S06 - Amendment 0006 - ATT 1 - TechQuestionsVAresponses Partial 3 - Huntington EHRM IU.pdf

TECHNICAL QUESTIONS AND SOLICITATION #: 36C77626R0025

RESPONSES TRACKING SHEET PROJECT TITLE: EHRM Construct Infrastructure Upgrade – Huntington, WV

36C77626R0025

# CONTRACTOR QUESTION VA RESPONSE

1 Is there a proprietary Fire Alarm Contractor at the facility? If so, please provide the company name and point of contact.

Edwards EST 4 equipment for the system

2 Is there a proprietary Controls Contractor at the facility? If so, please provide the company name and point of contact.

Johnson Controls JCI

3 Is there a proprietary Cameras at the facility? If so, please provide the company name and point of contact.

Currently S-com electronic specialty- cameras are currently avigilon

4 For tech requirements, concerning page limitations: Can you confirm that (CPARS/PPQs, Draft Project Schedule, etc.) does not count towards page limitations?

Please see the instruction to offerors for these details and requirements.

5 Please provide a basis of design (Manufacturer and product) for the anti-static coating listed in the room finish schedule

AE clarifies that product contractor choses has to meet performance specifications stated in spec 09 66 00

6 Please confirm all design alerts have been integrated into the project drawings and specifications.

Confirmed

7 Reference specification section 01 35 26 – 17 Paragraph

1.9 Site Safety and Health Officer.

a. Please confirm that the prime contractor must provide a full-time SSHO and the SSHO must be a separate person from the superintendent and QC manager

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

8 Will the VA allow for another round of RFI’s? No

9 Can the VA provide a bid extension? An amendment will be posted to detail this information

# CONTRACTOR QUESTION VA RESPONSE

10 Please confirm that offerors are to include sales tax for both locations. Please see solicitation instruction and tax exemption instructions

11 Specification: 01 45 00 Topic: Prime contractor's field staff Please confirm that the roles of project superintendent, SSHO, and CQC system manager must be filled by (3) separate persons

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

12 Sheet: Enlarged TR/TE architectural plans Specification: 06 10 00 Topic: Fire-rated plywood Please clarify extent of plywood in TRs - are all walls to receive new fire-rated plywood, including furred wall column bump-outs & chase walls?

AE confirms that walls indicated that are to receive new fire-rated plywood in indicated with a keynote on there respective drawings

13 Sheet: Architectural phasing plans, 4/A-604 Specification: 10 44 13 Topic: Fire extinguishers Please clarify fire extinguisher class, rating & sizes (e.g. 10lb 15lb, etc.).

AE clarifies that 2A:10B:C is to be used and dry chemical extinguishers are not permitted.

14 Sheet: M-Sheets Specification: 23 09 23 Topic: BAS Who is the current temperature controls contractor servicing/maintaining the BAS?

JCI is the HVAC controls service provider

15 Sheet: M-Sheets Specification: 23 09 23 Topic: BAS Who is the current systems integrator servicing/maintaining the BAS?

JCI is the HVAC controls service provider

16 Sheet: T-Sheets Specification: 28 13 00 Topic: PACS manufacturer/contractor What is the campus standard PACS manufacturer and who is the current contractor servicing/maintaining the system?

S-com electronic specialty- cameras are currently avigilon

17 Sheet: T-Sheets Specification: 28 13 00 Topic: PACS head-end capacity Please confirm that the PACS head-ends will have enough capacity to add additional Controlled Security Scheme doors.

Confirm PACS system head ends are being provided.

18 Sheet: T-Sheets Specification: 28 23 00 Topic: Surveillance manufacturer/contractor What is the campus standard Surveillance manufacturer and who is the current contractor servicing/maintaining the system?

S-com electronic specialty- cameras are currently avigilon

19 Sheet: T-Sheets Specification: 28 31 00 Topic: Fire Alarm manufacturer/contractor What is the campus standard Fire Alarm manufacturer and who is the current contractor servicing/maintaining the system?

Edwards EST 4 equipment for the system

20 Specification: 04 20 00 Topic: Unit Masonry There is no block/brick masonry scope shown (aside from the brick tile rainscreen, which is covered under specification 07 40 00). Please clarify what, if any, unit masonry scope is applicable.

Confirms there unit masonry scope not applicable

21 Sheet: TN510 Specification: Division 27 Topic: OSP/ISP Fiber Please confirm that only air-blown fiber microducts may be used for OSP/ISP fiber distribution, and not flexible fabric innerducts.

It is up to the Contractor to bid either air assisted fiber or manually placed fiber. Either method is acceptable to the VA as long as all other requirements are met like conduit fill ratio, number of strands and fiber rated jackets that are suited for indoor/outdoor applications.

22 Sheet: CS100 Specification: 01 00 00 Topic: Contractor trailer/laydown areas Are there designated areas for contractor trailers and laydown? Please indicate acceptable locations.

Contractor to provide off site laydown yard. A space will be provided for an onsite trailer for the contractor. The contractor will have access to electrical hook up for their trailer.

23 Working hours, shutdowns, and testing notice matrix:

Please provide one consolidated, project-wide matrix that defines all allowable working hours, after-hours approval requirements, shutdown notice periods, testing notice periods, startup notice periods, and cutover notice periods for each affected system and activity type. The matrix shall clearly identify any differences between normal work, off- hours work, weekend work, and work impacting occupied or critical areas, and shall be the single governing basis for bidder pricing, scheduling, and sequencing.

After hours approval is no less then 10 days prior, however the contractor should show this work on the construction schedule to coordination after hours work.

Shutdown notices: 14 Calander days

Migration of existing equipment: 14 calendar days prior to migration

Start up/ Testing: 14 calendar days prior

Hotwork: provide hotwork permit request 14 calendar days

24 Basis of bid for working hours and notice requirements:

In the absence of a complete and coordinated matrix defining working hours, shutdown notice periods, and testing or cutover requirements, please confirm the specific basis of bid bidders are to assume for labor hours, sequencing, approval durations, and any required off-hours or phased work.

After hours approval is no less then 10 days prior, however the contractor should show this work on the construction schedule to coordination after hours work.

Shutdown notices: 14 Calander days

Migration of existing equipment: 14 calendar days prior to migration

Start up/ Testing: 14 calendar days prior

Hotwork: provide hotwork permit request 14 calendar days

25 Bid basis if working-hour requirements change after award:

If the Government establishes a bid basis for working hours, notice periods, and owner-coordination durations in response to RFIs or amendment, please confirm whether any later requirement that materially differs from that stated bid basis will be issued by written contract modification.

After hours approval is no less then 10 days prior, however the contractor should show this work on the construction schedule to coordination after hours work.

Shutdown notices: 14 Calander days

Migration of existing equipment: 14 calendar days prior to migration

Start up/ Testing: 14 calendar days prior

Hotwork: provide hotwork permit request 14 calendar days

26 Reconciliation of superintendent and CQC System Manager roles:

Section 01 45 00 requires the CQC Plan to include a CQC System Manager that reports to the project superintendent, but that same section also states the CQC System Manager may have duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control. Please reconcile these provisions and confirm whether one individual may serve as both Project Superintendent and CQC System Manager on this project.

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

27 Dedicated onsite CQC System Manager during active construction:

Given the required three-phase control process, continuous site presence requirements for the CQC staff, and the number of definable features of work across multiple disciplines and buildings, please confirm whether the Government expects a dedicated onsite CQC System Manager separate from the onsite Project Superintendent during active construction.

The contractor does not have to maintain full time coverage of the CQC professional, however a detailed CQC plan with typical coverage times and inspections must be approved by the COR.

28 Full-time separate SSHO requirement:

Please confirm that the SSHO for this project is required to be a separate full-time onsite individual with no other duties and may not also serve as Project Superintendent or CQC System Manager.

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

29 Minimum onsite management staffing during active construction:

Given the occupied multi-building phasing, ICRA requirements, outage coordination, and uninterrupted essential operations associated with this project, please confirm whether the Government expects a minimum onsite management staff of three separate individuals consisting of Project Superintendent, CQC System Manager, and SSHO during active construction operations.

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

30 Staffing expectations during concurrent workfronts:

When multiple buildings, floors, phases, or definable features of work are active at the same time, please confirm whether the Government expects additional onsite management or QC staffing beyond the minimum baseline staffing otherwise required by the contract.

The station does not take exception to superintendent’s performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

31 Staffing expectation during outages and cutovers:

During active outage, cutover, shutdown, and re- energization activities involving occupied buildings or essential systems, please confirm whether the Government expects separate onsite coverage by Project Superintendent, CQC System Manager, and SSHO during those operations.

The station does not take exception to superintendents performing SSHO duties, however the CQC qualified individual will not hold dual responsibilities. All qualified people must submit qualifications for each role per the specifications.

32 Staffing expectation during ICRA-controlled work:

During active ICRA-controlled construction operations in occupied areas, please confirm whether the Government expects separate onsite coverage by Project Superintendent, CQC System Manager, and SSHO to manage field execution, quality compliance, and safety compliance concurrently.

No, however it is the responsibility of the contractor to ensure all ICRA requirements, safety standards and protocol are met by subs.

33 Archaeological requirements and bid basis:

Please identify any additional archaeological, cultural resource, or agency-coordination requirements bidders are to include in the base bid beyond the documents currently issued, including any monitoring, permit, or work-restriction requirements applicable to the mountainside route, tower areas, courtyard/data center area, or staging/access areas.

No archaeological or cultural resources are expected, however the contractor will report any findings to the COR at time of discovery for assessment and determination.

34 NHPA Section 106 clearance status:

Please confirm whether the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) Section 106 review process has been completed for all project areas, including the mountainside duct bank route, tower foundation areas, courtyard/data center work area, and any associated staging or access areas. Please provide documentation of SHPO concurrence and final clearance.

Duct bank routing has been adjusted away from the hillside. No further coordination was required for approval. See above responses for actions if historical artifacts are uncovered.

35 NHPA Section 106 status and bid basis:

If NHPA Section 106 review is not complete for all project areas, please identify the current status, the remaining review steps, and the bid basis bidders are to carry for access, sequencing, monitoring, or work restrictions pending final clearance.

Duct bank routing has been adjusted away from the hillside. No further coordination was required for approval. See above responses for actions if historical artifacts are uncovered.

36 Escort and access requirements:

Please identify all escort, badge, and access restrictions by building and phase, including whether escorts are Government-provided, the hours escorts are available, and any limits on simultaneous crews or worker movement that bidders are to carry in the base bid.

As of now, the contractors will require either IT personnel or the VA Project Manager or COR to escort them while working on existing IT rooms.

37 Bid basis for access restrictions:

Please confirm the bid basis bidders are to use for labor productivity, crew sizing, and supervision associated with escort requirements and restricted-access conditions.

As of now, the contractors will require either IT personnel or the VA Project Manager or COR to escort them while working on existing IT rooms.

38 Telecom cable length validation per HEFP alert:

Please provide the owner or designer validated cable distance study for each telecommunications room service area demonstrating compliance with the 90 meter fixed cabling limit.

The distance from the TR to all WAOs to be terminated there meet the maximum of 295 feet allowed by the TIA standards. Should due to unforseen obstacles this maximum cannot be achieved the Contractor shall notify the VA immediately.

39 Telecom cable length validation — design remedies and bid basis:

Please confirm that the validated cable distance study and any identified design remedies required to maintain compliance with the 90 meter fixed cabling limit shall be used as the basis for bidder pricing and system layout.

The distance from the TR to all WAOs to be terminated there meet the maximum of 295 feet allowed by the TIA standards. Should due to unforseen obstacles this maximum cannot be achieved the Contractor shall notify the VA immediately.

40 Non-project abandoned cabling:

Please confirm responsibility for identifying, removing, disposing of, and restoring conditions associated with non- project abandoned cabling encountered in shared pathways, risers, ceilings, and telecommunications rooms during execution of this project.

The scope of this project includes removal of OIT category cables to existing WAOs and within cable trays or routing paths. Should the Contractor encounter abandoned cables that are not supporting the WAOS or unknown cables the contractor shall inform the VA COR for further direction.

41 Pathway coordination responsibility with owner- contractor trades in shared spaces:

Please confirm whether any separately procured owner or VA contractors will be performing work concurrently in shared pathways, telecommunications rooms, ceiling spaces, or risers during the period of performance of this contract. If so, please identify the responsible party for coordinating pathway access, fill sequencing, and space allocation between this contract and any concurrent owner work.

VA COR will be the point of contact and primary coordinator for shared access and coordination with other projects on campus.

42 Division ownership of communications outlet backboxes and raceway from outlet to accessible ceiling space:

Section 26 05 33 requires complete raceway systems for all wiring, Section 27 05 33 states that all conduit, fittings, and boxes to form raceway systems for communications cabling will be provided by the contractor, and the telecommunications drawings require a new 1-1/4 inch conduit from new backbox to accessible ceiling space where an existing data outlet does not exist. Please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install the communications outlet backbox, outlet box/device ring, conduit stub, and raceway from the communications outlet to accessible ceiling space for new or relocated Division 27 outlets.

Division 27 05 33.

43 Division ownership of communications pull boxes, conduit bodies, and sleeves required solely for Division 27 pathway routing:

The telecommunications drawings require pull boxes at 100-foot intervals and require conduits and sleeves as needed for routing and installation of horizontal and backbone cabling. Please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install pull boxes, conduit bodies, horizontal sleeves, vertical sleeves, and similar pathway appurtenances required solely to route Division 27 horizontal and backbone communications cabling between work area outlets, telecommunications rooms, entrance rooms, TDU spaces, and MDA spaces.

Sheet TNG001 note 19 establishes the pull boxes and requirements for the Division 27 category 6A cabling.

44 Division ownership of fire-stop sleeves and firestopping associated only with communications penetrations:

The telecommunications drawings require fire-stop sleeves, require A-side and B-side sleeves to be separated by at least 10 feet, and require fire-stop materials in and around conduit for communications pathway penetrations. Please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install the fire-stop sleeves and associated firestopping for penetrations made solely for Division 27 communications raceways and cabling

Division 27 05 33 Conduits and Backboxes for Communications Systems shall be used for Fire stop sleeves. Also please see sheet 01STN400Ba detail 4 as an example. Further, Specification Section 07 84 00 Firestopping shall provide guidance for the requirements of firestopping around any penetrations.

45 Division ownership of communications cable tray, ladder rack, tray dividers, and segregation hardware:

The telecommunications drawings require wire basket cable tray, fiber backbone cable tray above the horizontal distribution tray, and tray dividers as needed to segregate data cabling from security, fire alarm, nurse call, and other special systems. Please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install communications cable tray, ladder rack, tray supports, tray dividers, and other pathway segregation hardware serving Division 27 cabling within telecommunications rooms, entrance rooms, MDA/TDU spaces, and the data center.

Specification Section 27 05 33 and 27 05 36 both govern the requirements for this project.

46 Division ownership of rack-mounted telecom power protection equipment:

Section 27 11 26 states that all power distribution and interconnections supporting equipment deployed in telecommunications spaces will be provided by the contractor and includes zone PDUs, rack-mounted UPS units, and rack PDUs. Please confirm whether Division 27 is intended to furnish and install all zone PDUs, rack-mounted UPS units, rack PDUs, interconnecting cords, and other rack-level power protection devices within telecommunications rooms and the data center, with Division 26 limited to building power infrastructure upstream of that equipment unless otherwise noted.

Specification section 27 11 26 applies to all TR locations. Division 26 33 53 applies to UPS support systems for the MCR.

47 Division ownership of source A/B receptacles, junction boxes, branch circuits, and feeders that serve telecom rack power equipment:

The telecom power details show source A and source B receptacles, recessed junction boxes, and A/B power arrangements serving telecom rack power equipment. Please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install the source A/B receptacles, recessed junction boxes, branch circuits, feeders, transformers, breakers, and terminations that feed the Division 27 rack- mounted power protection equipment in telecommunications rooms and the data center.

This is up to contractor discretion to separate work based on Divisions 26, 27, 28.

48 Division ownership of line-voltage power and power supplies serving access control panels and ESS equipment in telecommunications spaces:

Because access control panels are shown inside telecommunications rooms and the data center, and Section 27 11 26 assigns telecom equipment power distribution to the contractor, please confirm which specification division is intended to furnish and install the 120V branch circuits, line-voltage connections, control transformers, external power supplies, lock power supplies, disconnects, and other line voltage power components serving Division 28 access control panels and ESS equipment located within telecommunications rooms and data center spaces.

This is up to contractor discretion to separate work based on Divisions 26, 27, 28.

49 Division responsibility for testing, certification, commissioning participation, and turnover of integrated 26, 27, and 28 systems in telecom rooms and the data center:

Please confirm the intended division responsibility for certification testing, startup, pre-functional checklists, commissioning participation, deficiency correction, labeling, and turnover documentation for integrated Division 26, 27, and 28 systems in telecommunications rooms and the data center, including rack power equipment, access control panels, bonding systems, and all interfaces between building power and telecom or ESS equipment.

Contractor shall read division 26, 27, and 28 for all requirements.

50 Existing data center equipment disposition:

Please identify each existing and relocated data center item shown on the plans as remain, relocate, reconnect, remove, or abandon in place, including unidentified equipment, panels, telecom boards, surge modules, alarm equipment, and related components, so bidders have a complete demolition and relocation basis.

Reference electrical plans 01EL400Ga-1B through 01EG400Gf-2B.

For additional information reference associated telecommunications plans for the data center. Equipment to be relocated, demolished, or otherwise shown on other discipline drawings shall have raceways and conductors demolished back to source.

51 Existing data center equipment trade ownership:

Please identify the responsible trade for each existing and relocated data center item shown on the plans, including electrical, telecom, security, controls, and owner vendor equipment, so there is no ambiguity in subcontract scope assignment.

With the exception of the active electronics in the data center, The Contractor shall be responsible for coordinating and determining the appropriate subcontractor assignments for all existing and relocated data center items shown on the plans, including electrical, telecommunications, security, and controls equipment.

52 Grounding and bonding acceptance criteria:

Please provide the complete acceptance criteria for grounding and bonding in the data center and telecom rooms, including required test values, acceptable test methods, pass or fail criteria, and required documentation for final acceptance.

Reference specification 26 05 26, 27 05 26, and 28 05 26 for grounding and bonding requirements. Reference Data center grounding and bonding sheets 01EG400Ga-1B through 01EG400Gf- 2B for additional information.

53 SBB and SBC scope:

Please clarify the complete required scope for SBB and SBC work in the data center and telecom rooms, including exact locations, routing assumptions, connection points, and whether relocated or existing busbars may be reused.

Reference electrical drawings for bonding and grounding scope.

Reference the Telecommunications bonding riser diagram on sheets EG601 through EG604 and detail sheets EP504 and EP505 for additional information.

54 Cable tray bonding:

Please clarify the required scope, method, frequency, and final responsible trade for bonding overhead cable tray systems in the data center and telecom rooms, including bonding across tray sections, fittings, supports, and transitions

Reference specification 27 05 26 for grounding and bonding requirements. Reference detail sheet EP504 for additional information.

55 ESD flooring bonding:

Please clarify the required bonding method, installation requirements, manufacturer coordination, and responsible trade for the electrostatic discharge flooring system in the data center so bidders can accurately include the full grounding interface scope.

AE clarifies that the required bonding method, installation requirements, manufacturer coordination is stated in spec section 09 66 00

56 Witness requirements for grounding and bonding:

Please identify all required witness points, advance notice requirements, and approving parties for grounding and bonding inspections and tests associated with the data center and telecom rooms.

Tower and data center grounding shall be inspected prior to encasing grounds in concrete. Inspection, and documentation (with photos), will be provided to the VA project manager for approval to continue work.

57 Prior-phase as-builts and bid reliance:

Please provide as-builts, approved submittals, and available closeout records for all previous-phase systems to which this contract must connect, and confirm whether those documents are to be treated as governing bid information or as informational only.

Please see contract drawings for conditions at design for this project.

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to confirm on site conditions once award is made.

58 Bid basis for differing prior-phase conditions:

Please confirm whether bidders may rely on the depicted prior-phase tie-in conditions shown in the contract documents as the bid basis without additional pre-bid destructive investigation, and identify how the Government intends to address prior-phase conditions that differ materially from the contract documents.

Please see contract drawings for conditions at design for this project.

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to confirm on site conditions once award is made.

59 Non-interruptible systems and equipment:

Please identify all systems and equipment the Government considers non-interruptible during construction, and confirm whether the Government will issue a written list that will govern for the duration of the contract.

Given the scope of this project, the VA does not see any non-interruptible systems. However, all outages and interruptions must be requested and proper channels notified prior to work to ensure limited impact to operations.

60 Allowable outage windows:

Please provide the allowable outage windows for each affected system, including normal power, emergency power, telecom, security, fire alarm, controls, and related support systems, and identify whether approved outage windows may be cancelled or rescheduled by the VA after confirmation.

Outages will be approved as needed by station and stakeholders

61 Temporary power and tie-ins in base bid:

Please confirm whether temporary power systems, temporary tie-ins, temporary feeders, temporary controls, and any other means necessary to maintain non-interruptible loads are fully included in the base bid scope or whether any portion will be owner-provided.

Outages will be approved as needed by station and stakeholders

62 Expansion joint treatment at tower interfaces:

Please provide the complete required detail for floor and wall expansion-joint treatment at telecom tower tie-ins, including structural, waterproofing, air barrier, firestopping, and finish transition requirements where tower construction interfaces with the existing buildings.

AE clarifies that details requested are on sheet 01SA-105e - 01SA- 106a

63 Roof membrane type by location:

Please identify the roof membrane type at each affected roof penetration or patch location associated with the data center and tower work so bidders know the actual roof system to be matched at each location.

AE is determining roof membrane penetrations

64 Required patch and flashing method:

Please provide the required patching, flashing, detailing, and sequencing method for each roof penetration and roof repair location affected by this project, including any location-specific distinctions between systems.

AE clarifies that these details are included on sheet A-604 and 01S-A-

65 Warranty preservation requirements for roof work:

Please identify all warranty preservation requirements for roof penetrations and patches, including whether the work must be performed by the existing roofing installer, a manufacturer-authorized subcontractor, or another approved specialty installer.

Defer to VA Station for roof manufacturer and warranty information

66 Required witness points:

Please identify every required witness point for commissioned systems, including inspections, startups, pre- functional checklists, functional testing, integrated testing, and final acceptance activities, along with the responsible witnessing party.

Please reference 01 91 specification. Commissioning

67 Mountainside duct bank routing and bid basis:

The contract drawings depict the fiber duct bank routing directly between the upper and lower campus areas in a straight-line alignment.

Based on site conditions and the topography shown in the contract documents, portions of this alignment appear to traverse steep or limited access terrain that may not be reasonably accessible for standard excavation, installation, and restoration activities. Please confirm whether bidders may base their proposal on routing the duct bank along existing roadways or other accessible corridors in lieu of the depicted straight-line alignment. If such an accessible routing is permitted or required, please confirm that bidders shall include the full routing length and associated installation impacts in the base bid, and that no credit or deduction will be required if the final approved routing differs from the alignment shown on the drawings

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

68 Mountainside duct bank access:

Given the topography and limited access conditions along the depicted duct bank route between the upper and lower campus areas, please identify the intended means of access and construction for this work.

Specifically, please confirm whether bidders shall assume conventional excavation equipment access, specialized equipment, temporary access roads, hand excavation, clearing and grubbing or other methods for installation of the duct bank along this route.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

69 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please confirm the required bid basis for excavation along the duct bank route between the upper and lower campus areas. Specifically, please confirm whether bidders are to assume standard soil excavation only for bidding purposes, and that no allowance for rock, boulders, or shallow bedrock removal is to be included in the base bid unless explicitly identified in the contract documents.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

70 Mountainside duct bank access:

In the event rock, boulders, or shallow bedrock are encountered along the duct bank route between the upper and lower campus areas that require mechanical or controlled removal methods, please confirm that such conditions will be treated as differing site conditions and addressed in accordance with the contract provisions.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

71 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please identify the required slope stabilization and erosion control measures associated with installation of the duct bank along the mountainside route between the upper and lower campus areas, including any requirements for terracing, retaining systems, matting, geotextiles, or other stabilization methods. Please confirm whether bidders are to include all such measures necessary to maintain slope stability and environmental compliance in the base bid.

72 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please identify the required slope stabilization and erosion control measures associated with installation of the duct bank along the mountainside route between the upper and lower campus areas, including any requirements for terracing, retaining systems, matting, geotextiles, or other stabilization methods. Please confirm whether bidders are to include all such measures necessary to maintain slope stability and environmental compliance in the base bid.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

73 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please confirm the required trench configuration, depth, and installation tolerances for the duct bank along steep or sloped terrain between the upper and lower campus areas. Please also confirm whether any deviations from standard trenching practices, including stepped trenching, benching, or alternate installation methods, are required or permitted in these conditions.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

74 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please identify the required assumptions for material delivery, staging, and hauling associated with the duct bank installation between the upper and lower campus areas, including whether materials may be delivered directly to the workface or must be transferred through intermediate staging areas. Please confirm whether multiple handling, restricted haul routes, or limited access conditions are to be included in the base bid.

75 Mountainside duct bank access:

Please identify the full restoration requirements associated with duct bank installation along the mountainside route, including grading, seeding, erosion repair, roadway or shoulder restoration, and any requirements for restoring disturbed areas to existing or improved conditions. Please confirm whether bidders are to include all restoration associated with access limitations and slope disturbance in the base bid.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

76 Bid basis for new mountainside duct bank and Conduit:

Please confirm whether bidders shall assume new underground duct bank and new conduit for the entire mountainside backbone route and clearly identify the intended bid basis for both A-side and B- side routing.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

77 Reuse of existing conduit or pathways on the mountainside route:

Please confirm whether any portion of the new mountainside backbone route is intended to reuse existing conduit or existing communications pathways adjacent to the current lines.

This routing has been adjusted away from the mountain side. The new path will be published with the addendum drawings.

78 New building entry pathway requirements for backbone fiber:

Please identify any building, telecom room, entrance room, or data room under this contract that requires a new building-entry pathway, new core-drilled penetration, or new waterproofed building- entry assembly for backbone fiber because a usable existing building entry pathway is not available at that location.

See civil site plan for fiber landing locations for building entry pathways. See sheet CU502 for typical penetration details. Reference specifications for additional information.

79 MCR footing depth bid basis:

Please confirm that bidders are to carry the MCR footing depth at 2 feet 6 inches as depicted on the structural detail and use that depth as the bid basis for the MCR foundation work.

Please use depths indicated on contract documents for basis of bid.

80 Temporary 1-hour rated doors at phasing and ICRA Openings:

Please confirm whether bidders are required to include temporary 1-hour rated self-closing doors at all phasing and ICRA openings where a temporary 1-hour separation is required, or only at the specific locations explicitly shown on the drawings.

AE confirms that this is only for specific locations explicitly shown and taged with Keynote 10

81 Temporary exterior closures between phases:

Please confirm the bid basis for temporary exterior weather- tight walls, partitions, infill, or opening protection required between phases at the new data center work, TR tower work, and other areas where phased construction leaves openings exposed to weather or occupied space.

AE confirms that contractor to construct temporary exterior closures between existing builidng and temporary exterior walls similar to details 2/AE501 3/AE501.

82 Blank plate acceptance at technology outlet Locations:

Please confirm where blank plates are acceptable for this project at telecommunications outlet locations, and identify whether bidders may use blank plates at existing outlet positions that are abandoned, relocated, reduced in port count, or otherwise not receiving active devices under this contract.

The use of blank plates is acceptable.

83 TPO roofing scope on new construction:

Section 07 54 23 requires TPO roofing. Please confirm the required TPO membrane thickness, insulation R-value, deck substrate type, and fastening method for each new roof area associated with the MCR addition and new telecom tower roofs. Please also confirm whether the TPO system must be installed by a manufacturer- authorized applicator and whether a manufacturer's warranty is required for the new roof areas

AE confirms that TPO roofing membrane thickness is stated in spec section 07 54 23 subparagraph 2.4. AE confirms per for TPO system installation refer to spec 07 54 23 subparagraph 1.6.A.

84 Exterior cladding system for new towers and MCR Addition:

Sections 07 40 00 and 07 42 13.23 require brick tile cladding and metal composite wall panels. Please confirm the complete exterior cladding system required for each new telecom tower and the MCR addition, including the governing wall assembly, air barrier type, insulation Rvalue, cladding material, attachment method, and finish color, so bidders have a complete and accurate exterior scope basis.

AE confirms that metal composite panels are not used in this project and to disregard spec section 07 42.13.23. Please refer to sheet 01W- AE511 for requested information regarding exterior cladding system.

85 Seismic restraint delegated design basis by trade:

Section 13 05 41 requires seismic restraint for non- structural components under Seismic Design Category C.

Please identify all non-structural systems and components subject to delegated seismic design on this project, including mechanical equipment, electrical equipment, telecom racks and enclosures, cable tray, conduit runs, piping, and architectural elements. Please confirm whether delegated seismic design responsibility rests with the contractor's engineer of record or with each individual trade subcontractor, and confirm whether engineer stamped seismic restraint calculations must be submitted for Government approval before installation of any restrained component.

Architectural - No architecctural elements require seismic restraint

86 Power system studies scope and arc flash labeling:

Section 26 05 73 requires power system studies. Please confirm the full scope of required studies for this project, including load flow, shortcircuit fault current, system coordination, and arc flash hazard analysis. Please identify which existing electrical systems must be included in the model, confirm whether the contractor must use EasyPower software, and confirm whether updated arc flash warning labels must be provided on all electrical equipment affected by or modified under this contract.

Full scope is outlined in specification 26 05 73.

87 Electrical apparatus inspection and testing — NETA organization and scope:

Section 26 08 00 requires electrical apparatus inspection and testing by an independent NETA-certified organization.

Please confirm all equipment subject to acceptance testing under this section on this project, confirm that the testing organization must be a first-tier subcontractor with a minimum of five years of testing experience and a NETA Level III certified lead technician, and confirm the required 14-calendar-day advance notice to the Contracting Officer before any acceptance testing is conducted.

A/E confirms all equipment testing is subject to NETA certified testing

88 UPS system configuration for new data center:

Please confirm whether the UPS system is subject to the 15-consecutive-calendar-day endurance testing requirement referenced in Section 28 05 00 for electronic safety and security systems, or whether a separate endurance test protocol governs UPS acceptance, and identify the required duration and testing conditions so bidders can include associated contractor attendance, monitoring, and punch list correction time in the base bid.

Specification 28 05 00 applies to any UPS's required in division 28 specifications.

89 Automatic transfer switch locations and bypass Requirements:

Section 26 36 23 requires automatic transfer switches. Please confirm all ATS locations serving the new data center, MCR, and TR towers, the required transfer timing for each ATS, and whether bypass- isolation switches are required at each ATS location.

Locations shall be as shown on drawings. ATS requirements shall be per specification 26 36 23 and NFPA.

90 Automatic transfer switch locations and bypass Requirements:

Please also confirm the required acceptance test procedure and advance notice period before energizing each ATS.

Requirements are outlined in specification 26 36 23.

91 Lightning protection system for new structures:

Section 26 41 00 requires facility lightning protection. Please confirm whether a new or expanded lightning protection system is required for the new data center addition and each new telecom tower structure, identify the required protection level and design standard, and confirm whether UL Master Label certification is required for the complete campus lightning protection system upon project completion.

Lightning protection shall be as shown on drawings. Reference specification for UL master label certification requirements.

92 Video surveillance scope and system integration:

Section 28 23 00 requires video surveillance. Please identify the existing campus video surveillance system platform and manufacturer.

Please confirm all new camera locations required in and around the new data center and tower rooms, confirm whether the system architecture is IP-networked or analog, and identify whether the contractor is responsible for CCTV programming, recording server configuration, storage capacity provisioning, and integration with the VA's existing Video Management System or whether those responsibilities rest with the VA or a separate VA contractor.

New camera locations shall be as shown on telecommunications contract drawings.

93 Fire detection and alarm — manufacturer compatibility and modification scope:

Section 28 31 00 requires fire detection and alarm. Please identify the existing fire alarm system manufacturer, panel model, and software version at each building requiring fire alarm tie-in, modification, programming, or acceptance under this contract. Please confirm whether a NICET Level III or IV fire alarm engineer of record is required for this project, identify the complete extent of fire alarm panel modifications, device additions, and programming changes required at each affected building, and confirm whether an independent fire alarm acceptance test and demonstration is required before final system acceptance.

Installed base for fire alarm is Edwards Fire Safety. Reference specification for fire alarm requirements. Fire alarm modifications will be as shown on contract drawings.