36C78625B0038 0003.pdf

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Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers

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is extended,

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning __________ copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY is not extended.

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15C. DATE SIGNED

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

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Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

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Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

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13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

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AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

(Signature of person authorized to sign) (Signature of Contracting Officer)

1 1

0003 07-20-2025

941-002

36C786

Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle VA 22172

36C786

Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration Contracting Services 18434 Joplin Road Triangle VA 22172

To all Offerors/Bidders

36C78625B0038

07-03-2025

X

X X

** HOUR & DATE for Receipt of Offers is EXTENDED to: 09-08-2025 14:30 EDT

X 1

This amendment is to extend the bid opening from 9/2/2025 from 9/8/2025at 2:30 PM EST.

Please see responses to RFI's on the continuation page. It includes responses that were posted amendment 0001.

All other terms and conditions shall remain the same.

Auvorie Benson Contracting Officer

Questions and Answers

1. Drawing S321 Detail 1 shows a straight Weir Wall across the pond at elevation 3770, with a crest at 3775.50. However, irrigation water enters at 3776, and sediment will accumulate and overflow at the southeastern end of the wall before reaching the northeastern corner—potentially releasing sediment into the clean water zone. Has the engineer conducted hydraulic and sediment transport modeling to validate this design?

Our models suggest shifting the northeastern corner further east and aligning the southeastern corner closer to the 3776 turn line to promote more uniform sediment settling.

The Civil Engineer’s design intent was to have the top of the weir wall match the elevation of the irrigation volume required. Since this pond serves both as an irrigation and stormwater pond, the elevation at which the weir would need to be set at to allow for clean water to overtop varies from event to event.

2. Detail CS403 on Sheet C-5 (1”=10’ scale) indicates that safely excavating and installing the Weir Wall would require full removal of the pond’s northwest corner to allow proper equipment access. Given the extent of excavation needed, would the VA consider a Value Engineering (VE) proposal that achieves equivalent sediment control outcomes with a more constructible approach?

VE suggestions are always welcomed to be considered. Any VE will need to be validated after award before contractor can assume for this in their price. Depending on the level of effort to validate the VE suggestion if the contractor is not providing their own stamped engineering, the A/E may need to seek a contract modification to review.

3. What are the specified compaction requirements for the pond base, sidewalls, and rim during reconstruction, including the acceptable material types for each zone (e.g., soil classification, gradation, moisture content)? Additionally, what are the required compaction test intervals during placement—both in terms of horizontal spacing and lift depth—to verify compliance with project specifications?

Refer to Section 5 of the Geotechnical report dated December 12, 2024, for earthwork recommendations and compaction requirements. Refer to Specification 01 45 29 for testing intervals.

4. Approximately how much riprap is currently surrounding the liner and pond? Will that need to be placed back?

A/E does not have information regarding the sizing or depth of rip rap that surrounds the pond. The pond area is roughly 1,050 sq ft to use for estimates. Yes, the pond will need to be restored to its current aesthetics after construction activities.

5. Where does the pumphouse suction pipe penetrate the pond liner to connect to the pump? Please provide the exact location, elevation, and detail reference, if available.

Reference photo below from spring 2024 showing some pump and drainage components.

6. Will the inlet suction pipe include a microfilter or screen to prevent silt and debris from entering the pump and mainline irrigation system? If not, is the pipe intended to remain fully exposed to the pond water without any form of intake protection?

The current inlet pipe includes a screen which is to remain:

7. The Toro 570ZPR spray heads specified are designed for clean water applications.

Given the high potential for silt infiltration in this system, would it be acceptable to substitute with the Rain Bird 1800 SAM PRS Series with the Dirty Water Screen (DWS) option? This head includes built-in pressure regulation comparable to the 570ZPR and is specifically engineered for sediment-laden water. All performance parameters—PSI, zone coverage, and spray distances—remain equivalent.

Yes, this is an acceptable solution. Irrigation drawings will be reissued after RFI period is complete to show this option.

8. A subcontractor previously involved in the development indicated that blasting of basalt rock was required. Will blasting be permitted for this project? If so, will the VA require pre- and post-blast condition surveys of adjacent properties, including nearby residences and the City Cemetery? Additionally, in the event of damage to any of these properties resulting from blasting, will the responsibility for repairs rest solely with the contractor, or will the government share in the associated costs?

Yes, blasting will be permitted. See the General Requirements specifications section 01 00 02, “1.11 Protection of Existing Vegetation, Structures, Equipment, Utilities, and Improvements” for requirements.

9. With the anticipated development of the PPC and IGC fields, will the existing access road require replacement or reinforcement due to the frequent use by heavy construction vehicles and equipment? Please clarify if the current roadway is rated for this level of traffic, or if upgrades are planned as part of the project scope.

See Civil note below that is on the Erosion Control plan. The intent is to minimize any construction vehicles using the existing roadway; there should not be frequent use by heavy construction vehicles and equipment – use the construction access and temporary road as noted on the drawings. Contractor will be required to repair road damage to existing roads.

10. Please give a comprehensive clarification regarding installer and manufacturer qualifications as referenced in the following specification sections:

• Section 034821 1.6 C – Installer qualifications for precast concrete installations

• Section 03 48 24 – Columbarium niche units, hardware, and cover systems

• Section 04 73 00 1.3 – Installer qualification for columbarium niche covers

Reference Specifications 03 48 24 and 03 48 26.

11. Will the site maintenance contractor require access to the pond area during the pond construction activities in order to perform their ongoing responsibilities? If so, please clarify the expected level of access, coordination requirements, and any scheduling considerations that should be accounted for during the work.

The contractor uses the pond exclusively for irrigation from Mar/Apr to Oct/Nov. I’m assuming the construction activities in the pond are in the non-irrigating season so there shouldn’t be any issues. He does keep most of his equipment in the area which needs to be observed.

12. Can you provide data on the average number of visitors and burials the cemetery receives per week during the summer months compared to the winter months? This information will help inform construction scheduling and access coordination near the site.

SRCNC averages 1.25 burials per week. It’s consistent throughout the year. Visitation is very low year-round as well.

13. During the winter, when the pond will be emptied and unavailable, will there be an alternative water source available on-site for contractor use? Considering the cemetery relies on the pond for irrigation, please clarify if any temporary or backup water supply will be accessible during this period.

The pond exclusively feeds the irrigation system which is winterized in the non-irrigation months. This should not be an issue for the contractor in the winter months.

14. These sections reference certification requirements, prior experience standards, and installer eligibility conditions that may affect subcontractor selection, bid compliance, and contract performance. To that end, please confirm the following:

Approved Lists and Certification Processes

• Does the VA or NCA maintain a list of approved or certified installers and/or manufacturers for precast crypts, columbarium units, niche covers, or associated hardware systems?

Unfortunately, there’s not a list. However, the contractor shall ensure that the installers and manufactures meet the requirements stated in the specifications.

• What constitutes an "approved certification process" for niche cover installation or precast columbarium systems?

For niche covers, see 034824, 1.5 Installer Qualifications.

For precast columbarium systems, see 034824, 1.4 Manufacturer Qualifications.

Acceptable Experience

• Would an installer or manufacturer whose experience is limited to utility boxes, precast utility vaults, stone veneers, meet the requirement for experience for installation of burial crypts and columbariums “similar in scope and complexity”?

See 034824, 1.5 Installer Qualifications that specifically notes the installer has previously completed at least 3 successful NCA columbarium projects within the past 10 years.

Also note that mock-up installations are required for inspection and sign-off.

• For Section 03 48 24:

o Does “custom units” refer specifically to columbarium/niche systems or to any precast concrete unit that deviates from standard design?

It refers to the custom columbarium units.

o What qualifies as a “similar design” for niche cover fastener systems under Section 1.4 C?

Similar design refers to an NCA columbarium project with niche cover fastener systems.

Penalties and Consequences for Non-Compliance

• If the awarded contractor is unable to provide an installer that meets the required qualifications:

o What are the contractual consequences (e.g., rejection, termination for default, re-bid)?

o No. The requirements for installer qualifications are firm and must be met at the time of contract award and performance. There is no established waiver process under FAR Part 14. Bidders are expected to ensure compliance with all solicitation requirements prior to submission and during contract performance.

Any proposed personnel must meet all mandatory qualification criteria as specified.

o Does the VA offer any case-by-case evaluation process or temporary waiver mechanism for otherwise qualified personnel?

o No. The requirements for installer qualifications are firm and must be met at the time of contract award and performance. There is no established waiver process under FAR Part 14. Bidders are expected to ensure compliance with all solicitation requirements prior to submission and during contract performance.

Any proposed personnel must meet all mandatory qualification criteria as specified.

Combined Supply and Installation Requirement

In cases where the specifications require that supply and installation be provided by the same entity (e.g., fastener systems in Section 1.4 C), does this allow for subcontracting if both parties meet experience thresholds and certifications?

Yes

15. The site meeting time shows 1000PST, but Idaho is in Mountain Time, should this be adjusted for Mountain Time?

Yes. 1000MST. Everyone shall meet the Cemetery Rep at the Flagpole

16. Regarding the newly planted Rocky Mountain Junipers along the perimeter fence line, I would like clarification on the intended irrigation method. Specifically:

o Is it the government's intention to have these trees sustained via the existing drip irrigation line?

Refer to the note on the irrigation demo plan. Existing drip line is to be removed and replaced by pop up spray sprinklers along the south berm. Reissued drawings will also show water bags around tree trunks during establishment.

From discussions with the previous landscaping company, we were informed that the drip system struggled significantly to establish the earlier plantings. The issues cited included:

Silty water reducing emitter efficiency

Heavy winds accelerating water loss before proper soil absorption o Additionally, it's worth noting that trees installed during the original development were supported by sprinkler bubblers, which seemed to be more effective for deeper watering of larger root systems.

17. Following up on the irrigation concerns, I’d like to ask for clarification regarding the trees located outside the perimeter fence line:

a. It appears that these trees do not have bubbler irrigation installed, unlike other trees already established on-site.

Reissued irrigations plans will show new bubblers for these two existing trees outside of the fence. There are no new trees proposed outside of the fence.

b. Can you confirm whether bubbler systems will be required to furnish water directly to the roots of these trees, in line with the existing standards on the property?

No, the trees outside of the perimeter fence will not have bubblers.

18. While the North–South Weir detail is provided on Sheet CS403, there is no East– West detail shown. This detail is necessary to determine whether the wall is designed as a straight or curved structure and to fully understand the footing configuration.

Additionally, the current Weir detail lacks information on subgrade preparation, compaction requirements, and base rock or soil specifications. Can the engineer provide the missing East–West section and clarify the required foundation and compaction details?

The wall is designed as a straight weir wall measuring 53’ from end to end. Per the Foundation Notes on S-001, subgrade preparation and compaction shall follow the recommendations outlined in the Geotechnical Report.

19. The perimeter fence along the southern edge of the pond borders property owned by a large multinational agricultural company. Has coordination been made with this property owner to allow excavation on their side for construction of the southern end of the Weir? If not, what type of equipment or methods were assumed by the engineer/design team to construct the Weir, considering the steep slope of the pond in that area? Additionally, what construction techniques or means-and-methods documentation was provided to the government to demonstrate that the current Weir design is constructible within the physical site constraints?

According to our planned 4:1 tie back slope, the contractor and VA will need to coordinate a temporary work access easement with the property owner to the south of the fence line. Per design conversations, a crushed CMP to the south of the fence line is resulting in poor drainage for the southern property and contributing to sediment infiltrating the irrigation pond. The construction of the proposed cross pan will increase drainage in the area and it should be advantageous for the southern property owner to allow temporary access on the property.

20. How many times the word “Trash” and “Flower Vase” are to be repeated on the band decal by chance? (On the Details Page, it only shows the front view) Twice. Once on each side.

21. What are the quantities for the “Trash” Receptacle?

One

22. What are the quantities for the “Flower Vase” Receptacle? (We do not have access to those set of plans) One

23. Drawing LS508/Detail 2 states, “Stainless steel anchorage, size and spacing by contractors engineer” whereas drawing LS511/Detail 3 states, “Field drill hole for ½”SS Pin”. Please advise what type, depth and length of anchorage should be assumed for Precast Columbarium Units.”

NCA typical standards are 1/2" x 7" S.S. Anchor Bolts to be located inline with clip angles.

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

Yes

25. Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of

SSHO?

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

N/A

27. Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of

QA/QC?

No

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

Yes. This project is very complexed and requires a fulltime QA/QC.

29. Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and

QA/QC?

No.

30. Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?

31. Please provide the latest wage determination for this project’s county.

Attached in the solicitation.

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

33. Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent?

The NCA will appoint that.

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

This project is an outdoor cemetery and does not involve any indoor work or infection control risk that would require ICRA compliance.

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

Yes, however, we are amendable on case-by-case basis.

36. Please confirm if there is assumed asbestos on any piping that is to be removed whether underground or within manholes or buildings?

The cemetery site was developed beginning in 2020, and there is no known or assumed asbestos in any piping, manholes, or structures associated with this project. No asbestos abatement is anticipated or required.

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

There are no glycol-based systems identified in the contract documents or known to exist on site. Please notify us if you have identified a specific location of concern for further review.

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

The building HVAC systems are stand-alone and not connected to a BAS. No vendor is currently under contract for servicing temperature controls.

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

There is no specific restriction on the amount of open trenching in the contract documents. The contractor is expected to follow OSHA trench safety requirements and maintain site access, public safety, and erosion control in accordance with project specifications and governing regulations. Please submit a trenching plan for review if extended open trenches are anticipated.

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

Contractor is responsible. See specifications 32 39 00 PLANTING and 01 00 02

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS (1.21 F).

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

See the Geotechnical Report, 5.9.2 On-Site Soil, 5.9.4 Trench Backfill.

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

See Question #43 response.

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

For questions 42 and 43, refer to the ‘Additional Items Information for Rock Removal’ section on page 6 of the solicitation. The Government requires unit pricing for excavation, blasting, and haul-off beyond estimated quantities. These unit prices will be used for adjustments if actual quantities vary by more than 15%. The contractor is responsible for verifying site conditions.

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

There is no known or documented contaminated soil on site, and no such conditions are identified in the contract documents. The contractor is responsible for notifying the owner and governing agencies immediately if any suspect materials are encountered during excavation.

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

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

47. There is a +/- 15’ deep storm water / ground water drainage pump station (Sheet CG104) required to be installed at the NW corner of Section 6 (precast crypt field) near Road A.

• We do not see that electrical power route and or electrical power source / tie in point is shown in the drawings. Please provide.

• Please confirm existing power service available voltage.

• Are the controls and alarms local to the pump station only or are there remote monitoring, control or alarm requirements?

• Sheet CG104 includes a note “2” Conduit for Level Control Cables”. We assume this would be to the pump control panel. Where is this pump control panel located?

See sheets E-001, E-002, and E-100 in the reissued drawing set for this information.

48. Boring 9, which is in the middle of IGC Field 5, has “rock” at +/- 3.5’. Are there any requirements to verify and or provide a certain rock free depth for cremains burial?

A total of 3 feet of rock-free depth is required from finished grade to ensure proper cremain placement and compliant soil cover. The contractor is responsible for verifying that each cremains burial site provides a full 3-foot depth free of rock or other obstructions, suitable for interment and future maintenance activities. Any rock removal necessary to achieve this depth is included in the scope of work.

49. The Civil Engineer (CE) has provided only a design intent rather than a fully developed design.

Detailed information of height of wall is shown on the reissued design documents. Bid as shown on civil and structural sheets.

50. If the installed system does not meet the intent and silt infiltration continues into the new pump system, how will the contractor be held accountable?

The contractor is responsible for constructing the system in accordance with the design documents. The improvements are intended as a temporary mitigation measure to reduce sediment entering the irrigation system; however, they are not a guaranteed long-term solution. As such, the contractor will not be held accountable for continued silt infiltration provided the work is completed per the contract documents and approved submittals. The long-term intent is to connect irrigation to a future water main extension along Elm Street.

51. Will the contractor be relieved of warranty obligations in the event the design intent is found inadequate, since the intent was not proven or tested for performance prior to construction?

See response to Question #51

52. There appears to be no design provided for the Weir Wall, only a recommendation. Please clarify whether this project is intended as design-bid-build or design-build. If this is design-bid-build, when will the complete design information (including footing and wall details) be issued? The columbarium footing has a base design shown—why is there no equivalent design provided for the Weir Wall footing and structure?

Detail 1/S-321 shows the design provided for the weir wall, which includes the size of the footing, stem wall, and reinforcing. Additionally, per the Foundation Notes on S-001, subgrade preparation and compaction shall follow the recommendations outlined in the Geotechnical Report. Sheet CS-403 has also been revised with additional information. All complete design information has been issued.

53. What do the as-built drawings indicate regarding the existing riprap placement around the pond? Does the current pond liner utilize the riprap for anchorage or support? What are the design aesthetics and restoration standards that the contractor will be required to meet when restoring the pond area? Has the designer reviewed the as-builts for these features, and can the results of their field inspection or assessment of the pond area be provided? Is there a design document or reference standard for the pond restoration scope? The above clarifications are necessary to understand existing site conditions and determine the requirements for pond liner anchorage, riprap integration, and aesthetic restoration criteria. This will ensure accurate planning, pricing, and compliance with design intent. This is not a well-designed scope of work.

The above clarifications are necessary to understand existing site conditions and determine the requirements for pond liner anchorage, riprap integration, and aesthetic restoration criteria. This will ensure accurate planning, pricing, and compliance with design intent. This is not a well-designed scope of work.

The existing as-builts indicate 6" andesite cobble was used for riprap placement around the pond. The existing stone cobble riprap is to be reused unless otherwise damaged or unsuitable. The scope of work does not include restoration of the pond beyond removal and replacement of the existing liner and associated riprap. The contractor is responsible for completing the work in accordance with the specifications, including Section 33 47 13 – Pond Lining, which provides requirements for the liner system. No additional design documents or aesthetic restoration standards are applicable, as the work is limited to replacement in kind.

54. In response to the Q&A Question 5 & 6, thank you for the picture, but this does not give diameter, length, depth or any design information? Please provide.

See below for as-built design detail from first phase of project. A/E cannot guarantee accuracy of this detail and contractor is to verify all site conditions.

55. if blasting is allowed, how will the current burial crypts be inspected as the blasting will break them?

The contractor is responsible for protecting all existing facilities and infrastructure, including existing burial crypts, columbaria walls, and neighboring property structures from damage during construction activities. If blasting is performed, the contractor shall employ controlled blasting techniques and vibration monitoring to minimize impacts to adjacent structures.

Any blasting activities must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations, and shall be executed under the direction of a licensed blasting subcontractor.

• Prior to any blasting, the contractor shall:

• Submit a blasting plan for approval that includes vibration limits and monitoring locations. It is recommended to use conservative limits (2.0 mm/s at frequencies < 30 Hz) to prevent microcracking or joint separation of crypts, along with sensor placements and alarm thresholds.

• Conduct a pre-blast condition survey of nearby structures, documented with photographs and/or video (including on and off-site elements). This includes a photographic log of surface conditions, survey benchmarks with existing elevations over crypt areas, and Ground-Penetrating Radar scan results locating crypt extents and depth.

• Monitor vibrations during blasting to ensure they remain within safe thresholds.

• Conduct a post-blast inspection and report to confirm no damage has occurred.

If damage is identified, the contractor shall be responsible for repair or replacement to the satisfaction of the Government and at no additional cost. The specific methods for crypt inspection are considered part of the contractor’s means and methods and should be addressed in their blasting and monitoring plan.

56. If only semi and light weight trucks are to be on the paved road, how will a track excavator get to the crypt and IGC fields as the curbed area, front entrance and the existing columbarium/memorial will impeded access of these? There is no delivery access other than then main cemetery entrance. This sounds like the designer has not been to the site to see the access points.

The design team has conducted multiple site visits. As clarified in previous Q&A Response #9 and shown on the plans, the designated construction delivery access near the east pond is intended to be used to avoid contractor use of the ceremonial front entrance. No construction vehicles are to use the main entrance. The designated construction access provides sufficient access for construction equipment, including a track excavator, to reach the construction staging and laydown areas. Equipment will be permitted to use Road A and Road C to reach the expansion areas as needed, though the contractor will be responsible for any repairs needed to road, curbs, and gutters, as a result of construction activity.

57. With the requirement to remove the pond liner and install the new pump, the expansion contractor’s access to the work area is significantly limited due to the presence of the maintenance contractor already operating in the same yard.

Current information suggests that liability for damages will fall on the expansion contractor, despite the constrained working conditions.

The expansion contractor should expect to coordinate closely with the maintenance contractor to minimize disruptions and ensure safe work conditions.

58. When will the new irrigation drawings be available?

They are available with the “Addendum 1 – Reissued for Bid” set.

59. Please provide the complete design documents for the Weir Wall, including details for the subbase rock depth. Confirm whether the wall is intended to be a continuous 60-inch high weir wall or if it steps down in height at any locations?

No design has been provided for the continuous footing of the Weir Wall. The only footing details provided relate to the columbarium/memorial wall, which show total static footing lengths. We require a footing design for the Weir Wall to establish an accurate basis of construction for bidding and building.

Without this information, the scope appears to fall under a design/build approach rather than design-bid-build. Please clarify and provide the necessary design documents. Complete design details are needed to ensure accurate cost estimating, scheduling, and construction planning for the Weir Wall. Lack of footing and subbase specifications poses a risk to both bid accuracy and constructability.

Please see to Question 58

60. Has the VA or the Designer contacted the landowner to secure site access? No

61. If contact has been made, what is the cost, and what is the expected timeframe for when access will be available? See response in question 62.

62. If no contact has been made, please clarify how we should proceed. Is this intended to be handled by the contractor without prior coordination or investigation?

This lack of clarity regarding access, along with limited technical and design information, makes the project appear closer to a design-build scope rather than design-bid-build. Please confirm expectations for responsibility and next steps.

Confirmation is required to plan access logistics, schedule impacts, and cost implications. Clear direction is needed before proceeding with work planning.

Coordination for a temporary access easement will be required between the contractor, VA, and the property owner as part of construction planning. The contractor should anticipate managing this coordination effort as part of their means and methods. The government will not provide cost or schedule estimates related to access easement negotiations; these are contractor responsibilities.

Provide allowance in bid for constructing temporary retaining wall, if necessary, to do pond work if access from adjacent landowner is not permitted.

63. On page LS Detail 1 there is a call out for a filler strip, currently the existing memorial wall does not have a filler strip, is this an error?

The design documents match the existing conditions of the walls. Bid as designed in the memorial wall details. A filler strip is the limestone that surrounds the niche unit and is engraved; this is present for the existing walls.

64. Please confirm the method of installation for the existing pond liner. Specifically:

• Is the current liner system installed using an earth anchor method, or is it an earthen screw anchor system?

• No design documents have been provided for the liner system—please clarify if any design details exist or if additional information will be issued.

As-builts indicate 24” x 12” anchor trench around pond liner perimeter for anchor system. Liner is to extend up riprap to top of bank, typ. See below for pond liner as-built details. Contractor to verify in-field existing conditions after award and use the same anchoring system to return to existing conditions. See As-Built details below.

65. Can the receptacle boxes and data boxes be surface mounted and piped on block wall sides?

As specified in specification section 26 05 33 3.1 A 13. and 27 05 33 3.1 C. 19.

unless otherwise indicated on drawings or specified herein, conceal conduits within finished walls, floors and ceilings.

66. Please provide additional information regarding the Gravesite Locator Kiosk.

Who will supply the equipment? Who is installing the equipment? What electrical/low voltage requirements does it have?

The contractor shall be responsible for the installation of the gravesite locator and will need to provide a data connection from the nearby data receptacle shown on floorplan “NEW STORAGE 101 BUILDING FLOORPLAN – POWER” On sheet E100. The government will supply the equipment. Wiring requirements include one RJ45/Cat-6 network jack and one 110v electrical outlet. The network jack and power outlet should be located within 4’ of the back of the kiosk.

67. Are the Rosettes supplied by Owner or by the Contractor?

Rosettes and associated hardware are supplied by the Contractor. See specification section 03 48 24 and detail drawings.

68. (Sheet LS-507 Drawings 6 of 8) Is there a list of all the items that the Gov. will be providing for the project such as the Niche’s on the Memorial Wall? Also for the niche’s will the Gov. provide the manufacturer of cut sheets for the units they are going to provide so that we can assess what the time frame might be for installation in our bids?

There is not a list available for government-provided items. Contractor to reference drawings and specifications for that information. A/E is unclear what the contractor is asking. A “niche” on a columbarium wall refers to the individual compartment or space that holds cremains. The contractor is responsible for providing the concrete wall units in full which includes niches. The memorial wall includes a white marble niche cover that the government provides and the contractor installs. See specification section 04 73 10 Memorial Wall Markers.

69. Should the Contractor expect shutdowns for occasional graveside services during construction?

Yes. The cemetery shall inform the contractor of ceremonies that may suspend work momentarily. Typically, we give a schedule weekly when available.

70. Are there any items that will be salvaged for this project?

Note the pond-related items to be salvaged and reused as noted on plans, specs, and RFI responses. Also see CD101 for post barricades and locking chain to be salvaged and reused.

71. Will winter conditions/protection be a set allowance or done on a time and materials basis for this project?

On a case-by-case basis.

72. For Clarity the Gov. is providing the Covers only for the Columbarium, the Columbarium precast boxes are the responsibility of the Contractor to purchase and install correct?

Yes, the government is providing the Nice Covers as noted in SECTION 03 48 24 and SECTION 04 73 00. The contractor is responsible for furnishing, delivering, and installing the precast units.

73. (Sheet A-600 on 7 of 8 drawings) Note 6 it states that all signs will be provided by the Gov. and installed by the Contractor. Can we get cut sheets prior to the bid to ensure we have allowed the proper time for installation? Will all the signs come with mounting hardware or will this be on the contractor?

Note 6 was revised on the reissued set. Contractor is to provide the building sign and mounting hardware.

74. Does the pond liner go over the Weir Wall? If so, please show how the liner is to attach to the Weir wall to prevent the Liner from movement. If not, is the pond liner a two-piece liner terminating at the base of Weir Wall?

See the reissued drawing set, sheet CS403.

75. In both the plans and specs it talked about removing the existing Stainless Steel Gravesite Locator Box with an electronic locator. The spec doesn’t call out what device we should be using and its requirements. The drawings state on Page A- 100 Detail 3 just speaks to the layout and “intent”, but it gives no information on brand, model or otherwise for the Kiosk. We need the details and NOT “INTET” on this device so it can be priced correctly.

Detail 3/A-100 provides the construction detail for the kiosk installation. The kiosk itself will be VA-provided. The model is the NCA Indoor/Outdoor Through-The- Wall Kiosk”. Additional information that is available includes:

i. Two doors that open 15” to the rear are used to service the kiosk.

ii. The front (public) side of the kiosk has an integral 2” front bezel that will cover the edges of the rough opening. This 2” area around the rough opening must be a flat surface and not an uneven finish, such as siding, rock or uneven brick. Ideally the rough opening should be wood framed, although masonry or metal studs may also be used.

A.1 OTHER ATTACHMENTS

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 1 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 2 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 3 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 4 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 5 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 6 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 7 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion Bid Set - Plans 8 of 8.

See attached document: 941002 SRCNC Gravesite Expansion - Project Manual Spec Book R2.1.

End of Document