36C78618R0438-001.docx

36C78618R0438

PAGE 1 OF

1. REQUISITI

ON NO.

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE

4. ORDER NO.

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME

b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY

CODE

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

UNRESTRICTED OR

SET ASIDE:

% FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ

IFB

RFP

15. DELIVER TO

CODE

16. ADMINISTERED BY

CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

DUNS:

DUNS+4:

PHONE:

FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

ITEM NO.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only) 27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER) 30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

(REV. 2/2012)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

36C78618R0438 08-02-2018 Henry C. Dukes 540-658-7222 08-28-2018

2:00 PM EST

43C1 Department of Veterans Affairs NCA Contracting Service 75 Barrett Heights Rd. Suite 309 Stafford VA 22556 x x Y 561730 $7.5 Million X N/A X Florence National Cemetery 803 East National Cemetery Road Florence, SC 29506 43C1 Department of Veterans Affairs NCA Contracting Service 75 Barrett Heights Rd. Suite 309 Stafford VA 22556

43C1 http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

1-877-752-0900 See CONTINUATION Page Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, equipment Materials and supplies to renovate designated sections of turf Of the Florence National Cemetery, Florence, South Carolina.

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Florence National Cemetery Intends to award fixed priced contract to renovate designated Sections of turf which include the area within the historical Wall/fence area and border area of roadway. This project will Florence Be performed at Florence National Cemetery, 803 East National Florence Cemetery Road, Florence SC 29506-3232 Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Set Aside See Schedule

DUNS #:

Email Address:

See CONTINUATION Page X Henry C. Dukes Contracting Officer Table of Contents

ATTACHMENT C - INITIAL HEADSTONE/MARKER RAISE & REALIGN

VERIFICATION SURVEY…………………………………………………………………….46

ATTACHMENT D - DAILY HEADSTONE/MARKER RAISE & REALIGN …………47

ATTACHMENT E- CONTRACTOR’S EMPLOYEE STATEMENT OFCOMPLIANCE.48

ATTACHMENT F - PAST PERFORMANCE QUESTIONNAIRE……………………...50

ATTACHMENT G - WAGE DETERMINATION…………………………………………51

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

(continuation from Standard Form 1449, block 18A.)

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Henry C. Dukes Contracting Officer 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs NCA Contracting Service 75 Barrett Heights Rd. Suite 309 Stafford VA 22556

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/ ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

B.1.2 PROPOSALS SUBMISSION:

Proposals will be accepted and considered for award of a firm-fixed price contract. Submitted proposals that do not meet the following instructions may be determined to be nonresponsive and will not be considered for award.

B.1.3 OFFEROR ECMS VENDOR PORTAL REGISTRATION:

All Interested Offerors must be registered with the Department of Veterans Affairs eCMS Vendor Portal at https://www.vendorportal.ecms.va.gov. Offerors who require registration shall proceed to the Vendor Portal’s Login section and shall click on Request a user account to register. In the event an Offeror is unable to submit a proposal through the vendor portal domain, prior to the proposal closing date, contact the VAAS helpdesk at 1-877-634-3739, or via email at VA.Acquisition.Systems@va.gov.

Note: If an Offeror is still having difficulties in submitting a proposal via the Vendor Portal the contracting officer may accept an Offeror’s proposal via email under the following circumstances:

1. Offeror must provide evidence that an email discussions or verbal discussion with the VAAS helpdesk could not resolve registration issues.

1. Proposal submitted must meet the time constraints as set forth in the solicitation.

Proposals submitted via email without set requirements will not be accepted and will be considered to be nonresponsive. Late or incomplete Proposals will also be considered to be nonresponsive.

Proposal Requirements:

1. One (1) properly completed, signed and dated Standard Form 1449 with price/cost schedule.

1. Alternative Payment Protection as stated in FAR 52.228-13 (if applicable).

1. A completed copy of 52.204-8, Representation and Certifications.

1. Technical Proposal shall address evaluation factors and the Scope of Work (SOW).

1. Acknowledgement of any amendments (if applicable).

1. Completed FAR Clause 52.223-3 “Hazardous Material Identification and Material Safety Data” Failure to submit all required documentation may result in your submission being determined technically unacceptable and removed from further consideration.

B.1.4 QUESTIONS PERTAINING TO THIS SOLICITATION:

Questions pertaining to this solicitation must be sent by e-mail to: Henry.Dukes@va.gov by COB, August 15, 2018. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. Questions received after this date and time will not be considered.

Offerors shall inspect all sites where services are to be performed and to understand all general and local conditions that may affect the cost of contract performance (See Provision 52.237-1 Site Visit). In no event shall failure to inspect constitute grounds for a claim or request for equitable adjustment after contract award. To make arrangements for site visits, contact the following cemetery Point of Contact: Director of Florence National Cemetery Ms. Carolyn Howard or Mr. John Zigler at (843) 669-8783

B.2 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING-- MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN 2011)

This solicitation includes FAR 52.219-4 Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HubZone Small Business Concerns. Accordingly, any contract resulting from this solicitation will include this clause. The contractor is advised in performing contract administration functions, the CO may use the services of a support contractor(s) retained by VA to assist in assessing the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirements specified in the clause. To that end, the support contractor(s) may require access to contractor's offices where the contractor's business records or other proprietary data are retained and to review such business records regarding the contractor's compliance with this requirement. All support contractors conducting this review on behalf of VA will be required to sign an “Information Protection and Non-Disclosure and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest Agreement” to ensure the contractor's business records or other proprietary data reviewed or obtained in the course of assisting the CO in assessing the contractor for compliance are protected to ensure information or data is not improperly disclosed or other impropriety occurs. Furthermore, if VA determines any services the support contractor(s) will perform in assessing compliance are advisory and assistance services as defined in FAR 2.101, Definitions, the support contractor(s) must also enter into an agreement with the contractor to protect proprietary information as required by FAR 9.505-4, obtaining access to proprietary information, paragraph (b). The contractor is required to cooperate fully and make available any records as may be required to enable the CO to assess the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirement.

B.3 SUBCONTRACTING COMMITMENTS--MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN 2011)

This solicitation includes VAAR 852.215-70, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and Veteran-Owned Small Business Evaluation Factors, and VAAR 852.215-71, Evaluation Factor Commitments. Accordingly, any contract resulting from this solicitation will include these clauses. The contractor is advised in performing contract administration functions, the CO may use the services of a support contractor(s) to assist in assessing contractor compliance with the subcontracting commitments incorporated into the contract. To that end, the support contractor(s) may require access to the contractor's business records or other proprietary data to review such business records regarding contract compliance with this requirement. All support contractors conducting this review on behalf of VA will be required to sign an “Information Protection and Non-Disclosure and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest Agreement” to ensure the contractor's business records or other proprietary data reviewed or obtained in the course of assisting the CO in assessing the contractor for compliance are protected to ensure information or data is not improperly disclosed or other impropriety occurs. Furthermore, if VA determines any services the support contractor(s) will perform in assessing compliance are advisory and assistance services as defined in FAR 2.101, Definitions, the support contractor(s) must also enter into an agreement with the contractor to protect proprietary information as required by FAR 9.505-4, obtaining access to proprietary information, paragraph (b). The contractor is required to cooperate fully and make available any records as may be required to enable the CO to assess the contractor compliance with the subcontracting commitments.

THREE (3) PRE-BID SITE VISIT: Pre-bid site visit inspection are highly recommended, please contact the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) to schedule visit for the following dates, contact Mr. John Zigler or Ms. Carolyn Howard at (843) 669-8783:

· Tuesday, 7 August 2018 at 11:00 AM

· Wednesday, 8 August 2018 at 11:00 AM

· Thursday, 9 August 2018 at 11:000 AM

DIGNITY CLAUSE

Every action by contractor personnel at a National Cemetery must be performed with the special care, reverence, dignity, and respect that acknowledges the cemetery as the final resting place that commemorates the service and sacrifice that service members, Veterans and their families made for our Nation. Critically important is the awareness required of the Contractor employees of the remains buried in the grounds where the work is performed. The utmost care must be given to these remains and the headstones and flat grave markers that mark those gravesites and memorialize the service of individuals.

Contractors cannot walk, stand, lean, sit or jump on headstones or markers. Nor can they drive over them. Contractor personnel should use tools approved by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR), such as shovels, pry bars or pinch bars to lift flat markers out of the ground; pick axes are not an acceptable tool.

B.3.1 SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICE/COSTS

Florence NC BASE PERIOD: Date of Award thru 90 days

Contractor shall provide all labor, supervision, equipment; materials and supplies to renovate designated sections of turf of the Florence National Cemetery, Florence, South Carolina.

B.4 DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATION/WORK STATEMENT

GENERAL INFORMATION

4.1. Purpose:

4.1.1 The Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Administration honors veterans with a final resting place and lasting memorials that commemorate their service to our Nation. National cemeteries are national shrines. The standards of maintenance, appearance and operational procedures performed by the contractor at this cemetery shall reflect this nation’s concern for those interred there. For this reason, the contractor’s strict adherence to the specifications shall be required and shall be essential.

B4.1.2 The Department of Veteran Affairs, Florence National Cemetery intends to award a fixed price contract to renovate designated sections of turf which include the area within the historical wall/fence area and border area to roadway.

B4.1.3 Summary of Work:

A. Contractor will renovate designated sections of turf (border areas include the area from roadways/fence to interment area) within the historical wall/fence turf areas.

B4.1.4 The contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance, labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel, to provide these services.

B4.2 Cemetery Location: These services will be performed at:

Florence National Cemetery 803 East National Cemetery Road Florence, SC 29506-3232

SEE ATTACHMENTS AND BURIAL SECTION DRAWINGS.

B4.3 General Requirements:

B4.3.1 Site Manager: A “Site Manager” provided by the Contractor shall be at the work site whenever work is being performed. The “Site Manager” must have a minimum of five (5) years experience as a direct supervisor of a commercial landscaping operation that included surveying, soil excavation, and site construction in industrial, commercial or public sites. The “Site Manager” will ensure all specifications are being met, ensure contract work does not conflict with ceremonies and funerals, and ensure employees are adequately supervised and proper conduct is maintained. At all times when any performance of the work at the site is being conducted by any employee of the Contractor or his subcontractors, the Contractor shall have a representative (this person may or may not be the “Site Manager”) present who has the capability of receiving instructions in the English language, fluently speaking the English language and explaining the work operations to persons performing the work in the language that those performing the work are capable of understanding. The Contracting officer shall have the right to determine whether the proposed representative has sufficient technical and bilingual capabilities, and the Contractor shall immediately replace any individual not acceptable to the Contracting Officer.

B4.3.2 Work Hours: Normal working hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. All work will be scheduled within normal work hours of the work week, Monday through Friday only. Additional work hours of the work week, Monday through Friday may be authorized for the convenience of the Contractor upon approval of the COR(s) in writing. Any request for weekend work (Saturday or Sunday) must be approved at the District management level. However, the Government will not be responsible for any increases in Contractor costs due to overtime, shift differential, or holiday pay.

B4.3.3 Contractor On-call Availability after Normal Work Hours: The Contractor shall establish and maintain a point-of-contact to receive calls from the COR(s) after normal working hours. The point-of-contact shall be available on a 24-hour basis during weekends, Federal Holidays and after normal hours of operation. The Contractor is to provide phone, pager and/or cell phone numbers for after hour's situations.

B4.3.4 Contractor Response Times:

B4.3.4.1 During Normal Working Hours: The Contractor shall be prepared to shift workers and work areas as necessary to safeguard the cemetery and its visitors and restore the work area(s) to a safe condition. The Contractor shall respond to all normal working hours’ requests made by the COR(s) within 30 minutes of the initial notification.

B4.3.4.2 After Normal Hours: After Hours requests warrant rapid response in order to safeguard the cemetery and its visitors and restore the work area(s) to a safe condition. The Contractor shall respond to all after normal hours requests made by the COR(s) within one (1) hour of the initial call.

B4.3.4.3 Calls by other Government employees other than the COR(s) shall not be acted upon, but shall be referred to the COR(s) for review. Repairs shall begin as expeditiously as circumstances allow and should normally be completed within (24) hours of the initial emergency call. The Contractor shall keep the COR(s) fully informed of the situation and what action will be taken to secure and correct the situation.

B4.3.5 Scheduled Ceremonies and events: A list of scheduled ceremonies will be provided the week prior to the event, and a list of scheduled funerals and other events will be provided the day prior to the service. The Contractor has responsible for staying abreast of all such upcoming events and when in doubt, shall contact the COR(s) for clarification.

B4.3.6 Disruption of ceremonies, funerals and other special events: The Contractor is responsible for ensuring that no contract work causes any funeral, ceremony, procession or visitation to be delayed, altered, or otherwise impacted in such a way that the dignity or security of the event is compromised.

B4.3.7 Meetings: The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR(s) on a regular basis to ensure that work in proceeding satisfactorily and that the work will not interfere with any scheduled ceremonies, funerals, or processions. Meetings will be scheduled at least as frequently as shown below and may be requested by either party at any time. Participants in these meetings are not limited to the Site Manager and COR(s), but may include additional Contractor or Government Personnel as required.

Daily: To report on work completed, establish a work schedule and to ensure that no work is being performed at the immediate site of a scheduled interment or ceremony. These daily meetings are also an opportunity for the Contractor to ask questions and ensure he/she understands the off-limit areas, which may vary, depending on the event.

Weekly: To propose work to be done during the coming week, receive the schedule of upcoming ceremonies, discuss work progress and other items as appropriate.

B4.3.8 Record Keeping And Reporting: The Site Manager or his designee shall provide the COR(s) with weekly written accurate reports identifying work completed during the past seven days including the following: All upright headstone/markers raise/realigned floral vases removed/replaced and the sq. yards. of turf renovation (gravesite renovation) shall be recorded per gravesite location and a proposed plan of work for the upcoming week.

B4.3.9 Licenses: Permits; Vehicle, Liability and Workman’s Compensation Insurance: The Contractor shall be responsible for obtaining all necessary and current licenses, permits, vehicular insurance and registration, Workman’s Compensatory Liability Insurance, property liability insurance etc., prior to the start date of this service. The contractor shall provide the Contracting Officer copies of these policies before commencing work.

B4.3.10 Utility Location: Prior to commencing any excavation or turf removal operations, the Contractor shall confirm the location of any utilities in the work area. Utilities include potable water systems, electrical power, gas, and water and sewer lines. A utility locator company may be brought in to assist in this process at the sole expense of the Contractor.

B4.3.11 Installed Irrigation System: Ground maintenance personnel will test and demonstrate to the Contractor the irrigation system prior to the start of work in any area. This inspection shall be documented in the weekly work report. The contractor will be responsible for the cost of the water for the irrigation of the turf by installing a water meter or paying water bill invoice submitted by COR. (*Note: If the water system of the cemetery is not functioning properly or insufficient water is not available on-site, contractor must secure other water sources and supply needed water by Water truck or other means at contractors choice and expense.)

B4.3.12 Contractor Equipment: The Contractor shall not operate trucks, tractors, and other heavy equipment in excess of five tons on any turf area except when authorized in writing by the COR(s).

B4.3.13 Erosion Control: Contractor shall Install and maintain erosion control material/methods to meet local requirements. Copies of these requirements may be reviewed by contacting the COR(s).

B4.3.14 The Contractor shall provide adequate warning devices, signage, barricades, guards, flagmen or other necessary precautions, as determined by the COR(s) for the protection, safety, and warning to all pedestrians and vehicular traffic within the area. At least two signs will be provided and erected by the Contractor on the perimeter of the burial section being worked on to indicate to the public of work in progress. Signs will have the following wording: “CAUTION: TURF RENOVATION! INQUIRE AT OFFICE.”. Signs are to be aluminum, 12” height, 18” width, 2-inch black letters on white background, mounted on a post with the top of the sign 48” from the ground surface.

B4.3.15 The Contractor is responsible to ensure that all work shall be done in a manner that safeguards all VA visitors, employees, and public. The Contractor shall be solely responsible for any and all actions initiated and/or completed by his/her employees. Furthermore, the contractor and his/her employees shall have a clear understanding of, and be sensitive to, such environmental issues as ground water contamination, wetlands, etc., and be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State laws, ordinances, Right-to-Know laws, EPA guidelines, and regulations.

B4.3.16 The Cemetery Director/Representative will have the right to stop work pending weather conditions at any time. This is required to maintain the dignity of the cemetery and the appearance of the grounds.

B4.3.17 The Contractor shall schedule an on-site session(s) with the COR(s) to review site conditions; handling, numbering, placement of floral vases; and any other Contractual requirements as determined by either the Contractor or COR(s) prior to beginning work.

B.5 Work Scheduling:

B.5.1 Upon receiving Notice To Proceed (NTP) under this contract, the Contractor and Site Manager shall contact the COR(s) to visit the site and plan the work schedule. The contractor will have all work/services completed, not to exceed 90 calendar days.

B.5.2 In planning the work schedule, the following standards will apply:

B.5.2.1 Lay as a minimum 3000 sq. ft. of sod per day.

B.5.2.2 All contract work MUST be completed as required under this contract in the Burial Section/Border Areas (designated on the contract drawings and provided to the Contractor by the Contracting Officer and/or COR.

B.5.3 Work Activity Sequence: In burial sections where work consists of Turf Renovation -- The Contractor shall submit proposed sequence of work activities to COR for approval prior to starting work.

B.5.3.1 The contractor shall provide a schedule of re-surveying of any permanent gravesite control monumentation that has been disrupted in each section from the turf renovation or irrigation process.

B.5.3.2 The contractor shall provide a schedule of any headstone miss-alignment problem cause by the turf renovation process. The COR will supply contractor headstone spec (height and tolerances per request). Any adjustment to headstones cause by the turf renovation process as well as any cleaning of headstones will be at the contractors expense. (*Note: No headstone shall be removed or leave the gravesite) .

B.5.4 Due to the national significance of the Cemetery, the Contractor shall, upon coordination with the COR(s), be prepared for work stoppages around National Holidays or other ceremonies.

B.5.5 Contractor shall be prepared to return to work as soon as a ceremony is completed or on the next working day in the case of a National Holiday, with the exception of Memorial Day.

B.5.6 Work shall not be performed for a period around the Memorial Day holiday.

B.5.6.1 This shut down period shall begin on the Friday, two weeks prior to Memorial Day and work shall recommence on the Monday following Memorial Day. For the Christmas Day, the shut down period shall begin 7 days before December 25th and recommence 7 days after December 25th.

B.5.6.2 The exact dates of this shutdown period shall be determined by the COR(s).

B.5.6.3 Prior to departing the work site(s) for the Memorial Day shut down period, the Contractor shall return the work area(s) to a level of completeness determined by the COR(s).

B.6 All sod renovation/work shall be performed during the active growing season (time periods) of the turf/grass. (For Zoysia grass that is April first – Mid-September) All sod installed after September 15th and before April 1st will not be inspected or accepted by the COR until the following spring green-up/growing season has began and the sod has rooted and sustained no damage from the winter. At this time the COR will inspect the sod sections and accept or not accept said sections.

B.6.1 Phasing and Work Sequencing: Contract work shall be accomplished in a sequenced manner, with work limited to occurring in no more than one burial section (Turf renovation work) at any given time in order to minimize overall disruption to the cemetery. Requests to work on more than one burial section at a time may be submitted to the COR for approval. Approval/disapproval will be based on the impact to the cemetery operations and the progress and workmanship of the contractor, as determined by the COR. Work cannot begin in subsequent sections until such time that work has been completed in prior sections. Submit proposed project work schedule sequence for COR review and approval prior to start of project.

B.6.2 Record Keeping and Reporting: The Contractor's Project Manager designee shall provide the COR(s) with weekly written accurate reports detailing the section and range of graves in that specific week. These lists will be provided on not less than a weekly basis, and shall identify all of the above work that took place within the previous seven calendar days. Upon request, the Project Manager will also provide a plan of action for the upcoming week.

(a) All temporary markers, floral, commemorative, buried permanent floral vases, or other types of decorations and arrangements causing interference with the turf renovation operation shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner moved from, and per completion of work, moved back to all gravesites by the Contractor. Contractor may be required to probe each grave site before turf removal to locate floral vases. This is to ensure that floral vases are placed back on the correct burial site. Prior to removal, the Contractor shall verify the location of the items and associated decorations by using tags and a permanent ink marker indicating from which grave the item was removed as well as a graph, notating from which grave each floral vase came from. This is to be coordinated with the COR. *Note (No headstone/marker shall be removed from the gravesite.

(b) Any upright headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the Cemetery Administrator or COR by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any grid or sectional monuments disturbed, displaced or broken shall be replaced by the Contractor at his cost. All grid or sectional monuments disturbed, etc., shall be properly reset by a licensed land surveyor at Contractor's expense. Curbs, roads, walks, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the expense of the Contractor. Repairs to the above shall be corrected by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to with the COR.

B.6.3 Floral vase location verification: Prior to removal, the contractor shall verify the numbering/identification sequence of the floral vases with grave plotting maps. Floral vases MUST be identified to assure they are properly reinstalled at their applicable gravesites (provide method to identify floral vases to COR’s for approval prior to removal of any floral vases). The probing of each gravesite for vase location my be applicable and must be coordinated with the COR.

B.6.4 Irrigation Lines/heads and etc.: Any damage by the contractor of the irrigation system or its components (heads, lines, wires, valves and etc.), will be the responsibility of the contractor to repair immediately and at the contractors expense.

B.7 AVAILABILITY AND USE OF UTILITY SERVICES

A. The Government shall make NO utilities available to the Contractor from existing outlets and supplies. The Contractor may use water at no cost to the government through the irrigation system for establishing turf and maintain plant material at contractor’ expense.

B. The Contractor, at Contractor’s expense and in a workmanlike manner satisfactory to the COR, shall install and maintain all necessary temporary connections and distribution lines, and meters required by public utilities. Before final acceptance of the work by the Government, the contractor shall remove all temporary connections, distribution lines, meters and associated appurtenances.

B.8 TREE AND PLANT PROTECTION

B.9 SITE CONDITIONS

A. The project site and cemetery property support numerous mature live oaks and other trees of significance size. These trees are considered key landscape features and are to be preserved and protected throughout the work.

B. Pruning of any tree roots or limbs within the work site shall not occur without first acquiring approval from the COR. All approved pruning to trees shall be conducted under the direction of a certified arborist.

B.10 Turf Renovation (Gravesite Renovation):

B.10.1 Vegetation Removal: Existing turf is to be sprayed with a short acting herbicide designed to eliminate turf and weeds (i.e. “Round-up” or equivalent). All existing turf and weeds must be eradicated before stripping of topsoil and dead vegetation. Application to be applied by a licensed applicator to ensure appropriate rates of application and other State regulated requirements.

B.10.2 Stripping Topsoil: Strip two (2) inches of topsoil from within limits of work area and remove from work site each day. New topsoil shall be a fertile, friable, natural topsoil of loamy character and characteristic of locality. Topsoil shall be capable of growing healthy horticultural crops of grasses. Stockpile topsoil and protect as directed by COR or designee. Eliminate foreign materials, such as dead grass, weeds, roots, stones, subsoil, frozen clods, and similar foreign materials larger than 25 mm (1 inch) in any dimension from topsoil that will be used in final grading. Topsoil work, such as stripping, stockpiling, and similar topsoil work shall not, under any circumstances, be carried out when soil is wet so that tilth of soil will be destroyed. Topsoil removed from the work area may be stored in a temporary on-site location designated by the COR(s) until removal from cemetery site at the end of work day.

B.10.3 Lines and Grades: Area must be tilled, graded and compacted to a level to provide a flowing transition through existing terrain (no depression or low line areas). A Registered Professional Land Surveyor or Registered Civil Engineer, shall establish lines and grades for approval by COR and designee. Grading shall provide a smooth transition at curbs, trees, planters and uninterrupted drainage flow into existing drains. Contractor shall notify COR or designee of any differences before requesting approval of lines and grades. Subsequent to establishment of lines and grades and COR or designee approval, Contractor will be responsible for any additional cut and/or fill required to ensure that site is graded to insure that surface water drainage will drain to existing storm drains and that they are no standing water areas throughout the sections ( such as depression and sunken graves).

B.10.4 Filling and Back filling: Do not fill or backfill until all foreign materials have been removed from excavation. For fill and backfill use excavated materials and top soil as applicable. Do not use unsuitable excavated materials such as topsoil, construction materials and material subject to decomposition, clods of clay and stones larger than 1 inches, organic materials including silts which are unstable, and inorganic materials including silts, too wet to be stable.

B.10.5 Compaction: Compact with approved tamping rollers, sheep-foot rollers, pneumatic tired rollers, steel wheeled rollers, or other approved equipment (hand or mechanized) well suited to soil being compacted. Do not operate mechanized vibratory compaction equipment, which may damage existing liners or caskets. Sub-grade must be thoroughly tamped to compaction.

B.10.6 Topsoil: Topsoil shall be a well-graded soil of good uniform quality. It shall be a natural, friable soil representative of productive soils in the vicinity. Topsoil shall be free of admixture of subsoil, foreign matter, objects larger than 25 mm (one inch) in any dimension, toxic substances, weeds and any material or substances that may be harmful to plant growth and shall have a pH value of not less than 6.0 nor more than 7.0. Testing for pH will be required by an approved laboratory. Copies of the pH tests shall be furnished to the COR(s) PRIOR to topsoil being placed. Amend topsoil not meeting the pH range specified by the addition of pH Adjusters. Top-dress is to be organic matter, weed free consistent with irrigation requirements to promote healthy grass. If sufficient topsoil is not available on the site to meet the depth as specified herein, the Contractor shall furnish additional topsoil. At least 10 days prior to topsoil delivery, notify the COR or designee of the source(s) from which topsoil is to be furnished. Obtain topsoil from well-drained areas.

B.10.7 Installation of Topsoil: After tilling the soil for bonding of topsoil with the subsoil, spread two (2) inches of topsoil evenly over prepared site. Incorporate topsoil into the subsoil to avoid soil layering. Do not spread topsoil when it is excessively wet or dry. Correct irregularities in finished surfaces to eliminate depressions. Protect finished topsoil areas from damage by vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Complete lawn work only after areas are brought to finished grade. The areas within the drip lines of existing trees are not to be tilled at a depth greater than three inches or backfilled not to exceed four inches from existing grades. Contractor must protect all trees, shrubs and plants. Exceptions must be approved by COR. Incorporate fertilizers and lime into the soil to a depth of at least 100 mm (3 inches) as part of the finish grading operation. Immediately restore the soil to an even condition before any turf work.

B.10.8 Finish Grading, Sod and Sodding: Complete lawn works only after areas are brought to finished grade (approved by COR) and all vegetation has been eradicated. Sod shall be certified sod as classified in the TPI Guideline Specifications to Turf Grass Sodding. The composition of the grass species in the sod shall be Zoysia grass ( Zeon Cultivar). Two applications of fertilizers are required, one prior to sod placement (use a starter fertilizer 5-5-15 at the rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet) and another application of fertilizer after the first mowing at 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet.

Prior to delivery of sod, the contractor shall have an interim inspection of the work area by the COR(s) and any discrepancies (grading, backfilling, headstone placement, etc.) shall be corrected prior to laying sod in the work area. Sod shall be delivered to the work site no more than one day prior to installation. Contractor shall make all necessary arrangements to protect delivered sod from excessive drying and wind damage. Sod shall we insect, disease and weed free. Sod shall be laid expeditiously without interruption, until the work area is completely sodded. Sod shall be cut and fitted around all flat markers and other obstructions. Sod should only be laid/rolled over bare moist soil with pieces laid in a staggered brick-like pattern and edges fitted tightly together to avoid any open cracks. Rolling and watering thoroughly is required by the contractor to insure good contact with the soil for fast rooting.

B.10.9 Sod around Trees: Care shall be taken not to damage tree roots. New sod will be laid no closer than 36 inches from tree trunk in a circular pattern. In instances where a greater diameter is required due to tree roots, prior approval will be obtained from the COR. Sod is to be installed in a circular pattern away from base of tree and surface root unless otherwise specified by the COR.

B.10.10 Floral vases: After installation of sod, Contractor shall ensure that all floral vases are at their proper and marked locations and are at finished grade. The contractor may have to probe each grave for location of buried vases.

B.10.11 Guaranty: The Contractor shall guarantee all turf work for a period of 90 calendar days after final inspection and acceptance of the entire project by the Government. Any turf work that does not meet the specified requirements at the end of this guaranty period is to be reworked, adjusted, and corrected by the Contractor at no additional cost to the government. Work performed under the Guaranty shall be corrected within ten (10) workdays from receipt of notification or as directed by the COR.

B.11 Turf Establishment Period:

The turf establishment period for each section completed shall begin no less than after the last piece of sod is laid in that section( the last sod laid in section must be verified and documented by the COR before start of establishment period can begin). The contractor may request a final of that section from the COR after the 30 day establishment period has ended. During the Turf Establishment Period the Contractor shall:

B.11.1 Water turf to maintain an adequate supply of moisture within the root zone. Apply water at a moderate rate so as not to displace the mulch or flood the plants and turf. The contractor is responsible for applying one quarter of an inch of water (1/4”) twice a day for a three week period. The contractor shall supply all necessary watering equipment (to include hoses, sprinkler heads etc.) and labor to apply water.

B.11.2 Eradicate all weeds. Water, fertilize, over-seed, and perform any other operation necessary to promote the growth of grass.

B.11.3 Replant areas void of turf 0.1 m2 (one square foot) and larger in area.

B.11.4 Mowing will be required by the contractor when grass reaches (3 inches) high. Mow to a (2 inch) height and take no more than 1/3 of the grass at any mowing. Contractor will be responsible for one mowing minimum or until an acceptable stand of grass is provided and accepted by the government.

B.11.5 The contractor shall not be held accountable or responsible for damage to the renovated areas caused by cemetery personnel.

B.12 Turf Maintenance Period:

B.12.1 The Contractor shall maintain the area 30 days after the 30 day establishment period ends for each section accepted by the COR. Maintenance shall include mowing the area when the grass reached a height of (3 inches). Mow to a (2 inch) height. The contractor shall take no more than 1/3 of the grass height at any mowing. The contractor shall also water the installed turf as required until the final acceptance.

B.12.2 The contractor shall be responsible for the health of the turf until final inspection and acceptance by the COR and make all necessary corrective actions at no expense to the government.

B.12.3 The contractor shall not be held accountable or responsible for damage to the renovated areas caused by cemetery personnel or actions.

B.12.4 Continue mowing and irrigation until sod is 100% established and is accepted by the COR. Germinated weeds must be eliminated by spraying with a typical three-way broadleaf herbicide combination product or with a post emergence herbicide for control of crabgrass or both if necessary to achieve 100% turfgrass cover.

B.13 Clean Up and Repair Of Damaged Areas:

B.13.1 Upon completion of the work, the Contractor shall remove all debris, rubbish, and excess material from Cemetery Property.

B.13.2 A temporary storage site may be provided by the COR(s) for short-term storage (not to exceed two weeks).

B.13.3 At the end of each day the Contractor shall remove all debris from the work site and the cemetery. The Contractor shall ensure at all times that rubbish and trash generated by the Contractor is kept clear of vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the site. This may include sweeping or washing down the roadways of dirt and debris. The Government shall not provide receptacle(s) for disposal of debris related to this contract. All unsuitable/unusable materials are to be disposed of off station.

B.13.4 Contractors shall be responsible for cleaning any cemetery structures that are soiled or stained as a result of contractor’s performance. The Contractor shall wash-down with water all soiled or stained structures and grounds at the end of each workday. No chemicals are to be during the wash down. The Contractor shall bear all costs associated with washing and cleaning. Any such soiled or stained areas shall be brought to the immediate attention of the COR(s) prior to washing/cleaning.

B.13.5 In areas where planting and turf work have been completed, clear the area of all debris, Spoil piles, and containers. Clear all other paved areas when work in adjacent areas is completed.

Remove all debris, rubbish and excess material from the Cemetery.

B.13.6 Contractors shall be responsible for replacement of any cemetery structure, to include: turf, curb, road pavement, headstone or marker, valve boxes, control markers, sprinkler heads, which is chipped, marred, damaged and/or ruined at the fault of the Contractor shall bear all costs associated with replacement and reinstallation. Any such damage shall be brought to the immediate attention of the appointed COR(s) prior to repair/replacement/installation.

B.13.7 At the Government's discretion, the Contractor shall either repair or replace the property, or reimburse the Government the full amount for all property damage(s). The Contractor shall be aware that Government property - beyond standard structures and equipment - also includes markers, monuments, trees, beds, and turf, i.e. - wounded trees or scalped turf, roads, curbs, potable water system as well as headstones/markers shall be repaired or replaced.

B.13.8 The contractor and COR(s) shall inspect the trees and shrubbery of a schedule renovation area prior to the start of the renovation and note all abnormalities or existing conditions. Another inspection will be conducted after the completion of the renovation and the contractor will make all corrective actions to any noted damage. A licensed arborist will complete all corrective actions to damaged trees.

B.13.9 Where existing or new turf areas have been damaged or scarred during planting and construction operations, restore disturbed area to their original condition.

B.14 WORK ENVIRONMENT:

B.14.1 All work under this contract will be performed primarily out-of-doors and personnel performing these services will be exposed to wind, sun, cold, dampness, fog and rain. These conditions, may, at times, be extreme. The contractor shall take all necessary precautions to protect his/her employees from the elements to the maximum practicable extent. No work shall be done when the ground is too wet or in an otherwise unsuitable condition for planting. Submit a written request to the COR(s) stating the special conditions and proposal variance.

B.14.2 Due to the sensitive mission of the cemetery, the work often requires contact with, and exposure to, grieving individuals. Contractor personnel must exercise and exhibit absolute decorum, courtesy, and respect while within the cemetery or at its perimeter or entrances. Inquiries from cemetery visitors shall be politely referred to Government cemetery staff. Gratuities of any kind are strictly prohibited.

B.15 CEMETERY RESPONSIBILITIES:

B.15.1 Locate the temporary gravesite control monumentation markers if applicable.

B.15.2 Verify the location of all gravesites within the scope of work.

B.15.3 Demonstrate operation of Irrigation System.

B.16 CONTRACTOR-FURNISHED ITEMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

B.16.1 The Contractor is responsible for supplying all equipment, personnel, tools, supplies and materials necessary to perform the services required by this contract.

B.16.2 Contractor-furnished items necessary to perform work as required under this contract shall be furnished, maintained and operated by the Contractor and shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable OSHA, Federal, State, County, City laws, ordinances and regulations.

B.16.3 Materials and supplies procured for the performance of the contract by the Contractor shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, County, and City laws, ordinances and regulations.

B.16.5 The Contractor is responsible for the supply, maintenance and repair of all Contractor-owned equipment. This includes, minor maintenance/repair and minor operating parts for equipment such as lubrication, oil changes, spark plugs, gaskets, cotter pins/keys, electric extension cords, etc., to keep all equipment in good operational condition throughout the period of performance of this contract.

B.16.5 Contractor Staging area location must be approved by…