S05_Attachment - RFIs and Answers.xlsx
XLSX spreadsheet 314 KB Posted
- Solicitation number
- 36C78626R0008
About this file
This file is a Request for Information (RFI) and Answers document for the Alabama National Cemetery - Gravesite Expansion Phase 3 project, containing 181 RFIs submitted by prospective bidders and government responses addressing clarifications on contract documents, specifications, drawings, and project requirements.
Key clarifications addressed include: (1) Schedule submission in Primavera P6 format is acceptable in lieu of Microsoft Project; (2) OSHA 30-hour training is limited to foremen, supervisors, and competent persons, while all workers must complete OSHA 10-hour training; (3) Volume I proposal limit of 40 pages applies including cover sheets and section dividers; (4) Shoal Creek temporary crossing was inadvertently left on plans from previous design and is not included in current scope; (5) rock excavation up to 2,000 cubic yards is included in base bid pricing, with excess treated as a differing site condition; (6) general fill materials must comply with Specification 31 20 00 requirements (3/4-inch maximum particle size in burial sections, minimum 110 pcf dry density, maximum 15 plasticity index, maximum 40 liquid limit), with the geotechnical report provided for informational purposes only; (7) field office must be approved and onsite prior to start of construction; (8) precast crypts are standard 7'-6" configuration with plots at 7'-8"; (9) a dedicated Project Manager, Site Superintendent, Quality Control Manager, and Site Safety Officer are all required and cannot be dual-hatted; (10) NTP is anticipated no later than 10/30/2026 with early turnover of Sections 4 and 10 required by May 1, 2028; (11) contractor is responsible for all permitting associated with temporary impacts, NPDES permit, SWPPP preparation, and vehicle authorization requests; (12) design AutoCAD files are not available to bidders, who must rely on provided plans, specifications, and bid documents for takeoffs; (13) water will be available from the irrigation pond at contractor's expense; (14) no generators are permitted for temporary construction trailers; and (15) both the Price Schedule and Price Proposal Breakdown must be completed, with the breakdown submitted for the grand total.
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Sheet1
| RFI # | RFI | Government Response |
| 1 | The contract specifications currently reference development and submission of the project schedule in Microsoft Project (MSP) format. Please confirm whether preparation and submission of the project schedule in Primavera P6 format in lieu of Microsoft Project is acceptable for this project. | Primavera acceptable. |
| 2 | CT201 ROADWAY A PLAN & PROFILES - BASE BID: The drawing package appears to be missing Sheet No. 66 – CT201, Roadway A Plan & Profiles (Base Bid). Please confirm whether this sheet was intentionally omitted or if it will be issued as part of a forthcoming addendum. | Sheet CT201 added to documents. |
| 3 | 3024: The solicitation indicates that an organized site visit will be conducted on February 18, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST, with attendees to meet at the Alabama National Cemetery Administration Building. As the project site is located in the Central Time Zone, 10:00 AM EST corresponds to 9:00 AM local time. Please confirm the intended local time for the site visit to ensure proper coordination and attendance. | N/A completed. |
| 4 | Specification Section 01 00 02, 1.1 G, Training, indicates that all employees of the general contractor and subcontractors must have successfully completed 30-hour OSHA-certified training. On similar federal construction projects of comparable or greater size, the typical requirement has been OSHA 10-hour training for all workers, with OSHA 30-hour training reserved for supervisors and trade competent persons. Requiring OSHA 30-hour certification for all field personnel may significantly limit available subcontractor labor pools and could impact procurement, mobilization timelines, and overall project cost. | Confirmed, OSHA 30 limited to Formen, Supervisors and Competent persons. All workers required to have OSHA 10. |
| 5 | For clarity and to ensure full compliance with the solicitation requirements, we respectfully request confirmation regarding how page limits will be applied to Volume I and its individual evaluation factors. Cover Sheets / Title Pages. Do cover sheets or title pages included for organizational purposes (e.g., section dividers for Experience, Past Performance, or Technical Proposal) count toward the stated page limits for each evaluation factor and/or the overall 40-page Volume I limit? | According to the solicitation, Volume I must be submitted in a single PDF document not exceeding 40 pages in length and less than 8MB in size. The specific page limits for individual components within Volume I are outlined as follows: |
Title Page: Maximum of 1 page Evaluation Factor 1 – Experience: Maximum of 8 pages Evaluation Factor 3 – Technical Approach: Maximum of 10 pages This leaves a remainder of 21 pages available for Evaluation Factor 2 – Past Performance.
The solicitation does not explicitly request or require the use of cover sheets or section dividers. Therefore, if such cover sheets or section dividers are used for organizational purposes within Volume I, they will count towards the overall 40-page limit.
| 6 | ERROR:#VALUE! | See Section L.10.2 Proposal Submission Instructions, and Section M Evaluation Factors For Award of the solicitation. |
| 7 | Regarding Shoal Creek Temporary and Permanent Crossing: | See 7A - 7H |
| 7A | Can the VA provide what studies and permitting have been started and / or completed? | Targeted Threatened & Endangered Species Report and associated studies complete, USFWS approved stating no listed species/critical habitat within project area. Preliminary Jurisdictional Determination approved by USACE, JD out for public comment. FEMA permit preliminary approved, waiting on any public comment. |
| 7B | Is a USACE Permit (maybe a 404 Permit) Required? | 404 Permit for permanent impacts is under review by USACE. |
| 7C | Will Wetland or Stream Bank Credits be required and who will be responsible if so? | Yes, Program Office is responsible. |
| 7D | Are there any known issues with endangered species and / or historical issues? | None known, a Targeted Threatened & Endangered Species Report and associated studies complete, USFWS approved stating no listed species/critical habitat within project area. |
| 7E | Does Shelby County and / or Birmingham have any jurisdiction and require permits, etc.…? | Requirements would include input for SWPP and NPDES/NOI or any other Federal related permits for temporary impacts. |
| 7F | Is a No-Rise Certificate or similar required? | Shoal Creek crossing tag was inadvertently left on the plans from a previous design. All temporary impact permitting is the responsibility of the GC. |
| 7G | Does Temporary Crossing design and erosion control design at creek meet ADEM requirements? | No temporary crossing provided for Shoal Creek (Shoal Creek crossing tag was inadvertently left on the plans from a previous design.), any temporary impacts / permits are the responsibility of the GC. Per C-201, Salem Road may be used to access for bridge construction only. All other construction traffic to use the new bridge. |
| 7H | Can the Temp Crossing be installed so that crossing can be used when bridge is being constructed? | See RFI 7G. |
| 8 | Detail TSC on GC501 (Temp Culvert Stream Crossing) includes note “Minimum pipe diameters sized as specified in Pipe Diameters for Stream Crossings”. We do not see that this table or that diameters have been provided. Please provide diameter for both the Shoal Creek crossing pipes and smaller stream south of Burial Field 14 pipes. | The smaller stream crossings south of burial section 14 will use their permanent culvert sizing as shown on sheets CG101 and CG108. Shoal Creek crossing tag was inadvertently left on the plans from a previous design. There are no crossings proposed with this plan that will impact the stream at the ordinary high-water mark. |
| 9 | General Requirements 01 00 02 1.11D sates that the Contractor is responsible for obtaining the NPDES permit for this project. Does the Erosion and Sediment Control Drawings and Specs that have been provided meet NPDES / ADEM design requirements? | Plans designed to meet NPDES requirements. GC responsible for any temporary impacts or modification of limits of disturbance. |
| 10 | The pdf files provided are missing sheet 66 and sheet 65 is cutoff halfway. Please provide / update. | Sheet 66 added to documents. Sheet 65 is not cutoff, see match line referencing Sheet 64. |
| 11 | Landscape Drawings(Sheets LP102-112) : The legend includes Zeon Zoysia Sod only while the notes point to different areas include both El Toro Zoysia Sod and Zeon Zoysia Sod. Sheets LP113-114 are vice versa with El Toro Zoysia in Legend and Notes Point to Zeon Zoysia. | All Zoysia Sod should be Zeon. |
| 12 | Rock is prevalent at this project. Will the VA provide an allowance quantity or provisions to pay for rock as a classified excavation? | Offerors are toinclude the cost of removing up to 2,000 cubic yards (CY) of rock in their total proposal price. Any rock removal exceeding 2,000 CY will be treated as a differing site condition. |
| 13 | Solicitation Document L.10 (Instructions to Bidders) Evaluation Factor 3 – Technical references a Statement of Work. We do not see that this document was provided. Please provide. | The Statement of Work is located in Section C of the solicitation. |
| 14 | Can CAD files be provided to assist with our takeoff? Waivers can be signed if this allows the VA to provide. | The design AutoCAD files are not available to bidders. Bidders shall rely on the information provided in the Plans, Specifications, and other provided bid documents to determine their own takeoffs. |
| 15 | Columbarium Drawings Example CI702 Sections 1 and 2 call for the “Base” stone to be Alabama Stone Silver Shadow Vein Cut Limestone. Spec Section 04 40 10 Cut Stone 1.2.A.2 Calls for the “Base” Stone to be Granite. Please clarify. | Granite note is a typo. All base stone to be Alabama Silver Shadow Vein Cut Limestone. |
| 16 | Note 4 on sheet CI702 calls for “Free Standing Columbarium Mockup”. Can a rough sketch of required Mockup be provided? | Mockup area shown on Detail 2 on Sheet CI702 (Sheet 122 of 163). |
| 17 | A segmented retaining wall is indicated on sheet CS106 and in Detail 10 on CS503. Are specs available for this wall? | Specs / stamped shop drawings to be provided by manufacturer or GC as approved by NCA. |
| 18 | Crypt Details on Sheet CS501 and Sheet CS502 call for geotextile between subgrade and drainage stone. Please verify the type of geotextile (woven / nonwoven / properties / etc…) required. | Provide geotextile per Specification 33 41 13 paragraph 2.1.D with following modification: Provide nonwoven fabric. |
| 19 | Detail 3 on Sheet CS503 Typical Pavement Section calls for geotextile fabric. Please verify the type of geotextile (woven / nonwoven / properties / etc…) required. | Geotextile fabric for asphalt paving shall be needled Non-Woven polypropylene fibers with the following properties as noted in Specification Section 32 12 16.2.2.A : |
1. Grab Tensile Strength (ASTM D4632) ≥ 55 kg (120 lbs.).
2. Mullen Burst Strength (ASTM D3786) ≥ 1550 kPa (225 psi).
3. Flow Rate (ASTM D4491) ≥ 360 l/min/0.09 sq. m (95 gal/min/sq. ft.).
4. UV Resistance after 500 hours (ASTM D4355) ≥ 70 percent.
5. Heat-set or heat-calendared fabrics are not acceptable.
| 20 | Detail 8 on Sheet CS503 Gravel Access drive calls for geotextile fabric. Please verify the type of geotextile (woven / nonwoven / properties / etc…) required. | Provide geotextile fabric per Specification 32 12 16 paragraph 2.2 |
| 21 | Will the VA allow for additional area to be disturbed to stockpile / process topsoil, for staging and laydown area? | Additional area may be utilized with prior approval from NCA. SWPPP and other permitting requirements for additional areas are the responsibility of the GC at no additional cost to the Government. |
| 22 | Is there a designated disposal area on the cemetery property? If so, can the government show us where and specify what materials may be disposed of onsite. | No existing disposal area on the property. GC may propose areas for approval of VA at no additional cost to the Government. |
| i. Soils | GC may propose areas for approval of VA at no additional cost to the Government. | |
| ii. Concrete | No | |
| iii. Asphalt | No | |
| iv. Timber / Mulch | No | |
| v. Items considered Clean Fill | GC may propose areas for approval of VA at no additional cost to the Government. | |
| 23 | Blank | |
| 24 | Shall all general fill be imported for this project, or can onsite soils be used that meet specifications? | Soils meeting specifications may be used. |
| 25 | Section 31 20 00 Paragraph 2.2 “General Fills for Burial Sections”: Will general fill gradation for the burial sections be limited to maximum particle size of ?”? Is there a possibility of increasing this gradation to be more representative of in situ materials? | There shall be no modifications to the gradation of the General Fill material. As defined in Specification 31 20 00, Section 2.2.B – the soil gradation and general fill characteristics shall be “…free of rock or gravel larger than 3/4-inch in any dimension, debris, waste, frozen materials, vegetation, and other deleterious matter. Material approved from on site or off-site sources having a minimum dry density of 110 pcf, a maximum Plasticity Index of 15, and a maximum Liquid Limit of 40.” |
| 26 | Section 31 20 00 Paragraph 1.3 “Unsuitable Materials”: Specifications for fill material state maximum particle size of 3” for suitable fill. Geotech report recommends structural fill maximum particle size up to 6” (4” for trench/utility backfill). Please confirm which maximum particle size will be acceptable for this project. | Specification to be followed, Geotechnical report provided for informational purposes only. Maximum particle size shall be smaller than 3-inches. Unsuitable Fill Material contains “…clods of clay and stones larger than 3 inches…” as defined in Specification 31 20 00 Section 1.3.A.1. |
| 27 | Section 31 20 00 Paragraph 1.3 “Unsuitable Materials”: Specifications call out max liquid limit of 40 and plasticity index of 15. In situ soils are representative of soils that exceed these parameters. Geotech report specifies max liquid limit of 45 and plasticity index of 25 for structural fills. Recommend following geotechnical report parameters. Please confirm. | Specification to be followed, Geotechnical report provided for informational purposes only. Fill materials with a Liquid Limit exceeding 40 and a Plasticity Index exceeding 15 shall be considered “Unsuitable” material per specification section 31 20 00.1.3.A.1 |
28 Section 31 20 00 Paragraph 1.3 “Unsuitable Materials”: Specifications call out minimum dry density of 110 pcf. Geotech reports states 105 pcf. Please confirm 105 pcf is acceptable. Specification to be followed, Geotechnical report provided for informational purposes only. Minimum dry density shall be 110 pcf. General Fill material as defined in specification section 2.2.B & .C for both inside and outside burial sections shall have”… a minimum dry density of 110 pcf, a maximum Plasticity Index of 15, and a maximum Liquid Limit of 40.”
| 29 | Is there any laboratory testing information available for onsite topsoil specifically organic content? | All available information provided. |
| 30 | Topsoil Requirements: |
Section 31 20 00 Paragraph 3.1: This section states materials larges than 2” to be removed from existing topsoil Section 32 90 00 Paragraph 2.5: This section states maximum topsoil gradation of 1” Civil Drawings: Call out topsoil to be free of rock or gravel larger than 0.3”
| Please confirm which topsoil specification will be required for this project | Section 32 90 00 to be used. Topsoil to be free of rocks and debris larger than 1" in any dimension. | |||
| 31 | Will shot rock and/or breaker rock be an acceptable fill material in deeper fills, assuming adequate clearance from proposed subgrades? | Gravel is acceptable for use as fill material, provided it complies with one of the following: |
Specification Section 31 20 00.2.2.B – “General Fills for Burial Sections: Material in compliance with ASTM D2487 Soil Classification Groups GW, GP, GM, SW, SP, SM, SC, and ML, or any combination of these groups; free of rock or gravel larger than 3/4-inch in any dimension, debris, waste, frozen materials, vegetation, and other deleterious matter. Material approved from on site or off-site sources having a minimum dry density of 110 pcf, a maximum Plasticity Index of 15, and a maximum Liquid Limit of 40.”
Or Specification Section 31 20 00.2.2.C – “General Fills outside of Burial Sections: Material in compliance with ASTM D2487 Soil Classification Groups GW, GP, GM, SW, SP, SM, SC, and ML, or any combination of these groups; free of rock or gravel larger than 3 inches in any dimension, debris, waste, frozen materials, vegetation, and other deleterious matter. Material approved from on site or off-site sources having a minimum dry density of 110 pcf, a maximum Plasticity Index of 15, and a maximum Liquid Limit of 40.”
32 Section 33 40 00 Paragraph 3.13 Please specify what if any testing will be required for the proposed gravity storm sewer system Please confirm if 10% of underdrain piping in burial sections is to be inspected by CCTV Testing of the gravity storm sewer shall comply with Specification Section 33 40 00.3.13.C.5:
1. Air testing for:
Concrete pipe per ASTM C924, Plastic pipe per ASTM F1417, All Other pipe per ASTM C828 or ASTM C924
2. Joints shall confirm with ASTM C1103
3. Exfiltration testing per ASTM F2487
4. Defection testing per ASTM D2412
Confirmed, “A minimum of 10% of underdrain piping in burial sections to be inspected with CCTV/Recording.” Per section 33 40 00.3.13.C.8
| 33 | Section 33 41 14 Paragraph 2.1 | |||
| Filter fabric specs appear to meet parameters of non-woven 160N fabric. Please confirm fabric is to be a non-woven and not a woven fabric | Filter Fabric is to be “Non-Woven” material. | |||
| 34 | Will water be provided to contractor for the purpose of dust control, cleaning, moisture conditioning, etc.? If so, will this be at the contractor’s or the government’s expense? | Contractor can draw water from the Alabama National Cemetery irrigation pond. Irrigation has priority over construction in the event of a drought. Contractor is responsible for all equipment to fill water trucks. | ||
| 35 | Spec Section 03 48 21 3.7.14 Backfill Between Crypts: Please verify that cut / crushed angular (non-rounded) aggregate can only be used if the required rounded pea gravel costs is no more that 4 times the costs of the angular. | Correct, Per Specification 03 48 21.3.7.F.1.a - Backfill between the crypts where gap is less than 50mm (2-inches) shall be as follows: 1. Install approved (rounded) gravel that meets the specified gradation into gaps between crypts leaving no voids “…At RE/COR’s discretion, a non-rounded stone may be considered as a substitute for the rounded stone. The RE/COR may accept the (non-rounded) stone only following demonstration, through an approved submittal process, that rounded stone is not available for less than 4 times the cost of a cut/crushed angular (non-rounded) aggregate substitute...” | ||
| 36 | Section B.1 of the solicitation includes CLIN pricing for six items. Additionally the bid documents include a Price Proposal Breakdown. Please clarify whether both sections must be completed. If so, should the Price Proposal Breakdown be submitted as one for each of the six CLIN items, or as a single breakdown for the grand total? | Both the Price Schedule and Price Proposal Breakdown must be completed. The Price Proposal Breakdown shall be completed for the grand total. | ||
| 37 | Sheet CG108 shows burial section 16 as being part of Bid Option 1, and sheet CG117 shows it being a part of Bid Option 3. | |||
| The price/cost schedule appears to show this work as part of bid option 3, but we request clarification confirming that Burial Section 16 is part of Bid Option 3. | Sheet CG108 should show Bid Option 3 in the title block as shown in Sheet Index.. | |||
| 38 | Bid Option 3 as shown on CG107/CG108 appears to include Burial section 16 as well as a large section of asphalt paving, curb, gravel road, and storm drainage. The price/cost schedule provided only has line items for pre-cast crypt installation and pre-cast crypt materials. Please confirm if the additional asphalt paving, curb, gravel road, and storm drainage shown on CG107/CG108 needs to be included as part of Bid Option 3 or if this work should be included in the base bid. | The portions asphalt paving, curb, gravel road, and storm drainage on sheet CG107 and CG108 that are not hatched with “Work to be Completed in Base Bid” should be accounted for in Bid Option 3. | ||
| 39 | During our review of the current drawing set, we noted that sheet CT201-ROADWAY A PLAN & PROFILES - BASE BID is missing. | |||
| Please confirm whether sheet CT201 was intentionally deleted from the set or if it was an error. | Sheet CT201 added to documents. | |||
| 40 | Due to the project’s size and scope, accurate cut/fill verification is critical. | |||
| Please provide the latest Civil CAD files (including surfaces and grading models) to allow precise earthwork takeoffs. | The design AutoCAD files are not available to bidders. Bidders shall rely on the information provided in the Plans, Specifications, and other provided bid documents to determine their own takeoffs. | |||
| 41 | Site Security and Vehicle Access Clarification |
Specification Section 01 00 02 1.4.F.1 (Motor Vehicle Restrictions) indicates that vehicle authorization requests are required for any vehicle entering the site, to be submitted 24 hours in advance, and that access may be limited to material pickup and delivery.
Please clarify the following:
1. Will this project site operate as a secured facility requiring controlled access for all contractor, subcontractor, supplier, and delivery vehicles?
2. Will construction personnel vehicles require advance authorization for daily site access, or does this restriction apply only to deliveries?
3. Are there designated staging, parking, or laydown areas available for contractor use without prior authorization?
| 4. Please confirm whether these access requirements are expected to remain in place throughout the duration of construction. | 1) Controlled access may be limited to providing gates for areas inside construction fencing as required by drawings. 2). Authorization requests may be limited to deliveries and pickups. NCA reserves the right to require authorization for all vehicles if needed. 3) Designated staging, parking, laydown areas may be proposed to NCA for prior authorization based on specific activities and location. 4) Confirmed | ||
| 42 | Specification Section 01 00 02- 1.18.L references providing utilities and network infrastructure necessary to support a habitable temporary structure, including power, water, sanitary connections, and network receptacles. |
Please clarify:
1. Will existing electrical power, potable water, sanitary connections, and network/internet service be available for contractor use?
2. If available, please provide exact locations, capacities, and connection requirements.
3. If network/internet service is anticipated, please confirm whether the Government will provide an active connection or if the Contractor is responsible for establishing new service.
| 4. If utilities are not available, should bidders include costs for new extensions or temporary systems? | 1) Potable water, sanitary and network/internet is the responsibility of the contractor. Electric will be made available but is the contractors responsibility to propose connection. There is power along the existing access road to Shoal Creek. Capacity unknown. 2) Capacity will need to meet the needs for trailers and equipment outlined in the specifications. 3) Contractor responsible for establishing new service. 4) Bidders should include cost necessary to provide utilities per spec 01 00 02, 1.18. | ||
| 43 | Specification Section 01 00 02-1.18 L.10 references providing a “suitable security system.” |
Please clarify:
1. What constitutes a “suitable security system” for this project?
2. Are commercially available systems (e.g., Ring or equivalent camera-based monitoring systems) acceptable?
3. Are there specific VA requirements for monitoring, recording duration, access control, third-party monitoring, or integration with existing VA systems?
| Security system requirements may vary significantly in cost depending on the level of monitoring and integration required. Clarification will assist bidders in accurately pricing this requirement. | Per spec, it needs to include alarm monitoring service. System must alert someone or a service if there is unauthorized entry. | ||
| 44 | Specification Section 01 00 02-1.18.M.6 outlines minimum requirements for the Photocopier/Printer/Scanner/Fax Machine, including network capability/connectivity. |
On Prior NCA Cemetery Projects, equipment meeting these specification requirements has at times not been compatible with VA IT/network protocols, resulting in the Government not utilizing the provided equipment.
Please clarify:
1. Is there a specific make and model that is preferred or approved by the VA for compatibility with VA network systems?
2. Are there specific driver or IT compatibility requirements bidders must comply with?
| 3. Will VA IT support install drivers for any equipment meeting the specification requirements, or are there pre-approved manufacturer standards that must be followed? | Photocopier/Printer/Scanner/Fax Machine not required. Wi-Fi connection or wired connection required. No other IT requirements required for RE/COR office. | ||
| 45 | Specification Section 01 00 02-32.1.18 M.8 requires provision of internet, data, and voice equipment/connections, including two dedicated voice lines with local area codes. |
Please clarify:
1. Are dedicated voice telephone lines still required for this project, or will cellular or VoIP-based communication methods be acceptable?
| 2. Are there any specific security or network requirements associated with these lines? | No telephones required. Wi-Fi___33 connection or wired connection required. No other IT requirements required for RE/COR office. | ||
| 46 | The plans indicate that a wheel wash or tire bath system will be required. Many commercially available wheel wash systems require 480V, 3-phase electrical service for proper operation. | ||
| Please confirm whether 480V, 3-phase power will be available on-site for contractor use. Please confirm whether this power is readily available as-is, or if step-up and/or step-down transformers will be required to produce it. Please also confirm acceptable location(s) for electrical tie-in to support this equipment. | Wheel wash runoff water could be treated in a passive manner. Contractor responsible for means and methods. Contractor to assume 3 phase power not available at location. See Alabama Handbook for Erosion Control, Sediment Control and Stormwater Management on Construction Sites and Urban Areas which identifies when active wheel washes are required. | ||
| 47 | Specification Section 31 20 00.4, Paragraph 1.6.C requires the Contractor to furnish resumes for personnel involved in the project, including the Project Manager, Superintendent, and onsite Engineer, noting that the Project Manager and Superintendent should have at least three years of experience on similar projects. |
Additionally, Form 6293 (Prime Contractor Information) includes staffing designations for Project Manager, Quality Control Manager (QCM), and Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO).
Please clarify the following:
1. Is the Project Manager required to be onsite full-time, or may this role be performed offsite with periodic site visits?
2. May any of the following roles be combined under one individual: Project Manager, Superintendent, onsite Engineer, SSHO, and QCM?
If all roles cannot be combined, what combinations are acceptable to the Government (for example, Superintendent/QCM, Superintendent/SSHO, Engineer/QCM, etc.)?
3. Given the project is classified as a minor construction project, please confirm the minimum require The specification section referenced in this RFI - 31 20 00 - is for Earth Moving. Submittals for Earth Moving subcontractor must meet these requirements. Project Manager does not need to be onsite full time if periodic site visits provided.
See RFI 77 Answer and added specification sections 01 35 26 and 01 45 00.
| 48 | Please clarify whether dewatering is anticipated for burial excavations, utilities, or bridge foundations and identify expected groundwater elevations where available | Contractor should be prepared to provide dewatering in all excavations. As noted in the Geotechnical Report prepared by ECS - Variations in the long-term water table may occur as a result of changes in precipitation, evaporation, surface water runoff, construction activities, and other factors. |
| 49 | Please confirm whether earthwork is expected to balance onsite or provide estimated cut and fill quantities for the project. | Bidders shall rely on the information provided in the Plans, Specifications, and other provided bid documents to determine their own takeoffs. |
| 50 | Please identify the exact limits of Section 4 and Section 10 required for early turnover by drawing reference or stationing and clarify the acceptance criteria required to achieve turnover, including punch list status, irrigation acceptance, and landscape establishment. | All improvements associated with Sections 4 & 10 required. See plans for limits of construction for each Section. Requirements for turnover to include all required by specifications as if this was a standalone project, exception may include adjustments for landscape / turf establishment for early turnover. |
| 51 | Please define the scope and locations of service seals replacement, including whether this refers to utility penetrations, manholes, building service entries, or other infrastructure, and identify where this work is shown on the drawings. | Service Seals - refers to Bronze Service Emblem Plaques shown on sheet CI520 (Sheet 120 of 163). No utilities are impacted. |
| 52 | Please clarify the extent of Administration Building and Maintenance Building IT Improvements, including identification of specific systems, equipment, and work activities included such as cabling, network hardware, racks, servers, security, or communications. | Refer to drawings ET001, ET100, ET101, ET102, and T-501, along with specification sections 270500, 270526, 270800, 171000, and 271100, for extent to Administration Building and Maintenance Building IT Improvements. |
| 53 | Please confirm whether Pre-Placed Burial Crypt installation for Bid Option 3 is excluded from the Bid Option lump sum CLIN and is to be priced exclusively under the listed EA quantity of 1,926 crypts. | CLIN 0006 is exclusively for the supply and delivery costs of the pre-placed crypts to the job site. This is broken down by a unit price of "Each" or "EA" with a total quantity required of 1,926. The amount specified in CLIN 0006 shall not be duplicated in CLIN 0005. |
CLIN 0005 Description: "Preplaced Crypt Installation per Construction Drawings and Specifications" (i.e., this CLIN covers all installation charges)
CLIN 0006 Description: 1,926 EA—Preplaced Crypts (supply and delivery to site only)
Therefore, ensure that the supply and delivery costs of the pre-placed crypts are included in CLIN 0006, and all installation charges are included in CLIN 0005 without any duplication of costs.
54 Please confirm whether Pre-Placed Burial Crypt installation is excluded from CLIN 0001 and is to be priced exclusively under CLIN 0002 (EA quantity), as CLIN 0001 includes grave site expansion language that appears to overlap with CLIN 0002. CLIN 0002 is exclusively for the supply and delivery costs of the pre-placed crypts to the job site. This is broken down by a unit price of "Each" or "EA" with a total quantity required of 6,874. The amount specified in CLIN 0002 shall not be duplicated in CLIN 0001.
CLIN 0001 Description: "Installation of all work shown on the plans and described in the specifications including but not limited to: Improvements include gravesite expansion (pre-placed crypts, in-ground cremains sites, columbarium niches), construction of columbarium walls, administration building & maintenance building IT improvements, service seals replacement, roads, bridge, signage, site furnishings, landscaping, and irrigation system." (i.e., this CLIN covers all installation charges)
CLIN 0002 Description: 6,874 EA—Preplaced Crypts (supply and delivery to site only)
Therefore, ensure that the supply and delivery costs of the pre-placed crypts are included in CLIN 0002, and all installation charges are included in CLIN 0001 without any duplication of costs.
| 55 | Construction Waste Management requires certain materials to be segregated and documented to verify landfill diversion. Can wood, metal, cardboard, and plastic be mingled together on site and separated at the recycling facility, or will individual debris containers be required at the project site? | Individual debris containers not required. | ||
| 56 | ERROR:#VALUE! | Refer to drawings ET001, ET100, ET101, ET102, and T-501, along with specification sections 270500, 270526, 270800, 171000, and 271100, for extent to Administration Building and Maintenance Building IT Improvements. | ||
| 57 | ERROR:#VALUE! | Service Seals - refers to Bronze Service Emblem Plaques shown on sheet CI520 (Sheet 120 of 163). No utilities are impacted. | ||
| 58 | The specifications include Section 06 10 00 Rough Carpentry. Please identify any permanent rough carpentry work shown on the contract drawings. Please confirm whether this section applies only to temporary construction activities or includes permanent installed work. | Spec 06 10 00 is not included in the specifications and is not applicable to this project. | ||
| 59 | The specifications include Section 04 20 00 Unit Masonry. Please identify where unit masonry is required on the contract drawings and confirm the specific location where this work applies. If unit masonry is not shown on the contract drawings, please confirm that Section 04 20 00 is not applicable to this project. | Spec 04 20 00 is not included in the specifications and is not applicable to this project. | ||
| 60 | The specifications include Section 09 91 00 Painting. Please identify where painting is required on the contract drawings and the applicable specification section governing this work. If painting is not shown on the contract drawings, please confirm that Section 09 91 00 is not applicable to this project. | Spec 09 91 00 is not included in the specifications and is not applicable to this project. | ||
| 61 | The specifications include Section 08 80 00 Glazing. Please identify where glazing is required on the contract drawings. If glazing is not shown on the contract drawings, please confirm that Section 08 80 00 is not applicable to this project. | Spec 08 80 00 is not included in the specifications and is not applicable to this project. | ||
| 62 | Please identify the specific specification section(s) and drawing references that define the GNSS and Geodata requirements for this project, including required deliverables and timing. Please confirm whether these requirements are limited to final as built documentation or include additional requirements. | Sheet ET100 identifies potential base station locations, radio study to determine final location. Geo specific specifications are found in 118300 and 118302. GIS data to be provided at end of project and include all elements required in the specifications. | ||
| 63 | For Bid Option 4, please identify the contract drawing sheet(s) and specification section(s) that define the complete scope of work associated with the irrigation pump replacement. Please confirm whether any specification sections govern this work beyond what is shown on the contract drawings. If no additional specification sections apply, please confirm the scope is limited strictly to the items explicitly shown on the contract drawings. | Pump replacement is Option #2, CLIN 0004. Scope includes contract drawings (Sheets LI105 & LI100) and specification 32 82 00 (including related work). | ||
| 64 | The contract specifications do not include Division 26 Electrical. Please confirm whether any electrical work is required beyond what is explicitly shown on the contract drawings and identify the governing specification section(s), if any. If no electrical specification sections apply, please confirm that electrical work is limited strictly to the items explicitly shown on the contract drawings. | Contract specifications include Division 26 specifications, including sections 260511, 260519, 260526, 260533, 262416, and 262726. | ||
| 65 | Please clarify responsibility for retesting and associated restoration of utility, concrete, or other required testing does not meet acceptance criteria on initial testing | All testing and retesting, and associated costs, the responsibility of the contractor. | ||
| 66 | Please confirm whether GNSS and Geodata requirements are limited to final as-built documentation or require active data collection during construction. | Active data collection not required. | ||
| 67 | Please clarify whether the irrigation pump replacement included in Bid Option 3 includes pump only or also includes electrical, controls, piping modifications, and commissioning. | Pump replacement is Option #2, CLIN 0004. Scope includes contract drawings (Sheets LI105 & LI100) and specification 32 82 00 (including related work). | ||
| 68 | The General Contractor shall provide unarmed guards at the project site when theft or vandalism warrants. | |||
| Has the Project site experienced theft or vandalism in the past? | No known incidents. | |||
| 69 | Please provide average number of daily interments as these may impact | |||
| construction production. | Current averages are approximately 4 per day. This will vary on specific days. | |||
| 70 | Please provide anticipated date of NTP issuance as the bid solicitation requires an early turnover of Sections 4 and 10 no later than May 1, 2028. | NTP is anticipated to be issued no later than 10/30/2026 | ||
| 71 | Industry practice generally requires foremen and superintendents to hold OSHA 30 certification, while crew members under their supervision are typically expected to have OSHA 10. Please confirm that this is acceptable. | Confirmed, OSHA 30 limited to Formen, Supervisors and Competent persons. All workers required to have OSHA 10. | ||
| 72 | Prior to commencing work, general contractor shall provide proof that an OSHA certified “competent person” (CP) (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2) will maintain a presence at the work site whenever the general or subcontractors are present. | |||
| OSHA does not certify anyone as a “competent person”. Please confirm an OSHA 30 is acceptable. | OSHA 30 acceptable. Spec 01 35 26 and 01 45 00 added to specifications, see for additional detail on personnel requirements. | |||
| 73 | Please confirm if the DVA plans on retaining their own Testing Laboratory as this may impact scheduling of work/production | NCA does not anticipate obtaining own testing but reserves the right to provide additional testing if needed. | ||
| 74 | On Drawing CI502 Note 1 Granite Section Markers it references the Section numbers are found on Sheet CI100, there is no Drawing labeled CI100 to refer to | Note should refer to CI101 for Section numbering. | ||
| 75 | Drawings call for 8 foot tall Black Vinyl Fence-Drawing CS 502 Note 12 | |||
| Standard fencing is 6 foot for standard privacy and 7 foot for specialized high security or industrial purposes Is the 8 Foot Fence requirement mandatory or can 6 foot or 7 foot be used. | Fence shall be 8 feet tall. | |||
| 76 | Please confirm whether this project qualifies for exemption from Alabama state and local sales and use taxes on construction materials, equipment rentals, and supplies purchased for incorporation into the work, and if not exempt, please confirm the tax rate bidders should assume for pricing purposes, including whether a combined rate of approximately 10% (4% State of Alabama, 1% Shelby County, and 5% City of Montevallo) is applicable at the project site. | See FAR Clause 52.229-3 which is incorporated by reference into the solicitation. | ||
| 77 | Upon review of the Project Specifications, there is no requirement for a dedicated Quality Control Manager on site. Please confirm required on site staffing | This project requires a dedicated Project Manager, Site Superintendent, Safety Officer, and Quality Control Manager. No position can be dual-hatted. See added Specification Sections 01 35 26 and 01 45 00. | ||
| 78 | Vehicle authorization requests shall be required for any vehicle entering the site and such requests shall be submitted 24 hours before the date and time of access. Access shall be restricted to picking up and dropping off materials and supplies. Please confirm this is applicable. If so, who would the requests be directed to? | Authorization requests may be limited to deliveries and pickups. NCA reserves the right to require authorization for all vehicles if needed. Requests to be provided to COR or designated representative. | ||
| 79 | Will privacy screens be required on the temporary fence? If so, what colors are acceptable. | Yes, the temporary construction safety fence shall have privacy screen as defined in Note 1 in Detail SAF/GC502 - “…the construction fence shall be provided with privacy screening materials to produce a visual barrier to the public from the adjoining cemetery into the contractor work areas. The visual barrier shall accommodate wind loading without causing the fence to bend or fall over.” |
Screen Color shall be consistent along the entire run of fence, no change of colors. Color shall be “Black” or “Dark Green”
| 80 | Will any other construction or maintenance contracts be implemented during the expansion project's completion timeline? | None known at this time. | ||
| 81 | As stated in General Conditions FAR Clause 52.236-7 | |||
| Has the agency issuing the permit already been presented with the construction plans? | USFWS, USACE (wetlands) & FEMA have been presented plans for all permanent impacts. No other agency has reviewed the plans. | |||
| 82 | Does the Surveyor or Engineer need to be licensed in the same state where the project is located? | Surveyor or Engineer to be licensed in Alabama, where project is located. | ||
| 83 | Under Testing Laboratory Services 1.4 it requires that the Testing Lab be accredited by the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program. Upon researching the NVLAP Accredited database, no Testing Laboratories in the region carry the required certification. Please confirm this accreditation requirement can be waived. | AASHTO Association or other nationally recognized accredited testing facility may be utilized. Contractor to propose testing laboratory for NCA approval. | ||
| 84 | Please confirm the required on site staffing positions for this project. If a Quality Control Manager is required may the Superintendent or QC Manager also serve as the Site Safety Office provided they meet the requirements, Also Please confirm whether the Superintendent and QC Manager are required to be full time on site during construction activities | No positions can be dual hatted. Site Superintendent, Quality Control Manager, and SSHO must be on site at all times. | ||
| 85 | Evaluation Factor 2 – says to have All PPQ must complete when submitted – according to FAR 15.306(e)(4) – these are not typically returned to Offeror complete for submission, but rather submitted directly to CO – please confirm, the Offeror is to request the completed PPQ from Evaluator to submit vs. being submitted directly to CO. | See Section L.10.2 Proposal Submission Instructions regarding PPQ submission. | ||
| 86 | The bridge is anticipated to be constructed at the beginning of the project and subsequently utilized by the Contractor throughout the duration of construction activities. | |||
| The bridge is anticipated to be constructed at the beginning of the project and subsequently utilized by the Contractor throughout the duration of construction activities.Ð'dPlease clarify what inspections, certifications, and formal acceptance procedures will be required upon completion of bridge construction prior to use. Specifically, confirm whether third-party inspection, load certification, or agency approval will be required before the bridge may be placed into service.Ð'dAdditionally, please clarify what requirements will apply at the conclusion of the project during final inspection. Will the Contractor be responsible for any restoration, resurfacing, repaving, or seal coating necessary to address deficiencies resulting from normal construction-related wear and tear? Please confirm the expected final condition and acceptance criteria for the bridge at project closeout. | The structure will be required to meet the manufacture's specifications. An inventory inspection will be required to meet FHWA and ALDOT requirements. Contractor responsible for any restoration, resurfacing, repaving or coating to provide NCA new bridge free of damage. | |||
| 87 | The Contractor’s anticipated means and methods for bridge installation, in accordance with the drawings, require the use of four (4) timber shore posts. Based on the current design, these posts would be located within the creek channel. |
Installation of the shore posts will require excavation of approximately four (4) 5-foot by 5-foot areas within the creek bed to accommodate timber bearing pad placement.
| Please confirm what environmental protection measures, permitting requirements, erosion and sediment control measures, or agency coordination will be required for excavation within the creek. Specifically, please clarify whether approvals or coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and/or applicable State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will be required. Additionally, please confirm whether temporary in-water work restrictions, dewatering requirements, or restoration criteria will apply to this operation. | Construction is part of the GC's means and methods. All permitting associated with temporary impacts are the responsibility of the GC. | |||
| 88 | The contract drawings and specifications indicate that the precast crypt (PPC) dimensions differ from those utilized on prior VA projects. Specifically, the documents call for a 7'-2" dimension rather than the typical 7'-6" standard configuration. Ð'dMultiple Subcontractors have communicated that their production forms are configured for the standard VA crypt size. A change to the nominal dimensions would require fabrication of new forms. Procurement of new forms carries both significant cost and associated fabrication lead time, which could materially impact the project schedule and overall pricing.Ð'dFor reference, we have attached drawings of the standard PPC forms currently used on prior VA projects to assist in evaluating this issue.Ð'dPlease confirm whether the revised 7'-2" dimension is intentional. If so, please advise whether the Government has considered the schedule and cost implications associated with new form fabrication. | Crypts to be standard configuration of 7'-6", not the 7'-2" listed in details. Plots to be 7'-8" to match current plots in cemetery. | ||
| 89 | The note on the Site Segmental Retaining Wall drawings states: |
“This section is for the conceptual layout of the site segmental retaining wall. The wall, its components, excavations, and drainage shall be designed by a Professional Engineer registered in the State of Alabama. See civil drawings for site wall locations.”
| Beyond the general design loads indicated on Sheet S-001, please confirm whether there are any additional performance, design, or acceptance requirements that the delegated retaining wall engineer must satisfy (e.g., geotechnical criteria, drainage performance standards, deflection limits, durability requirements, or other project-specific criteria) | No additional requirements. | ||
| 90 | Plan sheet CS501 calls out “AREA BETWEEN CRYPTS SHALL BE FILLED AND COMPACTED WITH APPROVED 3/8” STONE (3/8” MAX WITH 0% PASSING #10) (NO SAND ALLOWED)”. This directly conflicts with 03 48 21 para 3.7.F. | ||
| a. | Which should be followed, the plan detail or the specification? | ||
| b. | The plan detail states “stone”. Is the use of angular (non-rounded) stone acceptable? | As noted in Specification 03 48 21, Section 3.7.F, the referenced stone infill is required only when the space between adjacent crypt units is less than or equal to 2 inches. |
The details shown on Sheet CS501 indicate a proposed 6-inch space between crypts; therefore, the stone infill identified in Specification 03 48 21.3.7.F is not required for the condition shown in the current detail
| 91 | Based upon the boring logs, very little material onsite will meet “General Fills” as defined in paragraphs 2.2.B and 2.2.C. a) Please clarify if “General Fills” must be imported? b) Is there a location onsite to dispose of excess excavated materials that are not “General Fills”? c) The “Earthwork Operations” section of the Geotechnical Report has much looser requirements for fill material than 31 20 00. Please clarify which is to be utilized. d) The Geotechnical Report essentially allows for a mass grading operation onsite, whereas if specification 31 20 00 is followed, most excavated material will need to be replaced with imported material. This is a significant cost impact. Please advise. | Specification to be followed, Geotechnical report provided for informational purposes only. | ||
| 92 | How is rock excavation to be handled on this project? If rock excavation is necessary, will that be a differing site condition? | |||
| The Geotechnical Report included this recommendation, but I am not locating anything regarding this within the specification: “Provisions for rock removal, such as ripping with large equipment with rock teeth, should be included in the project documents.” Please advise? | See RFI 12 Answer | |||
| 93 | Detail 10/CS503 is for “SITE SEGMENTAL RETAINING WALL”. Where is this retaining wall located? | There are two Keynote #10's on CS103. The Keynote #10 to the right (near east side of bridge) should be labeled Keynote #17, Segmental Wall. These have corrected. See amended drawings. | ||
| 94 | Specifications are calling for Trimble R2 rover units. These units are not being produced anymore and are very hard to find. Will you specify another rover unit (R12i)? | Spec updated to change from Trimble R2 GNSS Receiver to Trimble R580 GNSS Receiver. | ||
| 95 | Contractor is not locating plan sheet CT201 (page 66). Please advise? | Sheet 66 added to documents. | ||
| 96 | Given the environmental sensitivity of construction activities in and around Shoal Creek, please confirm whether the Government has completed the applicable NEPA documentation for this project, including any associated environmental assessments, findings (e.g., FONSI), permitting constraints, baseline studies, or special conditions that may affect SWPPP preparation, sequencing, or construction means and methods. If available, please provide copies of the applicable NEPA documentation and any supporting environmental reports for bidder review. | NEPA was conducted under prior project or land acquisition. NEPA documents not available. | ||
| 97 | Spec Requirement 01 00 02 – 32: 1.1: G Training: All employees of general contractor or subcontractors shall, at the minimum, have successfully completed the 30-hour OSHA certified construction Safety course and/or other relevant competency training, as determined by VA CP. Please verify 30-hour OSHA is for all employees not just supervisors. Typically, 10-hour OSHA is required for employees that are not supervisors. | Confirmed, OSHA 30 limited to Formen, Supervisors and Competent persons. All workers required to have OSHA 10. Spec 01 35 26 and 01 45 00 added to specifications, see for additional detail on personnel requirements. | ||
| 98 | Please verify construction traffic will be permitted on the bridge. | Confirmed, damage from traffic will need repaired prior to turn over. | ||
| 99 | Are there any clearing restrictions pertaining to time of the year concerning bats? | No. Studies approved by USFWS. Clearing can occur anytime of the year until 12/12/2030. | ||
| 100 | Elevations on Sheet BD 105 show leveling pads under the wing walls. Can a detail of the required leveling pad be provided? | ERROR:#VALUE! |
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