Amendment 004 Questions and Answers.pdf

Questions and Answers for Veteran Benefits Administration Regional Office (VARO)

Renovations at the George H. Fallon Federal Building Baltimore, MD

Solicitation Number: 47PD0321R0022

1. On hardware sets #24, 25, 26, and 27 it says Existing Hardware to remain but to add Wave Plates. Does this mean, there are existing auto operators, but we are to just add wave plates to existing hardware, or do we provide new operators?

ANSWER: Only door hardware set #25 has a Wave Switch (touchless). The wave symbol is a W with a circle on the floor plans. However, for the demo and new work floor plans, the symbol A with a circle is the actuator symbol (NOT touchless). A gray symbol is existing to remain, dashed is remove, and dark black is new. Door #025023 has a demo symbol (with key note) and a new symbol. Door #16001 shows new actuators. The other doors have gray symbols (existing to remain actuators). (MTFA Architecture response dated 10/31/2021).

2. Which telecom closet will be used to service the voice/data drops for Phase 1 – 2nd floor West? If these cables are run from any of the 2nd floor closets shown on the project drawings, it will put the majority of them beyond the distance limit of 290 feet as set forth by EIA and BICSI standards. They will not pass testing. Please address this situation.

ANSWER: The existing telecommunications closet shall be utilized for termination of the data cabling on 2nd West. The telecommunications closet is located directly south and adjacent to Electrical Room 2009 (Detail 5/E401).

3. The Drawing Index for the base bid lists a Furniture Drawing Set (under separate cover) but we did not receive these drawings. Please provide.

ANSWER: Please see the Furniture Drawings included in Amendment 004.

4. Section 051200 Structural Steel Framing calls for AISC Certified Fabricators and Erectors in paragraph 1.8. The steelwork on this project is limited to Beam Strengthening and Folding Partition Support Framing. Based on past experience, AISC certified contractors typically will not bid projects of this nature. For this reason, we are asking for a waiver of the AISC Certification requirements in order to get subcontractors to bid on this work.

ANSWER: OK for Fabricator's Qualifications. For Erector's Qualifications, in lieu of AISC certified erector, increase the field quality control (051200 section 3.6) as follows:

Currently all welds to be visually inspected - keep Currently only full and partial penetration welds to have Non-Destructive Testing:

Increase to also test 5% of all fillet welds.

**Note, many welds on this project are vertical/overhead, so be sure the welder's qualifications include these positions.

5. Upon review of the RFP, there were no Davis Bacon Wages.

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

6. Is this project US Citizens only or can legal resident Aliens be able to work?

There is a shortage of workers because of unemployment.

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

7. Can you please add the sign-in sheet with the addendum?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

8. Since the demolition work makes noise, should we plan to work off-hours?

ANSWER: Yes, as stated in Division 1 Specifications any work that is deemed disruptive should be completed during off-hours.

9. If the demo work is off-hours, can dumpsters be left at the loading dock and removed by morning?

ANSWER: This will be coordinated with building management once the contract is awarded.

10. If working off-hours, we would have the use of the freight elevator without sharing with employee’s and other workers?

ANSWER: This will be coordinated with building management once the contract is awarded.

11. If working off-hours, would we be able to park outside the upper back lobby parking lot?

ANSWER: This will be coordinated with building management once the contract is awarded.

12. Do all workers have to be vaccinated?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

13. Is there any cost to the contractors for the background checks & fingerprints?

ANSWER: No. There is no cost for background checks and fingerprints.

14. How long will it take to be approved for the background checks?

ANSWER: It can take up to 3 to 6 weeks for the entire process.

15. On the bid sheet, #6-Hazardous Abatement. Other than the columns, is there any other abatement work?

ANSWER: Testing of the walker ducts will be completed by GSA. If hazardous materials are found a change order will be requested.

16. How much time will there be between phases?

ANSWER: The final schedule will be coordinated once the contract has been awarded.

17. As a subcontractor are we allowed to submit individual phase bids by choice or all phases must be bedded by bid date?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

18. Please clarify if there are interstitial floors at each floor of the building?

ANSWER: Each floor is occupied.

19. Please clarify if there are existing conduit sleeves at each floor between 4th and 16th floor?

ANSWER: Conduit sleeves between floors 2 and 16 are not existing. Provide (14) 4-inch conduit penetrations and sleeves through existing floors for telecommunications conduits.

20. Per the site visit, the GC is responsible for removing and storing the existing furniture one each floor. However, the general notes of the project documents state GSA is responsible for salvaging and storage of the existing furniture. Please clarify.

ANSWER: The coordination of storage for existing furniture will be coordinated once the contract has been awarded. Storage is available in the building for any furniture being re-used.

21. The RFP states that a $10 Million dollar bid security is to be provided with the submission. Given the project is separated into 4 phases, would it be possible to bond each phase of construction rather than the entire contact amount?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

22. We hereby request a one-day postponement. Typically, Monday bids result in fewer subcontractor and supplier quotes. We feel a Tuesday bid will result in better overall pricing for GSA. Additionally, we have found that 2PM bids are better than 12noon bids, since they allow for more bids to come in from suppliers on the west coast.

Again, this will result in more pricing.

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment 001

23. The BOD Daikin model is for a floor mounted type per the catalog. Are the units to be supported from beneath by a mounting bracket, or are the units to be mounted directly to the wall?

ANSWER: Refer to detail 1 on sheet M-905. Basis of design is for a factory custom model to fit within the existing enclosure, and is mounted to the wall.

24. What are the internal dimensions of existing cabinets?

ANSWER: The A/E team did not measure the internal dimensions of existing cabinets. The only existing cabinets (existing to remain) are in Break Room #025016 and Conference Room #025009. However, the cabinets and countertops are existing to remain. (MTFA Architecture response dated 10/31/2021).

25. As a cost saving measure, would a factory provided & mounted BACnet Thermostat that meets the sequence of operation and communicates with the BAS (such as Johnson Controls TEC3000) be acceptable in lieu of a Contractor provided ASC?

ANSWER: Refer to specifications and plans for acceptable approach. VE options are not being considered at this time.

26. Coils Anti Corrosion coatings are specified for FCU’s but not for the coils on the VAV boxes. In applications such as this an uncoated coil will typically last for the full useful life of the equipment. The coatings substantially increase unit cost, and only protect from corrosion on the Airside. Since the coating is not required for VAV coils is it a requirement for FCU’s?

ANSWER: Refer to specifications and plans for acceptable approach. VE options are not being considered at this time.

27. Factor 1 Prior Experience and Relevant Projects indicates that, “projects may be submitted for the joint venture as an entity or for an individual member of the joint venture.” Section II.F. Requirements of Joint Venture Offerors, subsection (4) states, “Representations and certifications, financial information, and past performance information must be submitted for each member of the joint venture.” Can you please confirm that project experience (a relevant project) is not required from each member of the joint venture, and that past performance information can be evaluated for each joint venture team member under Factor 2 in the form of performance recognition documents received within the last six (6) years such as awards, award fee determinations, customer letters of commendation, and any other forms of performance recognition, rather than a PPQ for a specific project submitted under Factor 1?

ANSWER: Contractors submitting a proposal under a joint venture must provide a Joint Venture Agreement that may contain representations and certifications, financial information, and past performance information.

For joint ventures, projects may be submitted for the joint venture as an entity or for an individual member of the joint venture. While the Government may consider the prior experience of managers, key personnel or other affiliates playing a significant role in contract performance, the total number of projects submitted is limited. The offeror may submit no more than three (3) projects for the prime contractor team as a whole.

The Offeror must submit a PBS Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ) (included in the solicitation as Attachment 2, completed by the applicable client, for each project included in its proposal for Factor 1, Prior Experience on Relevant Contracts. Past performance recognition documents such as awards, award fee determinations, customer letters of commendation, and any other forms of performance recognition may not be used in lieu of the PPQ.

28. Reference drawings E103, E104, E402 regarding Telecom cabling. There are two (2) Second Floor IDF’s (room 025010, room 025027) and one (1) IRM Computer Room (room 025028) in which it appears that all Second-Floor horizontal cabling will terminate back to. However, based on distances for each section (East & West) and the fact there is a building section in between both East & West, the distances for cabling are greater than the allowable distances for Cat 6A cabling. 90 meters or 295 feet is the allowable distance for Cat 6A cabling. Is there an IDF on the West portion of the building (that might be missing from the drawings) that cables on the West portion can terminate to? Otherwise, the design has a flaw in and may have not taken into account those distances for the Category cabling.

ANSWER: The existing telecommunications closet shall be utilized for termination of the data cabling on 2nd West. The telecommunications closet is located directly south and adjacent to Electrical Room 2009 (Detail 5/E401).

29. There is a bit of conflicting information in regards to the rails sizes for the glass doors that would affect costs. The specification calls out 3-1/2” rails, but 3/A602 shows a 10” bottom rail with 6” top rail and one of the pictures from the site visit looks like the door has 6” rails both at the top and the bottom. Which option does the government want?

ANSWER: For glass doors, provide what is shown in detail 3/A602. Detail shows a 6" top rail and a 10" bottom rail. The 10" bottom rail complies with accessibility requirements. (MTFA Architecture response dated 10/31/2021).

30. Please provide a complete floor plan at each of the existing floors outside of the LOD. These floor plans will be needed to capture costs in our proposal for a complete logistics and phasing plan that properly articulates and quantifies ingress, egress, pedestrian, temp protections, and complete runs between electrical closets.

ANSWER: Sheet A002 - detail 1 shows the entire structural grid for the entire building. Telecom demarcation is in Room G009 (see Sheet A001. Room G009 is at column grid line 16 and F). Ground floor existing telecom room is show on sheet A001 (column grid line 10 and just below column grid line F.) The same existing telecom room is also shown on sheet A101. The first floor telecom closet is shown on A102 (near F and 4). The second east has three new locations (IRM and IRM/IDF and Telecom Closet), which are shown on sheet A103. Second floor west's telecom room (existing) is shown on A104. There is a telecom room and one IDF closet shown on sheet A105 for the 16th floor. (MTFA Architecture response dated 11/02/2021).

31. GC Agreement at IIIB Contractor Responsibilities requires contractors to secure and pay for all necessary permits and governmental fees. Typically we have not filed for permits on federal contracts. Kindly identify the permits that are required.

ANSWER: No special permits are required for this contract. Permits are not required for projects on Federal Properties.

32. Can a large business joint-venture with a small business?

ANSWER: No. Each concern in the Joint Venture must be a small business.

33. What financial documents are required for forming a JV?

ANSWER: Contractors submitting a proposal under a joint venture must provide a Joint Venture Agreement that may contain representations and certifications, financial information, and past performance information.

34. Section 011400, section 1.4.F Temporary Suspension of Work states, “Contractor shall not be entitled to an adjustment of the Contract price or time of performance as a result of this suspension of work.” Please define the number of days that contractor should consider as duration for Temporary Suspension of Work. It would be unreasonable to assume that a contractor can make-up days at its cost if the schedule does not permit.

ANSWER: This would be determined by the Contracting Officer at the given time.

There is not a set number of days for this contract.

35. Drawing Sheet G004, General Project Notes at #27A requires the General Contractor to provide secure off-site storage in addition to on-site storage. For the purpose of estimating bid reasonably, please provide space requirements that the General Contractor should assume to carry in its bid. Kindly provide the type of materials that will be stored off-site and if it would require conditioned space.

ANSWER: Note 27A refers to all the E/R Furniture as listed in detail 1/A-306. This does not need to be conditioned space, but it does need to be in a secured facility.

Please note that there is limited on-site storage space.

36. Drawing Sheet G005, General Demolition Work Floor Plans require General Contractor to investigate concrete slab prior to core drilling. Please confirm if the Government will be able to share as-built drawings for intended scope of work.

ANSWER: Yes, drawings and information will be provided at the time of award.

However the physical inspection is still the responsibility of the contractor.

As-Built drawings can be made available from the A-E post award.

37. Please confirm Drawing Sheet G005, General Demolition Work Floor Plans Keynote 11, 17 & 22 will be performed by Electrical contractor and General Contractor shall coordinate with other trades.

ANSWER: General Contractor to coordinate with other trades for the demolition work. Coordinate with Government and other vendors (ex. telecommunications) as necessary.

38. As per Drawing Sheet G005, General Demolition Work Floor Plans note 18, please identify door hardware items to return to Government.

ANSWER: Door hardware locksets, cores, cylinders, access controls (keypads), cipher lock, etc. Government will have the first right of refusal.

39. Drawing Sheet G005, General New Work Floor Plan Sheet Notes at #15 required to protect/remove/store/clean/reinstall existing window treatments. Please confirm.

ANSWER: Protect all existing window treatment from dust and debris. Existing window treatments must be returned to Government dust/debris free.

40. Please confirm drawing Sheet G005, General New Work Floor Plan Sheet Notes at 25, 26, 27, 28, 30 are to be done by Electrical contractor and General Contractor shall coordinate with other trades.

ANSWER: General Contractor to coordinate work with trades.

41. Drawing Sheet G005, General New Work Floor Plan Sheet Notes at #27 require Contractor to install Government Furnished items. Please provide location and counts.

ANSWER: Refer to the floor plans and enlarged floor plans for keynotes. (One example is keynote 9 on sheet A401).

42. Drawing Sheet G006, General Demolition Work Existing/Relocated (E/R) Furniture Plan Sheet Notes at 3 indicates existing furniture NOT designated to be ETR or E/R shall be excessed by Tenant. At #4 it states the Furniture Vendor is responsible for furniture work shown on A031, A32, A033, A034 & A035. Please confirm that the tagged furniture shown on these sheets shall be excessed (removal and reinstall) by Furniture Vendor hired by Government and the non-tagged furniture items shall be accessed (removal and reinstall) by the Tenant.

ANSWER: For this project, "Tenant" is the Government; Refer to the keynotes on A031-A035 for the scope of work for the Contractor; Tagged furniture (furniture tag symbol is a rectangle with a number in it - like CH-51) is existing furniture to be relocated by the Contractor. Anything not tagged (with a furniture tag symbol) will be excessed by the Government. Refer to sheet A306 for the Existing/Relocated/Reused furniture schedule (by Contractor).

43. Please confirm, per sheet G006, General Existing Relocated (E/R) Furniture Plan Sheet Notes at 3, General Contractor shall be responsible to dispose tagged furniture coming from the ground floor storage room for reuse and NOT actually reused. And per General Demolition Work Existing/Relocated (E/R) Furniture Plan Sheet Notes at #9, any tagged furniture for reuse NOT actually reused shall be excessed (removal & reinstall) by the Tenant and not by the General Contractor.

ANSWER: Tagged furniture (furniture tag symbol is a rectangle with a number in it - example CH-51) is existing furniture to be relocated by the Contractor.

Anything not tagged (with a furniture tag symbol) will be excessed by the Government. The Ground Floor Furniture is currently stored in the Ground Floor VA Storage rooms. Any furniture not used will be excessed by the Government/Tenant.

44. For the purpose of a sample project schedule, should we consider the notice to proceed on November 28, 2021?

ANSWER: No, assume NTP on March 1st, 2022.

45. SF1442 states start work in 1 day after NTP while, GC Agreement document on page 3 para I.C.1 of Period of Performance states 14 days. Please advise.

ANSWER: The contractor shall submit their Performance and Payment bonds and Certificate of Insurance 14 calendar days after the contract award. Upon acceptance of these documents, the Government will issue the Notice to Proceed and work will start one calendar day after the contractor’s receipt of the NTP.

46. Mechanical, Plumbing and Electrical drawings at several places indicate new penetrations through existing walls and concrete slabs. It seems that this work extends to other floors. Such work is not shown on architectural drawings. Please provide photos of existing conditions and details identifying locations where penetrations are required.

ANSWER: There will be architectural work affected by MEP work. The MEP work on the following sheets P-101, P-102, P-103, P-104, P-105, P-106, and P-107 will affect existing ceilings and existing partitions. There will be new core drill(s), which will affect the flooring/slab. Contractor to patch and repair - like materials/paint/etc any existing building component affected by MEP work.

47. Please advise where keynote #21 on drawing A401 is applicable, and provide detail 7/A704 referred to on that key note.

ANSWER: Keynote 21 is not used.

48. Is there a plumbing riser diagram available?

ANSWER: No riser diagram is available.

49. Is there an electrical riser diagram available?

ANSWER: Partial electrical riser diagram will be provided to show feeders from the electrical rooms, extending into the areas of work.

50. Is there a page limit for the technical proposal?

ANSWER: No, there is no page limit.

51. Will we have access to current AutoCAD drawings? (A,MEP,FA,FS & S)

ANSWER: The successful contractor will have access to the AutoCAD files from this design document. AutoCAD files may be requested from the A-E with Government approval post award.

52. REF: Spec 27100 – Structured Cabling: Is Cat 6A cable a requirement or may we use Cat 6 cable? (This was allowed on the 12th floor swing space project).

ANSWER: Cat 6A is required.

53. What existing walls to remain are fire rated?

ANSWER: Jensen Hughes (2021-11-04): The only fire-rated walls in the building are the stair enclosures/exit passageway, elevators, and shafts as shown on the life safety plans.

54. Is Option 1 as shown on A 751 to be in the lump sum bid?

ANSWER: Yes, it should be shown as a separate line on the bid sheet.

55. Bidding on a project with a duration of over 1000 days is a challenge because of the unpredictable nature of material costs. The cost of materials has been increasing at a dramatic rate like never before experienced. For instance, steel stud prices have tripled in a year. Based on this unpredictable unique situation, does the government have a process in place that allows general contractors to be compensated for significant price increases?

ANSWER: This is a firm fixed price contract. The contractor will need to bid accordingly to their prediction for the market.

56. Is delegated design required for non structural components such as glass entrance systems, hangers and supports for electrical equipment, hangers and support for HVAC equipment, and axial fans?

ANSWER: The glass entrance systems does not have to be a delegated design.

57. Is a structural steel contractor required to be AISC certified?

ANSWER: This was previously responded to - Question 3; OK for Fabricator's Qualifications. For Erector's Qualifications, in lieu of AISC certified erector, increase the field quality control (051200 section 3.6) as follows:

Currently all welds to be visually inspected - keep Currently only full and partial penetration welds to have Non-Destructive Testing:

Increase to also test 5% of all fillet welds.

**Note, many welds on this project are vertical/overhead, so be sure the welder's qualifications include these positions.

58. Is NETA testing required?

ANSWER: Yes, please refer to specifications where NETA testing is required.

59. In spec section 051200 3.6-C-1-A, B, C, D is the additional testing a requirement or is it up to the discretion of the inspector to use one or more of the additional testing methods if the inspector sees fit?

ANSWER: The NDT testing in a, b, c, or d in addition to visual inspection is a specification requirement only for full and partial penetration welds. For fillet welds, the additional testing is at the discretion of the testing company. However, also see response to bid RFI #3 that if the erector is not AISC certified, a minimum percentage of fillet welds should be tested using NDT methods in addition to visual inspection.

60. There are new panels shown on the floor plans and new panel schedules;

however, there is no power one-line or riser drawing provided with the electrical drawings. Please provide a one-line drawing and feeder information.

ANSWER: Riser Diagrams will be provided with RFI responses to show feeder requirements for new panels.

61. Drawing E402 is missing drawing note #3. Please provide a note.

ANSWER: Note 3 should be revised to Note 6, as follows:

"SERVICE PANELBOARD FOR NON-IT LOADS, HVAC, CONVENIENCE

RECEPTACLES. SHALL BE EQUIPPED WITH SCHNEIDER EM3500 SERIES

DIN RAIL METER OR EQUIVALENT."

62. Drawing E402 does not indicate that panels T160003 and P160003 require a meter. All other panels on this drawing indicate meters. Please confirm that T16003 and P160003 do not receive meters also.

ANSWER: Provide meters for panels T160003 and T160003

63. Drawing E402 shows interconnecting network support center, TR interconnecting and campus interconnecting conduits. These are not marked as existing.

Are these new conduits? If so, please provide drawings indicating routing and destination of these conduits.

ANSWER: Conduits are new and are to be routed to the Network Support Room.

64. The electrical drawings do not indicate the locations of the walker duct zone distribution boxes as noted in the electrical symbols legend on E001 for the Combination Power/Data/Audio Visual Floor Box, Systems Furniture Power Feed, or Communications Feed for Systems Furniture. Please indicate these locations on the floor plans and provide a detail clarifying installation intent.

ANSWER: Walker ducts are a structural / architectural system, and are shown on the architectural plans.

65. Fan Coil Unit Drawing E904 shows panels PN12P4A and 16PS. These are not marked as existing. Are these new panels? If so, please provide panel schedules and one-line drawing with feeder information.

ANSWER: Panel 12P4A is existing. Panel 16PS is new and provided under the Base Contract. The panel schedule is shown on E-606.

66. The Project Manual’s Table of Contents lists electrical specifications 260533, 260539, 260936 and 265119 that are not included in the manual. Additionally, specifications 260534, 260537, 262416 and 262717 are included but not listed. It appears that 260534 and 260537 are being used in-lieu of 260533, please confirm.

Please also provide missing spec sections 260539, 260936 and 265119.

ANSWER: The TOC has been revised.

67. Please identify the Telecommunication Closet to which all cabling in the 2nd Floor West area (Drawing E104) is to be routed. There does not seem to be a local servicing Telecommunication Closet oriented within close distance to the area.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to RFI-002.

68. There are new panels shown on the floor plans and new panel schedules;

however, there is no power one-line or riser drawing provided with the electrical drawings. Please provide a one-line drawing and feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #60.

69. Drawing E402 is missing drawing note #3. Please provide a note.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #61.

70. Drawing E402 does not indicate that panels T160003 and P160003 require a meter. All other panels on this drawing indicate meters. Please confirm that T16003 and P160003 do not receive meters also.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #62.

71. Drawing E402 shows interconnecting network support center, TR interconnecting and campus interconnecting conduits. These are not marked as existing.

Are these new conduits? If so, please provide drawings indicating routing and destination of these conduits.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #63.

72. The electrical drawings do not indicate the locations of the walker duct zone distribution boxes as noted in the electrical symbols legend on E001 for the Combination Power/Data/Audio Visual Floor Box, Systems Furniture Power Feed, or Communications Feed for Systems Furniture. Please indicate these locations on the floor plans and provide a detail clarifying installation intent.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #63.

73. Fan Coil Unit Drawing E904 shows panels PN12P4A and 16PS. These are not marked as existing. Are these new panels? If so, please provide panel schedules and one-line drawing with feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #65.

74. The Project Manual’s Table of Contents lists electrical specifications 260533, 260539, 260936 and 265119 that are not included in the manual. Additionally, specifications 260534, 260537, 262416 and 262717 are included but not listed. It appears that 260534 and 260537 are being used in-lieu of 260533, please confirm.

Please also provide missing spec sections 260539, 260936 and 265119.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #66.

75. There are new panels shown on the floor plans and new panel schedules;

however, there is no power one-line or riser drawing provided with the electrical drawings. Please provide a one-line drawing and feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #60.

76. Drawing E402 is missing drawing note #3. Please provide a note.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #61.

77. Drawing E402 does not indicate that panels T160003 and P160003 require a meter. All other panels on this drawing indicate meters. Please confirm that T16003 and P160003 do not receive meters also.

78. Drawing E402 shows interconnecting network support center, TR

Are these new conduits? If so, please provide drawings indicating routing and destination of these conduits.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #63.

79. The electrical drawings do not indicate the locations of the walker duct zone distribution boxes as noted in the electrical symbols legend on E001 for the Combination Power/Data/Audio Visual Floor Box, Systems Furniture Power Feed, or Communications Feed for Systems Furniture. Please indicate these locations on the floor plans and provide a detail clarifying installation intent.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #64.

80. Fan Coil Unit Drawing E904 shows panels PN12P4A and 16PS. These are not marked as existing. Are these new panels? If so, please provide panel schedules and one-line drawing with feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #65.

81. The Project Manual’s Table of Contents lists electrical specifications 260533, 260539, 260936 and 265119 that are not included in the manual. Additionally, specifications 260534, 260537, 262416 and 262717 are included but not listed. It appears that 260534 and 260537 are being used in-lieu of 260533, please confirm.

Please also provide missing spec sections 260539, 260936 and 265119.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response comment #66.

82. Per sheet G006, General Existing Relocated (E/R) Furniture Plan Sheet Notes at 1, General Contractor to reinstall existing/reused furniture and also provide all parts and pieces for a complete installation:

a. Please provide manufacturer, make and model details of the existing furniture.

b. Please clarify if General Contractor is responsible only to reassemble furniture system with the parts and pieces that will be provided by the Government.

c. If the intent is that the Contractor shall furnish and install any missing parts and pieces that will be required to complete installation, please provide a list of parts to assist with estimating time and cost to provide complete installation.

ANSWERS:

A). The A/E team does not have the make and model and manufacturer's (manufacturers') information.

B). The Contractor shall reassemble the Government's existing systems furniture with all the existing parts and pieces. It's the Contractor's responsibility to provide a full and complete working product.

C). All the salvaged parts and pieces are currently stored in the Ground Floor VA storage room.

83. Will the contracting office accept CPARS in lieu of Past Performance Questionnaires?

ANSWER: No, the contractor must submit the questionnaire.

84. Will the contracting office allow contractors to edit the format of Attachment1 or are we limited to the 2 pages provided?

ANSWER: Please provide the requested information in the attachment.

Supplemental information may also be provided on additional pages.

85. Could you indicate who the controls contractor is for the building? And provide their contact information?

ANSWER: This information will be provided at the time of award. The POC for the building DDC may be requested from the Building Manager post award.

86. Will there be a lay down area for storage of materials on site?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.1.C.25 for information regarding on-site material storage.

87. Parking is both difficult and expensive in Baltimore will a parking area be provided for the period of construction. If parking is not provided the contractor will need to figure this expense in their proposal.

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.1.C.11 for parking policies.

88. Will contractors have use of the loading dock?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.1.C.7 for loading dock use policy.

89. Will contractors have access to the freight elevator?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.1.C.23 for freight elevator usage..

90. Will the phased construction be during normal working hours? If not, what will the preferred hours be?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.4 for project working hours.

91. Will long term dumpsters be allowed for this project?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.1.C.21 for dumpster policy.

92. How far up the wall should the wall protection go, 4' or 8'?

ANSWER: 48" is the minimum.

93. Should we assume that we are installing a metal stud/drywall or plywood partition where the phases end to section off the different phases of construction?

ANSWER: The area of work is clearly delineated within each construction phase.

There is no area of work that is adjacent to another phase within the project. The area of work shall be secure at all times.

94. Is the ceiling throughout the space a plenum ceiling for return air or ducted back to each HVAC unit?

ANSWER: The ceiling cavity is designed as a return air plenum.

95. Do all of the returns in the ceiling grid or at each unit need to be covered with Merv 13 filter media and changed throughout the project?

ANSWER: Outdoor air within the building is filtered, conditioned, and delivered by existing to remain systems within the building to each terminal unit. Refer to M-105 for zones located below the 3rd Floor. The 16th Floor is supported through DOAS units located in the Penthouse. MERV-13 is only required where outdoor air is first treated, and is therefore not a requirement at the terminal level.

96. What would the work hours be? Is this project a night job?

ANSWER: Refer to specification section 011400.1.4 for project working hours.

97. Will a dumpster be able to be staged at the upper deck parking area?

ANSWER: Coordination for the dumpster will take place after the award.

98. How many parking spaces will be allotted for this construction project on the upper parking deck?

ANSWER: Coordination for parking will take place after the award. No parking is guaranteed.

99. How are deliveries coordinated?

ANSWER: Deliveries can be coordinated through the Jacobs Construction Manager who will work to schedule all deliveries through the building.

100. The total duration of the project is 1062 calendar days. The job is in 5 phases and site availability is as per the phased work, one phase at a time. What is the duration of each of the phases or will the duration of site availability be as per contractor’s schedule?

ANSWER: The sample schedule has a suggested duration for each phase. The substantial completion of each phase will be coordinated between GSA and the contractor once a construction schedule has been approved.

101. Since the selection criteria are not based on the low bid, what is the weightage for the technical factors and bid number for the selection criteria?

ANSWER: As stated in the solicitation, the technical evaluation factors are listed in decreasing order of importance, with Prior Experience on Relevant Projects and Past Performance on Relevant Projects worth considerably more.

102. What is the extent of ceiling repair/replacement in Future Office Suite #1 (025032) where walls are scheduled to be removed? Key Note 8 on A203 indicates "NO

NEW ARCHITECTURAL SCOPE OF WORK IN THIS AREA; REFER TO

ENGINEERING DRAWINGS FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION".

ANSWER: Demolition work as shown; no new ceiling work; existing ceiling to remain in Future Office Suite #1.

103. In order to accurately price finish materials, we need to know what they are or at least an allowance amount. The following finishes either state “Match Existing” or “Verify with Govt.” ACT-3, ACT-4, ACT-6, CG-2, CG-3, CPT-4, CPT-6, CB-1, CT-3.

How can this be accomplished during the bid phase?

ANSWER: The coordination of final finish will be handled with the successful contractor after award. For bidding purposes please assume a cost for the finish and outline your assumption.

104. Per Key Notes #1 & #3 on A024 - Second Floor (PLN West) Demo RCP the perimeter bulkheads are existing to remain. Similarly Key Notes #1 & #12 on A204 - Second Floor (Pln West) New Work RCP indicate these bulkheads are existing to remain. However, cut 5/A521 indicates a new bulkhead typical at these locations.

Please advise.

ANSWER: New bulkheads are to be installed where they may have been damaged by existing ceiling removal.

105. Under the management plan, it states to provide the resume for a primary contract manager. Is that position the same as a project executive? Also, are any other resumes required with the submission?

ANSWER: Project Manager is the same as contract manager. Provide resumes for the requested positions in the solicitation.

106. Please confirm the commissioning agent is to be provided by GSA, and the contractor is to provide coordination for commissioning only.

ANSWER: This is correct.

107. The E series drawings reference several conflicting directions as to Telecommunications cable type. Cat6, Cat6E, and Cat6A are all referenced. Please confirm which cable type is desired for this system?

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to RFI-052.

108. Please identify the Telecommunication Closet to which all cabling in the 2nd Floor West area (Drawing E104) is to be routed. There does not seem to be a local servicing Telecommunication Closet oriented within close distance to the area.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to RFI-002.

109. Per drawing sheet E402 note 7, please provide a specification or Basis of Design for the Chatsworth Cabinet.

ANSWER: Relevant information provided from the VA's EDICT guideline for the cabinet, specifications, terminations, and labeling requirements for telecommunication wiring. Refer to the attached NSC-ER-TR PDF.

110. Per scope of work note 4 on sheet G-004, please confirm if audio-visual, telecommunications, and electronic security systems are to be government furnished and installed, or if the contractor shall furnish and install any of these systems.

ANSWER: Refer to keynotes on new work floor plans and enlarged new work floor plans; (Example: Keynote 8 on A401 states ceiling mounted projector is tenant furnished/contractor installed). Card readers and card reader system is contractor provided and contractor installed.

111. If owed by the contractor, please confirm the existing physical access control system.

ANSWER: Existing proximity cards.

112. Please confirm the existing manufacturer of the DDC for the HVAC systems.

ANSWER: Per Specification Section 230923 paragraph 1, the existing DDC system is Reliable Controls.

113. Referencing drawing sheet PD-106, the keynote 4 text is cut off from the floor plan. Please revise the sheet to show the full note.

ANSWER: Refer to revised PD106 in Addendum 3 documents.

114. Section 011400, page 2 states that the contractor is responsible for all permits including the building permit and several trade permits. Considering that this is a government project, please confirm that the contractor is not responsible for these permits, especially the building permit.

ANSWER: The contractor is not responsible for the building permit. Permits are not required for projects on Federal Properties.

115. Hazardous Materials note 5 on sheet G004 indicates that sprayed-on fireproofing debris is present inside the hard plaster columns and is required to be removed. Sheet A011 keynote #6 states that hazardous materials may be contained within the existing hard plaster column surrounds and that this applies to all columns shown on the drawings whether noted or not. Demolition plans do not indicate removal of these column surrounds and the new work drawings show these columns as existing. Please describe the method for removing the fireproofing debris within these columns and define the extent or quantity of contaminants that may be required. Furthermore, are the existing building columns within these enclosures fireproofed with asbestos containing materials and if so, will abatement or this material also be required?

ANSWER: Note 5 on G004 states that the sprayed-on fire proofing to be removed (see last part of paragraph) "…..if renovation or demolition activity that may disturb such materials." Hazardous materials do not need to be removed if it is not being disturbed by renovation work or demolition work.

116. Section 011000 references hazardous material testing. Please confirm this will be performed by the owner or provide testing quantities that should be included in our price proposal.

ANSWER: Testing will be performed by the government.

117. Section 014000 requires a full-time quality control manager but also states the QC may be the superintendent. Is this correct or will we be required to provide separate full-time superintendent and quality control personnel?

ANSWER: Please refer to the requirements in the solicitation for this information.

118. Section 015950 requires a full-time safety and health officer for projects over $10 Million. Assuming this project is over $10 Million is the safety and health officer required to be full time with no other responsibilities?

ANSWER: A Full time safety and health officer is required for projects over $10 Million. The contractor must determine who will assume this responsibility.

119. Section 013100 requires the following staff positions; Waste coordinator, MEP coordinator, Commissioning coordinator, Systems/IT coordinator, and Security System coordinator. Please clarify which of these positions are required to be full time or may have no other responsibilities.

ANSWER: The contractor shall make the determination of these positions.

However, these positions must be available throughout the life of the project.

120. Will CPARS evaluations be accepted in lieu of the Attachment 2 Past Performance Questionnaire form? The client is usually less responsive to repeat PPQ requests for projects that have completed CPARS evaluation.

ANSWER: No, the contractor must submit the questionnaire. If you are unable to submit what has been requested this may impact your evaluation.

121. The RFP states, Offerors may resubmit questionnaires previously submitted with other proposals or may obtain an updated/new PPQ from a client for any submission.

Will a previously completed Standard NAVFAC/USACE PPQ-0 form be acceptable in lieu of Attachment 2 Past Performance Questionnaire form?

ANSWER: If a previous evaluation was documented on the same exact PPQ form as included in Attachment 2, then that is acceptable. If you are unable to submit what has been requested this may impact your evaluation.

122. For one of our projects, the Contracting Officer and the Project Manager/COR is no longer with GSA to fill out the Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ). Can we use the CPARS in place of the PPQ since there is no one else at GSA that can fill out the PPQ for the project?

ANSWER: If you are unable to submit what has been requested this may impact your evaluation. Provide the CPARS evaluation with an explanation that the CO and PM/COR are no longer with GSA.

123. Please provide contact for the HVAC controls contractor for the building.

ANSWER: The POC for the building controls may be requested from the Building Manager post award.

124. Please provide contact for the lighting controls contractor for the building.

ANSWER: The POC for the building lighting controls may be requested from the Building Manager post award.

125. Please provide contact for the fire alarm controls contractor for the building.

ANSWER: The POC for the FA controls may be requested from the Building Manager post award.

126. On E-4.02; Details #1, #2, #3 and #4 have notes referencing incoming interconnecting conduits with specific count and trade size. It is unclear to us if these conduits are to be provided and where their stop points are. These notes do not correlate with the fiber conduit riser on E-7.01. Please clarify.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #63. Refer to the attached RFI 126 - Sketch.

127. Please confirm the location of the demountable partition scope. Is it meant to be an alternate to Partition Type 7A?

ANSWER: There are no 'demountable partitions' (non-permanent partitions) within the project. All partitions are permanent.

128. There are new panels shown on the floor plans and new panel schedules;

however, there is no power one-line or riser drawing provided with the electrical drawings. Please provide a one-line drawing and feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the Partial Power Riser Diagram issued with Addendum 3 documents.

129. Drawing E402 does not indicate that panels T160003 and P160003 require a meter. All other panels on this drawing indicate meters. Please confirm that T16003 and P160003 do not receive meters also.

130. Drawing E402 shows interconnecting network support center, TR

Are these new conduits? If so, please provide drawings indicating routing and destination of these conduits.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #63.

131. The electrical drawings do not indicate the locations of the walker duct zone distribution boxes as noted in the electrical symbols legend on E001 for the Combination Power/Data/Audio Visual Floor Box, Systems Furniture Power Feed, or Communications Feed for Systems Furniture. Please indicate these locations on the floor plans and provide detail clarifying the installation intent.

ANSWER: The symbols are indicated throughout the drawing set, mainly focused on conference room spaces with island tables. The intent of the "WAV" symbol is to provide a single 4-13/16"x4-1/8"x2-1/2" walker duct compatible floor box for access into the AV walker duct cell to support the under table combination power/data/AV floor box assembly. A 1-1/2" conduit from the top of the recessed WAV box shall be required to be extended to above ceiling to support the adjacent "AV" termination for TVs, etc within the room.

132. Fan Coil Unit Drawing E904 shows panels PN12P4A and 16PS. These are not marked as existing. Are these new panels? If so, please provide panel schedules and one-line drawing with feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #65.

133. The Project Manual’s Table of Contents lists electrical specifications 260533, 260539, 260936 and 265119 that are not included in the manual. Additionally, specifications 260534, 260537, 262416 and 262717 are included but not listed. It appears that 260534 and 260537 are being used in-lieu of 260533, please confirm.

Please also provide missing spec sections 260539, 260936 and 265119.

ANSWER: Refer to previous RFI question #66. The TOC has been reissued. Refer to Addendum #03 and the narrative. The specifications for Divisions 22, 23, 26, and 27 have been reissued.

134. The basis of design for the raised access floor system (Gridd 40) is 1.6 inches thick. DIRTT Raised access floor is 3" thick. Please advise if this is an acceptable alternate as it will impact the footprint of the ramps. Is this Alt. product acceptable?

ANSWER: Bid must be based on the requirements within the contract documents.

Any substitutions can be requested through the submittal process.

135. On ED-1.08, Note #4 narrative is missing.

ANSWER: Note 4 should state " DISCONNECT AND REMOVE EXISTING

TOGGLE SWITCH."

136. There are new panels shown on the floor plans and new panel schedules;

however, there is no power one-line or riser drawing provided with the electrical drawings. Please provide a one-line drawing and feeder information.

ANSWER: Please refer to the response to comment #128.

137. Please provide the FFE contractor that the GSA is currently working with in order for coordination purposes.

ANSWER: The POC for FEE may be requested from the Building Manager post award.

138. Please provide wage scale rates.

ANSWER: The wage determination was included in Amendment 002.

139. Note 3 on A022 shows to demo hard ceilings. Note 3 is noted in a no work zone.

Please advise if we are to include this area in our demo cost.

ANSWER: No demolition work to the existing gyp. bd. ceilings if MEP and FP are not doing any above ceiling work in these areas.

140. Can (2) floors be worked on at the same time?

ANSWER: There may be an opportunity to work on the ground floor during one of the other phases. Work to be bid according to the Phasing within the CDs.

141. Please confirm that the FFE is not to be included.

ANSWER: The contractor must provide everything required in the drawings/specifications.

142. Please confirm that all IT, Security, Communications, and Speakers are not to be included.

ANSWER: The contractor must provide everything required in the drawings/specifications.

Refer to keynotes on new work floor plans and enlarged new work floor plans;

(Example: Keynote 8 on A401 states ceiling mounted projector is tenant furnished/contractor installed). "All telecommunications work is required under this contract. AV and Security require conduit, backbox, and pullstring only. "

143. Note 5 on A014 notes to salvage existing wall art for reinstallation by others.

This wall art is adhered to the wall and will most likely be damaged during removal.

Please advise how we should proceed.

ANSWER: This will be coordinated with the successful contractor at the time of award. Salvage substrate that the existing graphic is mounted to.

144. Please confirm if Escorts are a requirement for the project and if GC is responsible for Escorting.

ANSWER: The GC is responsible for any escorting of their short-term staff or subcontractors, as per the HSPD-12 requirements. All Contractors are required to have HSPD-12 Security clearance otherwise.

145. Please confirm the existing Fire Alarm System.

ANSWER: JH 11/16/2021: Existing Fire Alarm System in building is Simplex 4100U.

146. Please confirm the existing Controls System.

ANSWER: This information will be provided at the time of award. Existing proximity cards.

147. Please confirm the existing Security System.

ANSWER: This information will be provided at the time of award. Existing proximity cards.

148.