Attachment- 55 Solicitation-RFIs-Tech Responses 36C77624B0007.pdf

ADDITIONAL INFO

QUESTION

CONTRACTOR QUESTION A/E Responses (VA answers in blue) Spec/Plan Section:

1 Can the VA please identify where within the specifications and drawings we can locate the quantity of existing communications cables to be removed as well as the quantity of new Cat 6A cables to be installed as well as what Telecommunications Rooms they originate in?

See Attachment 51 TR Matrix Bonham

2 Is there an RCDD requirement for Division 27? RCDD not required for Installation.

3 I received an email regarding the solicitation for the Bonham

Renovation Project. I wasn’t clear if this was for construction renovation that includes the data cabling (Division27) or just the data cabling.

This is construction renovation that includes data cabling.

4 Also, I did not see a due date? Will the proposal be sent to you?

Please submit your bid as per the solicitation on Sam.Gov. Due Date for Tech questions 1/12, site visit 1/9 8am, Bid due 4/16.-

CS HH

5 Does the project scope include any new Cat 6A cabling to be installed? There are new TR’s/TE’s but no indication of new Cat 6A cabling to support these areas.

All TR's/TE's are being upgraded or moved. All Data cables to be replaced with New CAT6A cabling.

6 I cannot locate in the bid documents where existing outlets are identified and new are to be installed. Various A/E’s provide this information in different ways, either on the floor plans, cable schedules per TR, or overall cables schedules of what is existing and what is to be installed. As I mentioned we are doing many of these, including two projects which Spur Design is the A/E, both projects identify the work area outlets on the actual floor plans.

Spees DB also provides locations and cable quantities on the floor plans. Other A/Es such as Bancroft and Apogee (recently) provide cable schedules developed in Excel and do not identify locations on the floor plans.

After my review of the Bonham bid package, I cannot locate where there is determining information as to how many Cat 6A cables are to be installed and how many are to be demolished under this project.

See Attachment 51 TR Matrix Bonham

7 I received an email regarding the solicitation for the Bonham Renovation Project. I wasn’t clear if this was for construction renovation that includes the data cabling (Division27) or just the data cabling. Also, I did not see a due date? Will the proposal be sent to you?

Please submit your bid as per the solicitation on Sam.Gov.

Due Date for Tech questions 1/12, site visit 1/9 8am, Bid due 4/16. This is construction renovation that includes data cabling.-

CS HH

8 What is the duration that the owner will allow for the AHU to be offline? The specifications indicate the work hours and not the allowable time for service interruptions to the air handlers.

Coordination of shut down will be coordinated with onsite COR

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9 01 35 26 1.7 indicates superintendent or CQC manager can dual role as SSHO. 01 45 00 3.4B indicates the CQC manager can have the duties of superintendent and CQC. Will this project be required to have two persons on the project at all times, such as a Superintendent and a CQC Manager with either person performing the role of SSHO? Are these staff members dedicated to this project while not sharing duties of other prime contracts on the campus?

Superintended can have a shared duty of SSHO. CQC and other QC will be a different person onsite. 01 35 26 1.7 and 01 45 00 3.4B

10 After a crossover for the new data zone is complete, are we to remove all old fiber and copper cables related to that older system from overhead and vertically? Can they be abandoned?

After Installation of new cable (Copper or Fiber) and cutover, Remove old cable in entirety.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

11 An asbestos report was provided with this RFP. The report indicates some locations and quantities of suspected ACM abatement. The ACM abatement contractors are going to quote the listed and shown quantities based on this report only. Can you confirm that any ACM or LBP found in work areas that are not listed in the report as known will be handled as unforeseen conditions and directed for removal only by the VA CO and compensated to the contractor in a mod?

If additional ACM/ LBP is encountered during demo

- notify the VA for next steps. For bidding accuracy and equal bidding, only bid what is listed in the specifications and/ or drawings.

02 82 11

12 Are the room/location wall outlets for data to be brand new gang boxes installed into existing walls? IE existing data outlets be abandoned with a solid coverplate?

Use existing where ever possible. If new, install conduit stubout and back box. If abondoned cover with blank faceplate.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

13 Are there additional safety or environmental requirements in regards to opening ceiling tiles, working in common areas or passage ways? i.e. use of dust containment units

Refer Section 01 35 26 Safety Requirements, Article

1.12 Infection Control for ICRA Level I through III

requirements. VA to confirm.

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14 Are there any as-built drawings for this building to use for pricing and understanding of existing conditions? We understand there is a good amount of old plaster walls behind existing regular drywall or other materials.

Please see RFI for as built, most of as built will be renovations, as the building is old and drawings are not current.

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15 Are there certain manufacturers required on this project due to existing systems and facilies? Yes physical security HVAC, MonitoringIf items or equipment require sole- sourcing, VA to provide waiver document.

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16 As a result of the effect of COVID-19 throughout the U.S., and the resulting Federal, State and local governments’ responses / requirements are there any new work requirements or mandates that will be required by VA on this project?

COVID is ongoing pending on the severity at the time be prepared to adjust. SF-1442

17 Can the contractor use the existing restroom facilities in the work area or adjacent ones nearby?

Refer Section 01 00 00 General Requirements, Article 1.18 Temporary Toilets. No-Contractor Provided

01 00 00

18 Can the existing data wall outlets in gang boxes be used for all new cabling connections? Do these outlets need new faceplates?

Use existing where ever possible. If new, install conduit stubout, backbox, and faceplate. If abondoned cover with blank faceplate.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

19 Can the existing service and/or public elevators be used for construction activities? Are there any restrictions or time constraints?

Refer Section 01 00 00 General Requirements, Article 1.17 Temporary Use of Existing Elevators. Yes/ this is the only means, work will be mostly conducted.

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20 Can you confirm that the contractor is not responsible for existing firewalls that are not built to code nor include the proper fire safing of duct, penetrations, conduit, pipe, etc? Also, this would include the proper rated stenciling lettering above ceilings. This would be considered pre-existing conditions.

Code required separations, rated penetrations, identification and other existing physical/material items found to be deficient are to be documented and brought to the attention of the COR for direction regarding proposed repair or other remedial action.

fire walls

TOTAL RESPONSES: 10 Contractors-TTL of 251 Questions TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND RESPONSE TRACKING SHEET-EHRM Construction Bonham TX-VISN17-36C77624B0007_1

VA # 549-84-21-700 Spur # 2216

21 Can you confirm that the contractor is not responsible for removing dead cabling and/or unknown non-project- related cabling in the ceilings and locations of this project? There will be a number of dead and un-known cabling in this building from over the years.

Contractor is not responsible for removal of non-- project cabling. All cabling that is replaced in project will be removed in entirety by contractor.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

22 Can you confirm that the owner will be contracting directly with a third-party commissioning agent for commissioning the project and that the Contractor is only to include participation/coordination with the Commissioning Agent?

Commissioning not required for IT only HVAC will be commissioned by third party. 01 91 00

23 For planning the preliminary project schedule, can you please provide an anticipated award date? Aproximately July 2nd 2024-CS HH SF-1442

24 Has the facility Operation & Maintenance team reviewed the Contract Documents for operability to avoid change orders?

VA has reviewed documents that are utilized to create the contract-the actual contract will not be created until after bids are received and awardee chosen.-CS HH

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25 Have the existing cable trays been confirmed to allow the weight from all the new cabling quantities? That is, can the existing cable trays withstand all the new weight that will be added with new cabling?

Cable trays have not been confirmed. Please reachout to VA for location, dimensions, and condition of existing cable tray.

Cable Trays

26 How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for owner and A/E review and respond to RFIs?

01 33 23-1.10 VA review period for RFIs = 10 days

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27 How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for owner and A/E submittal review? 01 33 23-1.10

VA review period for Submittals = 15 days

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28 How many site visits do owner consultants have for MEP and systems coordination with GC? The scope is widespread across the building and performed in and around numerous existing building systems that will need coordination. Will the VA have a designate

MEP

representative available on site?

VA will support through coordination of onsite COR

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29 If RFI answers elicit a follow-up question, will an additional RFI submission period be allowed? Timeline to be determined if/ when instances arise. SF-1442

30 Is AISC (American Iron and Steel Certification) required for the small amounts of miscellaneous steel fabrication? Can AISC be waived for small miscellaneous steel items when it is not structural?

AISC can be waived. Any shop fabrications will need to be inspected per the IBC.

31 Is there a requirement for x-ray scanning of concrete floor slabs prior to core drilling for floor-to-floor conduits?

Means and methods of construction. GC is responsible for damage if occurred

03 00 00 or 02 41 00-1.3

32 Is this project tax exempt, and will the CO/COR provide the necessary tax exempt certificates Yes VA can provide tax exempt cert. SF-1442

33 M204 is roof plan where there will be mechanical equipment installed on existing roof. What are the roof manufacturer, roof warranty, and installing company that holds the warranty? We need to contact these companies to coordinate pricing and warranty work with in this proposal.

Request for information regarding the specific facility. We have multiple buildings that have Mech equipment. Request specific facilities because some may have warranties and others won’t.

M204

34 Many VA campuses are beginning to address tuberculosis protocols on VA campus projects. Will this project be required to follow 01 35 26 1.13 for TB required protocols? Will this be a requirement to follow the 90-day screening prior to and before work on the project? That will limit the amount of personnel who can immediately perform work right after the award.

Currently Bonham is not requiring it at this time.

This can change at anytime be prepared to meet the protocol. 01 35 26

35 Optical cabling spec section 27 13 23 2.1G states that multimode Optical fiber backbone cabling for computer room first-level backbone use shall be procured to a specific length required by the design (horizontal and vertical) and must be pre-terminated. Does this section require that one run of fiber from the computer TR room from the server dataroom or another location can only be one continuous un-spliced pre-terminated cable? This could cause problems with pre-terminated ends being pulled from multiple floor levels and winding corridors overhead.

Multimode Fiber Cable for structured cabling system in MCR shall be factory terminated on both ends.

Multimode Fiber Cable to connect MCR to TR shall be factory terminated at MCR end. Field termination splice-on cpnnectors at TR end is acceptabl.

27 13 23

36 Please confirm that the project is to be completed during normal working hours, not nights and weekends.

GC to provide phasing plan and coordinated with onsite COR to be approved as part of submittals SF-1442

37 Since this campus is limited in space, where will the designated laydown area be for storage and staging? This will be coordinated with onsite COR SF-1442

38 There are many areas of overhead ceiling work across the building, rooms, floors, etc. for pathways for fiber and copper cables. The RFP drawings do not show thes kinds of ceilings anticipated, whether theay are acoustical or fixed drywall. Can the owner provided as- built or drawings to help contractor in pricing up the overhead above ceiling work?

GC to provide phasing plan and coordinated with onsite COR to be approved as part of submittals. SF-1442

39 THere are sections of the existing cable tray that are not fully accessible. Also, it is likely there will be sections that are overfilled or will become overfilled. In these cases what alteration will be acceptable to navigate these types of scenarios within current pricing? Can you confirm that in these types of situtations where no solution within current pricing would be considered unknown pre-existing conditions.

Such instances will be evaluated when/ if they arise. Cable Trays

40 Typically the existing overhead ceilings in this building are filled with limited space. This scope of work will install new work into the ceiling space. Can you confirm that the contractor is not required to move, relocate, or modify any existing structures, fire alarm, PACS, nurse call, HVAC duct, med gases, or any system?

Should there be an impact or situation where RFP contract drawings can not be installed under pre-existing conditions, this would be considered pre-existing conditions?

Per General Reflected Ceiling Plan Notes, all fixtures in demolished ceilings are to first be removed and returned to owner, UNO. Refer to each discipline's bid documents for further instruction. Sprinkler system in demolished ceilings to be reconfigured per Fire Protection requirements. Otherwise, Alteration of existing systems to permit installation of new systems to be considered as unforeseen conditions and addressed in accordance with “DIFFERING SITE CONDITIONS” (FAR 52.236-2) and “CHANGES” (FAR 243- 4).

01 00 00 H. Phasing

41 What is the approximate duration between issuing the award and issuing the NTP? Generally it is apx 30 days.-CS-HH SF-1442

42 What is the bid bond perentage (%) required? FAR 28.101-2(b) The contracting officer shall determine the amount of the bid guarantee for insertion in the provision at 52.228-1 (see 28.102-2(a)). The amount shall be adequate to protect the Government from loss should the successful bidder fail to execute further contractual documents and bonds as required. The bid guarantee amount shall be at least 20 percent of the bid price but shall not exceed $3 million. When the penal sum is expressed as a percentage, a maximum dollar limitation may be stated.-CS-HH

RFP Bid Bond

43 When running Cat 6A cable from corridors main runs over to room wall outlets overhead is conduit required? Or can the cable be loose laid and directed to the wall outlet location?

J-hooks are accptable. Fire-rated sleeves are required in fire-rated walls.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

44 When VA escorts are needed for work performed in TR/Data rooms, can the contractor supply and certify an OIT staff technician with training and background investigation if needed to perform this escort duty?

Also, would there be any qualifications needed for this person to be present when work is performed when a VA escort person is unavailable? This will allow OIT contractors to work in multiple locations, floors, and rooms as needed without the VA hiring or providing dedicated staff with concerns of escorting manpower.

The only approved personnel allowed to work in IT closet are CAC issued employees or escorted by CAC employee. Other workers will be badged daily to work in the facility.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

45 When VA escorts are required to perform work in TR/Data rooms, (knowing that there a multiple rooms and floors) will the VA have adequate staff available to support the contractor's scheduled requests for work in multiple areas at the same time? The contractor will work with the COR to minimize these situations, however, there will be a need for work in multiple TR/Data rooms to meet the schedule POP.

GC can provide 2-3 employees to be presented with a CAC card for work inside data center. 01 00 00 H. Phasing

46 Will you provide a copy of the site visit attendance and sign-in sheet in amendment? See Attachment 48 and 49 -CS HH SF-1442

47 Where is the designated contractor area for trash dumspters?

Site plans submittal will be reviewed and comments provided from onsite COR

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48 Where will the contractor, contractor employees, and subcontractors' access to the building be located? Are there several locations or just one location and/or entrance?

Designated parking for contractors will not be provided, unloading and loading of equipment will be identified.

Depending of phasing schedule

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49 Where will the designated contractor job site trailers and laydown staging area be?

Site plans submittal will be reviewed and comments provided by onsite COR

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50 With running backbone overhead fiber, CAT6A, cable trays in existing ceilings, the tile and grid will need to be removed and replaced per the area need. How much replacement grid and/or tile should be added as a per centage in the bid for repair of broken or damaged pieces?

Quantities to be determined in each qualifying contractors pricing as means and methods for installation.

01 00 00 H. Phasing

51 Who is the owner's service provider for the fire alarm system? Can you please provide contract information? Notifier/Onyx contract info will be provide upon award

52 Who is the VA campus/building PACS/Video/ Security system vendor / provider? PACS: IDENTIV velocity Video: AVIGILON IDS: NAPCO 28 00 00

53 Will the contractor be authorized to build a temporary office inside the space in lieu of renting an office trailer for the duration of the project?

Contractor must rent an office Trailer

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54 Will the contractor be required to perform work in TR rooms under VA escort?

See responses to questions #44 & #45.

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55 Will the Government provide the 3-D REVIT Design model in native file format, for the creation of coordination drawings, and use by contractor?

Revit/ CAD files can be coordinated once contract is awarded via official request.

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56 Will the owner accept the software “Out-Build Scheduling Software” for schedule submission and monthly updates?

VA does not use out-build scheduling software. As long as submittal is readable VA will accept.

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57 Will the owner accept the use of Procore Project Management software as the primary submittal and data tracking tool for this project?

Yes, COR will accept Procore, contractor must provide access to main stakeholders

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58 Will the owner be providing the civil site SWPPP and associated permitting fees? SWPPP is not required for this work. SWPPP

59 Will the owner provide the fire watch during the period that the fire suppression and/or fire alarm system is not in service?

System down time to be coordinated with VA Fire Department and Facility maintance. Fire watch requirements shall be coordinated with campus fire department based on outage request. - Rated Eng.

Dom Noel

01 00 00 H. Phasing & 01 35 26

60 Will you confirm there is no work required for adding or altering the existing nurse call system? This includes data runs, system equipment movement, and pathways in current and exciting locations where the EHRM IT data fiber and copper are run.

no altering of nurse call system as part of this scope. 27 00 00

61 Can we get the existing utility site plans? Plans must be coordinated through the onsite COR 62 Can we get the steam tunnel plans? Plans must be coordinated through the onsite COR 63 Do we patch back all trenches in roadways and parking lots with concrete regardless of existing surface?

Pavement replacement shall match existing pavement material and section per keynote 1 on Site and Demolition Plans

64 Can you clarify roadways that cannot be shut down.

Will we be required to split the excavation and install plates to keep roadway open.

Main roadways consists of emergency access to all facility

65 Trenches near engineering show to be fenced off during construction. Does this need to be phased. Yes, phasing must be planned

66 Can we core drill through thick concrete walls in corridors above ceiling? Will X Ray be required? It is advised to scan as to not cause damage to the existing building/ structures. Re: spec 02 41 00

02 41 00

67 Are there going to be any special work hours for any of the areas? Some areas are dictated to be coordinated by the on site COR

68 Will we have to install new breakers after hours? If so, what hours can we replace them?

Submittals have to be approve by onsite COR, Coordinate necessary shut downs with COR.

Will we have to use HEPA carts in any areas?

Refer Section 01 35 26 Safety Requirements, Article

1.12 Infection Control for protocols specific to Level. HEPA

carts will be used in all in patient areas and Level III ICRA

70 Are there any locations where hard barriers are required? If so, Please provide an ICRA.

Reference GI sheets in the bid documents for ICRA barrier requirements.

71 Please provide Clarification - mentioned at site visit, main roads are not allowed to be shut down, drawings shows fenced area all around the trenching areas - in/through main roads.

Refer Section 01 00 00 General Requirements, Article 1.16 Operation and Storage Areas, Paragraph N. VA to confirm.

72 Please clarify - will a tax-exempton certificate be provided? Yes tax exemption certs will be provided

73 1. ET series drawings for CCTV camera. Bid spec documents do not specified what system are currently in place for this project, please answer the following questions:

a.What is the manufacturer of the current video management system?

b.What version/existing is the current video management system operating?

c.Are we expected to support version upgrades as part of this contract?

d.Are there sufficient existing licenses to support the new cameras?

e.Are the cameras to be 2MP pan/tilt/zoom or fixed dome?

f.Is there a current vendor/installer of this system that we can contact?

a. AVIGILON b.Version 7 is the latest version c.Yes.

d. No

e. 2 MP fixed dome or multi-sensor. No PTZ to be used.

f. Installer can be contacted upon award

74 2. ET series drawings for card reader/pin pad. Bid spec documents do not specified what system are currently in place for this project, please answer the following questions:

a.What is the manufacturer of the current access control system?

b.What version/existing software is the access control system operating?

c.Are we expected to support version updates as part of the contract?

d.Are the sufficient licenses to support the new doors?

e.Is there any existing integration between the access control and CCTV systems?

f.Is there a current vendor/installer of this system that we can contact?

a. PACS: IDENTIV velocity

b. Version 8.3.8.4 c. No

d. Yes we have enough licenses

e. Not at this time

f. Installer can be contacted upon award

75 3. Plan E601 Existing SWBD 01MSA-2 shows a NEW 600amp breaker feeding a new 600A ATS-OIT.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of electrical equipment to be confirmed post contract award, and during the submittal process.

76 4.Plan E601 Demo the Existing SWBD E01MSA & replace with new SWBD E01MSA, connecting/reuse existing feeders.

a.Q- What size conductors/conduit & sets are needed?

Switchboard is being replaced in-place and in-kind. Reuse existing feeders as much as possible. As needed, new feeders shall be sized to match existing feeders or as follows, whichever is larger. [From 2000A source (building 1 genset): (5) sets of 3-1/2” C. w/ (4) 600 kcmil] [From 400A source (building 2 genset): (2) sets of 2-1/2” C. w/ (4) #3/0 + (1) #3G]

77 5.Plan E602 Existing CO2DPA shows a NEW 150amp breaker feeding a new 2-OIT-1A Panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this breaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘CO2DPA‘ and new 150A breaker is Square D.

78 6.Plan E602 Existing CO2DPA shows a NEW 60amp breaker feeding a new 2-OIT-1B Panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this breaker?

Manufacturer of new ‘CO2DPA‘ and new 60A breaker is Square D.

79 7.Plan E603 Existing SWBD EM shows a NEW 60amp breaker feeding a new 4 OIT panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘SWBD EM‘ and new 60A breaker is Square D.

80 8.Plan E604 Existing SWBD SH1 shows a NEW 60amp breaker feeding a new 8 OIT panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘SWBD SH1‘ and new 60A breaker is Square D.

81 9.Plan E605 Existing SWBD MDS shows a NEW 60amp breaker feeding a new 12 OIT panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘SWBD MDS‘ and new 60A breaker is Square D.

82 10.Plan E606 Existing SWBD 2HEA2 shows a NEW 50amp breaker feeding a new XFMR 24-OIT-B panel.

a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘SWBD 2HEA2‘ and new 50A breaker is Square D.

83 11.Plan E606 Existing SWBD 2HEA1 shows a NEW 50amp breaker feeding a new XFMR 24-OIT-A panel. a.Q- Need manufacture/model # for this beaker?

Manufacturer of existing ‘SWBD 2HEA1‘ and new 50A breaker is Square D.

84 12.Plan E606 panel 24-OIT-2A & B.

a.Q- Are 24-OIT-2A & B new or existing (one-line shows existing)?

These panelboards listed are new.

85 13.Plan “T” Series “Technology Keynotes - VERIFY OR

INSTALL HORIZONTAL PATHWAYS, BASKET TRAY (12"

W, 4" H) ABOVE DROP CEILINGALONG HALLWAY.

INSTALL J- HOOKS IN AREAS WHERE BASKET TRAY IS

INAPPROPRIATE.

a.Q- Plans do not showing any horizontal tray/J-hooks and/or conduit raceway & it is not feasible to verify (which would be a major endeavor). Are bidders to quote a new tray/J-hook and/or conduit raceway for all new backbone fiber/comm. cabling?

VA did not provide location of existing basket tray, time during design to investigate, or existing condition/fill%. VA requests that bidders quote new trays.

Technology Keynotes 1.

86 14.Plan “GS” Series “LEGEND” PROP. UNDERGROUD COMMUNICATION (duct bank in “blue”).

a.Q- Please show Qty/size & duct bank detail ref.

All duct banks will require (2)-4" conduits. Refer to updated details for duct bank reinforcement. Coord. With telecom plans for additional information

15.Existing Fire Alarm System.

a.Q- Is there a current maintenance vendor/installer of this system that we can contact?

Firetrol Protection Systems (10320 Markison Rd) out of Dallas TX was the fire alarm installing contractor. Current VA maintenance contract unknown to A/E. (Responder FPE - Rated Eng. Dom Noel)

88 16.Existing Nurse Call System.

a.Q- Is there a current maintenance vendor/installer of this system that we can contact?

Nurse call system is not in scope

89 17.Existing Lightning Protection System.

a.Q- Is there a current maintenance vendor/installer of this system that we can contact?

As built can be provided

90 18.Seismic Bracing requirements.

a.Q- Is engineered stamped plans required or can it be installed per noted details on plan?

Per plan and/ or specifications. Submit product according to the specifcation requirements of the equipment needing seismic bracing.

91 19.Is there a location where site asphalt and concrete can be stored/separated? Can this material be removed from the site once per week?

Site plans must be approved by on-site COR

92 20.Will soil testing be performed prior to construction, to determine if any soils are contaminated?

Contractor must follow all laws and regulation in the state of TX and VA.

93 21.Is there a location where spoil dirt can be stored? Contractor must dispose the spoil dirt properly IAW state and VA

94 22.Is there a specific location that will be used as a laydown yard during construction? Laydown yard must be approved by onsite COR

95 23.Can you please confirm how many basements vs first floors are in the buildings for telecom tie-in points? There is one basement at building 1. REF: 1/T-100

96 24.Several pathways for the telecom duct banks appear to conflict with existing trees. Is it permissible to adjust DB pathways to avoid trees if possible?

Bid as shown on the drawings. Any routing adjustments can be discussed post award.

97 25.Will erosion control plans be provided? See Erosion Control Plans on sheets GS015-GS019, also, Attachment 53& 54

98 26.Has there been any boring samples/test made for duct bank pathway/trench to determine subsurface condition? There has not

99 1) Can you provide additional information on the Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and Government Furnished Materials (GFM) that is specific to this scope of work? The RFP and drawings provide limited information of actual GFE and GFM items.

Contractor will be provided keys to access

100 2) Who is the facility’s current telecom O&M service provider that will need to be coordinated with for this project?

AT&T, LUMEN, Windstream, but VA will coordinate all Telecom service changes

101 3) Is the facility’s current telecom O&M service provider responsible for any telecom system level software or hardware costs associated with this project?

AT&T, LUMEN, Windstream, but VA will coordinate all Telecom service changes

102 4) What portions of the underground telecom loop (building to building) shown in drawings T-200, 201 and 202 have sufficient remaining space capacity for installation of the required new fiber?

Underground Telecom loop to be installed by civil contractor.

103 5) In specific reference to the EHRM system itself, are all associated software upgrades or licensing requirements being provided by other vendors and therefore not within this construction RFP’s scope?

The only software that is a requirement for this project is camera licensing-Coordinate with COR/OIT

104 6) In specific reference to the EHRM system itself, will actual IT data software and computing hardware system integration and commissioning be conducted by other vendors and therefore not part of this construction RFP scope of work?

Not part of construction RFP

105 7) Are there any other known construction of upgrade projects during the anticipated period of performance that would impact execution of this construction scope of work?

Multiple project will be on-going through out the duration

106 8) Can a copy of the sign-in sheets for the site visit be provided? See Attachment 48 and 49 -CS HH

107 1.What is the existing Fire Alarm System (manufacturer) onsite?

Notifier NFS2-3030 (Responder FPE - Rated Eng.

Dom Noel)

108 2.What is the existing Security Access Control System (manufacturer) onsite? Is this Security System currently under contract, if so, by whom?

Access Control: Velocity IDS: NAPCO

109 3.What is the existing Security CCTV System (manufacturer) onsite? Avigilon

110 4.Are additional 10% or 15% data drops to be included for V/D?

Minimum of 10% additional length for CAT6A data cabling.

5.Are new V/D drops to be completed before existing ones are removed?

Stage new cabling, coiled in ceiling if needed. Remove and replace old cabling from wall outlet. Terminate, test, and cutover new cable. Remove old cable in entierty.

112 6.Can we use surface-mounted raceways/wire mold for new and existing V/D drops?

As a last resort. Coordinate any surface mount raceway installation and locations with AHJ.

113 7.What is the minimum size conduit for the new V/D drops and existing to be replaced?

Install 3/4" conduit for stub outs . Reuse existing where possible.

8.Can work be done during regular business hours?

Coordinate working hours with VA. Reference Section 01 57 19 Temporary Environmental Controls for noise reduction requirements during working hours. This depends on location-coordinate with COR

01 00 00

115 Please provide additional time for RFI’s on this procurement. With the timing of when this solicitation was released, the holidays, and the timing of the site visit it has not allowed enough time for Contractors (GCs and Subs) to review the documents.

Additional time has been provided.-CS HH

116 Please confirm the superintendent shall not have any shared duties as the CQC, the SSHO, or any other roles on the project. Superintended can have a shared duty of SSHO. CQC and other QC will be a different person onsite.

117 Please confirm the SSHO shall not have any shared duties as a CQC, superintendent, or any other role on the project. Superintended can have a shared duty of SSHO. CQC and other QC will be a different person onsite.

118 Please confirm the QCM shall not have any shared duties as a SSHO, superintendent but may serve as the MEP Coordinator.

Superintended can serve as SSHO, and MEP Coordinator, but QCM cannot share

119 With regards to the Communications Project Manager, can this role be filled by a subcontractor’s staff? Yes.

120 Please confirm if the VA can and will be flexible on the site phasing plan provided in this procurement.

VA will try to accommodate the best as we can without interrupting daily operations

121 Please confirm that the contractor is to supply all materials testing for the project.

Yes, contractor is required to bring testing equipment for IT.

The HVAC will need to be commissioned to make sure it is t d t th t l t b it d 122 Please confirm that all firestopping must be either installed by an

FM global approved contractor, or a UL qualified firestop contractor certified.

Follow installer qualifications per spec section 07 84 00

123 Please confirm that the contractor is to include the services of a third party independent firestopping inspector in their bid.

Follow requirements per spec section 07 84 00- 3.5/B 07 84 00-3.5/ B

124 Please confirm that firestopping installers accredited by a firestopping product manufacturer will not be approved by the VA unless they meet the FM global or UL qualifications referenced in section 07 84 00.

Must meet requirements per spec 07 84 00

125 Please confirm that the VA will provide the contractor with a laydown area for dumpsters, toilets, storage, and trailers. We understand there is not much room onsite however without this area there will be an impact to cost and efficiency.

Contractor will provide proposed laydown to VA will adjust proposed location if need be.

126 Please provide a site plan showing the contractor trailer and laydown area(s). See Attachment 45 uploaded with previous amendments

127 Please confirm that contractor parking will be provided on site. This directly impacts pricing.

Designated parking for contractors will not be provided, unloading and loading of equipment will be identified

128 Please confirm if this project is tax exempt. If so, will the VA provide the documentation to the prime contractor after award?

Yes

129 Please confirm the contractor will be required to submit post award the requested information that the telecommunications contractor shall be a BICSI licensed Contractor with a minimum of five (5) years’ experience installing and servicing systems of similar scope and complexity. The Contractor shall provide four (4) current references from clients with systems of similar scope and complexity which became operational in the past three (3) years.

At least three (3) of the references shall be utilizing the same system components, in a similar configuration as the proposed system. The references must include a current point of contact, company or agency name, address, telephone number, complete system description, date of completion, and approximate cost of the project.

Yes. To be reviewed during the submittal process after contract award

130 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.

Yes.

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

RCDD is not required for Installation of Division 27 cabling or systems.

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

133 Please confirm level 4 finish for all finished gypsum board including patches. Yes. 09 29 00

134 Please confirm painting unless otherwise noted is to be

(3) coats (prime, body, and finish) and will be from "seam to seam" or to a change of materials where walls are patched and refinished. Reference spec 09 91 00 for required coats per finish material

09 91 00

135 Please confirm work in common hallways requires use of the control cube method i.e. cart with plastic covering and sealed connection to work site with hepa vacuum for vacuuming prior to exit.

Refer Section 01 35 26 Safety Requirements, Article

1.12 Infection Control for protocols specific to Level. Critcal Care spaces dictate/ situation based

136 Can the data cables be allowed to be fished in where pathways are not large enough? Need more information to answer this question.

137 Does the VA have extra network equipment (switch gear, routers, UPS's) to keep the network connected during construction and cut over?

Yes

138 Are we required to use plenum rated cabling for all areas? Can we use riser rated cabling in non plenum spaces? Plenum cabling is only required in plenum spaces.

139 Will flexible metal conduit be allowed?

Flexible metal conduit installations shall comply with specification 26 05 33 §3.3.A.4, §3.8, and §3.9.

140 Please confirm, that all existing conduit stubs for data communications are 3/4". Unable to confirm all existing stubs are 3/4"

141 Please confirm existing locations where 1/2" conduits need to be replaced.

unable to confirm existing locations of 1/2" conduits.

142 Please confirm the VA will be working and scheduling with the subsystem vendors on scheduling network outages.

Scheduling will be coordinated with on-site COR and proper personnel will be notified for approval

143 Please provide floor to finish heights and floor to structure heights for all buildings.

Bottom of deck heights provided on RCP drawings for TRs. Coordinate with VA to determine height of structure in other spaces as needed.

144 Is there a current roof warranty for each building? If so, please confirm who has the roofing warranty and provide point of contact.

No

145 Please include roof details as required for the new roof top equipment. No roof details are included in the contract documents.

Refer to keynote 8 on mechanical sheets as well as 8/M-501 for condensing unit mounting rail detail.

146 Is the contractor required to provide the licensing for the new Security Cameras? Or will the VA be providing that?

Contractor to provide any additional license(s) required.

147 Please confirm contractor include a 5% allowance per building for additional data drops beyond what are shown on the drawings.

Typical allowance is 10% per building.

148 Please confirm that this project is a competitive Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside project and that any bonding provided by a contractor must be through a SDVOSB or SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protege partnership under the SBA/VA Mentor- Protégé program in which the partnership has been approved prior to the bid date.

Yes-You would have to go through an SDVOSB. You can always confir with the SBA on questions such as these. This acquisition is for is an SDVOSB set aside. Bids from verified SDVOSB firms are the only ones that will be considered for award. All bonds must be in the name of the offeror and from an approved surety as defined by Treasury Circular 570. Joint ventures in which one of the partners is a large business may be considered for award if and only if one of the joint venture partners is a verified SDVOSB and there is a valid mentor protege agreement between the two partners.-CS-HH

149 Please confirm that a large business not part of an SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé team under the VA Mentor-Protégé program cannot provide a Payment & Performance bond for a SDVOSB.

No the Large Business cannot provide a Payment & Performance Bond. You can always confir with the SBA on questions such as these. This acquisition is for is an SDVOSB set aside. Bids from verified SDVOSB firms are the only ones that will be considered for award. All bonds must be in the name of the offeror and from an approved surety as defined by Treasury Circular 570. Joint ventures in which one of the partners is a large business may be considered for award if and only if one of the joint venture partners is a verified SDVOSB and there is a valid mentor protege agreement between the two partners.-CS-HH

150 Please confirm that a large business not part of an SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé team under the VA Mentor-Protégé program cannot provide a bid guarantee for a SDVOSB.

No the Large Business cannot provide a Bid Guarantee. You can always confir with the SBA on questions such as these.

This acquisition is for is an SDVOSB set aside. Bids from verified SDVOSB firms are the only ones that will be considered for award. All bonds must be in the name of the offeror and from an approved surety as defined by Treasury Circular 570. Joint ventures in which one of the partners is a large business may be considered for award if and only if one of the joint venture partners is a verified SDVOSB and there is a valid mentor protege agreement between the two partners.-CS-

HH

151 Please confirm contractor must provide a dust-tight 1- hour rated temporary construction wall with locking door to isolate the area of work when altering rated walls in the facility.

Yes-Refer Section 01 35 26 Safety Requirements, Article

1.12 Infection Control for protocols specific to Level.

152 Please provide a current soils report for the campus. See Attachment 52 Hydrologic Soil Map. Also, See Attachment 29 GEOTECH Rpt

153 Please define off hours, we assume off hours to be second shift work but need confirmation. 430 is second shift

154 Section 01 00 00 general requirements “alterations includes that the GC will provide a thorough survey of areas in which work is to be done with the COR and VA representative in attendance”.

Please confirm that the VA staff will schedule and have the time to do these surveys without delaying the contractor as these thorough surveys are extremely time-consuming.

Yes

155 Please confirm no commercial photography with AutoCAD integration and cataloging and online hoisting is required on this project.

No

156 Please confirm the pre-determined intervals in which the photographic documentation is to be done. Intervals to be defined within phasing plan

157 Please confirm contractor to provide (3) maxcell 3- pocket fabric innerducts (mxe86383) in each 4" conduit. Coordinate with telecom plans for innerduct requirements

158 Reflected ceiling plans have not been provided for corridor areas, please identify ceiling types in corridors. Majority drop ceilings

159 Please provide construction wall types for all the rooms being cabled. This information is critical for sleeve and potential coring.

New wall partitions noted on drawings. Existing walls were noted in size only, selective demolition was not done as part of this project to determine wall make up

160 Please provide ceiling types in corridors and rooms where being cabled. This information is critical for installation of conduits and pathways of all data cabling.

Majority drop ceilings

161 Please confirm if we are to reuse existing conduits and boxes for the new cable being installed.

Reuse existing conduits and boxes where possible.

If existing conduit and boxes condition is unusable, replace with new.

162 Is the contractor permitted to work in multiple work areas / buildings simultaneously, or must one area be completed before moving onto the next?

Yes

163 Will all work areas be entirely vacated throughout the entire duration of construction, or will work areas be vacated in sequence as the contractor moves to each separate work area?

Coordination for rotation so cable can be pulled

164 Is all asbestos abatement intended to be done on nights and weekends, or only items specifically called out on the drawings?

Only what is called out in the drawing

165 Please confirm, is all work to take place during regular work hours unless noted otherwise?

After work hours unless request by contractor to request during hours and approved by on-site COR

166 Would the VA allow for an administrative NTP, allowing time for procurement of long lead items prior to the start of the period of performance?

NTP shall be issued apx 30 days after contract award. No "administrative" NTP will be issued.-CS-HH

167 Is there a proprietary fire alarm contractor at the facility? If so, please provide their name and point of contact.

Notifier, and Firetrol POC can be provided upon award

168 Is the contractor responsible for performing a utility locate throughout the exterior work area?

Contractor is responsible for obtaining private utility locates

169 Is unsuitable / contaminated soil anticipated to be encountered within the work area? If so, can this be used as backfill?

Such instances will be evaluated when/ if they arise.

170 If contaminated soil is encountered, will this be addressed as a change order to the contract?

Such instances will be evaluated when/ if they arise.

171 1. If available, please provide site utility plans and steam tunnel plans. Re: response to question #62

172 2. Is the contractor to patch back all trenches in roadways and parking lots with concrete regardless of existing surface?

Re: response to question #63

173 3. Please clarify which roadways cannot be shut down. Will the contractor be required to split the excavation and install plates to keep roadway open?

Re: response to question #64

174 4. Trenches near engineering show to be fenced off during construction. Does this need to be phased? Re: response to question #65

175 5. Can we core drill through thick concrete walls in corridors above ceiling? Will X Ray be required? Re: response to question #66

176 6. Will HEPA carts be acceptable for infection control in any corridors or areas with above ceiling work? Re: response to question #69

177 1. Will the VA provide keys to each Telecommunication Room in order to allow the general contractor access to each room without the COTR present? Coordinate with COR after award

178 2. Will the VA require every person (including all general contractor and subcontractor employees) to have a PIV Badge in order to enter and work in a Telecommunication Room?

Yes with PIV they don’t need an escort. If they do not have a PIV they will need to be escorted. Those with a PIV can escort those with a PIV.

179 3. Cutovers of existing data cabling to new CAT 6A cabling will require the general contractor to shut down access to computers and other electronic devices utilized by hospital staff, patients, and others. Will this work be required to occur after normal business hours?

Coordinate with COR after award

180 4. What is the normal business hours for the hospital? Coordinate with COR after award 181 5. Will the VA provide a geotechnical soils report for the site underground work?

Coordinate with COR after award to see if they are capable of providing an existing soils report.

182 6. Will the VA provide a power source for the hook up of a jobsite trailer? Typically part of contractors scope of work for temp power to job site trailers.

183 7. Where, on property, will the VA allow the general contractor to set up a jobsite trailer and laydown yard? Coordinate with COR after award

184 8. Section 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.20, requires the contractor to provide a testing and commissioning plan per Section 23 05 93.

Please confirm that the VA will enforce the requirements of Paragraph 1.20 on this project.

Refer #22 response. VA Confirms-Yes

185 9. Many of the spaces that the general contractor will be working in have government property, such as, desks, computers, file cabinets, employee personal items, etc… Who will be responsible for moving government property prior to the performance of the work?

Coordinate with COR after award

186 10. Will the VA require a cost loaded project schedule for this project? Coordinate with COR after award

187 11. Will the VA permit the use of Procore for the FTP file sharing system, the processing of RFIs, Submittals, and other project related functions?

Reference response to question #57, VA Confirms-Yes

188 12. Will the VA permit the Project Superintendent to act as the Site Safety and Health Officer? Re: response to question #9, VA Confirms-Yes

189 13. Will the VA require a second person onsite full time to act as the Quality Control Manager? Re: response to question #9, VA Confirms-Yes

190 14. Section 01 35 26, Paragraph 1.12 states that this project will be Class III for the primary scope area but may vary elsewhere. Please provide an Infection Control Assessment for this project?

Contractor is to coordinate this with the VA Safety Officer.

191 15. In what areas of the hospital, if any, will the VA require work to be performed from a HEPA Cart? Re: response to question #69, this will be depended on the

ICRA level and the requirments.All based on the means and methods

192 16. Will the VA provide the HEPA Carts? No 193 17. Will the VA require Construction Quality Control

Management per Section 01 45 00 on this project? Re: response to question #9, VA Confirms-Yes

194 18. Will the VA require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for the exterior duct bank installation work?

SWPPP is not required for this work.

195 19. Will the VA require the general contractor to secure a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Permit from the local government agency?

Yes

196 20. This project will involve core drilling for cable pathways and raceways.