RFI Notice 01 - Solicitation No. 36C26226B0017.pdf

Request for Information (RFI) Notice 01

Solicitation # 36C26226B0017

Prescott Replace Steam Boilers

(Project # 649-22-104) VA Responses in Red

1. Reference Attachment 01: Statement of Work (SOW). The SOW states: “The Contractor shall utilize the construction documents and specifications as prepared by RDC + EA, LLLP.” It also states: “The Contractor shall perform work in strict accordance with the

General Specifications, Statement of Work, Design, Schedule, and all other supporting documents for this contract...” Given these provisions, can the VA clarify how the Scope of Work (SOW) is to be interpreted relative to the plans and specifications? Specifically, does the SOW take precedence over the plans or specifications? If not, can the VA please confirm the established order of precedence for this project?

The Contractor shall review and comply with all the contract documents and shall not rely on any single document to the exclusion of another. The order of precedence is not intended to relieve the contractor from complying with all applicable contract requirements. The order of precedence shall only be applied when an actual conflict, discrepancy, or inconsistency exists between contract documents. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer of any discrepancies for resolution.

General order of precedence:

1. Contract clauses and provisions (FAR/VAAR)

2. Specifications

3. Drawings

4. Statement of Work

5. Other documents

2. Reference Solicitation 4.1 STATEMENT OF BID ITEM(S). The para states: “The

Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, equipment, certification, supervision, and personnel necessary to complete the Prescott Replace Steam Boilers project for the

Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern Arizona Healthcare System (NAVAHCS), in accordance with the attached Statement of Work, Specifications and Drawings, which are incorporated herein by reference.” Given these provisions, can the VA clarify how the

Scope of Work (SOW) is to be interpreted relative to the plans and specifications?

Specifically, does the SOW take precedence over the plans or specifications? If not, can the VA please confirm the established order of precedence for this project?

The Contractor shall review and comply with all the contract documents and shall not rely on any single document to the exclusion of another. The order of precedence is not intended to relieve the contractor from complying with all applicable contract requirements. The order of precedence shall only be applied when an actual conflict, discrepancy, or inconsistency exists between contract documents. The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer of any discrepancies for resolution.

Project # 649-22-104

General order of precedence:

1. Contract clauses and provisions (FAR/VAAR)

2. Specifications

3. Drawings

4. Statement of Work

5. Other documents

3. Reference SOW - BACKGROUND / DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Quoted text:

“Building 111 is not listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), however it is located on in Fort Whipple Historic District. Although no changes inside the buildings need to be approved through the Arizona SHPO, all excavation work needs to be approved. All excavation work requires archeological monitoring, regardless of the depth, unless the area has been previously disturbed. However, this must be reviewed by

SHPO prior to the start of the excavation. If monitoring is required the certification requirements for the monitor can be found at https://www.doi.gov/pam/asset-management/historic-preservation/pqs”

The following information was found online:

“Archaeological monitoring will accompany all ground disturbing activities associated with construction of these Projects that are within Moderate or High Sensitivity Areas, as shown on the VAMC Archaeological Sensitivity Map. This document describes the procedures, protocols, and responsibilities of the archaeological monitoring crew and

Project construction contractors. Any archaeological surface and subsurface investigations, site testing, construction, or other project activities that involve surface or substrate disturbance will require the participation of an archaeologist that meets the

Secretary of the Interior’s standards for a professional archaeologist as defined in 36 CFR

61 Appendix A (qualified archaeologist). “

Based on the above, can the VA confirm whether a VAMC Archaeological Sensitivity

Map and/or a document outlining the referenced procedures (Discovery Protocols) is available? Additionally, does the VA have information indicating whether the project’s area of disturbance has been previously disturbed, and if so, is there an associated report documenting those findings?

The boiler plant project is located in a moderately sensitive zone. Since the final underground utility route has not been fully determined, Contractors shall assume all soils are previously undisturbed and archeological monitoring is required. See attached

VAMC Archeological Sensitivity Map.

4. Reference SOW - BACKGROUND / DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Quoted text: “The temporary office trailer will house seven workstations and a restroom with toilet and sink; with line of sight of all boilers.” Can the VA confirm that the office trailers are to be configured with windows positioned to allow visibility of the temporary boilers from seven desk locations, as indicated on Drawing GI‑003, Sheet Note #2 - or three desks positioned to allow visibility as shown on drawing D7/EP101?

The Contractor shall consider the orientation of the office trailer and configuration / placement of the workstations to maximize visibility of the temporary boilers from as many workstations as practical.

5. Reference SOW - COMMENCEMENT, COMPLETION, AND PAYMENT FOR

WORK: Can the VA further clarify the intent of this statement? “At the government’s option, it may choose to specify a two-stage performance period. For example, separating material lead-time from construction days can considerably decrease the length of time occupied buildings are inconvenienced by construction.”

The two-stage performance period contracting option, utilized for long-lead equipment procurements, is for informational purposes. No separate procurement phase or two-stage performance period is currently established for this project. For this solicitation, bidders shall base their proposals on the performance period stated in the solicitation.

6. Reference General Decision for Wage Rates: The AZ20260043 does not include a

“Glazier” classification. Are we to use the Carpenter rates?

Please use the applicable Davis-Bacon Classification that most closely corresponds to the work performed. The Government does not interpret wage determination.

7. Reference 52.232-5 Payments under Fixed-Price Construction Contracts

FAR Excerpt “Contracting Officer may authorize material delivered on the site and preparatory work done to be taken into consideration. Material delivered to the

Contractor at locations other than the site also may be taken into consideration if-

(i) Consideration is specifically authorized by this contract; and

(ii) The Contractor furnishes satisfactory evidence that it has acquired title to such material and that the material will be used to perform this contract.”

Pursuant to the referenced FAR provision, and in consideration of the substantial cost required to fabricate and procure the three boilers and associated ancillary materials, please confirm whether the VA will consider approving progress payments upon delivery of these materials to the project site, which meets the standards of quality established under the contract, as approved by the Contracting Officer?

The Contracting Officer may authorize progress payments for materials delivered to the site or stored offsite (with proper evidence of title, insurance, and storage) per FAR

52.232-5 and VAAR 852.232-70. Approval will be considered for major long-lead items such as boilers upon submittal of required documentation.

8. Reference 01 32 16.15 Project Schedules (Small Projects – Design/Bid/Build): It does not appear that any specification related to schedules was provided. Does the VA intend to provide an edited version of a schedule specification?

The applicable schedule specification for project is Section 01 32 16.13, Network

Analysis Schedules – Major Construction Project Design-Bid-Build. Although the project is classified as a NRM (Non-Recurring Maintenance), due to size, complexity and critical nature of project, the Contractor shall follow Section 01 32 16.13. See attached

Specification Section 01 32 16.13.

9. Reference 01 91 00 General Commissioning Requirements: The Specification TOC has the spec version being 10-15. The TIL has a version 4-22. Are we to follow the 10-15 version provided as the TOC date reflects or does the VA plan to provide the latest section?

Specification TOC date is incorrect and does not reflect the specification within the

Contract Specification document. Section 01 91 00 - General Commissioning

Requirements specification within the Contract Specifications is current, dated 04-01-22.

See attached corrected Section 00 01 10 – Revised Table of Contents.

10. Reference 02 21 13 Site Surveys, para 1.1 SUMMARY

This para references:

A. Section Includes:

1. Researching and collecting documents informing surveys.

2. Performing topographic survey and utility survey.

3. Creating survey drawings.

No requirements are specified on what appears to be the only Civil sheet CU-1 for the above list other than note #4 on CU-1. Can the VA clarify if any of the above is required by the specification or are we to follow the notes on CU-1?

The Contractor shall comply with the requirements of Section 02 21 13 Site Surveys, including researching and collecting documents, performing topographic and utility surveys and preparing utility survey drawings. Utility survey requirements include locating existing above-ground and below-ground utilities within the limits necessary to perform the work.

11. Reference 02 21 13 1.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE

This para references:

A. Land Surveyor: One of the following:

1. Experienced professional land surveyor licensed in state in which project is located.

2. Experienced professional civil engineer licensed in state in which project is located and authorized to practice land surveying as civil engineer.

Can the VA clarify if the above is required by the specification considering much of the

UG is temporary?

A licensed professional land surveyor / civil engineer authorized to practice land surveying in the State of Arizona shall perform and be responsible for the required topographic and utility surveys used to establish and document the existing site conditions and existing utilities, prior to excavation.

12. Reference Civil CAD/ or As-built site UG files: Can the VA provide the available UG

Civil utility files for use prior to bid?

Available underground utility as-builts will be provided as solicitation attachment. Files are for informational purposes only and not guaranteed to be complete, accurate or reflect the current conditions. The Contractor remains fully responsible for field verification of all existing utilities and coordination. See attached Utilities Drawing.

13. Reference 23 52 33 WATER TUBE BOILERS: Can the VA provide any state or local emission requirements to include any special testing requirements that are required for any air permitting?

The Contractor is responsible for determining applicable local, state, and federal requirements. The Contractor is responsible for determining applicable air emissions permit requirements with Arizona Department of Environmental Quality prior to boiler procurement and installation. If new boilers require new or modified air quality permit, the Contractor shall initiate the permitting process. Any required stack testing or emissions performance testing shall be included in Contractor’s cope and cost. The VA will provide assistance in coordinating with ADEQ as federal facility owner where required, but permit application preparation and submission is the Contractor’s responsibility.

14. Sheet SE-100 has a note for HSS4x4x5/16 with 4 arrows pointing around column lines A3, but there appear to be only 2 columns where the arrows point. Please confirm there should be 4 columns.

This is correct, there are meant to be 4 columns for each of the three locations or at the end of each arrow.

15. The window schedule shows window type C as hollow metal and type D as Aluminum.

These are right next to each other, as shown on sheet AE-202 detail 1. What is in between these two window types, column, framed column? I recommend that window type C adjacent to D should be type D also and the thing installed as one storefront system.

Yes, both window type C and D should be anodized aluminum storefront windows.

16. General note 1 on sheet EE002 states to install all cables inside raceway systems, then it says that where raceway systems have not been installed, you can use J hooks. Please clarify the amount of existing raceway that is to be used for low voltage cable so bidders can determine correct quantities of J hooks. Clarify if this applies to CAT6A cables.

Upon review, there is no existing raceway in the existing building of the project.

17. There is an empty keynote symbol on sheet ED101 with no number. Please advise what the number should be.

This is keynote 4.

18. Please clarify the fire water scope of work. Sheet CU-1 shows a new fire water line stopped and capped 5’ from the building. Sheet FX101 shows what appears to be a new fire riser. Neither line appears to line up nor show a connection. Is the riser existing? What are we supposed to do with the new underground fire water? Is that for another project?

The intent is to install a new 6-inch fire line to the building, a new fire riser, and a new fire suppression system, as shown on Sheet FX101. The fire water scope includes a current hydrant flow test to verify the available water supply for the new fire riser and sprinkler system. Sheet CU-1 and Sheet FX101 should be coordinated, as they currently do not align. Revise Sheet CU-1 to match the fire water scope and layout shown on

Sheet FX101.

19. Specification Section 01 35 26 part 1.7, does not specifically state that the SSHO must be a separate person from the superintendent with no other roles. That being the case please clarify that the project superintendent, if qualified, may also act as the SSHO?

The requirements for onsite personnel are as specified in Section 01 35 26 (Safety

Requirements) and Section 01 45 00 (Quality Control). The Superintendent, Quality

Control Manager (QC), and Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) must be provided as three separate individuals unless otherwise approved by the Contracting Officer per the specifications.

20. Specification Section 01 35 26-part 1.13 references TB test requirements. Since work will not occur in the main hospital or patient areas will the VA waive this requirement?

Tuberculosis (TB) screening is required for all personnel working on VA property per

VA Directive 5019 and Section 01 35 26 (Safety Requirements), to ensure compliance with infection control standards.

21. Please confirm per paragraph 1.4.B of section 01 45 00 that the Superintendent may also fill in the role of QC Manager?

Control Manager (QC), and Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) must be provided as

22. For further clarification on project personnel, please confirm that the GC is required to have the following on-site at all times: project superintendent/QC and SSHO, for a total of 2 separate qualified individuals.

Control Manager (QC), and Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) must be provided as

23. Paragraph 1.4.C lists a matrix of additional CQC personnel required to be on site at all times during the specialized person’s area of responsibility. It also states that they cannot be employed by a supplier or subcontractor. This means that the GC would need to employ multiple engineers/experienced personnel to be on-site at all times, which would greatly increase the cost of construction to the government over the course of two years.

Please confirm that these personnel will not be required and that the subcontractors experienced foreman can act in this role.

Specification 01 45 00 states specialized personnel “physically present at the construction site during work on the specialized personnel’s areas of responsibility; have the necessary education or experience in accordance with the Experience Matrix listed herein. These individuals can perform other duties but need to be allowed sufficient time to perform the specialized personnel’s assigned quality controls duties as described in the CQC Plan.”

The Superintendent or QC Manager (separate roles) may act as specialized personnel provided they meet the required qualifications for that specialty and approved by the

Contracting Officer.

24. The contract drawings indicate installation of three (3) fuel oil storage tanks serving the boiler plant. The fuel oil diagrams identify the tanks and associated piping connections;

however, the contract documents do not clearly define several parameters necessary for contractor estimating, procurement, and construction planning. Exact physical location of the new fuel oil tanks relative to Building 111 (site plan layout). Tank installation type

(aboveground, underground, vault, or contained basin). Tank construction requirements, including material and whether tanks must be double-walled. Secondary containment requirements and required containment volume. Foundation requirements, including concrete pad design, saddles, and anchoring. Fuel tank venting requirements, including vent stack location and height. Fuel delivery fill connection location for tanker trucks.

Leak detection or environmental monitoring requirements. Any environmental, fire code, or VA facility requirements beyond NFPA 30 and NFPA 31.

Please provide the following:

a. Confirmation of the required fuel tank construction type and capacity.

b. Drawing or detail showing the exact tank location on the site.

c. Structural or civil details required for installation.

d. Confirmation whether existing tanks are removed, reused, or replaced.

e. Identification of the specification section governing the fuel oil storage tanks.

The existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks (GI003 and ME606) will remain in place (not removed or replaced). The three (3) 10,000 gallon above ground tanks will remain in service. They will be tied into temporary boilers, see sheets

MP101 and ME609 for routing and connections.

25. Contract documents indicate the installation of temporary boilers during the construction phase. The drawings show connections for temporary steam and natural gas systems; however, the fuel oil supply requirements for temporary boilers are not clearly defined. It is unclear whether temporary boilers are intended to operate on natural gas, fuel oil, or dual fuel during construction. The drawings do not clearly identify a temporary fuel storage tank, temporary fuel oil piping, or a connection point to an existing fuel oil system. Please clarify the following:

a. Confirm the intended fuel source for temporary boilers (natural gas, fuel oil, or dual fuel).

b. If fuel oil is required, identify whether temporary fuel storage tanks are required.

c. Provide location and capacity requirements for temporary fuel tanks if applicable.

d. Identify connection points to existing or new fuel oil systems if temporary boilers are to use the permanent system.

e. Provide any drawings or specifications governing temporary boiler fuel supply.

a. Temporary boiler shall utilize natural gas as primary fuel source, with secondary source being fuel oil.

b. Project will utilize the existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks located South of plant, Drawing GI003.

c. Project will utilize the existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks located South of plant, Drawing GI003.

d. Drawings MP101 and ME609 reflect fuel oil connection to temporary boilers.

e. Drawings GI003, MP101 and ME609 identifies fuel oil tanks and pipe routing. Spec

23 11 23 Facility Natural gas piping.

26. Fuel oil system demolition is shown on Drawing ME606 – Fuel Oil Demolition

Diagram. New fuel oil system piping and tanks appear on Drawing ME609 – Fuel Oil

Diagram. The contract documents do not clearly define whether existing fuel oil storage tanks and associated equipment are to be demolished, reused, or modified.

It is unclear which portions of the existing fuel oil piping system are to remain in service during construction.

Please clarify the following:

a. Confirm whether existing fuel oil storage tanks are to be removed or remain in service.

b. Identify which portions of the existing fuel oil piping system are to remain operational during construction.

c. Provide demolition limits for the existing fuel oil system.

d. Confirm whether tank removal, cleaning, and environmental remediation are included in the contractor scope.

e. Provide any additional drawings or specifications defining demolition versus reuse of the existing fuel oil system.

a. The existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks will remain in place and not part of this project to install or replace.

b. Demolished piping on Drawing ME-606 is reflected with hatching on piping, downstream of fuel oil pumps.

c. Demolished piping on Drawing ME-606 is reflected with hatching on piping, downstream of fuel oil pumps.

d. The existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks will remain in place and not part of this project to install or replace.

e. Demolished piping on Drawing ME-606 is reflected with hatching on piping, downstream of fuel oil pumps.

27. The contract documents require the installation of temporary boilers to maintain steam service to the campus during construction. The drawings and specifications also indicate that the existing boilers and associated equipment will be removed and that the existing 10-inch steam header will be replaced as part of the project scope. The phasing language indicates that demolition of the existing boilers will occur after temporary boilers are operational and during low-load summer months. However, the contract documents do not identify the expected duration that the temporary boilers will be required to operate.

Please provide the following:

a. Confirm the anticipated duration (months) that temporary boilers will be required to operate during construction.

b. Provide the expected project phasing sequence related to demolition of existing boilers, replacement of the steam header, and installation of the new boilers.

c. Confirm whether the temporary boilers are required to carry the entire campus steam load during the steam header replacement work.

d. Confirm whether any shutdown window or staged header replacement strategy is intended to limit temporary boiler operation duration.

e. Confirm whether additional temporary capacity or redundancy is required during the header replacement phase.

a. Temporary boilers will be utilized throughout the entire construction, estimated at

1,095 days.

b. The anticipated sequence would be temporary boiler installation with temporary tie-in, demolition of boiler, installation of new boiler, replacement of header and all piping. The Contractor’s final phasing plan shall be approved by AE and VA.

c. Yes, temporary boilers capacity shall supply entire campus.

d. The intent is to keep critical processes active with zero downtime. Header and piping replacement will need to be coordinated with temporary tie-ins as needed and with

VA approval.

e. Temporary boilers capacity of two (2) 250 BHP units and one (1) 200 BHP is adequate; no additional capacity needed.

28. The demolition drawings indicate the removal of three (3) existing boiler economizers associated with the existing boiler plant. The boiler equipment schedule mentions an aspect of economizers; the contract documents do not clearly identify whether new economizers are required for the replacement boilers or if economizers are intended to be included as part of the packaged boiler equipment.

Please provide the following:

a. Confirm whether economizers are required for each of the new boilers.

b. Confirm whether economizers are factory-supplied as part of the packaged boiler equipment or provided as separate field-installed equipment.

c. Provide required economizer performance criteria, including efficiency improvement or flue gas exit temperature.

d. Provide material requirements for economizer construction (carbon steel, stainless steel, etc.).

e. Clarify condensate drainage requirements associated with the economizers.

f. Provide any specification section governing economizer design and installation.

a. Economizers are required for each of the three (3) boilers.

b. The design intent is that the economizer is paired with the packaged boiler, however, economizers may be field installed as separate units, provided the proposed economizer meets all performance requirements and specification requirements given space constraints within the existing plant, field installed economizers may be required to accommodate the boiler footprint and maintain clearances.

c. Performance requirements are documented in ME601, Section 23 52 33 – Water-tube boilers and VA Steam Design Manual.

d. VA requires stainless steel economizer tubes. Material requirements are documented in Section 23 52 33 – Water-tube boilers and VA Steam Design Manual.

e. Economizer drain requirements are documented in Section 23 52 33 Water-tube boilers. Condensate drainage requirements are governed in Section 23 22 13 – Steam and Condensate Piping. See attached Revised Section 23 22 13.

f. As above

29. Is this project tax exempt and if so, will a certificate be issued?

No, this project is not tax exempt.

30. Payment for materials: FAR 52.232-5(b)(2) states, “In the preparation of estimates, the Contracting Officer may authorize material…” VAAR 852.232-70(d) states: “The

Contracting Officer will consider for monthly progress payments material and/or equipment procured by the Contractor…” We have seen contract officers refuse payment for materials because their interpretation is that payment is optional and they simply prefer not to pay for materials. Question - will payments for uninstalled/offsite materials be approved on this project? If the answer is no, contractors need to know this at time of bid so they can include storage, finance, and carrying costs. If the contractor needs to finance boiler equipment until it is onsite, responsible bidding parties need to know.

Progress payments for materials and equipment, including stored materials, will be considered in accordance with FAR 52.232 5(b)(2) and VAAR 852.232 70(d), subject to

Contracting Officer approval. Materials must be suitably stored, insured, and segregated for the project. Contractors shall include all storage, handling, and carrying costs in their bid.

31. Will temporary power and water be provided at no cost?

Per Specification 01 00 00 – General Requirements Section 1.13 Government shall make all reasonably required amounts of utilities available to the Contractor from existing outlets and supplies. The Contractor is responsible for installing, maintaining and metering all necessary temporary connections.

32. Are there any badging requirements for construction workers? If so, what are they?

Full PIV Badges? Will every worker need to be badged or just team leaders/escorts?

If the VA takes an unreasonable amount of time to process badges, can temporary daily or weekly badges be used until permanent badges are processed?

Badging requirements are in accordance with VA Directive 0730 and Section 01 00 00

(General Requirements). All construction Work Leads must obtain VA-issued identification badges, which may include Personal Identity Verification (PIV) badges for access to secure areas. Temporary badges may be issued at the discretion of the

Contracting Officer if processing delays occur, but permanent badges must be pursued diligently.

33. Is the contractor responsible for supplying a Submittal Exchange type website?

Yes, the Contractor is responsible for providing an electronic submittal management system as required by Section 01 33 23.

34. Are there any blast requirements for windows or doors? If so, please provide the required

PSI to achieve.

This project consists of alterations to an existing facility and does not trigger full compliance with new construction anti-terrorism requirements. No blast-resistant design requirements or associated design pressures (PSI) have been identified for this project scope, and retrofit of the entire building to meet such requirements is not included in the project scope. Work performed on the building envelope is limited to preservation and restoration of the existing facility.

Exterior doors, replacement and new windows, and interior control room glazing are designed as conventional assemblies consistent with the existing non-blast-resistant construction and are not required to be blast-resistant. The new second-floor storefront is located beyond the required security standoff distance and is not required to be blast-resistant.

35. Reference 01 91 00 3.9 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE TRAINING

REQUIREMENTS: Can the “professional photographer” outlined in the specification be employed by the GC or does it have to be by the installation contractor?

The professional photographer may be employed by the Contractor, provided qualification requirements of the specifications are met. Refer to Section 01 00 00.

36. Reference 01 33 23 Para SHOP DRAWINGS 1.3 SUBMITTAL REGISTER (C):

This para references the VA will provide the initial submittal register in electronic format. This para also has what seems to be an embedded file named ENG_FORM_4288-

R.pdf. Can the VA provide both of these prior to bid?

Bidders may utilize the enclosed ENG Form 4288 file template for planning purposes until project specific version is generated. See attached ENG Form 4288.

37. Reference 01 45 35 SPECIAL INSPECTIONS 1.1 DESCRIPTION (A):

Can the VA confirm that the registered design professional performing observations will be a representative of the Designer of Record?

The registered design professional performing observations under section 01 45 35 shall be a representative of the Designer of Record (DOR) or a qualified consultant designated by DOR.

38. Can the VA clarify and/or confirm that “FAR 25.402 General” is applicable to this project as a result of the bid range?

The Trade Agreement Act (TAA) is applicable to this project. Contractors shall ensure all specified products are manufactured in TAA designated countries and shall submit the required TAA certification with their offer.

39. Reference Basis of Design Clarification: Will the VA accept an alternate manufacturer in lieu of the Basis of Design, provided the proposed boiler matches the specified capacity, performance, and salient features, and is demonstrated to be equal to or better than the

Basis of Design? For example, would manufacturers such as Simoneau (Canada) or

Hurst Boiler & Welding Co. be considered acceptable alternatives? Alternatively, is the

VA intending to sole-source the boiler to Cleaver-Brooks, and if so, will a formal sole-source justification be issued prior to bid?

The VA will consider alternative manufacturers provided the proposed boiler is demonstrated equal or better than Basis of Design in all salient characteristics including but not limited to footprint, capacity, efficiency, operating pressure, steam output, controls integration, and compliance with all requirements of Section 25 52 33.

Substitution requests are subject to AE and VA review and approval prior to procurement.

40. Is it the DOR understanding that the BOD (Cleaver-Brooks) will come with the PLC’s or has the DOR determined that the EC is to provide these?

Currently BOD boiler is Superior and design intent is to use manufacturers standard PLC unless the government specifies otherwise.

41. Prior to installing the temporary boiler, will asbestos abatement be needed at the

Connections?

Yes, asbestos abatement is required at all connection points prior to any disturbance, for temporary boiler installation.

42. Please clarify the intent of the coordination drawings outlined in Divisions 22 and 23. Is the contractor to map out all existing lines in the boiler plant?

The Contractor shall verify and develop coordination drawings for existing and new piping.

43. For the 3 temporary boilers required, who rents them and pays such costs in maintaining them during the PoP? VA, Prime contractor, Sub-Contractor?

The Contractor is responsible for renting the temporary boilers and associated costs for the duration of project. The Contractor may assign maintenance and repair responsibilities to a qualified subcontractor, but the Contractor remains fully liable to the

VA for performance, reliability and continuous operation of temporary boilers.

44. Who will operate the temporary boilers once installed, and turned over to the VA?

The Contractor may assign a mechanical subcontractor the responsibility of training the

VA boiler plant operators on the temporary boiler equipment. The Contractor retains overall contractual responsibility for ensuring training is completed and documented to the VA’s satisfaction.

45. Reference Attachment 07 - Design Narrative and Option Descriptions

Recommended Options: “To verify the best value to the government, three different concept designs were evaluated. They were evaluated on overall costs, pluses and minuses, and how well they met the project objectives. The option that was least cost and highest value was chosen.” Can the VA either share what the three options evaluated were and does it have any relevance to the bidding process?

Verbiage has been removed from the narrative; it is not applicable to the Contractor and the bidding process. See attached Revised Design Narrative and Option Descriptions.

46. Reference GI-003: The contract drawings do not identify a site plan location for the fuel oil tanks usage. Three (3) existing fuel tanks (“(EX) FUEL TANK”) are shown in light line weight; however, no piping or connections are indicated to serve the temporary boilers. This scope is currently undefined and cannot be properly priced or coordinated without additional information. Multiple trades will be impacted. This information is critical to establishing project scope. Without it, bidders are unable to carry complete and coordinated pricing. Can the VA please provide the following as applicable:

Confirmed fuel oil tank location tie in points

Provide Tank specifications (capacity, configuration, aboveground/belowground)

Any Pad and foundation requirements (structural and concrete details)

Any Required clearances and spacing

Secondary containment requirements

Complete piping design, including connection points, routing, and accessories

Is the 8’ temp fencing to protect this piping if is installed above ground level

Is any signage required

Project will utilize the existing three 10,000-gallon aboveground fuel oil storage tanks located South of plant, Drawing GI003. Drawings MP101 and ME609 reflect fuel oil connection to temporary boilers. The eight (8) foot fencing is a physical security requirement for critical boiler plant operations. Piping to temporary boilers shall be either inside building or underground upon exiting building. Signage for fencing is required.

47. Economizers: Can the VA please provide the required economizer specifications?

Refer to Specification Section 23 52 33.

48. Reference AD-101 - STORAGE 104: Please confirm the location of the fire riser. This information directly impacts scope, coordination, and cost. Additionally, can the VA confirm whether the Contractor is required to remove the existing workbench to accommodate the new riser installation? Can the VA clarify whether the area requires heating provisions due to ambient temperatures below 40°F? Can the VA confirm whether the removed workbench is to be replaced as part of this scope? If so, what will the new workbench requirements be for location, size and functional requirements

(specs)?

Workbench would be removed for Fire riser. Fire riser is correct per sheet FX-101, in storage 103. Contractor to add 1.5 kW heater to storage room. Power heater from new panel “111-1X-5” with a 30 amp 1 phase circuit breaker.

49. Reference Temporary Shoring Design Criteria: Please confirm whether temporary shoring is required following the removal of wall sections for boiler access. This scope cannot be properly designed, coordinated, or priced without defined shoring criteria.

Absence of this information will result in assumptions, potential safety risks.

Can the VA provide the project-specific design criteria, including but not limited to:

Design loads (dead, live, equipment, and construction loads)

Extent and duration of required shoring

Structural support conditions and limitations

Requirements for engineered/delegated design, including sealing by a licensed professional engineer

Any installation, monitoring, and removal requirements

Any Inspection requirements

See Structural analysis performed and included in Project Documents Narrative. See also

Drawings SE-100 and SE-503.

50. Reference SE-100 Plan Note #1. The drawings note: “Shaded area represents the approximate area the Contractor is to provide a temporary raised floor for installation of new boilers. Approximate height of existing housekeeping slab is 6 inches above grade

(field verify). Temporary floor to extend to top of housekeeping slab for installation and removal of boilers. Remove temporary floor after boilers are set and installed on foundation slab.” The intent and material requirements for this temporary raised floor are not defined, and clarification is required for proper pricing and means and methods. This scope cannot be accurately priced or coordinated without defined material and structural requirements. Please provide the following:

The required construction type of the temporary raised floor (e.g., wood framing, concrete, steel platform, or other)

Any loading requirements to support boiler installation and rigging operations

Whether engineered design or delegated design is required

Any criteria for anchorage, bracing, or safety requirements

The intent of the temporary raised floor noted on SE-100 Plan Note #1 is to provide a temporary working surface approximately flush with the top of the existing housekeeping slabs to facilitate removal of the existing boilers and installation of the new boilers.

The existing housekeeping slabs/pads are intended to remain and be reused as the final support for the new boilers. The temporary raised floor is not intended to provide permanent support for the boilers after installation. The approximate height difference between the existing floor slab and the top of the housekeeping slabs is noted as 6 inches and shall be field verified by the Contractor.

The required construction type for the temporary raised floor is not specifically prescribed. The Contractor shall design, furnish, install, maintain, and remove the temporary raised floor using materials and construction suitable for the Contractor’s selected means and methods, including boiler removal, boiler placement, rigging, equipment movement, and any forklift or material-handling operations.

The temporary floor shall be designed to safely support all anticipated temporary construction loads, including, but not limited to:

• Weight of the existing boilers during removal;

• Weight of the new boilers during installation;

• Forklift, pallet jack, dolly, rigging, cribbing, rolling, or other installation equipment loads;

• Concentrated wheel loads, point loads, impact loads, and load combinations associated with the Contractor’s means and methods.

Temporary works, including the raised floor, ramps, bracing, anchorage, blocking, cribbing, and edge protection, shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. Where required by the project specifications, authority having jurisdiction, equipment loading, or the Contractor’s selected means and methods, the temporary raised floor shall be designed by a qualified registered professional engineer retained by the Contractor. The temporary floor shall be adequately anchored, braced, blocked, or otherwise stabilized as required to prevent movement, displacement, overturning, excessive deflection, or unsafe working conditions during boiler removal and installation. The Contractor shall protect the existing floor slab, housekeeping slabs, surrounding construction, and existing utilities from damage. Anchorage into existing structural elements, if proposed, shall be submitted for review prior to installation. The temporary raised floor shall be removed after the boilers are set and installed on the existing housekeeping slabs/foundation slabs, unless otherwise directed.

51. Reference MP100, MP101, MP102, & ME502: ALL WORK THAT AFFECTS ROOF

INTEGRITY MUST BE PERFORMED SO AS TO MAINTAIN ROOF WARRANTY.

ROOF MANUFACTURER IS IB. Assuming “IB” is IB Roof Systems, we contacted IB

Roof Systems. They advised that it has no record of a registered roof warranty for any building at the Prescott VA Hospital in Prescott, Arizona. IB further indicated that it may be able to conduct additional research if the owner can provide the applicable warranty number. Can the VA please provide the roof warranty letter for this building.

Comment regarding maintaining roof warranty has been removed. The existing roof membrane for the boiler plant, control room and generator room is scheduled to be replaced as part of this project. The Contractor shall provide all roofing in accordance with the contract documents and manufacturer requirements, furnishing warranty for new roofing system. See attached updated drawings (MP100, MP101, MP102 & ME502)

52. Reference SE-001 SOIL DESIGN PARAMETERS: No soils report available. Contractor shall retain GEOTECHNICAL Engineer to observe the excavations and verify the assumed parameters. The authority has jurisdiction over the project may waive the requirement. Corrective measures shall be taken to obtain the assume soil design parameters. Can the VA clarify the intent of the above note since there is no report provided with the below questions:

a. The Earthwork notes on this sheet for SOIL PREPARATION refers to soil beneath footings and slabs. Can the VA clarify what the assumed parameters are for the UG fire water piping?

b. Are we to retain a geotechnical engineer and include costs in our proposal for utility trench fill placement being monitored and confirmed by the geotechnical engineer?

c. Absent of any Geotechnical Report can the VA determine the general subsurface conditions at the site we should anticipate during construction of the fire water line?

d. Are there any areas where heavy loading may affect the new pipe is anticipated? If so, please provide the relevant information.

e. Are there any Cathodic Protection required for this piping?

f. Are contractors liable for unanticipated subsurface conditions by limiting what the VA is providing for bid preparation?

a. No project specific geotechnical report for underground utility construction are included in the contract documents. Any geotechnical information developed for other projects in the vicinity of campus was not prepared for this project.

b. Yes, the Contractor shall retain a licensed geotechnical engineer to observe excavations, verify soil parameters and monitor and confirm backfill compaction for the underground fire water line.

c. No project specific geotechnical report is available. Any geotechnical information developed for other projects in the vicinity of campus was not prepared for this project.

d. The new underground fire water pipe route crosses existing roadway that is subject to contiguous heavy vehicle loading including delivery trucks, fuel tankers and other service vehicles. Bidders shall account for anticipated traffic loading in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

e. Cathodic protection shall be provided only where specifically required by contract documents.

f. FAR 52.236-2 (Differing Site Conditions) is incorporated into this contract. Contractors are not liable for unanticipated subsurface conditions encountered during construction.

The VA will evaluate all differing site conditions claims on their merits and will provide an equitable adjustment where warranted.

53. Reference EE501 - 6" BOLLARD DETAIL: Can the VA clarify where this detail is applicable and shown on the drawings? The only other reference to bollards is in spec 33

10 00 where it mentions “…protective pipe bollards on two sides of Describe arrangement each fire department connection.”

Upon review, there are no bollards located on the new construction plans. Detail has been removed. See attached updated drawing sheet EE501.

54. Reference CU-1: This sheet references several details along the new fire line piping. eg;

Detail 381, 391-1. Can the VA clarify where these details are shown on the drawings?

See details below and attached Maricopa Association of Governments Uniform Standard

Details.

55. Reference 33 10 00, para 3.19 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL (B): Can the VA clarify if the below is a project requirement and we should anticipate including costs for this? If so, can the VA provide the complete drawing that reflects the route from the bldg. to the municipal connection point? “Prior to final acceptance, provide a video record of all piping from the building to the municipal connection to show the lines are free from obstructions, properly sloped and joined.”

Video recording of the underground fire water from the municipal connection point is a contractual requirement. Drawing CU-1 shows fire water line routing.

56. Reference 33 10 00 WATER UTILITIES, 1.2 RELATED WORK: There appears to be several sections that the spec editor retained as related sections that were not provided.

eg; Section 21 12 00, FIRE-SUPPRESSION STANDPIPES, 31 20 00, EARTH

MOVING. Can the VA confirm that those sections are not part of the project and are not required?

Sections 21 12 00 and 31 20 00 do not apply, and references have been removed from 33

10 00. See attached Revised Section 33 10 00 and attached Maricopa Association of

Governments Uniform Standard Details.

57. Reference FX101, FIRE RISER DETAIL: The detail mentions “PROVIDE 2"

ANNULAR SPACE AROUND FLOOR SLAB PENETRATION AND SEAL WITH

WEATHERPROOF MASTIC.” Can the VA clarify that fire line piping enters the room under the slab my means of the foundation wall then up into the space? Is there a crawlspace under this room? If so, can the VA provide the foundation wall penetration detail?

No crawl space under storage room. The intent is for the fire line to enter below the foundation wall then up through the floor slab. Installing contractor to provide details for review.

58. Reference FX101, FIRE RISER DETAIL: The riser detail note #1 mentions “DUCTILE

IRON FLANGE X SPIGOT PIECE THROUGH FLOOR SLAB. Is it intended that installation of this flange and the required 2‑inch annular space at the slab assumes accessible workspace below the slab near the exterior wall? If not, can the VA please clarify the actual below‑slab conditions and the expected method for routing the pipe through the wall and into the room?

See response to RFI 57. The area below the slab will need to be excavated by the contractor to allow working space.

59. Reference FX101, FIRE RISER DETAIL: The riser detail note #13 mentions “4-WAY

EARTHQUAKE BRACE”. Can the VA confirm this is the only seismic bracing required for the riser?

For the riser, the 4-way brace at the top is required as well as a flexible fitting within 24” of the slab in accordance with NFPA 13.

60. Reference 33 10 00 WATER UTILITIES: Upon review, this section does not appear to be tailored to the project scope shown on the drawings. Can the VA please revise the specification to clearly align with the scope and design intent reflected in the drawings ensuring the requirements are clear and free of ambiguity regarding the intended work possibly by deleting sections not applicable to project.

Section 33 10 00 was derived from the VA Master Specification. A review of the section against the project scope shown on Drawing CU-1 confirmed that several subsections are not applicable to this work. A revision of the specification section (attached) has been prepared to clarify scope applicability and remove inapplicable provisions.

The following subsections have been removed:

• PE Pipe and Fittings – No PE piping shown; pipe material is 6-inch PVC throughout.

• Detector Check Valves, Butterfly Valves, and Plug Valves – None shown on the drawings.

• Corporation and Curb Valves – No service laterals in this scope; connection is a hot tap with gate valve.

• Indicator Posts – Not shown on the drawings.

• Safety Guards and Lifting Attachments – No rotating equipment or pumps in this scope.

• Welding Certifications – No welded joints; all connections are mechanical (tapping sleeve) or gasketed PVC.

• Metering Cross-Reference – No water meter in this scope.

The fire service piping material shall comply with the requirements of the Contract

Documents and the requirements of the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), including the City water department where the connection is made to the water main.

The Contractor shall be responsible for coordinating with the AHJ for permitting, material selection, and testing requirements associated with tapping the City water main.

All remaining provisions of Section 33 10 00 remain in effect. No changes to Drawing

CU-1 are required. See also attached Maricopa Association of Governments Uniform

Standard Details.

61. Reference CU-1, Note #5: The note states no water analysis was completed. Can the VA clarify if the contractor is responsible for providing a water analysis?

Water analysis is not required for domestic water connection serving the fire protection system.

62. Reference CU-1, Note #8: The note states to install water in trench per detail 200-3.