36C78619Q0164-001.docx

36C78619Q0164

OF

1. REQUISITION 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 SI

GN 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. SIGN

ATURE 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

8359-000023 36C78619Q0164 04-07-2019 Tracy Williams 540-658-7230 04-29-2019

4:00PM, EST

36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 75 Barrett Heights Road, Suite 309 Stafford VA 22556 X X 561730 $7.5 Million X N/A X Department of Veterans Affairs Chattanooga National Cemetery 1200 Bailey Avenue Chattanooga TN 37404 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 75 Barrett Heights Road, Suite 309 Stafford VA 22556 http://www.tungsten-network.com/customer -campaigns/veterans-affairs/

1-877-752-0900 See CONTINUATION Page This procurement is being made under FAR 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures for Commercial Items and is a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Business Set- Aside, Authority, 38 USC 8127 (d).

The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, tools, and supplies necessary for Grounds Maintenance Services for the Chattanooga National Cemetery as specified in the solicitation and attachments.

Faxed and emailed offers will not be accepted All quotes must be submitted through the Department of Veterans Affairs Electronic Management System (eCMS) Vendor Portal website https: //www.vendorportal.ecms.va.gov to be considered.

CONTRACTOR DUNS NO._____________________________________

CONTRACTOR EMAIL ADDRESS: _______________________________

CONTRACTOR PHONE

NUMBER: ________________________________

See CONTINUATION Page X X Table of Contents

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

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

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C786 Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 75 Barrett Heights Road, 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:

36C78619Q0164

Page 1 of Page 1 of

STATEMENT OF WORK/SPECIFICATION

DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES:

The Chattanooga National Cemetery located at: 1200 Bailey Ave Chattanooga TN 37404 has a need for Grounds Maintenance services for periods effective date of award through April 30, 2020 with four

(4) 1‐year Options through April 30, 2024.

The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, tools, supervision, and other items and services necessary to ensure that grounds maintenance is performed at Chattanooga National Cemetery in a manner that will maintain healthy grass, trees, shrubs, and plants and present a clean, neat, and professional appearance throughout.

All work shall be done during normal Federal workdays in daylight hours and may require work on selected Federal Holidays or weekends.

Grounds maintenance services including, but not limited to:

1. Mowing

2. Trimming

3. Edging

4. Leaf Collection

5. Grounds Cleanup, Trash & Debris removal

6. Cleaning Streets, sidewalks, shelter and pavilion

7. Sodding Gravesites

8. Mulching

BACKGROUND:

National cemeteries are a resting place for our nation's heroes and as such, the standards for management, maintenance and appearance of these cemeteries have been established by the National Cemetery Administration to reflect this nation's concern and respect for those interred there. The overall responsibility of the Contractor is to plan, coordinate, organize, manage, and perform the activities described herein, which are required to maintain an acceptable appearance of the cemetery grounds.

The Chattanooga National Cemetery is located at 1200 Bailey Ave Chattanooga TN 37404. The cemetery is comprised of 121 acres. The cemetery contains the remains of 57,882 veterans, spouses and dependent children. National Cemeteries are National Shrines. The standards of maintenance and appearance at these cemeteries must reflect this nation's concern for those interred there. For this reason, strict adherence to the specifications is required as well as National Cemetery Administration standards.

The Southeast District (SED) Office, Department of Veterans Affairs, National Cemetery Area Office, 1700 Clairmont Road., 4th Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30033‐4032, has the responsibility for the National Cemeteries. The administration of this contract will be by the Contracting Officer. The Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) for the contract will be designated in a separate letter under the direction of the Director, Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

All work shall be performed during the normal working hours (07:30a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), Monday through Friday, except with the written permission of the COR(s).

In the event climate or weather conditions become unsuitable for work or may induce an environmental hazard, the entire work shall be rescheduled to a date and time satisfactory to the contractor, COR, and Cemetery Management. Postponement due to climate or weather conditions shall not be cause for penalties to the Contractor nor additional costs to the Government.

The Contractor shall phase all work in such a manner as not to impact on or interfere with cemetery operations. Contractor shall cease work within 100 yards of any committal service in progress while performing under the contract. Contractor and contractor's employees shall cease work upon arrival of the funeral party at the committal shelter and shall not start back to work until the funeral service is completed while performing under the contract. The COR may direct and arrange the contractor’s performance in specific areas of the cemetery to coordinate with the cemetery’s mowing operations and/or committal services.

CONTRACTOR STAFFING REQUIREMENTS:

Contractor will supply a minimum of one (1) grounds employee and one (1) Site Supervisor dedicated to performing all services outlined in this SOW.

Contractor employee work may be supplemented with additional employees to accomplish ALL CLIN items successfully in a timely manner if required.

The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining satisfactory standards of personnel conduct and work performance and shall administer disciplinary action as required. The Contractor shall remove employees for cause, to include, but not limited to, misconduct in performance of duty under these specifications and/or conduct contrary to the best interests of the Government.

SITE SUPERVISOR REQUIREMENTS:

Site Supervisor: A competent and experienced English‐speaking Site Supervisor shall be provided by the Contractor at all times work is being performed. The Site Supervisor shall be knowledgeable in all areas of the contract and shall direct all work being performed as part of the contract and shall have direct supervision over all contractor employees. The Site Supervisor shall provide daily onsite quality control over all work performed as part of the contract. The Site Supervisor shall have regular communication with the COR’s and shall submit daily, weekly and monthly inspection reports to the COR’s.

The Site Supervisor must have at least three (3) years of experience as a direct supervisor of grounds maintenance operations that included mowing, trimming, edging, and cleanup in industrial, commercial or public sites.

The Site Supervisor shall 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.

Site Supervisor shall prevent any disruption to the cemetery operations, including funerals, visitor privacy, internal traffic, and utilities

EMPLOYEE REQUIREMENTS:

Contracted grounds maintenance employees must have Contractor shall provide employees with at least 1‐year of experience in landscaping maintenance operations, experience working in a National Cemetery Grounds Maintenance contract or similar projects. Employees shall have demonstrated education or experience in turf grass maintenance, horticulture and headstone maintenance.

Employees shall be fully trained in safe equipment operations, proper turf grass maintenance techniques such as mowing and trimming and Cemetery etiquette.

The Contractor shall be aware of the intensive labor and equipment requirements needed to meet contract specifications. The Contractor shall be responsible to provide all labor and equipment as necessary to meet deadlines. The Contractor will provide all necessary resources to complete the efforts assigned under the scope of this contract.

Employee Identification: The Contractor’s employees shall wear visible Company and employee name identification always while on the premises of the Cemetery.

Training: The Contractor shall also be responsible for training and safety precautions for Contractor employees performing work under these specifications. OSHA standards shall be observed by the Contractor in all work performed. Appropriate safety equipment shall be furnished by the Contractor to Contractor personnel and shall be used as prescribed by OSHA standards, including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection devices. The following OSHA and NFPA standards and codes are to be adhered to:

1. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): 10‐1998 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

2. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910 Safety and Health Regulations for Personal Protection, Safety Color Codes, Portable Power Tools, Electrical Safety and Portable Electric Equipment.

3. Site and Building Access: Maintain free and unobstructed access to facility emergency services and for fire, police and other emergency response forces in accordance with NFPA 241.

STANDARDS OF EMPLOYEE CONDUCT:

A. Contractor and Contractor personnel, to include all contractors’ temporary workers, shall be required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work in the National Cemetery. These standards and regulations are enforceable under CFR‐2017‐Title 38 Vol 1‐ Sec 1‐218 See Attachment A.

1. An approved uniform consists of:

Long slacks or pants and shirt, buttoned up from neck to waist. Shirt shall have company name and or logo and Employee name. Hats shall be plain or bear the company name or logo only. Clothing shall be clean each day. Any soiled clothing should be cemetery work‐related to that day. No ripped or torn clothing shall be worn. T‐shirts and/or tank tops as outer garments are prohibited as are any garments which have a message or slogan affixed thereto. Shoes/boots shall have no holes or loose soles. Steel‐toed shoes shall be required in accordance with OSHA requirements. Contractor employees shall maintain personal hygiene.

2. Contractor personnel must maintain a neat and professional appearance throughout the workforce, vehicles, equipment, and staging areas. Matching uniforms (pants and shirt, plus jacket in the cool season) for all employees are required‐ in addition to all state and federally mandated Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliant protective gear.

3. Contractor personnel shall not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane or abusive language. Shall show proper reverence during committal services.

4. Contractor personnel shall not eat or drink beverages except water or non‐alcoholic drinks while in work area nor in site of committal shelter during a service. Use of intoxicating beverages and/or drugs is strictly prohibited.

5. Contractor personnel shall not lean, sit or stand on or against headstones or monuments. No tools, equipment or other items shall be placed or leaned on headstones or monuments.

6. The only designated tobacco use areas for the Chattanooga National Cemetery is located by the Contractor Staging area. All other areas to include all interment sections are designated as tobacco free, this includes vaping and all forms of electronic cigarettes.

PARKING, AND VA REGULATIONS:

It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure his employees park in the appropriate designated parking areas. Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in the area designated for parking by the COR at their own risk. The Cemetery will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations of the Contractor’s employees under any conditions. Tobacco use is prohibited inside any buildings at the Cemetery. Possession of weapons is prohibited. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, shall be subject to search. Violations of VA regulations may result in citation answerable in the United States (Federal) District Court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

USE OF CEMETERY FACILITIES:

The Government will not be responsible for any loss, damage, or theft of Contractor items, nor shall free telephone service be provided. Contractor shall be responsible for acceptable standards of housekeeping and custodial maintenance of Department of Veterans Affairs facilities used by Contractor's employees.

A. The Government may allow space in the spoils area on the cemetery site for optional use by the Contractor to store supplies and equipment. However, the Government will not be responsible for any damage to or loss of the Contractor's equipment and supplies stored on the Government's premises. The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining fire extinguishers and other safety equipment. Should the spoils area become unavailable, the Contractor will be given a minimum of 60 days from the notice of building unavailability to find storage off the cemetery grounds. The Contractor would then be responsible for delivering and removing all necessary equipment and supplies daily. Inability to use the spoils area will in no way alter the contract.

B. While utilizing the spoils area the contractor shall maintain the space to NCA Standards. Building and restrooms shall be cleaned daily and documented on required checklists that shall be maintained by the contractor and sent to the COR on a weekly basis. Daily Cleaning shall include sweeping the floor, emptying trash, removing cobwebs from all areas, sanitizing sinks, toilets and floors, cleaning mirrors, windows and glass tops and of the like etc. All items stored in service building shall be in a neat orderly safe fashion.

C. The Contractor shall be responsible for safely storing any chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, cleaning solutions, etc. in accordance with manufacturers recommendations. An SDS (Safety Data Sheet) is required for all chemicals, pesticides, herbicides and cleaning solutions.

D. Only the designated restroom facilities in maintenance shop will be available to Contractor personnel. Locations will be COR identified at time of contract award.

E. Electricity and water will be furnished by the Government except for any additional water needed other than on site water.

CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES AND INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS:

The Contractor shall obtain all necessary licenses and/or permits required to perform this work. The Contractor shall take all precautions necessary to protect persons and property from injury or damage during the performance of this contract. The Contractor shall be responsible for any injury to themselves, their employees, or others, as well as for any damage to personal or public property that occurs during the performance of this contract that is caused by their or their employees’ fault or negligence. Further, it is agreed that any negligence of the Government, its officers, agents, servants and employees, shall not be the responsibility of the Contractor hereunder with the regard to any claims, loss, damage, injury, and liability resulting therefrom. The Contractor shall maintain workmen’s compensation, personal liability, automobile liability, and property damage insurance, as prescribed by the laws of the state of Tennessee, and in accordance with FAR 52.228‐5, Section B. Evidence of coverage is required before commencing work under this contract (copy of Certificate of Insurance), and it may not be changed or cancelled without thirty calendar days prior written notice to the Contracting Officer.

INSPECTION AND CLEANING OF CEMETERY FACILITIES:

A. The Contractor shall perform a weekly inspection. During this inspection the appearance of the cemetery will be observed, and any deficiencies noted within the scope of the contract will be documented by the COR on a weekly inspection sheet. Any deficiencies or ratings of marginal or unsatisfactory noted in the weekly inspection sheet shall be corrected by the contractor within the following time:

a. Grounds Maintenance (i.e. mowing, removal of leaves and debris, sweeping or blowing off roads and walkways, trash removal– 2 business days after receipt of weekly inspection sheet.

b. Sunken Grave Repair – 5 business days after receipt of weekly inspection sheet. Any graves deemed safety hazards shall be secured for safety or repaired by close of the same business day noted.

B. Items that need correcting outside the scope of the contract will be reported to the Contracting Officer or his representative.

C. The Contractor shall be required to submit inspection reports and work accomplished to the COR weekly. The inspection forms will document date, location and type of work completed, certification of inspection for quality control by site supervisor and weather or other issues.

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE CONTRACTING OFFICER:

The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) shall be under the supervision of the Foreman and Director, Chattanooga National Cemetery. Only the Contracting Officer can make changes in the scope of work. The Contractor shall contact the Contracting Officer on all matters pertaining to administration. Only the Contracting Officer is authorized to make commitments or issue changes, which will affect the price, quantity or delivery terms of this contract.

MAINTENANCE DURING CEMETERY FUNCTIONS:

Contractor personnel shall not operate motorized equipment or conduct other commercial activities during interment services. The COR or his/her representative shall furnish the Contractor with a schedule of all interments and/or ceremonies no later than the close of business of the day prior to the scheduled internment, and a minimum of three (3) days before any ceremonial events.

CONTRACTOR’S QUALITY CONTROL PLAN (QCP):

(a) The Contractor shall establish and maintain a complete QCP to assure the requirements of this contract are provided as specified. This QCP will be forwarded to the CO along with the requested initial proposal. The CO will review the QCP and list any needed clarifications, and return to Contractor for response, if necessary. The Contractor’s QCP shall include the following or have incorporated into during performance of contract, at a minimum:

(b) An inspection plan covering all services required by this contract. The inspection plan must specify the areas to be inspected on either a scheduled or unscheduled basis, how often inspections will be accomplished and documented, and the title of the individual(s) who will perform the inspections.

(c) On‐site records of all inspections conducted by the Contractor noting necessary corrective action taken. The Government reserves the right to request copies of any and/or each inspection.

(d) Incorporation of either active or established internal policy and procedures for updating equipment and procedures, that may affect performance of contract.

(e) The methods for identifying and preventing deficiencies in the quality of service performed, before the level of performance becomes unacceptable, and organizational functions noting intermediate supervisory responsibilities and overall management responsibilities for ensuring total acceptable performance.

(f) On‐site records identifying the character, physical capabilities, certifications and ongoing training of each employee performing services under this contract.

(g) A log to account for all requests for immediate service. The log shall indicate the date and time of services, and description of results and completion of these services and a name and signature of the person inspecting and certifying the work as completed.

(h) On‐site records of any complaints or problems, with procedures taken to allow for corrections and/or elimination before effects caused interruption of performance of contract.

Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR)

a) The issuance of a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR) shall be issued when work is found to be below the Minimally Acceptable Level listed in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan or if found to be unsafe, or in violation of Contract Requirements.

b) The CDR will require the Contractor to explain in writing why performance was unacceptable, how performance will be returned to an acceptable level, and how recurrence of the problem will be prevented in the future. The Contractor will not be paid for services not rendered in accordance with the standards set forth in this contract.

c) If the Government created any of the discrepancies, these will not be counted against the Contractor's performance. When the Government has caused the Contractor to perform in an unsatisfactory manner, the COR will forward a written notice to the responsible organizational element requesting corrective action be taken.

d) Normally, the COR will verbally advise or give a written inspection report to the Contractor of discrepancies the first time they occur and ask the Contractor to correct the problem. A notation will be made on the COR checklist of the date and the time the deficiency was discovered and the date and time the Contractor was notified. Failure to correct discrepancies in the required time frame or repeated occurrences of discrepancies will result in issuance of a CDR.

e) When the Contractor is not meeting the limits of satisfactory performance, a CDR will be issued to the Contractor. The seriousness of the failures should govern whether to issue CDR at the end of the period, or as soon as the limits of satisfactory performance are exceeded.

f) A CDR will be prepared by the COR and forwarded to the CO and Contractor.

g) The Contractor shall respond to any complaints and/or ratings of deficient performance within five

(5) calendar days, after receipt of the report.

h) All visitor complaints deemed by the COR to require a written response to the Contractor, or administrative action, will be forwarded to the CO, as soon as possible, for action.

i) When a CDR is issued for a service, the Contracting Officer must deduct from the periodic payment, a percentage of that payment as indicated in the Performance of Work Requirements Summary as attached hereto.

j) If the Contractor does not achieve satisfactory performance by the end of the next period or agreed suspense date, another CDR will be issued and the appropriate amount deducted from the periodic payment.

k) A third CDR will be the cause for a Cure Notice. However, the Contracting Officer may issue a Cure Notice at any time he/she deems appropriate. Depending on the overall performance of the Contractor, an unsatisfactory reply to the Cure Notice should require a Show Cause letter to be issued, followed by consideration of termination of the contract.

HISTORIC PRESERVATION:

Where the Contractor or any of the Contractor's employees, prior to, or during the service work, are advised of or discover any possible archeological, historical and/or cultural resources, the Contractor shall immediately notify the COR verbally, and then with a written follow up.

SALES OF COMPANIES OR NAME CHANGES:

The Contractor, gaining award of the contract, shall notify the Contracting Officer in writing immediately upon entering an agreement (either oral or written) to sale or transfer all or part of its stock or other ownership interest to any other party. This Contractor shall also contact the Contracting Officer immediately in writing in the event a company name change will happen, with information as to the reasons and/or determinations causing this action.

Statement of Work Requirements

SODDING SECOND INTERNMENT GRAVESITES

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders, which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf used shall be compatible with the geographic region and adheres to the Cemetery Master Plan, where applicable. (Guidance from expert sources (e.g. local county agricultural extension agent or arborist, agronomists in SED Offices or landscape architects in NCACO) is adhered to regarding turf selection.

All gravesites shall have turf established within 60 days of internment during the growing season.

Active growing season is considered to be April 1 through October 1 with variation according to the weather patterns. Sod may be laid outside the growing season however the establishment period shall not begin until the beginning of the growing season. Work consists of sod bed preparation and sodding of areas of the cemetery where the second internment gravesites have been excavated. Approximately 400 graves will require re‐sodding annually. Each gravesite is approximately 30‐50 square feet in size. The Contractor shall be responsible for the removal and disposition of dead ground and shall refill the site with quality topsoil and perform the sodding or seeding to include the bare areas to ensure a quality turf. Delivery tickets, indicating date, weight, analysis, purity, State Certification (Blue Tags) and vendor’s name, etc. are to be submitted to the COR.

3. Kind of Sod/Seed

Bermuda Tiffway 419

Only cultivars of grass sod/seed that have been adapted in the State of Tennessee and certified by the State Agronomy Testing Laboratory will be accepted. Any substitution of sod type, weight or application must be specifically approved by the COR in writing. Sod is to be free of all noxious weeds. Tiffway 419 Bermuda is to be the primary grass to be developed.

4. Equipment A. Sod shall be cut by mechanical means allowing for uniform depth so as to create a safe even walking surface.

B. Contractor shall have a means to water new sod by portable tanker. Irrigation system shall not be relied upon for watering sod. Chattanooga National Cemetery does NOT have an irrigation system.

5. Procedure A. The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing and watering all sodded/seeded areas and maintaining them in a healthy and vigorous condition. Newly sodded/seeded areas shall be hand mowed until it is established enough to support riding mowers without damage.

B. An area where sod is to be placed shall have a minimum of two (2) inches of topsoil placed on it and be prepared for sod by bringing ground surface to adjacent grades, (with allowances for sod thickness, where applicable) free of sticks, stones, or other foreign material. Topsoil Mix 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 5.0 nor more than 7.5. Topsoil Mix shall contain 25‐35% mushroom compost and 30% sand (may be river sand or masonry sand) well blended and sifted. Product should be workable when wet and should provide excellent growth potential for plants and turf. Top soil shall be tamped so that it is a firm safe surface for walking on and shall minimize softness when wet.

C. Sod shall be laid with seams tightly matched, then rolled, then watered thoroughly. Sod must be kept moist until it is well rooted and able to survive with standard watering. Daily watering of new seed or sod shall be by portable tanker or other means and shall not rely on the Cemetery irrigation system.

D. Healthy turf shall be re‐established by sodding within Thirty (30) calendar days of internment on all second internment gravesites. Internments outside of the growing season shall be sodded within thirty (30) calendar days of the beginning of the growing season.

E. All second internment gravesites shall be sodded before Memorial Day weekend up to and including the Friday before the weekend.

F. Establishment period for new sod is thirty calendar (30) days after sod has been laid. Sod will be inspected by COR and any sod determined to be unsatisfactory shall be replaced within five (5) business days of notification.

G. An additional period of thirty calendar (30) days after the sod establishment period for daily maintenance shall be provided to ensure establishment.

H. Contractor is responsible for watering sod to ensure establishment until the maintenance period is completed and the sod accepted by the COR.

5. GUARANTEE

The Contractor shall, at his own expense, replace any sod which has died or been damaged during the establishment or maintenance period.

MOWING, TRIMMING & EDGING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and contract documents which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

NCA STANDARD: Turf shall be maintained at a height within one‐inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region. Optimally, the height is no more than half an inch above that range. Turf surrounding a headstone or marker shall be trimmed to its recommended height. There shall be no signs of “grass burns” caused by mowers. There shall be no signs of turf being “scalped” by string trimmers. Thatching of grass clippings/leaves is not permitted.

The Contractor shall be responsible for mowing, edging, and trimming all grass within the cemetery and outside perimeter enclosure walls, to include removal of all grass clipping & leaves from roads and walkways as specified by the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). This encompasses approximately 121 acres.

Mowing, trimming and edging shall be accomplished a minimum of weekly during the growing season and as need outside of the growing season. Mowing, trimming and edging cycles shall be completed regardless of weather or burials unless approved by the COR in writing.

Regular mowing is required to be performed before trimming. If ground is wet, to the point of causing rutting, mowers will not be used until ground conditions permit. COR will be notified immediately.

Minor accumulation of leaves, or leaves from storms will be mulched by mowing and shall be considered part of the regular mowing cycle.

3. EQUIPMENT

A. The Contractor shall use mowers with mulching decks with a fully enclosed mowing deck with baffles or a mowing deck with mulch kit designed to fully enclose blades with baffles with scalp preventing wheels only. A standard mowing deck with a chute blocker is not sufficient. Mowers shall be sized according to the area to be mowed. Small push or self propelled mowers are required in areas too small for riding machines. Cremation sections shall be mowed with small mowers then trimmed. At no time is freshly mowed grass to be blown onto headstones. Riding mowers may be used if they are not operated within two (2) inches of from headstones, markers, monuments, tree trunks, or other vertical surfaces.

B. Commercial grade power trimmers and power edger’s will be used to trim grass from around headstones, monuments, markers, etc. String trimming shall be accomplished with commercial trimmers with nylon/plastic string and shall be operated with all guards in such a fashion so that no damage is done to headstones, trees, or property. The contractor will use trimmers with a plastic blade attachment to cleanly trim edges around all flat markers. Care must be taken not to chip flat markers with blades.

C. Cutting blades on mowing and trimming equipment must be kept sharp so that grass tips are properly cut‐ ‐ not torn or damaged. Cutting heights of all mowing equipment shall be set according to heights specified below. The height of grass is what is measured to get correct cutting height. Use of cutting equipment that is out of adjustment, thereby causing streaks or irregularities, uneven cutting, plowing, or gouging of the soil is not permitted.

D. No thatch is permitted after mowing. All thatch must be removed or remediated each day.

E. Storage space for Contractor equipment/material may be available on site and must be approved by the Cemetery Director. The Government shall not be held responsible for any damages to the Contractor’s equipment, materials, supplies, or the like which may result from vandalism, theft, etc. while on site. The Cemetery Director has the authority to discontinue storage space if contractor does not maintain property in accordance with NCA standards, OSHA requirements, and VA regulations.

4. PROCEDURE

Turf shall be cut to maintain heights as set forth below:

Cutting Height, Inches Turf grass Species

2.0 TO 3.0 Bermuda/Rye/Fescue

A. Mowing will be inspected by the COR a minimum of once a week during growing season which is normally between April through November. The growing season usually requires a minimum of mowing once weekly. The week before Memorial Day the Cemetery shall be mowed and trimmed twice (2x) and edged once (1). Mowing should be performed often enough so that no more than 1/3 of leafage is removed at any one mowing. Turf in burial and public areas should be maintained at a height within one‐inch range of that which is professionally recommended for the recommended grass type for that geographic region. Optimally, the height should be no more than half an inch above that range. For example, the height of Bermuda grass should be between 2.0” and 3.0”. COR will direct mowing height. Grass is trimmed on borders. Mowing and trimming will be accomplished free of scalping, rutting, bruising, and uneven or rough cutting and thatch. After cutting and trimming, grass will have a uniform height.

B. Trimming the grass (or any vegetation) from around headstones and markers will be accomplished using a power trimmer equipped with a non‐streaking or non‐staining bumper guard with all mowing cycles and as directed by the COR. Trimmers will be held level with the ground on headstones to prevent uneven turf.

C. Grass areas not mowed around headstones, monuments, markers, and other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed with each mowing. Additional trimming outside of the regular schedule may be required by the COR.

D. Trimming around headstones shall leave grass at 2‐3 inches the same height as mowing. Scalping is not acceptable. Where scalping is evident, Contractor will be responsible for repair of the damage at no cost to the Government.

E. Trimming must be performed after mowing not before.

F. EDGING: All streets, curbs, walkways, tree wells, permanent building/structure lines, shrub and flower beds shall be edged as directed by COR. Edging shall provide a clear zone 1/4” wide by 1” deep with all vegetation removed from joints and cracks. Damage to asphalt/concrete shall be avoided. The first edging cycle will be completed at the start of the contract and other cycles shall be completed with the mowing and trimming cycles.

G. Edging of concrete or asphalt roads or walkways shall be with a power edger or stick edger utilizing a metal blade.

H. Flat stones shall be edged with a plastic blade only. Flat stones will be trimmed after edging for all vertical grass higher than the mowing.

I. All un‐mowed grass around headstones, monuments, markers, and any other vertical surfaces shall be trimmed at the same height as the mowing height of the surrounding established turf grass, to prevent scalping between stones or around stones.

J. Care and maintenance of shrubs. Shrubs will be trimmed monthly during the growing season. Shrub trimmings should be removed. Shrub area shall be kept free of shrub trimmings and any other debris. All grass growing in rock gardens, tree rings, and sections where turf cannot be established will be removed.

K. Any clipping deposited on headstones, flat markers, monuments, roadways, walkways (inside and out), flagpole bases, or other non‐turf grass areas, and interment areas will be removed directly following the mowing, trimming, or edging event that produced them.

Any clipping deposited on sidewalks or at public visitor areas including at the Committal Shelter areas will be removed prior to moving to another section.

L. Contractor shall be familiar with and utilize different mowing patterns. Changing direction and patterns reduces turf wear, prevents wheel rutting, and provides a neater appearance. All mowing around trees will be accomplished in a manner that prevents a “ringing pattern” around the tree and associated damage to turf.

M. Mowing, trimming, and edging operations will not damage headstones, markers, flags, floral or commemorative items, structures, survey monuments, irrigation equipment, etc. The contractor will remove and replace all floral, flags or commemorative items, etc. to their proper place while performing mowing services. The contractor shall repair or replace all damaged items caused by the contractor at no additional cost to the cemetery as directed by the COR.

N. New seed or sod will be present at all newly buried gravesites, second interments gravesites, and repaired gravesite locations. New sod will be hand mowed until it is fully established to the point where it will not be damaged by riding mowers. Any damage to new turf by mowers or trimmers shall be replaced at the contractors expense.

LEAF COLLECTION

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to Bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be held responsible for and governed by all the requirements there‐ under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of collecting and removing from the cemetery grounds and the immediate area outside the cemetery wall, all fallen leaves as directed by COR, to keep a debris free appearance. Random inspections shall be conducted by the COR.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

Leaf collection and removal will be accomplished primarily during but not limited to November 1 through February 31 annually as needed according to the amount of fallen leaves. All fallen leaves must be removed during this period, except when delayed by the onset of severe weather conditions. The Contractor shall schedule removal work accordingly.

4. PROCEDURE

A. All leaves will be removed from the Chattanooga National Cemetery a minimum of once per week (or as otherwise authorized by the COR). Leaves and twigs will be hand raked, vacuumed or blown from interment areas into the roadways, collected and properly disposed of from cemetery grounds which includes right of way outside cemetery walls. Leaves may be mulched into the turf so long as excessive accumulations that may cause damage to turf are not left. Any accumulation of mulched leaves will be removed from the cemetery.

B. The Contractor will inspect all areas of the cemetery during this period and ensure that there is no accumulation of leaves in any area.

C. The contractor will provide all labor, equipment and transportation necessary for the collection, removal and disposal of leaves. Removal of leaves away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.

GROUNDS CLEANUP, SNOW AND ICE REMOVAL, TRASH AND DEBRIS REMOVAL, STREET CLEANING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements to bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of collecting and removing all trash, debris, dead or unsightly flowers, tree limbs, snow and ice, as well as any other debris within the cemetery area, to include all turf areas, walkways, and roads and perimeter.

3. EQUIPMENT

A. PTO driven or Tow behind blower capable of cleaning debris accumulation from roads and walkways.

B. Hand-held or backpack blowers for cleaning debris from roads and walkways.

C. Shovels for scraping mud, dirt and debris from roadways and walkways.

D. Streetsweeper with dust control for cleaning mud and dirt from roadways.

4. REQUIREMENTS

A. All trash, debris, contents of public trashcans, dead or unsightly flowers, and fallen tree limbs below twelve (12) inches in diameter will be removed from the cemetery grounds a minimum of once every day during the work week and on holidays containing burial operations (up to 11 holidays) or special events such as Memorial Day Weekend, Veterans Day and Wreaths Across America.

B. Roads, shelters, walkways, pavilion, columbaria’s and all concrete or asphalt surfaces will be blown or swept clean every morning by 0900 AM.

C. All surfaces will be blown or swept clean of all dirt and debris from the days operations before close of business each day.

D. Roads will be swept, shoveled or blown after the close of burial operations each day to remove any dirt or debris from roadways and walkways. When blowing care shall be taken to minimize dirt and debris from being blown around people or vehicles or from creating airborne dust clouds. When being swept water‐based dust control measures shall be used at all times to minimize airborne dirt and debris.

E. The Contractor will provide the necessary labor and suitable conveyance each workday for pickup of this debris from cemetery grounds. Dumpster and pickup services will be provided by Contractor.

F. Removal of debris and disposal away from the cemetery grounds shall be the responsibility of the Contractor.

G. All walkways, roads, and parking areas will be monitored daily.

H. Cemetery area includes all the cemetery property to include surrounding areas of inside and outside the wall to the road.

MULCHING

1. GENERAL

All work performed under this section is subject to the General Requirements and Contract Documents to bidders which form a part of these specifications, and the Contractor shall be responsible for and governed by all the requirements there under.

2. SCOPE

Work consists of mulching all rock areas not able to grow turf and the berm behind the maintenance shop.

Contractor will supply clean long needle pine straw mulch for all areas requiring mulch.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A) Mulching shall be required approximately Two (2) times a year, at the COR’s discretion and direction around all rock areas within the cemetery applied at a depth of 4‐5 inches with depth diminishing up to any trees to not be piled against the base (trunks) of trees (i.e., mulch should cover the soil up to the trunk, but not be piled against it, no mulch “volcanoes”).

B) Mulching shall also be required at other various locations within the cemetery; i.e., the berm behind the maintenance shop and shaded areas in burial sections that do not allow for grass growth. The COR will determine exact locations of areas needing mulching.

C) Mulching shall be applied in early May, and again late August to aid in aesthetic appearance and decomposition.

D) Dates are approximate. Work shall be coordinated and scheduled by the COR and will be determined at the COR’s discretion.

Number & Size Rock Mulch Beds

Mulch Areas: 15 Approximate Total sq. ft.: 116,000

DOCUMENTS EXHIBITS AND ATTACHMENTS

AT VA FACILITIES

REQUIREMENT SUMMARY

See attachment

WAGE DETERMINATION

ATTACHMENT A

Security and Law Enforcement at Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities

§1.218 Security and law enforcement at VA facilities.

(a) Authority and rules of conduct. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 901‐905, the following rules and regulations apply at all property under the charge and control of VA (and not under the charge and control of the General Services Administration) and to all persons entering in or on such property. The head of the facility is charged with the responsibility for the enforcement of these rules and regulations and shall cause these rules and regulations to be posted in a conspicuous place on the property.

(1) Closing property to public. The head of the facility, or designee, shall establish visiting hours for the convenience of the public and…