S06 Questions - Solicitation 36C26323R0023.pdf

QUESTION

# CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS VA RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS

1 We are not veteran-owned, however are interested in bidding the materials for this project. Do subcontractors also have to be veteran-owned?

In order to be awarded the contract as the Prime Contractor, your company would be required to be CVE Certified Service-Disable, Veteran-Owned, Small Business (SDVOSB). You must be certified by the following website: https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/

If you are not a SDVOSB, you could still be a subcontractor. My suggestion if you are interested is to come to the site visit. There should be Prime Contractors there and you could discuss sub-contracting opportunities. The site visit date, time and location will be included in the solicitation when the solicitation has been published.

2 Section 11 73 00, General 1.1, Description A “Ceiling Mounted Patient Lift Systems for the transfer of physical challenged patients are specified in this section. Lift Systems will be provided by the VA for the Contractor to Install”. Are the lifts going to be OWNER furnished or CONTRACTOR furnished?

Lifts are to be Contractor Furnished and installed. Reference Equipment Schedule on sheet Q-601, Equipment JSN # A1200 labled Responsibility CC (Contractor furnished, Contractor installed). See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.2 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.2 – 634 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 11 73 00.

3 Please confirm what rooms the bariatric ceiling lifts will be installed?

Currently seeing only one Room 3D-101 called out, but page 1391- Q-601 # A1203 has a quantity of two (2).

On Sheet AC101 – Patient 18 RM 3D-133 also has a bariatric lift called out - #A1203.

4 In reviewing the documents from this solicitation, I found a few items to be surprising.

Main Concerns In J&A:

- Responder 4 is an end-of-life system and has been for several years.

- Responder 4, Responder 5, and Responder Enterprise cannot communicate amongst each other without a 3rd party middleware to do so.

- Rauland has a 6-to-9-month product wait due to supply chain issues.

- Rauland is far more expensive and holds their customers hostage with insane SMA contracts.

Things you should know:

- There are other OR Equal products that meet or exceed the specs of this solicitation.

- Jeron Nurse Call is forward and backward compatible making upgrades and expansions far less strenuous on the facility budget.

- Jeron can integrate with other nurse call systems.

- Jeron uses no proprietary cabling or connectors.

- We have VA facilities nationwide that have not had a single trouble ticket in 5 YEARS.

The Minneapolis VA is not able to deviate from the sole source requirements for Rauland Responder for our Nurse Call Equipment here. The brand name requirements for Rauland Responder are justified. All the supporting infrastructure on site is only compatible with Rauland Responder equipment. If Rauland was not sole sourced for this equipment, the Minneapolis VA would need to install an incredible amount of additional infrastructure for a standalone system.

This would cause a lot of issues with how the adjacent nurse call systems interact with each other.

https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/

5 We are interested to bid the Cubicle Curtains, Shower Curtains and Tracking System. Please guide us how we can obtain the RFP & plans.

An amendment will be published to the solicitation which includes a sign-in sheet showing which contractors attended the site visit that was held on March 28, 2023. You can reach out to these contractors to discuss sub-contracting opportunities. You may find the solicitation 36C26323R0023 located on www.SAM.gov.

6 What is the basis of design for the ACT Ceiling Tiles? See specifications 01 00 00 and 09 51 00.

7 Is this project tax exempt or taxable? If tax exempt, will there be a certificate issued?

This project is not tax exempt. Refer to SF1442-block 10.

8 The drawings make multiple references to deductive alternates. The bid schedule in the solicitation does not have any alternate pricing lines. Please advise.

Deductive alternates are not applicable. Please see “S06 Q_A Atch 2

- Revised Drawings - 15 pages”, “S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101 - 2 pages” and “S06 Q_A Atch 7 - Revised Drawing GI201 - 1 page”. Please also see “S06 Q_A Atch

1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 01 00 00.

9 How will the VA handle payment of stored materials? If materials are approved through the submittal process and being stored on site, can they be invoiced for prior to installation?

Payment for stored materical may be requested on a contractor’s monthly invoice as long as the basic requirements shown below are met. Please note, the Minneapolis VA has very limited space available for stored materials, and may not be able to provide space for storage.

Basic Requirements:

The following must be provided with the contractor’s monthly invoice, to receive payment for stored materials:

A. Stored material must be summarized in a cover letter.

B. The location where each of the stored items must be provided. A VA representative may choose to visit the location of the stored materials to review.

C. An invoice for the material must be provided to determine value and proof of ownership.

D. A certificate/letter from the insurance company indicating the stored materials are covered must be provided.

a. This is only required if not storing on VA property.

E. Photographic evidence of the stored materials must be provided

a. This is only required if not storing on VA property.

F. Then every subsequent pay request is supposed to have a stored material cover letter identifying material and its value for previously stored items that were installed since the last pay request and a running list of materials remaining stored and their value.

http://www.sam.gov/

10 Can the project Superintendent be “Dual Hatted”? In other words, can the project Superintendent also be the QCM and/or SSHO? How many individuals does the awarded GC need onsite to fill the 3 positions of Superintendent, QCM, and SSHO?

No. At a minimum, General Contractor shall have two individuals;

one for superintedent and one for QCM. Superintedent or QCM can be Dual Hatted to fill SSHO requirement.

11 The Floor Finish Legend on Sheet 1391 – IN101 lists a PT -4 and a PT-5 floor finish. I do not see any rooms listed with a PT-4 or PT-5 floor finish. Please advise if and where there is a floor finish of PT-4 and PT-5.

PT-4 is used in the patient restrooms as an accent flooring strip at the showers. Refer to F2/ A403; F1/A404 for enlarged restroom views.

Refer to IN601 for finish information. PT-5 is not used, refer to IN101 for flooring finish information.

12 Project duration: Clarification of this may be internal and not need to be submitted as a question – The Solicitation shows 365 days after NTP, but the specifications indicate a total project duration of 455 days – See page 010000-15, item 1.3.A and L.

Project duration is 365 days after NTP.

13 Solicitation, page 35 of 63, Clause 4.2-52.211-10:

The Completion date is based on the assumption that the successful offeror will receive the NTP by 455 days after award. This conflicts with the 90 days of acceptance.

Refer to FAR 52.215-1 Instructions to Offerors-Competitive Acquisition (d) Offer expiration date. Proposals in response to this solicitation will be valid for the number of days specified on the solicitation cover sheet (unless a different period is proposed by the offeror). A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer, mailed or otherwise furnished to the successful offeror within the time for acceptance specified in the offer, shall result in a binding contract without further action by either party. Before the offer’s specified expiration time, the Government may accept an offer (or part of an offer), whether or not there are negotiations after its receipt, unless a written notice of withdrawal is received before award.

14 Deductive alternates are not indicated in the bid schedule included in the solicitation, but are indicated on plan sheets GI101/GI201, A002, A101/A102, AC101, IN101/IN601, IF101 and Q101.

Deductive alternates are not applicable. Please see “S06 Q_A Atch 2

- Revised Drawings - 15 pages”, “S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101 - 2 pages” and “S06 Q_A Atch 7 - Revised Drawing GI201 - 1 page”. Please also see “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1

- Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 01 00 00.

15 Section 11 73 00: Ceiling Mounted patient Lift Systems: Materials are called out to be provided by the Owner. Please confirm this will include the structural connections/supports to the deck.

Lifts are to be Contractor Furnished and installed. Reference Equipment Schedule on sheet Q-601, Equipment JSN # A1200 labled Responsibility CC (Contractor furnished, Contractor installed).

Structural supports and calculations shall be provided as part of the Lift system, refer to 11 73 00 1.4 A. See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.2 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.2 - 634 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 11 73 00.

16 Section 08 17 10: Integrated Door Assemblies: Please confirm this is required for this project. If so, please correct specs to match door schedule hardware requirements.

Door 150 is an integrated door – refer to Hardware Set SH-10A in integrated door specification. Other hardware sets will be removed.

See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.2 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.2 - 634 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 08 17 10 and revised Specification Section 08 71 10. Please also see “S06 Q_A Atch 3 - Revised Drawing A-601 - 1 page”.

17 Section 08 33 00: Coiling Doors and Grilles: Please confirm these are required for this project. If so, please confirm location is correct (1391 A-101 Col. Line 23-24 & J-H, Note #4).

Doors 116B and 132B are located in Safer Patient rooms, 3D-131 and 3D-132. Refer to sheet A-601 for location.

18 There is not a spec section for Aluminum Windows. Please provide. All windows are interior and are to be Hollow Metal framed. See Window schedule and details on A-601. 08 11 13 Hollow Metal Doors and Frames covers glazed windows at interior locations.

19 Aluminum Windows: Type A mark is missing at the Charting Areas.

Please confirm there should be (4) in lieu of (2).

Each Charting area is to have 4 type A windows. (2 into each room).

20 There is not a spec section for the Aluminum door frames at the sliding barn doors. Please provide.

The Sliding doors SLI-1 are a system that includes the door and frame.

See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.2 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.2 - 634 pages” which includes the added Specification Section 08 36

16.13 High Performance Barn (sliding) Door.

21 There is not a spec section for Lockers. Please provide. Lockers are an equipment item, their description is listed on Q-601.

The description will be updated to state “Phenolic lockers – color and system to be approved by VA during submittal process”. See “S06 Q_A Atch 4 - Revised Drawing Q-601 - 1 page”.

22 Section 10 11 13: Chalkboards and Markerboards: Please confirm this section applies as no work is shown to be by the Contractor.

Refer to Enlarged elevations starting on A401 and Q-601 for items that are CC (Contractor supplied/ installed). Specification is a courtesy for GC to ensure blocking is provided at plan locations for mounting purposes.

23 Section 10 11 33: Glassboard (Magnetic & Non-magnetic): Please confirm this section applies as no work is shown to be by the Contractor.

Refer to Enlarged elevations starting on A401 and Q-601 for items that are CC (Contractor supplied/ installed). Specification is a courtesy for GC to ensure blocking is provided at plan locations for mounting purposes.

24 Can questions be sent in after 10:00 a.m.? Maybe as late as 2:00 p.m.?

During the site visit it was stated that the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

Please provide me your questions before 10:00 a.m. today to be guaranteed a response. Anything received after 10:00 a.m. will only be answered if considered a significant impact to the project.

25 Section 23 05 12-7: (4) hours of training from a technical representative has been stated within multiple similar specifications.

Will the VA accept (4) hours of training to cover multiple

Bidders to assume ten (10) hours of training will be required to cover all specification divisions.

specification sections? Or will (4+) hours per specification section where it is mentioned be required?

26 Section 00 41 13: The bid form from Section 00 41 13 is not listed in the volume 2 Price Proposal. Is the bid form from section 00 41 13 intended to be submitted with our proposal? If yes, where in the proposal?

Bidders to disregard specification section 00 41 13. See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which has removed specificaton section 00 41 13.

27 Solicitation: Would you consider removing the page limitation for Volume 2 – Price Proposal? The information required in the minimum submission requirements will exceed 15 pages.

The 15-page limit applies only to responses per non-price technical factor. For instance, your response to “FACTOR 1 – TECHNICAL APPROACH” can only be 15 pages, your response to “FACTOR 2:

EXPERIENCE” can only be 15 pages, and so on.

28 Section 01 00 00: Part 1.2.D states the superintendent shall have no hands on construction interaction. Does this include daily clean up?

Superintendent may participate in daily construction site upkeep activites.

29 Section 01 00 00: Part 1.2.I states Contractor shall perform work in accordance with requirements of “ASHE Construction in a Healthcare Facility”. Can you please provide a copy of this document?

See ASHE.org for training requirements.

30 Section 01 00 00: Is submittal exchange required or can we use Procore or another similar service as called in the specifications.

(1.2.J)

Submittal exchange shall be used.

31 Section 00 41 13: Bid Form states Bidder shall fill out the Construction Cost Estimate Breakdown tables included with this Bid Form and Attached. Is this intended to be attachment B of the solicitation documents?

Bidders to disregard specification section 00 41 13. See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which has removed specificaton section 00 41 13.

32 Section 01 00 00: Part 1.2.N states All price proposals, shall including subcontractor pricing must include a breakdown of pricing per the format included with this Project Manual. Can you please provide?

Part 1.2.N is applicable to contract modifications. Subcontractor breakdown pricing not applicable to project proposal.

33 1391-MS101: In lieu of providing an on grade AHU and ducting up the side of the building near main entrance of the hospital, a solution on another recent VA project was to provide local space temp cooling units and electric heating units in conjunction with temporary ducting to provide ventilation air from an adjacent AHU. Is this an acceptable approach to provide temporary heating and cooling to rooms in lieu of the AHU and exterior ductwork?

This approach is viable if adjacent areas originally served by the AHU have temporary service with identical CFM, cooling, heating and filtration. Phasing and Temporary Plan will be reviewed during the Shop Submittal period.

34 Section 01 00 00: Part 1.3.A, What date will current occupants be relocating to a new space?

Bidders to assume current occupants will be vacated no later than June 31st, 2023.

35 Section 01 00 00:

Part 1.2.0.4 calls for building envelope commissioning. Is this required on this project?

Building envelop commissioning is required in the Mechanical room following louver/knock-out panel replacement.

36 Section 01 00 00:

Part 1.5.B, are all personal on site required to get a PIV badge or will a day pass from the local Minneapolis VA Security desk be acceptable?

PIV Badges required for General Contractor’s Project Manager, Superintedent, QCM, and SSHO. PIV Badges also required for individuals working onsite longer than 180 days. Badging requirements will be explained in detail during the Project Pre- Construction Meeting.

37 Section 01 00 00: Part 1.17 calls for third party inspections from a limited number of entities. Are these the only entities allowed to provide the third-party inspections required?

Any entity may be used provided qualifications meet or exceed requirements from Specification 01 45 00.

38 Section 01 32 16.01: Part 1.14 – Can you please provide an example of acceptable risk analysis software?

Specification 01 32 16.01 is not applicable to the Construction contract. See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which has removed specificaton section 01 32 16.01.

39 Section 01 32 16.01: Is this work intended to be performed by the contractor or the A/E?

Specification 01 32 16.01 is not applicable to the Construction contract. See “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which has removed specificaton section 01 32 16.01.

40 Section 01 33 23: Part 1.9 – what qualifications are needed for the preparer of the coordination drawings?

Coordination drawings may be prepared by General Contractor or subcontractor trade personnel.

41 Section 01 33 23: Part 1.2.C – what format shall the coordination drawings be in?

PDF or AutoCAD.

42 Section 01 33 24:

This section calls for Submittal exchange to be used, other areas state Procore or others are acceptable. Is submittal exchange required or may we use other software?

Submittal Exchange shall be used.

43 Section 01 00 00:

Part 1.2.D – Is the intent to have separate Superintended, SSHO, and CQC? (Three separate people)

At a minimum, General Contractor shall have two individuals; one for superintedent and one for QCM. Superintedent or QCM can be Dual Hatted to fill SSHO requirement.

44 Section 01 45 35.01-8:

Are there any seismic requirements for this project?

No.

45 Section 01 45 35:

Are the portions of special inspections not applicable to this project acceptable to remove from the special inspections requirements in performance of the work?

Yes.

46 Section 01 91 00: Commissioning Agent will be provided by the VA under a separate contract.

Is the commissioning agent to be hired by the VA under separate contract, or hired by the prime contractor?

47 Section 01 91 00-16 Part 3.8.C – by what file sharing means shall the training modules be submitted?

Submittal Exchange.

48 Section 01 91 00-16 Part 3.8.B – Is the training to be developed by the Prime Contractor or the Commissioning agent hired by the VA?

Training shall be developed by the General Contractor and approved by the CxA.

49 Section 05 40 00:

Is this spec section intended to be used on this project? If yes, at what wall details?

Structural studs are limited to existing exterior walls in mechanical room. The scope includes modifications to this framing.

50 Site Walk From the site walk it was stated that, Triple C is providing a Lidar File on 3/28/2023. This File will provide a complete 360 walk around view of the 3D Ward and interstitial space. This has not been uploaded to Sam.gov as of yet, when will this be released?

See “S06 Q_A Atch 5 - Lidar Scans - 1 page”.

51 Site Walk From the site walk it was stated that, the VA will have an Amendment coming with updated drawings. This has not been uploaded to Sam.gov, when will this be released?

See the following attachments:

S06 Q_A Atch 2 - Revised Drawings - 15 pages S06 Q_A Atch 3 - Revised Drawing A-601 - 1 page S06 Q_A Atch 4 - Revised Drawing Q-601 - 1 page S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101- 3 pages S06 Q_A Atch 7 - Revised Drawing GI201 - 1 page S06 Revised Drawings MP103i, M-501 and M-502 - 3 pages S06 Revised Drawings M-503, M-504 and M-601 - 3 pages S06 Revised Drawings M-702, M-802 and M-804 - 3 pages

52 Site Walk Will there be a need for Pre-Construction Load Monitoring for all electrical equipment? If so, will there be an updated specification section with this requirement included?

30 day Load Monitoring shall be performed in accordance with the

NEC.

53 Site Walk It was stated on the site walk that an update would be released removing the deducts as shown on the plans, when will this update confirming this change be released?

Deductive alternates are not applicable to this project. Please see “S06 Q_A Atch 2 - Revised Drawings - 15 pages”, “S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101 - 2 pages” and “S06 Q_A Atch 7

- Revised Drawing GI201 - 1 page”. Please also see “S06 Q_A Atch

1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 01 00 00.

54 Section 01 00 00 -16 I. Any existing system serving the area of work.

Please define what is meant by EXISTING systems will require commissioning. Are we to commission any system that we tie into?

Are we recommissioning the entire building?

55 Section 01 00 00 – 31 1.21 Will a professional photographer be required or can the QC fill this roll?

QCM may fill this role.

56 01 91 00 12 1.b.B.I Spec and SOW 3e. say Commissioning Agent (CxA) is to be hired by VA under separate contract but the 01 00 00 spec says the CxA is hired by GC. Please clarify, who is responsible for hiring the CxA?

Commissioning Agent will be provided by the VA under a separate contract.

57 RFP

What is the maximum email size allowed by the VA for the proposal submittal? Can the proposal be split into multiple emails to insure proper delivery?

The maximum email size allowed by the VA is 40 MB.

Yes, the proposal can be split into multiple emails to insure proper delivery.

Per FAR 15.208 Submission, modification, revision, and withdrawal of proposals. (a) Offerors are responsible for submitting proposals, and any revisions, and modifications, so as to reach the Government office designated in the solicitation by the time specified in the solicitation.

58 Attachment B Site Improvements are included in the pricing breakdown sheet but none appear to be shown on the drawings and specs. Can site improvements be removed from the sheet or shall they be left blank?

These shall be left blank.

59 Please confirm the order of precedence for the contract documents.

Please refer to FAR 52.236-21 Alt I Specifications and Drawings for Construction.

60 1391-GI201

The drawing shows deductive alternates listed. Please confirm these deductive alternates are incorporated into the CLIN schedule and on Attachment B

Deductive alternates are not applicable to this project. Please see “ “S06 Q_A Atch 7 - Revised Drawing GI201 - 1 page”. Please also see “S06 Q_A Atch 1.1 - Revised Atch C.1 Specifications Vol 1.1 - 291 pages” which includes a revised Specification Section 01 00 00.

61 Will space be provided for a construction trailer and storage onsite?

Yes.

62 1391-AD101 General Note E Contractor shall be responsible for disposing of all remaining equipment from the space. Furniture removal will be minimal.

Will all furniture and equipment be removed by the VA prior to construction start? If furniture is to remain, how much furniture should be accounted for disposal?

63 1391-AD101 General Note J Please clarify note J, where will temporary flooring be required?

What type of subfloor modifications are anticipated?

Refer to note 20 on AD101 (in Corridor C3-27). Contractor to provide temporary flooring to protect edges of existing flooring to remain.

64 1391-AD101 General Note J Does the concrete deck have a floor leveler poured on top of the deck? Will all demo’d walls require floor self leveling floor infill?

Is the deck leveler concrete or gypsum type?

Refer to 09 05 16 for Subsurface Preparations for Floor Finishes.

65 Please provide a specification for the lockers.

Lockers are an equipment item, their description is listed on Q-601.

The description will be updated to state “Phenolic lockers – color and system to be approved by VA during submittal process”. See “S06 Q_A Atch 4 - Revised Drawing Q-601 - 1 page”.

66 1383-A-410 Please confirm Herman Miller is BOD for the headwall system

Correct. Herman Miller Compass system is the BOD

67 1391-Q-601 Can you provide BOD for equipment/materials listed on this page?

BOD is based off the MILSTD 1691 JSN numbers provide general design requirments. No manufacture is specifically called out unless noted otherwise on the schedule and within the MILSTD 1691 guide.

68 1391-MS101

Please clarify intent on where the temporary AHU is to be set. Per 1391-MS101, is the unit planned to temporarily sit on the roof or on grade below? With grade below being the main entrance to the hospital, please confirm if the unit can be placed in the lawn north of the new primary care clinic space.

Contractor shall propose a location for the AHU based on the equipment proposed for temporary service, i.e. on grade, roof, or within the existing mechanical room.

69 RFP 2. Past Performance Factor Will CPARS be an acceptable substitute for Past Performance Questionnaires?

Yes. A Past Performance Questionnaire only needs to be submitted for projects listed under Factor 2 (Experience) if an evaluation is not available in CPARS for the projects listed.

70 AC 102

Drawing is a photometric layout, we assume this is not applicable?

Lighting submitted shall meet photometric requirements identified on

AC102.

71 EP -101 Note 2 Note 2 is shown in front of existing sub #10, is this note supposed to say something different?

Substation 10 is the proposed point of connection for new hydronic pump.

72 EP-100 note 2

Usually Mech provides VFDs, are they by Mech. Or Electrical?

The motor controllor specification is under Division 26. Contractor shall coordinate among trades.

73 EP-103, note 35-37

Usually Mech provides VFDs, are they by Mech. Or Electrical?

The motor controllor specification is under Division 26. Contractor shall coordinate among trades.

74 EP-100

Should P4 be from an emergency power source?

P4 shall be served from the existing panel currently serving the existing pump.

75 EP-103 note 8

Note says to stub conduit into ceiling, nurse call in this VA is typically 100% in raceway?

Complete conduit shall be provided for nurse call devices. See Specification 27 05 33.

76 EP-401 note 9

Detail F5 and F7 show note #9 by the room door, note 9 is for window shade control. Should this be a different note by the door?

Note 9 is correct in both locations. Refer to A-403, and A-404 for typical patient room layout – notes 4 and 13 call for roller shades at exterior windows and at charting area window directly across from patient bed.

77 E-601

Feeder for PP3A2-1 appears to be new?

Confirmed.

78 TD-103/T-103

Do the wireless access points get preserved in place and re-installed or are they new? If new what is the specified product?

Wireless access points shall be replaced with new in like locations.

Wireless heat map shall be used to validate final locations.

79 T-103i/T-601 Typically this VA installs new basket tray in the interstitial space for new Cat6A cable, it appears that they implying to use existing 6x6 wireway on T-103i but new basket tray on detail T-601 (above ceiling). Should new basket tray be installed in the interstitial space with conduit stubs for cable?

New basket cable tray shall be provided for new Cat 6A cable.

80 TY-103

What is the AVASURE system? Who provides/installs it? Is there a spec? Is there a single source company/product?

AVASure is patient monitoring system. Basis of Design is provided on TY103.

81 26 05 33 2.1C2 Yes. Minimum conduit size is ¾”.

Are set screw connectors and couplings acceptable for EMT ½” and up

82 27 05 33 2.1 C3 Are set screw connectors and couplings acceptable for EMT ¾” and

Yes. Minimum conduit size is ¾”.

83 28 05 28.33 2.4C Are set screw connectors and couplings acceptable for EMT ¾” and

Yes. Minimum conduit size is ¾”.

84 27 51 23 This spec is for intercom systems, is it applicable? We do not see any on the project

Contractor shall integrate new speakers with the existing intercom system.

85 26 09 23 Is Lutron the only acceptable lighting control system or is Accuity acceptable?

Equivalent substitutions will be evaluated during Shop Submittals.

86 28 13 00 We assume we are connecting to the existing Lenel PACS system?

Confirmed.

87 28 23 00 We assume we are connecting to the existing video surveillance system?

Confirmed.

88 T-103 Says to use Plenum cable, we assume riser is acceptable since this space is not plenum?

Plenum rated cable shall be used.

89 T-901 Specifies Commscope cat 6A, is an alternate product acceptable?

Superior Essex 6H-272-EA?

Equivalent substitutions will be evaluated during Shop Submittals.

90 T-902 Species Commscope fiber, are alternates acceptable?

Equivalent substitutions will be evaluated during Shop Submittals.

91 Please confirm the pre-determined intervals in which the photographic documentation is to be done.

Photographs shall be captured daily and may be captured by the General Contractor’s QCM, Super or Trade personnel.

92 Please confirm this project must meet the buy American act requirements.

Per FAR 25.202(c), when construction is over $7,032,000, the Trade Agreement requirements apply in lieu of the Buy America statute. See FAR 25.4 - Trade Agreements.

93 Can the contractor QC manager serve as the photographer if they meet the requirement of having experience photographing construction projects. The term “Commercial Photographer” is vague, has no licensing requirements or any other information required.

Yes, QCM or other employee may be used.

94 Please provide a hazardous material survey. If one is not available shall a testing budget be established?

Hazardous Material is not applicable to Building 70.

95 Please confirm if this project will require a Special Inspector of Record (SIOR) or if the VA will be satisfied with the contractor QC Manager serving this function and supervising all independent Special Inspectors required by the contract documents.

SIOR is not required for this contract. QCM may supervise/coordinate third-party inspectors.

96 Third party inspections for ALL trades are referenced in numerous documents which contradict Section 01 45 35 and 01 45 35.01.

Please provide clarification if the VA will require inspection for ALL trades or if the contractor is required to provide per section 01 45 35 and 01 45 35.01. Inspections for ALL trades will be extremely time consuming and have a significant cost impact to the VA.

Third Party inspections are required for all divisions as indicated in the Specifications.

97 If the VA requires inspections for ALL trades, please provide a schedule of inspection for trades not shown in 01 45 35.01.

Third Party inspections are required for all divisions as indicated in the Specifications. Contractor shall develop and submit schedule of inspections for approval. However, the VA is responsible for final approval on inspections.

98 Please confirm that all firestopping must be either installed by an FM global approved contractor, or a UL qualified firestop contractor certified.

Confirmed.

99 Please confirm that the telecommunications contractor must submit copies of system manufacturer certification for all technicians. The Contractor shall provide proof project superintendent with BICSI Certified Commercial Installer Level 1, Level 2, or Technician to provide oversight of the project.

Confirmed.

100 Please confirm cable installer must have on staff a Registered Communication Distribution Designer (RCDD) certified by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI).

Confirmed.

101 Please confirm the RCDD licensed staff member shall be on-site throughout the life of the project to oversee all telecommunications and security scope and shall provide consistent oversight of the project cabling throughout design, layout, installation, termination, and testing

RCDD licensed staff member shall be on-site for all Division 27 and 28 scope.

If the VA requires inspections for ALL trades, please provide a schedule of inspection for trades not shown in 01 45 35.01.

Third Party inspections are required for all divisions as indicated in the Specifications. Contractor shall develop and submit schedule of inspections for approval. However, the VA is responsible for final approval on inspections.

103 1391-T-901 Axis Cameras shall be submitted. The Minneapolis VA has standardized on this Basis of Design.

Please verify Camera Model - typically the VA uses Axis Cameras, drawing says Wisenet XNP-6230H with PTZ, Motion Sensor, Auto tracking dome with wall mount

104 Scope of Work dated 10/20/2022 Section 3 paragraph b.-Says “Provide access control for all the required doors, coordinate with door hardware schedule for additional requirement.” System will be Lenel OnGuard tied to existing Lenel OnGuard System?

Confirmed, Lenel OnGuard is the existing head-end and shall be used.

105 Where is the existing Executone head end located? Existing Executone head end is located at the nurse station.

106 On the walk through they stated anti-ligature devices are required in 3D-131 and 3D-132?

a. Safer rooms are not a complete anti-ligature/mental health build-out. The following limited provisions are included with the design of these “Safer” spaces:

i. Rolling door to conceal head wall. See specification 08 33 00.

ii. Hard-lid ceiling (GWB)

iii. Anti-ligature fixtures for eliminating opportunity for spontaneous self-harm – so not a full anti-ligature package like in a mental health unit- but items that present an opportunity for spontaneous self-harm (ex. shower curtain rods, grab bar, toilet tissue dispenser)- but not the full package (sprinkler heads do not need to be anti-lig, door hardware does not need to be anti-lig).

iv. Psych grab bars & psych TP dispenser on A-403 in our JSN tags/equipment list.

v. Rolling shutter at head wall is keynoted and is shown on the door schedule for the safer rooms. See specification 08 33 00.

vi. Section 10 28 00 Toilet, Bath & Laundry Accessories has language for particular accessories for mental health spaces.

We have several questions regarding the AHU equipment. Reference Drawing 1391-MS101

1. There is nothing showing the existing unit to be removed.

a. Is this by others?

b. What are the current energy sources and sizes for this unit?

c. Do the current energy sources remain or get removed?

2. There is a note for the Contractor to provide a temporary unit for the duration of the project. There is no sizing or location

Existing Air Handling Unit shall be removed by the General Contractor.

New unit is being served by the same existing services that have been reconfigured to serve the new unit.

Temporary Unit shall be sized to match the new unit. Pre-Construction TAB is required to validate CFM on each Supply Air branch. Existing flow shall be maintained at all times.

provided. If it is to be set on the roof, Owner needs to provide structural review/approval for placement.

a. Does the current unit work?

b. What does that unit service?

c. Why can we not use the existing unit as the temporary?

3. There is not an architectural or structural plan to show the location of the new AHU.

4. If the new AHU is going on the existing curb, will structural reinforcing be required to support the new point loading?

5. If a roof patch or repair is required, is the current roof under a warranty that needs to be maintained? By whom?

6. Please provide an Existing / Temporary / NEW AHU is existing roof plan, temporary AHU roof plan, and new AHU roof plan.

Temporary unit may be located on-grade, on the roof or within the existing mechanical room. Contractor shall submit proposed equipment and phasing for review.

The existing unit is operational and currently serves the third floor.

New structural curb shall be provided.

Existing roof warranty shall be maintained.

108 1.21 B. 6. “pre-foundation utilities and site utilities shall be documented prior to pouring footers, placing concrete and/or backfilling. This process shall include all underground and in-slab utilities within the building(s) envelope(s) and utility runs in the immediate vicinity of the building(s) envelope(s). This may also include utilities enclosed in slab-on-deck in multi-story buildings.” It would appear that non of this works is applicable? Please confirm? If not applicable can we assume there is no scope to perform for this section?

Confirmed.

109 .21 B. 8. “As-built conditions of exterior skin and elevations shall be documented with an increased concentration of digital photographs as directed by the COR in order to capture predetermined focal points, such as waterproofing, window flashing, radiused steel work, architectural or Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) detailing. Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to ensure maximum coverage.

Indexing and navigation accomplished through interactive elevations or elevation details.” It would appear that non of this works is applicable? Please confirm? If not applicable can we assume there is no scope to perform for this section?

Confirmed.

110 1.21 B. 12. “Monthly (29 max) exterior progressions (360 degrees around the project) and slideshows (all elevations and building envelope). The slideshows allow for the inclusion of Minneapolis Renovate Private Patient Bed Ward 3D Building70

Confirmed.

Project #: 618-22-102 General Requirements 01 00 00 - 33 Department of Veterans Affairs pictures, aerial photographs, and timely images which do not fit into any regular monthly photopath. It would appear that non of this works is applicable? Please confirm? If not applicable can we assume there is no scope to perform for this section?

111 1.21 B.13. “Weekly (21 Max) Site Progressions - Photographic documentation capturing the project at different stages of construction. These progressions shall capture underground utilities, excavation, grading, backfill, landscaping and road construction throughout the duration of the project.” It would appear that non of this works is applicable?

Please confirm?

Confirmed.

112 1.21 B. 15 “Detailed Exact-Built of all Slabs for all project slab pours just prior to placing concrete or nas directed by the COR. It would appear that non of this works is applicable? Please confirm? If not applicable can we assume there is no scope to perform for this section?

Confirmed.

113 When does the window for QA end for project 618-22-102 at Mpls Va Medical Center Ward 3 end?

As stated in solicitation, questions concerning the solicitation will be accepted with a final cut-off date for question submission of 10:00 a.m. CT, April 4, 2023. You may find the solicitation 36C26323R0023 located on www.SAM.gov.

114 I saw that you were accepting bids for Privacy Glass and wanted to share our information with you. We have been manufacturing Privacy Glass for roughly a decade now.

An amendment will be published to the solicitation which includes a sign-in sheet showing which contractors attended the site visit that was held on March 28, 2023. You can reach out to these contractors to discuss sub-contracting opportunities. You may find the solicitation 36C26323R0023 located on www.SAM.gov.

115 Specification Section 01 45 00 – 08 states “The Contractor shall be required to: (a) commence work under this contract within 30 calendar days after the date the Contractor receives the notice to proceed, (b) prosecute the work diligently, and (c) complete the entire work ready for use not later than 365 calendar days after Notice to Proceed* The time stated for completion shall include final cleanup of the premises.” Attachment D-1 Drawing 1391-GI000 states “Period of performance is projected to be five-hundred forty (540)

The Period of Performance is 365 days after NTP. Drawing Sheet 1391-GI000 was updated. See “S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101 – 2 pages”.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sam.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7C%7Cd95cf5b6269a4484ae9308db305097e2%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638156894923053018%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bGZSFc9HhwmzKGmRefA%2FxS8hyPDTjzQ0gdEBnU3h9Ws%3D&reserved=0 https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sam.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7C%7Cd95cf5b6269a4484ae9308db305097e2%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638156894923053018%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bGZSFc9HhwmzKGmRefA%2FxS8hyPDTjzQ0gdEBnU3h9Ws%3D&reserved=0 calendar days.” The difference between 540 CD and 365 CD is significant. Please confirm the contract duration.

116 The Solicitation document states in Block 11 that the Period of Performance is 365 days. However, the drawings make reference in multiple places that the Period of Performance is 540 days. (GI000 in the top left corner.) Having just secured a similar size AHU for a project at the Minneapolis VAMC, we find 365 to be not enough time to complete the POP as the lead time on AHU would eat almost the full 365 days alone. Please clarify.

The Period of Performance is 365 days after NTP. Drawing Sheet GI000 was updated. There is a 90-day administrative NTP immediately after award to begin working on submittals for long lead time products. See “S06 Q_A Atch 6 - Revised Drawings GI000 and GI101 - 2 pages”.

11 73 00 Ceiling Mounted Patient Lift Systems. Does the VA wish to stay with their current vendor? Handicare 625lb Patient Lifts are already in use throughout VA Minneapolis.

Yes. Contractor to supply Medcare Brand patient lifts. See “S06 Q_A Atch 8 - Revised Atch E Brand Name J and A - 30 pages”

117 We missed the original walk through. Curious to see if it is possible to set up a site visit to review existing conditions?

Unfortunately, we are not able to honor your request to set up a second site visit to review existing conditions. An amendment will soon be published on the solicitation 36C26323R0023 located on www.SAM.gov, which will provide information shared during the site visit, along with questions received and the Government's responses.

118 Are Cutler Hammer Panels the sole source panelboard product? This is typical for this building.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

119 For Nurse Call is Cat6A required? On past projects it has not been required.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

120 We have overlaid the concrete beams with the floor plans to locate plumbing drain conflicts. Their appears to be 30+ potential conflicts of plumbing penetrations and concrete beams. Please advise how these are to be addressed.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

121 Section A. 4 Instructions to Offerors, 2. Past Performance Factor, d.

Past Performance Questionnaires states: “Each offeror shall send out Past Performance Questionnaires (Attachment H) to each of the offerors past performance references, to each of the Points of Contact

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sam.gov%2F&data=05%7C01%7C%7C6a467b5acbc446bead9008db3ad25c70%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638168447383020679%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=8kEptEM5V4RNG21A2pnnY42Ao5y8zDInflM61rz91T8%3D&reserved=0 identified in the contracts listed in the contractor’s Past Performance Information.” However, Section A.5 Evaluation Factors, Factor 4 – Past Performance states: “If the evaluation is available in CPARS, it shall be submitted with the proposal.” Please confirm that PPQs are not required for projects that have a CPARS evaluation.

122 Section A. 4 Instructions to Offerors, 2. Past Performance Factor seems to reference items that are to be provided in both Factor 2 Experience and Factor 4 Past Performance. Please confirm if the Subcontractor Consent letters should be included in Factor 2 or Factor 4. If they are to be included in Factor 2, do these count against the 15 page limitation for that section?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and

123 In Section A.5 Evaluation Factors, Factor 2: Experience, the description of relevancy states that projects should have been awarded within the last five years. However, the Submittal Requirements in the same section requires “…a minimum of three

(3) and a maximum of five (5) projects completed within the last five years (5) years…” Please confirm that the requirement for Factor 2 is for projects to have been completed within the last 5 years.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right

124 The requirement for Factor 1 – Technical Approach includes the draft schedule. Can the schedule be omitted from the page limitation for this factor?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

125 If an 11 x 17” page is included for a graphic (such as the schedule), would this count as one page or two?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

126 The RFP calls for 12 point font and doesn’t make an exception for the schedule. We could ask if they would allow a smaller font for the schedule as long as it is legible.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

127 Can Vicon be approved/listed as an approved equal for section 28 equipment?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right

128 I would like to submit the following substitution requests for the Acoustical Ceilings (09 51 00).

• The Finish Legend lists AT-1 as Armstrong Ultima #1911.

o We would like to propose an equal product for approval: USG Mars #86785.

• AT-2 is listed as Armstrong Fissured #755.

o We would like to propose an equal product for approval: USG Fissured #562.

• AT-3 is listed as Armstrong Clean Room Unperforated #870.

o We would like to propose an equal product for approval: USG Clean Room Class 100 Unperforated #56091.

• AT-5 is listed as Armstrong Woodworks Linear Veneered Planks.

o We would like to propose an equal product for approval: Acoustic Wood Designs Open Linear Veneered System.

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

129 Drawing AC101. Some of the patient lift tracks appear to terminate in the middle of the restroom. Should the tracks be extended to the toilet in all rooms?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right to not answer any RFIs/questions after the stated due date/time and will do so only if considered a significant impact to the project.

130 Drawing AC101. The fixed rails of the XY system in the bed area can be widened without incurring any additional cost. This would provide better lift coverage. Should the lifts be designed with the extra width?

This question was received late. Per the Pre-Bid Site Visit Agenda, on the third bullet of the second page, the Government reserves the right