Attachment RFI Q-A VA Response 06-11-2026.pdf

RFI Questions & Answers for Solicitation No. 36C26126R0041 Project No. 593-26-103

Renovate Education Bldg Training Hub VAMC Las Vegas, NV

VA Responses

Q1:

What power is required for the motorized partition wall?(note #4 sheet E-101)

Q1 VA Answer: Power for the motorized position is determined by the manufacturer selected by contractor and approved by VA. New power is expected to be necessary as existing wall is not electric. New power will conform to manufacturer’s requirements as dictated by SOW and VA specifications.

Q2:

Where are the electrical panels located? (Assumption is Electrical room 1H139)

Q2 VA Answer: Electrical Panels are Located in 1H139, East of the quad.

Q3:

What power/data is required for the podium floor boxes?(note #2 sheet E-101)

Q3 VA Answer: The AV vendor requires two, 1 ¼’’ conduits ran with stub ups for their podiums. Separately, the podiums require 120v 20A power and VA data run to a floor box. The construction contractor is responsible for laying the two 1 ¼’’ conduits and the two separate power and VA data conduits to the podium floor box. However, the VA contractor is only responsible for pulling cable through the power and VA data conduits to the podium floor box. The AV vendor will pull their own wire for the 1 1/4’’ conduits.

Q4:

Where is the data rack located? (Assumption is Telecom 1H127)

Q4 VA Answer: Data rack is located in 1H127.

Q5:

Where is the motorized divider control box located? What power/data is required for this? (note #6 sheet E-101)

Q5 VA Answer: Note #6 was a duplicate note and has been removed. Please see new “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026” for updated plans.

Q6:

What fixture are we to provide (NEW SPOTLIGHT FOR PODIUMS)(note #1 sheet E-102)

Q6 VA Answer: Contractor is to provide light with salient characteristics like the “DALS Lighting Pivot LED Canless Recessed Fixture with 7" Adjustable Trims – Airtight” or equivalent. These include 120V integrated LED, 7in trim size, with 40 degree beam spread and diming capabilities. Contractor to submit model to VA for approval.

Q7:

Are the new podium fixtures to be dimmable?

Q7 VA Answer: Yes.

Q8:

Are we to provide dimmer switches for the new podium spotlights?(note #6 sheet E-

101) What data do the TVs require? (note #3 sheet E-101)

Q8 VA Answer: Yes, dimmers are to be provided. TVs require DUPLEX RECEPTACLE 1-GANG BOX DEEP (2) DATA PORT as described in AV equipment drawings.

Q9:

AD102 Demo plan shows Keynote #13 tagged throughout the RCP. Keynote #13 reads "Demo ceiling tiles and grids". SOW item 4.2 reads "Install new ceiling grids and ceiling tiles where equipment was removed to match existing ceiling grid." Please advise if the whole ceiling is being demolished and replaced.

Q9 VA Answer: The existing ceiling tile grid in the main quad will remain as described in section 4 of the SOW. Ceiling grid within the storage space will be fully replaced as described in section 5. Please see new “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026” for updated plans.

Q10:

Confirm if the existing ceiling tile structural support system shall be demolished or if this can be reused.

Q10 VA Answer: The existing ceiling tile grid in the main quad will remain as described in section 4 of the SOW. Ceiling grid within the storage space will be fully replaced as described in section 5. Please see new “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026” for updated plans.

Q11:

Confirm if the existing south single doors in corridor C1-107 are to remain as AD101 Identifies all other doors to be demolished.

Q11 VA Answer: Southern doors adjacent to C1-107 are to remain.

Q12:

Confirm if the existing storage contains flooring shall be Demolished. If so confirm existing flooring type.

Q12 VA Answer: Carpet is present throughout the entire quad, including the storage rooms. There is no existing flooring separation between storage room and main quad. Carpet flooring replacement includes storage rooms.

Q13:

AD102 Demo plan shows Keynote #8 tagged at the existing horizontal (East West) soffit. Keynote #8 reads"Demo Gypsum Board Soffit". SOW item 4.1 read "Gypsum soffit that dividing wall is located within is to remain. After removal of dividing wall patch and finish existing soffit to a smooth condition such that no evidence of the previous track remains. Please advise if the soffit is to remain or be demolished.

Q13 VA Answer: The existing ceiling tile grid in the main quad will remain as described in section 4 of the SOW. Ceiling grid within the storage space will be fully replaced as described in section 5. Please see new “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026” for updated plans.

Q14:

Provide a door schedule to identify door dimensions, materials, frame type, rating, hardware, etc.

Q14 VA Answer: contracting will answer

Q15:

Provide a detail for all pony walls, gyp type, stud type, insulation type etc.

Q15 VA Answer: No specific detail will be provided of new pony walls by VA.

Walls are 16’’ on center metal studs, 5/8’’ gypsum board finished both sides with backing as required for new television mounting. Both sides gypsum board will be finished to match existing, including floor-wall base and transition. Cove base and Gypsum board requirements can be found in 09 29 00. Stud requirements can be found in 05 40 00. No insulation is required for pony walls. A wall type detail that is similar to the pony walls required has been given in the as-builts, however, this is not representative of the exact pony wall required for this requirement.

Q16:

Confirm if storage rooms 1H122B and 1H123B Shall receive carpet flooring.

Confirm that Storage rooms 1H122A, 1H125A, 1H123A and 1H124A shall NOT RECEIVE Carpet flooring.

Q16 VA Answer: All carpet flooring, including carpet flooring within the storage rooms, is to be demolished and replaced.

Q17:

The Terazzo tile specified on 09 06 00 - 3 indicate two tile types WT2 - 769 Type 1 and WT2 – 767 Type 3. Please confirm which type shall be selected.

Q17 VA Answer: TT-1 with WT2-769 Type 1 is the desired tile to be used throughout the entirety of the new surrounding corridor tiling. TT-3 is an accent within the existing main corridor and will not be used.

Q18:

Please provide specifications for the podiums. Advise if these are manufactured free standing podiums or if these are custom mill-work made.

Q18 VA Answer: Podium Cutsheets are in development. Podiums are custom for the project. Data/Power requirements necessary for the purposes of the construction project have been provided in another RFI and in updated project documents.

Q19:

PART1:

Per ED101 Key Note #05 The existing podium furniture feeds is terminated at an assumed panel in the adjacent wall and it shall be demolished. However Key Note #02 on E101 states "INSTALL ELEC AND DATA FLOOR BOXES AT THE PODIUM

LOCATIONS. RUN DATA CONDUITS TO ADJACENT WALL, TERMINATE ABOVE

CEILING." Please confirm if the new electrical feed, shall be ran from the new floor box location at the podium up to the existing location of the panel that is assumed to be at the wall and terminated at the wall in lieu of in the ceiling.

PART 2

If the new power and data for the podium shall indeed be terminated above the ceiling please confirm that existing power and data exists above the ceiling at the location above the ceiling for the termination. If it is not directly above the podium, please advise of the approximate distance to where it will be terminated.

Q19 VA Answer: Wording in E-101 has been adjusted to avoid ambiguity. The contractor can tie into existing electrical and data from the old podiums where available and where compliant with new podium specifications, including tying into existing electrical and data within the wall.

Q20:

SOW Section 11.4 requires a quad receptacle at each podium floor box location fed from panel 1H139. No power conduit size is specified anywhere in the contract documents. Please provide the required conduit size and circuit amperage for the podium power feed.

Q20 VA Answer: The receptacle size has changed from a quad receptacle to a duplex receptacle for each floor box. Conduit size will be in accordance with NEC (per spec 26 05 33) for a 120V 20A power feed. Furthermore the data for the floor boxes shall comply with the requirements listed in 27 05 33.

Q21:

SOW Section 6.4 specifies two (2) 1-1/4" conduits per podium for AV/Data, and Reference Drawing E-101 Keynote 02 confirms these are data conduits only. Please confirm that the power conduit to panel 1H139 is a separate, additional conduit, bringing the total to three (3) conduits per podium location.

Q21 VA Answer: The AV vendor requires two, 1 ¼’’ conduits ran with stub ups for their podiums. Separately, the podiums require 120v 20A power and VA data run to a floor box. The construction contractor is responsible for laying the two 1 ¼’’ conduits and the two separate power and VA data conduits to the podium floor box. However, the VA contractor is only responsible for pulling cable through the power and VA data conduits to the podium floor box. The AV vendor will pull their own wire for the 1 1/4’’ conduits. This brings the total conduit required per podium to four, with two being run to a floor box and two running to direct/stub ups.

Q22:

SOW Section 11.4 requires a quad receptacle and SOW Section 12.4 requires a 4-port CAT6A WAO, both installed in the same floor box. No floor box size or product is specified. Please provide the required floor box specifications or confirm that the contractor may select an appropriately sized listed floor box that accommodates both power and data modules with required NEC separation.

Q22 VA Answer: Contractor may select and appropriately sized listed box that accommodates both power and data modules for the new podiums as required by the NEC and in coordination with AV vendor.

Q23:

SOW Section 6.4 first states the two (2) 1-1/4" conduits are empty, then states "provide all necessary data/power wiring through this new conduit as necessary for new podium connection." Please clarify whether the contractor is responsible for pulling data/AV cabling through these conduits or whether they are to remain empty for the AV vendor's use.

Q23 VA Answer: The contractor is required to place the new 1 ¼’’ conduit to a direct stub up as shown in the AV equipment drawings, however, is not responsible for pulling cable through those conduit. However, The contractor is responsible for laying and pulling wire through the additional power and VA data conduits to the floor box.

Q24:

Please confirm if Keynote 06 on E101 is a duplication of Keynote #04. If not please advise what Keynote #06 is and where it can be found.

Q24 VA Answer: Keynote 06 is a duplicate of keynote 04. This has been corrected in new drawings “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026”.

Q25:

SOW Item 13.1 indicates that paint is only required in the quad space (rooms and storage rooms). Please confirm that paint is not required in the corridors.

Q25 VA Answer: Painting is restricted to the education quads (including storage rooms). There is no painting required on the surrounding corridors.

Q26:

What kind of motorized Partition control panel?

Q26 VA Answer: The motorized partition control panel is included with the purchase itself and is specific to each manufacturer.

Q27:

What kind of podium lights are we using?

Q27 VA Answer: refer to Q6 VA Answer.

Q28:

What kind of motorized divider control box?

Q28 VA Answer: Keynote 06 is a duplicate of keynote 04. This has been corrected in new drawings “593-26-103 Reference Drawings May 28th 2026”.

Q29:

Do new data lines need to be ran?

Q29 VA Answer: Existing Data can be utilized where possible within the space.

Where existing data is insufficient or otherwise unavailable, new data must be ran.

Q30:

The plans do not specify the type or specs for the new downlights, can you provide specifications for these light?

Q30 VA Answer: refer to Q6 VA Answer.

Q31:

Plans do not specify what type of floor boxes will be used, is this contractor reference?

Q31 VA Answer: Contractor may select an appropriately sized listed box that accommodates both power and data modules for the new podiums as required by the podium manufacturer and in coordination with AV vendor.

Q32:

Are we continuing the new tile for corridors to match existing tile? Or Are we using Schluter transition to separate tiles?

Q32 VA Answer: Schluter is not required between the placement of the new tiles and existing tiles. New details of existing have been provided in new as-builts for additional reference.

Q33:

Are we using a Schluter transition on carpet to tile doorways?

Q33 VA Answer: Yes. Schulter transition strips will be necessary between the new tiled corridor and existing surrounding carpeted rooms. New details of existing have been provided in new as-builts for additional reference.

Q34:

What size rubber covebase for new carpet tile areas

Q34 VA Answer: New rubber cove base will match existing 4’’ cove base.

Replacement will be submitted by contractor and approved by VA prior to installation.

Q35:

The SOW references the ModernFold Acousti-Seal Legacy Electric continuously hinged automatic dividing wall (STC 52 with Presto® package) as basis of design. Will the Government accept an “or equal” product, or is ModernFold required?

Q35 VA Answer: Per section 3.2.5 in SOW, “or equivalent” is acceptable pending approval from VA.

Q36:

For the new automatic dividing wall, will the Government provide stamped structural calculations and shop drawings, or must the Contractor’s licensed Structural Engineer provide them?

Q36 VA Answer: The government will not provide stamped drawings. This is the responsibility of the contractor.

Q37:

The SOW requires GPR scanning prior to trenching for new underfloor utility runs to the podiums but do not see that on the dwgs. Is it required? If so, who bears the cost if of utilities is required due to conflicts discovered during GPR?

Q37 VA Answer: GPR is required prior to trenching of new utility runs as described in SOW. Contractor will construct shortest route for the new utilities to the new podium with minimal impact to existing structural concrete and any utilities.

Q38:

For the two new 10’ high pony walls (6’ from the northern wall with 3’6” opening), is a box-header or additional structural backing required at the westernmost wall connection?

Q38 VA Answer: Yes. See SOW section 2.1. New pony wall shall be made structurally sound.

Q39:

The SOW states that the television and mounts on the new pony walls will be installed “by others.” Will the Contractor still be responsible for providing all power, data, backing, and conduit stub-outs to those locations?

Q39 VA Answer: Yes. Contractor is responsible for preparing the walls with power, backing, data, and other conduit as necessary for the new televisions.

Q40:

The SOW requires coordination with the VA-procured AV equipment vendor for installation of new monitors, podiums, and associated equipment. Will the Government provide the AV vendor’s submittal package, schedule, and exact connection points prior to construction?

Q40 VA Answer: Yes. Information will be provided prior to construction.

Q41:

For the new 2-port CAT6A WAOs at the TV locations and 4-port CAT6A WAOs at the podium floor boxes, are these to be furnished and installed by the Contractor, or will they be provided by the AV vendor?

Q41 VA Answer: Construction contractor is responsible for furnishing and installing these. CAT6A requirement has been adjusted to CAT6.

Q42:

Has a pre-renovation hazardous materials survey (asbestos, lead-based paint, silica) been completed for the areas of demolition (ceilings, walls, flooring, projectors, smartboards)? If not, will the Government provide one prior to bid?

Q42 VA Answer: No a survey has not been completed. Building was constructed in 2015. No, the government will not provide one prior to bid.

Q43:

The SOW requires removal of existing projectors, screens, smartboards, and associated wiring. Are these items to be removed and disposed of by the Contractor, or will they remain VA property for reuse?

Q43 VA Answer: The contractor will return all existing items back to the VA.

Q44:

Is there an exact product specification or manufacturer for the new terrazzo-style tile in the corridor? Are samples required for approval?

Q44 VA Answer: Manufacturer and type required are listed within specifications, 09 06 00. Product samples are required for approval prior to installation.

Q45:

For the new carpet tiles in the training quad (J+J Flooring Kinetex 24x24, Catalyst 1841, Color 284 Accelerator or equal), will the Government provide a physical color sample or allow a close match?

Q45 VA Answer: New carpeting shall match existing to the best extent possible. If exact match cannot be procured, contractor will submit their proposed carpet flooring for VA approval.

Q46:

Will the Government provide as-built drawings for existing electrical, data, HVAC, and structural conditions in the education quad prior to bid, or must the Contractor perform field verification at their own cost?

Q46 VA Answer: Existing as-builts have been provided. VA does not guarantee the total accuracy of the as-builts and it is highly recommended that field verification take place prior to work.

Q47:

The ICRA classifies this project as Category C. Will the Government dictate the exact ICRA barrier locations and Class, or may the Contractor propose the phasing/ICRA plan for VA approval?

Q47 VA Answer: Contractor is required to submit ICRA plan to VA for approval prior to work start.

Q48:

Are after-hours or weekend work hours permitted to meet the 120-calendar-day performance period? If yes, what is the approval process and who bears any additional security or access costs?

Q48 VA Answer: After-hours work has not been considered within this solicitation. After-hours work may be considered post-award after prior approval by VA. There are no additional costs associated with security or access, as a VA representative will always be on site.

Q49:

The SOW requires a CPM construction schedule within 10 business days of NTP. Is Primavera P6 required or can we use something else?

Q49 VA Answer: Construction scheduling software is at the contractors discretion, however it shall be made available to VA in PDF format as required by SOW. VA preferred scheduling software is Microsoft projects.

Q50:

For the new automatic dividing wall pocket doors, are safety interlock switches required on both sides, and must they integrate with the existing fire alarm system?

Q50 VA Answer: No. The new partition wall is not required to be fire rated or otherwise tied into the fire alarm system. Safety interlock switches are integrated within the system used for basis of design.

Q51:

Will the Government allow reuse of existing door hardware (hinges, closers, locks) on the replaced doors where possible, or must all hardware be new and match the specifications in Division 08?

Q51 VA Answer: See Sow section 9.3. All new hardware must match the specifications.

Q52:

The SOW requires painting of all walls in the education quad. Must the paint color and sheen exactly match existing, or will a new color schedule be issued?

Q52 VA Answer: paint color is to match existing as detailed in Sow section 13.0.

Q53:

Are there any known hazardous materials (mold, PCBs, etc.) in the ceiling plenum or above the existing acoustic ceilings?

Q53 VA Answer: No.

Q54:

The SOW references “593-26-103 Reference Drawings.” Will the Government issue the final construction drawings prior to the proposal due date, or are the reference drawings the only documents available for bidding?

Q54 VA Answer: These documents are the only documents that will be used. The drawings are schematic in nature as the contract is a straight-to-construction project.

Q55:

What is the required fire rating (if any) for the new single double-door assemblies being installed in the storage rooms?

Q55 VA Answer: There is no fire rating requirement for the new double-door assemblies for the storage rooms.

Q56:

Will the Government allow double-hatting of key personnel (e.g., Superintendent also serving as QC or SSHO) on this Small Scale project, or must all positions be filled separately?

Q56 VA Answer: Superintendent shall be allowed to operate as SSHO, however a separate individual shall be responsible for QA/QC.

Q57:

Is the 120-calendar-day performance period measured from Notice to Proceed or from Award? Are weather days or VA-directed delays considered excusable?

Q57 VA Answer: Period of Performance (PoP) is measured from the date of when the Notice-To-Proceed (NTP) letter is issued. Excusable delays can be found in

FAR 52.249-10.

Q58:

The PCRA and ICRA require specific safety and infection control measures. Will the VA accept current TB testing and OSHA 30/10-hour certifications from previous VA projects, or must new certifications be obtained for this project?

Q59 VA Answer: Negative TB test results are required to be screened “within 90 days prior to assignment of the worksite” regardless of previous results per spec 01 35 26. OSHA certifications will be accepted assuming they are current and not expired.

Q59:

For the new underfloor utility runs and floor boxes, is saw-cutting, trenching, and concrete patching required? We didn’t see it referenced on the dwgs.

Q59 VA Answer: Contractor means and methods will be utilized to construct the underfloor utility runs.

Q60:

Will the Government provide a pre-construction survey of existing conditions (walls, floors, ceilings, utilities) in the education quad, or is the Contractor responsible for all verification?

Q60 VA Answer: VA will provide as-builts of the space from original construction.

Contractor is responsible for verifying existing conditions as these may not totally be reflected by as-builts.

Q61:

Are there any restrictions on noise, dust, or vibration levels during normal working hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM) due to ongoing training sessions in adjacent spaces?

Q61 VA Answer: Please reference 01 57 19 for sound/noise requirements. Dust is controlled by VA ICRA. Vibration controls will fall under VA ICRA, as any dust generated by construction will be contractor’s responsibility to control.

Q62:

Will the Government provide the AV equipment vendor’s contact information and installation schedule prior to Notice to Proceed?

Q62 VA Answer: Yes.

Q63:

For the structural shop drawings and calculations required for the automatic dividing wall and pony walls, is a Nevada-licensed Professional Engineer required, or will any licensed PE be acceptable?

Q63 VA Answer: A professional Engineer from any US state is acceptable as the VA is under federal jurisdiction.

Q64:

The SOW requires coordination with the VA-procured AV equipment vendor for installation of new monitors, podiums, and associated equipment. Will the Government provide the AV vendor’s detailed submittal package, connection schedules, and power/data requirements prior to Notice to Proceed?

Q64 VA Answer: Yes.

Q65:

Will the Government allow the Contractor to stage materials and equipment inside the building, or must all staging occur outside in designated areas only?

Q65 VA Answer: The construction area can be utilized for staging of materials.

Any materials not secured within this site should be secured externally via connex or storage unit at laydown location.

Q66:

Are there any planned or ongoing utility shutdowns (electrical, HVAC, fire alarm, or data) required during this project that the Contractor must coordinate with VA Engineering?

Q66 VA Answer: Any adjustment or renovation involving existing utilities must be coordinated with VA engineering. No Live work is permitted on site. No shutdowns outside of those necessary for construction are planned.

Q67:

For the new automatic dividing wall and pony walls, what is the required seismic design category and performance criteria?

Q67 VA Answer: Seismic criteria and categories will match the requirements listed within the TIL Seismic Design Guide. Seismic design category is C with building risk category of II. Additionally, the automatic dividing wall will follow seismic design criteria given by contractor’s structural engineer as described in

SOW.

Q68:

The PCRA classifies this project as Small Scale construction. Will the Government allow the Contractor to submit a combined ICRA/PCRA control plan, or must separate plans be submitted for approval?

Q68 VA Answer: Separate ICRA and PCRA plans must be submitted, abiding by VA ICRA and PCRA standards.

Q69:

What are the exact noise and vibration limits that must be maintained during normal working hours to avoid disruption to adjacent training and office spaces?

Q69 VA Answer: Please reference 01 57 19 for sound/noise requirements.

Vibration limits are not specified, however any dust generated by these vibrations shall be controlled by the contractor.

Q70:

For the new terrazzo-style tile and carpet tile, what is the required warranty period from the manufacturer, and will the Contractor be responsible for providing extended warranties?

Q70 VA Answer: Please reference FAR clause 52.246-21 as specified in specification 09 66 16, section 1.8.

Q71:

The SOW requires a CPM schedule within 10 business days of NTP. Is a detailed 3-week look-ahead schedule also required on a weekly basis during construction?

Q71 VA Answer: Yes.

Q72:

Will the Government provide a detailed Schedule of Values template, or may the Contractor develop their own format for monthly payment applications?

Q72 VA Answer: Contractor may develop their own template.

Q73:

Are there any restrictions on the use of certain materials or products (e.g., VOC limits, Buy American requirements) beyond those listed in the specifications?

Q73 VA Answer: VA mandates buy American act for all construction materials (FAR). Please refer to specifications for other material restrictions.

Q74:

For this Small Scale renovation project, will the Government allow double-hatting of key personnel (Superintendent/SSHO/QC), or must all positions be filled separately?

Q74 VA Answer: Superintendent shall be allowed to operate as SSHO, however a separate individual shall be responsible for QA/QC.

Q75:

May the Superintendent also serve in a dual role as the Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) and/or Quality Control Manager, or must each position be filled by a separate individual?

Q75 VA Answer: Superintendent shall be allowed to operate as SSHO, however a separate individual shall be responsible for QA/QC.

Q76:

Is continuous on-site presence of qualified supervisory personnel (Superintendent and/or SSHO) required during all working hours (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM), or is periodic daily supervision acceptable?

Q76 VA Answer: Continuous observation is required.

Q77:

Is a full-time, dedicated on-site Superintendent required throughout the entire 120-calendar-day performance period whenever any construction activities are occurring?

Q77 VA Answer: Yes.

Q78:

What are the minimum qualifications and experience required for the on-site Superintendent and SSHO on this project?

Q78 VA Answer: Please see specification 01 35 26.

Q79:

Is the Contractor required to provide a separate on-site Project Manager in addition to the Superintendent, or is the Superintendent sufficient to meet key personnel requirements?

Q79 VA Answer: Contractor is not required to have an ON-SITE project manager, however, a project manager shall be utilized that is separate from the on-site superintendent.

Q80:

The solicitation does not disclose the VAAR Magnitude of Construction for Project 593- 26-103. For purposes of evaluating Past Performance under the SDVOSB set-aside, what is the anticipated magnitude range of this project (e.g., $1,000,000 – $5,000,000, $2,000,000 – $6,000,000, etc.)?

Q80 VA Answer: The Independent Government Cost Estimate (IGCE) for this requirement places the anticipated construction value below the minimum dollar threshold identified in VA Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) 836.204, which begins at $1,000,000. Because VAAR 836.204 only requires disclosure of a magnitude range when the estimated value falls within one of the VAAR‑prescribed ranges, no magnitude range is published for this project. Accordingly, the omission of a VAAR magnitude is intentional and compliant with the regulation.

Q81:

Are there any known discrepancies between the drawings and existing field conditions?

Q81 VA Answer: Contractor is responsible for verifying as-built conditions.

Q82:

Will additional as-built drawings be provided before award or after NTP?

Q82 VA Answer: Should additional as-built drawings be found necessary they will be provided. All as-builts relevant for the scope has been given.

Q83:

Has hazardous material testing been completed in the project area?

Q83 VA Answer: No.

Q84:

Is this project tax exempt?

Q84 VA Answer: This solicitation incorporates FAR 52.229-3, Federal, State, and Local Taxes, which governs tax obligations for both parties. The contract price shall include all applicable federal, state, and local taxes unless otherwise expressly provided in the contract.

While the Department of Veterans Affairs is a federal agency, federal tax immunity does not extend to contractors or subcontractors performing work on VA projects. Prime contractors and subcontractors are not designated as Government agents and therefore cannot rely on the Government’s tax immunity.

The contractor is solely responsible for determining its applicable tax liabilities and for including all such taxes in its offered price.

This solicitation confers no tax exemption. The Government does not provide tax advice, issue exemption certificates on behalf of contractors, or assume liability for taxes not accounted for in the contractor's price. Offerors should consult qualified tax counsel and the relevant taxing authorities in the jurisdiction(s) of performance prior to submitting an offer.

This RFI response is informational only and does not amend or modify the solicitation/contract terms or allocate tax liability beyond existing solicitation/contract provisions and clauses.

Q85:

Are there any restrictions for staging materials, dumpsters, or parking?

Q85 VA Answer: Contractor must store materials within the construction area or within the contractor laydown area. Dumpsters can be used and are to be placed outside the loading dock. Contractors are to park in employee parking areas.

Q86:

Will the VA provide a finish schedule?

Q86 VA Answer: See Specification 09 06 00.

Q87:

Are the duct diffusers in scope for replacement?

Q87 VA Answer: No. reference SOW.

Q88:

Are there as built mechanical drawings?

Q88 VA Answer: Reference provided as-built drawings.

Q89:

Are there as built fire sprinkler drawings?

Q89 VA Answer: Reference provided as-built drawings.

Q90:

Are there as built telecommunication drawings?

Q90 VA Answer: Reference provided as-built drawings.

Q91:

Please identify the ICRA Level

Q91 VA Answer: ICRA level is given in attached ICRA form.

Q92:

Are STARC Panels acceptable for dust barriers?

Q92 VA Answer: Yes, but please refer to ICRA document for exact requirements.

Q93:

Is the contractor or VA providing the podium?

Q93 VA Answer: The AV Contractor will provide the podium to the VA.

Construction contractor for this contract will coordinate location with AV contractor as per SOW.

Q94:

Do all light fixtures get removed and replaced?

Q94 VA Answer: No. Reference SOW and updated reference drawings.

Q95:

Please provide details on existing lighting control system.

Q95 VA Answer: Lighting control system information can be found in the as-builts, sheet EL-201B.

Q96:

Is there a product selection for new lighting?

Q96 VA Answer: There is no new lighting required for this project, outside spotlights per SOW and updated reference drawings. Reference Earlier RFI for details.

Q97:

What is the model and make of new mechanical partition?

Q97 VA Answer: The ModernFold Acousti-Seal Legacy Electric Automated Continuously Hinged Panel System, STC 52 with Presto® package has been selected as the basis of design. Contractor must provide this or equivalent and be approved by VA.

Q98:

Will there be a paint finish schedule pre bid provided?

Q98 VA Answer: Please reference Specification 09 06 00.

Q99:

Are there a new ceiling tile selection?

Q99 VA Answer: Ceiling tiles will match existing when replaced/installed.

Q100:

Will there be provided architectural plans and m.p.e?

Q100 VA Answer: yes. Reference provided As-builts.

Q101:

Are there flooring specs?

Q101 VA Answer: Yes. Reference provided specifications.

Q102:

Will an ssho be required to be onsite for the full duration of the project?

Q102 VA Answer: Yes.

Q103:

Will a quality control manager be required to be onsite?

Q103 VA Answer: Yes.

Q104:

Drawing A-401/A-402 (keynote 06) states "AV contractor to provide TV; construction contractor to provide backing, power/data." SOW 2.2 says TV and mounts are installed by others. Confirm the exact scope boundary, specifically, is the construction contractor responsible for the physical mount hardware or only the backing and rough-in?

Q104 VA Answer: Contractor is responsible for backing and rough-in in accordance with new television requirements. Mounting and installation of TV will come from AV contractor.

Q105:

The drawings (A-101, keynote 04) state "podiums to be provided by the contractor." The SOW scope references two new podiums in 1H124 and 1H125 only. Confirm: are new podiums required in 1H122 and 1H123 as well, or only in 1H124 and 1H125?

Q105 VA Answer: New podiums are only required in 1H124 and 1H125.

Q106:

The SOW states the contractor must coordinate with the VA's chosen AV equipment vendor for podium locations, floor box placement, conduit runs, and TV mounting. Who is the AV equipment vendor, and will they be on-site during construction or only at installation?

Q106 VA Answer: AV equipment vendor will be provided after award. This contractor will be onsite for the duration of the project and it is expected that the construction contractor work in coordination with them as per SOW.

Q107:

GPR Scan Responsibility / Timing - SOW 1.1 requires GPR scanning prior to concrete cutting. Will the VA provide any existing slab drawings or utility as-builts to the contractor prior to GPR, and is the GPR scan a contractor-procured service or VA-furnished?

Q107 VA Answer: GPR scan is Contractor-procured and their responsibility.

Reference SOW. As-builts have been provided.

Q108:

The purpose of this RFI is to gather more information. We seek to delivers a feasible construction plan for the steel structure being constructed to support the partition wall.

Our blindspots right now are 1) what is the maximum span for the steel header beam for constructibility? and 2) what jacking machinery can (feasibly) be used in the facility to move, lift, and position the steel?

Q108 VA Answer: The structural analysis of the steel structure for the new partition wall will be the responsibility of the contractors retained structural engineer as described in SOW. Any jacking machinery required for the installation shall also be considered as a part of the analysis for the installation of the new partition wall.

Q109:

Section 09 66 16, TERRAZZO FLOOR TILE — Tile Size Section 09 66 16, Part 1.2.D defers tile size to Section 09 06 00, SCHEDULE FOR FINISHES. Section 09 06 00, paragraphs 2.5.A and 2.5.B identify two terrazzo tile codes — TT-1 (Wausau, similar to WT2-769 Type 1) and TT-3 (Wausau, similar to WT2-767 Type 3) — both designated "Existing." The Size column is blank for both entries. Wausau Tile's WT2 series is offered in 12", 16", 24", and 12"×24" standard sizes. Section 09 66 16, Part 3.3.A anticipates mixed sizing by specifying separate joint width tolerances for "small tiles" (1/8" max) and "large tiles" (3/16" max).

Please confirm:

(a) The required nominal size for TT-1; and

(b) The required nominal size for TT-3.

Q109 VA Answer: TT-1 will match existing 12’’ x 12’’ tiling present within the surrounding lobby. As mentioned in above RFI, no TT-3 will be used.

Q110:

Section 09 66 16 — Pattern and Proportion of TT-1 and TT-3 Section 09 06 00, paragraphs 2.5.A and 2.5.B identify TT-1 and TT-3 as two distinct required terrazzo tile codes. Neither the specification nor the drawings indicate the proportion or pattern in which TT-1 and TT-3 are to be installed. The Room Finish Schedule (Section 09 06 00, paragraph 3.3.B) assigns TT-1 only to corridor C1-108 and does not reference TT-3. The drawing notes (AD-101 / A-101) state "INSTALL NEW

TILE FLOORING TERRAZZO STYLE TO MATCH 1H121 FLOORING THROUGHOUT

THE CORRIDOR" without specifying proportions.

Please confirm:

(a) The required percentage or pattern of TT-1 vs. TT-3 across the new corridor flooring;

or

(b) Whether the design intent is for the Contractor to field-verify and match the existing 1H121 lobby installation, with the proportion of TT-1 and TT-3 confirmed by sample submittal and COR approval post-award.

Q110 VA Answer: TT-3 will not be used. TT-1 will be installed throughout the surrounding corridors.

Q111:

Drawing Notes vs. Room Finish Schedule — Scope of New Terrazzo Installation Drawing notes on AD-101 / A-101 specify "INSTALL NEW TILE FLOORING

TERRAZZO STYLE TO MATCH 1H121 FLOORING THROUGHOUT THE

CORRIDOR," using "the corridor" in the singular. The Room Finish Schedule (Section 09 06 00, paragraph 3.3.B) lists only corridor C1-108 with a TT floor finish; corridors C1- 106 and C1-107, which also surround the training quad, are not assigned a flooring code in the schedule.

Please confirm:

(a) Which corridors (C1-106, C1-107, and/or C1-108) are to receive new terrazzo-style tile flooring under this contract; and

(b) For any of C1-106, C1-107, and C1-108 that are not receiving new terrazzo, confirm the flooring code or finish (or "existing to remain") that applies in those areas.

Q111 VA Answer: C1-106, C1-107 and C1-108 all will require new terrazzo-style tile, matching existing within 1H121. See reference drawings.

Q112:

Data cable, CAT5, CAT5E, CAT6, CAT6A, which type and who is the approved manufacturers the VA uses?

Q112 VA Answer: CAT6 is to be used and reused (where applicable) for this project as specified in the updated project documents. No specific VA manufacturer is designated, however please abide by the Buy American Act.

Q113:

Podium power: Existing podium furniture feeds, are these circuits concealed or within a wire mold?

Q113 VA Answer: The existing podium power runs down the adjacent wall within conduit and into a flexible sleeve down to the podiums.

Q114:

Podium power: Are new circuits expected to be used for the two podium locations as indicated on E-101. Assuming underground run.

Q114 VA Answer: No, new circuits are not expected to be needed for these new podiums, as the existing podium’s power should be able to be rerouted for the new podiums. However, the Contractor is responsible for confirming that the existing power meets new podium specifications and for installing new power as necessary. Contractor is responsible for verifying and continuing existing power as stated in the SOW.

Q115:

Podium spotlights: plans call for two podium spotlights with lighting switches located adjacent to podium, need a fixture schedule.

*Are these fixtures tying into an existing circuit?

Q115 VA Answer: refer to Q6 VA Answer.

Q116:

Existing panels and lighting controls panel, are there available spares or space?

Q116 VA Answer: Yes

Q117:

Panel schedules?

Q117 VA Answer:

Q118:

After reviewing the solicitation attachments, I noticed we are missing a complete door schedule to work from. We located a brief hardware schedule within the 565-page PDF but not enough info to provide an accurate bid. Will you please provide a complete door schedule and detailed hardware schedule?

Q118 VA Answer: See “Attachment Updated Door Schedules 05-21-2026”. All existing doors within the quad are to remain unchanged. The only new doors included in this scope are the entrance doors, which will be increased in width from 3'-0'' to 3'-6''.

The door hardware is to remain consistent with the existing hardware, despite the revised door width. Although the specifications provide these details, they have been reiterated here for clarity. A 3'-6'' door that already exists outside the project scope has been highlighted as a reference, as it matches the required size."

(END OF RFI Q&A RESPONSES)