Geo Tech Qestion Set 1.pdf

U.S. Department 55 Broadway of Transportation Cambridge, MA 02142

Volpe National Transportation Systems Center

Date: 19 November 2020

Lowell National Park Geo Technical Review and Pole Replacement Design

Solicitation No.: 6913G621Q300011

Subject: Question Set 1

The following questions have been asked regarding this solicitation. The Government has responded in kind. Please below for answers.

1) What is the intent of the design details found in Appendix A as well as the pole detail provided as file “img_3479”? Is it the government’s intent to provide these details as as-builts of the existing poles (for reference by the design team), or is this to be used as the preliminary basis of design for the new poles (to be designed under Task 2 of the solicitation)?

Answer: These are two installation details of existing steel poles for the Lowell Catenary system. These are nothing more than guide. If there is another installation method, please recommend.

2) If these typical details (found in Appendix A and file “img_3479”) are to be used as the basis of design, does the design team have the ability to deviate from this design if necessary?

Answer: These are two installation details of existing steel poles for the Lowell Catenary system. These are nothing more than guide. If there is another design, please recommend.

3) Are there any known restrictions to geotechnical investigation other than traffic hazards (such as areas where subsurface investigation is not allowed or not possible)?

Answer: Other than traffic, there no other known restrictions but that also depends on the size of the equipment. There are areas near Swamp Locks (small wooden Passover) where the canal wall is compromised. But the construction of the canal wall in the area is consistent along Dutton Street.

4) In addition to this, I was wondering if you had any pictures of the current existing poles as they are installed at the site (both wood and steel types).

Answer: Pictures are attached for your review.