Amendment 0003 - Tech Questions Tracker.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND SOLICITATION #: 36C77625B0021

RESPONSES TRACKING SHEET PROJECT TITLE: 586-21-700 EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades – Jackson, MS

# RECEIVED ANSWERED CONTRACTOR QUESTION AE/VA RESPONSE

1 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 283100 – Fire Alarm & Detection: New speaker strobes and duct detectors are shown on F001. Can the VA advise the manufacturer of the existing fire alarm system? Is there an existing maintenance contractor for the fire alarm system? If so, can you please provide the contact information for the maintenance contractor?

As noted on the drawings, the existing system in the hospital is by Siemens. We do not have the contact information.

2 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide additional time for this procurement.

EHRM projects of this size and complexity have had significantly longer procurement durations which benefit the VA by giving sufficient time for the contractors resulting in more accurate pricing.

Please follow the period of performance in the solicitation.

3 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the superintendent shall not have any shared duties as the Quality Control Manage (QCM), SSHO or any other roles on the project.

Please follow guidance in the solicitation.

Superintendent cannot perform SSHO duties.

Superintendent can perform CQC system manager duties if they meet solicitation specification requirements.

4 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the SSHO shall not have any shared duties as the QCM, the superintendent or any other role on the project.

Confirmed. Please follow solicitation requirements.

5 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the Low Voltage Subcontractor is required to have certified RCDD person on staff.

Typically, the VA requires on EHRM projects that the cable installer must have on staff a Registered Communication Distribution Designer (RCDD) certified by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI).

Please follow solicitation requirements.

6 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the RCDD Certified Person is not required to be on site full time, for the duration of the cable install. is required to be certified as an RCDD.

Typically the VA requires on EHRM projects that the cable installer must have on staff a Registered Communication Distribution Designer (RCDD) certified by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI).

Please follow solicitation requirements.

7 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 With regards to the Communications Project Manager, can this role be filled by a subcontractor’s staff?

Please follow solicitation requirements.

8 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if the VA can and will be flexible on the site phasing plan provided in this procurement.

Confirmed and expected.

9 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the contractor is to supply all materials testing for the project.

Confirmed.

10 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that all firestopping must be either installed by an FM global approved contractor, or a UL qualified firestop contractor certified.

Confirmed. Reference specification 078400-1.5B

11 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the contractor is to include the services of a third party independent firestopping inspector in their bid.

Confirmed. Reference specification 078400-1.5C & 3.5B Bidder to provide an accredited and qualified firestopping installer that meets the VA requirements listed in the project’s specifications 078400.

12 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that firestopping installers accredited by a firestopping product manufacturer will not be approved by the VA unless they meet the FM global or UL qualifications referenced in section 07 84 00.

Confirmed.

Refer to responses made in 10 and 11 above.

13 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the VA will provide the contractor with a laydown area for dumpsters, toilets, storage, and trailers. We understand there is not much room onsite however without this area there will be an impact to cost and efficiency.

A laydown area will be provided.

14 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a site plan showing the area where the contractor can set their trailer and laydown area(s).

We will work with contractor on where the laydown area will be.

15 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that contractor parking will be provided on site. This directly impacts pricing.

Parking will be dependent on schedule. The VA has smith wills stadium for parking and a shuttle bus. We will accommodate as much as possible. Materials should be brought in as needed.

16 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if this project is tax exempt. If so, will the VA provide the documentation to the prime contractor after award?

Please follow solicitation requirements.

17 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the contractor will be required to submit post award the requested information that the telecommunications contractor shall be a BICSI licensed Contractor with a minimum of five (5) years’ experience installing and servicing systems of similar scope and complexity. The Contractor shall provide four (4) current references from clients with systems of similar scope and complexity which became operational in the past three (3) years. At least three (3) of the references shall be utilizing the same system components, in a similar configuration as the proposed system. The references must include a current point of contact, company or agency name, address, telephone number, complete system description, date of completion, and approximate cost of the project.

18 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the telecommunications contractor must submit copies of system manufacturer certification for all technicians. The Contractor shall provide proof project superintendent with BICSI Certified Commercial Installer Level 1, Level 2, or Technician to provide oversight of the project.

Confirmed.

19 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Spec Section 05 50 00 calls section 1.1B calls out 5 items

(SD055000-01, SD055000-02, SD102113-01, SD102600-

01, SD123100-01 & SD123100-02) but these items are not referenced any where else in the contract documents.

Please clarify.

These are VA standard details listed in the TIL that are listed as needed to replace existing elements impacted by the new work. VA TIL Management System –

REPORTS.

20 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm this project must meet the buy American act requirements.

Please follow solicitation requirements.

21 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm level 4 finish for all finished gypsum board including patches.

Level 4 finish at minimum, for patches existing condition must match adjacent level of finishes. Patch repair must be painted seam to seam.

22 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm painting unless otherwise noted is to be

(3) coats (prime, body, and finish) and will be from "seam to seam" or to a change of materials where walls are patched and refinished.

Confirmed. Please follow solicitation requirements.

23 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm work in common hallways requires use of the control cube method i.e. cart with plastic covering and sealed connection to work site with hepa vacuum for vacuuming prior to exit.

See ICRA sheets and PICRA and ICRA forms provided in the specifications.

24 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the data cables be allowed to be fished in where pathways are not large enough?

Use of J Hooks are allowed where space does not allow for cable tray.

25 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Does the VA have extra network equipment (switch gear, routers, UPS's) to keep the network connected during construction and cut over?

The electrical system is supported by backup generators, and UPS units will be added to ensure seamless cutovers.

The VA will have 10 switches that will be used for transition. A TR will have the rack, power, fiber, new switches, and new cabling installed and tested prior to cutover on the Work Area Outlet Side. After the cutover, the previous switches will be conditioned for the next TR while the contractor prepares the room/s.

26 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Are we required to use plenum rated cabling for all areas?

Can we use riser rated cabling in non plenum spaces?

No. you are not required to use plenum rated cable for all areas.

Yes. You can use riser rated cabling in non-plenum spaces.

See schedule on FA001.

Telecom: Riser cable can be used in non-plenum spaces.

27 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will flexible metal conduit be allowed? Fire Alarm: Only for last 5’ connecting to a device.

Electrical: No. (Follow NFPA) Flexible metal conduit is allowed for Telecom uses, but should only be used as necessary for the task.

28 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm, that all existing conduit stubs for data communications are 3/4".

All surveyed stubs were ¾”. The design team cannot say that all are of equal size.

29 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm existing locations where 1/2" conduits need to be replaced.

Design Engineer cannot confirm this; this needs to be field verified by contractor. ½” conduit will be rare, if used at all, on the project site.

30 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Detail F2 on TN509 indicates a new single gang box with a plaster ring and new 1-1/4” conduit stubbed up above nearest accessible corridor ceiling. Typical Sheet notes indicates that any active phone cable are to remain and we are to punch down the new jack compatible with the new data face plate. Please confirm if the new data drops in each room are to be installed in the existing box and the existing pathway can be used for the new data cable.

Yes, existing pathway (cable tray, conduit, and back boxes) are to be used for the new data cabling. Due to conduit fill ratio constraints, some old (unused) data drops may need to be removed to make room for the new cable in the existing WAO location. If the existing phone outlet is compatible with the new faceplates, the phone drops are to be unchanged. If the new faceplate is not compatible with the existing data drop, the phone outlet must be updated to a compatible outlet that is compatible with the new faceplate. A phone count must be performed to determine how many drops must be swapped out, and how much time is to be billed.

31 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the VA will be working and scheduling with the subsystem vendors on scheduling network outages.

Yes. It is vital that the VA (COR) and other personnel are consulted for all outages prior to scheduling.

32 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide floor to finish heights and floor to structure heights for all buildings.

GC shall field verify all floor to floor heights in field.

33 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there a current roof warranty for each building? If so, please confirm who has the roofing warranty and provide point of contact.

Warehouse, Modular, I wing, A, B, C, Atrium, have a warranty under Carlisle.

All other roofs are either under the Tremco warranty or have expired with the Tremco product.

34 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Mechanical Drawing M201 has been provided indicating the new roof top units required but there are no details provided in the architectural drawings for the new work to be installed on the existing roof. Please provided these architectural details.

See mechanical details for mounting.

35 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the contractor required to provide the licensing for the new Security Cameras? Or will the VA be providing that?

Contractor shall provide necessary licenses for new security cameras.

36 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm contractor include a 5% allowance per building for additional data drops beyond what are shown on the drawings.

Refer to sheet T00 allowance is 10%.

37 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that this project is a competitive Service- Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside project and that any bonding provided by a contractor must be through a SDVOSB or SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protege partnership under the SBA/VA Mentor- Protégé program in which the partnership has been approved prior to the bid date.

This is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside project. Offerors must comply with all solicitation requirements.

38 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that a large business not part of an SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé team under the VA Mentor-Protégé program cannot provide a Payment & Performance bond for a SDVOSB.

This is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside project. Offerors must comply with all solicitation requirements.

39 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that a large business not part of an SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé team under the VA Mentor-Protégé program cannot provide a bid guarantee for a SDVOSB.

This is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business Set-Aside project. Offerors must comply with all solicitation requirements.

40 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm contractor must provide a dust-tight 1-hour rated temporary construction wall with locking door to isolate the area of work when altering rated walls in the facility.

Default to framed partitions. See ICRA sheets and PICRA and ICRA forms provided in the specifications.

VA infection control officer shall confirm the requirements or approve deviation by location and on a case-by-case basis.

41 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a current soils report for the campus. Please see amendment 0003 for information requested.

42 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Outpatient and administration buildings were included in the off hours for work in the project document. Please confirm.

The VA will work with the contractors to work after hours when requested.

43 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please define off hours, we assume off hours to be second shift work but need confirmation.

7:00am-4:30pm CST for most areas but some areas will be different.

44 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Section 01 00 00 general requirements “alterations includes that the GC will provide a thorough survey of areas in which work is to be done with the COR and VA representative in attendance”. Please confirm that the VA staff will schedule and have the time to do these surveys without delaying the contractor as these thorough surveys are extremely time-consuming.

The VA will work to accommodate however the VA sets the schedules and not the contractors. Photos are recommended.

45 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the contractor is not to provide a commercial photographer/subcontractor with 3 years’ experience which would be performing construction progress photography at pre-determined intervals, online hosting, security measures and redundant server back-up for the duration of the project, indexing/navigation will use AutoCAD drawings to be interactive online.

See amendment 0003 General Requirement specification addendum for photographic documentation requirements.

46 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Civil drawings CU102 indicates two new Fiber Optic Plan and Profiles. Keynote #7 on T-001 calls out a new duct bank from building 1 to 3 but this duct bank is not coordinated with the civil drawings. Please provide a civil plan for the duct bank called out on T-001.

Drawing T-001 appears to be telecommunications symbols and abbreviations drawing. There is not enough information to provide a response to this question.

47 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 T-002 is a site plan indicating all of the Internet Service provider(s) pull boxes. Please confirm the contractor does not have any scope of work required for new conduits or duct banks required from the internet service provider pull boxes or pathways into the corner of building 1 and that the existing entry point will be reused as indicated on T- 001.

The addition of a new Main Point of Entry (MPOE) will be accomplished under a different project than the EHRM project. The sheets are for information only.

48 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm contractor to provide (3) maxcell 3-pocket fabric innerducts (mxe86383) in each 4" conduit in the exterior duct banks.

A/E recommends the MXED64283 with is the 3 cell 1” pack that is detectable. 3 packs can be placed in a 4” conduit.

49 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm there is no secondary ceiling in the corridors above the finish ceiling creating any fire rated barrier where the new basket tray would be run.

Spot check and observation performed above the ceiling did not reveal the presence on a secondary ceiling, however not all ceilings plenum spaces in the entire campus were observed or spot checked. GC shall field verify above ceiling conditions.

50 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm we are to install new conduit from the corridor into each room for the new data drops. It is unclear if we can reuse the existing or need to install new.

Existing data drop locations can use existing conduit and back boxes. New drop locations (not shown on the demo sheets) will require new conduit and backboxes if not already existing. Empty back boxes in approximate locations can be reused.

51 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide any sole source justification that are applicable to this project.

Fire Alarm: Siemens.

BMS: JCI

Access Controls: Software House.

CCTV: VICON

52 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there any Maxcell innerduct required in the conduit pathways for Leg A and Leg B fiber runs?

Maxcell is only required for external duct bank runs.

Internal conduit runs do not require Maxcel.

53 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there an incumbent CCTV provider or can everyone bid?

The bidding contractor shall be a Vicon Valerus certified dealer.

54 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there an incumbent Fire Alarm provider or can everyone bid?

As indicated on the drawings, the current system is Siemens. New installation must match existing.

55 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there an incumbent Access Control provider, or can everyone bid?

The bidding contractor shall be a JCI Software House CCure certified dealer. Confirm with VA if current vendor is preferred.

56 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 The Architectural drawings show the removal and reinstallation of the ceilings where cable tray and conduit is to be installed. The ceilings have sprinkler heads, HVAC diffusers, fire alarm devices, nurse call devices, lights, speakers etc. How should each trade figure for the work required but not shown.

Bidder to estimate a percentage amount of ceiling systems will need to be reinstalled as part of their work.

Site Visit was conducted on 07/09/2025 @ 1:00 PM CT giving the bidders an opportunity review the existing conditions.

57 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the ceiling types for bidding purposes in rooms with data devices. This will have a significant impact in pricing based on potential patching and access panels in these rooms if they are hard lid versus ACT.

GC shall field verify existing ceiling types.

58 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Are the existing WAP’s & cameras to be removed? If yes who is responsible for removing the WAP’s & cameras, E.C. or T.C.?

Not E.C.

Existing WAPs are not to be removed. If the UTP is less than CAT 6A, then the data cable is to be replaced.

59 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the E.C. or T.C. responsible for providing and installing the new cameras?

Not E.C.

The bidding contractor shall be a Vicon Valerus certified dealer.

The TC is responsible for new camera mounts. The E.C.

may need to provide conduit path for the TC.

60 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the E.C. or T.C. responsible for installing the owner provided WAP’s?

Neither. No WAPs are to be installed as part of this project.

61 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Are we to assume that areas with existing data devices will not require new fire rated wall sleeves? If new sleeves are required, please provide a count so that bidders will be aligned in scope of work.

The contractor is not expected to rectify any missing wall sleeves as part of this project. T Sheets show new Fire Rated sleeves by C1-5 or F1/2.

62 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the DDC system for this campus proprietary? If so, please confirm the manufacturer(s) allowed.

The existing BMS is proprietary Johnson Controls.

63 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the General Contractor of this project shall directly hire the Control System Integrator in a contract separate from the contract procuring the controls contractor.

The controls system integrator must be experienced with the current BMS control system. The controls contractor must be experienced with the VRF and CRAC unit control systems. Whether this is one contractor or two needs to be determined by the general contractor.

64 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the General Contractor of this project shall directly hire the Control System Integrator in a contract separate from the contract procuring the controls contractor.

The controls system integrator must be experienced with the current BMS control system. The controls contractor must be experienced with the VRF and CRAC unit control systems. Whether this is one contractor or two needs to be determined by the general contractor.

65 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm a new clean agent system is only required in MCR B-14. There is a note on the drawing but not specifically called out as new work.

Confirmed. See 01-F101a, new work notes 4 & 5.

The clean agent system is only required for the Main Computer Room.

66 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm MCR B-14 will require both a wet pipe and clean agent fire protection system required.

67 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Keynote #4: Provide new clean agent suppression system and #5 new VESDA System and releasing panel for clean agent suppression are called out on all “F” series drawings but those keynotes are not indicated on the new work plans. Please confirm.

Refer to Drawing 01-F101a for requirements. There is no requirement for a VESDA system.

68 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide the Geotechnical Report for this project.

This information is required to prepare our bid for the required duct bank excavation

See amendment 0003 for the information requested.

69 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if contaminated soils are encounter, a change order will be issued to the contractor to properly haul and dispose of contaminated soils.

See specification Earthwork Short Form 31 20 11 Section 3.2 Excavation – F.

70 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm who is responsible for the cost of additional excavation and import where unsuitable soils are found? Unsuitable soil locations should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis post contract award during construction.

Please base bid on information provided in the solicitation documents.

See specification Earthwork Short Form 31 20 11 Section 3.2 Excavation – F.

71 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please indicate the existing site conditions that are required to be demolished in order to install off the duct banks indicated in both the Civil and Telecom drawings.

The known utilities / site features to be demolished on the site for duct bank installation are shown on sheet

CD102.

All new duct bank locations are new penetrations through an existing wall.

72 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Spec Section 28 13 00 outlines the RCDD staff member shall provide consistent oversight of the project cabling throughout design, layout, installation, termination and testing. Please confirm what design is required on this project?

The design is complete. Per the spec, the RCDD The staff member shall provide consistent oversight of the project.

73 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the BAS system communication to be BacNet IP or BacNet MSTP

BACNET MSTP (Minimum 3 sCE 2200).

74 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Door numbers A-5 and E-135 do not appear on the door schedule on plan page AE-601. Please advise if these rooms are to receive new doors and if the door schedule will be updated.

These rooms are to receive new doors per Keynote one on each new work floor plan. The door schedule will be revised to include the details of these doors. The hardware set for these doors is to match that of the other Telecommunication Rooms (TR).

75 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 On Sheet 01-E602 the feeder for New EHRM Equip Panel is shown originating from ESB-A. Shouldn’t this feeder originate from the new 400A ATS?

Yes, the feeder for the New EHRM panel should originate from the new ATS #14.

76 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm that the emergency feed for the new 400A ATS will originate from the shared bussing in the existing ATS lineup. Do we need to provide overcurrent protection for the emergency feed like the existing ATS’s in the lineup?

Confirmed. The emergency feed for the new ATS will originate from the shared bussing in the existing line-up.

OCPD shall be provided.

77 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is it possible to get two additional weeks for responding to the RFP due to the size and complexity of the project?

Any extension to the closing date of the solicitation will be posted to SAM.GOV.

78 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the BAS system communication to be BacNet IP or BacNet MSTP ?

BACNET MSTP (Minimum 3 sCE 2200).

79 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the existing access control vendor? REF Note 2 – Plan page 01-TN-400.

The bidding contractor shall be a JCI Software House CCure certified dealer.

80 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Due to the instability in our current economy such as price escalations, procurement issues, and vendors unable to reasonably hold prices for more than 30 days, please change the contract type to a Fixed-Price with Economics Price Adjustments pursuant to FAR 16.203.

Please follow the solicitation requirement.

81 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Due to the instability in our current economy such as price escalations, procurement issues, and vendors unable to reasonably hold prices for more than 30 days, please reduce the price-hold period to 30 days.

Please follow solicitation requirements.

82 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can a single individual serve more than one of the following roles simultaneously: CQC Manager, SSHO, and Superintendent? If so, can a single individual perform all three? If only two, which roles may be combined?

SSHO must meet specification qualifications and solely perform SSHO duties. Please see solicitation specifications.

Site superintendent can also perform CQC system manager duties if they meet specification requirements for CQC systems manager.

83 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Division 08 Opening indicates 08 14 00 Wood Doors, The door schedule on AE601 Does not indicate any wood doors. Please advise direction.

No new wood doors on the project.

84 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Division 09 Finishes 96516 resilient sheet flooring none shown on finish schedule or finish legend, please advise direction.

This section addresses the match existing conditions where work may include matching material and finishes.

85 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO?

Superintendent cannot perform SSHO duties. Please see the solicitation specifications.

86 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project?

SSHO must comply with solicitation specifications.

87 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC?

Superintendent can also perform CQC systems manager duties if they meet solicitation specifications for CQC systems manager.

88 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

CQC systems manager duties must comply with solicitation specifications.

89 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC?

No. Please see solicitation specifications.

90 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal? Please follow solicitation requirements.

91 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide the latest wage determination for this project’s county.

Updates to DBA wage rates will be provided via an amendment.

92 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if the current prevailing wages will be consistent for the life of the project with no escalation?

DBA wage rates can be amended up to award if DOL updates DBA wage rates. Updates to DBA wage rates will be posted as a solicitation amendment.

93 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please identify the phasing plan that is expected. Please see general requirements specification 00 01 00 section 1.6.

94 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent?

Offeror will be required to comply with commission specifications provided in the solicitation.

95 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please advise how much time we should carry for initial safety training of employees working on site, badging, etc.

Also, is training good for the contract duration or will retraining be needed annually?

We will go over safety with Super/PM and expect the contractor to make sure the staff is properly trained. This will not take more than a Day.Badging, access, etc. will be discussed with the awarded contractor.

96 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the use of temporary plastic wall panels (such as STARC panels) acceptable to meet ICRA requirements?

No, default to framed partitions, refer to ICRA/PICRA requirements in the drawings and specifications. At the VA infection control officer sole discretion, alternate ICRA options may be evaluated and authorized on a case-by-case basis and by location.

97 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will shutdowns be required to be done during off hours or weekends?

Most likely. Telecom cutovers will require after hour and possibly weekend work.

98 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm if there is assumed asbestos that is to be removed?

Refer to demo plans for assumed materials to be abated.

99 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will telecommunication rooms, mechanical rooms, work areas, etc. be cleared of all stored items prior to the contractor entering those areas? Will it be the contractor's responsibility to relocate, store, and reinstall these items?

VA stored items such as filter, wire etc. will be removed by the VA.

100 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will a full-time fire watch be required during activities such as cutting, brazing, and welding? How long after such activities are completed?

Yes , we will issue a burn notice with the times listed .

Overnight is not require unless the fire suppression system in off for the project.

101 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Advise who is the particular vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Building Automation System or Temperature Controls System?

Johnson Controls.

102 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Advise who is the current telecommunications vendor serving the existing system?

None.

103 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Advise who is the current fire alarm vendor serving the existing system? What is the brand of the existing system?

As indicated on the drawings, the existing system is Siemens.

104 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Advise what is the specification of the existing telecommunications cabling? (manufacturer, cabling thickness, jacket details, etc.)

There is a mixture of Cat 6 and 5e cable throughout the campus. There may also be small amounts of Cat 6A and Cat 5.

105 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 To allow sufficient time to review responses and prepare our bid we kindly request that you please extend the bid date.

Any extensions to the solicitation will be posted to

SAM.GOV.

107 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If current security equipment lines/equipment are damaged/removed during construction, would that be considered part of this project to replace?

If the damage or removal of existing security equipment occurs as a direct result of construction activities within the defined scope of this project, then yes, it would be considered part of the project to replace or restore it.

108 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Would the department owner of the security systems be available to go over system availability and connections prior to project starting?

We do not understand what is meant by security systems and unable to answer this question at this time.

109 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can you supply information on existing panel capacity for Access, IDS and Video systems?

The contractor shall provide a new access control panel in each new TR and MCR room.

110 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If any security system capacity has been reached or would be reached in some areas, would mitigation be considered part of this project?

Yes.

111 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Based on initial design will changes in pathways be considered if it is found to be more advantageous to the security systems layout and possible be more cost effective?

Yes. Paths shown are from survey work while being escorted. If alternate routes are more advantageous or cost effective, they should be mentioned to the COR for approval. The COR may check with A/E to verify in some cases.

112 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can you provide a network map that indicates where that network is established?

We cannot provide a network map. All information acquired through survey is shown in the drawings.

113 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is all security equipment on a stand-alone LAN network?

If so, can you list the components of that network and available expansion.

We understand that only the Guest wireless network is on its own separate network. All other systems are on the VA equipment (possibly different VLANs)

114 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will any new switches need to be provided for this Bid? If so can you list the exact model and manufacture of switch needed.

No. The VA will provide all switches.

115 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Would a new video server be needed to support the additional cameras for this project?

Additional NVRs will be required to support new cameras.

116 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Would any additional video License be needed for the new cameras?

Contractor shall provide necessary licenses for new security cameras.

117 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If new licenses are needed, please provide what level of license they have existing (Enterprise, Standard)

Enterprise.

118 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will any additional license be needed to add new readers to the existing access control platform?

Include necessary licensing to add new readers to the existing CCure system.

119 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If new licenses are needed, please provide what level of license they have existing (Enterprise, Standard)

Enterprise.

120 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will any new network switches be required for any of the new security products?

Yes as needed.

121 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If they are required, can you supply the exact model number of the switches needed?

Juniper EX3200-24T.

122 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If they are required, can you supply the exact Location of the new switch/switches?

Existing location was provided in design documents.

123 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Where do the motions in each room terminate into. No IDS panel is listed on the prints and no Keypads to disarm upon opening the room?

Contractor to provide IDS panel in new MCR per sheet

01-TY100E.

IDS sensors, Keypad, and panel are required in the Main Computer Room.

124 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 What IDS panel is needed if not installed? Contractor to provide a new IDS panel in new MCR per sheet 01-TY100E. acceptable manufacturer is listed in sheet TY400.

125 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the Superintendent also be the Prime Contractor’s Commissioning Manager during commissioning?

Offeror will be required to comply with commissioning specifications provided in the solicitation.

126 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is any commissioning required on this project? Yes, Fire Sprinkler, HVAC, and Electrical. Refer to specification 01 91 00.

127 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is a full-time on-site quality control manager required for this project?

The offeror will be required to comply with solicitation requirements.

128 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the Superintendent also be the quality control manager?

Yes but they must meet specification requirements for CQC systems manager.

129 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is a full-time on-site Safety and Health Officer required for this project?

SSHO must comply with solicitation specifications.

130 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the Superintendent also be the site safety and Health Officer?

SSHO must only perform SSHO duties. Please see solicitation specifications.

131 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the Superintendent be Triple hatted as the SSHO and QC Manager?

No. Please see solicitation specifications.

132 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 As is typical for most VA projects can the QC plan be implemented by the onsite superintendent and administrated by the PM without additional staff (other than what is required for commissioning) as call for in 01 45 00.?

CQC systems manager must comply with the solicitation specifications.

135 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Which scopes of work will have to be performed after hours or weekends?

At least TR cutovers.

136 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will this project be done in phases? Yes.

137 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will each phase have to be fully completed before moving to the next or can some phases be completed simultaneously?

Phasing will depend on the work being performed and impact on operations.

138 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 How many areas will we be given at a time? The VA will work with the awarded contractor to be as productive as the hospital can withstand.

139 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Throughout the AE drawings there are several interior rooms receiving new work that are nowhere near an exterior window to vent the negative air outside, is there another means of venting air from the space to achieve the negative pressure required by ICRA?

This is to be coordinated with the COR and VA station in the field. GC to offer alternate solution to the VA. Falls under means and methods of construction . The VA will accept scrubbers In areas where this can not be completed. Per space approval by the COR.

140 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there any other openings we can use to vent our negative air to meet the ICRA requirements?

Refer to response 139 above The VA will accept scrubbers In areas where this cannot be completed. Per space approval by the COR.

141 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 In ICRA areas that require Category B Level 1 or 2, can we use zip-walls or plastic sheeting as containment?

Default to framed partitions. At the VA infection control officer sole discretion, alternate ICRA options may be evaluated and authorized on a case-by-case basis and by location.

142 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 In any ICRA areas that require above Category B containment, can plastic wall panels be used for the ICRA walls, such as STARC Panels or Temporary Wall System’s panels?

See response to 141 ABOVE.

143 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will temporary sprinklers be required during demolition or can we use Heat Detectors?

Yes, temporary sprinklers will be required and no you cannot use heat detectors.

144 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will the contractor be required to turn the existing sprinkler heads up during construction once the ceiling is removed?

Yes. See F001, demolition note 1.

145 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will we only be required to test and balance the HVAC system in the rooms that are shown in the Mechanical Drawings?

The only HVAC test and balance work is for the rooms shown on the Mechanical Drawings.

146 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the existing HVAC system in Bldg. 1 a VRF system? If not, what is the existing HVAC system?

No – single duct VAV with reheat.

147 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the existing HVAC system in Bldg. 3 a VRF system? If not, what is the existing HVAC system?

No – single duct VAV with reheat.

148 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the existing HVAC system in Bldg. 5 a VRF system? If not, what is the existing HVAC system?

No – single duct VAV with reheat.

149 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the existing HVAC system in Bldg. 6 a VRF system? If not, what is the existing HVAC system?

No – single duct VAV with reheat.

150 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is the existing HVAC system in Bldg. 7 a VRF system? If not, what is the existing HVAC system?

No – single duct VAV with reheat.

151 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Are the new Roof Top ACCU condensing units mounted on a curb or a poured concrete slab? Please provide a detail?

Provide a concrete housekeeping pad.

152 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 How are the condensate pumps mounted, please provide a detail?

Provide a Little Giant VCMA pump, or similar. Mount the pump to the wall per the installation instructions.

153 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current HVAC Controls? Johnson Controls.

154 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current HVAC Controls?

Johnson Controls.

155 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current Building Automation System?

Johnson Controls.

156 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current Building Automation System?

Johnson Controls.

157 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current Nurse Call system. Raulands.

158 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current Nurse Call System

Soundcom.

159 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current Fire Alarm system As indicated on the drawings, the existing system is Siemens.

160 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current Fire Alarm System

Siemens.

161 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current Security and Access Control system?

Manufacturers are listed in division 28 specs.

162 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current Security and Access Control System?

Security101.

163 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current CCTV system? Manufacturers are listed in division 28 specs.

164 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current CCTV System?

GlobalSector.

165 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the manufacturer of the current Telecommunications system?

Switches by Cisco.

166 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a contact for who services the current Telecommunications System?

None.

167 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 On Sheet T-000 it indicates that temperature monitoring devices, equipment, cabling, and terminations will all be owner furnished/owner installed. However, Remark 3 states to provide temperature and humidity monitoring for telecommunication rooms utilizing the Chatsworth 14665……etc. Please clarify who is responsible for providing the temperature and humidity monitoring?

The Chatsworth PDU has the ability to integrate a temperature monitoring device into it. I have been told that the Split Systems in TRs will provide the monitoring of the room to the BAS system. Johnson Controls to the BAS System.

168 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the VA provide the latest Asbestos/Hazardous Materials reports for the areas that will require abatement?

See amendment 0003 for information requested.

169 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Who is the existing signage contractor for this VA? Creative.

170 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will the contractor be responsible for any permits? Any that are needed will be on the contractor.

171 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please provide a specification for Fire Sprinkler? All necessary information is on the Drawings.

172 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 When removing or replacing wall mounted low voltage item, will the wall have to be trenched open to remove existing conduit or can the existing conduit be abandon in place?

Abandoned conduit and back boxes do not need to be removed from the wall. Place a blank cover plate over the back box.

173 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the VA provide reflected ceiling plans for all of the areas that will require new ceiling mounted devices and jacks?

Please refer to drawings.

174 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will the VA have each area cleared out before the contractor begins construction?

No, the contractor will work with the VA on phasing.

175 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will the contractor be required to move any of the existing furniture or equipment?

Yes depending on furniture and equipment. Propose as little movement as needed.

176 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 If the contractor is responsible for moving the existing furniture, will storage be available from the VA for the furniture, equipment, or casework?

Rooms will be handled on a per-based case. We will not be able to vacate large sections of the hospital.

177 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Note 9 in the General Demolition Notes on the AE drawing sheets states that the contractor is responsible for providing all concrete slab demolition and replacement. It is the AE’s responsibility to show on the plans where this demo and replacement will need to occur. Please confirm that all concrete slab demolition and replacement that is required is shown as such on the plans?

This is a general demolition note regarding how to treat existing concrete affected by the scope of work in this project. The note states to reference consultants and architectural drawings for the extent of any patch/fill work.

178 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 On sheet AE-700a all of the rooms that are white with no color or grid, are these rooms with no ceiling or are they meant to be shaded gray to match the legend indicating they have gypsum board ceilings?

Rooms without a ceiling pattern shown on this RCP sheet indicate that we were not able to verify the existing ceiling in these spaces during design. GC shall assume GWB ceiling but field verify existing information on site as needed.

179 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 In the rooms that receive Applied Fireproofing for the ceiling finish, will this need to be painted over?

No applied fireproofing shall be painted over.

180 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 UL-N759 does not specify what thickness is required for the applied fireproofing. Please provide the thickness required for FP-01 in the finish schedule?

Thicknesses of spray applied fire proofing are given for UL-N759 on sheet GI-008

181 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Is there any reason to believe the slab has moisture in it and moisture remediation will be needed?

Each condition shall be field verified and tested. Bidder to assume that a certain percentage may need remediation.

182 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Have other areas on this floor needed moisture remediation on the concrete slab in past projects?

None that we are aware of

183 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Per spec 09 05 16 Section 3.3.A specifies the use of a moisture remediation coating only when the results of ASTM F2170 relative humidity testing exceed the requirements of the flooring manufacturer. Similarly, pH and moisture testing are outlined in Section 3.2.G–H. Can you confirm that moisture remediation coatings, pH neutralization treatments, or other corrective measures included in this specification are only required if slab test results are unsatisfactory?

Confirmed.

184 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Specification Section 09 05 16 includes detailed descriptions and product requirements for both moisture remediation systems (Section 2.1) and underlayments (Section 2.2), yet it is unclear whether these items are part of the base bid or only applicable if testing shows deficiencies. Please clarify is the intent that all floor slab testing is to be included in the base bid, and any required remedial treatment (e.g., moisture remediation coating or underlayment) would be added by change order/modification if needed, based on test results?

Refer to responses made to182 and 183.

185 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 The specification 09 05 16 calls out multiple tests (ASTM F1869, F2170, and pH testing) but does not state how to price the remedial work that may or may not be required depending on the test results. How should bidders price the moisture remediation system and underlayment if slab conditions are unknown at bid time? Would the Government prefer allowance pricing, unit pricing, or a change order approach for conditions identified post-award through testing?

Refer to response made to 181 and 183. This will be a firmed fixed price contract. Bidders should base their price on solicitation requirements posted to SAM.GOV.

185 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Without knowing the actual moisture or pH conditions of the concrete prior to bid, there is significant risk in trying to price products like moisture remediation coatings (epoxy vapor barriers, etc.), cementitious self-leveling underlayment, or trowel-applied patches. Including these without confirmation could lead to either inflated pricing or post-award cost disputes. Thus, under FAR principles of clarity in solicitation documents and equitable risk distribution please provide clear direction on what is to be included in our base bid for subsurface preparation.

Refer to response made to 181 and 183. This will be a firmed fixed price contract. Bidders should base their price on solicitation requirements posted to SAM.GOV.

186 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will the contractor be responsible for locating existing underground cabling?

We are not aware of any “underground cabling” that needs to be located.

187 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will alternate methods of erosion control be acceptable? Yes. See Erosion Control notes on drawing CG101.

188 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Will you send out the site visit sign in sheet? Sign-in sheet was posted via SAM.gov (Amendment 001).

189 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Please confirm the contractor has to include an electronic bid bond in their proposal and does not have to mail the original bid bond?

Only the electronic Bid Bond is required. Please see solicitation requirements.

190 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can the bid date for the project be extended to provide more time for contractors?

Any extensions to the closing date will be posted to

SAM.GOV.

191 07-15-2025 07-31-2025 Can a second round of RFIs be submitted once the initial RFI answers are provided as usually these answers call for more clarifications in most cases?

Please see solicitation for guidance on responding to RFIs.

192 07-09-2025 07-31-2025 Is there a video surveillance/access control component to this project?

Yes. Please review solicitation documents.

193 07-09-2025 07-31-2025 Are there addendums to the most recent bid documents? Any addendums to bid documents will be posted to

SAM.GOV.

194 07-09-2025 07-31-2025 Will there be a site walk. Site Visit was conducted on 07/09/2025 @ 1:00 PM CT.

196 07-09-2025 07-31-2025 Are you accepting approved equals on this project? Not for items listed in the sole source justification provided in amendment 0003.

197 07-09-2025 07-31-2025 I am unsure what is required of the contractor regarding the extent of the ICRA partitions. On Sheet 01-GC106 as well as other sheets, it states "Provide temporary/permanent ICRA barriers as conceptually as indicated on the plans" .