RFIs 36C25820B0003 EMERGENCY BUS AND SWITCHGEAR MODIFICATIONS.docx

IFB/Solicitation # 36C25820B0003

EMERGENCY BUS AND SWITCHGEAR MODIFICATIONS

RFIs - Questions & Answers

Q1: On the beta.sam.gov website the pre-solicitation for this project was classified with the NAICS Code of 236220 which is Commercial and Institutional Building Construction. When the solicitation was issued on 4/14/2020,the project was posted with the NAICS Code of 238210 Electrical Contractors and other Wiring Installation Contractors, Size Standard $16.5M. This project is relatively large with an Order of Magnitude of $5M-$10M and will require intense coordination and scheduling with the VA San Diego. The project scope of work will require the establishment of infection control measures, architectural demolition, saw cutting, core drilling, asphalt removal, concrete removal, repairs to finishes such as gypsum board, painting, floor repair, louvers, new door, frame & hardware installation, concrete work, asphalt, landscaping and fencing. None of these activities are performed by electrical specialty contractors. These activities are generally performed and/or managed by general contractors under NAICS Code of 236220. Will the VA consider changing the NAICS Code back to 236220 as it was originally listed on beta.sam.gov? This will allowing for greater competition for this important and difficult project, and likely a better value to the Government?

A1: Yes, the NAICS is changed to 236220 as previously posted in Pre-Solicitation Notice.

Q2: Specification Section 31 20 00, Page 599, 3.2.A.4 It reads as follows "The Contractor is required to hire a Professional Geotechnical Engineer to provide inspection of excavations and soil/groundwater conditions throughout construction. The Geotechnical Engineer shall be responsible for performing pre-construction and periodic site visits throughout construction to assess site conditions. The Geotechnical Engineer shall update the excavation, sheeting and dewatering plans as construction progresses to reflect changing conditions and shall submit an updated plan if necessary. A written report shall be submitted, at least monthly, informing the Contractor and Contracting Officer’s Representative of the status of the plan and an accounting of the Contractor's adherence to the plan addressing any present or potential problems. The Geotechnical Engineer shall be available to meet with the Contracting Officer’s Representative at any time throughout the contract duration." Will the VA confirm this clause will be applicable to this project and if so, will the VA provide the requisite Geotechnical Report for this project in order to facilitate the Geotechnical Engineering work for this requirement?

A2: Yes, this specification is applicable. Attached are geotechnical surveys that have been conducted in the past for other projects on site. Unfortunately we do not have a survey specifically for this project. See 4 attachments to Amendment 0002.