S06 VA Response to RFIs Solicitation No. 36C26127Q0072 final.pdf

VA Response to RFIs for Solicitation No. 36C26127Q0072

Replace Dental Vacuum Piping

RFI #1 – We are performing independent research on the Combined Synopsis/Solicitation (36C26127Q0072). We would like to know if this is a brand-new contract OR if there is (was) an incumbent performing these services. If not brand new, could you please provide the current / previous contract number and what the total contract value was?

VA Response: This is a new procurement.

RFI #2 - (Spec 01 00 00 1.3; SOW I.B; Spec 22 62 19.74; Drawing PD100) The base bid says to replace piping from the existing pumps, but the SOW, specs and PD100 call for a new VACSTAR VS90 vacuum system (or equal) with two 80-gal separator tanks and controls. Please confirm whether new vacuum pumps, both separator tanks and controls are part of the base bid.

How many pumps? Does the existing BAS vendor have to do the BAS connection?

VA Response: The base bid shall include a complete new dental vacuum system, including six

(6) vacuum pumps, two (2) 80-gallon separator tanks, and new controls, as scheduled on Sheet P-001. Provide VACSTAR VS90 or approved equal, complete with all accessories and connections required for a fully operational system.

The existing BAS is manufactured by Johnson Controls (JCI). Include coordination with and services of the existing BAS vendor for connection, programming, graphics, and testing required to integrate the new vacuum system into the existing BAS. Include all associated costs in the base bid.

RFI #3 - (SOW II.G; SOW I.Q) The SOW says no work 6:00 AM–6:00 PM, Monday–Friday, but also says basement work can happen during normal hours. Can basement/pump-room work be done during normal hours, or must all labor be priced as after-hours? Will weekend work usually be allowed?

VA Response: For bidding purposes, assume all construction work will occur outside the clinical operating hours stated in the Statement of Work. Weekend and federal-holiday work is not automatically authorized and requires prior written approval from the Contracting Officer.

Bidders shall include any weekend work needed to complete their proposed sequence within the contract duration. After award, the VA may authorize selected basement or pump-room work during normal hours. Such authorization will not, by itself, entitle the Contractor to an adjustment. If the Contractor performs work on simultaneous shifts, qualified supervision, safety, and quality-control coverage are required for each active shift.

RFI #4 - (SOW I.Q) The Pulmonary Suite work must be done within 45 days. What event starts the 45-day window? Can it be split into separate closures? How do liquidated damages apply to this milestone?

VA Response: The facility has coordinated for partial closures of the Pulmonary Suite for a 45-day window. The partial closures are shown on the Appendices as part of the Scope of Work.

The construction limits shown on the Phases must be followed; However, the GC is responsible for providing a sequencing plan for these phase as listed on Part Q of the SOW; Sequencing Plan. Normal Pulmonary Suite operations are slated to re-commence without any construction activities after the 45-day window. Any interruptions after the 45-day window would result in the interruption of planned patient care and the liquidated damages will be applied per FAR Subpart 11.5.

RFI #5 - (SOW I.V, II.K) The SOW requires a Superintendent, Project Manager, full-time SSHO, Alternate Safety Officer and QA/QC Manager, each a different person. Since work is at night only, what are the required onsite hours for the Project Manager and QA/QC Manager – do they need to be on site every shift? Can the Alternate Safety Officer be one of the trade workers?

VA Response: The Superintendent, SSHO and QA/QC Manager shall be present during the entirety of the shift. The Project Manager onsite hours will be set by the General Contractors.

The Alternate SSHO can be a Foreman of the trade worker as long as they meet the requirements per the Specifications.

RFI #6 - (SOW I.I; Spec 02 41 19) Please provide the asbestos/lead survey for the work areas, including locations and estimated quantities, so we can price abatement. Does the abatement contractor need a Nevada asbestos license? Who does the air monitoring and clearance testing – the contractor or the VA?

VA Response: The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System facility was constructed in 2012.

To date, no asbestos-containing materials have been identified within the project work areas.

However, as stated in the Statement of Work, if asbestos-containing materials (ACM) or other regulated hazardous materials are encountered during construction operations, the Contractor shall be responsible for all required abatement, testing, monitoring, oversight, and clearance activities at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall include any associated contingency costs in their proposal.

Any asbestos abatement activities shall be performed by qualified personnel in accordance with all applicable Federal, State of Nevada, and local regulations. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure that any subcontractor performing asbestos abatement holds all licenses and certifications required by the State of Nevada for the work being performed.

Air monitoring and clearance testing shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. Per the contract documents, all required third-party inspections, testing, and reports are to be provided and paid for by the General Contractor.

RFI #7 - What temporary vacuum service and allowable shutdown durations are required to maintain dental operations?

VA Response: The Dental Service has procured standalone vacuum units for each bay in the Suite. The dental suite will be phased by closing one dental bay at a time, allowing clinical operations to continue while work progresses in a controlled and minimally disruptive sequence.

The contractor will be required to provide the sequencing of the closures of the bay.

RFI #8 - Does the 180-day period include badging and equipment procurement, and can badging begin before NTP?

VA Response: The 180 day period of performance includes badging. The badging process will start after NTP. However, the VA will share the forms and procedures prior to NTP. The VA will escort personnel while the badging process is ongoing. The Contractor shall promptly submit complete badging packages after NTP. Delays caused by incomplete or inaccurate Contractor submissions will not extend the period of performance.

RFI #9 – RFI Responses (G-002, GN 4) Confirm RFI responses will be issued by amendment and incorporated into the contract.

VA Response: The VA responses to RFIs will be issued via amendment to SAM.gov.

RFI #10 – Document Discrepancies The SOW header shows Solicitation 36C26126Q1261. Confirm it applies to 36C26127Q0072.

Confirm the “Re-slurry and Re-stripe” PCRA/ILSM attachments and Wage Determination CA20260007 do not apply, and NV20260091 governs.

Provide SOW Appendices A and B.

VA Response: The SOW header showing Solicitation 36C26126Q1261 is a typo. The correct solicitation number is 36C26127Q0072. There were no PCRA/ILSM attachments provided in this solicitation. The ICRA is within the attached SOW. The Wage Determination NV20260091 dated 07-29-2026 is applicable to this solicitation and resultant contract to be awarded. SOW Appendices A and B have already been included in the solicitation within the SOW.

RFI #11 – Pump Package (SOW §O, §I.B; P-001) Confirm the base quote includes new pump package DVP-1 and demolition of the existing pumps.

VA Response: Confirmed the base quote shall include a full replacement of the existing Dental Vacuum Pump system and corresponding equipment. The existing system will be demolished in its entirety.

RFI #12 – Hazardous Materials (SOW §I vs. Spec 02 41 19 §1.6.D) Provide any existing hazardous materials survey.

If none, confirm abatement is excluded and suspect material will be addressed by contract modification.

VA Response: The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System facility was constructed in 2012.

To date, no asbestos-containing materials have been identified within the project work areas.

However, as stated in the Statement of Work, if asbestos-containing materials (ACM) or other regulated hazardous materials are encountered during construction operations, the Contractor shall be responsible for all required abatement, testing, monitoring, oversight, and clearance activities at no additional cost to the Government. The Contractor shall include any associated contingency costs in their proposal.

Any asbestos abatement activities shall be performed by qualified personnel in accordance with all applicable Federal, State of Nevada, and local regulations. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to ensure that any subcontractor performing asbestos abatement holds all licenses and certifications required by the State of Nevada for the work being performed.

Air monitoring and clearance testing shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. Per the contract documents, all required third-party inspections, testing, and reports are to be provided and paid for by the General Contractor.

RFI #13 – Commissioning Agent (G-002 GN 22 vs. Specs 01 91 00, 22 08 00) Confirm whether the VA or the contractor provides the Commissioning Agent.

Provide the Preliminary Commissioning Plan (01 91 00 §1.13.A).

VA Response: The general contractor shall retain and pay for an independent third-party Commissioning Agent (CxA) to commission the dental vacuum system, as required by General Note 22 on Sheet G-002. Include these services in the base bid.

The contractor’s CxA shall develop the Preliminary Commissioning Plan and commissioning/recertification plan for submission to the COR for review and approval. The contractor remains responsible for all commissioning coordination, documentation, testing support, and training required by the contract documents.

RFI #14 – Third-Party Inspections (SOW §H) Confirm third-party inspections are limited to the NFPA 99 leak test, firestopping, and the roof penetration, and that a medical gas verifier and grounding test (26 05 26 §3.8) are not required.

VA Response: The proposed limitation is not accepted. The contractor shall provide independent third-party verification and full recertification of the dental vacuum system affected by this project, including the source equipment, distribution piping, and all connected dental vacuum outlets. A piping leak test alone does not satisfy this requirement.

Provide a qualified independent verifier and all inspections, testing, and certification documentation required by the contract documents. Coordinate this work with the commissioning/recertification plan required by General Note 22 on Sheet G-002.

Required firestopping and roof penetration inspections remain applicable. Refer the requested exclusion of grounding testing under Section 26 05 26, paragraph 3.8, to the electrical engineer;

this response does not waive that requirement.

RFI #15 – Controls / IT (P-001; EP101 KN 2) Identify the BAS points and integration required for the new pumps, and confirm they are limited to the points in Spec 22 62 19.74, the contractor contracts directly with JCI, and VA OIT activates the BD103 data port.

VA Response: Provide the BAS points and integration specified in Section 22 62 19.74 and required to implement the specified sequence of operation. Provide new local pump controls and connect the vacuum system to the existing JCI BAS, as required by Sheet P-001.

The contractor shall contract directly with JCI for the required BAS connection, programming, graphics, and testing. Include all associated costs in the base bid.

Coordinate activation of the BD103 data port with VA OIT. VA OIT shall perform network activation; the contractor shall provide the cabling, terminations, and equipment connections indicated in the contract documents. Submit the coordinated BAS points list and integration details for review.

RFI #16 – Concealed Conditions Will the VA allow a second site walk with ceiling tiles lifted before 11/17?

Provide as-builts of the existing dental vacuum system.

Confirm conditions concealed above ceilings, in shafts, or in slabs fall under FAR 52.236-2.

VA Response: A second pre-bid site visit will not occur. The available as-built drawings are attached to this amendment.

Any condition encountered during construction that meets the requirements of FAR 52.236-2 shall be handled in accordance with the procedures and notification requirements of that clause.

However, bidders remain responsible for reviewing the contract documents and performing reasonable due diligence regarding observable conditions. The existence of concealed conditions above ceilings, within shafts, or within slabs does not automatically constitute a differing site condition. Determination of whether an encountered condition qualifies under FAR 52.236-2 will be made by the Contracting Officer based on the specific facts and circumstances encountered in the field. Contractors shall promptly notify the Contracting Officer upon discovery of any potentially differing site condition and shall not disturb the condition further until directed by the Government.

RFI #17 – Clinic Operation (G-002 GN 15 vs. SOW §Q) G-002 GN 15 states Dental and Pulmonary will be shut down for the project; the SOW requires phased operation. Confirm which governs.

VA Response: Please refer to the Phasing Diagrams shown on Appendix C, Appendix D, and Appendix E for closure areas. These Appendices govern since they have been vetted by the Executive Leadership of the Hospital.

RFI #18 – Dental Bays (SOW §Q, App. C) How many bays, and which rooms are in each?

Confirm a closed bay stays closed continuously until its work is complete.

VA Response: Refer to Appendix C for number of bays and room quantities. Confirmed a closed bay will remain closed continuously until work is completed.

RFI #19 – Pulmonary 45-Day Window (SOW §Q, §S; G-005) Confirm the window runs from turnover to the contractor until the contractor requests final inspection.

G-005 states 60 days. Confirm which governs.

State the liquidated damages rate, if any, and confirm it will not be assessed concurrently with the $1,715/day.

Is daytime work allowed in closed phases?

VA Response: The Scope of Work governs the Period of Performance. The Period of Performance is 180 Calendar Days for the entire project.

The 45-day Pulmonary Suite window consists of 45 consecutive calendar days. The window begins on the date the VA turns over the first Pulmonary Suite phase to the Contractor for construction and ends when all Pulmonary Suite construction, testing, cleaning, infection-control clearance, punch-list work necessary for clinical use, and turnover activities are complete and the affected spaces are accepted by the VA for return to clinical operations.

Work hours within closed Pulmonary Suite phases shall comply with the after-hours requirements of the Statement of Work unless the Contracting Officer provides written approval for alternate hours after award. Any approved daytime work does not extend the 45-day period.

The VA will administer the contract in accordance with the terms and clauses included in the awarded contract. The $1,715 per day amount represents the liquidated damages rate identified in the solicitation/contract documents. No separate or additional liquidated damages rate is contemplated for this project.

RFI #20 – Temporary Vacuum Confirm the existing pumps remain in service during the DVP-1 install.

Confirm no temporary vacuum is required.

State the maximum allowable outage for the final tie-in.

VA Response: The existing pumps will not remain in service. The entire Dental Vacuum System will not be functional as soon as demolition starts. The Dental Service has procured standalone vacuum units for each bay in the Suite.

The Contractor shall develop and submit a detailed Method of Procedure (MOP) identifying the anticipated maximum allowable outage for the final tie-in. All outages must be coordinated with and approved by the VA prior to execution. The duration of the final tie-in outage will be reviewed and approved based on the Contractor’s proposed means and methods and the facility’s operational requirements.

RFI #21 – Work Hours (SOW §G vs. §Q; Spec 01 57 19) Confirm: (a) daytime basement work is allowed; (b) weekends and holidays are open at all hours;

(c) core drilling and saw cutting are allowed at night; (d) GPR is acceptable in lieu of slab X-ray.

VA Response: See RFI #3 for work hours. Core drilling and saw cutting are allowed at night and GPR is acceptable in lieu of slab Xray.

RFI #22 – Shutdown Notice The documents state five different notice periods. Confirm which governs and the VA review time for MOPs.

VA Response: For this project, the Statement of Work requirement governs: utility-shutdown requests shall be submitted to the COR at least 14 calendar days before the proposed interruption. The request must state the reason, date, exact start time, and anticipated duration.

The shutdown may not proceed until the VA has approved the request.

Before work on existing utility services begins, the Contractor shall also submit a written Method of Procedure (MOP) describing the work sequence, tools, safety measures, staffing, contingency measures, and restoration of service. The MOP must be approved by the COR before the interruption occurs.

The contract documents do not establish a separate or guaranteed VA review duration for MOPs.

Therefore, the Contractor shall include the MOP with the shutdown request sufficiently in advance to support the required 14-calendar-day notice period, allow for VA review and revisions, and obtain written approval before the planned outage. Submission of the request does not constitute approval.

RFI #23 – Scheduling (Spec 01 32 16.15, Addendum 1) Confirm an in-house scheduler meeting §1.2.B is acceptable.

Confirm whether the initial schedule is due in 7 or 10 days.

VA Response: An in-house scheduler is acceptable provided the individual meets the qualifications specified in Section 01 32 16.15 - 1.2.B

The Initial Schedule is due within seven (7) calendar days after Notice to Proceed (NTP) in accordance with Section 01 32 16.15 - 1.3.A.1.

RFI #24 – ICRA Levels The SOW, G-002, and G-003 to G-006 assign conflicting levels (Dental II/IV, Pulmonary IV/II, Eye II/IV, Basement II/I). Confirm the governing level per area and whether final permits will be issued before bid.

VA Response: For Infection Control Risk Assessment Designation Levels the Scope of Work governs. Refer to Appendix C, Appendix D, and Appendix E for designated ICRA Levels. Refer to Appendix B for Infection Control Risk Assessment Form. The ICRA forms will be submitted for permitting once the VA has accepted the Sequencing Plan with dates from the General Contractor as described on the Scope of Work.

RFI #25 – Barriers (G-002 Det. 5/6; A-102) Where Level IV applies, confirm prefabricated barrier walls, mobile carts, and window exhaust are acceptable.

VA Response: Yes. For areas requiring ICRA Level IV containment, the use of prefabricated barrier wall systems, mobile containment carts, and window-mounted exhaust/negative air systems is acceptable, provided they comply with Appendix B for Infection Control Risk Assessment Form.

RFI #26 – Eye Clinic Corridors (G-002 GN 16; App. E) May barriers remain in place between shifts?

Define “Single Point of Access per Night Shift.”

VA Response: No, the temporary barriers cannot remain in place. The temporary barriers in the Eye Clinic may be erected at the beginning of each shift. The temporary barriers will need to be removed at the end of each shift. The corridor space must not present any obstacles or debris that would impede patient use during normal operation hours.

“Single Point of Access per Night Shift” means that each active contained work area shall have one designated controlled entrance and exit during the shift. All workers, tools, and materials shall pass through that controlled access point, which shall include the infection-control measures required by the approved ICRA.

RFI #27 – Seismic (Spec 13 05 41; 22 62 19.74 §3.1.A) The spec states Category B, but its values (Ss 0.9 / S1 0.8) and Project 593-22-350 on this campus indicate Category D. Confirm the category and whether piping bracing, pump anchorage, and special certification are required.

VA Response: The project is in a building classified as a Critical Facility under VA H-18-8.

Seismic restraint of nonstructural components shall therefore be designed for Seismic Design Category D, in accordance with Section 13 05 41, VA H-18-8, ASCE 7 and ASCE 41. This supersedes the Seismic Design Category B shown in Section 13 05 41, Paragraph 1.1.B.

Seismic restraint is a delegated design. The contractor’s delegated professional structural engineer, registered in the State of Nevada, shall design all anchorage and bracing and submit sealed drawings and calculations in accordance with Section 13 05 41, Paragraphs 1.3 and 1.4.

No seismic restraint shall be installed until the COR has approved the submittal.

At a minimum, the following components require seismic anchorage:

1. DVP-1, dental vacuum pump

2. Two (2) 80-gallon separator tanks associated with DVP-1

3. AMG-2, new wall-mounted amalgam separator

The delegated engineer shall evaluate the following for seismic restraint:

1. New 5-inch dental vacuum piping

2. New 6-inch dental vacuum piping

3. Pipe risers and trapeze supports.

These components are not required to remain operational immediately after a seismic event.

Special Seismic Certification under ASCE 7 Section 13.2.2 is therefore not anticipated for these components. The delegated engineer shall confirm this in the seismic submittal.

RFI #28 – Piping Material Are the Pulmonary and Eye Clinic ceilings return-air plenums? If so, what is acceptable in lieu of Sch 80 PVC?

VA Response: The ceiling spaces in the Pulmonary and Eye Clinics are not return-air plenums.

Return air is fully ducted. Provide Schedule 80 PVC piping as specified; an alternate material is not required on the basis of plenum restrictions.

RFI #29 – Roofing (A-104; PD102) Is the roof SBS or liquid-applied, and is a manufacturer warranty in effect?

Is the exhaust on the first- or second-floor roof?

VA Response: The installed roofing system is a liquid-applied roof restoration system, not an SBS membrane roof. The restoration assembly consists of the Tremco AlphaGuard BIO System, which includes a liquid-applied polyurethane base coat and top coat reinforced with polyester fabric, installed over the existing roof substrate.

A manufacturer 20 year warranty is anticipated but has not yet been issued. The project is currently in the closeout phase, and the final manufacturer warranty documentation from Tremco is expected to be received within the next several weeks. Upon receipt, the warranty certificate will be provided as part of the project closeout package.

Refer to the attachment for Roofing Material Specifications.

The exhaust penetration is located on the second-floor roof.

RFI #30 – Access Panel Rating A-100 states 90 minutes; A-101 states 2 hours. Confirm the rating.

VA Response: Install 90 minutes access door in 2 hours rated chase wall.

RFI #31 – Elevator / Staging Which elevator is assigned (G-001 Bldg 6 vs. G-002 Bldg 1 S-4), and is it available after hours?

Identify the laydown area and available power.

VA Response: Elevators for access are in the Basement Level; which will be accessible through the Loading Dock. Refer to the attachment for Site Logistics for additional information.

The VA will provide reasonable access to existing electrical power within the facility for construction activities. The Contractor shall be responsible for furnishing all temporary power distribution equipment, cords, transformers, panels, adapters, grounding, GFCI protection, and other equipment necessary to safely distribute and utilize the available power.

RFI #32 – Personnel Must the Superintendent, SSHO, and QC Manager all be on site every shift?

May the QC Manager or SSHO serve as Commissioning Manager?

VA Response: The Superintendent, SSHO and QA/QC Manager shall be present during the entirety of the shift.

Yes. The QC Manager or Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) may serve as the Contractor's Commissioning Manager/Commissioning Coordinator, provided the individual satisfies the qualifications and responsibilities specified in the contract documents and can adequately perform all assigned duties for each role.

RFI #33 – Badging Will the VA escort personnel for field verification before badges are issued?

VA Response: Yes, the VA will escort personnel while the badging process is ongoing.

RFI #34 – TB Screening The spec requires screening within 90 days; the SOW allows 12 months. Confirm which governs.

VA Response: The SOW governs.

RFI #35 – As-Builts Confirm PDF and DWG are acceptable with no Revit model, and whether the VA will provide CAD files.

VA Response: The VA will provide available CAD backgrounds after award for reference and record-drawing preparation. Final record drawings shall be submitted in searchable PDF and editable DWG format. A Revit model is not required. The Contractor remains responsible for field verification and for incorporating all installed conditions, routing, equipment data, valve locations, controls, and deviations into the final record drawings.

RFI #36 – Inapplicable Specifications Confirm the NPDES permit, erosion control, structural survey, contractor wireless network, and LEED requirements do not apply.

VA Response: NPDES permit, erosion control, structural survey, and LEED requirements do not apply.

Contactor wireless network may be needed for commissioning purposes, refer to 01 91 00 3.5.C and confirm with Commissioning Agent.

RFI #37 – Tax Status Confirm whether this project is exempt from Nevada sales and use tax.

VA Response: This project is not exempt.

RFI #38 – Hazardous materials (Ref: SOW I (Hazardous materials); Spec 02 41 19 1.6.D, 1.6.D.1): The SOW makes the Contractor responsible for ACM removal where it occurs in the work area; Spec 02 41 19 1.6.D.1 states hazardous materials will be removed by the Owner under a separate contract. Which governs? If the Contractor, will a hazardous materials survey identifying ACM type, location and quantity in the work areas be provided?

VA Response: The requirements of the Statement of Work, Section I. Hazardous Materials, govern this project. The Contractor shall be responsible for asbestos-containing material (ACM) removal and mitigation encountered within the project work area, including all associated testing, monitoring, oversight, clearance, and disposal activities, at no additional cost to the Government.

Specification Section 02 41 19 §1.6.D and §1.6.D.1 should be interpreted to apply to hazardous materials that are identified by the Owner and specifically removed under a separate contract. No separate hazardous-material-abatement contract is contemplated under this project.

The facility was constructed in 2012, and no asbestos-containing materials have been identified in the project work areas to date. No hazardous materials survey identifying ACM type, location, or quantity is available for distribution under this solicitation.

If regulated hazardous materials are encountered during construction, the Contractor shall comply with all applicable federal, state, local, and contract requirements and shall manage the condition in accordance with the contract provisions, including any applicable differing site condition procedures.

RFI #39 – ICRA level - Dental Clinic and Eye Clinic (Ref: SOW I.L; SOW Appendix C (Sheet A-003) and Appendix E (Sheet A-002); Sheet G-002 ICRA notes; ICRA permits on Sheets G- 004 and G-006): SOW I.L, SOW Appendix C (A-003) and Appendix E (A-002) and the Sheet G-002 ICRA notes designate the Dental Suite and Eye Clinic as ICRA Level II. The ICRA permits on Sheet G-006 (Dental Clinic) and Sheet G-004 (Eye Clinic) show Patient Risk High, Activity Category C, Level IV. Which ICRA level applies to the Dental Clinic and the Eye Clinic work?

VA Response: For Infection Control Risk Assessment Designation Levels the Scope of Work governs. Refer to Appendix C, Appendix D, and Appendix E for designated ICRA Levels. Refer to Appendix B for Infection Control Risk Assessment Form. The ICRA forms will be submitted for permitting once the VA has accepted the Sequencing Plan with dates from the General Contractor as described on the Scope of Work.

RFI #40 – Commissioning Agent (Ref: Sheet G-002 General Note 22; SOW I.P; Spec 01 91 00 1.8.C.1; Spec 22 08 00): Sheet G-002 General Note 22 makes the General Contractor responsible for attaining a third-party commissioning agent to commission the vacuum system. Spec 01 91 00 1.8.C.1 states the VA will engage the Commissioning Agent under a separate contract. Is the Commissioning Agent to be engaged by the Contractor or by the VA?

VA Response: See response on RFI #13.

RFI #41 – Dental Clinic and Pulmonary Suite shutdown (Ref: Sheet G-002 General Note 15;

SOW I (introduction); SOW I.C; SOW I.Q (Dental Suite, Pulmonary Suite)): Sheet G-002 General Note 15 states the Dental Clinic and Pulmonary will be shut down for the duration of the project. The SOW introduction and SOW I.C state the dental suite will remain operational throughout construction, and SOW I.Q phases the Dental Suite one bay at a time and the Pulmonary Suite in portions. Will the Dental Clinic and Pulmonary Suite be shut down for the duration of the project, or remain operational with the phased closures in SOW I.Q?

VA Response: For Clinical Shutdown timeframes the durations described on the Scope of Work and shown on Appendix C, Appendix D, and Appendix E govern.

RFI #42 – Dental vacuum service during cutover (Ref: SOW I (introduction); Spec 01 00 00 1.7.H.1; Sheet PD100 Key Notes 1 and 2; Sheet PG100 Sheet Note B): The SOW states the dental suite will remain operational throughout construction, and Spec 01 00 00 1.7.H.1 requires any service interruption to be put back into service by 6 am the following day. Sheet PD100 Key Notes 1 and 2 demolish the existing vacuum pumps, piping and separator tanks completely, and PG100 Sheet Note B makes the final connection during system shutdown. Is the Contractor to provide temporary dental vacuum service during the changeover from the existing to the new system, or will an outage longer than one night be permitted?

VA Response: For Clinical Shutdown timeframes the durations described on the Scope of Work and shown on Appendix C, Appendix D, and Appendix E govern. Temporary Dental Vacuum measure will not be required. Temporary units have been procured under a separate contract to ensure the Dental Clinic is operational during construction.

RFI #43 – Pulmonary Suite duration (Ref: SOW I.Q (Pulmonary Suite); SOW S (Liquidated Damages); Sheet G-005 ICRA permit): SOW I.Q requires all Pulmonary Suite work to be completed within a 45-day window; the ICRA permit on Sheet G-005 lists the Pulmonary Clinic approximate duration as 66 days. Which duration governs the Pulmonary Suite work, and is it measured in consecutive calendar days?

VA Response: The Scope of Work governs the Period of Performance and Clinical Shutdown durations. The Period of Performance is 180 Calendar Days for the entire project. The Pulmonary Suite work will need to be completed within a 45-day window.

RFI #44 – Hours of work - Basement (Ref: SOW I.Q (Basement); SOW II.G): SOW I.Q states Basement activities can take place during normal operating hours; SOW II.G states no work shall occur 6:00 AM-6:00 PM Monday-Friday and all labor is to be quoted after hours. May Basement work be performed and quoted during normal hours?

VA Response: See RFI #3 for work hours.

RFI #45 – Elevator use (Ref: Spec 01 00 00 1.15.A, 1.15.B.1; Sheet G-002 General Note 14;

SOW II.G): Spec 01 00 00 1.15.A states the Contractor will not be allowed the use of existing elevators and an outside type hoist shall be used; 1.15.B.1 permits elevators P5 and P6 in Building 1 between 8 am and 5 pm; Sheet G-002 General Note 14 designates service elevator S- 4 in Building 1 for materials delivery; SOW II.G requires all work outside 6:00 AM-6:00 PM.

Which elevator(s) may the Contractor use for personnel and materials during after-hours work?

VA Response: The elevators located within the Basement are available for Contractor use during their shifts. Please refer to attached Site Logistics Plan for Elevator location.

RFI #46 – Roof system, manufacturer and warranty (Ref: Sheet A-104 Sheet Notes A through F;

A-104 Key Note 1): A-104 Sheet Notes A through E state a re-roofing project is scheduled for the repair area, the existing system at design was 2-ply SBS, and the COR will clarify the system in place and the VA will provide the manufacturer and warranty at the time of bidding. Please identify the roof system currently installed in the repair area (2-ply SBS modified bitumen or liquid-applied), its manufacturer, and the warranty holder and terms to be maintained.

VA Response: The installed roofing system is a liquid-applied roof restoration system, not an SBS membrane roof. The restoration assembly consists of the Tremco AlphaGuard BIO System, which includes a liquid-applied polyurethane base coat and top coat reinforced with polyester fabric, installed over the existing roof substrate.

A manufacturer 20 year warranty is anticipated but has not yet been issued. The project is currently in the closeout phase, and the final manufacturer warranty documentation from Tremco is expected to be received within the next several weeks. Upon receipt, the warranty certificate will be provided as part of the project closeout package.

Refer to the attachment for Roofing Material Specifications.

RFI #47 – Project Manager on campus (Ref: SOW I.V; SOW II.K): SOW I.V requires the General Contractor's Superintendent, Project Manager, Site Safety and Health Officer and QA/QC Manager to be on campus. Is the Contractor's Project Manager required to be on campus full time during all work shifts, or as needed for meetings, inspections and coordination?

VA Response: The Superintendent, SSHO and QA/QC Manager shall be present during the entirety of the shift. The Project Manager onsite hours will be set by the General Contractors.

RFI #48 – Weekend and Holiday Work (Ref: SOW II.G; SOW I.Q, Eye Clinic): SOW II.G says weekend or holiday work needs written approval from the Contracting Officer. SOW I.Q says the eye glass fitting room may need to be done at night or over a long weekend. Should we price any weekend work, either for the fitting room or for the project in general, or price everything as weeknight work from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM?

VA Response: See RFI #3 for work hours.

RFI #49 – Utility Shutdown Notice (Ref: SOW I.T; Spec 01 00 00, 1.6.J.2 and 1.6.J.4): SOW I.T says shutdowns can't happen until 14 days after the request is approved. Spec 1.6.J.2 asks for the request 7 days ahead, and 1.6.J.4 asks for 15 business days on major interruptions. Which notice period should we use when scheduling the vacuum, plumbing and electrical shutdowns?

VA Response: The SOW governs.

RFI #50 – Liquidated Damages for the Pulmonary Suite (Ref: SOW I.Q, Pulmonary Suite; SOW Section S, Liquidated Damages): SOW I.Q says the VA may assess liquidated damages if the 45-day Pulmonary Suite window is missed. SOW Section S sets liquidated damages at $1,715 per calendar day for late completion of the project. Is the $1,715 rate the one that applies to the Pulmonary window, or is there a separate rate? Could both be charged for the same days?

VA Response: The contract establishes a liquidated damages rate of $1,715 per calendar day.

No separate liquidated damages rate has been identified for the Pulmonary Suite milestone.

The Government does not intend to assess multiple liquidated damages rates concurrently for the same period of delay. Therefore, if liquidated damages are assessed for delays associated with the Pulmonary Suite milestone and the overall project completion, they will not be assessed twice for the same calendar day.

RFI #51 – Missing Spec Sections (Ref: SOW I.E, I.G and I.I; Sheet A-104; Project Specifications): The SOW describes fire protection (firestopping, alarms and sprinklers), HVAC and ductwork, and telecom changes, and A-104 shows roof work. We did not find Division 21, 23, 27 or 28 sections, or a roofing section, in the spec book. Is this work part of the base quote?

If so, which drawings and specs should we follow?

VA Response: No DIV 23 is not required. There is no mechanical work on this project. DIV 21 wet sprinkler can be provided after award if needed. Sprinkler work would be limited to any modification in the basement mech room if need for new equipment lay out.

Per New Keynote 2 on Sheet A-104, fill all roof penetrations no longer in use with 2-hour fire stopping.

The restoration assembly consists of the Tremco AlphaGuard BIO System, which includes a liquid-applied polyurethane base coat and top coat reinforced with polyester fabric, installed over the existing roof substrate. Refer to RFI# 29.

RFI #52 – Schedule Submittal Timing (Ref: SOW II.I; Spec 01 32 16.15, 1.3.A.1): SOW II.I asks for the CPM schedule within 10 calendar days of NTP. Spec 01 32 16.15, 1.3.A.1 asks for the initial schedule within 7 calendar days. Which one applies?

VA Response: The Initial Schedule is due within seven (7) calendar days after Notice to Proceed (NTP) in accordance with Section 01 32 16.15 - 1.3.A.1.

RFI #53 – Schedule Software and File Format (Ref: Spec 01 32 16.15, 1.7.A.2 and 1.8.B.3):

Spec 1.7.A.2 allows the schedule to be prepared in either Primavera P6 (Version 22 or higher) or Microsoft Project Professional (2021 or higher). Spec 1.8.B.3 asks for a Primavera Version 6.0 compatible electronic file with each submission. If we schedule in Microsoft Project, will the native .mpp file and a PDF be accepted, or do we need to convert and submit a P6 (.xer) file each time?

VA Response: Yes. Microsoft Project Professional 2021 or higher is acceptable per 1.7.A.2.

Schedules prepared in Microsoft Project shall be submitted in accordance with 1.8.C, which requires the native .mpp file; conversion to a Primavera (.xer) file is not required. Paragraph 1.8.B.3 applies only to schedules prepared in Primavera. Each submission shall include the transmittal letter, narrative report, native .mpp file, and the reports listed in 1.8.C.3.a through f.

A PDF alone does not satisfy the requirement; monthly payment applications shall include both PDF and native schedule files per 1.10.A.

RFI #54 – Cost Loading of General Conditions (Ref: Spec 01 32 16.15, 1.5.A): Spec 1.5.A says overhead, profit and general conditions are to be spread proportionally across all activities. Can bonds, insurance, mobilization and submittal preparation be shown as their own cost-loaded activities early in the schedule, or do they also have to be spread across the construction activities?

VA Response: Bonds, insurance, and limited mobilization cost associated with preparatory work (site trailers, staging areas, haul roads, etc.) may be shown as separate cost-loaded activities early in the schedule, consistent with 1.8.E.7.b. All other overhead, profit, and general conditions, including submittal preparation, shall be distributed proportionally across the work activities per 1.5.A. Submittals and Government review shall be shown as activities without cost per 1.7.B.5.d.

RFI #55 – Alternate SSHO, Alternate CQC Manager and Collateral Duties (Ref: SOW I.V;

SOW II.K; Spec 01 35 26, 1.9; Spec 01 45 00, CQC System Manager): SOW I.V says the Superintendent, Project Manager, SSHO and QA/QC Manager must each be a separate person.

Spec 01 35 26, 1.9 also requires an Alternate Safety Officer and allows a Designated Representative with collateral duties when the SSHO is off site for up to 8 hours. Spec 01 45 00 requires an alternate CQC System Manager. Can the alternates and the Designated Representative be filled by other project staff, such as the Project Manager or a foreman, when they are only covering an absence?

VA Response: Yes. The requirement that the Superintendent, Project Manager, SSHO, and QA/QC Manager be separate individuals applies to the primary positions assigned to the project.

For temporary coverage during an approved absence, the Alternate SSHO, Alternate CQC System Manager, or Designated Representative may be filled by other project personnel, including the Project Manager and Superintendent as long they meet the requirements listed on the Specifications.

RFI #56 – Key Personnel on Each Shift (Ref: SOW I.Q, Basement; SOW II.G; Spec 01 35 26, 1.9; Spec 01 45 00, CQC System Manager): Spec 01 35 26, 1.9 requires a full-time SSHO for each shift, and Spec 01 45 00 requires the CQC System Manager on site at all times during construction. If basement work is allowed during the day (RFI #7) while the clinic work happens at night, do we need a separate full-time SSHO, CQC Manager and Superintendent on each shift?

VA Response: Yes. If the Contractor elects to perform construction activities on multiple shifts, the Contractor shall provide project supervision, safety oversight, and quality control coverage for each shift during which work is being performed.

For concurrent shifts, each shift must have continuous Superintendent, SSHO, and QA/QC coverage. Unless expressly allowed elsewhere in the contract, the required primary roles must remain separate. Qualified approved alternates may provide coverage, but one individual may not simultaneously cover multiple active shifts or perform incompatible duties.