air to burner from ½” compressed air system. Question: new burners are typically supplied with dedicated atomizing media compressors, eliminating issues of plant air system not being able to provide adequate, steady volume and pressure of atomizing media. Can existing air compressors be eliminated?

a. VAMC Answer: The existing air compressors (2) shall remain for reuse, please protect in place.

RFI# 060 Specification 23 52 39 section 2.3.A.2 specifies “Oil Burner: Gun type, inside mix, low pressure atomizing.” Will burners that utilize pressure atomization in-lieu of atomizing air media be acceptable?

a. VAMC Answer: The project plans and specifications must be followed.

RFI# 061 Drawings MI-001 thru MI-007 are representations of the Hays Cleveland UPAC control system.

The CU-02 CPU from this control system is Obsolete and replaced with the nP4 CPU.

Additionally, Hays Cleveland had been re-branded as Cleveland Controls and no long manufactures this control system. Will a nP4 based control system that meets project specifications be acceptable?

a. AE Answer: Yes.

b. VAMC Answer: Confirmed CU02 model has been replaced by nP4. The MI Sheets found on the project plans show the proposed Mechanical Control Details, but the Contractor may propose a similar system to the proposed that meets the project specifications and site conditions.

RFI# 062 Specification 23 52 29 section 2.3.C.4.a lists turndown to be //10:1// //8:1// //5:1//. What is the turndown required for this project?

a. VAMC Answer: 10 to 1 turndown requirement, per Sheet M-002 of the project plans.

RFI# 063 Temporary boilers required for the project are required to meet current 8th edition safety device testing manual and all VA specifications. Does this also include turndown and emissions (<30ppm NOx)?

a. VAMC Answer: Typically, the VA prefers to avoid any requirements for low NOx limits such as <30ppm unless local air emission regulations require such, because of typical adverse effects on turndown, capacity, and efficiency. AE to provide requirements, if any.

b. AE Answer: Reference Fire Tube Steam Boiler Schedule on Sheet M-002. See note 7 for emission limits and note 8 for turndown requirements.

RFI# 064 Will remote monitoring (no control functions) of the temporary boilers be required for the operators during the project?

a. VAMC Answer: Both monitoring and control functions for the temporary trailers are listed on the project plans and specifications. See Sheet M-001 and Sheet MH-100 for some of the temporary trailer requirements, control features, and functions.

RFI# 065 Will the plant operators continue to work from office 19-100 on drawing MH-100 during the project, or will temporary facilities be required to be provided by the contractor for operation of the temporary boilers?

a. VAMC Answer: As stated on the SOW, Boiler Plant Building 19 will be vacated and shall remain unoccupied throughout the construction period of performance.

RFI# 066 New fire suppression and fire alarm installation are not mentioned in the conformed solicitation, the project drawings, and the specifications. Are there any requirements for partially new or completely new fire suppression and fire alarm systems? If so, clarify what the requirements are for both fire suppression and fire alarm in the conformed solicitation Scope of Work and the Plans and Specifications.

a. VAMC Answer: New fire suppression and fire alarms are not in scope.

RFI# 067 Are we to dispose of/abate any asbestos, lead, mold, or other hazardous materials as part of this project? If so, provide appropriate hazardous material site survey report(s).

a. VAMC Answer: Repeat question. See Prebid RFI#002.

RFI# 068 What will the ICRA level be for this project?

a. VAMC Answer: ICRA is included in the project specifications. This project will be ICRA level 3, all ICRA control measures for levels 1, 2, and 3 will apply.

RFI# 069 Are there any required/proprietary subcontractors the general contractor is to hire and/or use on the project? For example, on page 17 of 116, Item iv. 8. of the conformed solicitation it specifically states: “New auxiliary equipment and computer controls compatible with Johnson Controls METASYS.” We assume the Government is not mandating that Johnson Controls be awarded the work by the successful offeror, only that the equipment and computer controls provided be compatible with the Johnson Control METASYS system. Are we correct in this assumption?

a. AE Answer: JCI refers to Johnson Controls Inc., which is the specified Controls System (to be a new DDC System and associated front end).

b. VAMC Answer: Assumption based solely on the SOW is incorrect. The Contractor shall review the project plans and specifications, including Section 23 09 11, prior to bidding.

RFI# 070 Drawing M-001, General Note 9. Provide steam header set pressures.

a. VAMC Answer: Repeat question, see RFI#017.

RFI# 071 Drawing M-001, General Note 9. Provide altitude-boiler room floor data above sea level.

a. VAMC Answer: Repeat question, see Prebid RFI#018.

RFI# 072 Drawing M-011, General Notes 1. and 4. There are multiple places in this drawing and in other places in the drawings that JCI is being specified to provide various items. Is the Government directing that the successful Offeror provide a sole source contract to JCI for the work shown?

a. VAMC Answer:…