Att 23-S05-Vendor Questions and RFIs Rspns Final.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 116 KB Posted
- Solicitation number
- 36C77624R0084
About this file
This is a Questions and Answers document containing 260 questions from 9 contractors related to a VA Electronic Health Record Modernization (EHRM) construction project at the VA Medical Center in Amarillo, TX. The Q&A covers technical specifications, requirements, and clarifications for upgrading telecommunications infrastructure across multiple buildings including the construction of a new Main Computer Room.
Key clarifications include: proposals are due February 18, 2025 at 1pm EST; a Project Labor Agreement will be required if estimates exceed $35M; contractors must provide new licenses for all new cameras/access control equipment; night/weekend work will be required for network cutovers; a 10% cable allowance is required; existing analog phone systems will remain; redundant fiber pathways are needed; and X-ray scanning is required before concrete core drilling. The Q&A also confirms that all fiber must be continuous home runs, cable tray (not J-hooks) must be used, and contractors are responsible for relocating furniture to access data ports. Technical details about camera systems (Genetec), access control (AMAG), fire alarms, and cabling specifications are provided throughout the document.
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# of RFIs-Questions
| TOTAL RESPONSES: 9 Contractors-TTL of 260 Questions | Drawings/Attachments | |||
| TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND RESPONSE TRACKING SHEET-EHRM Construction Amarillo TX-VISN17-36C77624R0084 | ||||
| Q # | CONTRACTOR QUESTION | A/E Responses | COR/CO&CS Responses | |
| 1 | Can you confirm if this project will have precast concrete on it? | Confirmed. Pre-cast is required for the steam tunnel. Contractor shall provide a delegated design. | ||
| 2 | I have downloaded the ICRA documentation. Is there a set of corresponding drawings with barrier, ingress/egress control access, and negative pressure requirements? | See Sheet xxG-011 and Specification 01 35 26. | ||
| 3 | RE: video surveillance and access control portion of this project, I notice that you don't have a BDA for ERCES (typically found in Div 27). Once the walls are up, we can test to make sure you won't need this. Testing is $3,500 but we will deduct that amount from any cost for the possible BDA installation (again, if needed). |
Let me know if this is something you think you'll need. We've worked with countless AHJ and Fire Marshals so we know what they'll be testing to satisfy IFC 510.
| Our company is currently working with other construction companies at several DFW hospital locations. Let me know if you need references. | Bi-Directional Amplifiers for Emergency Radio Communication Enhancement System are not included in the Scope of Work. | ||
| 4 | On every building Telecom Drawing, such as 54T-602 (any and all buildings xxT-602) Key Note 11 calls for the contractor to provide QTY 10 new CAT6A cables from Building 8-6 to Buildings 4 (approx. 500’) and to Building 7 approx. 200’. |
Structured Cabling CAT6A distance limitations on the Permanent Link is 295 feet, and the Channel is 328 feet. Building 7 is within the limits, and Standards. Building 4 is not. There is no MFR that makes a CAT6A cable that is an extended reach/range.
Only CAT6 performance for the extended reach/range is currently available.
This extended reach cable is Cat 6 not CAT6A so I want to be clear on that the throughput is 1G/bit at 200M.
| Is this diminished level of thruput and or bandwidth acceptable to the VA for the cross connection of the existing TR’s to the new TR’s? | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings with fiber riser diagrams. The Key Note was incorrectly numbered on xxT-601. Key Note 10 applies to temporary fiber routes. Two (2) sets of 24F OS2 Fiber Optic Cable shall be provided. Key Note 11 is applicable for TRs that are moving within the same building, i.e. local intrabuilding connections from existing TRs to new TRs. | Update T-601 fiber risers, include for all Buildings. | ||
| 5 | The site visit for the Amarillo EHRM project is scheduled for Friday, 1/10/25. Texas is expecting winter weather and freezing rain beginning tomorrow, 1/9/25 and will make traveling dangerous. The Texas Panhandle has notoriously harsh winter conditions. |
I would like to attend the site visit but will need to drive 5 hours from the Waco area to get there. I had to make the same trip about two years ago for an Amarillo site visit, but had to turn around about 4 hours in because road conditions were getting too dangerous.
| Can the site visit scheduled for 1/10 be postponed until the weather is better next week? Or can an additional site visit be scheduled next week? | Amendment posted to add another site visit 1/17. | ||||
| 6 | Will the period of performance be modified due to the large number of long lead time products listed in this project? Many of the electrical items have a 12 to 18 month lead time. | Transformers are the only long lead item we are seeing right now and we have been able to find them and customize them as required for each project to keep them within the normal lead time range. | Items with long lead times need to be submitted as early as possible after notice to proceed; example transformers. | ||
| 7 | On drawing 01M-101 has 4ea 1" CD lines running from new structure to mechanical room and there is no available space to run these lines in the ceiling. Do you have an alternate route? | Routing shown on the drawings is schematic in nature. For all systems, contractor shall field validate and coordinate an acceptable route. Coordination Drawings shall be submitted in accordance with the Specifications. | |||
| 8 | On drawing 01T-101 has a Cable Tray running from new structure to Building 28 and there is no available space to run a Cable tray in the ceiling. Do you have an alternate route? | Routing shown on the drawings is schematic in nature. For all systems, contractor shall field validate and coordinate an acceptable route. Coordination Drawings shall be submitted in accordance with the Specifications. | |||
| 9 | Specification for this project is missing from the RFP please provide all specifications. | Specifications are posted with the RFP. | |||
| 10 | The RFI due date for the above referenced project is scheduled for 1/20/2025 which is a federal holiday (MLK Jr. Day) | ||||
| We would like to request that the RFI due date be extended to a future date and time. | RFI due date extended to 1/21 1pm due to 1/20 being a holiday. See Amendment 0004 | ||||
| 11 | Fire Alarm: | ||||
| • | On FX401 plans for new TRs, keyed note 3 it states that a new fire alarm Horn/strobe is to be installed. Currently the VA uses speakers on the ceiling and strobes on the wall. Is a combo ceiling speaker strobe required instead of a horn/strobe to match existing system? | ||||
| • | Currently Building 8 has a fire alarm that is tied into the fire alarm panel in Building 7. Page 08FX101 shows a new fire alarm panel. Will building 6 receive a new fire alarm panel or will it reconnect to building 7? If there is a new fire alarm panel being installed, how will it tie into the existing Noti-fire-net fiber fire alarm network that is installed to monitor fire alarms? | ||||
| • | On 08FX101, note 2 calls for Horn/strobes. The current fire alarm system is speaker/strobes. Does the new system need to match existing system? | ||||
| • | Will the new notification devices and pull stations tie to the new fire suppression system or to the new fire alarm panel in building 6? | ||||
| • | Is the new fire alarm panel just monitoring the fire pump and clean agent suppression system, or will it need to provide coverage throughout building 6? | New Fire Alarm devices shall integrate with the existing system, Speaker/Strobe shall be used. A new, complete building Fire Alarm System shall be provided for the new MCR Building 08-06. The new FACP will provide comprehensive coverage for all devices in the new Building. | |||
| 12 | Telcom: | ||||
| • | Is fiber throughout the complex to be OS2 single-mode as per site plans or is OS2 and OM4 as per plans? If it is both how many strands are required for the OM4 fiber? | ||||
| • | O1T-001 data legend references 3 and 4 port WAOs are to be reduced to 2 ports, while general notes 33 states a minimum of 4 CAT6a using gray, blue, and white cables. Are all the drops to be reduced? If only specific drops are being reduced which ones are to be reduced? | ||||
| • | Is there to be any phone drops that are analog that need to remain or be replaced? | ||||
| • | 29T-100A note 16 calls for (5) 4” conduits to be ran to the TR above, but there isn’t a TR above. Are those conduits to run to the new TR, to cut down on the length of runs for the data in the basement? | ||||
| • | Will there be after hours/weekend work for the cutover of the data? | ||||
| • | Are network switches to be reused or will new ones be provided to expedite the cutover? | ||||
| • | Who is responsible for moving the desks and furniture to access existing data ports as part of the cutover? | ||||
| • | The equipment list on T-601 references using yellow, ivory, and gray jacks, but spec 27 11 00 2.1 products states data jacks shall be black for all new CAT6A. Is the standard in the specs the one to be followed? | ||||
| • | On T-001 the legend calls for the WAPs to be green CAT6A, but specs 27 11 00 2.1 products states data wire is to be blue. Which standard is to be followed, specs or legend? | ||||
| • | On T-001 the legend calls for 1 CAT6A to be pulled for cameras. Are the camera suppliers to run the CAT6A or is it the responsibility of DIV 27 to pull the data wire for the cameras? | ||||
| • | On page T-602 of the plans note 11 mentions pulling 10 CAT6A from building 8/6 to building 4, but that length would exceed the 328 ft maximum. Is it acceptable for those wires to be longer than 328 ft? | ||||
| • | On page 07T-101, D4 demo shows items on walls to be demoed. In the room is a power supply for the fire alarm. Is that power supply to remain or is it to be relocated? If it’s being relocated, where is it to be relocated to? | ||||
| • | On page 07T-101, there is a box for panic for panic buttons in the building. Is that to be demoed as well as all field devices fed from it? | All new fiber shall be Outside Plant OS2 fiber, redundant homeruns from the new MCR to each TR. All locations with 3 or 4 existing ports shall be reduced to 2, Contractor shall verify the reduction at location with the Owner. If the Owner directs the contractor to retain a 3 or 4 port location, the 10% allowance shall be leveraged. All existing analog phone cables and head-end equipment shall remain. Conduit shall be provided as indicated to serve provide a pathway from the basement to the new TR tower above. All cutovers and cable installation shall occur afterhours. A maximum of 10 temporary swing switches will be provided by VA OIT to facilitate cut-overs. Contractor is responsible for relocating and replacing existing furnishings. Follow specifications for cable and jack color scheme. Div 27 contractor shall pull cable for cameras. Key Note 11 is applicable for TRs that are moving within the same building, i.e. local intrabuilding connections from existing TRs to new TRs. All TR locations that move shall receive 10 additional cross-connection Cat 6A cables. | |||
| 13 | On Drawing 04T-602 Building 4, it is shown to have a good number of the new Fiber optic Backbone cables going to the existing switch room 1021A and stopping within this switch room. |
(see drawing snip 13A to the right)
| See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings with updated fiber riser diagrams. Fiber optic cables from the existing switch room to the new MCR act as an "umbilical" cord to establish connection with the new MCR and to eliminate any network downtime. | 13A | Update T-601 fiber risers, include for all Buildings. | |
| 14 | On Drawing 04T-101the fiber pathway notes only speak to closet/TR 1099 on the first floor and NO FIBER is reflected on said drawing for switch room 1021A. |
Note 10 calls for 2 sets of 24F OS 2, as 3 sets are shown, what purpose is the 3rd?
Notes 2 and 3 are service provider fiber Note 9 is existing fiber to remain (see drawing snip 14A to the right) To what purpose is the fiber lines shown on 04T-602 going to switch room 1021A?
Is there a missing drawing(s) for switch room 1021A? There are no TR Racks or panels shown in this switch room, nor any other location within the switch room 1021A to where exactly this fiber will land, cross connect, or terminate.
| Please delineate what is the purpose of this fiber (2 sets in note 10) and the 3rd set in the diagram above, (no lines for fiber shown) and where does it connect/terminate within the room? | This fiber provides an extension of existing network and service provider WAN fiber to the new MCR to ensure no downtime while services are relocated to the new building. | 14A | ||||
| 15 | Are there any Asbestos reports for the following buildings or does the contractor need to include surveys for the demolition areas? Bldg's 8,9,10,25,26,29,34,35,44,45,46,48,49,53, and 54 | ACM reports that are available have been provided. | ||||
| 16 | In one area on the drawings AMAG is mentioned as the existing access control system and on other documents Software House is specified as the access control system. Do we need to match the existing AMAG M4000 system? | Contractor shall match the existing system. | ||||
| 17 | Due to the complexity and challenges presented in this RFP, we ask for a 4-week extension to the bid date in order to accurately and competitively provide a proposal. | An amendment for 2 weeks will be provided due to the number of RFIs. Proposal Due Date 2/18/25 @1pm EST. | ||||
| 18 | There are pad mount transformers that are either being replaced or added, has the local electrical utility been contacted in order to verify the increase power capacity required to support this project? | The design has been coordinated with available capacity. | ||||
| 19 | Are there any Division 01 specifications applicable or that can be provided for review? | Specifications are posted with the RFP. | ||||
| 20 | Are equal/alternate manufacturers allowable against the basis of design manufacturers as long as all the BAA requirements are met or exceeded? | Yes. | ||||
| 21 | There are two deducts listed on the drawings but are contradictory into which one is which in various building drawings sets, please provide clarification on these deducts. | Deductive Alternates are not included on this project. See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | updated drawings and specs addendum dated 1/27/24 with narrative provided in this amendment. See attachments: | Remove Deduct 1 and 2 | ||
| 22 | In reference to the previously stated deducts, the pricing sheet included in this RFP only allows input for a lump sum amount. Are these deducts required to be presented and if so is there an updated pricing sheet in order to input these values? | Deductive Alternates are not included on this project. See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | updated drawings and specs addendum dated 1/27/24 with narrative provided in this amendment. See attachments: | Remove Deduct 1 and 2 | ||
| 23 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES100 – General Notes – please provide specification section 260591 & 260913 as noted for reference in order to incorporate in our bid. | Specification reference corrected. See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Update ES100 | |||
| 24 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES100 – Keyed Note #5 – not present, please indicate. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Add KN5 to ES100 | |||
| 25 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES100 – Keyed Note #6 – not present, please indicate. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Add KN6 to ES100 | |||
| 26 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES401 – basis of design manufacturer for the integrated power assembly requests at minimum 4-6 weeks to provide a quote once a finalized design is presented. This would require upfront cost to be incurred prior to award in order to provide the basis of design manufacturer what is needed in order to provide a quote. | An amendment for 2 weeks will be provided due to the number of RFIs. Proposal Due Date 2/18/25 @1pm EST. No funding provided. | ||||
| 27 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES401 – more information is required by the basis of design manufacturer in order to accurately and competitively price the integrated power assembly in lieu of the ‘delegated-design’ requirements as noted including specification sections 260591, 260913, a defined intent delineating conduit routes, sizes, load, etc. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Update ES401 | |||
| 28 | IFC/Site plan sheet ES401 – please provide an outlined scope of engineering work and specification requirements needed for the delegated design including drawing detail requirements, layout requirements, load requirements, etc. in order to gain clarity on what the government is requesting for approval. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Update , specs, etc. | |||
| 29 | Clarification is required for paragraph 2.5 (Fuel System). The requirement appears to be for 96 hour (~4200 gal) of fuel, which will in turn be connected to main UST of unknown size and location. Detail needs to be provided on tank sizes, locations, UL standard required, and distances – as well as elevation differences in tank levels. I am assuming that the intent is not to put 4,200 gallons of fuel in the room with the generator set. Since the specification also calls for a sound enclosure, which is not required for the indoor unit, we assume the tank requirement is also incorrect as specified. Main tanks and piping, pump and motors, controls, etc are typically part of the mechanical specs, and not a part of the generator requirements which also need drawings for in order to reference. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings indicating the required 6000 gal external fuel tank. | Civil to show ST | |||
| 30 | BLDG7-07E-100/07E-401 – keyed note #4/#7 – confirm location and further detail on if a 45kW UPS is required or the 5kW rackmount UPS in Room 208 is needed. | A 5 kW rackmount UPS is required in Building 07 Room #208. KN4/07E-100 is not applicable and has been removed. | Remove KN4 on 07E-100 | |||
| 31 | XFMR-7-1 on plans for B07 and T-07 on plans for B08 are assumed to be the same transformer and are only included once. This transformer is included in group B07. It is rated at 300kA. 250kA is not an available rating. | Concur. | Update 08E-601 | |||
| 32 | MSB-B08 will be quoted per one-line in distribution panelboard construction. Schedule is disregarded as it implies a main/tie/main switchboard which does not match one-line. | Concur, follow the Specifications and Single Line Diagram. | ||||
| 33 | MV selector switch SS-6-1 is shown in the interior of building 6. No details on this switch are provided on plans, but generally MV selector switches located exterior of the building. Please clarify. | See attached/Addendum 1updated specifications and drawings. | ||||
| 34 | 08E-601 – XFMR8-1 shows the 2-4” primary conduits on the secondary side of the transformer. Please clarify. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | Update 08E-601 | |||
| 35 | 08E-601 – SWBD MSB shows a 1000A MCB but has a 1200A feed, shouldn’t this be a 1200A MCB switchboard. | Confirmed, 1200A shall be provided. See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | ||||
| 36 | 20. 08E-601 – NPB-1-1 -breaker feeding EQ-1 is shown as a 225A but panel itself is rated at 100A. Please clarify feeder and/or panel rating. | See attached/Addendum 1 & Addendum 2 updated specifications and drawings. | Update 08E-601 | |||
| 37 | 08E-601 – MDP-B08 is shown on electrical floorplan on BLDG6 but panel schedule is absent along with missing from the one-line. Please clarify if this panel is needed, a panel schedule, and include on one-line if needed. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. Reference has been removed. | Update B06_08 plans. E-402 | |||
| 38 | Requesting a ground riser diagram for building 6. | See attached/Addendum 1 updated specifications and drawings. | ||||
| 39 | Please advise on which or if all new/or added buildings or towers require lighting protections systems. | Lightning protection systems shall be provided for all new towers and buildings. | ||||
| 40 | 04E-601 shows two new electrical panels go to room #1099, we do not have electrical sheets that show room #1099 for these panel locations with no first-floor sheet. | See drawing 04E-101. | Confirm this sheet was posted with the solicitation. | |||
| 41 | 07E-601 – please clarify keyed note #6 for MDP-25 to generator and if another note was to be utilized instead. | Please use KN5, "PROVIDE NEW FEED BASED ON LOAD INDICATED. REFER TO |
SHEET E-701 FOR SIZING."
42 07E-601 – please clarify keyed note #6 for B25-01 to PL-7L-1 and if another note was to be utilized instead. Please use KN5, "PROVIDE NEW FEED BASED ON LOAD INDICATED. REFER TO
SHEET E-701 FOR SIZING."
43 07E-601 – please clarify keyed note #6 for PL-7L-1 to 7H1 and if another note was to be utilized instead. Please use KN5, "PROVIDE NEW FEED BASED ON LOAD INDICATED. REFER TO
SHEET E-701 FOR SIZING."
44 07E-601 – please clarify keyed note #6 for 7-EP-TR to 200A NF Disconnect and if another note was to be utilized instead. Please use KN5, "PROVIDE NEW FEED BASED ON LOAD INDICATED. REFER TO
SHEET E-701 FOR SIZING."
| 45 | Will alternate pathways be consider in lieu of cable tray in above ceiling tile locations that do not contain space for cable tray or have open ceiling locations where routing of cable tray may not physically or aesthetically be possible? | Routing shown on the drawings is schematic in nature. For all systems, contractor shall field validate and coordinate an acceptable route. Coordination Drawings shall be submitted in accordance with the Specifications. | ||||
| 46 | Does each fiber run need to be continuous from the starting point bldg. 6 to the final bldgs.? Example from bldg. 6 to bldg. 45. | Yes, all fiber shall be continuous home runs. | ||||
| 47 | Do you require or recommend Maxcell in the conduits for the fiber runs? If so, is there an amount of spares tubes for future? | See Specifications for technical requirements. Products adhering to the specifications are acceptable. | ||||
| 48 | In the spec book it refers to jetted fiber. Is that the required application for the fiber backbone or is it the loose tub gel filled cable? | Please reference Specification 27 13 23 for Fiber Optic Cable requirements. | ||||
| 49 | Is there a required amount of fiber that is needed to be left as slack in each man hole? | Contractor shall provide slack in accordance with VA, ISTS and BICSI standards. 15 feet of slack. | ||||
| 50 | Do you have a recommended or suggested brand like OCC, AFL or Corning for the fiber backbone? | Follow Specification requirements. | ||||
| 51 | Are the fiber connectors ultra or angled polished? | See Specifications for technical requirements. Products adhering to the specifications are acceptable. | ||||
| 52 | For the sub-metering of the new load does the engineer have a selection structure built or estimated on how are they looking to sub meter the load? | Sub-metering is required at all panel boards, UPS and PDU. | ||||
| 53 | Are surge counters on the feeder panelboard stage required on all panelboards? | Yes. | ||||
| 54 | Can you confirm the load/run time requirements for the UPS Units? | For rack mounted UPS units, see Specification 27 11 26 Part 2.2. | ||||
| 55 | On page T-601 of the plans in the equipment list a FF1N-113C-E42-B (F-series Teraframe cabinet system) is listed. That product has been discontinued. What cabinet system is required as a replacement? | |||||
| 2. Is the teraframe cabinet required in building 6/8’s MCR as the MDA, HDA, and for the JSA? | Follow Specification requirements for acceptable products. See Specification 27 11 16. | |||||
| 56 | Please provide a copy of the sign in sheet from both of the prebid site visits. | Amendment posted 1/21/25. | ||||
| 57 | Please confirm that the VA will provide the use of power and water to the contractor at no cost for this project. | See Specification 01 00 00 Part 1.19 | ||||
| 58 | Will the following LEED requirements be enforced for this project? PRODUCTS – GENERAL B. Sustainable Construction Requirements: Steel Recycled Content: 30 percent total recycled content, minimum. Stainless Steel Recycled Content: 70 percent total recycled content, minimum. | Yes. | ||||
| 59 | This project is Design Bid Build and not a design build project. Please confirm that the VA will provide engineering for any blast rated construction assemblies and all related components. | Contractor shall provide a delegated design submittal. See attached specs. | ||||
| 60 | Please provide a blast design for the affected areas of this project. A spec for blast windows and doors has been provided, however the plans do not show any blast rated construction details. | Contractor shall provide a delegated design submittal. See attached specs. | ||||
| 61 | Please provide updated drawings that show blast walls construction and all related components. | Contractor shall provide a delegated design submittal. See attached specs. | ||||
| 62 | The VA has not provided a blast design for 05 40 00 cold formed framing. A blast design and plans will be required to be able provide bid pricing for this solicitation. | Contractor shall provide a delegated design submittal. See attached specs. | ||||
| 63 | Please provide blast requirements, plans and specifications for 05 12 00 structural steel framing. | Contractor shall provide a delegated design submittal. See attached specs. | ||||
| 64 | Can the Contractor provide as-built drawings in an ADOBE PDF Document or will as-built drawings be required to be provided in AutoCAD. | As-built drawings shall be provided in both PDF and AutoCAD format. | ||||
| 65 | If AutoCAD as -builts are required to be provided by the contractor, Will the VA provide CAD or REVIT files? | Yes, CAD and BIM files will be provided under license to the successful bidder. | ||||
| 66 | The Solicitation Documents broadly refer to “criteria provided in the solicitation”. Please identify the specific criteria to be evaluated by the Government to determine the best value. | For evaluation criteria please refer to the entire solictation- with emphasis starting on pgs 14-19 (C Technical Proposal Requirements, Factors criteria, D Price Proposal Requirements, E Evaluation Methodology, along with the rating method charts provided on pg 18 & 19. | ||||
| 67 | For each criterion identified, please state the weight given to the specific criterion as it relates to the determination of best value. | |||||
| 68 | Please confirm that the VA will require an SSHO be present for each shift if multiple shifts are worked in a day. | Confirmed. | ||||
| 69 | Please confirm that the VA will enforce the requirement for Starc Wall Systems (or equivalent) to be used when the ILSM calls for a Class III or IV barrier. | Confirmed. | ||||
| 70 | Please provide a copy of the FGI Guidelines for Design and Construction of Healthcare Facilities referred to in the project specifications. | All ICRA information has been provided in this amendment. FGI guidelines are basis for the VA’s Infection controls measures and access to the full guideline is not required. The information needed by the contractor is contained on the ICRA sheets G-011 & G-012, and in the Specifications at 01 00 00.C and 01 00 00.D – Appendix C and D. (refer to VA's updated standards from 2024 in Appendix C and D in the addendum) | replace VHA ICRA and PCRA (01 00 00 appendix C & D) with new 2024 versions via addendum | |||
| 71 | Is the VA going to require implementation and compliance with the Section 01 81 13 (Sustainable Construction Requirements) of the Project Specifications? | Yes. | ||||
| 72 | Is the VA intending for the general contractor to submit an independent site survey of the entire VA campus in accordance with Section 02 21 13 of the Project Specifications? | Yes. | ||||
| 73 | In Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B) it states it states “this will include the replacement of wall jacks (End-User Device) EUDs to become CAT 6A compliant”. Does the VA intend for all wall jacks to be replaced, including existing wall jacks that will not receive new CAT 6A cable? | All locations that receive new Cat 6A cabling shall also receive new jacks. | ||||
| 74 | Will the VA be installing patch cables from the end user device to the wall jack? | No, contractor will be providing AND installing all patch cables. | ||||
| 75 | Is the general contractor required to provide CAT 6A patch cables to the VA for each wall jack that receives new CAT 6A cable per this contract? | Yes, contractor shall provide new Cat 6A patch cables at each end, i.e. at the End User Device and in the TR. All cabling including patching shall be provided by the contractor. | ||||
| 76 | Will the VA be installing patch cables within each Telecommunication Room? | Contractor shall install all patch cables at each End User Device and in each TR. | ||||
| 77 | In Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B), it states that the contractor must label “at regular 4 FT intervals along the entire cable length”. What type of label is the VA looking for the contractor to apply every four feet? | Labeling shall be in accordance with Sheet xxT-503 and Specification 27 05 53. | ||||
| 78 | Other than not disturbing the operation of the Cat 3analog or phone cable, devices, and terminations, please confirm that the contractor is not responsible for doing anything else with the Cat 3analog or phone cable encountered during the performance of the scope of this contract. | Confirmed, existing analog phone cables and devices shall remain and be protected-in-place. | ||||
| 79 | If the drawings do not identify new control panels for the PAC devices, should the contractor assume a new standalone control panel will be required to support each new PAC device. | Scope includes new power supplies and control panels for all new PACS devices. A complete, fully-functional PACS system shall be provided at each location. | ||||
| 80 | Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B) suggests that the cutover from existing TR Rack/Panels to new TR Racks/Panels will be completed during normal business hours. This will involve take end user devices offline for up to 8 hours at a time to perform the cutover and demo the legacy cable. Will the VA allow end user devices to be taken out of operation during normal business hours in order to perform the cutover process. | Cut-overs and re-cabling shall occur afterhours. | ||||
| 81 | Will the VA require escorts for all work to be performed within a Telecommunication Room? If so, does the VA have a sufficient number of escorts available to allow for the work to be performed and completed by the contract completion date? | VA authorized escorts will be required for work within telecommunications rooms. | ||||
| 82 | At a minimum, VA OIT will need to be present for the cutover of the CAT 6A cable to the new TR Racks and patch panels. Will the VA be responsible for all coordination with VA OIT? Will the VA assure that representatives of VA OIT are present and available throughout the project duration to allow performance and completion of the work by the contract completion date? | Coordination with VA OI&T will be conducted through the COR. | ||||
| 83 | Will the VA allow workers to be in a Telecommunication Room or Server Room without an escort if the individual has passed the VA OIT background check and has a badge? | VA authorized escorts will be required for work within telecommunications rooms. | ||||
| 84 | Please confirm that the VA will enforce the requirement for the general contractor to provide commissioning services pursuant to Section 01 91 00? | Confirmed. | ||||
| 85 | Please confirm that the VA will enforce the requirement for the general contractor to provide 3rd Party inspections, in addition to commissioning, including testing and written reports, for all divisions of the work. These reports and testing should be performed by third-party firms qualified in the work being tested or reported on. | Confirmed. | ||||
| 86 | Please confirm that the VA will enforce the Quality Control requirements in Section 01 45 00, including the Experience Matrix, set forth for third-party inspections. | Confirmed. | ||||
| 87 | Because the work is being performed throughout multiple buildings and areas on campus the level / classification infection control parameters will vary. For bidding purposes, please share the level/classification for each area or building or alternatively provide a baseline assumption that can be applied to all areas. | ICRA Class IV should be assumed for bidding purposes and will be considered for downgrade on a case by case basis by the stations infection prevention staff. | ||||
| 88 | It has been this contractor’s experience that multiple shifts are required to complete similar EHRM projects in a timely manner. Will the VA allow the contractor to work more than one shift during a 24-hour period. | 60% night and off shift work time is to be expected. Per spec section 01 00 00 - 2, work outside of normal hours requires requires prior written approval from the COR. Due to work type and locations after normal working hours work is expected to be required to perform this project work and will be approved on a case by case basis based on the VA's ability to support. | ||||
| 89 | Will the VA require at the time of submittal of the bid, the Pricing Proposal Breakdown referenced in Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(Q). | The breakdown is not required at time of bid, to be submitted, but is requested to be prepared in case the government intends to establish a competitive range as stated in the solicitation. Additional time will not be allotted to prepare a breakdown if it is requested. | ||||
| 90 | According to Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.2(A)(5) it states “[p]rovide Physical Access Control (PACS) for all TR doors (including controllers and power supplies)”. Does this requirement apply to existing TR Room Doors that are not being removed or replaced as part of this project or is it limited to only new TR Room Doors? | This requirement applies to all doors, including new doors AND existing doors being replaced. | ||||
| 91 | The VA will enforce the 30-day load monitoring requirement before undertaking work on an electrical panel? | Yes, this requirement will be enforced. | ||||
| 92 | Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.2(A)(7) states “reconfigure and certify existing wet pipe fire protection system”? Typically, the work performed on the wet pipe fire protection system will involve adjusting or moving a fire sprinkler head in a TR Room. This is relatively minor work that does not involve reconfiguration or certification of the entire existing wet pipe fire protection system. What exactly is intended by the foregoing requirement for the contractor to “reconfigure and certify existing wet pipe fire protection system”? | Wet pipe system that falls under the Scope of Work shall be reconfigured and certified as indicated. | ||||
| 93 | Will coordination drawings be required to be submitted for approval by the VA prior to installing cable tray or other raceways? | Yes, coordination drawing submittals will be required for all locations. | ||||
| 94 | Section 01 00 00, Paragraph 1.5(I) provides that the contractor cannot interrupt service to hospital operations during the performance of the construction. In order to meet this requirement, it may be necessary to perform work (other than shutdowns) at night or during weekends. Will the VA permit work other than the shutdown of utilities to be performed at night or during weekends? | Yes, Night and Weekend work will be required. All network cutovers and cable replacements shall occur afterhours. | ||||
| 95 | Please confirm that existing legacy communication cable that is disconnected when the new CAT 6A cable is installed must be removed from the wall jack all the way back to the TR Room equipment rack. It will not be acceptable to abandon the disconnected cable in place or above the ceiling. | Confirmed, existing cable being replaced shall be removed in its entirety. Abandoned cable is not acceptable. | ||||
| 96 | Will the VA permit the contractor to use the VA’s onsite elevator system for moving equipment and material to/from work areas? | Reference spec section 01 00 00 - 18 part 1.17 Temporary Use of Existing Elevators. | ||||
| 97 | The installation of cable to data drops will inevitably involve work within patient or staff areas. Will the VA be responsible for moving VA equipment or other personal items of patients or staff before the work is performed and return it once work is complete? Will the VA move desks or disassemble/reassemble modular furniture, when necessary, to allow work to be performed under this contract? | Contractor shall perform all relocations. | ||||
| 98 | During this project, the contractor may encounter situations where an existing conduit may not be sized properly to accommodate the total number of CAT 6A cables to be installed at that location. In those instances, will the VA permit surface mounted raceway to be utilized in lieu of opening the wall and replacing the existing conduit with a larger conduit? | Existing in wall drops will remain. WAO with 3 or 4 existing cables are being reduced to 2, typical. | ||||
| 99 | Per Section 00 31 33, please provide a copy of the geotechnical report prepared by Terracon dated November 30, 2020. | See previously attached specs geotechnical report | ||||
| 100 | Is the VA expecting Section 00 41 13 form to be submitted with each bid? If so, if a bidder fails or refuses to submit the Section 00 41 13 form will the bidder’s bid be deemed non-responsive. | This bid form addressed on the specs should be disregarded. Proposals/bids should only be allocated on the Pricing Schedule. | ||||
| 101 | In Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B) it states that the general contractor is responsible to “construct diversified path for WAN”. What exactly is intended by this statement? | See the site drawings for scope related to service provider/WAN fiber pathways. | ||||
| 102 | General note 2 on sheet 01G-100 (typical of all plans) lists a requirement for a 10% cable allowance, however the specifications mention a 15% allowance. Please confirm which is correct. | Provide a 10% allowance per the plans. | ||||
| 103 | Please confirm that the VA is expecting the general contractor to carry a 15% allowance for additional CAT 6A cable? Please also confirm that this 15% allowance limited to the CAT 6A cable only. If that is not the case, identify what other components should be included in the 15% allowance. | Provide a 10% allowance per the plans. Allowance includes all materials and labor to provide a complete Cat 6A circuit, including cable, jacks, faceplates, patch cables. | ||||
| 104 | In Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B) it states “[a]ny conduit used will be marked appropriately with “low-voltage/data” at regular intervals to be visible with minimal effort”. Please identify how frequently the conduit should be marked with the words “low-voltage/data”. What type of tool should be used to mark the conduit. Please also confirm that this requirement only applies to conduit installed through corridors. | See Specifications for technical requirements. Products adhering to the specifications are acceptable. | ||||
| 105 | In Section 01 00 00, Part 1, Paragraph 1.1(B) it states to reuse “existing conduit drops in-wall”. The next sentence says the contractor should not exceed the conduit fill percentage. What is the conduit fill percentage that will be used on this project? | Contractor shall not exceed 40% fill. If fill would be exceeded the nearest/adjacent drop with available capacity should be used. Note: All locations with 3 or 4 existing cables shall be reduced to 2 cables. | ||||
| 106 | If the existing conduit cannot accommodate the number of CAT 6A cable, while maintaining the fill percentage for the conduit, will the VA consider this to be an unforeseen condition entitling the general contractor to a change order. | This will not be considered an unforseen condition. Contractor shall not exceed 40% fill. If fill is exceeded the nearest/adjacent drop with available capacity should be used. Note: All locations with 3 or 4 existing cables shall be reduced to 2 cables. | ||||
| 107 | Will the VA provide the fire extinguishers for the new TR room locations? | Contractor shall provide the Fire Extinguishers and Fire Extingusher Cabinet. | ||||
| 108 | Please provide a specification section for window film as called out on sheet 01A-401 (typical of other plans sheets). | See addendum for Specifications section 08 87 33 Decorative Film. Also see Sheet 01IN101 Finish Legend F-1 for Basis of design material selection. | include 08 87 33 Decorative Film | |||
| 109 | Please provide a specification section for expansion joints as called out on detail E7/01A-407. (typical of other plans sheets). | Expansion Joint covers are specified in section 07 72 00 paragraph 2.5 | ||||
| 110 | Please provide a specification for portland stucco. The specifications only provide a spec for EIFS. | Section 07 24 00 Paragraph 2.2 Direct Exterior Finish Systems covers the System for Synthetic Stucco (which contains portland cement). | ||||
| 111 | Please confirm that for bidding purposes, the contractor can assume the count of CAT6A cables to be demolished is the same as the count of CAT6A cables to be installed as new. | Existing cable count to be removed is identified on the T-700 series sheets. | ||||
| 112 | Floorplans depicting new cable tray have been provided, but they do not show the existing reflected ceiling types. We are unable to determine which areas have hard lid ceilings. Please provide RCP plans for each building and floor where new Cat6A cabling, cable tray and mechanical piping is required. | Reflected Ceiling Plans (RCP) will not be provided. Contractor shall field coordinate routes and submit coordination drawings. It is determined approximately 25% of the affected ceilings are hard lid. Cable tray quantities shown on the T700 series schedules. | ||||
| 113 | Note 1 on sheet 07A-401 says that the contractor is to repair and damage to the existing building building 25. Please describe what type and extent of damage is to be repaired. Please provide photos of the damage that is to be repaired. | See Building 07 plans provided with Bid documents. | Reference keynotes on drawing number 07A-401. | |||
| 114 | Keynote 22 on sheet 07M-402 does not appear to be correctly called out on detail F6. The detail note callouts are shown next to existing ceiling registers and not a roof access location, as described. | Confirmed, KN 21 should be used. Existing ceiling GRD shall remain. | ||||
| 115 | Please confirm that a new condensing unit is NOT required to be installed on the roof as described on sheet 07M-402 note 22. The mechanical plans do not show any new eqp for room 208. | Confirmed, new condensing unit is not required for Building 07. | ||||
| 116 | The plans mention deductive alternates, however the CLIN price schedule does not include deducts. | Deductive Alternates are not included on this project. See attached/updated specifications and drawings. | updated drawings and specs addendum dated 1/27/24 with narrative provided in this amendment. See attachments: | |||
| 117 | Please confirm that pricing for deductive alternates referenced in the plans will not be required. | Deductive Alternates are not included on this project. See attached/updated specifications and drawings. | updated drawings and specs addendum dated 1/27/24 with narrative provided in this amendment. See attachments: | |||
| 118 | Detail F4/07E-601 mentions a generator inside “new building 25 with 12” masonry walls” | Building 25 is existing and shall be renovated. See Architectural drawings included in the Building 07 drawing package. | ||||
| 119 | Please confirm that building 25 is existing, and that a new building is not in scope. | Building 25 is existing and shall be renovated. See Architectural drawings included in the Building 07 drawing package. | ||||
| 120 | Detail F4/07E-601 one line drawing shows new generator GEN-25-09-10 however the architectural and mechanical drawings for building 25 do not show a new generator being installed. Please clarify if a generator is required, and if so, please provide updated architectural and mechanical drawings and requirements for demolition new equipment pads, exhaust piping, fuel piping etc. | A new generator is required. Contractor shall submit a delegated design. | ||||
| 121 | Sheet 07E-100 calls for 4 new 4” raceways to building 25 for electrical feeders. Sheet 07T-101 does not show new telecom raceways. Please confirm that building 25 has existing raceways with sufficient capacity to accommodate the new cable drops shown on Sheet 07T-101. | New raceways shall be provided. | ||||
| 122 | Will innerduct be required for interior fiber cabling? | Yes. | ||||
| 123 | Wil innerduct be required for exterior fiber cabling? | Yes. | ||||
| 124 | Note 2 on sheet 08CD101 requires the contractor to relocate VA conex container. Please confirm that the VA will empty the container prior to relocation. What length is the container? | Connex is currently used by VA OI&T as storage. VA OI&T will remove stored items for connex to be relocated. Coordination and notice of intent to move must be given to VA COR at least two weeks prior to allow for relocation of stored items. | ||||
| 125 | Please confirm that any utility provider fees/contracts will be provided and paid for by the government and will not be the responsibility of the contractor. | Contractor shall be responsible for | ||||
| 126 | Please provide a structural as build drawings for the existing building 8 that is to be demolished. Sheet 08AD101 only shows the existing floorplan. | Building 8 is a modular building, no structural drawings are available. | ||||
| 127 | Please provide structural elevation drawings and bracing details for new B08-06. | Building 8 is a modular building, no structural drawings are available. | ||||
| 128 | Is this project tax-exempt, if so, will a certificate be provided? | Per the solicitation-See: Special Notes regarding FAR 52.229-3: Federal, State and Local Taxes on page 7 & 8 | ||||
| 129 | Is conduit required for grounding conductors running/installed ceiling & risers? | Yes, see detail F3 xxT-501 TBB/BBC/TBC Conductor sizing chart. | ||||
| 130 | Is there a requirement for x-ray scanning of concrete floor slabs prior to core drilling for floor-to-floor sleeves/conduits? | Yes, X-Ray scans shall be performed prior to all concrete slab core drilling. | ||||
| 131 | No response required…this was a continuation of Q 79. | |||||
| 132 | Is there a location where site asphalt and concrete can be stored/separated? Can this material be removed from the site once per week? | Contractor and VA can coordinate a location on site within a properly secure laydown area to facilitate separation of materials for reuse, salvage, recycling, and return. Such areas are to be kept neat and clean and clearly marked in order to avoid contamination or mixing of materials. | ||||
| 133 | How are contaminated soils to be treated? Will the treatment of contaminated soils be considered a modification to the contract? | There are currenlty no known contaminated soils on campus, No testing is required. If soil is contaminated by the project work follow all federal and state regulatory guides for clean up. CO and COR must be notified immediately if soil is contaminated. | ||||
| 134 | Is there an onsite location where spoil dirt can be stored? | No. The contractor is responsible for removing the dirt to an appropriate spoils yard offsite location at contractors expense. | ||||
| 135 | Is there a specific location that will be used as a laydown yard during construction? | Location for construction laydown areas will be coordinated between VA COR and awarded contractor based on available space and needs. | ||||
| 136 | Will erosion control plans be provided? | No. | ||||
| 137 | Will an existing Utility Plan be issued? | Existing utilities are indicated on the plans. Contractor shall also provide a comprehensive underground utility survey and coordinate all new site work. | ||||
| 138 | Will a plan/profile for new duct bank trench profile be issued? | Duct bank profiles will not be provided. Contractor shall provide underground utility survey and proposed coordinate duct bank routes/depths. Contractor shall submit duct bank drawings for approval during shops submittals. | ||||
| 139 | Please provide contact information for the existing civil private survey contractor for this campus. | There is no required existing civil private survey contractor assigned for this campus. | ||||
| 140 | Has there been any boring samples/test made for duct bank pathway/trench to determine subsurface condition? | See the included geotechnical information. | ||||
| 141 | If in-wall pathways are being reused, what methods are acceptable when the existing-in wall pathway is not up to the VA standard, i.e., run in flex conduit or run freely through the wall cavity? | Retain existing in-wall pathways. | ||||
| 142 | WAO-Plans do not show/indicate new locations. Is this a 1 for 1 replacement for existing cables/faceplate? | Existing WAO and WAP locations shall be re-cabled. | ||||
| 143 | The current federal acquisition regulation provides exceptions for the use of project labor agreements and gives the VA the discretion to implement these exceptions. Is the VA going to require the use of a project labor agreement in the event the construction estimate exceeds $35 million? | Yes, a PLA will be required if the estimate exceeds $35M | ||||
| 144 | Are there specific manufacturers that are to be used for the Cat6A cable and termination components? | See Specifications for technical requirements. Products adhering to the specifications are acceptable. | ||||
| 145 | Are there specific manufacturers that are to be used for the fiber and termination components? | See Specifications for technical requirements. Products adhering to the specifications are acceptable. | ||||
| 146 | Is there a count and length for Cat6A patch cords? Are we to provide one patch cable for each station and closet end? | See Specification 27 15 00 and Specification 27 16 19. | ||||
| 147 | Is there a count and length for Fiber Patch cords? Are we to provide patch cables for each pair of strand at each end? | Yes, patch cables shall be provided at each end for each pair. See Specifications for additional requirements. | ||||
| 148 | Is there any copper backbone (25-pair or larger) needed? | No. Existing copper/multi-pair backbone shall be retained and reused. | ||||
| 149 | Technology Symbols page specifies cat 6a cabling terminated 6-port pace plate but also states 3 and 4 port to be reduced to 2-port. Please verify the port count for each of the data drops. | 6-port is the style of faceplate. Cable quantities shall be per T-700 series sheets. Locations with 3 or 4 existing data cables shall be reduced to 2. | ||||
| 150 | If 3 and 4-port drops are being reduced to 2, are 5 and 6-port drops remaining or being reduced also? | Yes, all locations greater the 2 ports will be reduced to 2. Owner will review all reduction locations. If any locations require more than the typical 2 ports, the allowance shall be leveraged. | ||||
| 151 | Typical outlet drawing depicts 6 port face plates with 2 blanks, if reducing to 2 ports, should we offer 4 port faceplates with 2 RJ45 jacks and 2 blanks for expansion? | 4-port faceplates are acceptable. | ||||
| 152 | Please verify only 1 CAT 6A drop per Wireless access point | Confirmed. | ||||
| 153 | Room 104 depicts replacing 2 center cabinets on the HDA side, clarifying the remaining network cabinets on the HDA or MDA side will remain. | The MCR Building is all new construction, contractor shall provide all new cabinets as indicate in accordance with the ISTS Small Campus Data Center Template. |
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