0004 - 596-22-700 Responses to Tech Questions - 8-19-25.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND SOLICITATION #: 36C77625B0040

RESPONSES TRACKING SHEET PROJECT TITLE: Lexington-Leestown EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades Construction

# CONTRACTOR QUESTION VA RESPONSE

1 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 contract with economic price adjustment pursuant to FAR 16.203.

In accordance with FAR 16.202 and 52.216-1, this requirement will remain a firm-fixed-price contract.

2 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.

The Government standard concerning price-hold period is 90 calendar days and will not be altered.

3 Please confirm that any designers or consultants who provided professional services for the construction documents, including reports, are precluded from pursuing this project as a Prime contractor, Mentor- Protégé partner, or subcontractor.

No member of the design team of this project is permitted to be part of the construction team.

4 Please confirm that this project is a competitive SDVOSB set-aside and that any bonding provided by a contractor must be through a SDVOSB or SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé partnership under the SBA/VA Mentor-Protégé program in which the partnership has been approved prior to the due date.

This project is set aside for SDVOSBs. The bonding requirements must be met for this project per the applicable clauses, provisions, and instructions to offerors.

5 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 or a payment & performance bond for a

SDVOSB.

This project is set aside for SDVOSBs. The bonding requirements must be met for this project per the applicable clauses, provisions, and instructions to offerors.

6 When visiting the link, I noticed the project was “set aside for Service- Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business” – does this mean that General Contractors cannot bid the project unless they meet that requirement?

Yes, this project is a 100% set-aside for SDVOSBs. The prime contractor submitting the offer must be certified as such in the SBA certification database or comply with the joint venture certification requirements in 13 CFR 128.402.

7 The RFP section 2.3 states: “This procurement is a 100% set-aside for SDVOSB concerns. Offers received from other than SDVOSBs will not be considered. All SDVOSBs must be listed as “certified” in the SBA’s VetCert database (Veteran Small Business Certification (sba.gov)) and/or Dynamic Small Business Search databased (https://dsbs.sba.gov/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm) at the time of bid submission and at time of award. Failure to be certified at the time of bid submission and at the time of award will result in the offeror’s bid being non-responsive.” Our bidding entity is a joint venture that was established under the SBA’s Mentor Protégé Program. The managing member (Protégé) of the JV is certified and listed in the SBA’s VetCert database.

However, the SBA no longer certifies VOSB or SDVOSB joint ventures, per 13 CFR 128.402(a) which states: “A certified VOSB or SDVOSB may enter into a joint venture agreement with one or more other small business concerns, or with an approved mentor authorized by §

125.9 of this chapter, for the purpose of submitting an offer for a VOSB or SDVOSB contract. SBA does not certify VOSB or SDVOSB joint ventures, but the joint venture should be designated as a VOSB or SDVOSB joint venture in SAM with the VOSB or SDVOSB-certified joint venture partner identified. Where this section references the requirements of a VOSB or SDVOSB joint venture partner, the VOSB or SDVOSB status of that joint venture partner must correspond with the type of award (e.g., to be eligible for a SDVOSB contract, a SDVOSB joint venture partner must be the managing venturer of the joint venture)”.

Please revise the RFP language to conform with the current applicable CFR or clarify that a Joint Venture offeror is not required to be listed as “certified” in the SBA’s Vet Cert database since the SBA no longer certifies SDVOSB joint ventures. Only the SDVOSB managing member of the JV offeror is required to be listed as “certified” in the VetCert database.

Per our conversations with the SBA, they advise Contracting Officers to reach out to Certifications@SBA.gov with any questions regarding the SDVOSB self-certification in SAM for joint ventures.

This is incorrect. The relevant sections of the solicitation are copied below and conform with the current CFR. Section 2.9 has been updated to reflect the change implemented with this amendment.

2.3 SDVOSB SET-ASIDE

This procurement is a 100% set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran- Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) concerns. A joint venture may be considered eligible as an SDVOSB if the joint venture complies with the requirements in 13 CFR 128.402.

2.9 SDVOSB CERTIFICATION

To be considered eligible to receive award of a resulting contract, offerors must be certified as SDVOSBs by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and listed in the SBA certification database at the time of bid submission and at time of award. Offers received from entities that are not certified SDVOSBs will not be considered. Failure to be certified at the time of bid submission and at time of award will result in the offer being deemed nonresponsive.

https://dsbs.sba.gov/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm mailto:Certifications@SBA.gov

8 We are a local Kentucky architectural and engineering firm located in Lexington with satellite offices around the state.

I wanted to ask if we were able to receive an RFP for KBC Special Inspections, Construction Materials Testing, or Construction Staking?

This construction contract will be awarded in whole to a prime contractor who will coordinate their own subs. We do not issue separate solicitations for different portions of the work, and we will not consider offers for individual products or services. Additionally, the designer of record is contracted for construction period services and commissioning during the construction and acceptance/testing phases of this project.

9 Work required in the contract documents includes spaces in nearly every part of the facility, in multiple buildings. In order to complete the work in a timely manner, large amounts of conduit, cabling, connections, equipment, and other components needed to complete the work will need to be procured and stored on-site prior to beginning the work. VA please confirm that adequate contractor storage will be provided by the VA on the existing campus for these materials.

No inside storage will be granted to contractor from VA. Contractor to store all materials in Conex in the contractor staging area.

10 Due to the work timeline, construction materials will need to be procured prior to installation and stored for an extended amount of time. Will the VA pay the contractor for procured and/or stored materials?

In accordance with contract terms and conditions, Contractors should not submit an offer assuming the Government will approve monthly progress payments for material and/or equipment procured by the Contractor and stored on the construction site, as space is available, or at a local approved location off the site. Payment of stored materials and/or equipment is at the Contracting Officer’s discretion and will be handled on a case-by-case basis during the contract and under such terms and conditions as the Contracting Officer approves. Routine construction materials are not likely to be approved for stored material payments (wood, metals, fiber cables, wires, piping etc…). Items that are unusually long lead that must be procured far in advance to ensure their availability during construction and custom fabricated major components may be considered, however that decision will remain with the Contracting Officer. Stored material payments are not a method to finance the contract, contractors shall be financially fit enough to perform the contract’s requirements.

11 Is this project tax-exempt, and will the CO/COR provide the necessary tax-exempt certificates?

No. See Special Note regarding FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation. It is solely the responsibility of the offeror to include all state and local sales or use taxes for construction materials, and all other applicable taxes, in their bid price.

12 Will the sign-in sheet from site visit be available in addendum? The site visit sign-in sheet was already provided with amendment 0001 on 7/10/25.

13 Given that the site visit just occurred Tuesday 7/8/25 and given the complexity of this project with nearly 260 drawings and over 1500 pages of specs, we respectfully request additional time for us and our subcontractors to read through all the bid documents and generate quality RFI’s. Please extend the RFI deadline to at least July 25, 2025.

The RFI deadline will not be extended. The VA will try to answer any late or follow-up questions received but cannot guarantee responses will be provided.

14 To allow sufficient time to review responses and prepare our bid we kindly request that you please extend the bid date.

The bid due date has been extended.

15 For planning the preliminary project schedule, please provide an anticipated award date.

Since the solicitation has not closed yet and we do not know the bid results, we are unsure of a specific award date. We intend to award as soon as we can after bid opening.

16 What is the approximate duration between issuing the award and issuing the NTP?

NTP will be issued at the Government’s convenience IAW bona-fide need requirements and after all required bonds and insurance have been received from the contractor. Approximate dates may differ, but typically the Government strives to issue the NTP as soon as possible after award.

17 Please provide the latest wage determination for this project’s county. Wage determinations will be checked regularly during the solicitation period and updated as needed.

18 Please confirm if the current prevailing wages will be consistent for the life of the project with no escalation?

Any requests for adjustments to contract price as a result of changes in wage rate determinations will be made IAW FAR and FAR supplement requirements.

19 Specs 01 00 00 – General Requirements; Phasing Notes GI010 Will the VA be responsible for moving, removing, and reinstalling any existing VA-owned furniture, equipment, or loose furnishings in areas impacted by construction work under this contract?

The VA will move, remove, or reinstall any VA owned furniture if the GC provides a three-week notice before needing it moved, removed, etc.

20 Will mechanical rooms, work areas, etc. be cleared of all stored debris prior to the contractor entering those areas?

Contractor will have to provide a three-week notice for rooms they will be working in so that VA can move items.

21 It appears the cardboard baler in Bldg 12 will obstruct the new walls to be bult in Bldg 12. Please confirm if the baler will need to be relocated to accommodate new walls. If the baler needs to be relocated will the VA move it?

Contractor will be responsible for moving the baler.

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

Yes.

23 Will the owner accept the “Primavera P6” for schedule submission and monthly updates?

The facility prefers the GC to use Microsoft Project.

24 Multiple system specifications call for submittals to be submitted to the GOV using AutoCAD software. VA please confirm that existing as-builts and current design drawings are available in AutoCAD format for use in the submittal process.

The VA will not provide any as-builts in ACAD format. Current design drawings will be available from the design team in ACAD Format.

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

No.

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

No testing will be required while contractors work at the Leestown Campus.

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

Spec section 01 33 23, 1.10 VA Review of Submittals and RFIs, paragraph E. should read: VA review period is 14 calendar days for RFIs.

28 How many calendar days should be included in the critical-path method schedule for owner and A/E submittal review?

Spec section 01 33 23, 1.10 VA Review of Submittals and RFIs, paragraph D. should read: VA review period is 21 calendar days for submittals.

29 How long after award will the Government provide the submittal register? The VA does not provide the submittal register. Submittal register to be provided to VA from GC.

30 Please confirm that the project scope will be completed during normal working hours, not nights and weekends. If certain scopes require off-hours work, please clarify what work this applies to and how it should be included in the base bid.

This is determined by the GC.

31 Will shutdowns be required to be done during off hours or weekends? Shutdowns must happen at times with minimal disruption to the medical facility. GC to coordinate times for these.

32 How many site visits do owner consultants have for MEP and systems coordination with GC, and will the Owner have a designated MEP representative available on site?

The VA has adequate AE site visits during this project. The VA has minimal MEP representatives available during this project.

33 Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent? VA is responsible.

34 Please confirm that the Owner will contract directly with a third-party Commissioning Agent, and that the Contractor’s responsibility is limited to participation and coordination with the Cx Agent as outlined in Section 01 91 00 and applicable technical sections.

VA will attain third-party Cx Agent.

35 Please confirm whether the VA will provide designated on-campus parking spaces for the Contractor’s superintendent and staff. If so, please clarify location, quantity, and any restrictions. If not, please confirm where contractor parking will be permitted and if offsite parking is required.

Contractors will be able to park on site in the contractor staging area located in the rear of the campus.

36 Can the contractor use an existing office inside the building for a temporary construction office during construction instead of setting up a temporary trailer?

No inside office space will be available for GC.

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

Yes; however, if they are left dirty from contractors, GC will have to provide outside temporary toilets. For all outside work, VA prefers the contractors use temporary outside facilities.

38 Can the contractor use the existing on-site utilities for temporary electrical and water free of charge?

Use of VA utilities are in the specifications.

39 Please confirm whether the Contractor may use existing service and/or public elevators for construction activities, including material delivery, debris removal, and equipment transport. If so, please clarify any time constraints, cleaning requirements, weight/load restrictions, and whether VA staff must be present to operate or escort elevator use.

Contractor may use VA elevators provided they leave them in a clean state after use.

40 Please confirm whether the VA will provide a qualified fire watch during any period that the fire suppression and/or fire alarm systems are out of service due to construction activities. If not, please confirm that the contractor must include costs for providing an approved fire watch in such circumstances.

VA will not provide a fire watch at any time for the GC.

41 Will a full-time fire watch be required during activities such as cutting and welding? How long after such activities are completed?

Yes. Fire watch shall be for minimum 30 minutes after hot work.

42 Who is responsible for all coordination drawings if required? Who will act as the “Gate Keeper”

GC is responsible for all coordination drawings.

43 Will it be the responsibility of the mechanical contractor to lead the coordination process?

Yes.

44 Will the mechanical contractor be responsible for clash detection and reporting during the coordination process?

Yes.

45 We have been reviewing the bid documents for the above project and have a couple of initial questions, particularly as they relate to video security and access control as we understand the initial specifications are related to an older system that is looking at being upgraded.

For both systems - can you open the specifications to be non-proprietary to ensure that they would work for any system in the future, and not just conformant to the brand-name justification listed in the bid PDF #17?

Video Security:

• To ensure cameras will work with current and future systems, would you be open to specifying an ONVIF conformant camera?

Access Control:

• To ensure card readers will work with current and future systems along with higher-end security levels that have been developed, would you be open to specifying that card reader and related hardware be non-proprietary, and multi-technology conformant with standard proximity cards and DESFire EV3 standards?

• What current credential type(s) are you using?

Current cameras are Illustra brand and are compatible with the new cameras the medical center is upgrading to. PIV Card Readers are Smarthouse brand.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The VA has many different brands of camera systems on campus. All new cameras to be PTZ cameras.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The VA has many different brands of Access systems on campus. See previous.

48 Who is the vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Building Automation System or Temperature Controls System?

JCI

49 Who is the vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Telecommunications System?

VA

50 Who is the vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Fire Alarm System?

Allied Communications/Federal Fire

51 Existing Fire Alarm System.

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

Allied Communications/Federal Fire

52 Existing Nurse Call System.

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

Standard Communications.

53 Specs 28 31 00; 27 13 23; Fire Alarm Drawings FA001 Please provide names of service contractors for systems: fire alarm, sprinkler, elevator.

Fire Alarm: Allied Communications/Federal Fire Sprinkler: Federal Fire Elevator: Murphy

54 Specs 27 & 28 Divisions Are there specific manufacturers required for integration with existing systems?

Division 27, No manufacturers required.

Division 28, See previous response for safety and security manufacturers. All safety and security equipment must be FIPS compliant.

55 Could you please specify a safety & security film and anchoring system? I am unaware of any film on the market that has a timed testing for intrusion resistance.

Refer to 12/AE601, Typ. Window Cover Detail. Keynote 8.99: use 3M S140 as the basis of design. There are no window films currently on the market that utilize the standard testing for 15 minute forced entry resistance, but this product will satisfy the physical security requirements.

56 The VA Physical Security & Resiliency Design Manual (Attached-revised May 2024) requires a 7 mil film with anchoring system. I am attaching the 3M Ultra 800 & IPA anchoring spec sheets for your review and approval. I am also attaching 3M blast mitigation GSA rating sheet (see page 9) for your review. We have installed Ultra800 with IPA anchoring in multiple schools and federal leased spaces. I have attached a picture of the finished product for reference.

Ultra S800 -Specifications-May20

3M Safety and Security Film Specs Bl

VA Ballistics manual 2024.pdf

Impact Protection Adhesive specs.pdf

For bidding purposes, follow what is specified in the design.

Substitutions can be requested and reviewed post bid.

57 I would like to know if there will be another walk through scheduled. The sizes of the windows are not listed on the plans and need to be accurately measured.

No, another walkthrough will not be scheduled.

58 During the site visit we could not get into room 102 in Bldg 4. Please provide photos of this TR room.

See attached file 0004 - 596-22-700 TR Photos - Question 58.

59 Drawing M601 has the Mini Splits schedule, BOD listed as LG Electronics which is made in South Korea. Will LG Electronics be an approved Buy America for our submittal? All of the or/equals are from Japan.

Correct. There is not an equivalent system for ductless mini splits that is made in America. Submit offers IAW the Buy American requirements in FAR 52.225-12. Per FAR 52.225-11, the Republic of Korea as a designated country and the Buy American restrictions are waived for designated country construction materials.

60 Plan 1/GI002 shows negative air machines ducted to a window. However, this project affects so many rooms which are not near a window or even an exterior wall. Is it acceptable to vent negative air machines into the corridors if the exhaust air is hepa filtered and monitored at the outlet?

Reference General ICRA Notes on GI002. Must be ducted to the outside unless a waiver is granted by the VA.

61 Is Fiber Optic cabling between head end equipment required to be 100% in conduit?

All fiber optic cable shall be protected in conduit when run outside of cable trays outside of Communication Rooms.

62 Will the VA or the Contractor make final terminations in the TR and MCR? Contractor will provide final terminations.

63 Are escorts required for all work in existing TR and MCR? Contractor to have Tier I background investigation for all escorts and access into TR Rooms during construction.

64 Are escorts required during terminations within new TR and MCR? Yes.

65 Specs 01 00 00; Div. 27 Please clarify VA escort requirements for work in multiple TR rooms and floors.

See response to question #63.

66 Specs 01 00 00 Will contractor be allowed to provide cleared staff for escorting if VA staff not available?

See response to question #63.

67 Will the VA or the contractor move switches to new TR and MCR? Contractor will move switches.

68 Sheet GS001 shows new UG communications. Is this new UG telecom in existing UG conduit or is new UG conduit needed?

New conduit underground duct banks/conduit is depicted as the blue lines as shown on the plans and detailed on sheets GS009 through GS011. Coordinated with telecom plans for new underground communication within tramways and existing conduit.

69 There are many notes denoting new innerducts to be within Tramway. Will the new innerducts be installed in existing tramways?

Innerducts may be installed in existing tramways. Tramways may be overfilled on a temporary basis when installing new cable before demolition of existing cable.

70 General notes on the Hazardous drawings such as HA000 state that various floor tiles and mastic, along with pipe insulation, fittings, and other finishes throughout the work area(s) are known and/or presumed to be ACM and should be protected as necessary. The note further states that if impact to the materials cannot be avoided, asbestos abatement will be necessary and should be abated by a licensed asbestos abatement contractor. If additional ACM is discovered in other locations or areas of work that is not clearly identified within the contract documents, will the VA consider this a differing site condition and issue a contract modification to the contractor for the additional abatement required?

Any work that must be performed that is determined to be outside of the contract’s requirements shall be remedied with appropriate modification to the contract. This may be considered an unforeseen site condition. However, the Government will rely on the plain language of the contract to determine if it is included already. The contractor must take all necessary steps to ensure they account for all affected areas the contract identifies or establishes. No modification will be issued for work determined to be already within the contract requirements.

71 Drawing Sheet HA011, A1 Note calls out existing mastic on fiberglass lines and fittings that contain ACM and that any work impacting the existing ACM should be performed by a licensed abatement contractor.

Mechanical drawing Sheet M-401 indicates work for this space but does not provide quantity for piping and fittings, etc. VA please provide a quantification for the potential ACM piping and fittings that are included in this work area. This condition occurs in multiple areas within the project limits, including other materials like existing ceiling tile mastic and duct mastic on the roof of building 4. VA please provide quantifications and other locations where similar conditions exist so that bidders can provide accurate pricing for this work.

See revised drawing sheet HA011 in attached file 0004 - 596-22-700 Drawings 01_Environmental Revisions.

72 General Demolition Note 6 on multiple Architectural drawings requires the contractor to verify that new mechanical systems can be installed in existing spaces…and maintain existing ceiling height. Can the VA provide existing ceiling height measurements as well as existing structure height measurements to ascertain the new mechanical equipment will fit between the existing structure and existing ceiling height? If the VA cannot provide this information, it would be nearly impossible to verify this measurement without a site visit to confirm existing conditions above the ceilings in all work areas within all buildings prior to bidding. If it is discovered that new mechanical equipment cannot be installed between the existing ceiling and structure above, how is the contractor to proceed?

The only area with new ductwork is in the MCR. The ceiling is exposed to the structure above. Refer to AE108 (RCP) and AE201 (Interior Elevation). Observed height to structure above is shown on both of these drawings. If it is discovered by the contractor that the ductwork cannot be suspended from the structure at the proposed height due to varying bottom of structure heights discovered after demolishing the existing ceiling, the AE can provide further instruction.

73 General Plan Note 3 on Drawing Sheet AE101calls for “all walls in TR to go to deck. If existing wall does not currently go to deck, contractor to extend wall system up to existing structure above prior to caulking.

Maintain existing fire rating.” Given that there is no information provided as to which walls do not go to deck and wall types of these walls that do not go to deck, it is nearly impossible to accurately bid this work. For bidding purposes can we assume all existing walls extend to deck and any found that do not can be addressed with a change order?

If this is not acceptable please provide location and wall type details of every wall which does not currently extend to deck and will need to be extended.

Correct, any TR walls that are discovered by the contractor to not go up to deck should be brought to the attention of the VA and AE. Any walls required to be extended to the bottom of deck will be included via change order.

74 General Reflected Ceiling Plan Note 5 on Sheet AE101 call for “existing fire sprinklers in new/expanded TRs to be replaced with new upright sprinklers…” VA provided FX drawings indicate this work, but do not clearly indicate number of sprinkler heads to be removed or replaced per location. VA please provide a proposed quantity for the existing sprinkler heads to be replaced so that an accurate price can be included in the bid proposal for this work.

Provide the necessary quantity of sprinklers to meet code compliant coverage by the applicable criteria for the spaces. NFPA 13 provides maximum coverage for sprinklers. A quick take off of sprinklers includes approximately 83 in the scope of work.

75 Will the VA provide flow test calcs for delegated sprinkler design or will the contractor need to perform these tests?

Contractor to provide.

76 Keynote 2.80 found on multiple drawings calls for the existing flooring and base to be demolished and prepare existing sub-floor surface for new flooring. New flooring types for each location appear in the Room Finish Schedule found on sheet AF711, but it is not clear what type(s) of flooring are existing to be removed. VA please provide floor type to be removed for each location as applicable so that accurate pricing can be provided for the bid.

Keynote 2.80 - The existing flooring is VCT. Note: Keynote 2.22 has the same keynote verbiage, so the same can be said for this keynote.

The only areas that differ are rooms 24-17, 22-17, and 23-17 which have carpet.

77 Electronic Security System Keynote 2 found on drawing sheet TY401 states if an “existing camera is damaged or inoperable, contractor to provide new fixed, motion activated camera compatible with existing VA campus surveillance system…” VA please provide a quantity of new cameras to be replaced for quantification and bidding purposes.

VA please also provide proposed manufacturer and model number of new cameras so that bidders can provide an accurate price for the new cameras in the bid proposal.

Bid for five new PTZ cameras. Brand and type in previous response.

78 Detail 1 on sheet T-302 shows sleeves in floor for TRs above and below on the demo plan. It is not clear if these sleeves are penetrating existing holes in the floor/ceiling. VA please confirm these sleeves are existing and floor coring is NOT required for this work area.

Sleeves shown are existing and may be used. Sleeves may be overfilled on a temporary basis when installing new cable before demolition of existing cable.

79 Detail 10 on sheet M-401, notes 22 and 23 reference floor penetrations for condensate drain piping, to refer to Architectural drawings for additional information. Architectural sheet AE102 does not clearly identify floor penetrations for this work area. VA please provide location, quantity, and size of floor penetrations for the condensate drain piping referenced on sheet M-401.

Refer to Detail 5/AE601 for floor penetrations. All penetrations are noted and can be quantified. Size of floor penetration depends on piping size which can vary based on manufacturer recommended sizes for their equipment.

80 Detail 8 on sheet M-402, notes 22 and 23 reference floor penetrations for condensate drain piping, to refer to Architectural drawings for additional information. Architectural sheet AE103 does not clearly identify floor penetrations for this work area. VA please provide location, quantity, and size of floor penetrations for the condensate drain piping referenced on sheet M-402.

Refer to Detail 5/AE601 for floor penetrations. All penetrations are noted and can be quantified. Size of floor penetration depends on piping size which can vary based on manufacturer recommended sizes for their equipment.

81 Detail 4 on sheet M-403, notes 22 and 23 reference floor penetrations for condensate drain piping, to refer to Architectural drawings for additional information. Architectural sheet AE105 does not clearly identify floor penetrations for this work area. VA please provide location, quantity, and size of floor penetrations for the condensate drain piping referenced on sheet M-403. This discrepancy appears to occur in multiple areas where it is not clearly called out if new floor penetrations are needed for new condensate drain lines. VA please provide clarifications for work required at each location where new floor penetrations are required. Locations, sizes, and quantities for this work is critical as the location(s) could have impact on ICRA measures for each penetration, depending on location.

Having this information during bidding will allow offerors the opportunity to provide accurate pricing for the work required in this bid proposal.

Refer to Detail 5/AE601 for floor penetrations. All penetrations are noted and can be quantified. Size of floor penetration depends on piping size which can vary based on manufacturer recommended sizes for their equipment.

82 There does not appear to be an enlarged floor plan showing new Mechanical Work for B16 Ground Level-6B-16. It appears this room is being converted into a new closet from an existing Comm room. VA please confirm that no mechanical work is scheduled for this space.

A/E confirms no mechanical work is anticipated for B16 6B-16.

Telecom equipment to be removed and space function will be a closet.

Existing systems to be reused.

83 There does not appear to be an enlarged floor plan showing new Mechanical Work for B12 Level 1-6-12. It appears this room only receives a new security cage, gate, card readers, etc. VA please confirm that no mechanical work is scheduled for this space.

A/E confirms no mechanical work is anticipated for Building 12 for the new Telecom enclosure. Existing systems to remain.

84 There does not appear to be an enlarged floor plan showing new Mechanical Work for B16 Level 2-222A. It appears this room is being converted into a new closet from an existing Comm room. VA please confirm that no mechanical work is scheduled for this space.

A/E confirms no mechanical work is anticipated for B16 222A-16.

Telecom equipment to be removed and space function will be a closet.

Existing systems to be reused.

85 Drawing Sheet AE105, detail 8 references detail 12/AE601regarding window protection. Sheet AE601, keyed note 8.99 requires the window to receive new contact sensors to be tied into the existing security system.

Drawing Sheet TY405, detail 6 for the same room does not show a new window contact sensor. VA please confirm if a new window contact sensor is required in this location.

Provide contact sensors as needed, REF: Security Drawings.

86 Drawing Sheet AE105, detail 2 references detail 12/AE601regarding window protection. Sheet AE601, keyed note 8.99 requires the window to receive new contact sensors to be tied into the existing security system.

Drawing Sheet TY405, detail 2 for the same room does not show a new window contact sensor. VA please confirm if a new window contact sensor is required in this location. This discrepancy appears to occur in multiple areas where it is not clearly called out if new window contact sensors are required in similar locations. VA please provide clarifications for work required at each location and where new window contact sensors are required. Having this information during bidding will allow offerors the opportunity to provide accurate pricing for the work required in this bid proposal.

Provide contact sensors as needed, REF: Security Drawings.

87 Drawing AE106, details 5 and 6 show a hatch to indicate the North Walls of the space to have a fire rating, but the west wall with doors 13B-17 and 13C-17 do not have this indication. VA please confirm if the west wall is fire rated or not. If the walls in question are fire rated, please confirm that doors 13B-17 and 13C-17 should also be changed to have a fire rating to match the walls.

Refer to reference plans to see existing ratings in walls. Refer to door schedule and hardware schedule in specs for required ratings. These doors are not slated to be rated as they do not exist within rated walls.

Contractor to confirm wall rating on site and notify AE of any conflicts with the plans.

88 Drawing Sheet M-403, detail 5, Keyed note D5 indicates to remove existing mechanical ducts and grilles back to the nearest branch/main and cap. No information is given for the location, distance, size, or quantity of the mechanical components that are to be removed as part of this work.

This work would be nearly impossible to price without additional information. VA please provide length, size, location, and limits of demolition for the existing ducts and grilles that are to be removed as part of this project.

There were no mechanical components observed in the space or above the ceiling. The keynote is there to inform the contractor that upon discovery of any mechanical ducts in this space, the contractor must remove them before construction of the new Telecom Room.

89 Drawing Sheet T309, detail 4, has a note that call out “sleeves to hall” through the existing wall to the south. VA please confirm the height for the new sleeve and existing wall type for this wall so that accurate pricing can be provided for this work. This discrepancy appears to occur in multiple areas where sleeves are called out, but no height or wall type is provided.

VA please provide clarifications for work required at each location and where new wall sleeves are required. Having this information during bidding will allow offerors the opportunity to provide accurate pricing for the work required in this bid proposal.

Sleeves shown are existing and may be used. Sleeves may be overfilled on a temporary basis when installing new cable before demolition of existing cables.

90 No mechanical or security drawings were provided for Building 27. VA please confirm that no mechanical or security work is scheduled for the room renovations in building 27.

There is no work at this time for Building 27.

91 No mechanical drawings were provided for Buildings 37, 47, or 48. VA please confirm that no mechanical work is scheduled for the room renovations in these buildings.

Mechanical drawings for these buildings are located on M-103. These buildings are keynoted to show that there is no mechanical scope in those spaces.

92 Detail 3 on sheet M501 calls for connecting the leak detection sensor to Johnson Controls BAS. VA please confirm that JCI is the manufacturer and provider for the current BAS control system in the hospital.

The BAS system controls are JCI.

93 Specification 02 21 13 includes site survey and drawing requirements. VA provided drawings appear to already include survey information. VA please clarify site survey drawing requirements for the contractor. Will the contractor be required to provide a final site survey drawing of the work once the project is complete?

Yes.

94 Specification 21 13 13, par. 2.4.A states that “all sprinklers shall be FM approved quick response…” Fire Suppression Keyed Note 1 on the FX drawings call for standard response sprinkler heads. VA please confirm which sprinkler head type is required for this project.

Standard response sprinklers with protective cages are required for telecommunications spaces in accordance with the VA Fire Protection Design Manual Ninth edition § 3.7(B).

95 Specification section 21 22 00, par. 3.3.A requires a room pressurization test to be conducted for clean agent fire suppression spaces. VA please confirm if ALL rooms affected by the work that contain a clean agent fire suppression system are required to be tested.

All rooms protected by the clean agent system must pass a room integrity test in accordance with NFPA 2001 requirements and the specifications.

96 This project appears to include removal of existing HVAC components individually as well as removal of existing fan coil units and existing mini-split AC units throughout the work areas. New work appears to consist of provision and installation of separate stand-alone min-split HVAC units for each TR, with DDC thermostat. Several specification sections within Division 23 are included in the project documents that do not appear to be applicable. VA please confirm and clarify Division 23 work for this project.

If no requirement exists, request VA omit the following specification sections:

a. 23 05 12 General Motor Requirements for HVAC and Steam Generation Equipment

b. 23 05 93 Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing for HVAC

c. 23 08 00 Commissioning of HVAC Systems

d. 23 22 13 Steam and Condensate Heat Piping

a. Section 23 05 12 – Motors for HVAC Equipment:

This specification section may be required for the condensate pump motors. It shall remain included in the project documents and is not to be omitted.

b. Section 23 05 93 – Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB):

Demolition of existing systems may necessitate TAB for downstream systems to verify proper performance. This specification section is not to be omitted.

c. Section 23 08 00 – Commissioning of HVAC Systems:

Commissioning is required to ensure proper startup and operation of the HVAC systems, particularly the systems and monitoring associated with the Main Computer Room (MCR). This specification section is not to be omitted.

d. Section 23 22 13 – Steam and Condensate Heating Piping:

This specification section was not included.

97 Specification section 23 31 00, par. 2.11 includes references for a prefabricated roof curb. VA please confirm location and quantity for this work.

Section 2.11 in 23 31 00 will not be used for this project.

98 Specification section 23 31 00, par. 3.2 requires duct leakage testing, etc.

VA please confirm this requirement only pertains to the existing and modified duct work associated with this project, and that full system testing is NOT required as part of this contract.

Confirmed. Duct leakage testing only pertains to existing and modified duct work associated with this project.

99 Specification section 26 31 13 lists requirements for a new generator.

Electrical drawings, keyed note 43 directs contractor to provide and install a new 350kW generator. VA please provide proposed basis of design manufacturer for the new generator.

The basis of design manufacturer for the new generator was Kohler Power Systems.

100 Spec section 28 05 00 lists requirements for contractor personnel. VA please confirm the project superintendent must be a BICSI Certified Commercial Installer Level 1, Level 2, or technician provide oversight of the project.

No. Must have BICSI Installer 1, Installer 2, or Technician as superintendent of all low voltage installation teams.

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

Yes. Must be RCDD on staff.

102 Please confirm the telecom contractor must be a licensed BICSI contractor with a minimum of five (5) years of experience installing and servicing systems of similar scope and complexity.

A contractor licensed for this work is required with a minimum of five

(5) years of experience installing and servicing systems of similar scope and complexity.

103 General Electrical Drawing question: New TR appear to be fed from existing panels and existing service(s) throughout the buildings. VA please consider providing existing electrical drawings that locate existing panels and/or main feeder locations so distances and quantifications for new cabling can be calculated. This information is critical in allowing bidder the opportunity to provide accurate pricing for the work required.

Approximate locations of existing panels in scope are shown on overall plan sheets E-101 through E-107.

104 Several existing electrical receptacles and switches are marked on the Electrical Drawings as being disconnected and removed. VA please confirm this work also requires patching and repairing of the existing wall(s) to match existing adjacent walls where the receptacle or switch was removed.

Where existing devices to be removed are not replaced with new in the same location, the wall shall be patched as required to maintain its fire rating. In telecom rooms, where walls will be covered with plywood, no finish work (e.g., painting to match surrounding area) will be required.

105 Please provide the specific types cabling required for cabling shown on sheets T-503, T-504 and T-505.

Not enough information to provide a response.

106 Please provide camera basis of design. Cameras Basis of Design:

AXIS P3265-V

AXIS P3737-PLE

AXIS P3818-PVE

107 Please provide the VA cabling standards document referenced in spec 27 05 26 1.3.

Refer to Infrastructure Standard for Telecommunications Spaces - Version 4 at www.cfm.va.gov › til › telecom

108 Reflected Ceiling Plans (A-Series); Specs 01 00 00 Please provide a single drawing showing clear floor-to-ceiling heights for all areas of work to ensure above-ceiling coordination.

Ceiling heights are shown on RCPs. See similar response to question #72. For work done in corridors where ceiling and deck heights are not noted, the contractor is to determine the best route for data to avoid conflict with existing systems above ceiling.

109 Specs 02 82 11; 02 83 33.13; Env Drawings HA000 Series Has the work area been checked for asbestos, lead-based materials and/or other hazardous materials? Is there a final report available?

Work areas have been checked for asbestos.

110 Drawing Sheet HA270, Hazardous Materials Keynote A1 states that Building 27 is scheduled for a major renovation under a different project.

VA please confirm when this Building is scheduled to receive the renovation work. Should the contractor bid this work under a separate line item in this project bid?

Building 27 renovation will not happen during this project.

111 Specs 02 82 11; 01 00 00 What is the policy if asbestos or hazardous materials not quantified are encountered during construction?

All safety protocols must be adhered to. If the Government determines the HAZ MAT encountered is not already a requirement of the contract, an appropriate modification will be issued at the determination of the Contracting Officer.

112 Architectural Drawings A-Series; General Please provide reflected ceiling plans for each floor affected by construction to quantify ceiling demo/replacement.

See response to question #108.

113 ICRA Construction Details GI002; Specs 01 35 26 Please provide detailed ICRA wall layouts for each building and floor.

Contractor to coordinate ICRA wall and door locations with VA.

114 Architectural Drawings; General Notes Please identify any signage to be reused or replaced.

Existing signage to remain. Contractor to replace signage if damaged during construction.

https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/telecom/OIT-ISTS.pdf https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/telecom/OIT-ISTS.pdf

115 Specs 07 84 00; Structural SE001 Clarify extent of fireproofing and firestopping required for new penetrations.

Refer to the installation instruction in the 07 84 00 Firestopping specification.

116 Phasing Notes GI010; Specs 01 00 00 Please confirm if final phasing plan includes staff relocations.

Staff relocation is not currently planned as part of the phasing of this project.

117 Telecom T-Series; Specs 27 13 23 Confirm if contractor must remove dead cabling and non-project cabling in ceilings.

Confirmed.

118 Specs 27 13 23; 27 10 00 Is conduit required for Cat 6A cable runs from corridor mains to outlets?

Preferred, where possible. Many locations will be unable to install conduit from corridor to outlet. Install “J-hooks” from corridor with conduit stub-out to outlets, where needed.

119 Telecom Drawings T-Series; Specs 27 13 23 Please clarify if old fiber/copper cables must be removed after cutover.

Confirmed.

120 Specs 01 00 00; General Notes Please confirm roof warranty information for tie-in or warranty coordination.

Our roofs at Sousley campus are under warranty with approximately 26 years remaining.

121 Specs 07 84 00; 01 00 00 Clarify pre-existing firewalls: is contractor responsible for code upgrades to existing fire safing?

Unclear what this question is asking in terms of “code upgrades”. The contractor is responsible for maintaining the fire-rating of walls as shown in the drawings. If more rated walls are identified during field investigation, contractor to notify AE.

122 ICRA Details GI002; Specs 01 35 26 Are there additional safety/dust containment requirements for ceiling work in occupied areas?

Reference General ICRA Notes on GI002 for dust containment.

123 Specs Div. 26 05 26 Is conduit required for grounding conductors through tunnels, crawl spaces, or above ceilings?

Grounding conductors must be installed in raceway, unless noted otherwise.

124 Telecom T-Series; Specs 27 13 23 Please clarify acceptable solutions for overfilled or inaccessible cable tray sections.

Remove abandoned cable, install new pathway for new cabling. If encountered, specific instances will require review.

125 Specs 27 13 23 Please confirm if existing cable trays have been verified to handle new cabling weight.

Unconfirmed.

126 Telecom T-Series; Specs 27 13 23 Clarify sequence for server cutover and decommissioning old systems.

Server cutover will require…