36C77625R0042 0002 Attachment 01 - RFI Responses.pdf

SOLICITATION NUMBER 36C77625R0042 EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades – Salem, VAMC Technical Questions and VA Response Tracking Sheet

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GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

1. 5-30-25 7/1/25 After reviewing the above Solicitation, we see that the project is estimated to be in the @0m to 50m range with a SDVOSB Set Aside. There are few if any Small Businesses that can provide a bond or even perform projects in this range since we are at a total limit for ALL projects that we perform to be at 45.5m.

We feel that it would be a benefit for the Government to split this project into 2 or 3 smaller projects to allow more competition and provide better and more cost effective pricing.

Will the Government change this solicitation to be smaller to provide for more competition?

There will be no changes to the solicitation.

2.

6-10-25

7/1/25 Given the enormous number of drawings this project has plus specifications, would you please grant a bid extension?? The extra time is going to be needed to go through the drawings and completing the takeoff.

Any extensions related to this solicitation will be posted to SAM.GOV.

7/1/25 please allow us an opportunity to come back to the facility to walk through specific buildings to look at electric rooms where we would be required to install new switchgear feeders and possibly new circuit breakers in existing panels. (would need to know manufacturer of panel). If you allow this opportunity, who shall we contact to arrange the site visit??

The Government does not anticipate offering another site visit for this project. If another site visit is offered, it will be posted through an amendment to SAM.GOV.

3. 6-10-25

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4. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Factor 1, Qualifications of the solicitation reads:

The offeror shall provide qualifications of proposed key personnel, to include Project Manager, Onsite Superintendent, Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO), and Contractor’s Quality Control (CQC) System Manager, per solicitation specifications.

Information to include the following: Name of individual, position title, years with company, education background and narrative for the Project Manager and Onsite Superintendent describing 1 completed project similar in size and scope. Size is defined as a completed project over 10 million dollars. Scope is defined as is defined as a completed project involving phased construction work (demolition, earthwork, carpentry, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, communications, fire suppression) in an active patient care setting.

Does the Government require this narrative for the Project Manager and Onsite Superintendent positions only? Can you confirm we do not need to include a past project or narrative for either SSHO or CQC System Manager (other than the name, title, years with company, and education)?

Submission criteria are clearly stated in the solicitation instruction to offerors section.

Please follow guidance provided.

5. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will the Government consider and evaluate past performance examples from our proposed communications installer that meet the complexity requirements of the project but fall below the dollar threshold of $10M? Is there a limit as to how far below they can fall?

The Government will follow the guidance posted in the solicitation.

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6.

6-12-25 7/1/25 TN001 states the contractor is to include an allowance for an additional ten (10) drop locations “for this page.” Please clarify what is meant by “for this page” as this page includes the table of contents for all telecom drawings. Typically on EHRM projects, the additional allowance to be included by the contractor ranges from 10%-25% of the total number of drop locations throughout the entire project, far more than 10. Is this note intended to call for an allowance of 10 additional drop locations on each page? Please clarify

Contractor to include an allowance of 10% of the total number of data drops

7. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor to assume ceilings in hallways are ACT drop ceilings unless noted otherwise?

Ceiling types in the areas to be demolished are shown on the architectural drawings.

However, contractor shall survey to confirm ceiling types where other disciplines require removal / replacement of ceilings for cable / pipe runs.

8. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, are all horizontal interior fiber backbone conduit pathways shown on telecom drawings existing to be reused, or is the contractor to assume these are all to be provided as new?

Contractor to provide new pathways for fiber backbone. For horizontal pathways, most can be reused. Refer to question 29 response.

9. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Duct Bank shown on CS102 is also shown on CD102, implying this duct bank is existing. Please confirm, is the contractor to remove and replace existing duct bank where shown on CD102 & CS102, or is this duct bank existing to remain and be reused?

It is unclear which duct bank is being referenced. Refer to XP102 for existing conditions plan to clarify what is existing.

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10. 6-12-25 7/1/25 For bidding purposes, please provide approximate dimensions and assumed quantities of furniture items to be removed for access to data drop points, as the drawings indicate the contractor is responsible for removal?

Assume all individual rooms have 1 piece of furniture to move away from the wall to allow for work to take place, and then move back. For Building 74 basement level specifically, assume every individual space has a chair, desk, 2 shelves, and 1 misc piece of equipment that will need stored.

11. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, is all work in hallways and work areas to be done during off hours (nights / weekends0 so as not to disturb normal facility operations?

Hallway work can be done during normal business hours if sectioned off so that work area is protected while access through corridor remains for patients and staff.

12. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, is the contractor responsible for providing maxcell 3-cell innerduct for all new fiber backbone cable installed in new conduit?

Yes

13. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, in work areas where walls / ceilings / finishes are to be disturbed in the process of installing new WAO and data drop assemblies, is the contractor responsible for painting all walls seam-to-seam with 3 coats?

Yes. Contractor shall carefully remove sections of walls, ceilings and finishes then path and repair surfaces and paint repaired area with 3 coats as if it was a new wall.

14. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, the designated SSHO must be a separate individual from both the designated superintendent and QCM?

Confirmed.

15. 6-12-25 7/1/25 The specifications refer to a schedule of special inspections, however this does not seem to be included in the documents issued. Please provide the schedule of special inspections.

No special inspections are required for this project. Mechanical equipment will be commissioned. Design Team will provide routine site observations and final punches.

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16. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor required to hire an SIOR to oversee all special inspections?

An SIOR is not required.

17. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor required to hire a 3rd-party firestopping inspector as part of this contract?

Yes a third party fire-stopping inspector is required. Fire-stopping has been identified as a major challenge for EHRM projects.

18. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor required to hire a 3rd party geotechnical engineer as part of this project?

Yes a Geotech engineer shall be available to assist with the site ductbanks. Additionally, a civil engineer assisting with solutions is recommended.

19. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor responsible for any abatement of asbestos or hazardous material beyond quantities provided in the specifications?

The quantities identified on the plans and report are what shall be bid. The contractor shall have their own Industrial Hygienist on staff to help with identification of any additional concerns that should be spot tested. Additional testing identified during the construction process will be in addition to the projects base bid.

20. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor to assume no further ACM or hazardous material is anticipated to be encountered beyond quantities and locations described in the specifications under section 02 82 11?

Testing was completed for areas within the project. It is plausible that other locations may be identified as walls or ceilings are opened up.

21. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor responsible for testing / sampling / air monitoring for asbestos in all work areas, or only those indicated in the specifications as having known asbestos present?

The contractor is responsible for insuring compliance of NESHAP standards in all work areas.

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22. 6-12-25 7/1/25 The Hazmat report shows asbestos present in work areas beyond quantities given in specification section 02 82 11. For bidding purposes, is the contractor to include asbestos abatement and CIH oversight / reports for all asbestos encountered as expected based on the Hazmat report? Or is the contractor to only include abatement / CIH for quantities explicitly given within spec section 02 82 11?

The contractor should base abatement and CIH efforts on the quantities listed in spec section 02 82 11. Items noted in the Hazmat report beyond those are for situational awareness only and are not included in the abatement scope.

23. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will the contractor be limited to the amount of rooms / work areas that can be accessed simultaneously? Or will the contractor be allowed to sequence work areas as they see fit as long as they stay within the phasing constraints detailed in the phasing plan on

TN000?

During demo and construction, the VA should be able to accommodate most any schedules for quantity of spaces. A limitation that will occur will be during cutover from the existing TR to the new. Anticipate 10 flex network switches available at a time to accommodate the cutovers.

24. 6-12-25 7/1/25 If room-specific phasing constraints beyond those given in the phasing plan are to be anticipated, for bidding purposes, please provide an approximate amount of rooms that will be turned over to the contractor at a time.

For example, in past EHRM projects, bidders have been advised to assume access to only 3- 4 Telecom Rooms, with work in each required to be completed in full before contractors would be permitted to advance to the next work area.

The cutover of TRs at a given time will likely be 3 for this project.

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25. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Would HEPA carts be considered a sufficient means of infection control for contractors to use while working above ceilings in hallways?

A HEPA cart would be acceptable. If performing small work limited to a single ceiling tile, the VA can typically accommodate without a HEPA cart.

26. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor permitted to utilize plastic barrier containments to isolate hallway sections during above ceiling hallway work? If so, must this work be done on off-hours so as not to disturb facility operations?

In many cases this could be performed during business hours if the appropriate ICRA protection is in place.

27. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are plastic hard barrier temporary walls (such as Starc or Edgeguard) sufficient for infection control containment in Telecom rooms, or must these be temporary gypsum assemblies?

28. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Would the VA consider waiving the AISC certification requirement for the steel fabricator and/or erector due to the relatively small amount of structural steel work required for this project?

29. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor to assume new fire sleeves are required at all new through-wall cable penetrations at work areas calling for new cat6a cable drop locations?

Existing pathways can be utilized. Listed fire stop of a single cable passing through a wall can be utilized for individual rooms.

Contractor should assume sleeves for all walls within a corridor route, and through corridor walls.

See question 11.

No. The AISC certification requirement will not be waived.

Hard Plastic would be acceptable. many VAMCs have these types of wall systems. As long as they can put these up so that it meets the ICRA level these would be acceptable.

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30. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor responsible for providing all new WAPs where shown on the T-drawings, or are these existing devices to receive new cable connections only?

WAPS are provided by the local station.

Locations will receive cabling only.

31. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor responsible for providing licenses for all new cameras?

Yes.

32. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is there an existing proprietary fire alarm contractor at the facility? If so, please provide company name and point of contact.

33. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is there an existing proprietary controls contractor at the facility? If so, please provide company name and point of contact.

The controls system will be required to be an open competitive bid but the facility currently has mainly Siemens controls.

34. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is there an existing proprietary PACS and/or CCTV contractor at the facility? If so, please provide company name and point of contact.

35. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Where disturbed by construction, is grass area to be restored using seed or sod?

Civil - Seeding, in accordance with specifications 32 90 00.

36. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the contractor responsible for maintenance and watering for an establishment period of a predetermined duration after initial grass restoration? If so, how long is this establishment period?

The contractor is responsible for maintenance and watering until VA acceptance, which is based upon 95% establishment as dictated in the specifications.

System must integrate with current fire alarm system.

System must integrate with existing system.

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37. 6-12-25 7/1/25 The finish schedule indicates Building 8 room 10 and Building 4 room 207 are to receive new LVT floor finishes, but do not indicate whether these are to be LVT-1 or LVT-2. Please clarify.

Provide LVT-1 in these spaces.

38. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Wall base “QT” is included in the finish schedule but not in the finish legend. Please clarify what “QT” indicates.

“QT” is Quarry Tile. Provide quarry tile where indicated and match color, texture, thickness and profile of adjacent existing quarry tile in safety department suite in first floor of building 74.

39. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please provide a scale for drawing page 74- SF102 showing the new structural steel work.

Drawing scale is ¼" = 1’-0”

40. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is this project Tax Exempt? Offerors are hereby notified that all state and local sales or use taxes for construction materials must be included in their bid or proposal price.

It is solely the responsibility of the offeror to include all other applicable taxes in their bid or proposal price as well. The Government has determined that for this acquisition it cannot take advantage of any sales or use tax exemptions that may be available to it under applicable state law. Under no circumstances will any Contractor be designated as an agent of the Government for purposes of any tax exemption, nor will the Government authorize any Contractor’s use of any tax exemption directly applicable to the Government under this procurement.

SF102 - See the "Steel & Concrete Floor Framing Notes - Note 4: Verify dimensions prior to fabrication of framing.

41. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm that all firestopping must be either installed by an FM global approved contractor, or a UL qualified firestop contractor certified.

Yes. Typically we have seen the trades install their own fire stops but the general is to have a third party inspector review and approve each location.

42. 6-12-25 7/1/25 If rooms are required to be isolated in phases, will there be any downtime in the schedule between phases to allow the VA time for relocation of staff / equipment / devices? If so, how much downtime should the contractor anticipate for this?

Scheduling meetings will be an ongoing part of this construction project. If the VA is given enough notice for moves, no downtime would be expected.

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43. 6-12-25 7/1/25 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.

Please follow solicitation requirements.

See spec setion 01 00 00, subpart 1.7 H Phasing and I.

44. 6-12-25 7/1/25 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.

Please follow solicitation requirements.

45. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm cable installer must have on staff a Registered Communication Distribution Designer (RCDD) certified by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI).

Please follow solicitation requirements.

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46. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm this project must meet the buy American act requirements.

Please follow solicitation requirements.

47. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm level 4 finish for all finished gypsum board including patches

Please follow solicitation requirements.

48. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are we required to use plenum rated cabling for all areas? Can we use riser rated cabling in non plenum spaces?

Provide plenum rated cabling for all areas.

This will accommodate any future changes.

49. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will flexible metal conduit be allowed? Electrical, Yes MC will be allowed, refer to Specifications, Section 260533.

50. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the VA will be working and scheduling with the subsystem vendors on scheduling network outages.

VA will support. VA will expect the general contractor to lead and manage this process.

51. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the normal working hours of this contract are to be assumed as normal working hours; 7:00 am-5:00 pm

Spec section 010000 currently indicates normal working hours as 7:00am – 4:30pm.

52. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm per section 01 00 00 that contractor is to provide a commercial photographer/subcontractor and that indexing/navigation will use AutoCAD drawings to be interactive online. Typically this has been waived on most other VA projects as most facilities do not have the capabilities to utilize AutoCAD.

Format will follow the submittal requirements.

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53.

6-12-25 7/1/25 Can the contractor QC manager serve as the photographer if they meet the requirement of having experience photographing construction projects. The term “Commercial Photographer” is vague, has no licensing requirements or any other information required.

54. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is there an existing roof warranty for the roof system requiring modification as part of this project? If so, is the contractor required to uphold the existing warranty? If so, please provide the point of contact for the company that holds the existing warranty?

55. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is it anticipated that unsuitable soil will be encountered on this project? If so, is the contractor responsible for removal and disposal of any unsuitable soils?

Refer to specification 31 20 00 3.2.G for responsible parties regarding unsuitable soils.

56. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm, is the prime contractor required to directly hire the controls system integrator?

The mechanical contractor should subcontract the controls systems integrator.

57. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is flexible conduit allowed for new cable pathways where entering into work areas?

Electrical. Refer to part 3 of Spec Section 260533 for execution of where and when to utilize MC cable, exposed, etc., Branch circuits shall be run in Rigid/EMT to the first device, then MC would be acceptable after the first device.

58. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will there be PLA requirements on this project? PLA provisions and clauses are currently included. A waiver to remove the PLA provision and clause is pending at this time.

Should this waiver be approved, an amendment will be published.

No, follow the specification.

See question # 143.

Building 2 Roof: No warranty remaining.

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59. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is any of the work part of a collective bargaining agreement? Please confirm this project can be non-union.

The offeror will be required to follow all the requirements provided in the solicitation documents. Please read solicitation documents carefully and propose how you see fit.

60. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm state/local trade licenses are not required for the electricians, cable installers or any other workers for this project?

61. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Should the price include all new data center equipment in our bid? Will any of the equipment be reused in the upgraded facility?

Network electronics are provided by the VA, except for UPSs. This contract will include HVAC units, electrical equipment, room fit-out, racks and cabling, fire suppression, etc.

62. 6-12-25 7/1/25 We noticed Emerson CRAC units. Is name-brand equipment specified or preferred?

Emerson is a basis of design. Federal projects require the specification to remain open.

63. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are pictures and detailed information on each of the TRs is available? Please provide that information if available.

Room data sheet from design investigations will be shared via Addendum #1.

64. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are all OSP cables to be home run to the upgraded Data Center? Can a larger OSP trunk (288 or 512s or similar) be utilized with splices in manholes/handholes to the outlying buildings in lieu of 24s home run cables?

Yes, all OSP cables are home run to the Data Center.

No, a larger OSP cannot be used. All home runs should be 24-strands only.

Electrical: See specification section 26 05 11.

Telecommunications: See specification section 27 05 11.

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65. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Could we receive a copy of the existing OSP as-builts?

66. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will we be able to place equipment in the buildings before work is started such as panel boards and wire?

Storage of components will need to be stored in contractor containers in laydown areas.

67. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will the VA be removing existing IT infrastructure in Rooms that are or will be converted to TR rooms. Or is that the contractor’s responsibility?

The VA will move network electronics like switches and servers. Other infrastructure components shall be included in this project.

68. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the contractor removes all IT equipment. Do we dispose of it too?

Contractor does not remove network electronics. All other items are responsibility of contractor.

VA shall be offered first right of refusal.

69. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will the hospital equipment administrator have a log of the equipment, so they can track its disposal?

Electronics will handle electronic moves and disposal.

70. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are there any hazardous work areas such as radioactive areas or infectious areas?

All radioactive and infectious areas will be made safe prior to contractor work in those areas.

Available as-builts will be provided to the successful bidder.

See specification section 01 00 00, subsection

1.7 F.

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71. 6-12-25 7/1/25 What is the ASI/Outage requirements and average timelines?

Please follow solicitation requirements.

72. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please identify any specific company-wide certifications the VA requires for infectious Control construction for the Prime and their subcontractors. Also, please identify any licenses or certifications of individual workers in regards to Infectious Control construction procedures for this project other than complying with the requirements in the solicitation documents.

Comply with specification section 01 35 26, subsection 1.12 Pre-Construction Risk Assessment. This section discusses ICRA requirements.

73. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Can the Government provide the Room Data package that was discussed during the walkthrough? Can the Government also provide the original photos that were used to develop the room data package?

Room data sheet from design investigations will be shared via Addendum #1.

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74. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Technology Drawing Package – Technology Sheet Index: Underneath the Technology Installation Note #4, the package states that the contractor is to provide full time RCDD supervision for all Division 27 work. Is it the intent of this requirement that the Technology contractor have a full time RCDD present on site during all construction activities, or that the technology contractor must have a full time RCDD on staff that will be supporting this project, but not in the field 100% of the time?

The construction team shall have an RCDD on staff supporting project management and quality control of division 27 work. It is assumed that time will be shared between office and field work.

75. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Drawing TN001, Installation Note 1 indicates that conduit capacity must be derated based on number of 90deg bends. What is the basis of this derate, and what are the parameters (how much does a 90deg bend derate fill capacity)? This is not a requirement of the NEC or TIA standards.

90-degree bends in conduit reduce the conduits usable fill capacity. The number of cables in a conduit with one or more 90-degree bends will be reduced to prevent exceeding the maximum pull force on the cable.

BICSI uses a 15% derating factor in the

TDMM

76. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Drawing TN001, installation note 3 indicates that contractors shall provide a surface mount back box for existing shallow back boxes. How many shallow back boxes exist in the project?

The exact number is unknown. For bidding purposes, assume 10% of boxes may be shallow type.

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77. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Specification 27 05 33 paragraph 3.1.D.1 indicates that in-wall and above ceiling conduits must be Rigid or IMC. Will the government consider EMT for in-wall and above ceiling conduits. This would be a considerable cost savings for the government, and completely per code.

Spec section refers to the mixing of different conduit types are not permitted

78. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Specification 27 05 33 paragraph 3.1.D.1 indicates that only IMC or rigid conduit is permitted exposed in a Telecom Room.

Given that telecom rooms will be accessible to authorized personnel only, will the Government consider the use of EMT in telecom rooms?

Spec section refers to the mixing of different conduit types are not permitted

79. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the government’s intent is that any new telecom conduit must be 1” or larger, but that existing conduits of 1/2 or 3/4 inch are permitted, so long as they meet the requirements of TN001 installation note 1.

That is correct. It is anticipated with most locations being 2 cables, that existing pathways will accommodate new cabling.

Existing port locations with 3 or more cables would be the locations in question.

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80. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Regarding Telecom layout drawings, most, if not all, new work plans include a note that states the contractor is to provide new J-hook routes for new cabling. Please confirm this includes A and B backbone fiber optic as well. Can those share the same J-hook and also share a J-hook with horizontal copper?

Please confirm no tray or conduit is to be installed for horizontal copper. Please confirm J-hook attachment to the suspended ceiling support cabling is permitted.

Existing pathways can be reused where available. Where existing pathways do not exist, provide new jhook supports. A and B fiber shall not be supported in the same jhooks. Generally A and B fiber should not be routed in the same hallway but in those few locations, route A and B fiber on opposite sides of hallway. Fiber could share same jhooks as horizontal cabling as long as it is armored.

81. 6-12-25 7/1/25 A15/TN404 indicates (2) 4” conduits are to be routed to the telecom room presumably for the backbone fiber. The building new work layouts all indicate that J-hooks are to be used for cable distribution. Please confirm that once the OSP fiber is inside the building J-hook is acceptable.

Yes, routing armored fiber on J-Hooks is acceptable if properly rated for the ceiling environment

82. 6-12-25 7/1/25 TN002 indicates that some OSP distribution is in an “existing underground tunnel.” Does conduit exist in this tunnel that can be reused?

Is the contractor to install new conduit? If so, how much? Can J-hooks be utilized in the tunnel? Similar questions arise regarding the “existing walkway.”

There are existing cable trays on each side of the tunnel that can be utilized. For small areas where cable tray does not exist, protect fiber with either innerduct or armor, and jhook support.

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83. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is any of the work part of a collective bargaining agreement? Please confirm this project can be non-union.

Repeat question. See question 59.

84. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is the Salem Veterans Affairs a federal facility? Yes.

85. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm state/local trade licenses are not required for the electricians, cable installers or any other workers for this project?

Repeat question. See question 60.

86. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is this project tax exempt? Should state and local taxes be included in the total price?

Repeat question. See question 40.

87. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Request the due date be extended to the week after the 4th of July holiday.

Any extensions related to this solicitation will be posted to SAM.GOV.

88. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Should the price include all new data center equipment in our bid? Will any of the equipment be reused in the upgraded facility?

Repeat question. See question 61.

89. 6-12-25 7/1/25 We noticed Emerson CRAC units. Is name-brand equipment specified or preferred?

Repeat question. See question 62.

90. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Our understanding is pictures and detailed information on each of the TRs is available.

Please provide that information if available.

Repeat question. See question 63.

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91. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are all OSP cables to be home run to the upgraded Data Center? Can a larger OSP trunk (288 or 512s or similar) be utilized with splices in manholes/handholes to the outlying buildings in lieu of 24s home run cables?

Repeat question. See question 64.

92. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please identify locations of all infection control areas.

Locations of Infection Control barriers are shown on the plans.

93. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Could we receive a copy of the existing OSP as-builts?

Repeat question. See question 65.

94. 6-12-25 7/1/25 TRs require windows sealed/covered (what spec?)

Refer to details on drawings for window covering on sheet AE400 WINDOW

ENCLOSURE DETAILS.

95. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will we be able to place equipment in the buildings before work is started such as panel boards and wire.

Repeat question. See question 66.

96. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Will the VA be removing existing IT infrastructure in Rooms that are or will be converted to TR rooms. Or is that the contractor’s responsibility?

Repeat question. See question 67.

97. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the contractor removes all IT equipment. Do we dispose of it too? Will the hospital equipment administrator have a log of the equipment, so they can track its disposal?

Repeat question. See question 68.

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98. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Are there any hazardous work areas such as radioactive areas or infectious areas?

Repeat question. See question 70.

99. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Is Asbestos, PCB, Lead information available?

This would be helpful in determining disposal of materials cost risk.

Testing was completed as a part of the project and report included as part of the specification. As a result of the XRF testing of the affected rooms on campus, lead-based paint was not identified. The site did have several existing hazmat reports that would be valuable for the construction team.

Design Team requests COR team to provide legacy hazmat reports for the campus to further assist the construction team.

100. 6-12-25 7/1/25 What is the ASI/Outage requirements and average timelines?

Repeat question. See question 71.

101. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please identify any specific company-wide certifications the VA requires for infectious Control construction for the Prime and their subcontractors. Also, please identify any licenses or certifications of individual workers in regards to Infectious Control construction procedures for this project other than complying with the requirements in the solicitation documents.

Repeat question. See question 72.

102. 6-12-25 7/1/25 What percentage of the TRs are new builds? Refer to the set of drawings for all TRs.

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103. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Can the Government provide the Room Data package that was discussed during the walkthrough? Can the Government also provide the original photos that were used to develop the room data package?

Repeat question. Refer to question 73.

104. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Technology Drawing Package – Technology Sheet Index: Underneath the Technology Installation Note #4, the package states that the contractor is to provide full time RCDD supervision for all Division 27 work. Is it the intent of this requirement that the Technology contractor have a full time RCDD present on site during all construction activities, or that the technology contractor must have a full time RCDD on staff that will be supporting this project, but not in the field 100% of the time?

Repeat question. Refer to question 74.

105. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Drawing TN001, Installation Note 1 indicates that conduit capacity must be derated based on number of 90deg bends. What is the basis of this derate, and what are the parameters (how much does a 90deg bend derate fill capacity)? This is not a requirement of the NEC or TIA standards.

Repeat question. Refer to question 75.

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106. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Drawing TN001, installation note 3 indicates that contractors shall provide a surface mount back box for existing shallow back boxes. How many shallow back boxes exist in the project?

Repeat question. Refer to question 76.

107. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Specification 27 05 33 paragraph 3.1.D.1 indicates that in-wall and above ceiling conduits must be Rigid or IMC. Will the government consider EMT for in-wall and above ceiling conduits. This would be a considerable cost savings for the government, and completely per code.

Repeat question. Refer to question 77.

108. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Specification 27 05 33 paragraph 3.1.D.1 indicates that only IMC or rigid conduit is permitted exposed in a Telecom Room. Given that telecom rooms will be accessible to authorized personnel only, will the Government consider the use of EMT in telecom rooms?

Repeat question. Refer to question 78.

109. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the government’s intent is that any new telecom conduit must be 1” or larger, but that existing conduits of 1/2 or 3/4 inch are permitted, so long as they meet the requirements of TN001 installation note 1.

Repeat question. Refer to question 79.

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110. 6-12-25 7/1/25 Regarding Telecom layout drawings, most, if not all, new work plans include a note that states the contractor is to provide new J-hook routes for new cabling. Please confirm this includes A and B backbone fiber optic as well. Can those share the same J-hook and also share a J-hook with horizontal copper? Please confirm no tray or conduit is to be installed for horizontal copper.

Please confirm J-hook attachment to the suspended ceiling support cabling is permitted.

Repeat question. Refer to question 80.

111. 6-12-25 7/1/25 A15/TN404 indicates (2) 4” conduits are to be routed to the telecom room presumably for the backbone fiber. The building new work layouts all indicate that J-hooks are to be used for cable distribution. Please confirm that once the OSP fiber is inside the building J-hook is acceptable.

Repeat question. Refer to question 81.

112. 6-12-25 7/1/25 TN002 indicates that some OSP distribution is in an “existing underground tunnel.” Does conduit exist in this tunnel that can be reused? Is the contractor to install new conduit? If so, how much? Can J-hooks be utilized in the tunnel? Similar questions arise regarding the “existing walkway.”

Repeat question. Refer to question 82.

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113. 6-13-25 7/1/25 During the site visit, we learned that Data Sheets for the existing Telecom and Computer Rooms exist.

Will the government make these resources available?

Repeat question. Refer to question 63.

114. 6-13-25 7/1/25 On all buildings panel schedule electrical drawings (several sheets), the disconnect and starter schedule shows Nema 3R disconnects with stainless steel enclosure in the comments column.

N-3R enclosure is weatherproof enclosure not stainless steel. Weatherproof enclosure is all you need for outdoors, plus less expensive to purchase.

Please verify that the disconnects are N-3R or N-4, N-4X??

Provide Minimum NEMA 3R, Stainless Steel material, per Specs noted on plans.

NEMA-3R is minimum rating, for weatherproof, correct.

115. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Will the sign-in sheet from site visit be available in addendum?

The sign in sheet was made available per amendment 0001.

116. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO?

Cannot See spec 01 35 26 1.8 (C)

117. 6-13-25 7/1/25 If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project?

Yes 01 35 26 1.8 (D) See 1.8 A. first sentence.

118. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC?

Please follow solicitation requirements for the CQC System Manager.

119. 6-13-25 7/1/25 If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

The bidding contractor will need to identify what duration of involvement would be needed to comply with the specifications.

120. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC?

No, please refer to solicitation specifications

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121. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?

Repeat question. Refer to question 40.

122. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm if the current prevailing wages will be consistent for the life of the project with no escalation?

CONTRACTOR TO REVIEW SOLICITATION

DOCUMENTS AND PREPARE PROPOSAL

IN ACCORDANCE WITH REQUIREMENTS.

DBA wage rates may be updated to award if revision are made by the Department of Labor.

123. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm the current design documents meet current VA TIL guidelines.

The design documents were created based on TIL requirements.

124. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent?

The design team will provide the commissioning agent but will be the contractors responsibility to work with the commissioning agent to resolve issues or complete testing and training.

125. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Is the use of temporary plastic wall panels (such as STARC panels) acceptable to meet ICRA requirements?

126. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Will shutdowns be required to be done during off hours or weekends?

Will depend on the area. Shutdowns affecting patient care areas will need to be coordinated during non-business times. Non-patient care areas will have more flexibility.

127. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Solicitation indicates 802 days and Specification section 01 32 16.15 indicates duration of 875.

Which is correct?

See AE Addendum #1. The specification 01 32 16.15 was changed to read ” Construction period services total duration shall be provided as identified within government solicitation request.”

128. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm hours work may be performed? Repeat question. Refer to question 51.

129. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm if there is assumed asbestos that is to be removed? (i.e.- flooring, walls, existing piping, etc.)

There is asbestos to be removed. Refer to hazmat specifications, report, and plans.

Hard Plastic would be acceptable. many VAMCs have these types of wall systems. As long as they can put these up so that it meets the ICRA level these would be acceptable.

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130. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Will mechanical and data rooms be cleared of all stored debris prior to the contractor entering those areas?

Contractor shall be required to coordinate project phasing 8 weeks prior to performing work in each area. These meetings would be a great opportunity to identify to the Owner any items that need to be removed prior to starting work.

131. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Will a full-time fire watch be required during activities such as cutting and welding? How long after such activities are completed?

Spec section 012526 outlines hot work activities per paragraph 1.22. Fire watch plan shall be per NFPA 241.

132. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Is there a particular vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Building Automation System or Temperature Controls System?

Repeat question. Refer to question 33.

133. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Please confirm if there is spray applied fireproofing on decking that needs to be patched at any floor penetrations where piping is removed?

In areas with existing spray fireproofing, contractor shall repair all fireproofing that is damaged / removed by the work of this project.

134. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Existing piping serving fixtures and equipment is not clearly depicted on plans. Please confirm intent to patch surfaces to match adjacent or prepare for new finishes if required.

All existing mechanical piping to be capped or tied into above ceiling using similar materials and sizes to existing piping.

The contractor shall carefully remove sections of walls, ceilings and finishes as necessary to perform the demolition / new work. Patch and repair walls, ceilings, finishes to match existing surface.

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135. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Will activities such as core drilling be required to be done off-hours?

Depends on the area. Non-patient care buildings and spaces away from patient care could be performed during business hours.

Appropriate ICRA and construction barriers shall be provided at all times. Core drilling specifically in a patient care area will need to be coordinate with the VA. It is likely that work in patient care areas would need to be off hours.

136.

6-13-25 7/1/25 Will work in corridors be required to be done off-hours?

Repeat question. Refer to question 26.

137. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Could a site map with building numbers be provided?

Civil sheet CI100 provides the full site with Building numbers indicated.

138. 6-13-25 7/1/25 Are there existing valves available to aid in isolation of various area/floors to facilitate demolition/rework of heating piping, sprinkler, domestic water, etc?

Contractor will need to field-verify isolation valve locations

139. 6-13-25 7/1/25 To allow sufficient time to review responses and prepare our bid we kindly request that you please extend the bid date.

Repeat question. Refer to question 87.

140. 6-13-25 7/1/25 PACS 281300/281316 & Video Surveillance 282300

– Can the VA advise the manufacturer of the existing PACS & Video Surveillance system, and contact information for the maintenance contractor of these systems? Will additional camera licenses be needed and if so, will the VA provide these?

Additional licenses to be provided by the contractor.

PACS: Lenel. No maintenance provider.

Contact Biomed-electronics shop through the

COR.

Video Surveillance: Avigilon (Motorola). No Maintenance provider. Camera project is currently ongoing and manufacturer's warranty for 3 years.

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141. 6-14-25 7/1/25 “According to the specs, the VA seems to be in charge of hiring the Commissioning Agent:

C. Members Appointed by VA:

1. Commissioning Agent: The designated person, company, or entity that plans, schedules, and coordinates the commissioning team to implement the commissioning process. The VA will engage the CxA under a separate contract.

The VA has no method to hire commission firms directly. They are either hired by the design firm or the contractor. This leaves a big gap in the completion of the project. Please send an RFI asking who the Cx firm is that has been contracted by the VA.”

Repeat question. Refer to question 124.

142. 6-18-25 7/1/25 Specs section 01 00 00.1.18A calls for COR to have separate office trailer. Can it be shared with our office trailer?

No.

143. 6-18-25 7/1/25 Specs section 01 00 00.1.30A calls for professional photographer. Is this required on this project?

Yes. Follow the specification. See question 53.

144. 6-26-25 7/1/25 On sheet 09-EP700, existing panel schedule 9-EQD shows to provide a new 225A circuit breaker to feed existing panel 9-1N2. The panel info says 9-EQD is a 100A panel and a 225A breaker cannot be installed if this is true. Plus, these panels are existing and there is no note to replace any of these panels. Please verify this is a mistake and no new circuit breaker is necessary.

See AE addendum #3.

145. 6-26-25 7/1/25 Are the owners looking to do an access control system?

Expanding the existing access control system is included within the drawings.

146. 6-30-25 7/1/25 Various specification and drawings errors or clarifications.

See AE addendums #s: 1, 2, & 3.

147. 7/1/25 7/2/25 Spec says 4 hour runtime on systems, Do you want L-Ion batteries or VRLA. L-Ion will take ½ the space and cost 10%-15% less than VRLA

See AE addendum #4

148. 7/1/25 7/2/25 several counts of new CB’s in existing panels. Some breakers have notes stating they are to be installed in special sized panels or switchboards and some breakers with no notes.

See AE addendum #4

149. 7/2/25 7/2/25 Does the BMS system need to be sole sourced and match the existing?

It will have to be compatible/interface with the existing.