S05 - Technical Questions - Hot Springs - 8.8.22.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND RESPONSE TRACKING SHEET - 36C77622B0032 - EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades Construction DBB Hot Springs

QUESTION

QUESTION RECEIVE

DATE

QUESTION

ANSWERED

DATE

CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS

VA RESPONSES TO QUESTIONS

1 6.13.22 7.15.22 Currently looking at this project for storefront framing and glazing. It appears the only items I would be bidding would be on the addition to building #1.

However, I am trying to find a door schedule indicating door types to see if there are any aluminum entrances and or borrow glass to include. I see a hardware schedule but no actual door schedule indicating door types. Please Advise

The project door schedule and elevations can be found on sheet 00- GI-006. See changes made in Amendment #1.

2 6.14.22 7.15.22 coating on two different glass surfaces. Is this what surface #4 is not advisable as it is exposed to the interior of the building and will be scratched and or damaged easily.

Please Advise

Glass Type GL-1 has been changed to have low-e coating only on the #2 surface. See Amendment #1.

3 6.13.22 7.15.22 Im working on putting together for doors and hardware and door schedule on 00-GI-006 openings 12-B001A.0 and 18-002.0 do not have types for doors and frames and does not say it is existing.

Please advise.

Door 12-B001A.0 has a painted HM door panel and painted frame.

Door 18-002.0 has a painted HM door panel and painted frame.

Additional door schedule changes have been made in Amendment #1.

4 6.24.22 7.15.22 Are the QC Manager, SSHO, and Project superintendent all independent of each other?

These will be separate individuals.

5 6.28.22 7.15.22 Can we get a picture of an existing 800 amp and 1600 amp breaker catalog number information in Building 12 got for the Eaton PRL4 DRAW OUT Breakers Note 6 on Sheet EK-103?

See appendix C.

6 6.28.22 7.15.22 Can you verify that this project is not required to include moving existing Nurse Call Connections to new Data Closets or Is there a note or spec in the documents that you can refer to that requires this?

The two nurse call systems are isolated from the VA OIT Network system. However, it is believed some of the infrastructure is located in the older TR’s. The nurse call systems will not be relocated. These two systems are located around the clinical areas in building 12 on ground, 1st floor primarily, with the potential of some connections in the basement.

7 6.28.22 7.15.22 Can you verify that this project is not required to include moving existing Security and Camera cables from old to new Data Closets? Or is there a note or specification in the documents that you can refer to that requires this?

8 6.28.22 7.15.22 Please verify that this project will be provided with adequate facility staff support to schedule access to multiple facilities for work scope to be performed simultaneously daily.

Cabling and conduit routing will require several crews in several areas each to perform the work in the time allowed by project documents.

Contractor shall provide a list of individuals to get access TR rooms in addition to an RCDD certified individual. This was indicated in the statement of work and specifications. Only contractor/subs that pass clearance will have access to active telecommunications rooms (TRs) and act as a sentry for a single TR room when accessed. Facilities and/or VA OIT will not be

01 00 00 spec.

Provide registered RCDD supervision during construction. Per 28 13 00 spec.

Cable installer must have on staff a Registered Communication Distribution Designer (RCDD) certified by Building Industry Consulting Service International. The staff member shall provide consistent oversight of the project cabling throughout design, layout, installation, termination and testing.

Tentative overview:

Interim background check/onboarding will be via flash badging (two forms of ID, sponsored by VA individual, completed at the local VA. (good for 180 days). Completed just after award. Contractor will need enough authorized individuals to support construction

Beyond 180 days will need a full PIV badge (same as an employee) background search to include E-QIP, etc. background check. Again, contractor will need enough authorized individuals to support construction efforts for

This shall be initiated with the contractor and VA COR within one month of award due to the length of this process.

9 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note 9 on sheet 012TJ-01C for four floors of building 12. Is that a separate conduit to each of the 4 floors from the source?

Fiber can be routed in one riser conduit and drop off to each floor

10 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note 9 on Sheet 012TJ -01C or is that one conduit from the source that continues thru and to each floor

See #9

11 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note 9 on Sheet 012TJ-01C does this conduit require any maxicell 3-cell divider socks?

Not inside of the building

12 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note 9 on Sheet 012TJ-O1C Are all three lines requir

Yes, secondary/primary/analog cabling requires separate raceways

13 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note 9 on Sheet 012TJ-01C the S stand for Secondary, the P stands for Primary, What does the A stand for?

A is for analog telephone cabling

14 6.28.22 7.15.22 TS-001 Site seems to indicate all existing Cables and pathways except for the new ductbank from Building 65 to Building 66. Is it correct to say everything else is existing. Pathways?

All pathways are existing except for the new Building 66 ductbank and new conduit from Building 13 and 14 for horizontal cabling (not shown on this plan, see question 68), cabling shall be new where called for in fiber and analog site plans.

15 6.28.22 7.15.22 Note D on TS-001 calls for new conduit from Building 65 thru Building 12. HOW MANY AND WHAT SIZE

? IS MAXICELL INNERDUCT 3 CELL SOCKS

REQUIRED IN ANY OF THESE?

No Maxcell required for this conduit. Conduit routing is shown on Building 12 plans, size of conduit and pull boxes shall be per contractor based on OD of cabling used.

16 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 065-tn-012.3, detail 2, the wording is too blurry to read.

See reissued sheet

17 7.6.22 7.15.22 SEVERAL OF THE TK SHEETS WITH EXISTING

PATCH PANEL SCHEDUALS DO NOT HAVE THE

BUILDING OR ROOM LABLED, CAN THESE BE

CLARIFIED?

See reissued sheets

18 7.6.22 7.15.22 Please define their responsibilities of the RCDD more clearly. Are there other qualifications that will be considered equal to a RCDD (Bicsi Technician or

See item 8 above. An RCDD will not have a substitute qualification.

Bicsi Project manager)? Due to the sensitive to be contracted directly with the VA/Owner instead of the contractor?

19 7.6.22 7.15.22 The BICSI requirements are listed in Division 28 specifications, not Division 27, please clarify.

See item 8 above.

Listed in 27 05 26, Perform tests per BICSI Information Technology Systems Installation Methods Manual (ITSIMM), Recommended Testing Procedures and Criteria. https://www.bicsi.org/education- certification/education-@-bicsi-learning-academy/technical- publications/information-technology-systems-installation- methods-manual-8

20 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet Tj-

21 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 0012-TD-0B1A, DETAIL 2, THE EXISTING

PBX ROOM AB06 DOES NOT LIST THE EXISTING

TELECOM EQUIPMENT, PLEASE CLEARIFY.

No equipment is being demolished in this room. Backbone cabling will be removed from frames as it is pulled back per analog demolition plan.

22 7.6.22 7.15.22 Can pictures be provided of the inside of the exiting manholes that new fiber is to be installed and old cables removed?

See appendix A.

23 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet ts-002, are the sheet notes a & b, shown on the plan as the flag notes 1 & 2?

Yes

24 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 029-tn-0b1, sheet note 2 refers to a 2nd floor TR, there is no plan for a 2nd floor of this building, please clarify.

Please disregard 2nd floor reference for this building

25 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 029-tn-0b1, sheet note 4 refers to sheet TK- 128, this is a fiber one line, please clarify why.

Disregard this reference to TK-128

26 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet Ts-001, general note B lists buildings (1-14, 17,18,20,43,66) will receive primary and secondary fiber from building 65. Sheet TK-129, b-side fiber one-line does not show buildings 4,13,14,17,18,20,43 and sheet TK-128, a-side fiber one-line does not show buildings 4 or 13. Please clarify.

in Building 4, no B-side fiber to 14, 17, 18, 20, 43.

27 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet TS-001, general note B conflicts with the fiber pathway schedule, please clarify.

Schedule is correct, secondary fiber was removed from most outbuildings and General Note B did not get updated.

28 7.6.22 7.15.22 Does building 4 require new fiber? Both a & b side? Does each exiting TR for building 4 get an individual

Yes, http://www.bicsi.org/education-homerun? Sheet 004-TN-0B1, notes 1, 2&3, call for new fiber but the fiber one-lines do not show it.

29 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is there a plan of the arcade area that shows the existing locations of the fiber distribution boxes and telephone terminal boards (A9 & A10)? Also, is there an overall plan of the arcade area (to scale)?

See appendix D and F -19-information.

30 7.6.22 7.15.22 Plan sheet 003-td-0b1 references plan 003-td-0b2 for the TR details, that sheet is not in the issued documents.

See Sheet 003-TD-0B2 attached.

31 7.6.22 7.15.22 Do the 48 port Cat6A patch panels in the new TRs (not the MCR) need to be HD (high density) Angled, 1u? OR can SD 48 port 2u flat patch panels be used in the TRs?

VA standard is 48 port, 1RU, angled

32 7.6.22 7.15.22 Do the Fiber patch panels in the TRs need to be HD angled? Or will SD (standard density) flat fiber patch panels be acceptable?

Flat is acceptable for fiber panels

33 7.6.22 7.15.22 Building 66, sheet 066-td-011 does not identify the existing telephone punch down blocks in the existing telcom room, the analog site plans shows to leave the existing copper backbone, but sheet 006-tn-011 shows the

(A) service entering the new TR 132.

What is the scope of work for this copper backbone, can we extend from the exiting punch down blocks to the new TR?

Yes, the intent is to provide a new 25-pair backbone from the existing punchdowns in the existing telecom room to a voice patch panel in the new telecom room.

34 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is there existing surge / lighting protection on the existing analog backbone cabling between buildings? If not, does it need to be included in the scope of work?

The analog backbone between buildings will remain to support active components such as the mass communication system, faxes, elevators, red phones to enter buildings after hours, etc. hence any existing surge / lightning protection will remain. The intent is to remove abandoned analog within the buildings.

35 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is the new copper backbone cabling for analog lines Cat3 or Cat5e?

Cat 3

36 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet TK-101, can the locations (or a room number) of the telephone termination boards listed for buildings 1, 52, 11, 12, 5, 2 and the arcade (A9, A10)be located on the plan sheets for those buildings?

Locations are typically in the telephone closets adjacent to network closets and in most cases are marked with telephone punchdown equipment tags. See appendix D and E for record drawing information.

37 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet Tk-134, detail 3, note 1; states that the new backbone is to be landed on telephone patch panels. Several new TRs show the telephone backbone at a wall location not in the racks, example room 103 indicate telephone backboard only for routing of cabling on plywood-covered walls if needed.

building 3. Which is correct, new wall fields then cross connect to the voice patch panel or terminate new telephone backbone directly to voice patch panels where there is new backbone?

38 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is there a color standard for the Cat6a cabling and ect?

See appendix B for all CAT6A cable colors.

39 7.6.22 7.15.22 What is the cable pair count between TC3, TC2 and A23 in building 53, sheet TK-101?

A23 to TC3 is a 50 pair and 25 pair, A23 to TC2 is a 25 pair.

record drawing information.

40 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 011-TN-0B1, SHEET NOTE 8, refers to analog telephone cable for TR routed to cabinet A10, sheet TK- 101 shows A010 being demolished, please clarify.

Intent is to allow use of existing pathways to extent possible through A-10 location back to A-9 for connection to existing 600pr. Direct routing to A-9 is also acceptable.

41 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 065-tn-012.3, detail 2, the wording is too blurry to read.

Repeat from above.

42 7.6.22 7.15.22 SEVERAL OF THE TK SHEETS WITH EXISTING

PATCH PANEL SCHEDUALS DO NOT HAVE THE

BUILDING OR ROOM LABLED, CAN THESE BE

CLARIFIED?

Repeat from above.

43 7.6.22 7.15.22 Please define their responsibilities of the RCDD more clearly. Are there other qualifications that will be considered equal to a RCDD (Bicsi Technician or Bicsi Project manager)? Due to the sensitive to be contracted directly with the VA/Owner instead of the contractor?

See item 8 above.

44 7.6.22 7.15.22 Are the cameras which are to be extended off of the campus Milestone Video Management System intended to be included within the JCI sole source justification?

Yes.

45 7.6.22 7.15.22 Will the entire fiber infrastructure serving the security systems today be updated with new (i.e. 10GB SM fiber)?

If so, are diverse paths to be incorporated for this system as well in consideration that these do not exist today?

Fiber to Johnson Controls security systems will need new mode fiber to integrate into the fiber back bone. Johnson controls switches do not require diverse pathing.

46 7.6.22 7.15.22 What color shall be used for security network data cabling?

The current campus standard is yellow.

What color shall be used for data cabling?

See appendix B for all CAT6A cable colors.

47 7.6.22 7.15.22 Regarding two (2) IDF closets located in Buildings 5 & 12 (Bldg 5 TR-211 & Bldg 65 Data Center 109) of which each are to receive a flooring update. Are the Security IT Racks to be temporarily removed from the room in its entirety while the flooring is updated?

Bldg 5 is converting office space to a new TR and therefore will not have remaining IT racks in place at the time of new floor installation.

Bldg 65 Room 109 is not receiving new flooring other than replacement raised access floor tiles as necessary.

49 7.6.22 7.15.22 Are existing security data drops (i.e. PACS, camera, etc.) to be replaced with new?

Johnson Conrols security devices CATx will not be upgraded.

50 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is the existing fiber associated with the fire alarm system to be upgraded? Currently, the fire alarm network consists of both fiber and copper interconnections, of the fiber strands used, several strands (if not all of them) were made available from previous blown in fiber across campus. Please advise.

If CATx, then upgrade to CAT6A. If (likely multimode) fiber, it shall be upgraded to single mode fiber with appropriate transponder to integrate into the fiber back bone. See appendix B on CAT6A color. End device sensors (smoke/heat alarms) will not have cable upgraded/changed.

51 7.6.22 7.15.22 Request-to-Exit motion sensors are recommended for each PACS door in order to adhere to campus standards and provide proper door monitoring.

These are installed on the secure side of the door generally centered 1-mounted to the wall or ceiling (whichever is preferred, rough-in is a horizontal single gang). Are these to be included?

Yes.

52 7.6.22 7.15.22 DOES THE EXISTING 600pr TELEPHONE

BACKBONE CABLE BETWEEN PBX AND MRC

NEED CROSS CONNECTED BETWEEN THE

PUNCH DOWN BLOCKS IN THE MCR CLOSET

AND THE NEW MCR CABINETS?

Existing connections to the voice gateways are spread over multiple cables and shall be migrated to the remaining 600 pair cable. Assume 200 pairs or less will be migrated by the contractor.

53 7.6.22 7.15.22 THE NEW TR FOR BUILDING 53 IS LABELED

WRONG ON SHEETS TK-130, TK-128 & TK-129,

SHOULD IT BE ROOM 102B?

Correct. The new TR in Building 53 should be labeled 102B.

54 7.6.22 7.15.22 IS THERE A NEED FOR (2) 24 PORT PHONE

PATCH PANELS IN ROOM 102B BLD 53, IF THERE

IS ONLY (1) 25 PR BACKBONE? (EXAMPLE OF

TRs WITH MORE THAN 1 RACK)

Only one patch panel required for one 25 pair cable.

55 7.6.22 7.15.22 DOES THE NEW TELEPHONE BACKBONE BETWEEN

BUILDING 53 AND PBX NEED TOBE UNDERGROUND

RATED?

If cabling is routed through existing underground pathway it should be rated accordingly.

56 7.6.22 7.15.22 CAN THE CONDUITS FOR THE FIBER AND

TELEPHONE BACKBONE BE SHOWN ON THE PLANS

THE WHOLE ROUTE, FOR EXAMPLE

Conduits shall be routed through Building 12 adjacent space, contractor has option of using existing pathways for some cabling.

PLAN 053-TN-0B1, BUILDING 53 FIRST FLOOR,

THE CONDUITS STOP AND ARE NOT

CONTINUED INTO BUILDING 12.

57 7.6.22 7.15.22 SHEET 012-TJ-0B1A, sheet note 8 for the secondary fiber, is this conduit routed outside?

Yes, new underground conduit is required between buildings.

58 7.6.22 7.15.22 DOES THE NEW TELEPHONE BACKBONE CABLE

NEED TO BE PLENUM RATED?

From project specifications, if any part of the cable passes exposed through a plenum space it shall be plenum-rated.

Most buildings require conduit for the entire route, or cabling is routed through existing raceways so can be riser-rated. It is the during installation. Buildings with j-hooks/cable tray above ceiling will typically require plenum-rated cable.

59 7.6.22 7.15.22 PLEASE IDENTIFY AREAS WHERE THE FIBER

AND TELEPHONE BACKBONE CABLING NEEDS

TO BE PLENUM RATED.

See question 58.

60 7.6.22 7.15.22 Please identify where horizontal Cat6A cabling is required to be Plenum rated.

See question 58.

61 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 002-tn-0b1, detail 3, where is the detail for the Section 1 reference line?

Disregard the reference line, no detail is included.

62 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is ladder rack or cable tray required in the TRs? Cable tray for horizontal applications, ladder rack if vertical support is required.

63 7.6.22 7.15.22 Is the ladder rack/cable tray in the TRs the width scaled on the plan sheets, no sizes are identified on the plan sheets?

64 7.6.22 7.15.22 No fiber optic cable raceway is shown on the plans, is it required in the MCR or TRs?

MCR cable tray requires separate fiber pathway, see 065-TN- 012.1.

65 7.6.22 7.15.22 No vertical ladder rack is shown on the plan sheets, do any of the TRs require it?

See question 62.

66 7.6.22 7.15.22 Are Cat6a patch cords required to be provided by the contractor for the workstation side, patch panel side or both?

See appendix B.

67 7.6.22 7.15.22 Please clarify what cables need removed from the exiting duct banks, blow-in fiber and buildings.

See appendix A for the outlier and typical manhole layout.

68 7.6.22 7.15.22 What are the requirements for the new conduits between building 13 and 14 for data cabling? Is concrete required? Is there a site plan that shows the routing? (sheet note 4, plan

013-TN-011)

Provide a single 2 buildings along most direct route. Original intent was to route back through existing duct bank, but overall distance of cable

69 7.6.22 7.15.22 Building 11 shows the data cabling as existing (sheets 011-TD-0B1 & 011-TN-0B1) do these locations need re-cabled to new patch panels in the new TR rack, or are the existing cables to be left in place and relocated to the new TR rack?

Per General Note D, existing outlets are being recabled to new TR.

70 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet 065-ep-012.1, the details are too blurry to read, can these be reissued?

See reissued sheets.

71 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheets 065-TN-012.1, 012.2, 012.3 details are too blurry to read, can they be reissued or the VA standards with details referenced be issued?

See reissued sheets.

72 7.6.22 7.15.22 The a-side fiber for building 66 is currently entering the building at IT127 the plan shown new conduit entering the building, please clarify. Sheet note 6, sheet 006-TN-

Existing duct bank to existing closet shall be used for a-side fiber, b-side shall be routed in new duct bank. Telephone cable shall extend from existing closet.

73 7.6.22 7.15.22 Building 43, sheet 043-TD-011, sheet note 1, is there more information on the exiting telecom rack / telephone punch downs?

There is an existing telecom cabinet and telephone punchdowns at the west end of the basement.

74 7.6.22 7.15.22 Sheet TK-102 equipment schedule, some of the buildings list a primary and secondary fiber, but the plans only show a primary fiber, please clarify.

Examples; Buildings 14,17,18,20,23,29 column primary, 24 secondary

See questions 26 and 27, secondary/B-side fiber was removed from these buildings.

75 7.7.22 7.15.22 Referencing General Notes 2 & 3 on Drawing OO- HA-

000.1 - I am requested a confirmation that the abatement scope will depend upon the contractor's "MEANS AND METHODS" and not to the extent of the quantities listed? " .. .IF THAT WORK WOULD

NOT RESULT IN ADDITIONAL COSTS TO THE

OWNER TO AVOID THOSE "COMMON

HAZARDOUS

BUILDING MATERIALS", THEN THOSE

MATERIALS SHALL BE AVOIDED."

If the GENERAL NOTES & QUANTITIES and locations are indeed required for removal, is it the intent to have all electrical equipment or other furnishings/fixtures removed and reinstalled for access to remove the materials listed?

76 7.7.22 7.15.22 Referencing General Note 7 on Drawing OO-HA-

000.1 - Who will be the VA retained Professional Industrial Hygienist (VPIH/CIH)?

Disregard General Note 7 on drawings 00-HA-000.1 and see response to comment 77 below.

77 7.7.22 7.15.22 Referencing OO-GI-003 Hazardous Materials Note 2 From my understanding, although a GENERAL NOTES & QUANTITIES OO-HA-000.1 was included, Note 2 requires "ASBESTOS TESTING OF ALL MATERIALS

AFFECTED WITHIN PROJECT SCOPE PRIOR TO

DEMOLITION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED IS

REQUIRED. REFER TO SPECIFICATION SECTION

02 82 11 FOR MATERIAL PRE-TESTED,

QUANTITIES, AND MECHANICAL DRAWINGS FOR

SPECIFIC PENETRATIONS AND CABLE ROUTING

TO DATA

PORTS IN EACH ROOM." The note goes on to indicate that the abatement contractor is to reference " ...

MECHANICAL DRAWINGS

FOR SPECIFIC PENETRATIONS AND CABLE

ROUTING TO DATA PORTS IN EACH ROOM." Will the abatement contractor negotiate a change order for the additional testing and removal and disposal costs if impacted Hazardous Materials are fotmd outside the

GENERAL NOTES & QUANTITIES ?

Hazardous Material Note 2 on drawing 00-GI-003 shall be

82 00 FOR MATERIAL PRE-TESTED, QUANTITIES, AND

MECHANICAL DRAWINGS FOR SPECIFIC PENETRATIONS

AND CABLE ROUTING TO DATA PORTS IN EACH ROOM. IF

MATERIAL, NOT ANNOTATED IN THE CONTRACT

DOCUMENTS AS CONTAINING HAZARDOUS MATERIAL, IS

SUSPECT OF CONTAINING HAZARDOUS MATERIAL, THE

CONTRACTOR SHALL REQUEST FROM THE VA TO TEST THE

MATERIAL. A CHANGE ORDER WILL BE NEGOTIATED TO

COVER THE COST OF THE TESTING AND ANY

78 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the company that provides Fire Alarm panels and servicing at the facility? Is every building under one provider? Name all providers specific to each building they monitor and protect?

Johnson Controls. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

79 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the Access Control & Camera company providing service to the facility? Is it the same in every building?

Johnson Controls. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

80 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the BAS/Controls company providing service to the facility? Is it the same in every building?

Temperature Technology Inc. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

81 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please identify which buildings have ICRA concerns.

Which buildings have hospital work and which ones are administrative?

of ICRA levels by building and room.

82 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please consider and clarify that multiple project buildings can be scheduled for work simultaneously knowing that each building will have several phases of worker activities.

A&E thinks this would be necessary to meet the 365 pop. See question 8 above. We suggest the outer buildings and domicilary (donut structure) become the first effort, and buildings 65/12/53 staged after.

83 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please clarify what is expected for seismic bracing at this project site in regard to its specific area risk. Will sway bracing be required on electrical conduits that are hung on redi-rod or by aircraft cable. Will seismic bracing be required for HVAC equipment and ducts?

Refer to specification section 13 05 41 for seismic bracing requirements. Equipment and ducts will be required to be braced except for items excluded via paragraph 1.5-B. The ASCE seismic criteria for this project is design category B, risk category II (as shown on the structural documents).

84 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please explain what is needed for a coordination study for Building 4 Existing Breaker panels when adding breakers.

No coordination study is required if listed breakers are added to branch panels only.

85 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please confirm no new switchgear and generator will be needed for this project.

Review drawings for Building 10.

86 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide a Geotech report for the new utility work and foundations. Is rock excavation anticipated at any location onsite? Will rock excavation be considered an unforeseen condition and treated as an extra?

The VA was not able to find a previous report to share. Large rock excavation is not anticipated, and would be considered an unforseen condition if a mitigation effort is not identified.

87 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please detail what is needed for Lightning Protect that is specified. Is it only for the addition to structure? Do we just extend existing protection? Will a UL certification be required? Please provide a LP plan.

Provide lightning protection only for the new additions per specification section 264100. UL certification is required, LP plan of existing building is not available and addition should have standalone protection as the capacity and integrity of existing systems for extension is not known.

88 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide existing electrical one lines power distribution drawings for each building showing what will be demolished where applicable.

Distribution is new from existing system, with the demolition and replacement of the generator and transfer switch in Building 10 being an exception. See appendix G one-line electrical drawings from record files for reference, these were included in the drawings for the big buildings.

89 7.7.22 7.15.22 Will infection control temp walls need to be 1HR rated?

Are STARC Fireblock systems required for the ICRA barrier? If not will a Edge Guard wall be sufficient?

Rated temporary walls and barriers are only required where rated walls/doors are removed during work. Match the rating of the assembly removed.

90 7.7.22 7.15.22 01 00 00 -13 For office furniture moving, will personnel items be removed by the VA or will the Contractor need to box items and reset as needed? Please provide approximate amount of furniture pieces that will need to be relocated.

The VA will remove personal items from the affected areas.

Approximate furniture would align with a typical hospital setting, and the need for the contractor to access data wall plates and ceilings.

91 7.7.22 7.15.22 Our interpretation of the specifications shows that (1) individual can be SSHO / QC / Superintendent.

Please confirm this is correct as we feel this is light requirement for personnel requirements on this large of a job.

These will be separate individuals.

92 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please confirm work hours for this project. Are there any specific tasks or trade division that must be on overtime (01 Infection Control, 02 Demolition, 02 Abatement)?

Are there any areas of work that must be on overtime (Hallways, Occupied Areas, Etc.)?

of times each room is avialable to work in. Coordinate your proposed work schedule with the VA.

93 7.7.22 7.15.22 The pricing schedule breaks out general construction, mechanical and electrical work per each CLIN item.

Please confirm that all CLIN items will be awarded as a lump sum grand total.

The price schedule specifically states in the solicitation that:

1. Line Item 0001 (General Construction), 0002 (Mechanical Work) and 0003 (Electrical Systems Work) contain all the work for this project.

2. Bidders must provide a lump sum price for Line Item 0001

0003. Failure to do so may render their bid as nonresponsive.

This is all part of the award.

94 7.7.22 7.15.22 The pricing schedule shows Pop Start and PoP end date following the description of the CLIN item. Are prime contractors to write in the PoP start and end dates?

Typically, the PoP is shown on the SF1442.

Page 1 of the 1442 (11.) gives the period of performance of 365 days after notice to proceed. Only thing the contractors need to do is insert there pricing for each of the CLINS and then the grand total.

Contractors are not to fill out the POP information within the price schedule.

95 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the following specification sections that are missing: Spray Foam Insulation

-Applied in the spec will be considered.

96 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are prime contractors responsible to provide submittal exchange and pay for all costs associated with the program for the project?

buildingblok.com) as a tool for Submittals and RFIs at no cost to the contractor. The winning construction contractor would need to carry the cost for any alternate project management information system in their lump sum amount if the winning contractor decided to use something different, the VA and A/E would require access

97 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are general contractors required to test for asbestos and include these costs in the bid? If so, how many tests should be assumed?

See response to question #77 above.

98 7.7.22 7.15.22 connection to existing. There is no detail showing connection on plan page CG0100. Please provide additional drawings showing the asbuilt conditions.

re which is 6 feet deep.

99 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are there any constraints to phasing of this project? Can prime contractors assume that work can occur in buildings concurrently? How many buildings and rooms can contractors be in at one time? We would assume that 4 rooms minimum would be provided access to a work shift.

See 8 and 82, and 92. Working at all locations concurrently will not allow the hospital to function properly. As work is being relocatete temporarily.

100 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please confirm that ICRA infection control carts are an acceptable means of infection control for the hallway work. If so, are prime contractors required to furnish any to the VA once the project is complete?

A mobile ceiling containment cart is requried to be purchased and turned over to the VA. See spec section 015000 Temporary Facilities and Controls. Likely the contractor will have several HEPACARTS to complete the project in a timely manner.

101 7.7.22 7.15.22 At locations where ceilings are to be cut and patched on plaster surfaces, are prime contractors to provide a plaster patch? Or is steel stud and gypsum patch acceptable? The costs for plaster patch back would be significant on this project.

Steel stud and gypsum patch is acceptable make flush with existing finish and match the adjacent texture.

102 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are prime contractors to assume clean and suitable soil for backfill purposes?

Yes

103 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please confirm who is responsible to subcontract the CxA (Agent) commissioning agent for the project.

The general contractor is responsible for hiring the CxA (CxP).

104 7.7.22 7.15.22 When is the anticipated award date for this project? We ask due to concerns about winter conditions for the exterior work. Should prime contractors assume winter conditions in their proposals?

The anticipated Notice to Proceed date is Aug 31, 2022. Include winter conditions based on how you phase and schedule the work for the period of performance.

105 7.7.22 7.15.22 For work being performed within occupied spaces (rooms), are prime contractors able to section off this work area for the duration of the work? Or, do prime contractors have to have laborers set up and remove ICRA barriers and return the room to working condition by the following shift?

Assume any public/patient spaces will need to be returned to working condition at the end of each shift. Private/utility spaces can be sectioned off for the duration of work. See section

106 7.7.22 7.15.22 For work in hallways, are prime contractors able to keep ceilings accessible for multiple shifts? Are ceilings required to be closed following each shift?

Assume any public/patient spaces will need to be returned to working condition at the end of each shift. Private/utility spaces

This will swing labor costs and production rates substantially if areas need to be closed and cleaned up following each shift.

can be sectioned off for the duration of work. See section

107 7.7.22 7.15.22 Plan page 065-MH-011 shows new condensing units, however there are no details for concrete pads for support.

Please provide details. Also is the existing area asphalt or landscaping?

Pads are existing and the new condensing units are called to Schedule.

108 7.7.22 7.15.22 For the excavation scope of work - are prime contractors able to stockpile on site for re-use, or is all material imported in as new?

Excavated material can be stockpiled with remediation to the landscaping area after reuse.

109 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are Project Managers required to be on site and dedicated 100% full time to this project for the duration of the work?

Yes.

110 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the company that provides Fire Alarm panels and servicing at the facility? Is every building under one provider? Name all providers specific to each building they monitor and protect?

Johnson Controls. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

111 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the Access Control & Camera company providing service to the facility? Is it the same in every building?

Johnson Controls. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

112 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide the name of the BAS/Controls company providing service to the facility? Is it the same in every building?

Temp-Tech. Please see brand name or equal document that was posted with the IFB on SAM.GOV.

113 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please identify which buildings have ICRA concerns.

Which buildings have hospital work and which ones are administrative?

See 92.

114 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please consider and clarify that multiple project buildings can be scheduled for work simultaneously knowing that each building will have several phases of worker activities.

See 99.

115 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please clarify what is expected for seismic bracing at this project site in regard to its specific area risk. Will sway bracing be required on electrical conduits that are hung on redi-rod or by aircraft cable. Will seismic bracing be required for HVAC equipment and ducts?

See item 83.

116 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please explain what is needed for a coordination study for Building 4 Existing Breaker panels when adding breakers.

See item 84.

117 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please confirm no new switchgear and generator will be needed for this project.

See item 85.

118 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide a Geotech report for the new utility work and foundations. Is rock excavation anticipated at any location onsite? Will rock excavation be considered an unforeseen condition and treated as an extra?

See item 86.

119 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please detail what is needed for Lightning Protect that is specified. Is it only for the addition to structure? Do we just extend existing protection? Will a UL certification be required? Please provide a LP plan.

See item 87.

120 7.7.22 7.15.22 Please provide existing electrical one lines power distribution drawings for each building showing what will be demolished where applicable.

See item 88.

121 7.7.22 7.15.22 Will infection control temp walls need to be 1HR rated?

Are STARC Fireblock systems required for the ICRA barrier? If not will a Edge Guard wall be sufficient?

See item 89.

122 7.7.22 7.15.22 01 00 00 -13 For office furniture moving, will personnel items be removed by the VA or will the Contractor need to box items and reset as needed? Please provide approximate amount of furniture pieces that will need to be relocated.

See item 90.

123 7.7.22 7.15.22 Our interpretation of the specifications shows that (1) individual can be SSHO / QC / Superintendent.

Please confirm this is correct as we feel this is light requirement for personnel requirements on this large of a job.

See item 91.

124 7.7.22 7.15.22 Regarding the “S02 - Brand Name Justification - Hot Springs.pdf” on Sam.gov, specifically the door hardware “Corbin Russwin or LSDA (BEST Core compatible), CL-33 x NZD x 626 x M08, qty 35”

Please specify exact system.

Yes.

125 7.7.22 7.15.22 Are the cameras which are to be extended off of the campus Milestone Video Management System intended to be included within the JCI sole source justification?

See item 44.

126 7.7.22 8.4.22 Will the entire fiber infrastructure serving the security See item 45 systems today be updated with new (i.e. 10GB SM fiber)?

a. If so, are diverse paths to be incorporated for this system as well in consideration that these do not exist today?

If this is required, please provide a complete design/scope.

127 7.7.22 8.4.22 What color shall be used for security network data cabling? The current campus standard is yellow.

See item 46.

128 7.7.22 8.4.22 Regarding two (2) IDF closets located in Buildings 5 & 12 (Bldg 5 TR-211 & Bldg 65 Data Center 109) of which each are to receive a flooring update.

Are the Security IT Racks to be temporarily removed from the room in its entirety while the flooring is updated?

Regarding TR rooms such as, but not limited to, building 5 room 211 and and building 12 D104B (biomed) with existing equipment,we recommend the GC attempt to find solutions to minimize switch down time that affects the hospital operations including working weekends etc.

A solution may include switch/rack removal for a short window only at the discretion of the COR/VA_leadership. This will be a fluid decision at the time of construction for these rooms.

Second, GC shall provide cable labels that align with port numbers to allow quick disconnect of the switch/cabinet and reconnect by VA OIT.

This is to support unique access on each switch port.

Bldg 12 Data Center 109 is not receiving new floors. Bldg 5 TR 211 is called to receive new static disipative resilient flooring the same as all new TRs.

See item 47.

129 7.7.22 8.4.22 Are existing security data drops (i.e. PACS, camera, etc.) to be replaced with new?

No. More specifically any end devices CATx cable from the Johnson Controls switch will remain as is if active and needed. Per specifications anything that is abandoned shall be removed.

See item 49.

130 7.7.22 8.4.22 Is the existing fiber associated with the fire alarm system to be upgraded?

Please provide a complete design/scope.

See item 50.

131 7.7.22 8.4.22 Request-to-Exit motion sensors are recommended for each PACS door in order to adhere to campus standards and provide proper door monitoring. These are installed on the secure side of the door generally centered 1-2’ above the door opening while mounted to the wall or ceiling (whichever is preferred, rough-in is a horizontal single gang).

Are these to be included?

See item 51.

132 7.7.22 8.4.22 Please explain what is needed for a coordination study for Building 4 Existing Breaker panels when adding breakers.

See item 84.

133 7.7.22 8.4.22 The switchgear currently has an 80 week lead time from time of receipt of approved submittals.

Please confirm there will be an administrative NTP issued since the work would not be able to be completed in the specified 365cd’s if this duration is included.

Please revisit this issue with contracting and COR at the time of “apparent award”. GC must understand the relationship between lead times, notice to proceed, and period of performance.

134 7.7.22 8.4.22 Please detail what is needed for Lightning Protect that is specified.

a. Is it only for the addition to structure?

Do we just extend existing protection?

See answer to 87.

135 7.7.22 8.4.22 What is the name of the company that provides Fire Alarm panels and servicing at the facility?

Is every building under one provider?

The campus fire alarm is supported by Johson Controls. Please see “S02

- Brand Name Justification - Hot Springs.pdf” on Sam.gov.

See item 78.

136 7.7.22 8.4.22 What is the name of the access control & Camera company providing service to the facility?

Is it the same in every building?

The campus security system is supported by Johson Controls. Please see “S02 - Brand Name Justification - Hot Springs.pdf” on Sam.gov.

See item 79.

137 7.7.22 8.4.22 Please provide the ICRA Classification for each building/area.

See specification 01 35 26 table and supporting footprints in the drawing set.

138 7.7.22 8.4.22 In order to meet the specified 365cd schedule requirement, we will need to work in multiple buildings/areas at the same time.

Please confirm the VA will allow work to be performed in multiple builds and areas at the same time.

See answer to 8 and 82.

139 7.7.22 8.4.22 Please provide existing electrical one lines power distribution drawings for each building showing what will be demolished where applicable.

See item 88.

140 7.7.22 8.4.22 Please clarify what is expected for seismic bracing at this project site in regards to its specific area risk.

Will sway bracing be required on electrical conduits that are hung on redi-rod or by aircraft cable?

See answer to 83

141 7.7.22 8.4.22 To be compliant with the VA physical security requirement for telecommunications cabinets, should each cabinet have a cabinet door opening alert reported to the Johnson Controls security system?

Yes. Contractor shall include supporting infrastructure.

142 7.7.22 8.4.22 Buildings 3, 14, 17, 20, 29 require security devices for TR and cabinets. These currently do not have Johnson Controls security switches within 250 feet per the drawings/specifications. Please confirm this is a need to be compliant with VA security and the design?

Yes. Contractor shall include supporting infrastructure. Security switches shall be appropriately sized to align with existing infrastructure to meet functional needs.

143 7.29.22 8.4.22 WE WILL NOT INCLUDE DOING NEW STUDIES FOR

ALL THE SERVICES OR ANY SERVICES TO

FACILITIES BECAUSE IT IS ALL EXISTING and being extended PLEASE ACKNOWLEGE

Shop Drawings are to include the existing building services affected by the work.

144 8.3.22 8.4.22 The Generator Demo and Reinstall in Building 10 DOWNTIME. It seems like no matter what in the space designed we will have at least 2-4 days of where The generator is not available. Should we include a temporary Generator for those days ?

IF The existing ATS sits where the new generator goes, and

Contractor shall provide a temporary generator and/or automatic transfer switch and supporting infrastructure during the replacement window.

it appears it does, the outage will be longer and we will have to install the new ATS for temporary use with a temporary Generator

145 8.1.22 8.4.22 We intend to bid free air cabling and J-hooks to existing data jacks and utilize existing conduits in walls. The Free air method will be used in any recessed or accessible ceiling spaces.

We believe all existing outlets have conduit to them, and the design calls for this for all of the new outlets. If there are existing outlets that do not have conduit and we want them to install flex conduit to them, a modification once the number of outlets can be quantified. See Item 3 below regarding updates to drawing TJ-001 item HH. Price should include 100% all labor and associated hardware for usage of conduit, cable trays and supporting hardware. Exceptions, including J-hooks, will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and approved by the COR in writing.

146 8.1.22 8.4.22 We intend to use EMT for any Data or Fiber conduits shown on plans in buildings

All conduit types are included in specs because there are locations you would need rigid/EMT/flex, etc. We assume that EMT or flex will be used in all locations permissible by the NEC which would include conduit in walls, above accessible ceilings, etc. If there are locations subject to damage or otherwise not allowed by the NEC, the contractor would be required to provide a code-compliant installation such as intermediate or rigid metal conduit.

147 8.1.22 8.4.22 We have to assume each existing data jack has a conduit or flex already installed in wall spaces or other inaccessible space.

See item 1 above. To assist with unforeseen site conditions regarding conduit, TJ-001 item HH shall be amended per the red text, “TO

ALLOW FOR UNCERTAINTIES, CONTRACTOR SHALL INCLUDE

IN THEIR BID AN ADDITIONAL 200 CATEGORY 6A DROPS OF

UP TO 295' HORIZONTAL WITH ALL ASSOCIATED PATCH

CORDS, LABOR AND SUPPORTING RACEWAY AND

HARDWARE. IN ADDITION, INCLUDE (3) 24 STRAND OS2

CABLES OF UP TO 3500' THROUGH EXISTING SITE

DISTRIBUTION FROM DATA CENTER IN CASE OF

OUTBUILDINGS FOUND CONNECTED. INCLUDE ALL LABOR

AND ASSOCIATED HARDWARE, INCLUDING TO 50' OF

CONDUIT IN EACH BUILDING. INCLUDE AN ADDITIONAL 2,000

LINEAR FEET OF 3/4" EMT, 1,500 linear feet of 3/4” flex, and 1,000 linear feet of cable tray FOR CABLING THAT MAY REQUIRE RE-

ROUTING OR OTHER WORK, IN ADDITION TO THE RACEWAY”.

1478 8.1.22 8.4.22 The specification copied below is difficult to interpret for all Generator bidders:

1. Point C1 call it Standby

2. Point C3 calls for continuous

3. Those two points are in direct conflict with each other

4. Continuous duty would increase the size of the generator to 850 kw for one supplier

5. 850 kw generator would create too much heat for the indoor space?

6. 850kw generator would not physically fit in the space?

7. 850 kw generator would be too noisy for the space?

The generator is not continuous duty, since this is not prime power. The specification from the VA TIL uses the word “continuous” which may cause confusion with duty cycle. The GC/Sub shall provide generator size as specified in the design.

8. Would there be enough return air into the room for that oversized generator?

9. Has the exhaust been designed for mechanical to bid?

10. Has the intake been designed for mechanical to bid?

11. Has the fuel source been considered for adequate pump size for the larger generator?

149 Note 3 on Sheet EK103 calls for N+1 configuration on UPS but specification does not require a backup UPS for each of the two shown and the one line does not show power to two addition UPS units. Essentially that note is asking us to bid

(4) UPS units where two are shown, and the drawing does not provide breakers in Gear or conduit and wire to feed the two extra UPS units. We will not be bidding (4) UPS units unless clarification is provided.

There are only 2 UPS