Am 7 - Att 1 - 585-337 Prebid RFIs 061626.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND SOLICITATION #: 36C77626B0016

RESPONSES TRACKING SHEET PROJECT TITLE:

EXPAND PHARMACY AND RADIOLOGY –

MINOR CONSTRUCTION AT IRON

MOUNTAIN VAMC

# CONTRACTOR QUESTION VA RESPONSE

1 Will the government pay for materials stored per VAAR 852.232-70 and FAR 52.232-5? We have experienced PCAC Contracting Officers refusal to pay for materials stored on site during these periods of material shortages and the need to expedite procurement of materials when available to meet schedule obligations and prevent project delays. This is an important factor in preparing Price proposals.

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.

2 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.

Any member of the design team of this project is not permitted to be part of the construction team.

3 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.

4 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.

5 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 VetCert database.

6 Is this project tax exempt? If the project is sales tax exempt will the government/VA provide a sales tax exemption certificate?

Yes. See Special Note regarding FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/- /media/Project/Websites/taxes/Forms/SUW/3372.pdf

7 Will the Government provide detailed written requirements for contractor badging? Please clarify the process for obtaining PIV badges, including required documentation, background checks, and estimated processing timeframes.

Regardless of affiliation, everyone working within VA facilities or requiring access to VA information systems requires a VA PIV Card.

PIV badging requirements can be found at https://www.osp.va.gov/How_To_Get_A_VA_ID_Badge.asp Immediately after the bonds are provided to the Government, the contractor shall immediately start working with the identified COR at the site to commence the VA PIV process for all known contractor personnel that will be working the project. All contractors must have a PIV Card in order to work on site.

https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/-/media/Project/Websites/taxes/Forms/SUW/3372.pdf https://www.michigan.gov/taxes/-/media/Project/Websites/taxes/Forms/SUW/3372.pdf https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.osp.va.gov%2FHow_To_Get_A_VA_ID_Badge.asp&data=05%7C02%7C%7Ca161741650ed4b22218208de6008203d%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C639053785169652282%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bOyRo4yD6UcMOZ261M7rEERPQ4zyMuZo1ibLTo%2BidoM%3D&reserved=0

8 How soon after award is NTP expected to be issued? The Government anticipates issuance within 90 calendar days after award.

9 Will the VA allow deviations to Buy American Act if the noted products are not available?

The process of requesting exceptions to the Buy American Act is detailed in the provision at FAR 52.225-12, Notice of Buy American Requirement—Construction Materials Under Trade Agreements, and the clause at FAR 52.225-11 Buy American—Construction Materials under Trade Agreements, in the solicitation. Any items not compliant must be specifically listed in the offer.

10 Due to current potentially significant tariffs being placed on the importation of building materials such as wood or steel by the current Presidential Executive Branch, if a tariff is placed after bid time and before award will the government consider a price escalation on a contract value for products such as steel or wood should the executive branch levee tariffs effecting such materials? Most of these materials would still have been Buy American compliant as the tariffs would increase pricing on all steel or wood materials, regardless of origin.

This will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract and all escalation should be factored in your FFP. Additionally, FAR 52.216- 4 “Economic Price Adjustment – Labor and Material” is not included in the solicitation and will not be added.

11 Will the Government provide detailed written requirements for contractor badging? Please clarify the process for obtaining PIV badges, including required documentation, background checks, and estimated processing timeframes.

Regardless of affiliation, everyone working within VA facilities or requiring access to VA information systems requires a VA PIV Card.

PIV badging requirements can be found at https://www.osp.va.gov/How_To_Get_A_VA_ID_Badge.asp Immediately after the bonds are provided to the Government, the contractor shall immediately start working with the identified COR at the site to commence the VA PIV process for all known contractor personnel that will be working the project. All contractors must have a PIV Card in order to work on site.

12 Ref 01 45 00 Will an onsite QC manager with 20 plus years supervision experience be acceptable in lieu of a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or graduate of construction management QC Manager ?

The QC system Manager is required to be a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or a graduate of construction management, with a minimum of 5 years construction experience on construction similar to the scope of this Contract. See spec 01 45 00 § 3.4(b)

13 Ref drawing A102K Keynotes 14 and 2…. Can as-builts be provided for the pneumatic tube station relocation work?

Please see addendum number 1 and 3. Pneumatic tube station work has been eliminated.

14 Ref spec 01 00 00- Phasing allows 610 days from NTP to complete all work (one phase at a time) which includes 90 days for phase 0. In turn that leaves 520 days for 6 different phases of construction. Phase 1 is allowed 45 days, phase 2- 250 days and phase 3A thru 3D- 225 days. Without consideration of current labor shortages, material lead times, and the complexity of work involved for phase 2, additional time will be needed well beyond what is being allowed. I suggest to following durations : Phase 1- 120 days, Phase 2- 480 days, Phase 3A thru 3D- 225 days. Will additional time be granted? If not, this will greatly increase labor cost for premium time.

Please see the revised phasing plan.

15 Ref phasing- Will downtime be required between phases to allow for VA to move staff / equipment to new locations? If so, how much time should the contractor anticipate between phases for scheduling purposes? Will the down time count against the days allowed for construction?

For a complete schedule break down Reference specs 01 00 00 § 1.2 (F)

16 Ref drawing AR102K- Will the VA be providing and installing the ceiling mount patient lift prior to placement of the ceiling grid? If so, who will coordinate installing the lift to avoid schedule delays? If the contractor is responsible for patient lift, will specifications be provided?

Va will provide the lift and installation. Coordination will occur between the Primary contractor and the COR.

17 Ref drawing G001K General Note 31- Will Radio Frequency Shielding Vendor drawing be provided?

RF Shield drawings were provided for contractors to provide pricing for the assumed scope of work associated with the RF shield- based on the MRI basis of design. Updated installation RF shield calculation/shield drawings will be required once machine is purchased and engineered. RF shield drawings provided for reference.

18 Ref drawing A407K- Will the VA be providing the MRI Equipment? If so are there any requirements the contractor is obligated to perform for the VAs MRI vendor such as base plate mounting or possibly other tasks?

VA will provide MRI. Contractor is responsible for making room ready to receive MRI. MRI Vendor responsible for MRI installation/operation. Basis of design for MRI is attached and noted on Sheet G001K, general note 32.

19 Ref Geotechnical Report- Per the report, it is stated that in the event unstable soils are encountered at foundation depth, it may be necessary to sub-cut the soils 1’-3’ which will be determined based on field observation and replaced with engineered fill or open graded stone. Will this additional cost be considered extra to the contract amount, or does the contractor need to include the cost as part of the base bid?

Make note this may have a large impact on depth of the required shoring needed.

Unstable soil conditions are not anticipated to be encountered at foundation depth. Extra work to sub-cut the soils would be considered extra to the contract amount if necessary.

20 Ref drawing C300- In reference to protect existing utilities and building foundations, will vibration monitoring be required during shoring installation? Will an engineered shoring plan be required?

Refer to VA specifications for required monitoring and/or shoring plan requirements.

21 Ref drawing AD104K & MH104K- Will the existing exhaust fan remain on the roof in the NE corner of the new Normal Power Hall 3333, or will the VA relocate prior to project start? Also, refrigerant piping on the existing walls that may interfere with the new building addition. Will the piping be relocated by the

VA?

Any existing utilities will need to be relocated by the contractor in coordination with the VA. A 1” branch circuit electrical conduit and conduit supports serving an existing exterior CRAC unit condenser on roof level will need to be relocated. This conduit is located on the east exterior mechanical shaft wall on the 3rd floor. See F9/MD106K in regard to EF-20 demolition work. Refrigerant piping of adjacent condensers are not impacted by the new walls

22 Ref drawing A105K- The north wall of hall 3333 indicates a M4- 000 wall type. Will a description for the wall type be provided?

Will brick toothing be required? Can an elevation drawing be provided?

The brick shall be toothed. Wall type description provided on A602K. 4” masonry unit.

23 Ref drawing C300- What is the depth of the existing sanitary line that runs north from the existing pharmacy wing which calls out to protect? What is the depth of the existing sanitary pipe scheduled for flowable fill shown on north side of east wing? Does sanitary manhole #2 remain as shown on C300, or is it being removed as shown on drawing C200?

Existing sanitary line running North is approximately 20’ deep. Invert starts at 1127.50’ and ends at 1126.690. Depth for pipe to have flowable fill to the NW is approx. 20’ deep. Depth for pipe to have flowable fill to the East is approx.. 19’ deep. Sanitary manhole #2 to be removed as shown on drawing C200.

24 Ref drawing C200- Will a drawing be provided with correct scale as the existing drawing appears incorrect.

Bar Scale appears to be correct. Verified with Viewport scale

25 Ref Drawing I002K- Will a specification be provided for digital wall covering?

Spec section 09 72 16 attached. Updated Spec section 09 06 00 also included

26 Ref drawing S001Cold Form Metal Framing- Does the design engineer need to be registered in Wisconsin or Michigan?

Design engineer should be registered in the state of Michigan.

27 Ref drawing E402K, detail F6. Can you provide the Nema Load Class for cable tray?

NEMA load class to be provided by Owner’s Imaging Vendor. For bid purposes, assume span category 8 and load designation B

28 Are All employees of general contractors and subcontractors shall have successfully passed VA background checks can you clarify what type of background checks are required.

See response to number 11.

29 Based on current lead times for obtaining VA badging is the VA willing to provide a limited notice to proceed to allow for the contractor and required subcontractors VA badging?

No limited notice to proceed. Day badges can be issued daily until long term badges are issued. Badging requirements have been streamlined and can be issued within 2 weeks.

30 Will the VA be paying for stored materials if all requirements have been met in accordance with contract clauses?

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.

31 Will the VA please confirm all required permitting has been acquired by the VA for this project from the local governments?

All necessary Federal, State and local permits have been acquired.

Can you confirm or provide the performance requirements for blast loading for the individual components as defined in the Physical Security and Resiliency Design Standards Data Definition for VA Facilities? This is not a document that contractors have access to without having an active contract and acceptance to access from the VA.

The Physical Security and Resiliency Design Standards Data Definition cannot be distributed. Specific peak pressure and impulse values are provided in the relevant specifications for each element as well as the deformation and performance limits.

Refer to the question 46 response for specific specification sections that provide blast loading values for each component.

Section 02 82.13 Is there an asbestos and lead report provided for the areas we are working in? if so can you provide this report?

See Addendum 1 for asbestos specs. Approximately 8 risers with 14 lin. ft for a total of 112 lin. ft. All asbestos will be removed by contractor. A report will be provided after award.

Section 01 45 00 Can the superintendent perform dual hat responsibility’s functions as superintendent and quality control manager?

The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System Manager and can perform other duties, but needs to be allowed sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B).

Section 01 35 26 Can the superintendent perform dual hat responsibility’s functions as superintendent and SSHO manager?

No, the SSHO and superintendent must be separate qualified individuals.

Can the superintendent perform triple hat responsibility’s functions as superintendent, QCM, and SSHO manager?

No, The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B).

37 Does the Period of performance account for badging and lead times?

Day badges can be issued daily until long term badges are issued.

Badging requirements have been streamlined and can be issued within 2 weeks.

38 Section 01 00 00 1.31 Photographic Documentation – Can the project superintendent provide the construction photos and utilize an -I phone

If an Iphone camera meets 6 megapixels (MP) capable of producing 200x250mm (8 x 10 inch) prints with a minimum of 2272 x 1704 pixels and 400x500mm (16 x 20 inch) prints with a minimum 2592 x 1944 pixels and the pictures are functional as intended than it would be accepted.

39 Section 01 91 00 1.2 Can you clarify and confirm the commissioning agent is hired by the VA

Commissioning Agent (CxA): 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. See specs 01 91 00 Section 1.8(C)

Will the VA accept the use of Procore Project Management software as the primary submittal platform?

Yes, access will need to be given to a reasonable amount of VA staff members at no additional cost.

Will the VA accept the use of Procore Project Management software as the primary RFI’s and Project Management platform?

Yes, access will need to be given to a reasonable amount of VA staff members at no additional cost.

Is there any seismic design requirements for piping, electrical Mechanical or other scopes of work required for this project?

Seismic requirements are listed in each trades specification sections.

Can the onsite CQC Manager have construction experience with the same qualifications as the superintendent in lieu of a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or graduate of construction management?

The QC system Manager is required to be a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or a graduate of construction management, with a minimum of 5 years construction experience on construction similar to the scope of this Contract. See spec 01 45 00 § 3.4(b)

44 Will an onsite CQC Manager with supervision experience be acceptable in lieu of a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or graduate of construction management CQC Manager?

The QC system Manager is required to be a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or a graduate of construction management, with a minimum of 5 years construction experience on construction similar to the scope of this Contract. See spec 01 45 00 § 3.4(b)

45 Has the designer of record and project design accounted for requirements for blast rated components?

Yes, the structural design accounts for blast load reactions from rated components.

46 Can you clarify the components that are required for blast rated components?

The contractor is responsible for the blast design of the components listed in the table below. The table also identifies the location of the blast loading information within the specifications as well as forced entry or ballistic resistance requirements.

Component Blast Loading Specification

Forced Entry/Ballistic Requirements

Police Window 08 56 53 - 2.1.B.2.a.3 08 56 59 - 2.2.A

Pharmacy Window 08 56 53 - 2.1.B.2.a.2 08 56 59 - 2.2.A

Radiology Window 08 56 53 - 2.1.B.2.a.1 N/A

Penthouse Louvers 08 90 00 - 2.2.B.3.A.a N/A

Ballistic Rated Panels N/A 10 26 40 - 2.3

Police Exterior Door 08 34 53 - 1.4.A.4 08 34 53 - 1.4.A

Police Interior Door N/A 08 34 53 - 1.4.A

Holding Room Door N/A 08 34 53 - 1.4.A

Radiology Exterior Door 08 34 53 - 1.4.A.4 08 34 53 - 1.4.A

Penthouse Exterior Doors 08 34 53 - 1.4.A.4 08 34 53 - 1.4.A

Penthouse Cold Formed Metal Framing 05 40 00 - 1.3.E N/A

Penthouse Roof and Siding Panels 07 40 00 - 2.2.F N/A

Are the defined phases of work unoccupied during construction work?

No, the Medical Center must maintain its operation 24 hour a day, 7 days a week. Therefore, any interruption in service must be scheduled and coordinated with the COR to ensure that no lapse in operations occur. Please see revised phasing plan intended to minimize disruption.

Can we perform any phases concurrently?

No, please refer to the specs 01 00 00 section 1.6(I)

49 Can you provide location of parking and staging area assigned to this project?

Work area update is provided; appropriate/approved equipment can be inside that space. Temp storage MAY be available south of parking lot E (most Southern area of property) Anything stored outside of the construction space needs to be mobile on short notice, approved by the COR, and out of the way for snow removal.

No contractors parking on pavement, parking south of parking lot E available if not occupied by staff or veterans.

Can you provide the UL Rating for the roof system?

Comply with UL 580 or UL 1897 for uplift resistance 07 53 23 3.4(c) Construction type is noted on Sheet G002K. Type II (222). This requires a minimum 1 hour fire rated roof structure, with minimum Class B roofing material.)

Will power be provided to the staging area for an office trailer?

Power is available in construction area. Rooms B101 and B201 will be turned over to contractors as well.

Section 01 00 00 1.26 Can you provide shop drawings or Product Data for Government equipment where we provide installation or Connections?

Contractor is responsible for making room ready to receive MRI.

MRI Vendor responsible for MRI installation/operation. Basis of design for MRI is attached and noted on Sheet G001K, general note

32. Patient lift information will be provided after award.

Are we required to unload and store Government supplied materials?

No

54 Can you provide location of available interior storage space? None.

01 00 00 1.27 can you define and provide a list of items that the VA will be relocating ie MRI Machine?

Items that will be relocated are noted on the drawings.

Infection Control: Please confirm modular walls (such as STARC) are allowed for ICRA Requirements

Standard construction barriers conforming with ILSM, ICRA, and PCRA requirements of smoke tight and build out of non-combustible materials and other requirements will be allowed.

07 84 00 1.5 Please confirm the installer qualifications for firestopping or can firestopping be installed by individuals who hold manufacturers’ certifications such as Hilti or 3M?

Per the specifications any member of a firm that is UL or 4991 certified can install the firestop systems.

Will VAMC be able to provide attic stock for ceiling tile, wall coverings, flooring where we may be tying into

No.

Can you clarify if any sprayed fireproofing is required to be repaired for any existing areas?

Where existing spray fireproofing is disrupted or damaged by construction activities, fireproofing shall be repaired.

Will any of the commissioning for this project require commissioning services for existing systems in the building?

Commissioning will be done for new systems and existing system tie in’s as specified in 01 91 00

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

Currently Energy control & Design is the BAS contractor, utilizing Seimens Desigo. Contact Adam Nackers, ANackers@energycontroldesign.com.

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

Johnson Controls

Does ICRA HEPA negative air exhaust need to be vented directly outside?

This is dependent on the situation, please reference the most current ICRA PCRA requirements

Is this acceptable for ICRA HEPA Negative air exhaust to be returned back into the hospital space?

This is dependent on the situation, please reference the most current ICRA PCRA requirements mailto:ANackers@energycontroldesign.com

Can ICRA HEPA negative air exhaust be vented back into a return air duct?

No.

Does the Period of Performance account for all long lead time items?

Yes.

Does the Period of Performance account for employee badging time frame?

Day badges can be issued daily until long term badges are issued.

Badging requirements have been streamlined and can be issued within 2 weeks

68 Is there other after work hours we can perform high noise work in lieu of standard working hours?

High noise work may be performed outside of normal business hours. Normal business hours are 0800-1630 subject to change at the COR’s discretion.

69 Does the SSHO have to be a direct employee of the Prime Contractor?

A qualified volunteer or 3rd party would be acceptable.

The Prime Contractor shall designate a minimum of one SSHO at each project site that will be identified as the SSHO to administer the Contractor's safety program and government-accepted Accident Prevention Plan. See specs 01 35 26 1.7(A)

70 Does the CQC Manger have to be a direct employee of the Prime Contractor?

This CQC System Manager is on the site at as required during construction and is employed by the General Contractor. See specs 01 45 00 3.4(B)

Can you provide the existing brick color to match any new work?

The areas of work involve brick units of differing vintages.

Contractor to provide samples of brick matches for each area of work to be reviewed and approved by owner.

Is the existing Pharmacy being relocated to a different area?

No, the Pharmacy will be occupied during construction. Please see the revised phasing plan.

Is the existing MRI Room being relocated to a different area?

No.

Is the New and Portable MRI Equipment being provided by the

VA?

Yes, portable is already in place.

Are you able to provide any perspective views of the addition areas or locked revit models for review?

Views can be provided to awarded contractor after notice to proceed

Is there any Pedestrian / Public exit requirements in the addition area that needs to be accounted for?

Either the urgent care entrance or the main entrance will remain open at all times, ensuring patrons have uninterrupted drive-up, walking, and handicap-accessible entry.

Can you provide the site location of the Portable MRI Machine?

Are we required to provide power service?

Portable MRI machine is already on site and in service.

78 Does the Period or Performance account for winter weather work or winter weather stoppage? Depending on project award date, some work may not be feasible in the cold months.

The POP will not be adjusted due to the normal weather conditions for this geographical area. Winter condition construction will be the responsibility of the contractor.

Does the VA have a CAD file indicating locations of existing or abandoned undergrounds that can be provided to the contractor?

Known existing underground conditions are provided in the site drawings.

80 Please confirm if this project will have limited night work as outlined in spec section 01 00 00 Section AA. Within spec section 01 00 00 section 1.3 B says this project will require night work but no definition of night work is provide.

Normal business hours are 0800-1630 subject to change at the COR’s discretion.

81 Please confirm the superintendent shall not have any shared duties as a QCM, SSHO or any other roles on the project.

The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System Manager and can perform other duties, but needs to be allowed sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

82 Please confirm the SSHO shall not have any shared duties as a QCM, superintendent or any other role on the project.

The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System Manager and can perform other duties, but needs to be allowed sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

83 Please confirm the QCM shall not have any shared duties as a SSHO, superintendent or any other role on the project.

The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System Manager and can perform other duties, but needs to be allowed sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

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

Confirmed. Provide per specification section 28 05 00 Part 1.4 (C) (3).

85 Please confirm the VA will provide the Commissioning Agent (CxA) under a separate contract?

Commissioning Agent (CxA): 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. See specs 01 91 00 Section 1.8(C)

86 Please confirm if contractors are required to have a Commissioning Manager (CxM) as part of its project team?

Members Appointed by Contractor:

1. Contractor’ Commissioning Manager (CxM): The designated person, company, or entity that plans, schedules and coordinates the commissioning activities for the construction team. See specs 01 91 00 1.8 (B)

87 Please confirm if QCM can dual hat as Commissioning Manager

Commissioning Agent (CxA): 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. See specs 01 91 00 Section 1.8(C)

88 Please confirm that the contractor is to supply all materials testing for the project.

Any testing required per the specs and drawings will be the requirement of the contractor.

89 Please provide special inspections specification 01 45 35. Update provided in PCAC Package

90 Please confirm that all firestopping must be either installed by an FM global approved contractor, or a UL qualified firestop contractor certified.

Per the specifications any member of a firm that is UL or 4991 certified can install the firestop systems.

91 Please confirm that the contractor is to include the services of a third party independent firestopping inspector in their bid.

Yes, see specs 07 84 00 1.5(c)

92 Please confirm site space can be used for trailers and laydown area.

Work area update is provided; appropriate/approved equipment can be inside that space. Temp storage MAY be available south of parking lot E (most Southern area of property) Anything stored outside of the construction space needs to be mobile on short notice, approved by the COR, and out of the way for snow removal.

93 Please confirm that contractor parking will be provided on site.

This directly impacts pricing.

No contractors parking on pavement, parking south of parking lot E available if not occupied by staff or veterans.

94 Please confirm if this project is tax exempt. If so, will the VA provide the documentation to the prime contractor after award?

Yes. See Special Note regarding FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

95 Please confirm this project must meet the buy American act requirements.

Yes, see solicitation for Buy American Act requirements.

96 As this project is a small business set-aside please confirm FAR clauses 52.225-11 and 52.225-12 are applicable on this contract

Yes, see solicitation for both.

97 Please confirm level 4 finish for all finished gypsum board including patches.

Use Level 4 finish for all finished areas open to public view. See specs 09 29 00 3.5(A)

98 Is there a current roof warranty for each building? If so, please confirm who has the roofing warranty and provide point of contact.

No, warranty.

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

This is correct

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

Confirmed, bonding must be through the approved Joint Venture or Mentor Protégé team.

101 Please confirm that a large business not part of an SBA/VA APPROVED Mentor-Protégé team under the VA Mentor- Protégé program cannot provide a bid guarantee for a

SDVOSB

Confirmed, bonding must be through the approved Joint Venture or Mentor Protégé team.

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

This will be subject to the standards set in the ILSM, ICRA and PCRA.

Those requirements might be necessary depending on the ICRA level determined at the time of construction.

103 Please confirm if contaminated soils are encounter, a change order will be issued to the contractor to properly haul and dispose of contaminated soils.

Contaminated soil will be handled properly and in compliance with federal regulation. It is not anticipated that there is any contaminated soil at this time

104 Please confirm all work is defined as normal hours. No, the work time approved by Medical Center may occur at other than Contractor's normal working hours. VA normal business hours are 0700-1630 subject to change at the COR’s discretion.

105 Please define off hours. We assume off hours to be second shift please confirm second shift hours.

VA normal business hours are 0700-1630 subject to change at the COR’s discretion. Contractor hours can be structured how they see fit

106 If second shift is considered as night work please define night work hours.

VA normal business hours are 0700-1630 subject to change at the COR’s discretion. Contractor hours can be structured how they see fit.

107 Please confirm if Phase 3 areas will not be occupied under Phase 2 construction. There can be no occupancy in Phase 3 since Phase 2 requires removing walls up against Phase 3 areas.

No, the Medical Center must maintain its operation 24 hour a day, 7 days a week. Therefore, any interruption in service must be scheduled and coordinated with the COR to ensure that no lapse in operations occur. Please see revised phasing plan intended to minimize disruption.

108 Please elaborate on the intent/delineation behind Phases 2 and

3. Since we are to remove walls that join areas in Phase 2 and 3, there does not seem to be a reason to sequence work to follow the flow of Phase 2 and 3. Phase 3 areas are to be unoccupied during Phase 2 construction.

Please see the revised phasing plan.

109 Please provide a site grading plan. Civil drawings do not indicate grading elevations as well as soil stabilization, considering we are to excavate the basement of the West wing.

Proposed Spot Elevations are shown on the plan. It is noted on the plans to protect existing building foundation during excavation.

Also noted to refer to structural plans for additional information

110 Please confirm top of concrete walls on Second Floor Framing Plan are to also have a finish elevation of 1161’-0” flush with top of slab.

Top of concrete walls are not flush with the top of slab. The concrete walls extend up – see 13/S820 and B4/A502K

111 Please provide incumbent landscaping maintenance contractor since the landscape work is minimal.

There is no landscaping contract currently.

112 Please confirm no additional landscaping work is required beyond what is shown in contract drawings.

Any damage caused to existing landscaping as a direct result of the construction project must be promptly repaired and restored by the Primary contractor, ensuring that all affected areas are returned to their original condition or better. The contractor is responsible for coordinating these repairs without delay, maintaining the aesthetics and integrity of the site throughout the construction process. There is no scheduled landscaping work outside of what the drawings show. Please see the attached construction area drawing.

113 Please provide the incumbent fire alarm system. Simplex ES 4100, Johnson Controls

114 Please provide the incumbent DDC contractor. Currently Energy control & Design is the BAS contractor, utilizing Seimens Desigo. Contact Adam Nackers, ANackers@energycontroldesign.com.

115 Please provide the incumbent access control manufacturer and system.

Johnson controls

116 Please confirm if any additional support or shoring is required for building stabilization after excavating for basement

This would fall under the contractor’s means and methods

117 Please confirm if Procore can be used on this project. Yes, access will need to be given to a reasonable amount of VA staff members at no additional cost.

118 Please confirm the landscaping restoration requirements. Will Seed and Blanket be acceptable in landscaped areas.

Landscaping will be restored to, or better than, previous conditions maintaining the aesthetics and appearance of the rest of the facility.

119 Please confirm if contractor is responsible for MRI machine. If so, please provide installation details and specifications.

Contractor is responsible for making room ready to receive MRI.

MRI Vendor responsible for MRI installation/operation. Basis of design for MRI is attached and noted on Sheet G001K, general note 32.

120 Please confirm all adjacent rooms and corridors not in scope are to be closed off by VA

Adjacent room closure will be determined with the ILSM, ICRA and PCRA. Construction activities will be minimally impactful to the hospital operations. Please see the updated phasing plan.

121 Please confirm no asphalt striping is required. Asphalt will be restored to original site condition. Some striping may be necessary.

122 Please provide detail for concrete sidewalk. See page C500

123 Please confirm no truncated domes are required. See page C500. All sidewalks will comply with ADA requirements.

Including truncated domes.

124 Please confirm that bid deduct 1 is referencing adjacent police areas noted in Phase 2 in the First Floor Phasing Plan on G003K

Yes, deduct 1 would eliminate all interior buildout of the police area associated in phase 2.

125 Please confirm in Bid Deduct 2 the “pharmacy area” is the Phase 3 location in the First Floor Phasing Plan on G003K.

Yes, the new ceiling work in the pharmacy area is shown as phase 3, it is just the area north of room 1218.

126 Specification Section A.3 identifies Bid Deduct 1 and Bid Deduct 2 as scope reductions from the Base Bid. The deduct descriptions generally identify omitted program areas and selected scope elements but do not provide a fully itemized trade-by-trade delineation of all associated work impacts.

Please confirm the Bid Deduct pricing is intended to reflect the anticipated approximate value of the deleted scope, including associated indirect impacts, as it is not feasible at bid stage to maintain an exact deduct value across all affected trades due to evolving coordination requirements, procurement conditions, subcontractor pricing assumptions, and field integration impacts that may change during construction execution.

Each Line Item Deduct is listed in descending order of importance and removes a portion of the work. Bidders must provide a lump sum price for each of the Line Items. Failure to do so may render their bid nonresponsive. This will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract and all escalation should be factored in your FFP.

Additionally, FAR 52.216-4 “Economic Price Adjustment – Labor and Material” is not included in the solicitation and will not be added.”

127 Please provide existing flooring type at all “patch to match existing” locations identified on the Finish Schedule I002K

Reference existing room finish schedule on sheet I001K

128 Please confirm the existing public address system manufacturer.

Bogen.

129 Is this project tax exempt? If so, can the certificate be provided?

Yes. See Special Note regarding FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

130 Will the sign-in sheet from site visit be available in addendum?

Site Visit sheet was provided via amendment on May 7, 2026. See SAM.gov for attachment

131 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO?

No, the SSHO and superintendent must be separate qualified individuals.

132 If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project?

The Prime Contractor shall designate a minimum of one SSHO at each project site that will be identified as the SSHO to administer the Contractor's safety program and government-accepted Accident Prevention Plan. See specs 01 35 26 § 1.7 (A)

133 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC?

The CQC System Manager is assigned as CQC System sufficient time to perform CQC duties as described in the CQC plan.

The CQC System Manager will NOT have any duties as project superintendent in addition to quality. See specs 01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

134 If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

135 If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

01 45 00 § 3.4(B)

136 Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?

See Special Note regarding FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

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

Any wage rate that is incorporated into IFB via amendment is locked-in for contract performance and no further wage escalations or increases are permitted – even if DOL later revised the determination.

138 Please confirm the current design documents meet current VA TIL guidelines.

plans last updated to 2024 TIL.

139 Please identify the number of calendar days for Block 12b on the SF1442.

Block 12b is revised to 10 calendar days.

140 A.3 0001 Base bid speaks to “other space for support functions” however CLIN 002 Omits: “penthouse” is penthouse considered other space for support functions”

Further clarification is needed.

141 Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent?

Members Appointed by VA:

1. Commissioning Agent (CxA): 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. See specs 01 91 00 1.8(C)

142 Please advise how much time we should carry for initial safety training of employees working on site. Also, is training good for the contract duration or will they need to be retrained annually?

Site orientation is about 45 min, good for the duration of the contract.

143 Is the use of temporary plastic wall panels (such as STARC panels) acceptable to meet ICRA requirements?

Standard construction barriers conforming with ILSM, ICRA, and PCRA requirements of smoke tight and build out of non-combustible materials and other requirements will be allowed.

144 Will shutdowns be required to be done during off hours or weekends?

Fire protection shutdowns and interruptions to be completed during night/premium hours.

See specification section 21 13 13; 1.1 Description, para. D, page 1

Plumbing – medical gas and water shutdowns to be completed during night/premium hours.

See specification section 22 05 11; heading, page 1 and section 1.8 Job Conditions, para. H, page 18

See specification section 22 62 00; heading, page 1

See specification section 22 63 00; heading, page 1

145 Will hydrostatic testing be sufficient on all pipe welds or will x-ray be required?

Perform radiographic examination of 50 percent of the first 10 welds made and 10 percent of all additional welds mades. See specs 23 22 13 3.2(H)

146 If X-ray is required, what percentage of welds and who will be responsible for the cost of testing?

Perform radiographic examination of 50 percent of the first 10 welds made and 10 percent of all additional welds mades. See specs 23 22 13 3.2(H)

147 If hydrostatic testing is required will the water necessary for hydrostatic testing of piping systems be provided by the facility?

Yes.

148 Please confirm if there is assumed asbestos on any piping that is to be removed?

See Addendum 1 for asbestos specs. Approximately 8 risers with 14 lin. ft for a total of 112 lin. ft. All asbestos will be removed by contractor. A report will be provided after award.

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

The Primary contractor will responsible for all aspects of construction in line with the drawings and specs.

150 Will any existing glycol be required to be removed and disposed of by the contractor? If so, can the total volume of glycol be provided?

Glycol is used in the hydronic systems. Captured fluid can be polished and reused at the COR’s discretion.

151 Is there a particular vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Building Automation System or Temperature Controls System?

Currently Energy control & Design is the BAS contractor, utilizing Seimens Desigo. Contact Adam Nackers, ANackers@energycontroldesign.com.

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

VA OIT department.

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

Johnson controls

154 With regards to underground utility work how much open trenching be allowed at a time?

Provided that all applicable regulations and safety requirements are adhered to, and the integrity of the existing structure is maintained, there are no restrictions on the amount of open trenching permitted for this project.

155 After backfilling, topsoil and seed have been applied who is responsible for watering? If the contractor is responsible will water be provided by the facility?

Primary contactor is responsible for watering until contract completion. Water can be available through fire hydrant connection.

156 On all underground utility work please confirm if excavated material is acceptable for re-use as backfill other than that required by pipe manufacturers?

Per the geotechnical report, excavated soils are recommended for trench backfill above the pipe bedding material if they are at or can be brought, with reasonable effort, to the moisture content optimum for compaction as defined by the modified proctor test

(ASTM D-1557).

157 Please confirm if the contractor is responsible for any rock removal that is encountered. If so, what is the assumed elevations and quantity of rock material?

Soil borings did not encounter rock to a depth of 30 feet.

158 Please confirm if a unit price can be established for rock removal as opposed to carrying in bid?

Any unforeseen site conditions will be handled on a case by case basis.

159 Please confirm if there is a separate staging area onsite for fill material to be stockpiled for re-use?

No additional staging area for fill material on site.

160 Please confirm if an onsite arborist is required for any tree removal or tree protection?

A specialized arborist is not required.

161 Please advise if the site contains any contaminated soil that needs to be removed.

It is not anticipated that there is any contaminated soil at this time.

Any unforeseen site conditions will be handled on a case by case basis.

162 If the underground site package requires removal of contaminated soils. Will the site contractor be required to have operators trained and certified in all various levels of contamination handling?

It is not anticipated that there is any contaminated soil at this time.

Any unforeseen site conditions will be handled on a case by case basis. AE

163 Please confirm if we will be allowed to keep a locked storage container or conex box within the grounds.

Work area update is provided, appropriate/approved equipment can be inside that space. Temp storage MAY be available south of parking lot E (most Southern area of property) Anything stored outside of the construction space needs to be mobile on short notice, approved by the COR, and out of the way for snow removal.

164 Will a guard / escort be required at all work areas including but not limited to buildings, outside areas?

No, if an VA escort is needed the VA will provide one.

165 Would the VA be open to combining or modifying the phasing to reduce overall onsite time?

Any minor phase adjustment would be at the discretion of the CO, COR and local leadership.

166 Reference AD102. Please clarify note Q and provide details on intent. Is this note applicable to only the West wall along column line 18?

The note directs Contractor to open exterior wall enough to confirm whether lintel is structurally supported or not. If it is, the exterior wall can be removed. If it is not, the exterior wall cannot be removed. The note applies where “Q” is noted.

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

see amendment for Revised bid date.

168 Ref spec 23 01 30.51- Which ductwork requires cleaning? In the specs they have Supply ductwork listed “throughout building” and returns, fans, exhaust listed as “where indicated”. Drawings do not Identify which ducts and what the limits are for cleaning. Does all supply ductwork throughout building require cleaning on this project? Can clarification be provided?

All new or modified existing ductwork will need to be cleaned as well as any duct work that has been contaminated or potentially contaminated by the construction activities.

169 Can contact information be provided for the current water treatment supplier for the HVAC piping systems?

Garratt-Callahan 340 S. La Londe Avenue Addison, IL 60101-3394 630 543 4411

170 "On page I002K it has listed patch to match in the following rooms on basement floor B231, B291, B291C.

Firstfloor1100,1222,1224,1224A,1225, 1226, 1233, 1233A, 1234, 1236, 1237, 1238, 1245, 1300, and C1-02. Second floor 2203, 2204, 2205, 2236, 2237, 2238, 2241, and 2247.