36C26026R0003 - 668-23-101 - Questions with Consolidated Responses 2.pdf

Request for Information – Government Response

668-23-101 Solicitation Number: 36C26026R0003 Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center

5/11/2026

Below are questions that were submitted by potential Contractors for the above referenced project along with the Government’s answers to the Request for Information.

The responses from the Government are indicated in red text.

RFI #1 -

Section L Factor 2 requires that "at least two (2) projects should demonstrate experience with the installation and start-up of similar large cooling equipment." Will the Government please clarify the threshold tonnage of cooling capacity considered "similar large cooling equipment" for the purposes of this evaluation factor? For example, is the relevant threshold the total connected cooling capacity of the new chiller plant (the design intent for Project 668-23-101), or a lower tonnage threshold representative of "similar" but not identical scale?

For this evaluation factor similar large cooling equipment will be considered chillers with at least a capacity of 400 tons.

RFI #2 -

Section M states: "If an offeror relies on an affiliate (such as a parent company, subsidiary, or joint venture partner) or a proposed subcontractor to demonstrate past performance, the proposal must clearly describe the relationship and the extent to which that affiliate or subcontractor will participate in contract performance in order to receive credit." The offeror as SDVOSBC prime intends to submit projects performed by a proposed first-tier subcontractor for the "similar large cooling equipment" requirement. Will the Government please confirm that this approach is consistent with Section M's "appropriate consideration" provision, and that subcontractor past performance, when clearly described per Section M, will be evaluated on the basis of recency, relevancy, and quality of performance equivalently to offeror-self-performed past performance?

An SDVOSB prime may submit past performance references from a proposed first-tier subcontractor to demonstrate experience with similar large cooling equipment. The proposal must clearly describe the relationship and the extent to which that affiliate or subcontractor will participate in contract performance in order to receive credit, as stated in the solicitation.

RFI #3 -

Spec 26 05 13 Medium-Voltage Cables is referenced in the Specifications. Will the Government please confirm the existing campus primary loop nominal voltage (e.g., 12.47 kV, 13.8 kV, or other), the existing campus loop architecture (open-loop / closed-loop / radial), and the typical scheduling window for planned outages (i.e., shoulder seasons, weekends, off-hours preferred)?

Nominal voltage 13.2 kV. Both Normal and Emergency loops are constantly energized. The Normal and Emergency loops cannot be isolated at the same time, but can be isolated independently.

Because of this scheduling window can be at any time with coordination.

RFI #4 -

Spec 23 09 23 Direct-Digital Control System for HVAC requires integration with the existing Mann- Grandstaff campus BMS. Will the Government please identify the existing BMS manufacturer, software platform, communication protocol (e.g., BACnet/IP, BACnet MS/TP, LonWorks, Modbus), and any specific OEM controllers required for compatibility?

Existing campus BMS is “Schneider” and is compatible with BACnet/IP.

RFI #5 -

SOW Section 2.1 states the new chiller plant must "tie into the existing chilled water loop" while preserving "the loop architecture." Will the Government please confirm whether the existing campus chilled-water loop is a primary-secondary, primary-only, primary-secondary-tertiary, or variable-primary loop configuration, and any specific tie-in temperature, flow rate, or pressure requirements?

The architecture will be variable-primary, see equipment schedule sheet M-601 for necessary temperature, flow rate and pressure requirements.

RFI #6 -

Will the Government please confirm the source of cooling tower make-up water (campus domestic water, dedicated softened make-up water line, condensate return, or other) and any volume / quality / pressure specifications?

Current plans indicate domestic cold water. Follow sheet P-201 (2”CW up to towers) unless directed otherwise.

RFI #7 -

The cooling towers are roof-mounted on the Building 44 boiler plant adjacent roof per the SOW. Will the Government please confirm whether the existing Building 44 roof has been structurally evaluated and reinforced for the cooling tower dead, live, snow, wind, and seismic loads, or whether structural reinforcement is part of this contract scope and is reflected in the drawings and specifications?

This mentioned roof is the roof of the new chiller plant. The project is designed for this load.

RFI #8 -

Will the Government please confirm whether the chiller, cooling tower, controls, and major equipment specifications permit "or equal" substitutions per the standard VA substitution process, or whether sole-source / proprietary specifications apply to any major equipment?

Or equal substitution is allowed pending approval and with assurance of equivalent performance as the design basis.

RFI #9 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 01 45 00/ sub-section 3.4 Quality Control Organization / pages 115 – 117

Section 01 45 00 requires the Contractor to provide specialized CQC personnel, as applicable, for electrical, mechanical, civil, structural, environmental, architectural, materials technician, submittals clerk, Commissioning Agent/LEED specialist, and low-voltage systems. The same paragraph states that these individuals or specified technical companies are to be directly employed by the General Contractor, may not be employed by a supplier or subcontractor on this project, must be physically present at the construction site during work within their area of responsibility, and may cover more than one area if qualified and workload allows. Based on this language, the Government appears to require not only a CQC System Manager, but also additional Prime-side specialty QC coverage across multiple disciplines during active work in those areas.

That requirement could materially increase the General Contractor’s onsite staffing burden and associated jobsite overhead/general conditions costs depending on the Government’s intended interpretation.

Accordingly, please clarify whether the Government intends for each applicable discipline to be staffed by a separate dedicated onsite QC individual, or whether the requirement is satisfied by qualified specialty QC personnel being physically present only during periods when work in their assigned discipline is active. Please also clarify whether one qualified individual may cover multiple specialty QC disciplines, consistent with the specification language, provided workload allows. In addition, please confirm whether the phrase “specified technical companies are directly employed by the General Contractor” permits the Prime Contractor to satisfy this requirement through independent third-party technical firms retained directly by the Prime, provided such firms are not employed by a supplier or subcontractor on this project. Finally, because this interpretation may materially affect the General Contractor’s staffing plan and associated general conditions pricing, please confirm whether the Government considered this specialty QC staffing requirement in development of the IGE.

The requirement is satisfied by qualified specialty QC personnel being physically present only during periods when work in their assigned discipline is active. These roles may be covered by fewer individuals if the individuals have the knowledge to perform the necessary Quality Control inspections. This can be satisfied by employment of a qualified third party contracted by the Prime.

RFI #10 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 01 45 35/ Part 3 - Execution, 3.1 Responsibilities Matrix / pages 153 – 157

Section 01 45 35 contains requirements applicable “when SIOR is required” and separate requirements applicable “when SIOR is not required,” but the project-specific specifications reviewed do not appear to expressly state which condition applies to this project. Please confirm whether the Government requires the Contractor to retain a Special Inspector of Record (SIOR) for this project, or whether the Contractor is only required to retain Special Inspectors, with the QC Manager performing the supervisory/administrative functions identified in Section 01 45 35 for projects where no SIOR is required.

When specified special inspections are called for by the drawing documents, these inspections are to be performed by a special inspector outside of the QC Manager.

RFI #11 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 05 12 00/Structural Steel Framing, Part 1 - General / pages 360 - 362

Section 05 12 00 appears to require that the structural steel fabricator be an AISC Quality Certification Program participant designated as an AISC Certified Plant, Category STD, and that the structural steel installer/erector be an AISC Quality Certification Program participant designated as an AISC-Certified Erector, Category ACSE. Section 01 45 35 also references AISC fabricator certification in connection with shop inspection and fabricator approval. Because these requirements may materially affect offeror team composition, subcontractor availability, pricing, and bid strategy, offerors request confirmation of the Government’s intended interpretation.

Please confirm whether the Government requires, without exception, that all structural steel for this project be furnished by an AISC Certified Plant, Category STD fabricator and installed by an AISC-Certified Erector, Category ACSE. If so, please also confirm whether the Government intends that no alternate fabricator or erector qualifications will be accepted in lieu of those AISC certifications. This clarification is requested so that all offerors apply a consistent interpretation of the structural steel qualification requirements in pricing and technical approach development.

AISC certification as called for in the specification is required

RFI #12 -

Attachment 3: 668-23-101_Drawings_posted_4.22.2026 / Mechanical Sheet M-601

Mechanical Sheet M-601, Chemical Feed Systems Schedule, Note 3 states: “Refer to Specification 23 25 00. Coordinate equipment manufacturer with facility’s water company, ‘Garratt Callahan.’” The contract documents reviewed do not appear to provide a point of contact for Garratt-Callahan in connection with this requirement. Please provide the appropriate Garratt-Callahan contact name, phone number, and email address for coordination associated with the open-loop and closed-loop chemical treatment systems so that all offerors and, ultimately, the successful contractor can coordinate from a common project basis.

Manager: Matthew Bofenkamp mbofenkamp@g-c.com

RFI #13 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 09 91 00/ Painting / pages 727 - 756

Section 09 91 00 includes general requirements for mechanical and electrical field painting and references Section 09 06 00 for finish colors; however, the contract documents reviewed do not appear to include a project-specific mechanical piping finish-paint schedule on the mechanical or architectural drawings identifying the required finish colors for exposed/uninsulated mechanical piping systems within the new chiller plant. Section 09 91 00 also includes an identity painting schedule, but identity painting and piping identification are understood to be separate from finish-paint color requirements for exposed piping.

Please clarify whether the Government intends for exposed/uninsulated mechanical piping to be finish painted in accordance with a project-specific color schedule by system. If such a schedule exists, please identify the applicable drawing or specification reference. If no project-specific schedule exists, please confirm the required basis for bidding and installation of finish painting for exposed/uninsulated mechanical piping in the new chiller plant, including whether offerors are to rely solely on the default requirements of Section 09 91 00 and Section 09 06 00. This clarification is requested so that all offerors apply a consistent interpretation of the painting scope in pricing and technical approach development.

Refer to specification 09 91 00 for requirements to paint interior exposed and exterior exposed piping and the associated colors specified in 09 91 00. Specifically, 1.1.A.9, 3.7.F, 3.8, 3.9. Intent of VA specifications is that all exposed piping is primed and painted.

RFI #14 -

Attachment 3: 668-23-101_Drawings_posted_4.22.2026 / Mechanical Sheet M-601 / Water Cooled Chiller Schedule mailto:mbofenkamp@g-c.com

The mechanical chiller schedule identifies the chiller manufacturer/model line as “YORK / DAIKIN / CARRIER / TRANE” with corresponding model references, rather than identifying a single basis-of-design manufacturer and model. Other portions of the mechanical schedules use a more conventional single basis-of-design format for scheduled equipment. Please clarify whether the Government/A/E developed the chiller plant design around one specific basis-of-design chiller manufacturer/model, or whether the listed manufacturers/models are intended to represent equal acceptable basis-of-design options. If the design was developed around one specific OEM/model for purposes of layout, service clearances, controls integration, piping arrangement, electrical characteristics, or structural loading, please identify that basis so that all offerors can evaluate the chiller scope on a consistent basis.

Basis of design chiller equipment is YORK YZ line.

RFI #15 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 13 05 41/ Seismic Restraint Requirements for Non-Structural Components / pages 775 – 782

Section 13 05 41 and the structural delegated-design notes appear to require the Contractor to provide delegated seismic restraint design for applicable non-structural components, including MEP anchorage and bracing, through a professional engineer licensed in the State of Washington.

At the same time, the contract drawings establish project design criteria, loading parameters, and locations of major equipment and systems. Please clarify whether the Government intends that the Designer of Record has already fully designed and prescribed any portion of the non-structural seismic restraint scope within the contract drawings, or whether offerors are to include in their bids all engineering, detailing, coordination, signed-and-sealed calculations, shop drawings, and installation costs necessary to complete the delegated seismic restraint design for applicable non-structural components required by the contract documents. This clarification is requested so that all offerors apply a consistent interpretation of the seismic restraint requirements in pricing and technical approach development.

Final attachments to structure (towers, chillers, piping, conduits) shall be designed by delegated to seismic restraint vendor and sealed and submitted for VA/AE review.

RFI #16 -

Attachment 3: 668-23-101_Drawings_posted_4.22.2026 / Mechanical Sheets M-201, M-202, M-301, and M-601

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications:

Section 22 05 33: Heat Tracing For Plumbing Piping / pages 849 - 856 Section 23 21 13: Hydronic Piping / pages 1085 – 1107

Mechanical drawings M-201, M-202, M-301, and M-601 indicate multiple required heat trace applications, including all new roof drains, all domestic cold water piping above roof, all basin sweeper piping above roof, and additional heat-traced piping/appurtenances associated with the roof-level cooling tower scope and freeze-protection requirements. Mechanical Schedule M-601 identifies the heat trace basis of design as Raychem, 277V, and approximately 3 kW. At the same time, the electrical drawings appear to show only one heat trace system connection from Panel HA, Circuit 31 serving the heat trace scope.

Section 22 05 33 requires the Contractor to submit detailed heat trace information including plans, sections, details, wiring diagrams, attachments, rated capacity, cable length, cable spacing, electrical power requirements, controls, enclosures, and accessories. Section 23 21 13 also requires submittal of the electric heat tracing systems serving the piping work. However, the contract drawings reviewed do not appear to provide a developed contract-level heat trace zoning, controller layout, sensor layout, or branch-circuit distribution scheme corresponding to the amount of required heat trace shown on the mechanical drawings.

Please clarify whether the Government intends the Contractor to furnish a complete vendor-designed heat trace system, including final zoning, controller locations, sensor locations, branch-circuiting, and electrical coordination, based on the performance requirements of the specifications. If that is the intent, please confirm whether the single heat trace connection shown on the electrical drawings is diagrammatic only and that the Contractor is to include all additional power distribution, controllers, and field coordination necessary to serve the full heat trace scope identified on the mechanical drawings. Alternatively, if the Government intends the heat trace circuiting and control arrangement to be limited to the single connection presently shown, please provide the design basis demonstrating how that arrangement is intended to serve the full required heat trace scope. This clarification is requested so all offerors bid the heat trace scope from a common basis.

As described in 22 05 33, contractor to submit detailed heat trace information from vendor of choice, where manufacturer-specific solutions may be proposed.

RFI #17 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 23 05 11: Common Work Results For HVAC / pages 934 – 969

The structural drawings provide general roof loading criteria, and Section 23 05 11 states that where hanger spacing does not correspond with joist or rib spacing, the Contractor is to provide structural steel channels designed by a structural engineer, secured directly to the joist/rib structure, and that the Contractor shall provide additional steel structural members, in addition to those shown, as required to support the imposed loads in accordance with the final approved layout of the equipment and piping. The structural notes similarly require the Contractor to coordinate hung MEP loads and provide additional support or distribution framing where required so the design loads are not exceeded.

Because this is a design-bid-build procurement, offerors request clarification of the Government’s intended bidding basis for the overhead and roof-level piping support scope. Please confirm whether the Designer of Record has already validated that the structural framing system, as designed, is adequate to support the intended overhead piping systems shown in the contract documents within the stated loading criteria, with only routine contractor hanger/support detailing required. Alternatively, if the Government intends for offerors to include material supplemental support/distribution framing, engineering, and coordination beyond routine hanger detailing, please confirm that bidders are to carry all such costs based on their own assumptions regarding the final coordinated piping layout. This clarification is requested so all offerors apply a consistent interpretation of the piping support responsibility in pricing and technical approach development.

The uniform load allowance for the structural roof framing is shown on S0.10, which includes hung MEP loading. The hung ceiling/lighting/MEP loading is indicated to be 5-psf at the main roof level. As noted in the project specifications, secondary support of hung MEP shall be the responsibility of the Contractor's licensed engineer. The Contractor/MEP engineer shall notify the SER if the referenced hung loading exceeds the documented loading allowance prior to proceeding with the work.

RFI #18 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 01 35 26: Safety Requirements, paragraphs 1.9A (page 81) and 1.9C (pages 81-82)

Section 01 35 26, paragraphs 1.9A and 1.9C, we understand the SSHO must be separate from the Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager. Please advise if the Alternate Safety Officer can be served by the Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager.

The alternate Safety Officer may be served by the Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager.

RFI #19 -

Attachment 2: Revision 1 - 100% Specifications/ Section 01 35 26: Safety Requirements, paragraph

1.16 / pages 88 – 89

Section 01 35 26, para 1.16, as this Project is not in the hospital or any areas serving veterans or patients, please advise if the Government can waive the requirement for Tuberculosis Screening.

This Requirement cannot be waived.

RFI #20 –

Attachment 3: 668-23-101_Drawings_posted_4.22.2026 / Architectural Sheet AS-100 / Scope of Work

Sheet AS-100 Scope of Work states: A Campus wide cooling calculation will be done with enough redundancy for future expansion. Designs will be provided within the construction funding constraints/limitations.” Please advise this is not in the Prime contractor’s scope of work.

This calculation was performed by the A/E and is not in the construction contractor’s scope of work.

RFI #21 –

Attachment 2: Revision 1 – 100% Specifications/ Section 01 00 00: General Requirements, paragraph 1.18 – Availability and Use of Utility Services / Pages 34 – 36

Section 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.18 requires the Contractor to provide temporary utility connections, install electrical meters, furnish monthly records of electrical usage, and pay for electricity used for cranes/hoists, welding devices, and electrical heating devices used for temporary heat, while indicating that electricity for all other uses is available at no cost. The same paragraph also provides that water is available at no cost, subject to the Contractor furnishing temporary water service and required backflow prevention. Offerors understand these provisions to apply to the project and are carrying temporary utility setup, metering, and the specified chargeable electrical usage accordingly.

However, Paragraph 1.18.G addresses Government-furnished fuel for boiler cleaning, boiler-burner setup, adjustment, and specified boiler tests, with Contractor responsibility for fuel required due to prolonged setup or improper design/operation. Because the project scope appears to be construction of a new chiller plant addition and cooling towers, rather than boiler installation or boiler replacement, offerors request confirmation whether Paragraph 1.18.G is applicable to this procurement. If it is not applicable, please confirm that bidders are not required to include any boiler-fuel-related cost exposure in their pricing. This clarification is requested so all offerors bid from a common basis.

Offerors are not responsible for inclusion of any boiler fuel related costs and will not be expected to provide any boiler fuel sources.

RFI #22 –

Specification Section 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.2 Specification Section 01 45 29, Paragraph 1.1

Specification Section 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.2(D) indicates that the Government may retain a testing agency, while Specification Section 01 45 29, Paragraph 1.1 states that the testing laboratory services are to be retained by the Contractor. Please confirm which party is responsible for retaining and paying for the testing laboratory services for this project.

Necessary laboratory services are the responsibility of the contractor.

RFI #23 –

Specification Section 01 45 00, Quality Control

Specification Section 01 45 00 appears to require the CQC System Manager to be a graduate of a construction management related program. Please confirm whether degrees in architecture or engineering will be considered acceptable in lieu of a construction management degree for the CQC System Manager position.

The CQC System Manager will be considered with a degree in architecture or engineering, with a degree in construction management preferred.

RFI #24 –

Specification Section 01 45 00, Quality Control

Specification Section 01 45 00 states that “The CQC System Manager is assigned as the CQC System Manager but has duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control.” Please confirm that the CQC System Manager may also serve as the Site Superintendent (dual-hatted) in accordance with this specification language.

The CQC system manager may not also serve as the project superintendent.

RFI #25 –

Specification Section 01 45 00, Quality Control, Paragraph C (Experience Matrix)

Specification Section 01 45 00, Paragraph C references an Experience Matrix identifying personnel with specialized skills to be included as part of the CQC organization.

Please confirm that personnel identified within the Experience Matrix are not required to be individually assigned to this project as dedicated members of the CQC staff, and that the Contractor may satisfy quality control requirements without assigning each listed specialized role as a separate position.

Persons identified in the experience matrix are not required to be individually assigned as dedicated members, the contractor may meet this requirement with multiple areas covered by one person, assuming the single person has the necessary skills.

RFI #26 –

Specification Sections 01 33 23, 01 45 00, and Contract Documents

The contract documents do not identify any requirements for Building Information Modeling (BIM), including but not limited to model development, coordination modeling, clash detection, BIM execution planning, or digital model deliverables.

Please confirm that BIM services are not required for this project. If BIM is required, please provide the applicable specifications, required level of development (LOD), coordination requirements, software platform requirements, and deliverable expectations.

Digital models are not required from the construction contractor, only tracked as-built conditions.

RFI #27 –

Specification Section 01 91 00, General Commissioning Requirements Specification Section 01 45 00, Quality Control

Specification Section 01 91 00 requires the Contractor to provide personnel responsible for commissioning activities. Please confirm whether the individual designated as the Contractor’s Commissioning Manager is required to be a separate individual from the CQC System Manager, or if these roles may be performed by the same individual.

The CQC System Manager may perform the role of commissioning manager.

RFI #28 –

Specification Section 01 32 16.15

Please confirm whether the project schedule is required to be cost-loaded and/or resource-loaded, or if a logic-driven CPM schedule without cost or resource loading will be acceptable.

Project schedule is required to be cost loaded only; resource loading is not required.

RFI #29 –

Specification Section 01 32 16.15

Please confirm whether the Contractor is required to provide a dedicated, full-time scheduler for this project, and clarify any minimum qualifications or certification requirements for the scheduler.

A dedicated scheduler is not required; project personnel must have the appropriate skill to meet the specification requirements.

RFI #30 –

Specification Section 01 32 16.15

Please confirm whether the project schedule is required to be developed and maintained in Primavera P6, and whether native P6 files are required to be submitted to the Government.

Primavera P6 is not required, native schedule file is required regardless of scheduling software.

Compatibility will be handled during the submittal process.

RFI #31 –

Specification Section 03 45 00, Fabricator and Erector Qualifications

Specification Section 03 45 00 requires the precast fabricator and erector to comply with PCI MNL 117 and PCI MNL 127.

Please confirm that the requirements for PCI MNL 117 and PCI MNL 127 may be removed from the project specifications, and that equivalent experience and qualifications demonstrating successful completion of similar precast concrete work will be considered acceptable in lieu of strict PCI certification requirements.

Specification requirements for PCI certification may not be waived.

RFI #32 –

Specification Section 03 45 00, Paragraph 1.3(E)

Specification Section 03 45 00, Paragraph 1.3(E) requires that a portion of a precast sample panel be intentionally damaged and subsequently repaired to demonstrate repair procedures.

Please confirm that this requirement is mandatory for this project. If required, please clarify the extent of damage to be demonstrated, acceptable repair methods, and whether the damaged and repaired panel will be used as part of the final accepted mockup for finish evaluation.

The sample panel to demonstrate repair procedures is required. The panel may be used as part of the final mockup at the contractor’s discretion.

RFI #33 –

Specification Section 07 08 00 Applicable Waterproofing Details and Sections

The contract documents require a modified bituminous sheet waterproofing system with multiple components. Please confirm that this system is required for this project given that there are no basement or below-grade occupied spaces requiring a fully redundant waterproofing system.

Since the adjacent building grade is not over the finish floor elevation, the use of a modified bituminous sheet waterproofing systems will not be required for this building addition.

RFI #34 –

Drawing AE-503, Detail 12

Detail 12 on Drawing AE-503 shows a water stop to be installed between the footing and precast wall, as well as between the precast wall and slab on grade.

Please confirm that installation of water stops at both of these locations is required for this project.

Since the adjacent building grade is not over the finish floor elevation, the use of water stops per detail 12 would be considered belt and suspenders. The VA may choose to remove the water stops as a cost saving measure.

RFI #35 –

Drawing AE-503, Detail 12 Civil Drawings

Detail 12 on Drawing AE-503 shows perforated pipe installed adjacent to the concrete footing, with impervious fill below and gravel fill above and around the pipe. The civil drawings do not indicate perforated pipe around the perimeter of the building.

Please confirm whether perforated pipe and associated fill materials are required at the building perimeter. If required, please provide the limits of extent, invert elevations, and tie-in locations.

Additionally, please provide the applicable specifications for the perforated pipe and fill materials.

Per the Geotechnical report, Page 9, General, Paragraph 2, “foundation drains are not warranted because the site is underlain by relatively free-draining sandy soil.” Due to this, please disregard the perforated pipe in the detail.

RFI #36 –

Drawing AE-503, Detail 12 Specification Section 31 20 00, Paragraph 3.5(F)

Detail 12 on Drawing AE-503 indicates a 4-inch gravel course beneath the slab-on-grade.

Specification Section 31 20 00, Paragraph 3.5(F) states that gravel fill under concrete slabs on grade is to be 6 inches unless otherwise shown.

Please confirm that the 4-inch gravel course shown in Detail 12 on Drawing AE-503 is the required condition at this location.

Please provide 6 inches of gravel per the spec section 31 20 00.

RFI #37 -

Specification Section 10 14 00, Signage Contract Drawings

Specification Section 10 14 00 includes requirements for signage; however, a signage plan is not identified in the contract drawings.

Please provide the signage plan identifying required sign types, quantities, locations, and mounting requirements. If a signage plan is not to be provided, please confirm the extent of signage required for this project.

No project specific signage is required, only code required signage such as exit signs and fire extinguisher labels and equipment labels identified in the specific specification sections.

RFI #38 -

Drawing AE-200, Notes 2 and 10 HVAC Drawings Drawing EP-000, Note 6

Notes 2 and 10 on Drawing AE-200 indicate that electrical and HVAC equipment is to be installed on 6-inch-thick concrete equipment pads. HVAC drawings for water-cooled chillers also indicate 6-inch-thick pads, while the suction pump pad and Note 6 on Drawing EP-000 indicate equipment pads should be 4 inches thick.

Please confirm the required thickness for concrete equipment pads for all equipment types, including whether different pad thicknesses are required for specific equipment.

Please provide 6-inch-thick equipment pads.

RFI #39 -

Drawing S5.01, Detail 6A Contract Drawings

Detail 6A on Drawing S5.01 provides requirements for housekeeping/mechanical pad ramps. The contract drawings do not clearly identify which equipment pads require ramps.

Please confirm which equipment pads are required to include ramps and identify the applicable locations.

Ramps are not required per this scope of work. Please disregard the generic ramp detail.

RFI #40 -

Specification Section 10 44 13, Fire Extinguisher Cabinets Contract Drawings

Specification Section 10 44 13 includes requirements for fire extinguishers and/or fire extinguisher cabinets; however, the contract drawings do not identify required fire extinguisher or cabinet locations.

Please provide the required fire extinguisher and fire extinguisher cabinet locations, quantities, types, and mounting requirements.

Provide (3) surface mounted stainless steel fire extinguisher cabinets (10 lb). Install one FEC on each side of the Chiller Plant room #16 and one in the office. Final locations shall be confirmed by the COR during construction.

RFI #41 -

Architectural Drawings, General Notes Contract Documents

Architectural notes indicate that the new roof guardrail is to be painted. Please confirm whether the guardrail is to be field painted or shop-applied powder-coated. Additionally, please confirm the required color and finish.

Shop primed and painted is architecturally acceptable. The VA shall provide the desired color.

RFI #42 -

Architectural Drawings Specification Section 09 91 00, Painting, Paragraph 1.13

The drawings indicate that the guardrail and door frames are to be painted. Specification Section 09 91 00 includes Paragraph 1.13, which states: “Painting of any surface not specifically mentioned to be painted herein or on construction documents, but for which painting is obviously necessary to complete the job, or work which comes within the intent of these specifications, is to be included as though specified.”

Please confirm the full extent of surfaces required to be painted for this project, including whether items not specifically identified on the drawings are to be included under this specification.

Additionally, please confirm whether the intent is to limit painting scope only to items specifically identified in the contract documents.

The construction drawings identify the items that will require field prime and paint. All other items shall be factor finished.

RFI #43 -

Can Draft Proposal be reviewed?

The Government does not review draft proposals and will only evaluate proposals formally submitted in accordance with the solicitation instructions and by the date and time specified in the solicitation. Offerors are responsible for ensuring their final proposals comply with all requirements set forth in the solicitation.

RFI #44 –

We’d like to submit a bid for this project as a subcontractor. Would you be able to share a list of general contractors / plan holders we can bid to, or direct me to someone who might have that info?

The information is available in the issued amendment 0001 and the attachments on SAM.gov, which includes the site visit sign-in sheet.

RFI #45 -

The pre-bid site visit was held on April 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM PDT. Solicitation 36C26026R0003 was posted on April 27, 2026, the same date as the site visit, which constrained the ability of out-of-region offerors to attend. Will the Contracting Office consider scheduling an additional site visit, a virtual walkthrough, or providing a comprehensive site photo / video package to support out-of-region offerors who were unable to attend the formal site visit? If not, will the Contracting Office accept written narratives in Volume 1 Factor 1 Technical Approach that acknowledge the missed site visit and rely on the drawings, specifications, and publicly available campus information?

The solicitation was originally issued on 4/20 and the site visit was conducted on 4/27. The Government will not schedule an additional on-site visit, virtual walkthrough, or develop a supplemental photo/video package for this procurement. Offerors who did not attend the site visit held on 4/27 must rely on the solicitation documents, including drawings and specifications, and any information made publicly available through the posting.

RFI #46 -

Section 2.5 (FAR 52.228-1) states the bid guarantee shall be 20 percent of the bid price or $2,000,000, whichever is less. Section L Volume 2 Section 6 requires the bid bond per FAR 52.228-1 on Standard Form 24. Will the Government please confirm that for this solicitation the bid bond cap is $2,000,000 (consistent with the Section 2.5 text), and that an SBA Bond Guarantee Program-issued bond is acceptable in lieu of a standalone surety bond?

For this solicitation, the bid guarantee amount is as stated in Section 2.5: 20 percent of the bid price or 2,000,000 dollars, whichever is less.

RFI #47 -

Will the Government please confirm that the Performance Bond and Payment Bond penal sums under FAR 52.228-15 will be 100 percent of contract price as is standard for VA construction, or whether a different penal sum has been specified in the solicitation that we may have missed?

For this solicitation, the required penal sums for both the Performance Bond and Payment Bond will be 100 percent of the original contract price at the time of award, consistent with FAR 52.228-15.

RFI #48 -

VAAR 852.204-72 requires Personnel Vetting and Credentialing for contractor personnel with physical or logical access to VA facilities. Will the Government please confirm the typical PIV credentialing lead time for a contractor / subcontractor employee from background investigation submission to PIV card issuance, and whether offerors should plan workforce mobilization timing accordingly to avoid project delays?

The Government cannot guarantee a specific number of days for completion of personnel vetting and PIV credentialing, as processing times vary. Contractor /Subcontractor are required to follow VA’s vetting and PIV processes and to coordinate closely with the COR and facility security/identity management offices.

RFI #49 -

Solicitation Attachment 4 provides Spokane County Wage Rates dated 1/23/2026. Will the Government please confirm whether this is a Davis-Bacon General Wage Determination, the specific WD number, and whether the wage determination applies to the entire scope or only certain construction trades?

The wage rates in Solicitation Attachment 4 are the applicable Davis-Bacon Act general wage determination for Spokane County for this project, and they apply to all covered laborers and mechanics performing work within the contract scope in accordance with RFO 52.222-6 Construction Wage Rate Requirements.

RFI #50 -

Section L Volume 2 Section 4 requires SBA SDVOSB verification "current as of the proposal submission date" of May 21, 2026. Will the Government please confirm that "current" means active and unexpired in the SBA VetCert / VA CVE registry on or before May 21, 2026, and that a copy of the VetCert / CVE verification letter included with the proposal is sufficient documentation?

Offerors must be verified through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) https://search.certifications.sba.gov/ as a certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) under NAICS code 236220. Verification and certification through SBA must be current as of the proposal submission date and remain eligible at the time of award.

RFI #51 -

Section L allows "submissions exceeding 10MB shall be broken into multiple e-mails." Will the Government please confirm the preferred convention for splitting (e.g., "Email 1 of N" naming, time-https://search.certifications.sba.gov/ stamp ordering, or other), and whether all multi-email submissions must arrive prior to the May 21, 2026, 12:00 PM PDT deadline?

The Government does not prescribe a single mandatory naming convention but strongly prefers that offerors clearly label multi email submissions in the subject line as “Email 1 of N,” “Email 2 of N,” etc., and keep volumes grouped logically. All parts of any multi email submission must be received in the designated inbox no later than May 21, 2026, 12:00 PM PDT; any email (or portion of the proposal) received after that time will be treated as a late submission in accordance with the solicitation and applicable regulations.

RFI #52 -

Solicitation/ Solicitation# 36C26026R0003 / Section 4.7 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998) / FAR 52.229-3 /page 51 :

Because this project extends beyond one calendar year, offerors request confirmation of the intended bidding basis for Washington state and local taxes. The solicitation incorporates FAR 52.229-3, Federal, State, and Local Taxes. Please confirm that offerors are to include all applicable Washington state and local taxes in their pricing based on rates in effect on the contract date, and further confirm whether any subsequent changes in Washington state or local tax rates during contract performance are to be treated as contractor risk absent another express contract provision to the contrary. This clarification is requested so all offerors bid from a common basis.

Consistent with FAR 52.229-3, offerors must include all applicable Washington State and local taxes in their proposed prices, using the tax rates in effect as of the contract date, as part of “all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes and duties” in paragraph (a) and (b)(1) of the clause.

RFI #53 -

SOW §2.1 states cooling towers will be “located on the roof adjacent to building 44 boiler plant.”

Will the cooling towers be installed on the roof of the new 4000 GSF chiller plant building or on the roof of the existing Building 44? Please clarify the exact mounting location.

Cooling towers will be located as shown by design drawings.

RFI #54 -

Please provide the structural loading requirements (dead load, live load, wind, seismic, and vibration) for the roof that will support the new cooling towers.

Final attachments to structure (towers, chillers, piping, conduits) shall be designed by delegated to seismic restraint vendor and sealed and submitted for VA/AE review.

RFI #55 -

What are the exact vibration isolation and noise control requirements for the roof-mounted cooling towers (per Section 23 65 00 and Division 01)?

Final attachments to structure (towers, chillers, piping, conduits) shall be designed by delegated to seismic restraint vendor and sealed and submitted for VA/AE review.

RFI #56 -

Are the cooling towers required to be mounted on structural steel supports, curbs, or directly on the roof deck? Please provide details or drawing references.

Final attachments to structure (towers, chillers, piping, conduits) shall be designed by delegated to seismic restraint vendor and sealed and submitted for VA/AE review.

RFI #57 -

Are there manufacturer and model preferences (or requirements) for the three new cooling towers? If so, can you please let us know which Mfg is prefered or required?

The basis of design is shown on sheet M-601, or equal substitutions will be considered.

RFI #58 -

Are there any specific requirements for cooling tower basin heaters, makeup water, blowdown, or drainage systems?

See sheet M-601 for basis of design models.

RFI #59 -

Will the cooling towers be open-circuit or closed-circuit (fluid cooler) type?

See basis of design sheet M-601.

RFI #60 -

What are the exact water treatment requirements for the cooling tower loop (Section 23 25 00)?

Water treatment requirements are provided by Specification section 23 25 00. “Exact” requirements will depend on the submitted and approved system.

RFI #61 -

SOW §2.2 requires a qualified manufacturer’s representative for start-up, testing, and TAB of the chillers and cooling towers. Is Factory Witness Testing required for the cooling towers?

Factory Witness Testing is not required.

RFI #62 -

Please clarify the Test and Balance (TAB) scope specifically for the cooling towers and associated condenser water system.

Test and balance to confirm function as specified by drawing.

RFI #63 -

Are seismic restraints required for the cooling towers and associated piping (per Section 13 05 41)?

Final attachments to structure (towers, chillers, piping, conduits) shall be designed by delegated to seismic restraint vendor and sealed and submitted for VA/AE review.

RFI #64 -

Will the VA provide as-built drawings of the existing roof structure and any existing roof penetrations near Building 44?

The building 44 roof has a limited scope and existing structure review is not necessary. See AE-402 detail 2 for clarification.

RFI #65 -

What are the clearance, access, and maintenance platform requirements around the new cooling towers?

See sheet S0.20 for isometric of catwalk.

RFI #66 -

SOW §2.5 requires balancing of the three chillers and associated cooling towers. Will this balancing include flow balancing of the condenser water loops?

Balancing of the entire newly installed system will be required.

RFI #67 -

Are there any sound level limitations or sound attenuation requirements for the cooling towers due to proximity to occupied hospital areas?

Noise creation has been analyzed during design, basis of design towers have allowable noise level.

RFI #68 -

What are the exact BMS integration requirements for the new cooling towers (controls, monitoring points, sequences of operation)?

See control points on sheet M-801.

RFI #69 -

Will temporary cooling or bypass provisions be required during cooling tower installation and tie-in to maintain hospital operations?

The existing chiller plant will remain online until the new chiller plant is fully operational.

Therefore temporary cooling will no be necessary.

RFI #70 -

Is a crane or helicopter lift anticipated/allowed for setting the cooling towers on the roof?

Either may be approved during the submittal process with approval of the lifting plan per specification requirements.

RFI #71 -

Please confirm the required warranty period and start-up/commissioning services to be provided by the cooling tower manufacturer.

Required warranty periods are listed in each equipment specification, if a specific warranty is not listed in the specification section see warranty period for construction in specification section 01 00 00 paragraph 1.14. Start up to be by the cooling tower manufacturer per 23 65 00 Section 3.4.

RFI #72 -

Please clarify the required ICRA classification and containment requirements for all work in the occupied medical center, especially roof work adjacent to the existing boiler plant.

The existing boiler plant is self-contained. ICRA will only be required when making penetrations into the existing building.

RFI #73 -

Will the Contractor be required to maintain full operation of the existing chilled water loop and boiler plant during construction of the new chiller plant and cooling towers?

The facility will maintain operation of the existing plants and the contractor must coordinate outages as required to ensure existing plants maintain operations.

RFI #74 -

Please provide clarification on the exact sequence and phasing of the chilled water loop modifications and tie-ins to maintain continuous operation.

Exact phasing to be determined at time of tie in. Generally, the loop supply to the existing connections will be isolated to allow tie in. Once the new plant is ready to supply the loop, the existing plant will be shut down and isolated and the new plant used to supply the loop.

RFI #75 -

Will the VA provide a current asbestos, lead, and hazardous materials survey for all areas of demolition and new construction? If not, is the Contractor responsible for testing and abatement?

The project is a new build, no existing lead/asbestos is present.

RFI #76 -

Please confirm the foundation and structural requirements for the new 4000 GSF chiller plant building, including any geotechnical/soil report information.

Foundation details are provided by the drawing documents.

RFI #77 -

Please clarify responsibility for the new chillers, pumps, cooling towers, and associated equipment (owner-furnished vs. contractor-furnished).

All equipment is furnished by the contractor. This project contains no owner furnished materials.

RFI #78 -

What are the exact requirements for roof penetrations, structural support, and waterproofing for the new cooling towers located on the roof adjacent to Bldg. 44?

These requirements are given by the provided specifications and drawing set.

RFI #79 -

Please clarify the exact locations, sizes, and shutdown procedures for all new electrical connections (normal power and emergency power) from the existing loop.

Electrical connections locations shown sheet ES-101. Sizes shown sheet EP-602. Isolation procedure is opening both upstream and downstream switches to isolate the portion of the loop where connection occurs. This applies to both normal and emergency loops.

RFI #80 -

Are there any planned utility outages or shutdown windows already scheduled by the VA, or must the Contractor coordinate all shutdowns?

Contractor is responsible for coordination of all shutdowns required to perform this work.

RFI #81 -

Will the VA or a third-party CxA manage overall commissioning, or is the Contractor responsible for full commissioning, testing, balancing (TAB), and integration of the new chiller plant and

BMS?

Third party commissioning is provided by the assigned A/E firm, when specification section call for CxA. Contractor is responsible for pre-commissioning and assurance that all systems are fully functional prior to final commissioning witnessed by commissioning agent.

RFI #82 -

Please confirm the…