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SOLICITATION #: 36C77624R0098
PROJECT NAME: VISN 1 Construction MATOC
TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND VA RESPONSE TRACKING SHEET
| Item No. |
| MATOC |
| SEED PROJECT |
| QUESTION |
| GOVERNMENT RESPONSE |
| X |
| Please confirm whether the estimate should be broken down into eight separate construction phases or provided as a single comprehensive estimate. |
If the estimate should be broken down into eight separate phases, please provide Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical Plans segmented by construction phase.
Offerors are required to submit BOTH Attachments 06b & 06c. Refer to Section Instructions, Conditions, and Other Statements to Offerors.
No need to break down construction estimate by phase of construction. Please use bid drawings & specifications to submit cost-estimate for the project
| Volume III has a requirement to provide all completed reps and certs, however those sections are not included in the solicitation to fill in. Are we to download them from online to fill our or can these be provided? |
| Per 3.1, the provisions or clauses incorporated by reference in this solicitation must be completed by the offeror and submitted with the offer. Copies of these provisions or clauses are available on the Internet at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far |
https://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/ If you cannot download them, please request a copy from the contracting officer via email.
| X |
| Please provide an ACM/Lead Surveys for this project. |
| Refer to Mabbett Report. RBM survey report provided, results indicated no lead or ACM in tested samples. See Attachment 1A - 21 _0521 523A4-20-205 RBM Report |
| Will the government extend the past performance period of relevance from (5) years to (7) years? |
| Yes, it can be changed from (5) years to seven (7) years to accommodate changes in the market. Projects completed within the past (7) years will be deemed recent. |
| Volume I Format: states "The page limit for Volume I is 20 pages. CPARS and PPQs do not count toward this page limit." AND 1.Proposal Volumes: states "The cover page and Table of Contents do not count toward page limitation." Please confirm in addition to the identified pages, that the title page and tab dividers also do not count toward the total page count. |
| The provided outline for a cover page and table of contents, as well as CPARS and PPQs, do not count toward the page limit. We are not sure what title page and tab dividers you are referring to. See 2.10.1 for information on volume cover pages and tables of contents. |
RFP Page 22 of 69, Factor 1, Past Performance states:
"Offerors should identify no less than THREE (3), and no more than FIVE (5), completed construction contracts the offeror considers most relevant in demonstrating the ability to perform the proposed effort."
Question:
Will the government accept Past Performance project examples for Factor 1 that are "Substantially Complete"? (Meaning that enough work has been performed such that it demonstrates the ability to successfully complete all phases of the project.)
No, projects should be 100% complete.
| X |
| In the cost estimating form, Attachment 06c, it does not lend to using subcontractors for mechanical and electrical work. Is it the intention of the government that mechanical and electrical system estimates be itemized and marked up as if all that work was being done by the prime? |
It is not the intention of the government to dictate which disciplines are subcontracted and which are performed by the prime. For the purposes of this solicitation, all labor and material costs, regardless of who does the work, needs to be captured on Attachment 06c.
Offerors are required to submit BOTH Attachments 06b & 06c. Refer to Section Instructions, Conditions, and Other Statements to Offerors.
| 8 |
| X |
| X |
| Per Volume II: Factor 2, Price instructions (para 1, pg. 23 of the solicitation), it states "the person signing the proposal shall initial each erasure or change appearing on any proposal form." Please confirm that the person signing the proposal only needs to initial erasures or changes if revisions are made after proposals are submitted. |
| Confirmed, the person signing the proposal only needs to initial erasures or changes if revisions are made after proposals are submitted. |
| Per Volume III: Administrative, letter b (pg. 24 of the solicitation), please confirm that the Mentor Protege agreement does not need to be submitted with the proposal. |
| Correct. Only joint ventures need to comply with this section. A copy of the Joint Venture Certification and Joint Venture Agreement is required to be submitted as part of the proposal. The Mentor Protégé agreement does NOT need to be submitted. |
Please clarify that PLA agreements will not be required in accordance with the Department of Veterans Affairs Memorandum dated February 13, 2025, "Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Class Deviation from FAR Parts 22, 36, and 52 – Waiver of Project Labor Agreement Requirements."
c. New Policy. Due to the Court of Federal Claims decision, effective immediately, contracting officers shall not use project labor agreements for large-scale construction projects, implemented at Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) subpart 22.5 and 36.104(c). The FAR clauses at FAR 52.222-33, Notice of Requirement for Project Labor Agreement, and FAR 52.222-34, Project Labor Agreement, shall not be enforced in any solicitation.
At this time PLA agreements on projects over $35Million are required per the FAR. The VA Memorandum dated February 13, 2025, was rescinded February 24, 2025.
Per Volume I: Factor 1, Past Performance (para 3, pg. 21 of the solicitation), it states "At least one of the projects submitted must have been completed by the offeror as the Prime." Please confirm past performance under Mentor Protege JV can be submitted if the project was completed by the Mentor partner only as the Mentor is the "Prime" according to FAR guidelines.
Confirmed. For offerors that are joint ventures, the evaluation will take into account past performance of the joint venture as well as the past performance of each party to the joint venture.
| X |
| Will the government schedule another SEED project site visit for subcontractors? |
No.
| 13 |
| X |
| X |
| Will the government confirm sales tax is to be included for the Seed project? |
This project has been changed to tax exempt.
See updated Attachment 06 - 523A4-20-205 Seed Project Notice of Task Order Request for Proposal – Updated 4-17-25 (Section 7. Special Notes Regarding FAR 52.229-3)
| X |
| The drawings indicate an aluminum stair system. Would galvanized steel also be an option? |
| Provide aluminum stair per drawings and specs. |
| X |
| New wall protection is scheduled for each exam room but the existing head wall and sink are to remain. Are we to assume removal and reinstallation of the headwall and sink to allow for the new wall protection installation? |
| No, refer to renovation scope remark “W1. REMOVE WALL MOUNTED MOVABLE FURNISHINGS, TAPE OFF & PROTECT FIXED |
DEVICES CONNECTED TO MEPFP DURING RENOVATION.”
| Please confirm we are to use the first two pages of the solicitation for the SF1442. |
| Yes. Confirming the first two pages of the solicitation are the SF 1442. Please refer to instructions throughout the solicitation for completing the SF 1442. |
| Can a fillable SF1442 be provided? |
| No. |
| Are we to sign and submit each amendment with our proposal or only acknowledge the amendments on the SF1442. |
| Yes. Each amendment separately requires it to be signed and returned per the instructions on the front page in Box 11. In addition, please refer to section 2.1 Request For Proposal Overview Section 4 “Furthermore, all solicitation amendments (if any) must be acknowledged in accordance with FAR Clause 52.215-1, Instructions to Offerors. The Government reserves the right to reject any proposal for being incomplete or noncompliant, which includes any proposals that fails to acknowledge an amendment”. |
| Can we use PPQs that were filled out for past projects or do new PPQs need to be submitted? |
| PPQ filled out for past projects are acceptable. |
| Per the Volume II – Table of Contents, section 3 states “Solicitation Attachment 06c – Base Offer Cost Breakdown and any supporting price documentation”. Are we required to submit subcontractor quotes with our proposal? |
| No. |
| The finish schedule for exam room 10 shows fire suppression but the fire suppression drawings don’t show exam room 10. Is the sprinkler in exam room 10 to be replaced? |
| Exam 10 sprinkler replacement is not required. Only required at Exam 8 GA-180. See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01 |
| X |
| Is the roof currently under warranty? |
| Yes, roof is under warranty. |
| X |
| Who is the contractor that has the warranty on the roof? |
| Garland. |
| X |
| Please confirm the SSHO has to be a separate individual from the Superintendent and the QCM. |
| Yes, SSHO (safety) must be separate than Superintendent and QCM. At active construction site, both SSHO & Superintendent must be always present. |
| X |
| Please confirm the Superintendent can be the QCM. |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Please confirm design is required for the sprinkler system. |
| Design and Hydraulic Calculations are required for the fire protection system. All modifications to the system shall be completed in accordance with NFPA13 along with all local governing codes. Contractor shall provide shop drawings for review prior to start of any fire protection work. |
| X |
| Please advise if As-Built drawings are to be provided once the project is complete. |
| Per specs, 010000-1.11C: C. Contractor shall deliver two approved completed sets of as-built drawings (red-line diagram) in the electronic version (scanned PDF) to the COR within 15 calendar days after each completed phase and after the acceptance of the project by the COR. |
| X |
| Does the fire rated caulking need to be third party inspected? |
| Per 078400-1.5C: Contractor to engage a qualified inspector to perform inspections and final reports. |
| X |
| Does the fire rate caulking need to applied by a certified installer? |
| Per 078400-1.5B: B. Installer Qualifications: A firm that has been approved by FM Global |
according to FM Global 4991 or been evaluated by UL and found to comply with UL’s “Qualified Firestop Contractor Program Requirements.” Submit qualification data.
| X |
| How long does the VA have in between phases to move to the finished room? |
| One Week |
| X |
| For bidding purposes, can an amount of ceiling tiles that need to be replaced be provided? The quantity cannot be determined based on the documents. |
Assume that ±400 SF of ceiling tiles (100 tiles) require replacement.
| X |
| Will the VA remove all equipment, beds and furniture from the rooms before work begins in each phase? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Does the existing duct work in the boundaries of Emergency Department need to be cleaned? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Please advise where the crane can be located. |
| Provide lift plan for approval per 013526-1.19C; VA to provide allowed crane locations. (Post award) |
| X |
| Please advise what the make and model of the existing AHU that is to remain. |
| Make: Trane T-Series Climate Changer Air Model: TSCB012U0C000000000ACAA397.0 |
| X |
| Please advise what the make and model of the RTU to be removed. |
| Make – Trane Voyager Model – Not Available. |
| X |
| Please advise if temporary cooling is required? |
| Temporary cooling is not required. Existing AHU-1 will be active |
| X |
| Please confirm seismic bracing is required as shown on drawing MI-101. |
| Required. Refer to 130541 for seismic restraint requirements. |
| X |
| If seismic bracing is required, does all conduit and piping need to be seismic braced? If so, above what is conduit and piping needs it? |
| All piping requires seismic bracing. Conduit greater than 2.5 in trade size is required flexible couplings/connections |
| X |
| What manufacturer are the existing ceiling tiles? |
| Armstrong 824 |
| X |
| Is the intent to supply a new metal curb cap for the 3-EF-50 exhaust fan to be mounted on or to modify the existing metal curb cap. |
| Design intent is to use existing curb and provide new flashing system per sheet AS801. |
| X |
| Please confirm the time schedule for OFF hours work to be performed. |
| Emergency Department is 24/7. This effort will be coordinated with ED nurse manager to find out time of low patient volume, staff and to best time to schedule construction work (noise heavy/shutdowns) for minimal patient impact. |
| X |
| Please confirm the turnaround time between phases. |
| See #30. |
| X |
| Please provide current as-built drawings for the work areas |
| See Attachment 1C - 056_3-1_New Addition - Part Ground Floor Plan - North & Attachment 1D - 690-035 3-85, bldg 3, OREA Ground North Color Accent, 1991 |
| X |
| Per sheet AS-501, please provide specifications and details for the exterior gate (ES1). No information was provided on the Door Schedule |
Refer to 323113-2.6 specification for chain link fence gate hardware and revised drawings (See Attachment 1C - 056_3-1_New Addition - Part Ground Floor Plan - North & Attachment 1D - 690-035 3-85, bldg 3, OREA Ground North Color Accent, 1991)
| X |
| Please provide further detailed information for HW-2 as detailed on Sheet AS-501 |
| See #45. |
| X |
| Please provide specifications for laminated glass (type G-1) since it does not appear in the plans and/or specifications |
| See 080000-3.8, GL0-1=G-1 |
| X |
| Please provide specifications for security laminated glass (type G-2) since it does not appear in the plans and/or specifications. |
| See 080000-3.8, GL-2=G-2 |
| X |
| Please advise on who the existing manufacturers at this facility for the following systems: Fire Alarm, Access Control, DDC Controls, CCTV, Nurse Call and Medical Gas Certification |
| Fire Alarm: EST-3 system (Signet is the Installer, recently changed to Encore for VA maintenance) |
Access Control: Hirsch Electronics, Signet is Installer DDC: Trane
CCTV: NIC
Nurse Call: Rauland Responder 5 Medical Gas: Beacon Medaes (Vendor), Installer must meet specs and qualifications Roof: Garland (roof warranty is through Garland, so work needs to be coordinated with them to maintain warranty
| X |
| Per Renovation Scope Remark F2 on Sheet AS-401 under the flooring remarks, it indicates that flooring type WSF1 is to be installed with an integral base, yet the only base indicated on the Finish Schedule – RB1 and it is a resilient base. Please confirm the proper base for this flooring type. |
| Basis of design for RB1 is a prefabricated integral base that extends 2” horizontally and is weldable to the WSF, see detail 14/AS501. |
| X |
| Please provide specifications for the existing roofing system. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Please advise if there is an existing roofing warranty in place. |
| See #22 |
| X |
| Per Sheet AS-501, please confirm that we are not painting the existing to remain (ETR) doors |
| Repainting of ETR corridor doors NIC. |
| X |
| Can the Contractor’s Project Superintendent be a “dual hat” as the Contractor’s Quality Control Manager (CQCM) on the project? |
| Yes |
| X |
| Please advise who is responsible for terminal cleaning for the CCTV additions. |
| After each phase, GC is responsible for terminal cleaning after construction and VA will handle specialized cleaning of exam rooms. |
| X |
| Please confirm there are enough licenses available |
| Existing cameras to remain. |
| X |
| Please confirm there is enough space on the existing nurse call server for new design. |
| Yes |
| X |
| Please confirm there are enough licenses available for the Access Control additions. |
| Yes |
| X |
| Please advise on deck height |
| ±13’-4” (varies because roof slab at low roof level is sloped) |
| X |
| Please advise on deck/floor construction type and thickness |
| Low Roof/Level 1 floor construction is noted on record drawings as 4-1/4” lightweight concrete topping on 2” deep, 18 ga. Composite steel deck w/ 4”x4” WWF. |
| X |
| Per specification section 01-00-00-43 note E, please confirm off hours working time. |
| See #42 |
| X |
| Will the VA provide a designated storage area for the furnishings to be removed in all of the exam rooms? |
| No. VA will take care of storage of furniture and equipment for the exam rooms. |
| X |
| Please confirm all devices that are to be installed within mental health rooms shall follow New York State Office of Mental Health Guidelines per drawing FX-100 note 12 and Specification section 01-00-00-1 note C. If so, please provide guidelines. |
| Per Specs, Contractor shall submit to VA manufacturer’s proof that all |
finish products and systems are suitable for Mental Health application as per level of risk that are not expressly identified as suitable in the current New York State Office of Mental Health Patient Safety Standards. Materials and System Guidelines and or the current Department of Veterans Affairs Design Guide for Metal Health Facilities.”
The guide latest guide can be accessed at: https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/patient_safety_standards/guide.pdf
| X |
| Please confirm a lay down area will be provided to the contractor. |
| No. The contractor is allowed one trailer in contractor’s lot. |
| X |
| Have any hazardous material reports been conducted? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Please confirm the fire alarm vendor. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| For the purpose of determining structural design efforts, please confirm no structural reinforcements are needed to the building structure. |
| Confirmed. |
| X |
| Please clarify the desired sprinkler head in MH Exam 8 ( GA- 180 ). The fire suppression legend on drawing FX- 001 and detail 2 on FX- 100 calls for an upright Anti-Ligature Sprinkler Head, while keyed note 1 on FX-100 calls for a recessed head. |
| A flush mounted pendant anti-ligature sprinkler head shall be provided. |
| X |
| Please confirm the PCL and PACS monitoring vendor. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Please provide utility as-builts for the proposed concrete pad and exterior stair location detailed on page AS- 701. |
| Not Available. |
| X |
| Does the existing central electrical service have the capacity for the new electrical load? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Please confirm the brand and model number of panel LPPGA. |
Square D NQOD. Contractor is responsible to verify.
| X |
| Please confirm the mounting location and quantity for Type A light fixtures detailed on E-103. |
| See drawing 2 E103, exterior wall mount. |
| X |
| Please confirm if duct smoke detection detailed on E-103 General note 1. should be supply side, return side or both? |
| Duct smoke detection to be provided on both the supply and the return side. |
| X |
| Please confirm if the card reader cabling needs to be in conduit. |
| Card reader cabling is required to be installed within conduit. |
| X |
| Please confirm if the new LCGA-1 panel is to be a 3-phase board. |
| Panelboard LCGA-1 is existing. |
| X |
| What is the allowed panel down time for panel LCGA for punching and tie in for new panel LCGA-1 |
| VA Shutdown plan/procedures will be discussed post award with the awarded contractor. |
| X |
| The new Building 3 exhaust fan power circuit is to originate from Panel LEDGC. Can a drawing be provided showing the location of this panel? |
| LEDGC is located in Emergency Generator Room GC-100 adjacent to HEDGC. |
| X |
| Please confirm the hardware set for the door schedule detailed on AS-501 is accurate and HW-3 and HW-4 are not inverted. |
These are inverted. See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01
| X |
| The wood glazing detail calls for the bead to be nails on one side and screws on the other side. It this for all the doors or just the isolation doors? |
Understanding is that this question is about 081400-2.2C; if so, this is a for all doors.
| Factor 1- Past Performance: What dollar value projects does the government consider relevant? |
| There is no established project dollar value in the relevancy determination. |
| X |
| Drawing G1002 Finish Schedule call for products listed below are B.O.D. can you provide the definition of the acronym as it is not defined in the abbreviations. |
| B.O.D.: Basis of Design |
| X |
| We are responsible for storage of items to be salvaged, Is there a location on campus that salvaged material can be stored |
| No. |
| X |
| Sheet G1002, General demolition notes: Item 11 maintain connection and function of all systems serving floors and below. There will be times where systems may be shutdown for reconnections for a temporary period. Would this be acceptable upon notification of shutdown. |
| Shutdown procedures will be discussed with the awarded contractor. |
| X |
| Sheet G1103The light shaded area at Grid A8 and the Vest,Elec Closets can you provide the graphic key as these areas are not defined. |
| Refer to room infill legend on GI002, this infill type indicates “IMPACTED BY RENOVATIONS FOR CEILING/UTILITY CONNECTION WORK ONLY” |
| X |
| Sheet G1120, Corridor at Grid D-G,2 and Grid 2 between C and D. Are labeled the same CG-20, provide separate corridor label for individual areas. |
| These are continuous spaces and the same corridor, CG-20 applies to both areas. |
| X |
| Sheet G1120, Corridor CG-26 at Grid 4-7 along Grid C. The phasing graphic does not indicate work is not in scope, but the plans indicate card reader. Can you clarify which phase of work this area would be in? |
| Door is in scope for card reader replacement only. |
| X |
| Sheet AS701 Detail 21, the new slab is installed next the existing building, can you provide a detail indicating the section at the new slab to the existing wall and is the new slab tied into the existing building? If it is tied can you provide tie-in detail? |
| Do not tie new concrete pad for stair to existing building. Provide ±1/2” expansion joint with joint filler at intersection with exterior wall of existing building. See Addendum #1 revisions to include clarification. |
| X |
| Sheet AS401, Demolition note 01 and renovation remarks D.1, is the existing doors to be salvaged or disposed of off site? |
| Disposed offsite. |
| X |
| Sheet AS401, Demolition note 01 frame and hardware to remain in place, if frame is damaged are we required to repair / replace? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Sheet AS401 the existing ceiling tile is to be removed, can you provide the product data for the existing ceilings or identify the manufacture, model in order to match existing conditions. |
| Refer to #40 |
| X |
| Sheet AS401B Roof Details, can you provide the existing roof assembly profile or provide existing as-built drawings. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Sheet AS401B Can you provide the structural roof system as-built drawings for the new exhaust fan at grids B,10 and 11.and Grid B2 |
| See Attachment 1E - 090_3-S3_First Floor Framing Plan North & Attachment 1F - 108_3-S21_First & Second Floor Sections |
| X |
| Sheet AS401B for the new roof top unit and exhaust are we required to modify the existing roof structure for support, if so can you provide engineering support requirements. |
| See #67 |
| X |
| AS401 Detail 2 ceiling finish schedule indicate "ETR", can you provide acronym name for clarity as it was not included in the finish schedule or abbreviations on sheet G1002 we assume "existing to remain" please clarify |
| ETR: Existing to remain |
| X |
| Has an asbestos survey been performed? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Are we required to provide an asbestos assessment? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Has the existing floor adhesive been tested for asbestos? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Are we responsible to remove any asbestos adhesive or other items classified as asbestos? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Sheet AS501 Door schedule, legend, notes the Key "SWD - Security Door, the door schedule does not indicated this door key, can you provide location ? |
| Door GA-180. See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01 |
| X |
| Sheet AS501 Door schedule, legend, notes fire rating Key 45 and 90, Are there doors that require 45 and 90 minute ratings |
| All replacement door leaves/doors to match existing rating; based on existing drawings available to A/E, all doors in scope assumed unrated with exception of corridor doors which are existing to remain. |
| X |
| Sheet AS701, Detail 22 and 14 stair parapet roof, can you provide the length dimension of the landing from the outside exterior wall. |
| Landing to be ±7’-11” from exterior wall (full width of stair +10”), ±3’-4” width (width to match stair run width) – dimensions provided are to outside of stringers. |
| X |
| Sheet AS701, Detail 22 and 14 stair parapet roof, can you provide the length and width dimension of the stair section from landing to the roof. |
| See #103. |
| X |
| Fire sprinkler system, are we allowed to utilize flexible connections from main branch lines to heads |
| Per FX-100 General Notes #1 Flexible connections are prohibited. |
| X |
| At new exterior stairway there is a large grade difference, can you provide a site grading profile. |
| Per AS701 CONTRACTOR TO PROVIDE SURVEY OF AREA AND DELEGATED DESIGN FOR |
STAIR CONNECTION AT GROUND AND PREFABRICATED STAIR
| X |
| At new exterior stairway there is a large grade difference, Are we required to provide a retaining wall at new stairway slab |
| See #105 |
| Solicitation Section 2.9.2 states that proposals must not exceed 5MB total. Can this be increased to 10MB per proposal volume to allow sufficient detail in our proposal? |
| No, we cannot accept emails over 10MB, so the 5MB is to ensure we receive your proposal. |
| Solicitation Section 4.2 references VAAR 852.204-71 Information and Information Systems Security. This section references VA Directive 6500. VA Directive 6500 references NIST 800-53 and NIST 800-171. Can the VA please verify that Contractors, subcontractors, their employees, third-parties, and business associates with access to VA information, information systems, or information technology (IT) or providing and accessing IT-related goods and services, shall adhere to VA Directive 6500, VA Cybersecurity Program, and the directives and handbooks in the VA 6500 series related to VA information (including VA sensitive information and sensitive personal information and information systems security and privacy), as well as those set forth in the contract specifications, statement of work, or performance work statement? |
| This VAAR clause cannot be removed as it may apply to a specific task order on the vehicle. This clause does not apply to the seed project, however. |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.3 Paragraph D will there be escorted security required to travel from the work zone thru the non work area. For security and safety of crews? |
| No. |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.6, B Can you provide the location designated for the contractors staging and storage area. |
| Contractor lot. No storage of material is allowed at this location |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.15 Temporary Toilets, are we able to utilize an existing bathroom for construction workers? |
| No. Portable/temporary toilet at contractor’s lot provided by contractor. |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.21 Construction sign can you provide location where the sign is to be located |
| Post award discussion with safety officer. |
| X |
| Section 01 0000 1.22 Photographic Documentation, can we provide the construction photos electronically in lieu of disk or DVD? |
| Yes. We prefer photos uploaded in Procore. |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.22 Photographic Documentation, can we provide the construction photos in lieu of a commercial photographer? |
| No. Final set of commercial photos to be provided. |
| X |
| 01 00 00 Section 1.22 Photographic Documentation- Contractor shall provide all on-line domain/web hosting can we utilize our project management software "Procore" to provide the photo documentation |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.23 Digital Images can you provide the required quantity of 16 x 20 images |
| One set |
| X |
| Section 01 00 00 1.25 VA Tririga CPMS is this Management system a requirement for the seed project. |
| Procore can be used for all submittals, photos, RFI and any communication with VA. |
| X |
| Section 01 33 23 Submittals - can you provide the duration for approval submittals including A/E and VA Review |
| 20 workdays. Per 013216.15-1.7-3: The duration for VA approval of any required submittal, shop drawing, or other submittals will not be less than required by the specifications or 20 workdays if not otherwise indicated. |
| X |
| Section 01 33 23 Submittals - are we able to utilize "Procore" system for submittal processing and management. |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Section 01 45 00 3.4 B CQC Manager will they be allowed to perform others duties such as Project Superintendent. |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Section 01 35 26 Section 1.9.B calls for a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) to make monthly inspections. Is there a specific credential the VA is looking for the CSP to have? |
| No. |
| X |
| Section 01 45 00 3.4 B CQC Manager will they be required to have completed the Construction Quality Management (CQM) for Construction course offered by the Naval Facilities Engineering Command and the Army Corps of Engineers? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Section 01 35 26 Section 1.7.C, calls for the SSHO to be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO. Does the SSHO have to be a direct employee of the Prime Contractor? |
| No. |
| X |
| 01 58 162 Temporary Interior Signage 1.2 related work Section 10 14 00 Signage is missing from specifications |
| Specification reference not applicable, disregard. |
| X |
| 01 58 162 Temporary Interior Signage is there a temporary interior signage schedule identified? |
| Provide as required for construction. Per GI002 general notes #6 EGRESS TO BE MAINTAINED THROUGHOUT ENTIRETY OF CONSTRUCTION, PROVIDE TEMPORARY SIGNAGE AS REQ'D. |
| X |
| 01 81 13 Sustainable Construction Requirements 1.2 related work Section 01 57 19 Temporary Environmental Controls is missing from the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 01 91 00 General Commissioning Requirements 1.8 C Commissioning team can you confirm the Commissioning agent is excluded from the contractors scope and will be appointed and paid for by the VA |
| Contractor shall retain commissioning agent |
| X |
| Section 02 41 00 Demolition 1.2 Related work D Asbestos Removal 02 82 11 is not included in specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 02 41 00 Demolition 1.2 Related work D 02 83 33.13 Lead Based Paint is not included in specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 02 41 00 Demolition 1.2 Related work D 01 57 19 Temporary Environmental is not included in specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 06 10 00 Rough Carpentry 1.2 Related work B. 06 20 00 Finish Carpentry is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 07 92 00 Joint Sealants 1.2 Related work E. 21 05 11 Fire Suppression is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 07 92 00 Joint Sealants 1.2 Related work E. 22 05 11 Plumbing is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 08 11 13 HM Doors 1.2 Related work A.08 71 00 Door Hardware is not included in the specifications |
| See #124; Hardware sets are listed on drawings, and in chain link fence spec, disregard reference. |
| X |
| Section 08 11 13 HM Doors 1.2 Related work B. 28 13 00 Access Control System is not included in the specifications |
| See #124; Access control system scope is limited to card reader replacement at existing locations. |
| X |
| Section 08 11 13 HM Doors 1.2 Related work C. 28 16 00 Intrusion Detection is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 08 11 13 HM Doors 1.2 Related work D. 28 23 00 Video Surveillance is not included in the specifications |
| See #56 |
| X |
| Section 08 14 00 Interior Wood Doors 2.5 finishes Are the wood doors factory finished or field finishes please clarify? |
| Provide factory finish. Provide veneer and finish per 090600: Sliced White Maple Veneer, Clear Finish |
| X |
| Section 08 31 13 Access Doors and Frames 1.2 Related work D.22 40 00 Plumbing Fixtures is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 08 31 13 Access Doors and Frames can you provide an access door schedule in the plans |
| Per 083113-3.2B, B. Install access doors and panels permitting access to service valves, traps, dampers, cleanouts, and other mechanical, electrical and conveyor control items concealed in walls and partitions, and concealed above gypsum board ceilings. |
Per MG-001 General note #2: ACCESS PANELS IN HARD SUSPENDED CEILINGS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL VALVES, TRAPS, DAMPERS, CLEANOUTS, CONTROLS, ETC. ACCESS PANELS SHALL BE FURNISHED AND INSTALLED UNDER THE ARCHITECTURAL SPECIFICATIONS. COORDINATE LOCATION WITH MECHANICAL INSTALLATION AND DEMONSTRATE ACCESS TO EQUIPMENT SERVED.
| X |
| Section 08 80 00 Glazing 1.2 Related work C.10 28 00 Toilet Accessories is not included in the specifications |
| See #124 |
| X |
| Section 08 80 00 Glazing 2.3 Plastic Glazing can you provide location of required materials |
| To be used as component of 088000-3.9 Security glazing. |
| X |
| Section 09 06 00 Finishes 2.1 Digital Color Photos can you provide additional details on requirements for labels? Color, fonts, substrate |
| Digital photos with labels are fine. (No requirements on color, photos, fonts). |
| X |
| Will any of the commissioning for this project require commissioning services for existing systems in the building? |
| Commissioning of existing-to-remain AHU |
| X |
| AS801 & MI-102 provide roof curb differing roof details, please clarify which should be used. |
| Use detail on AS801 |
| X |
| Please indicate the current access control system. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Please indicate the current nurse call system. |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Confirm that there is no fire alarm work required for this project. |
| Alarm work required for duct detection. |
| X |
| Confirm that no additional structural framing/bracing will be required for the new AHU. |
| See #67 |
| X |
| Confirm no new signage will be required. |
| New signage NIC. |
| X |
| Will a door hardware specification be provided or are we to bid per the door schedule notes? |
| Hardware spec will not be issued, refer to drawings (See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01) and division 32 specs |
| X |
| Will there be contractor laydown/staging areas available? If so, please indicate available locations. |
| No. |
| X |
| Will VA handle moving/handling of medical equipment/furniture in each patient room? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| If contractor is to move medical equipment/furniture in each patient room, please indicate appropriate staging areas. |
| No. VA will move medical equipment/furniture in each patient room. |
| X |
| Would hot-dipped galvanized steel be acceptable for the stair structure? |
| See #14 |
| X |
| Please confirm that SSHO is stand-alone. |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Please confirm that the QCM may also serve as project superintendent. |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Will the owner accept Procore Project Management software as the primary submittal and data tracking tool for this project? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| As a result of the effect of COVID-19 throughout the U.S., and the resulting Federal, State and local governments’ responses / requirements of safe distancing and potential advocations of working remotely and/or complete organization closures, please advise how the Government intends to address delays resulting there as it pertains to the current solicitation schedule for this and all future projects. |
| A schedule will be established per task order. |
| X |
| What is the approximate duration between issuing the award and issuing the NTP? |
| Issuance of Notice to Proceed (NTP) is at the discretion of the contracting office (typically between 2-3 weeks). |
| X |
| For planning the preliminary project schedule, can you please provide an anticipated award date? |
| No. At this time an award date cannot be accurately estimated. |
| X |
| Specifications section 01 35 26 para 1.7 does not outline if SSHO can dual hat as project superintendent in addition to SSHO duties. We believe that this project should require an SSHO separate from super as this is a multiphase project within an operation Emergency Department. Can an SSHO Super requirement be added to the required staffing plan? |
| SSHO & Superintendent cannot be same person. |
| X |
| Specifications section 01 45 00 para 3.4.B states that CQC has duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. We believe that this project should require a QC manager separate from super as this is a multiphase project within an operation Emergency Department. Can a QA/QC Super requirement be added to the required staffing plan? |
| No. Please see specifications. |
| X |
| How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for owner and A/E submittal review? |
| See #118. |
| X |
| Will the Government provide the 3-D REVIT Design model in native file format, for the creation of coordination drawings? |
| Upon request, the VA may provide the Revit file(s) to the General Contractor after bid has been awarded. Prior to providing the Revit file(s), the General Contractor shall be required to sign an Electronic File Transfer agreement that defines that the Revit file is explicitly NOT part of the Contract Documents in whole or in part and that the GC may use at their own risk. Furthermore, the use of Revit file shall not release the GC from their responsibility for field verifications and on-site investigations of existing conditions as required in the contract documents |
| X |
| Will the owner provide the contract drawings in the native Revit format for use by the GC? |
| See #165 |
| X |
| Will owner require GC’s to develop and submit coordination drawings in Revit? |
| No. |
| X |
| Will the owner provide as-built drawings for the existing structures/work area of the project? |
| Yes. See Attachment 1C - 056_3-1_New Addition - Part Ground Floor Plan - North & Attachment 1D - 690-035 3-85, bldg 3, OREA Ground North Color Accent, 1991 |
| X |
| Where will the designated parking & laydown area be for workers accessing the construction site? |
| See #152 |
| X |
| How many site visits do owner consultants have for MEP and systems coordination with GC? |
| Site visit with AE will be coordinated by VA COR, if needed. |
| X |
| Can the owner confirm that the General Contractor is to not include any Asbestos or Lead Removal? |
| Confirmed. See #3. |
| X |
| Has the work area been checked for asbestos, lead based materials and/or other hazardous materials? Is there a report available? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| What is the Government's policy if asbestos products are encountered during construction which is not quantified in the construction documents? |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Does the contract include liquidated damages? |
| No, the seed project does not include liquated damages. Please refer to Attachment 06 Section 12 Liquidated Damages: N/A to this task order. |
| X |
| Please confirm that the owner will provide fire watch during the period of time that the fire suppression system is not in service. |
| Fire watch to be provided by the contractor |
| X |
| 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? |
| No. See #127 |
| X |
| E-104 keynote 2 mentions to integrate new nurse call system into existing. Please clarify existing nurse call system brand, provide vendor's contact, and provide any additional pertinent information like if this system requires RTLS (real time locating services) for staff and patients. |
| See #147. Not RTLS |
| X |
| Who is the owner's service provider for the fire alarm system? Can you please provide contract information? |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Can CPAR's be used in place of PPQ's? |
| Per 2.11, If a completed past performance evaluation is available in CPARS, it shall be submitted with the proposal for each project identified. If there is not a completed past performance evaluation available in CPARS, then the Offeror shall submit a PPQ. |
| X |
| If RFI answers elicit a follow-up question, will an additional RFI submission period be allowed? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Has the facility Operation & Maintenance team reviewed the Contract Documents for operability to avoid change orders? |
| Yes. |
| X |
| Will the construction of the exterior concrete slab for the stairs require erosion control or SWPPP measures? Please outline the requirements, if they are needed. |
| See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01 specification for erosion control needs. |
| X |
| Many VA campuses are beginning to address Tuberculosis protocols on VA campus projects. Are there any TB required protocols for this campus/project? |
| Refer to 013526-1.13 |
| X |
| Who is the VA campus Nurse Call / Code Blue provider? |
| See #147. |
| X |
| Who is the VA campus/building PACS/Video/ Security system vendor / provider? |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Where is the designated contractor job site trailers and employee parking? |
| See #110 |
| X |
| Where is the designated contractor area for trash dumpsters? |
| Post Award determination |
| X |
| Please clarify if there are any required vendors or subs that GCs must use on this project other than the Trane Tracer for controls and Garland Co for roofing (e.g., fire alarm, PACS, controls, etc.) |
| See #49 for list of campus standard vendor/service providers. |
| X |
| Please clarify if the GC will be able to use an office in the hospital for construction office in lieu of a construction trailer in the parking lot |
| No. |
| X |
| Please clarify construction office trailer location |
| See #110 |
| X |
| Please clarify if the GC and subcontractors would be allowed to use the current hospital's restroom facilities or if temporary toilets would need to be provided |
| No. GC to provide temporary toilet |
| X |
| Page AS407 the Room Schedule shows FP1 mark in the Fire Protection column for room GA-182, which implies anti-ligature sprinkler head. Please confirm this is a typo and there's no sprinkler work in Room GA-182. |
| Refer to #21. |
| X |
| AS701 Detail 12 Note states Contractor shall provide topographic survey or conduct on site field investigations as required and provide ground penetrating radar scans. Please clarify what is the VA's expectation for GC's deliverables with these surveys? Are you looking for a civil-like plan showing existing conditions or just identifying any conflicting utilities in the area. Is this merely for information purposes research or do you expect specific deliverables? |
| The intent of topographic survey and ground penetrating radar scan is to investigate sub-surface existing condition to define the delegated design requirements for the new secure stair systems. Including but not limited to defining the immediate grade changes to address the new slab and to define any subsurface utilities to coordinate slab and other below grade concrete work. |
| X |
| FX-001 Fire Protection General Note 6 states Contractor should obtain flow test data indicating the water flow and pressure available or perform a new test. Please clarify if the flow test data is available or if the contractor needs to perform a new flow test. |
| VA shall provide most current flow testing data. Most current flow testing data can be utilized. |
| X |
| AS501 Detail 23 Door Schedule shows hardware HW-2 at exterior gate. Hardware HW-2 is defined as exterior gate hardware - pad lock. However, AS701 Detail 14 mentions lever handles both sides with latch and lock for padlock. Moreover, AS701 Detail 12 mentions gate with hardware for pad lock. Lastly, AS702 Detail 25 mentions pad lock hardware with interchangeable 7 pin best core. Please clarify exactly what is GC required to provide for hardware at exterior gate, is it only pad lock latch and a padlock with an interchangeable core, is padlock by VA, are levers required, etc. |
| Latch and Pad lock hardware per division 32 specs only. See Attachment 1B - 25_0418-523A4-19-205.A01 |
| X |
| FX-001 General Note 26, FX-100 General Note 12, and Demolition Note on E-001 reference New York State mental health guidelines for mental health spaces. Please confirm that the reference to New York State guidelines is applicable to a project in Massachusetts. |
| Yes, this NYS guide is an industry standard reference, and referenced by VA standard, although it is for a different state than project location. The guide latest guide can be accessed at: https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/patient_safety_standards/guide.pdf |
| X |
| MD-002 states to demolish, salvage, and return to the VA existing RTU-1. Please clarify if GC needs to abate the refrigerant or if it will be performed by others/no abatement needed. |
| RTU-1 is currently abandoned, and the refrigerant is inactive, so no abatement needed |
| X |
| ED101 has keyed notes 1-9. Keynotes 1-8 state ETR (Existing to Remain); however, keynote 9 does not mention ETR. Please confirm keynote 9/Panel LCGA-1 208/120V - Emergency is an existing panel to remain. |
| LGCA-1 is existing to remain. |
| X |
| E-104 shows C1 camera at GA-180 MH Exam 8 (without mentioning that this camera is existing to remain). General Note 1 on E-104 says cameras will be compatible with the existing system. AS406 Detail 03 says Camera to remain. Please clarify scope of work regarding existing camera and outline if this camera is existing to remain, existing to be reworked, or new. |
| Camera is existing to remain. |
| X |
| Please clarify if asbestos testing has been performed at this project and if any ACM or lead paint are anticipated. Please provide asbestos and lead sampling reports to define asbestos abatement and lead encapsulation scope, if any. |
| See #3. |
| X |
| Bid solicitation attachment 06c has three tabs. Although the Base Offer tab is self-explanatory, this attachment also has tabs titled Labor Detail and Materials and Equipment Details. These two tabs (Labor and Materials) are providing a very detailed example including breaking down labor by individual worker and breaking down the material to list out each individual components like couplings and pipe. Please confirm that as part of this submission, GC needs to complete only the Base Offer tab as the process of filling out the Labor Detail and Materials and Equipment Details tab would be extremely cumbersome. |
| Offerors are required to submit BOTH Attachments 06b & 06c. Refer to Section Instructions, Conditions, and Other Statements to Offerors. |
| X |
| S-100 Detail 2 shows haunched slab but note 6 states ensure minimum haunch depth is achieved. The haunch depth of 0" would be the most minimal, but this would eliminate the haunch portion of the slab. Please clarify the turndown edge thickness of slab. |
| Haunch depth to provide 8” minimum concrete below grade, notes on sheet S100 and 23/AS701 |
| X |
| E-104 keynote 2 mentions to provide shop drawings showing all associated devices and connections for a complete and operational system. Please confirm the shop drawing requirement considering the nurse call scope is limited to the addition of 1 single patient station (enhanced) with pillow speaker, code, and staff assist touch points |
| Confirmed – provide shop drawings detailing the submitted system and associated connections and installation requirements. |
| X |
| AS401B shows the addition of a 6,600 lbs AHU on top of existing roof. Please confirm existing roof structure is sufficient to support the additional load or provide structural drawings outlining the extent of rework of existing framing to accommodate the new AHU on roof. |
| See #67 |
| X |
| AS402 detail 1 mentions that work in the corridor CG-21B to be done after hours and the area to remain open during day. This detail also shows temporary partitions in the corridor. Considering that this area needs to remain open during the day, will plastic sheathing barrier be acceptable in this hallway while the work is actively being performed or should temporary walls be set up and tore down daily? |
| Temporary partition must meet ICRA requirements. Design intent for duration of work at CG21B is that Triage room can be used as temporary path for Nurse Station Access, and Triage will use waiting room side door only. |
| X |
| AS501 detail 15 shows 2 details for vinyl to vinyl transition: one detail shows a transition strip and the other one does not. Please clarify where transition strips occur. |
| Transition strip (top detail 15/AS501) is for transition between two difference finishes; bottom detail is a flooring seam within the same material. Transition strip to be provided at dissimilar finish transitions such as at doors from existing to new floor. |
| X |
| AS501 detail 23 Door Schedule shows hardware HW-4 at doors CG-20, CG-25, and CG-26 and provides a comment to replace card reader. However, Hardware Type Description for HW-4 hardware is for a new door leaf and edge guard, kick plate and stretcher plate. Please confirm to use HW-3 for doors CG-20, CG-25, and CG-26 |
| See #79 |
| X |
| AS501 detail 23 Door Schedule shows hardware HW-3 at doors GA-145 through GA-187 (except door GA-180). However, Hardware Type Description for HW-3 is |
| See #79 |
| X |
| AS801 details 22 and 25 and page MI-102 detail 2 show wood blocking at existing roof structure. Considering that the existing roof is metal deck over structural steel, please provide updated detail that depict accurate scope to rework existing roof structure to accommodate new roof-mounted equipment. |
| Record drawings show concrete on metal deck at low roof location for new AHU. |
| X |
| MI-102 detail 2 shows stainless metal flashing at AHU roof curb. Please clarify if galvanized sheet metal flashing will be acceptable. |
| Per 076000, galvanized steel is not listed as applicable material. |
| 211 |
| X |
| X |
| Per the solicitation it states: Please do not wait until the last minute to submit your offer. Late proposals will not be accepted for evaluation. To avoid submission of late proposals, we recommend the transmission of your proposal files 24 hours prior to the required due date and time. Please be advised that timeliness is determined by the date and time an offeror’s proposal is received on the Government’s server; not when an offeror attempted transmission. |
As I know we are to submit 3 emails. It is difficult to get everyone's final pricing the day before the proposal is due. Will it be acceptable to submit Vol II Price on the submission due date and Vol I and Vol III the day before?
Yes, you can submit information whenever you would like. However, please be aware, if any portion of the proposal is late, the entire proposal is considered late.
| On the PPQs there is a section that needs to be filled in called “original implementation price”. Please advise what cost needs to be included in this section. |
| Put N/A |
| On the PPQs is the “original contract acceptance (construction accepted) date” the original scheduled completion date? |
| Yes, please provide the end of the original period of performance. |
| 214 |
| X |
| X |
| Sending out the past performance questionnaires and can you please clarify under section 2 – Contract information – Contract number and do/to number – what is the do/to number? Do you mean the project number?, Task Order Number? or the Obligation Number? |
| DO/TO is the delivery order/task order number. |
| X |
| We have a question regarding the “Past Performance Questionnaire/CPARS for Projects”. We have submitted other proposal responses to the VA in the past, and in doing so our clients have completed these evaluation forms. Are these evaluation forms stored somewhere and can be reused? Or do we need to re-ask our clients to send them in for the new submission? |
| They are not stored somewhere. Yes, you will need to re-ask your clients to send them in for the new submission. Please refer to section 2.11 Information to be Submitted Volume 1: Factor 1, Past Performance. |