Responses to Tech Questions - Boise Minor.pdf

Responses to Technical Questions

Boise Minor Design - Renovate/Expand Primary Care 531-324

Question 1:

For the referenced project, you listed the 541310 -Architecture Services NAICS code. In reviewing the scope, it appears that while Architectural services will be needed, the professional design services will require significantly more engineering support under NAICS Code 541330-Engineering Services. We have delivered a substantial number of projects that are similar in size and scope and the engineering disciplines required are Electrical (including RCDD -low voltage-telecommunications), Mechanical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Civil, Structural and Environmental. As a multi-disciplined Engineering and Architecture SDVOSB our ability to self-perform engineering and architecture services enables us to deliver a project that encompasses complete coordination and communication during pre-design, design development, and construction phase services with minimum subcontractor support. We also provide cost estimating in house which allows us to execute a full QAQC review throughout.

Additionally, while these NAICS codes seem similar, the small business size standard for 541310-Archtecture Services is $12.5M while the small business size standard for 541330- Engineering Services is $25.5M. By listing the NAICS code of 541330-engineering services, there will be more competition and therefore a better value to the government.

We appreciate your support in changing the NAICS Code.

VA Response:

The VA has carefully considered this request and determined that 541310 Architectural Services is the appropriate NAICS code for this procurement. The design project must integrate with an existing building on a historically sensitive campus and stay within the parameters of a complex design program. An Architectural Firm should be the “Lead,” as all early presentations should be handled by an Architectural Firm. Then they should lead a multi-discipline group of consulting engineers to reach our final goal of having fully coordinated construction drawings. This approach would be more efficient than working through an Engineering Firm that is subcontracting an Architectural Firm to do all the early work. All this early work will establish the basis for the project going forward. Therefore, it is our decision that the NAICS code for this procurement will not be changed.

Question 2:

Do you have an anticipated start date for the Boise Renovate/Expand B.88 for Primary Care Design project?

VA Response:

The VA anticipates awarding this project around mid-May of 2023. The project period of performance will begin with notice of award.

Question 3:

We were reviewing the subject solicitation and noticed that we responded to this exact same requirement in 2018 under the VISN20 IDIQ but with a different solicitation number (36C26019Q0016). It looks like the ECC was updated, which is appropriate given the economic conditions, but other than that the solicitations look the same.

We are wondering why this solicitation is being advertised outside of the VISN20 IDIQ. Would it be possible to share with us the rationale behind this?

VA Response:

The current VISN 20 A/E IDIQ is approaching completion and multiple firms within the IDIQ are near the maximum aggregate value, which would restrict the bidding environment for this solicitation. Also, this contract is being managed by Program Contracting Activity Central (PCAC). The VISN 20 A/E IDIQ is not a vehicle that is available to PCAC but is reserved for VISN 20 projects.

Question 4:

We did not see a requirement for Environmental Asbestos, mold and lead, or Industrial Hygienist services. Is there a report available for the area to be renovated? Any remediation required?

VA Response:

Construction of building 88 took place between 1983-1985. There is no known or documented asbestos, lead-based paint, or mold within the building. Therefore, industrial hygienist services are not anticipated.

Question 5:

Is the destructive demolition discussed in #29 of the SOW to be part of the AE fee? Are the repairs to be part of the fee also?

VA Response:

The VA will not require the A/E to perform destructive investigation of building 88 as implied by paragraph #29 within the Statement of Work. Inspections will be limited to non-destructive means. The VA has a complete PDF of building 88’s original construction drawings and will provide this information to the successful A/E to assist with design and details.

Question 6:

Are the site utility locates to be provided by the AE?

VA Response:

The VA will provide all available utility documentation (CAD and/or PDF) to the successful A/E at the beginning of design for their use. It is the sole responsibility of the successful A/E to verify/validate any information received by the VA in the creation of their construction documents under this contract. Since this project is primarily a renovation project, the only site utility impact should be if there are any site utilities within the footprints of the small expansions. Other than that, site utilities should not be impacted.

Question 7:

Is the topographical survey to be provided by the AE?

VA Response:

The VA will provide all available topographical documentation (CAD and/or PDF) to the successful A/E at the beginning of design for their use, to include the original construction drawings of building 88. It is the sole responsibility of the successful A/E to verify/validate any information received by the VA in the creation of their construction documents under this contract.

Question 8:

Due to the fact that the projects is 100% set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, with our firm not falling under that banner; are we able to try and team with a firm that is considered SDVOSB?”

VA Response:

Teaming arrangements are allowed. Please see VAAR clause 852.219-73 VA Notice of Total Set-Aside for Verified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses for the definition of an SDVOSB.