695-21-700 Technical Question Tracking Sheet - Milw EHRM FINAL 7-22-26.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND SOLICITATION #: 36C77626R0002

RESPONSES TRACKING SHEET PROJECT TITLE: EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades Tier 1 Milwaukee

# RECEIVED ANSWERED CONTRACTOR QUESTION VA RESPONSE

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.

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.

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.

Note: At the end of this document, after RFI #220 response, VA has attached additional information for RFIs # 22 (pp 50-52), #54 (pp 53-231), #76 (pg 232), #87 (pp 233-252), #124 (pp 253-255), and #163 (pp 256-295).

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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 5-13-26 5-21-26 Is this project tax-exempt, if so, will a certificate be provided?

See RFI #6 response.

12 5-13-26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A. Milestone, as purchased through and supported by Johnson Controls, Inc. (JCI), VA Milwaukee’s sole-source video integration and security consultant.

B. 2025, R3.

C. Yes, per JCI and their proposal and subcontract agreement with the Division 28 contractor.

D. Additional licenses will be required for each new camera on the contract. These licenses will be part of the scope/ supply of services from JCI in their contract with the Division 28 contractor.

E. At a minimum, new TRs require fixed dome cameras.

Provide cameras per the contract documents.

F. Yes. VA Milwaukee sole-sources all our CCTV and security infrastructure (hardware, software, programming, and licenses) through JCI. The GC shall utilize JCI for Division 28 camera procurement, install, programming and service/training. Contact Scott Galaszewski at JCI via scott.r.galaszewski@jci.com.

mailto:scott.r.galaszewski@jci.com

13 5-13-26

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A. Physical Access Control System (PACS) is CCure 9000 (P2000 option), as purchased through and supported by Johnson Controls, Inc. (JCI), VA Milwaukee’s sole-source video integration and security consultant.

B. Ver 3.10.

C. Yes, per JCI and their proposal and subcontract agreement with the Division 28 contractor.

D. Additional licenses are not required (unlike cameras, each door does not require its own license). VA has sufficient license capacity for PACS according to JCI.

E. No.

F. Yes. VA Milwaukee sole-sources all our PACS and security infrastructure (hardware, software, programming, and licenses) through JCI. The GC shall utilize JCI for Division 28 card reader procurement, install, programming and service/ training. Contact Scott Galaszewski at JCI via

14 5-13-26

Is there an allowance for Cat 6A cables that should be carried out within the Div.27 pricing? Some previous requirements on other projects requested 5-10% additional Cat 6A cables to cover what may have been missed during design. Please advise.

Yes. The following notes will be added to the Contract Documents in the drawings as well as in the 01 00 00 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS specification.

“The General Contractor’s base bid shall include a re-cabling allowance of at least 10% of the actual WAOs shown in the new work TECHNOLOGY drawings. That is, if a new WAO was missed in the design for any reason, but it is actively terminated at the existing patch panel, it shall be included in the technology sub-contractor’s scope without need for contract amendment. As long as the quantity of missed WAOs does not exceed 10% of the quantity shown in the construction documents, there will be no need for a contract modification.

(In this contract, a WAO is defined as a two (2) port data outlet.)

This 10% allowance for materials includes infrastructure to support a WAO: patch panels in the racks, category 6A network cable(s), in-wall/in-ceiling sleeves, J-hooks or cable trays, back-boxes, 2D data outlet RJ-45 connections, and faceplates.”

Note: the patch cables between the patch panel and the switch and the network cables between the WAO and the VA VOIP phone or computer are not part of the Contractor’s scope.

15 5-13-26

Existing Fire Alarm System.

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

Please provide contact information

The existing VAMC Milwaukee Fire Alarm (FA) system is Siemens CerberusPro Modular as provided and serviced by Systec, LTD. FA hardware, software, programming, and service are by Systec and are therefore sole sourced.

Please coordinate new work, testing, programming, commissioning, and reporting with Scott Hill scotth@systecltd.com.

16 5-13-26

Existing Nurse Call System.

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

Please provide contact information

The existing VAMC Milwaukee Nurse Call system is by Jeron as provided and serviced by Systec, LTD. Nurse Call hardware, software, programming, and service are by Systec and are therefore sole sourced. Please coordinate new work, testing, programming, commissioning, and reporting with Scott Hill scotth@systecltd.com.

17 5-13-26

Is conduit required for grounding conductors running/installed ceiling & risers?

Yes.

18 5-13-26

Is there a requirement for x-ray scanning of concrete floor slabs prior to core drilling for floor-to-floor sleeves/conduits?

Yes. Consider this a general note on any sheets where this potential exists. Applicable on the sheets for Structural, Pluming, Mechanical, Electrical, and Technology.

19 5-13-26

Is there a location where site asphalt and concrete can be stored/separated? Can this material be removed from the site once per week?

Contractor shall plan for removal of excess asphalt or concrete materials at least weekly. Coordinate with COR during site work for local temporary storage or separation areas. VA’s ability to allow temporary storage or separation areas are dependent on other exterior site work, contractor location, duration of temporary storage, and other variables.

Both the VA and the Contractor will have to be flexible and agile during the site work. These proposed locations shall be shown on the Contractor’s phasing and/or workplans for VA review and approval.

See also RFI #21 and #77 responses.

mailto:scotth@systecltd.com mailto:scotth@systecltd.com

20 5-13-26

Will soil testing be performed prior to construction, to determine if any soils are contaminated?

Refer to specification 31 20 00 paragraph 3.5.

21 5-13-26

Is there a location where spoil dirt can be stored? The VA will not allow long-term stockpiling or storage of spoils. Temporary storage for soils to be re-used will be allowed on a case-by-case basis. These proposed locations shall be shown on the Contractor’s phasing and/or workplans for VA review and approval.

See also RFI #19 and #77 responses.

22 5-13-26

Is there a specific location that will be used as a laydown yard during construction?

VA will allow the Contractor to utilize (and then restore) the former parking lot to the south of Building 39 east of Lake Wheeler on the east campus. See attached map/drawing showing the proposed location. This area – whether used for laydown of materials or for temporary storage of asphalt/concrete/soils – shall be fenced and padlocked (access controlled). The Contractor shall create an access ramp to General Mitchell Blvd from the laydown area which will have to protect and maintain the sidewalk.

Note that a separate contract to renovate Bldg 39 will take place at some point during the EHRM construction contract.

The laydown area fence/operations shall not infringe on the duties and responsibilities of the Enhanced Use Lease renovations of Bldg 39.

23 5-13-26

Will erosion control plans be provided? The General Contractor is responsible for submitting for approval erosion control plans.

The GC should review specification 01 00 00 paragraph 1.9 for an understanding of their responsibilities to protect existing vegetation and the requirement for a WPDES permit on this project.

The GC should review specification 01 57 19 paragraph 1.4.

The Environmental Protection Plan is the same as an erosion control plan. It should show the GC’s plan and policy for controlling erosion during excavation and trenching operations as well as how runoff waters will be contained and prevented from entering the local storm sewers or waterways. Note: each location of site disturbance will require its own EPP based on the specifics of each location for excavations, trenching, or other earth moving activities.

The GC should review specifications 31 20 00 and 31 23 19 for more specific erosion control mitigation requirements.

24 5-13-26

Has there been any boring samples/test made for duct bank pathway/trench to determine subsurface condition?

No. There is no geotechnical engineering report for subsurface conditions for this project.

25 5-13-26

WAO/WAP-Is this a 1 for 1 replacement for existing cables?

No. The GC shall refer to the Technology Demo and New drawings. In most cases, “1-for-1” replacement applies in that a “2V/2D” Work Area Outlet (WAO) is being converted to a “2D” WAO. In other cases, the documents show a significant reduction in the new WAO count (i.e. certain patient room headwalls or training/conference rooms). In very few cases, the documents show additional (new) WAOs. There are also some WAOs that are not in the EHRM scope – they are Biomed WAOs and are identified as

ETR.

26 5-13-26

Is there required a full survey of every room/above ceiling to confirm cable count & WAO location? If so, who dictates the outlet location and quantity of cables per location?

The Technology New drawings show the expected final condition for new Work Area Outlets (WAOs) and Wireless Access Points (WAPs). The GC is not required to conduct a new survey of every location prior to beginning work.

27 5-13-26

Can the government provide a quantity of CAT6 A cables that need to be installed by TR? Please provide a Drop Count Matrix that needs to be provided.

No. The Contractor shall review the Technology New drawings to determine Cat 6A cable quantity for each TR. A Drop Count Matrix will not be provided.

28 5-13-26

What is the drop count of each coverage zone? If it is a 1 for 1 swap, how many existing drops are located in each coverage zone?

See RFI #25 response.

29 5-13-26

Is there required a full/complete survey of every room/WAO pathway/above ceiling pathway, to determine if the existing pathway meet the VA/A&E plan TN400 & 402 detail & spec?

Contractor is responsible for reviewing all aspects of the project, including pathways.

30 5-13-26

Are there a count and length for Cat6A patch cords? For the base bid, GC is responsible for procurement of all Cat 6A TR patch cables (between patch panel and VA switch). VA will install the patch cables (between patch panel and VA Switch). At a minimum, the GC shall provide 48 Cat 6A patch cables for every switch placed in the TR.

Excess cables are the property of the government and shall be turned over once the TR is commissioned and accepted.

In each TR, 15% of the Cat 6A patch cables shall be 3-ft long, 30% shall be 5-ft long, 30% shall be 7-ft long, 10% shall be 10ft long, 10% shall be 15ft long, and 5% shall be 25ft long.

31 5-13-26

Are there a count and length for Fiber Patch cords? There will be a fiber patch panel on the top of each rack that the backbone fiber connects to. From that patch panel it will need to connect to each switch in the TR. The GC shall provide two (2) fiber patch connections/cords per switch in the TR. They shall be no longer than 10ft long each.

Refer to the contract drawings for an accurate count of switches in each TR.

32 5-13-26

Is armored fiber acceptable in leu of/or is Maxcell/innerduct required for ISP fiber?

Yes. Armored fiber may be used instead of conduit with innerduct.

33 5-13-26

Are there specific lengths for the CAT6A patch Cords? See RFI #30 response.

34 5-13-26

Are we to provide one patch cord each end for every new CAT6A cable installed? Or will the VA specify a quantity for the Technology contractor to provide?

See RFI #30 response.

35 5-13-26

Are we to provide patch cables for each pair of strands at each end?

See RFI #30 response.

36 5-13-26

Are we to provide one fiber jumper on each end for every strand of new Fiber cable installed? Or will the VA specify a quantity for the Technology contractor to provide?

See RFI# 31 response.

37 5-13-26

Is there any copper backbone (25-pair or larger) needed? There will be NO new vertical copper backbone (riser) work on this contract. The copper backbone that supports the existing analog telephony 110-blocks in the existing or legacy data/telephone closets will not be demolished, removed, or impacted.

38 5-13-26

Are there specific lengths for the Fiber jumpers? See RFI #31 response.

39 5-13-26

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

See RFI #22 response.

40 5-13-26

Clarify-On TN series plans show NO NEW basket cable tray to be installed for NEW CAT6 cabling. Plan notes call for NEW J-Hooks for all new CAT6 cabling.

VA prefers cable trays to support the brand new Cat6A cabling throughout the campus. Base bid – only cable trays are acceptable.

GC can submit RFIs during construction on a case-by-case basis where crowded ceilings make cable tray install problematic and VA COR will consider J-hooks in those rare instances.

41 5-13-26

Clarify-On TN series plans show existing & new A&B fiber conduit pathways. A&B fiber pathway that are not shown the plan. Can A&B fiber be installed on J-Hook the same as CAT6?

Armored fiber in innerduct shall be installed within the new cable tray system. VA does not want fiber on J-hooks with Cat 6A.

42 5-13-26

On TN series plans show a 2D for the WAO indicating (2) CAT6a cable & the same location on TD plans shows a 2D/1V indicating (2) data & (1) voice cable. Voice cable/system being removed/demo completely? Please advise.

When existing WAOs are noted as combination VOICE and DATA (i.e., 2V/2D), they will be demolished/removed and replaced by a new data-only WAO. See TN drawings.

Horizontal analog voice cable/copper will be removed completely back to the 100-block in the legacy data closet.

The existing 110-block will remain and the vertical copper backbone supporting the 110-block will remain.

See RFI #37 response.

Note: there will be no new analog voice cable/copper being pulled for this EHRM contract.

Note: existing VOICE ONLY drops are out of scope for this construction contract and there will be NO WORK on infrastructure noted as analog telephone only. These situations shall be: existing to remain (ETR).

43 5-13-26

Clarify - PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SLEEVES. FOR

BIDDING PURPOSES, THE CONTRACTOR SHOULD

ASSUME A 20% ALLOWANCE FOR ADDITIONAL

CONDUIT SLEEVES. that should be carried within the Div.26&27 pricing? AS PER TECHNOLOGY INSTALLATION NOTE #15, 25, 26 & 27 Please advise.

See RFI #14 response.

44 5-13-26

Clarify - CONTRACTOR TO INCLUDE AN ALLOWANCE

FOR 10% ADDITIONAL 2-PORTS CAT6A INFORMATION

OUTLETS IN THEIR PROPOSAL. FUTURE

INFORMATION OUTLET LOCATIONS WILL BE

DETERMINED BY THE VA AT A LATER DATE. AS PER

TECHNOLOGY INSTALLATION NOTE #17 Please advise.

See RFI #14 response.

45 5-13-26

Clarify an allowance of 40% WAO 1 1/4” data rough-in/back box that should be carried within the Div.26&27 pricing? AS PER TECHNOLOGY INSTALLATION NOTE #11 & 23 Please advise.

See RFI #14 response.

46 5-19-26 5-21-26 Division 27 EHRM Experience Given the VAAR Magnitude of Construction of $50,000,000 to $100,000,000, the 1,460-calendar-day period of performance, and the significant Division 27 telecommunications scope, please clarify whether this project includes a Division 27-specific past performance or Key Subcontractor Information requirement, as seen on other VA EHRM projects. Due to the critical role of telecommunications in the EHRM Infrastructure Upgrade scope, should past VA EHRM experience from the proposed Division 27 subcontractor be included in the proposal and considered in the Government’s evaluation?

See Instructions, Conditions, and Other Statements to Offerors; Section Technical Proposal Requirements to get the past performance and key personnel requirements for this project.

47 5-20-26

Please provide the site-wide Asbestos and Lead Survey. Added to the specifications.

48 5-20-26

Please provide the Geotechnical Report associated with this project.

See RFI #24 response.

49 5-20-26

There appears to be no mention of Fire Extinguishers or Fire Extinguisher Cabinets for the TRs or MCR in specifications or drawings. Are these items to be included in the scope of work?

Amendment #4 will add fire extinguisher cabinets at every TR (outside the TR and within 75ft of the TR). Drawings are updated and specification section 10 44 13 will be added.

Fire extinguishers will be provided by VA.

50 5-20-26

Floor Plans and RCP including and similar to Drawing 03- AE101 show RCP Keynote #9. “EXPOSED CEILING, PATCH, REPAIR, AND PAINT AS REQUIRED.” Please clarify the scope and requirements of patch, repair and paint exposed ceilings.

The GC shall assume that the entire ceiling of the TR will need to be patched/repaired or skim coated or gypsum laminated and painted. The GC’s base bid will labor and materials to provide an entirely new ceiling based on the room’s square footage. This way VA gets an entirely new ceiling.

51 5-20-26

The duct bank depths shown in Drawings 100-CU110 through 100-CU117 exceed the 48- inch working depths of the Handholes currently assigned for access. Should not Manholes be used instead?

Handholds have been switched to manholes in these instances. See revised drawings in Amendment #4.

52 5-20-26

The demolition scope displayed in Building 111 First Floor Demo Plans 111-AD103 and 111-AD104 does not connect well /conflicts with associated renovation scope First Floor Plans 111-AE103 through 111-AE105. Please clarify demolition and renovation scopes.

Sheets 111-AD103 and 111AD104 have been modified.

They will be included in Amendment #4.

53 5-20-26

The Scope of Work Narrative discussed the Building 111, First Floor “old kitchen” being renovated into the MCR and supporting rooms. The associated drawings provide little to no information on existing conditions. Please provide narrative and/or pictures showing the equipment and finishes to be salvaged and stored or demolished.

See RFI #52 response.

54 5-20-26

The contaminated waste profile lab analyses that will be provided by the COR as noted in Earthwork 31 20 00 3.5 Disposal of Unsuitable and Excess Excavated Material is needed to price transportation and disposal as well as work practices, lab sampling, and PPE. Please provide.

The two final lab reports that the WDNR used to classify our campus soils as contaminated are included with as a PDF attachment to these RFI responses. Further questions about VAMC soils should be directed to the WDNR and our BRRTs number 02-41-563846.

55 5-20-26

Are the profile lab analyses described above taken from past on-site excavation projects?

56 5-20-26

Please describe the locations where the samples described above were taken and how it was determined that these samples are representative of the remaining on-site soils.

All over the campus. Over the last decade, during previous excavations and earthwork, we were required to provide samples to the WDNR. Ultimately, based on the preponderance of the contamination, the WDNR established a BRRTS number for the campus and directed us to note that for future excavations and earthwork, all soils are to be classified as contaminated for landfill disposal.

57 5-20-26

Please provide the results and locations of any sampling performed in advance of this RFP along the length of the proposed duct bank.

See RFI #24 response.

58 5-20-26

What on-site lab sampling, surface and subsurface investigation requirements, if any, will the Contractor be required to perform prior to, concurrently, and after completion of excavation?

The GC does not have a responsibility to perform any soil sampling or investigations. VAMC Milwaukee treats existing soil spoils as contaminated, and it must be landfilled at a suitable and approved facility. Refer to specification 31 20 00 paragraph 3.5.

However, if GC elects to pay for their own sampling and testing and reporting – to verify that excavated soils are “clean” and suitable for clean fill – they may do so at their expense to save costs on landfilling. This sampling protocol and laboratory would require review by the government and the WDNR for approval. The GC’s base bid should assume all costs for proper landfill disposal of contaminated soil.

Coordinate sampling and testing protocol with WDNR.

Provide proof that WDNR has approved the sampling and testing protocol to VA before beginning this work if Contractor so chooses.

59 5-20-26

We are told to assume all soils are contaminated, but there has been no mention of contaminated groundwater.

Please describe previous site experience regarding groundwater sampling, necessary handling, and treatment for disposal to sanitary or storm sewer.

WDNR has noted no groundwater contamination at various groundwater monitoring wells. The Contractor will have no specific sampling, testing, handling or disposal requirements for groundwater other than typical to prevent solids from entering the storm sewer (silt fences, silt socks or similar).

60 5-20-26

Please confirm that the contaminated soils can be used as backfill over the duct bank however the last three feet to ground surface is to be 2 feet of imported soil followed by one foot of topsoil.

This is acceptable as long as soils are suitable for backfill.

61 5-20-26

Please confirm that the contaminated soils can be used as backfill over the duct bank and completely fill the trench if the trench will be covered by hard surface such as concrete or paving.

See RFI #60 response.

62 5-20-26

Excavators straddling and moving along the trench. Dump truck, concrete truck, and other heavy equipment will by their movement likely leave minor surface damage to grass and soils. At what point, if any, will the Contractor fix go beyond raking and spreading topsoil to removal of contaminated soils and replacement with imported soils?

Contractor shall repair all soils, landscaping, or grassy areas impacted by their work. This includes the open excavations for trenches and manholes, as well as the ruts or washouts produced by heavy equipment.

63 5-20-26

Is EMT allowed in the tunnels or is GRC required. Yes, EMT is allowed in tunnels.

64 5-20-26

Existing switchgear (B115) manufacture. VA will assume RFI wants “manufacturer”.

Eaton VacClad-W Metal-Clad Switchgear 478C642H15.

Eaton type: VC-W G.O.: MMK006365 item:5 S.O.:

72YN102 instructions: IB32-255-1

65 5-20-26

Who provides the VFD's and starters. The Mechanical Contractor is responsible for VFDs or motor starters.

66 5-20-26

What is the existing generator distribution panel manufacture (111-EP114)

VA will assume RFI wants “manufacturer”.

Cummins Power Generation PCIL 2003G-861F SN F120366856

67 5-20-26 5-21-26 Fire alarm system manufacture. VA will assume RFI wants “manufacturer”.

See RFI #15 response.

68 5-20-26

Security system manufacture? VA will assume RFI wants “manufacturer”.

Johnson Controls, Inc (JCI) is VAMC Milwaukee’s sole source security system vendor, integrator, programmer, and service provider. Division 28 infrastructure, to include hardware – card readers (with and without pinpads) – and software (CCure 9000 upgrades) shall be by JCI only and sole sourced. Point of contact at JCI is Scott Galaszewski

69 5-20-26

Can we work in all buildings during regular hours or are there restrictions.

Please refer to 01 00 00 paragraph 1.6.

70 5-20-26 5-21-26 Would you please confirm that sales / use taxes are to be included in the bid and the VA in Milwaukee is not tax exempt?

See RFI #6 response.

71 5-20-26 01 00 00 1.4 Project Management Team and 01 35 26 1.8

Staff – the Superintendent (s), SSHO and QCM all are required to be full-time on-site while any work is taking place, and all have to be employees of the Prime Contractor. If/when working multiple shifts, does each shift have to have these positions filled by 3 separate individuals? When data cabling occurs other than 1st shift, would the VA consider allowing the Prime Contractor to delegate the superintendent and SSHO duties to technology Competent persons with equal training and credentials similar to the Quality Control Manager?

Short answer is no.

The GC will be required to have an onsite Superintendent, an onsite SSHO, and an onsite QCM whenever there is work. These three professionals can be allocated across the campus if there are multiple jobsites or task locations. But each shall be available to the COR or any government representative during work by being onsite. Each jobsite/ task location does not need its own Supt/SSHO/QCM.

Alternate Superintendents, SSHOs, and QCMs may be necessary to support vacation(s) or sickness of said individuals.

72 5-20-26 5-21-26 What is the anticipated award date for this project? No later than the end of the Fiscal Year but exact date is unknown.

73 5-20-26 When is the “Notice to Proceed” anticipated to be issued? NTP will be issued following PCAC Post Award conference.

74 5-20-26 When is the anticipated “Start of Construction” for this project?

See RFI #73 response.

75 5-20-26 Current economic conditions have resulted in extended lead times on equipment. How will these extended lead times on necessary equipment be accounted for in the contract?

i. Will all materials be required to be on site prior to starting the project?

ii. Will the contract duration be extended to account for long lead time items? i.e. Cast Coil Transformers are 1-year plus out.

Referring to Bldg. 111, the work the transformer is associated with must be completed prior to starting any other work in Bldg. 111.

Please refer to specification 01 01 10-SN Article 3.40.

(i) No, materials should be purchased as they are needed. Further, in accordance with VAAR clause 852.232-

71 PAYMENTS UNDER FIXED-PRICE CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACTS (INCLUDING NAS– CPM) (NOV 2018) (d), the Contracting Officer (CO) will consider allowing payment for stored materials under such terms and conditions approved by the CO. The CO intends for this section of the clause to be applicable/limited to long lead items that were ordered to prevent schedule (Critical Path) slippage.

(ii) The Contracting Officer will approach changes caused by long lead items from a standpoint of reasonableness and a willingness to make/allow contractual changes if determined necessary (reference FAR Clause 52.243-4 CHANGES and FAR Clause 52.249-10 Default (Fixed-Price Construction) (b)).

76 5-20-26 Considering the number of staff required on this project, will an area be provided on the grounds or in a building for the contractor to use as a job office? Spec section 10-00- 00 1.18 says contractors field office – not used.

Regarding specification 01 00 00 article 1.18, the VA does not specify anything about your field office. However, you may provide a field office or job trailer at your cost. The government will leave that up to you. The VA will not provide internal space for you to set up an office in any of our buildings.

VA will allow the Contractor to set up a job trailer in the vicinity of our SPS Building (Bldg 102). Attached PDF shows site – exact location TBD. VA will provide power at no charge to the Contractor; however the Contractor bears the responsibility for connecting power, maintaining safe connection, and removing/restoring at the end of the project.

77 5-20-26 Is there a specific location for a site construction Staging

Area (and trailer if allowed), specifically for exterior site work? If so, would you please advise where it is located and how much area will be available for contractors use?

See RFI #19, #21, and #76 responses.

78 5-20-26 Please confirm the construction fence can be standard be

6’-0” tall in lieu of 7’0” as called for in the specifications.

A six (6ft) fence is satisfactory. Specification 01 00 00 article

1.6 has been modified and the changed specification is included as part of this Amendment.

79 5-20-26 The construction fence is required to have privacy screens, with the history of fences with screens blowing down on the Milwaukee campus, can this requirement be omitted?

Privacy screening for the construction fence may be omitted.

Specification 01 00 00 article 1.6 has been modified and the changed specification is included as part of this Amendment.

80 5-20-26 Is it acceptable to only fence in open excavations at the end of each workday or will the entire phase need to be fenced? Example running parallel to North Washington drive, West end, do we need to fence the entire run between lot entries?

The response to this RFI is “it depends”. Each location of open excavation will be presented to the VA in a workplan which will highlight size/scope of the excavation, timeframe for the work, traffic control needs, and security/safety fencing. VA will review each and provide comments and approvals after getting input from VA Police and others on campus.

Note: if/when not fenced, the Contractor shall ensure the site is properly controlled to prevent unauthorized persons from entering.

81 5-20-26 Will a Construction Fence be required around the staging area and trailer?

This will be coordinated with the awarded contractor during the pre-construction period. But, yes, the contractor shall protect his trailer and the staging/laydown area with construction fencing and appropriate signage.

82 5-20-26 Will the VA allow multiple open excavation locations at the same time if each location were properly fenced and supervised?

The response to this RFI is “it depends”. This depends on the impact to traffic and pedestrians and safety. Each location of open excavation that impacts traffic or pedestrians on the campus will require a work plan and traffic control plan. These plans will require review by the COR, the VA Police, and the Hospital Administration. In some instances the local Fire Departments have to be made aware of impacts to our existing roadways as well.

Certainly, there are some locations that can be excavated (with appropriate fencing, supervision, safety plans, AHAs, and approvals) concurrent with others. However, there will be some other locations where VA will not allow multiple open excavation locations.

83 5-20-26 The specifications say the soils are Contaminated, does that mean all soils are contaminated throughout the entire campus? If so, do all the spoils have to be taken to Waste Management – Orchard Ridge for disposal, dumping fees paid by the Contractor and manifest tickets accumulated and submitted at the end of the project? May the contractor store / stockpile contaminated spoils on site and periodically truck them to Orchard Ridge?

Yes, per WDNR and our BRRTS number 02-41-563846 all soil spoils from this campus must be treated as contaminated unless specific testing per WDNR protocol proves otherwise.

Yes (or similar, licensed landfill approved by WDNR).

Stockpiling of contaminated soils on our campus is not permitted. Temporary storage of soils that will be used to backfill trenches is acceptable as long as environmental protections are in place (silt fencing) to prevent soils from being washed out into the roadway or storm sewers.

See RFI #19 response.

84 5-20-26 The spoils produced by the VAC truck for potholing may not be accepted by WM as cover and may have to be disposed of as waste, does the contractor use the same profile provided by the VA for this type of disposal?

Yes.

85 5-20-26 Is it the contractor’s responsibility to replace the warning loop under the pavement at the parking lot gates?

Yes.

86 5-20-26 There are trees shown to be removed, do they need to be replaced? If so, what type, size, warranty etc. will be required at each tree removed?

No.

N/A.

87 5-20-26 When excavating through the water retention area north of

Parking Structure 7, does the back fill required have a specific soil and or make up? Are there specific plants or grasses required?

Approved planting submittal for the water retention basin north of Parking Structure Lot 7 is attached at the end of this RFI response document so that the low Contractor may coordinate soils and plantings that may need to be replaced.

88 5-20-26 Curb details show a vertical curb without a pan, is this what is desired in all locations even if a different type of curb was removed? (detail 2/100-CK100)

Curb shall be replaced back as what was removed/ demolished. Detail has been updated in Amendment #4 drawings.

89 5-20-26 5-21-26 Have soil borings been taken? If so, will the results be published in an amendment?

See RFI #24 response.

90 5-20-26 5-21-26 At the site walk through, 9x9 floor tile were observed in existing spaces to be remodeled, has there been an asbestos survey completed of all the areas of work and will that be provided in an amendment?

See RFI #47 response.

91 5-20-26 Are Infection Control Anti-Rooms required at all Infection

Control set-ups?

For your base bid, yes. The GC’s base bid should include full anterooms with 1-hour rated walls at each work location for infection control and to establish a construction barrier between patients/staff and the contractors.

The GC has the responsibility to review each jobsite location and submit an Infection Control plan that describes their approach to achieve both infection control and a proper 1-hr rated construction barrier. There will be DOZENS of unique workplans and infection control plans on this project.

The GC shall refer to specification 01 35 26 article 1.13 and its appendices regarding pre-construction risk assessments (and permits) and infection control risk assessments (and permits).

Upon receipt of a new workplan and infection control plan, the VA COR and IP may relax the requirements from CLASS IV (anteroom and rated hard barrier required) to CLASS III or even CLASS II. Anterooms are not required in CLASS III or II construction. ICRA permits are required for CLASS III and CLASS IV construction.

92 5-20-26 Is Edge guard acceptable to use for Infection Control barriers?

Edge-Guard (or similar) barriers are acceptable for CLASS III or CLASS II construction barriers (walls and doors). They are not acceptable for CLASS IV barriers unless they can be shown to be 1-hour fire rated.

93 5-20-26 Does all negative air have to be exhausted outside or are

HEPA Scrubbers allowed?

It is in GC’s best interests to exhaust negative air outside at all times. VA existing exhaust ductwork is no longer allowed to be connected to for negative (construction) air discharge.

If the GC cannot feasibly reach an exterior wall or window for a negative air discharge, a HEPA scrubber and equivalent ICRA control measure to include GC-provided particle counting is required.

The GC shall refer to the last page of Appendix B of the 01 35 26 Safety Specification titled “Appendix A: Alternative to Outdoor Exhaust Requirements”. Please note that this last page has been modified as part of the amendment (yellow highlighted section). The revised document is included in Amendment #4.

94 5-20-26

In section 01 00 00 1.14.E, says to submit final and consolidated as-built pdf package upon completion of work in accordance with section 01 33 23 submittals, RFI’s and CB’s, but it doesn’t say anything about hard copies, will hard copies be required?

The GC will have to coordinate with the COR and the Architect/Engineer (AE). Typically, the GC provides the COR with the marked up redlines of the contract drawings showing any minor deviation to placement of walls or infrastructure that did not require a contract modification.

The COR will forward these “redlines” to the AE who will utilize them and the approved Construction Bulletins to create a full as-built drawing set for the VA (our record drawings).

The GC has no responsibility for formal hardcopy of final as-built record drawings.

95 5-20-26 In section 01 00 00 1.14.C says contractor shall submit monthly as-built drawings with the monthly pay requests, should the monthly drawings and/or as-built reports be submitted as a pdf (electronically) or will hard copies be required? This section also references 01 35 26 paragraph 1.10.C. but this section does not exist, please advise.

Electronically only via OpCenter submittal. COR admits this is new process for this project (this monthly roll up submittal that consists of many monthly requirements). We’ll work through it together as COR expects growing pains.

Regarding the missing section in specification 01 00 00, that has been corrected in the revised specification included in Amendment #4. It should refer you to 01 35 26 paragraph 1.11.C.

96 5-20-26 Section 01 00 00 1.32 Photographic Documentation – this section requires a Commercial Photographer (3rd party subcontractor) to provide all photo documentation throughout the entire project including electronic indexing, navigation, storage, and remote access to the documentation. The training specification section also requires a Professional Photographer to video record all training sessions. If the Prime Contractor can demonstrate their ability to provide indexing, navigation, storage and remote access to the documentation, would the VA allow the Prime Contractor to do this work with their own employees?

No.

The Prime Contractor (GC) shall not fulfill this role. Follow the specification.

97 5-20-26 Section 01 00 00 1.32.B.3. Photographic Documentation –

Construction progress for all trades shall be tracked at pre-determined intervals, but not less than once every thirty

(30) calendar days (called progressions). Progression Documentation shall track both the exterior and interior construction. Exterior Progression shall track 360 degrees around the site. Interior Progressions shall track interior improvements beginning when stud work commences and continuing until completion. Does the VA expect to change the pre-determined intervals for progression photos of each trade more often than every 30 calendar days, or is the requirement every 30 days during construction activities?

COR will expect photographic documentation per this specification to document the work at significant milestones.

If work/task duration is less than 30 days, then absolutely there will be opportunities for construction progress photos more frequently.

98 5-20-26 Reference 01 81 13, sustainable construction and reporting is required on this project. Does the VA expect the Recycled and Biobased Content spreadsheet shown at the end of this section to be completed and submitted once, or can the sustainable information be included with each subcontractors submittal and tracked on the sheet when approved?

This spreadsheet should be completed and submitted just once. Preferably during the pre-construction period or very early in the construction period. The GC shall coordinate with all subcontractors and provide this submittal.

99 5-20-26 Will crane picks for the rigging of equipment and materials be restricted to federal holidays and weekends?

Yes – for the base bid, the GC shall assume crane picks and lifts will be restricted to holidays and weekends. The GC will provide a crane lift plan (critical or non-critical, as applies) for each required lift. Depending upon the location, the VA may elect to perform the task during the work-week or even on-shift.

100 5-20-26

Is a Third Party Fire Penetration inspector required? If so, will they be hired by the contractor or the VA? Or will all Fire Penetration Inspections be conducted by the VA personnel?

The GC shall retain the services of a third-party fire penetration inspector. This subcontractor will be responsible for fire/smoke wall penetration inspections and reports to the GC. Submit the qualifications of this third-party vendor for VA review and approval.

The VA will also perform same inspections.

101 5-20-26 How will existing penetrations in Fire Rated Walls be remediated? Will the VA shops repair / remediate any existing penetrations that are not properly sealed?

The GC shall include in his base bid necessary labor and materials to ensure that existing walls – expected to be used as construction barriers – are 1-hour fire rated. The GC shall assume 2 vertical feet of wall area (above ceiling to concrete deck) and the linear feet of wall(s) to be used shall require minor repairs, patching or fire-caulking.

There will be no contract modifications for restoration or fire caulking of construction barriers or infection control barriers.

VA shops will not participate in restoration of walls above ceiling or with fire caulking.

Utilize the SOC and Life Safety Drawings to establish wall ratings. Coordinate with the COR.

102 5-20-26 Reference 09 91 00 Painting, are sample panels required or will draw down samples suffice?

COR does not require sample panels. Paint sample drawdowns are OK via a traditional sample submittal.

103 5-20-26 Do the MEPF contractors need to include a specific number of hours for training? If so please advise the number of hours required?

Meet the specification. Plan for at least one 4-hour training session.

104 5-20-26 Will flexible conduit be allowed in areas where ridged would be difficult to install?

The use of hospital-grade flexible conduit is significantly restricted, and the specification is correct. Lighting whips (6ft max), under cabinet lighting, and when installed in custom millwork only.

105 5-20-26 If or when above ceiling conflicts or needed demolition are found with existing MEP’s that are not shown on the drawing and not able to be investigated at the walk thru, how are these to be handled?

GC has a responsibility to notify the COR via the RFI process with narrative, pictures and marked up drawings so that VA and AE team can make determination as quickly as possible. Contractor shall propose a solution in every RFI.

VA will respond and either issue contract modification for the GC to perform the additional investigations/work or will engage with VA shops staff to resolve the condition.

106 5-20-26 Spec Section 27 13 23 – Communications Optical Fiber

Backbone Cabling calls for OS2 riser fiber to be loose-tube, gel-filled. Since gel-filled loose-tube fiber is no longer widely manufactured or readily available, and the industry has generally transitioned to dry water-blocked designs, please confirm that indoor/outdoor rated, loose-tube, dry water-blocked OS2 fiber is acceptable in lieu of the specified gel-filled fiber?

Yes. Indoor/outdoor rated, loose-tube, dry water-blocked OS2 fiber is acceptable in lieu of the specified gel-filled fiber.

Note: Communications Multipurpose Cable, Plenum (CMP) shall be used if any portion of the cable passes through an NEC-defined plenum. Communications Multipurpose Cable, Riser (CMR) shall be specified for all other applications.

CMP may be used as a substitute for CMR, but not the other way around.

Specifications have been updated in Amendment #4.

107 5-20-26 Section 01 00 00 1.12 Professional Surveying Services – the scope of work specified for the licensed professional land surveyor may require more than one person, Full-time during the excavation and concrete duct package installation, backfill and restoration throughout the campus.

Besides the documentation required for all existing utilities encountered, at what intervals and/or how often does the VA want elevation recordings of the conduit and concrete duct? Does the VA expect bottom of concrete duct and top of concrete duct at each of these intervals? Can the final topographic survey “as-builts” of all the areas disturbed be completed one time at the end of the sitework on campus or does the VA require topo surveys at certain intervals (if so, how often)?

Location of duct bank to be recorded at any directional change by either shooting the above ground feature (manhole/handhole) or the top of duct bank at a directional change. Directional changes include grade breaks. Critical information is location and bury depth.