Attachment 28 - RFI and Responses 687-23-101.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 35 KB Posted
- Attached to
- 687-23-101 CON Repair Exterior Features Federal contract opportunity
- Solicitation number
- 36C26026R0033
About this file
This file is a Request for Information (RFI) and Responses document containing 150 questions and answers related to a federal construction solicitation (36C26026R0033) for repair of exterior features at 25 buildings at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility in Walla Walla, Washington. The document addresses contractor inquiries about project scope, specifications, drawings, and contract administration requirements.
Key clarifications provided include: the Site Superintendent may also serve as the Contractor Quality Control (CQC) Manager if qualifications are met, but the Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) must be a separate, dedicated full-time position with no other duties; VA will remove only specified PTAC units while the contractor removes all others; EIFS exterior finish systems per Specification 07 24 00 are required; roofing scope includes full tear-off to deck; no mockups are required; hazardous material survey reports will be provided by the VA (covering asbestos, lead-based paint, and mold); contractors are responsible for quantity take-offs from contract documents; work may be performed on multiple buildings simultaneously with VA approval and phasing negotiation; the Site Superintendent can work daytime hours on certain unoccupied buildings while after-hours work applies to occupied buildings; the applicable Davis-Bacon wage determination will be the most current posting on SAM.gov at time of award; certified weekly payroll submission is required; performance and payment bonds are required; no liquidated damages apply; weather delays may be excusable on a case-by-case basis; and all changes must be issued in writing by the Contracting Officer. The proposal due date was extended to March 9, 2026, at 8:00 AM per Amendment 0007, and the procurement is being conducted as a Best Value Tradeoff award.
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VA to Respond
| # | CONTRACTOR QUESTION | VA RESPONSE | |
| 1 | Key Personnel Qualifications lists a Site Superintendent, a CQC System Manager and a SSHO Safety and Health Officer. Can the Site Superintendent also perform the duties of the CQC System Manager if the qualifications for the CQC System Manager can be met? Please advise. (Spec Vol 1, Para 1.2) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 2 | Drawing 063-A-500 (Typical of all buildings) indicates that the existing through wall AC Units are being removed by the VA. Drawing T7-A-500 indicates that the Through-Wall AC Unit is to be Removed and the Wall Patched. Will the VA be removing this Unit as all of the other Units removed by the Owner, on this Project? (Drawing 063-A-500 Example & T7-A-500) | Seth, Does the VA truly wish to perform any of this work? | |
| 3 | The Drawing Title Block references "Historically Contributing". Are there any provisions in the Bid Documents related to any Historical Building permitting, or special construction instructions related to Historical Preservation that are applicable? (Drawing 048-A-100) | No, the contractor will not be required to complete or acquire any permits or perform any special inspections relating to Historic provisions. | |
| 4 | This Drawing references Helical Piers to be installed at Buildings 049 & 99 (Examples) on this Project. Foundation Plan Note 3 indicates that these are to be Designed by Others. Is the design along with the placement of these Helical Piers to be included in the Quotation for this Project? (Drawing 49-SB-100) | A depth of the helical piers are dependent on the design of the exact piers used. The load capacity is listed on the structural drawings so the contractors should be able to get bids from pier contractors. | |
| 5 | This Paragraph lists out which Buildings have normal working hours and after hours time periods. Can work be performed on more than one building at a time? Please advise. (Spec 01 00 00.11 Para 3.1) | YES, VA TO CONFIRM | 1 |
| 6 | Exterior Finish Systems (EIFS) Specifications are listed in the Bid Document Specifications, based on "Dryvit" (EIFS). Aforementioned Drawing has notes referring to the existing Finish System being "Stucco". Believe that the exterior of this Building has Stucco, and not EIFS as specified. Please verify that EIFS materials are to be utilized for the resurfacing. Also please advise if EIFS reinforcing mesh is to be utilized only at locations where crack patchwork is being conducted, or placed over the entire building exterior where the existing Stucco is applied? (Drawing T1-T2-A-202 and Spec 07 24 00) | Specification Section 07 24 00 is a Direct Exterior Finish System. This is the intended product and should be installed as detailed in the referenced specification section. | |
| 7 | Note 22R indicates the removal of the existing roof with a new TPO Roof. Does this also include the existing roof insulation removal and replacement underneath th roof ing to be removed? (Drawing 113-A-100) | Removal and replacement of roof insulation is not indicated | |
| 8 | Building 120 Elevation D1 indicates that there are three (3) Sectional Motorized Overhead Doors, key actuated, that are to be removed and replaced. Cannot find any Specifications for these. Please provide. (Drawing 120-A-100, Key Note 52R) | Doors to be replaced with new doors similar to existing. | |
| 9 | Indicates a 1" Dia. Conduit and Wire, from the New Exterior Electric Generator to existing Panels in Building OM1. Are there any additional Record Drawings available, of Building OM1 to utilize for quoting the installation of the new Conduit and Wire through this Building (Ceilings, Floor, Walls, etc.)? (Drawing G-002, Drawing ES 101, Drawing 3-601, Detail 3) | This question does not reference any drawings included in this project. | |
| 10 | Work on Buildings 48, 49, 68, 69, 74, 77, 80, 81,82, 135, 140, 143, 145, T-1 and T-2 to be performed AFTER Normal Business Hours. Buildings 31, 41, 63, 65, 66, 75, 76, 78, and T-7 are unoccupied and work can be performed during normal business hours. Building 47 is missing from these lists. (Spec 01 00 00.11, PP 11 & 12) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 11 | Image reference B3,B6 indicates brick pointing scope of work, The extent of exact area of work is not clearly identified. Please clarify. (Drawing Ref 107-A500) | Contractor to bid extents visible in referenced photos. Details and specifications indicate what constitutes a deteriorated joint and procedure for correcting. Photos indicate extents. | |
| 12 | Indicates Lead paint and asbestos discovery around windows. Documents refer to a Report. Is there additional information regarding the extent and discovery of asbestos? (Building 107-A-100) | Report is available and will be provided | |
| 13 | Scope calls for cleaning of bricks for exterior and interior parts of the building. Extent of work required at internal walls is not clear, Image E8 and F8 are only two supporting pictures for area. Does the scope call for complete internal cleaning? (Drawing 109-A-500) | No interior work required. | |
| 14 | Specifications Section 08 71 00 Door Hardware are not found in the Bid Documents. Please provide. (Spec 08 71 00) | Exterior door at building 105 with hardware set 01 is the only door in scope. Set and specification will be provided. | |
| 15 | Scope 22R calls for replacement of roof with TPO membrane. Are there any additional drawings providing information on existing roof assembly? (Drawing 135-A-100) | No drawings of the existing roof assembly are available | |
| 16 | Keynote 76R indicates to replace existing slate roof. Does this include to replace roof underlayments including decking, vapor barrier etc? Please clarify. (Drawing 047-A-100) | YES. Slate roof specifications for full system. | |
| 17 | Keynote 6D requires repointing of damaged brick. Drawings do not provide the complete area/extent of work to be performed. Is the repointing to be performed limited to the area where the face brick is different, or all of the face brick for the entire building? Also, is there a defect register for cross verification of the area(s) to be repointed? (Drawing 047-A200) | Repointing required only where visibly damaged in photo. | |
| No defect registry available. | |||
| 18 | Keynote 72R indicates to paint entire building. Does it mean strictly the exterior surfaces, or is this to include interior ceilings, walls and decks as well? (Drawing 048-A100, 049-A100) | Exterior only | |
| 19 | Key Note 54 R Indicates 6" Block wall. The sectional Detail 99-SB/SB100 shows 8" Block wall. Please advise the thickness of the block wall? (Drawing 99-SB100) | 8” per Detail. | |
| 20 | Spec 01 00 00 Section 1.3A for Buildings 110,112 and 113 lists the repointing of the face brick. Drawings Keynote 27R indicates the cleaning and sealing of the existing face brick and some hole filling, however does not indicate any repointing. Please advise. (Buildings 110, 112 and 113) | No repointing indicated for B110, 112 or 113 | |
| 21 | Keynote 22R denotes a new TPO membrane roof to be installed. Is the replacement roof insulation flat or tapered? Please advise. (Building 113 – A100) | Existing deck is sloped. No replacement insulation is indicated | |
| 22 | Please specify the designated staging area for the project. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 23 | Paragraph 3.1 indicates which buildings will be occupied during the day (all work performed during off-hours) and which ones are unoccupied (work can be performed during the day). Building 47 has been omitted from these lists. Please advise as to the time perion in which work can be performed? (Spec Section 01 00 00.11) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 24 | Attachment 1 - SOW, Scope paragraph; Specs Vol. 1, Section 02 82 11 (Traditional Asbestos Abatement). | Reports are available and will be provided | |
| Several buildings indicate potential ACM in exterior siding, roofing underlayment, and window glazing/caulking. Are government-provided pre-abatement hazardous material survey reports (beyond referenced specs) available for bidder review? If not, is the contractor required to perform additional destructive sampling during mobilization at no additional cost? | |||
| 25 | Drawings, various sheets; SOW "Scope". The project includes 25 buildings with varying conditions. Can the VA provide a building-by-building scope summary or matrix indicating which specific repairs (e.g., full roof replacement, siding removal, window replacement, foundation tuckpointing) apply to each building? | No, scope of work for each building indicated in drawings. | |
| 26 | Specs Section 01 35 26 SOW "Work Hours" and "Performance Monitoring". | VA to Respond | 1 |
| Due to active hospital operations, please confirm any required phasing sequence between buildings (e.g., priority order, no simultaneous work in adjacent patient-care areas) and provide current restricted access zones or a site access map? | |||
| 27 | FAR 52.225-9 / 52.225-11; Specs Vol. 2, Sections 07 (Roofing), 08 (Windows/Doors). | VA to Respond | 1 |
| For roofing membranes, insulated glazing units, and exterior cladding materials, are domestic-only sources strictly required, or do trade agreement exceptions apply? What specific documentation is needed for any proposed non-domestic material waiver? | |||
| 28 | Drawings; Specs Vol. 2, Section 07 31 13 (Asphalt Shingles) vs. Section 07 62 00 (Sheet Metal Flashing). Drawing detail shows continuous ice and water shield under shingles, while spec paragraph requires self-adhering membrane only at valleys/eaves. Which detail governs? | 07 31 13 requirements and details are consistent in showing self adhered membrane at valleys eaves etc. | |
| 07 62 00 does not exist. 07 60 00 Flashing and Sheet metal applies only to formed sheet metal flashing | |||
| 29 | Attachment 9 – Wage Determination dated 1.23.2026; FAR 52.222-6. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| The WD lists multiple classifications (e.g., Roofer, Laborer, Asbestos Worker). Please confirm if separate rates apply per trade across all 25 buildings or if one WD covers the entire project? | |||
| 30 | VAAR 852.219-75 (Limitations on Subcontracting); Attachment 6 – Limitations on Subcontracting. For calculating the SDVOSB-required percentage of work, how should material costs be treated (included or excluded from the calculation)? Are specialty trades like asbestos abatement considered exempt? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 31 | Reference: Specs Section 01 32 16.15 (Project Schedule); SOW Period of Performance (365 days). Will the government grant excusable delays for inclement weather typical in Walla Walla winters affecting exterior work? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 32 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 02 83 33.13 (Lead-Based Paint Removal); Section 01 74 19 (Construction Waste Management). Please confirm disposal requirements for lead-contaminated debris (e.g., specific landfill approvals, manifests). Is on-site temporary storage of hazardous waste permitted? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 33 | Specs Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control); SOW "Inspection and Acceptance Criteria". | VA to Respond | 1 |
| For final acceptance of roofing and window installations, is a third-party inspection/report required, or is contractor QC sufficient with COR walkthrough? | |||
| 34 | Specs Vol. 2, Section 08 80 00 (Glazing) or similar window section. | Windows are as scheduled on sheet G-500 | |
| Are replacement windows required to match existing historic appearance (e.g., true divided lite muntins), or are simulated divided lite acceptable if performance criteria are met? | |||
| 35 | SOW "Deliverables"; Specs Section 01 78 23 (Operation and Maintenance Data). | VA to Respond | 1 |
| For warranted items (roofing, windows), must manufacturer warranties name the VA directly as beneficiary, or is assignment from contractor sufficient? | |||
| 36 | Specs Section 01 57 19 (Temporary Environmental Controls); Section 01 35 26 (Safety). Are temporary enclosures/heat required for exterior work during winter months to protect new materials and allow curing? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 37 | SOW "Place of Performance" Please provide staging/parking area designations for contractor equipment and materials across the 25-building campus to minimize disruption. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 38 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 04 20 00 (Unit Masonry). For tuckpointing and repointing, what mortar color matching standard applies (e.g., provide samples to COR for approval prior to work)? | Provide samples to match existing for selection prior to commencing work | |
| 39 | Reference: FAR 52.236-2 (Differing Site Conditions). If unforeseen buried utilities or hazardous materials are encountered, what notification process and compensation mechanism applies? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 40 | Specs Vol. 2, Section 07 54 19 (Thermoplastic Membrane Roofing) or similar. | Removal of existing roof membrane required | |
| For roof replacements, is full tear-off required, or is recover/over-roofing permitted if existing substrate meets criteria? | |||
| 41 | SOW "Project Meetings"; Specs Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control). Are weekly QC meetings separate from the general progress meetings, or can they be combined if agenda covers both? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 42 | Attachment 8 – Contractor Rules of Behavior. Please clarify badge/access requirements for subcontractor personnel (e.g., background checks, PIV cards) and timeline for processing. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 43 | Specs Section 01 81 13 (Sustainable Construction Requirements). What specific sustainable credits or goals (e.g., recycled content, low-VOC materials) are mandatory vs. encouraged for this project? | None – VA to confirm | 1 |
| 44 | SOW "Mechanical and electrical work required to repair exterior features". For exterior light fixtures or power feeds affected by siding/roof work, is relocation or replacement in scope, or only temporary protection? | Remove and reinstall or protect in place as feasible based on work taking place. | |
| 45 | Does any hard water staining on the brick need to be removed? | Yes, where cleaning is specified | |
| 46 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 04 05 31 (Masonry Tuck Pointing). Foundation cracks are noted on several buildings. What is the acceptable crack width threshold for tuckpointing vs. requiring epoxy injection or other structural repair? | Forwarded to Structural to Respond | |
| 47 | 01 45 29 - Testing Laboratory Services: Is it just the soils, concrete, and masonry testing that is being asked for? I didn't see any specific mention in the specifications for QA inspections on the building envelope features (roofing, siding, windows, etc.). Considering this is for the VA, I'd expect they would want some level of inspection for the envelope repairs/replacements, but don't see where this is mentioned. Could you clarify? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 48 | Can the Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) and Site Superintendent roles be performed by the same individual (double-hatting), provided that person meets all qualification and experience requirements for both positions (e.g., minimum five years as a Construction Site Superintendent, OSHA 30-hour training, 40-hour EM 385-1-1 training, etc.)? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 49 | If double-hatting is not permitted by default: Please confirm whether the SSHO must be maintained as a separate, dedicated, full-time on-site position independent from the Site Superintendent and other supervisory roles to ensure no conflict of interest in safety oversight, particularly given the project’s hazards (asbestos abatement per Section 02 82 11, lead-based paint removal per Section 02 83 33.13, roofing at heights, and work on an active medical campus). | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 50 | Would triple-hatting (e.g., one individual serving as Project Manager, Site Superintendent, and SSHO simultaneously) be allowable only with prior written approval from the Contracting Officer or COR, and only if the individual fully satisfies the qualification requirements for each role without compromising dedicated safety responsibilities? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 51 | Please confirm that this procurement is being conducted as a Best Value Tradeoff, and not as Lowest Price Technically Acceptable. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 52 | Will the Government allow clarifications after proposal submission to address minor administrative issues? Is it expected applicant submit list of bid qualifications at time of submission. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 53 | Does the applicant and/or the Prime Sub need to be licensed GC in the State of Washington? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 54 | Does the CQC have to be a “graduate” of a program and does that education count towards the 5 years of experience? What level of “graduate” do they need to be? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 55 | Does OSHA 30 meet the SSHO requirement for safety certification? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 56 | How many hours per week are the CQC and SSHO actively on site? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 57 | Numerous drawings reference “field verify existing conditions.” Please confirm how concealed or unforeseen conditions (e.g., deteriorated framing, undocumented utilities) will be addressed contractually. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 58 | Have hazardous materials surveys (asbestos, lead-based paint, mold) been completed for all affected buildings, and will reports be issued by amendment? | Yes, reports will be provided | |
| 59 | Please identify any Owner-Furnished or Government-Furnished Equipment (OFE/GFE) associated with this project. | None | |
| 60 | Please confirm the complete list of buildings included in this contract and whether all buildings shown in the drawing index are within scope. | The drawings included in the bid package detail the full scope of work. | |
| 61 | May work across buildings be sequenced at the Contractor’s discretion (with VA approval), or is concurrent work required? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 62 | Are any of the buildings considered historically contributing, and if so, are additional approvals required for exterior modifications? | No additional approvals are required to be procured by the contractor. | |
| 63 | Will work occur in occupied facilities, and what operational restrictions should bidders assume? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 64 | What background checks, badging, or credentialing are required for contractor personnel? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 65 | What is the anticipated processing time for badging and site access? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 66 | Are escorts required for workers, deliveries, or inspections? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 67 | Are there restrictions on work hours, noise, vibration, or utility shutdowns? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 68 | Will temporary protection plans or lay down areas need to be approved or coordinated with the VA? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 69 | Drawings indicate temporary removal and reinstallation of PTAC units and associated systems. Please confirm whether temporary heating and cooling or power is included in the base scope. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 70 | Please clarify responsibility for refrigerant recovery, storage, disposal, and recharge. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 71 | Will the VA provide approved shutdown windows for mechanical and electrical outages? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 72 | Are after-hours shutdowns required, and if so, are they compensable? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 73 | Please confirm whether masonry repair quantities shown on the drawings are approximate and subject to adjustment if additional deterioration is discovered. | Drawings indicate expected scope of repair. | |
| 74 | Please clarify mockup requirements, including quantity, approval duration, and whether mockups remain in place or are removed. | No Mockups required | |
| 75 | Please confirm whether roofing scope includes full tear-off to deck in all indicated areas. | Full tear off to deck is expected | |
| 76 | Please confirm whether the Site Superintendent and/or PM can also serve as the Contractor Quality Control (CQC) Manager and Safety and Health Officer (SSHO). | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 77 | Is a written CQC Plan required prior to Notice to Proceed? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 78 | What is the anticipated submittal and RFI review duration, and how will schedule impacts be addressed if reviews exceed that duration? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 79 | Are weather delays considered excusable under this contract? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 80 | Are liquidated damages applicable, and if so, what is the daily rate? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 81 | How will VA-directed phasing changes or access restrictions be handled with respect to time extensions? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 82 | Please confirm what expected mobilization and start date is relative to the notice to proceed. Will there be any flexibility on that start date? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 83 | Are verbal change directives permitted, or must all changes be issued in writing? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 84 | What is the typical VA change order review and approval timeline? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 85 | Please identify all closeout deliverables, including as-builts, O&M manuals, warranties, and training. | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 86 | Are digital as-builts required? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 87 | Will final payment be withheld pending full closeout approval? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 88 | Referencing Keynote 36D as an example for lead paint locations for remediation. Is this note specific only to locations on the various buildings to where lead paint is noted to exist or are all locations with existing paint regarding as containing lead? Please clarify. (Drawing 107-A-100) | Hazardous material survey will be provided. Not all paint is to be regarded as containing LEAD. | |
| 89 | Referencing Keynote 36D as an example for lead paint locations for removal or remediation. This Note mentions a Report to refer to. Cannot find this Report in any of the documents released for Bidding. Please advise where this Report is listed or provide if not. (Drawing 107-A-100) | Hazardous material survey will be provided. Not all paint is to be regarded as containing LEAD. | |
| 90 | Referencing Keynote 36D as an example for lead paint locations for removal or remediation. Is an independent testing agency required to be hired by the General Contractor or will this be provided by the VA? Please advise. (Drawing 107-A-100) | Hazardous material survey will be provided. Not all paint is to be regarded as containing LEAD. | |
| 91 | Referencing Keynote 36D as an example for lead paint locations for removal or remediation. What level of lead abatement is required where encountered (Full Containment, enclosures only, etc.)? Also, if lead is discovered on the soil below where this exists, is soil abatement/remediation required? (Drawing 107-A-100, Drawing T7-A-102) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 92 | Referencing Key Note 25D, Asbestos Siding Removal. There is existing broken asbestos containing Siding on this building and there appears to be broken pieces located on the ground below. Does this soil need to be remediated? If so, how deep and how far? Please advise. (Drawing T7-A-102) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 93 | The Project Site Visitation was conducted on Monday, February 9, 2026. Will the sign in sheets be made available? Requesting that they be forwarded. (Site Visitation) | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 94 | Will there be any size or quantities provided that depict the entire scope of work that is to be performed under this contract? This will enable us to fully evaluate the materials and level of effort that is needed to facilitate the project scope. | The contract document indicates scope of work. Quantity take-offs are the responsibility of bidding contractors. | |
| 95 | Will there be a government-provided laydown area to use throughout the period of performance? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 96 | Has the VA identified long-lead equipment that may need early procurement? Will the Government provide additional time for the procurement of specialty items needed for this contract? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 97 | Will the Contractor be able to work on multiple buildings at the same time? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 98 | Will active construction sites be required to be cordoned off with chain link fencing around each facility that is being worked on? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 99 | Have hazardous materials surveys (asbestos, lead, mold) been completed for all facilities? Will abatement be owner-performed or contractor-performed? | Hazardous material survey will be provided | |
| 100 | What is the required process and lead time for required outages? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 101 | Is it allowable to double-hat the Site Superintendent and SSHO positions? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 102 | Are there known structural concerns in any of the facilities? | Required structural repairs covered by the scope of this project are indicated. Additional structural repairs are outside the scope of this contract | |
| 103 | Will there be any size or quantities provided that depict the entire scope of work that is to be performed under this contract? This will enable us to fully evaluate the materials and level of effort that is needed to facilitate the project scope. | The contract document indicates scope of work. Quantity take-offs are the responsibility of bidding contractors. | |
| 104 | Will there be a government-provided laydown area to use throughout the period of performance? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 105 | Has the VA identified long-lead equipment that may need early procurement? Will the Government provide additional time for the procurement of specialty items needed for this contract? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 106 | Will the Contractor be able to work on multiple buildings at the same time? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 107 | Will active construction sites be required to be cordoned off with chain link fencing around each facility that is being worked on? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 108 | Have hazardous materials surveys (asbestos, lead, mold) been completed for all facilities? Will abatement be owner-performed or contractor-performed? | Hazardous material survey will be provided. Abatement by contractor as indicated on drawings | |
| 109 | What is the required process and lead time for required outages? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 110 | Is it allowable to double-hat the Site Superintendent and SSHO positions? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 111 | Are there known structural concerns in any of the facilities? | Required structural repairs covered by the scope of this project are indicated. Additional structural repairs are outside the scope of this contract | |
| 112 | How many piers need to be replaced on building 41 | Forwarded to Structural for response | |
| 113 | The paint listed contains VOC's will there be an update to a different brand/Types of paint? | No. | |
| 114 | There are several areas throughout the drawings that will require clarification of Masonry tuck pointing. Will the specs/drawings be updated to reflect clarification? | No, contractor to bid based on scope indicated | |
| 115 | In the interest of level-setting the helical pile bids, would you consider establishing a bid depth for the piles? | A depth of the helical piers are dependent on the design of the exact piers used. The load capacity is listed on the structural drawings so the contractors should be able to get bids from pier contractors. |
| 116 | If there is a Geotechnical Report for this project, could you please share that information? | Attached is the Geotech document from our engineers basically detailing general conditions then leaving a note on why the detailed investigation is not required. | |
| 117 | Are bidders to rely solely on the contract drawings for roofing dimensions and quantity takeoff? | Contract documents provide the basis for bidding | |
| 118 | If bidders are required to independently field-verify roof dimensions prior to bid: | Contract documents provide the basis for bidding | |
| 1. Will the Government provide additional site access to allow comprehensive measurement of all in-scope buildings? | |||
| 2. Will the bid date be extended to accommodate such verification? | |||
| 119 | If field conditions are found after award to differ materially from contract drawing dimensions, will quantity adjustments be addressed through equitable adjustment? | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 120 | Please confirm the location and access instructions for complete construction drawings and | SAM.GOV | |
| technical specifications. | |||
| 121 | Is there a building schedule identifying the specific scope per each of the 25 buildings? | No, refer to drawings and specifications | |
| 122 | Are as-built drawings available for the affected buildings | No, refer to BID documents | |
| 123 | Is a facility condition assessment report available | Not for bidding purposes | |
| 124 | Are structural calculations or roof load documentation available for review | NO | |
| 125 | For each building, is the work full replacement of exterior systems or selective repair | Refer to contract documents | |
| 126 | Are roofing systems to be removed down to structural deck | Yes | |
| 127 | Are window quantities and sizes fully field-verified by the VA | Contractor to BID as scheduled, and Field verify for shop drawings. | |
| 128 | Are structural and foundation modifications fully defined in the contract documents | For items in scope | |
| 129 | Are known concealed conditions identified in the drawings or specifications | Known issues that are in the scope of the project. | |
| 130 | Has a hazardous materials survey been completed | Yes | |
| 131 | Is asbestos or lead-based paint abatement included in this contract | Yes | |
| 132 | How will unforeseen hazardous material discoveries be handled under this firm-fixed-price contract | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 133 | Which buildings will remain occupied during construction | YES | |
| 134 | Are any buildings classified as critical care or restricted-access facilities | NO | |
| 135 | Are there restrictions on work hours or noise-producing activities | YES, see specifications | |
| 136 | Is weekend or after-hours work permitted | YES | |
| 137 | Will phased completion by building be required | NO | |
| 138 | Where will contractor staging and laydown areas be located | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 139 | Is temporary fencing required | YES | |
| 140 | Are milestone completion dates required by building | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 141 | Are liquidated damages included | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 142 | Will adverse weather days be considered within the 365-day performance period | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 143 | Are there restrictions or coordination requirements for utility shutdowns | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 144 | Please confirm the applicable Davis-Bacon wage determination | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 145 | Is certified payroll submission required weekly | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 146 | Are infection control procedures required for exterior work at this medical campus | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 147 | Please confirm performance and payment bond requirements | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 148 | Are there any defined allowances within the contract | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 149 | Is a contractor contingency expected to be included in the bid | VA to Respond | 1 |
| 150 | |||
| 81 | |||
| 81 |
Sheet2
| # | CONTRACTOR QUESTION | VA RESPONSE |
| 1 | Key Personnel Qualifications lists a Site Superintendent, a CQC System Manager and a SSHO Safety and Health Officer. Can the Site Superintendent also perform the duties of the CQC System Manager if the qualifications for the CQC System Manager can be met? Please advise. (Spec Vol 1, Para 1.2) | The site superintend can also be the CQC manager as well. |
| 2 | Drawing 063-A-500 (Typical of all buildings) indicates that the existing through wall AC Units are being removed by the VA. Drawing T7-A-500 indicates that the Through-Wall AC Unit is to be Removed and the Wall Patched. Will the VA be removing this Unit as all of the other Units removed by the Owner, on this Project? (Drawing 063-A-500 Example & T7-A-500) | The units that indicate the VA will remove will be done by VA or another contract. The VA will be removing ONLY the ones indicated as such all other removals are to be done by contractor. |
| 3 | The Drawing Title Block references "Historically Contributing". Are there any provisions in the Bid (solicitation) Documents related to any Historical Building permitting, or special construction instructions related to Historical Preservation that are applicable? (Drawing 048-A-100) | No, the contractor will not be required to complete or acquire any permits or perform any special inspections relating to Historic provisions. |
| 4 | This Drawing references Helical Piers to be installed at Buildings 049 & 99 (Examples) on this Project. Foundation Plan Note 3 indicates that these are to be Designed by Others. Is the design along with the placement of these Helical Piers to be included in the Quotation for this Project? (Drawing 49-SB-100) | A depth of the helical piers are dependent on the design of the exact piers used. The load capacity is listed on the structural drawings so the contractors should be able to get proposals from pier contractors. |
| 5 | This Paragraph lists out which Buildings have normal working hours and after hours time periods. Can work be performed on more than one building at a time? Please advise. (Spec 01 00 00.11 Para 3.1) | YES, VA confirms that the contractor can work on more than one building at a time. This is not unlimited phasing plan will need to be discussed and approved by the VA. |
| 6 | Exterior Finish Systems (EIFS) Specifications are listed in the bid (soliciation) Document Specifications, based on "Dryvit" (EIFS). Aforementioned Drawing has notes referring to the existing Finish System being "Stucco". Believe that the exterior of this Building has Stucco, and not EIFS as specified. Please verify that EIFS materials are to be utilized for the resurfacing. Also please advise if EIFS reinforcing mesh is to be utilized only at locations where crack patchwork is being conducted, or placed over the entire building exterior where the existing Stucco is applied? (Drawing T1-T2-A-202 and Spec 07 24 00) | Specification Section 07 24 00 is a Direct Exterior Finish System. This is the intended product and should be installed as detailed in the referenced specification section. |
| 7 | Note 22R indicates the removal of the existing roof with a new TPO Roof. Does this also include the existing roof insulation removal and replacement underneath the roof ing to be removed? (Drawing 113-A-100) | Removal and replacement of roof insulation is not indicated. |
| 8 | Building 120 Elevation D1 indicates that there are three (3) Sectional Motorized Overhead Doors, key actuated, that are to be removed and replaced. Cannot find any Specifications for these. Please provide. (Drawing 120-A-100, Key Note 52R) | Doors to be replaced with new doors similar to existing. There is no exact specification for this. Contractors to use submittal process for approval of garage door. Door type needed is uninsulated residential sectional style roll up door. |
| 9 | Indicates a 1" Dia. Conduit and Wire, from the New Exterior Electric Generator to existing Panels in Building OM1. Are there any additional Record Drawings available, of Building OM1 to utilize for quoting the installation of the new Conduit and Wire through this Building (Ceilings, Floor, Walls, etc.)? (Drawing G-002, Drawing ES 101, Drawing 3-601, Detail 3) | This question does not reference any drawings included in this project. |
| 10 | Work on Buildings 48, 49, 68, 69, 74, 77, 80, 81,82, 135, 140, 143, 145, T-1 and T-2 to be performed AFTER Normal Business Hours. Buildings 31, 41, 63, 65, 66, 75, 76, 78, and T-7 are unoccupied and work can be performed during normal business hours. Building 47 is missing from these lists. (Spec 01 00 00.11, PP 11 & 12) | Building 47 can be worked on during the day. |
| 11 | Image reference B3,B6 indicates brick pointing scope of work, The extent of exact area of work is not clearly identified. Please clarify. (Drawing Ref 107-A500) | Contractor to propose extents visible in referenced photos. Details and specifications indicate what constitutes a deteriorated joint and procedure for correcting. Photos indicate areas which are out of tolerance per spec division 04. This spec calls out for requirement when brick requires repointing. Repointing past the called out amounts during site work investigations will require a modification. |
| 12 | Indicates Lead paint and asbestos discovery around windows. Documents refer to a Report. Is there additional information regarding the extent and discovery of asbestos? (Building 107-A-100) | Report is available and will be provided |
| 13 | Scope calls for cleaning of bricks for exterior and interior parts of the building. Extent of work required at internal walls is not clear, Image E8 and F8 are only two supporting pictures for area. Does the scope call for complete internal cleaning? (Drawing 109-A-500) | No interior work required. |
| 14 | Specifications Section 08 71 00 Door Hardware are not found in the Bid (solicitaton) Documents. Please provide. (Spec 08 71 00) | Exterior door at building 105 with hardware set 01, listed in door schedule, is the only door in scope. Spec provided at Attachment 27 - 08 71 00 DOOR HARDWARE |
| 15 | Scope 22R calls for replacement of roof with TPO membrane. Are there any additional drawings providing information on existing roof assembly? (Drawing 135-A-100) | No drawings of the existing roof assembly are available |
| 16 | Keynote 76R indicates to replace existing slate roof. Does this include to replace roof underlayment's including decking, vapor barrier etc.? Please clarify. (Drawing 047-A-100) | YES. Slate roof specifications for full system. |
| 17 | Keynote 6D requires repointing of damaged brick. Drawings do not provide the complete area/extent of work to be performed. Is the repointing to be performed limited to the area where the face brick is different, or all of the face brick for the entire building? Also, is there a defect register for cross verification of the area(s) to be repointed? (Drawing 047-A200) | Repointing required only where visibly damaged in photo. See RFI#11 response. |
| No defect registry available. | ||
| 18 | Keynote 72R indicates to paint entire building. Does it mean strictly the exterior surfaces, or is this to include interior ceilings, walls and decks as well? (Drawing 048-A100, 049-A100) | Exterior only |
| 19 | Key Note 54 R Indicates 6" Block wall. The sectional Detail 99-SB/SB100 shows 8" Block wall. Please advise the thickness of the block wall? (Drawing 99-SB100) | 8” per Detail. |
| 20 | Spec 01 00 00 Section 1.3A for Buildings 110,112 and 113 lists the repointing of the face brick. Drawings Keynote 27R indicates the cleaning and sealing of the existing face brick and some hole filling, however does not indicate any repointing. Please advise. (Buildings 110, 112 and 113) | No repointing indicated for B110, 112 or 113 |
| 21 | Keynote 22R denotes a new TPO membrane roof to be installed. Is the replacement roof insulation flat or tapered? Please advise. (Building 113 – A100) | Existing deck is sloped. No replacement insulation is indicated |
| 22 | Please specify the designated staging area for the project. | See Attachment 29 |
| 23 | Paragraph 3.1 indicates which buildings will be occupied during the day (all work performed during off-hours) and which ones are unoccupied (work can be performed during the day). Building 47 has been omitted from these lists. Please advise as to the time perion in which work can be performed? (Spec Section 01 00 00.11) | Building 47 is unoccupied and can be worked on during the day. |
| 24 | Attachment 1 - SOW, Scope paragraph; Specs Vol. 1, Section 02 82 11 (Traditional Asbestos Abatement). | See Attachments10 - 26 for asbestos/lead reports per builiding. |
| Several buildings indicate potential ACM in exterior siding, roofing underlayment, and window glazing/caulking. Are government-provided pre-abatement hazardous material survey reports (beyond referenced specs) available for bidder (contractor) review? If not, is the contractor required to perform additional destructive sampling during mobilization at no additional cost? | ||
| 25 | Drawings, various sheets; SOW "Scope". The project includes 25 buildings with varying conditions. Can the VA provide a building-by-building scope summary or matrix indicating which specific repairs (e.g., full roof replacement, siding removal, window replacement, foundation tuckpointing) apply to each building? | No, scope of work for each building indicated in drawings. |
| 26 | Specs Section 01 35 26 SOW "Work Hours" and "Performance Monitoring". | Phasing will be negotiated with the VA at the start of the contract. After hours work will be prioritized for the summer months to allow for use daylight hours. |
| Due to active hospital operations, please confirm any required phasing sequence between buildings (e.g., priority order, no simultaneous work in adjacent patient-care areas) and provide current restricted access zones or a site access map? | ||
| 27 | FAR 52.225-9 / 52.225-11; Specs Vol. 2, Sections 07 (Roofing), 08 (Windows/Doors). | All procurement needs to follow the Buy America Act attached to the solicitation. All required information is already attached. |
| For roofing membranes, insulated glazing units, and exterior cladding materials, are domestic-only sources strictly required, or do trade agreement exceptions apply? What specific documentation is needed for any proposed non-domestic material waiver? | ||
| 28 | Drawings; Specs Vol. 2, Section 07 31 13 (Asphalt Shingles) vs. Section 07 62 00 (Sheet Metal Flashing). Drawing detail shows continuous ice and water shield under shingles, while spec paragraph requires self-adhering membrane only at valleys/eaves. Which detail governs? | 07 31 13 requirements and details are consistent in showing self adhered membrane at valleys eaves etc. |
| 07 62 00 does not exist. 07 60 00 Flashing and Sheet metal applies only to formed sheet metal flashing | ||
| 29 | Attachment 9 – Wage Determination dated 1.23.2026; FAR 52.222-6. | The WD covers the entire project. |
| The WD lists multiple classifications (e.g., Roofer, Laborer, Asbestos Worker). Please confirm if separate rates apply per trade across all 25 buildings or if one WD covers the entire project? | ||
| 30 | VAAR 852.219-75 (Limitations on Subcontracting); Attachment 6 – Limitations on Subcontracting. For calculating the SDVOSB-required percentage of work, how should material costs be treated (included or excluded from the calculation)? Are specialty trades like asbestos abatement considered exempt? | VAAR 852.219-75(a)(1)(ii) states that costs of materials are excluded and not considered to be subcontracted. |
For special trades, see VAAR 852.219-75(a)(1)(iii)
| 31 | Reference: Specs Section 01 32 16.15 (Project Schedule); SOW Period of Performance (365 days). Will the government grant excusable delays for inclement weather typical in Walla Walla winters affecting exterior work? | Possibly. Considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| 32 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 02 83 33.13 (Lead-Based Paint Removal); Section 01 74 19 (Construction Waste Management). Please confirm disposal requirements for lead-contaminated debris (e.g., specific landfill approvals, manifests). Is on-site temporary storage of hazardous waste permitted? | Lead must be disposed per specification. Temporary storage will be coordinated with COR per specification. |
| 33 | Specs Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control); SOW "Inspection and Acceptance Criteria". | No third party inspection required, The contractor is expected to run a stringent construction quality assurance program. These inspecting will need to finished, documented and provided to the VA. Also for significant inspections the VA will require to be present for those inspections. |
| For final acceptance of roofing and window installations, is a third-party inspection/report required, or is contractor QC sufficient with COR walkthrough? | ||
| 34 | Specs Vol. 2, Section 08 80 00 (Glazing) or similar window section. | Windows are as scheduled on sheet G-500 |
| Are replacement windows required to match existing historic appearance (e.g., true divided lite muntin's), or are simulated divided lite acceptable if performance criteria are met? | ||
| 35 | SOW "Deliverables"; Specs Section 01 78 23 (Operation and Maintenance Data). | Warranties need to follow specifications. Specifications do not exclude assignment but warranties need to be executable by the VA without issues. |
| For warranted items (roofing, windows), must manufacturer warranties name the VA directly as beneficiary, or is assignment from contractor sufficient? | ||
| 36 | Specs Section 01 57 19 (Temporary Environmental Controls); Section 01 35 26 (Safety). Are temporary enclosures/heat required for exterior work during winter months to protect new materials and allow curing? | Any measures necessary to provide a quality end product is required as means and methods. Damaged to final product will require correction by the contractor at their expense. |
| 37 | SOW "Place of Performance" Please provide staging/parking area designations for contractor equipment and materials across the 25-building campus to minimize disruption. | See Attachment 29 |
| 38 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 04 20 00 (Unit Masonry). For tuckpointing and repointing, what mortar color matching standard applies (e.g., provide samples to COR for approval prior to work)? | Provide samples during submittal process for approval. Intent is to match existing for selection prior to commencing work. |
| 39 | Reference: FAR 52.236-2 (Differing Site Conditions). If unforeseen buried utilities or hazardous materials are encountered, what notification process and compensation mechanism applies? | FAR 52.236-2 describes the notification process. Compensation mechanism will be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| 40 | Specs Vol. 2, Section 07 54 19 (Thermoplastic Membrane Roofing) or similar. | Removal of existing roof membrane required |
| For roof replacements, is full tear-off required, or is recover/over-roofing permitted if existing substrate meets criteria? | ||
| 41 | SOW "Project Meetings"; Specs Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control). Are weekly QC meetings separate from the general progress meetings, or can they be combined if agenda covers both? | No, expectation is that the subcontractors will be involved QC meeting and would not be involved with general project meetings. |
| 42 | Attachment 8 – Contractor Rules of Behavior. Please clarify badge/access requirements for subcontractor personnel (e.g., background checks, PIV cards) and timeline for processing. | All Contractor personnel will be required to get temporary badges from the VA police. This typically takes 15-30 min including time to walk to Police building. |
| 43 | Specs Section 01 81 13 (Sustainable Construction Requirements). What specific sustainable credits or goals (e.g., recycled content, low-VOC materials) are mandatory vs. encouraged for this project? | This must meet specification, no specific goals outside of the specifications. |
| 44 | SOW "Mechanical and electrical work required to repair exterior features". For exterior light fixtures or power feeds affected by siding/roof work, is relocation or replacement in scope, or only temporary protection? | For any utilities requiring relocation to facilitate the work, COR approval is required prior to. For utility temporary protection required to facilitate the work, contractor required to do so based on their best practices. Any damages require replacement. |
| 45 | Does any hard water staining on the brick need to be removed? | Yes, where cleaning is specified |
| 46 | Specs Vol. 1, Section 04 05 31 (Masonry Tuck Pointing). Foundation cracks are noted on several buildings. What is the acceptable crack width threshold for tuckpointing vs. requiring epoxy injection or other structural repair? | Structural repairs called out in the drawings and specs are required. Repairs outside of what is in the contract documents must occur as a modification and are not part of this bid/solicitation. |
| 47 | 01 45 29 - Testing Laboratory Services: Is it just the soils, concrete, and masonry testing that is being asked for? I didn't see any specific mention in the specifications for QA inspections on the building envelope features (roofing, siding, windows, etc.). Considering this is for the VA, I'd expect they would want some level of inspection for the envelope repairs/replacements, but don't see where this is mentioned. Could you clarify? | The contractor is expected to run a stringent construction quality assurance program. These inspecting will need to finished, documented and provided to the VA. Also for significant inspections the VA will require to be present for those inspections. |
| 48 | Can the Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) and Site Superintendent roles be performed by the same individual (double-hatting), provided that person meets all qualification and experience requirements for both positions (e.g., minimum five years as a Construction Site Superintendent, OSHA 30-hour training, 40-hour EM 385-1-1 training, etc.)? | Please see 01 35 26 1.9 A The Prime Contractor shall provide a minimum of one “Full-Time” SSHO at each project site, for each shift (with no other duties) ….. |
| 49 | If double-hatting is not permitted by default: Please confirm whether the SSHO must be maintained as a separate, dedicated, full-time on-site position independent from the Site Superintendent and other supervisory roles to ensure no conflict of interest in safety oversight, particularly given the project’s hazards (asbestos abatement per Section 02 82 11, lead-based paint removal per Section 02 83 33.13, roofing at heights, and work on an active medical campus). | Please see 01 35 26 1.9 A The Prime Contractor shall provide a minimum of one “Full-Time” SSHO at each project site, for each shift (with no other duties) ….. |
| 50 | Would triple-hatting (e.g., one individual serving as Project Manager, Site Superintendent, and SSHO simultaneously) be allowable only with prior written approval from the Contracting Officer or COR, and only if the individual fully satisfies the qualification requirements for each role without compromising dedicated safety responsibilities? | Please see 01 35 26 1.9 A The Prime Contractor shall provide a minimum of one “Full-Time” SSHO at each project site, for each shift (with no other duties) ….. |
| 51 | Please confirm that this procurement is being conducted as a Best Value Tradeoff, and not as Lowest Price Technically Acceptable. | Source Selection procedures for this requirement identified in Instructions to Offerors. This is a Best Value Trade Off award. |
| 52 | Will the Government allow clarifications after proposal submission to address minor administrative issues? Is it expected applicant submit list of bid qualifications at time of submission. | Procedures for addressing clarification after proposal submission are governed by the FAR. In addition, the solicitation includes a list of required submittals, which identifies the documents necessary to satisfy the submission requirements. |
| 53 | Does the applicant and/or the Prime Sub need to be licensed GC in the State of Washington? | Contractor needs to have licensed to work in the State of Washington. |
| 54 | Does the CQC have to be a “graduate” of a program and does that education count towards the 5 years of experience? What level of “graduate” do they need to be? | Education does not count towards the five years of experience. Minimum level of graduate is Bachelors. |
| 55 | Does OSHA 30 meet the SSHO requirement for safety certification? | Please see 01 35 26 1.9 A |
| 56 | How many hours per week are the CQC and SSHO actively on site? | Both CQC and SSHO is expected to be working onsite during construction period. |
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