Questions Answers.pdf

1 What is the manufacturer/platform/ brand/version/model number for systems in place?

The current system is Tridium- Niagara 4 version 4.9 field controllers-Distech, KMC, Siemens, Viconics, rheem, ICC inc, ABB; The Government intends to upgrade the system to version

4.15 as part of a separate eƯort prior to the start of this contract.

2 What type of HVAC gateway systems or interface modules do we use to communicate from our program to the units going through the BAS system? Like do we have a JACE controller, if so, do we know where it is installed so members could look at it? (This controller acts as a universal translator, using drivers to bridge virtually any HVAC system to a central interface.)

Distech, KMC, Siemens, Viconics, rheem, ICC inc.

3 The PWS requires the Contractor to perform BAS database backups and restorations but does not define the size, structure, or complexity of the BAS database environment. In practice, BAS databases can vary significantly in complexity. For example: A database with extensive trend histories may require significant storage and processing time for backup and restoration.

A database with numerous graphics, schedules, and custom logic blocks may require specialized expertise to restore correctly. A corrupted database may require manual reconstruction of schedules, logic, or graphics if backups are incomplete or outdated. A database stored on aging hardware may be prone to corruption or slow performance, increasing restoration time. Because database complexity directly aƯects maintenance eƯort, and because the PWS does not define database size or structure, the scope of database maintenance is unclear. Can the Government provide information on BAS database size, number of histories, number of trends, and any archiving requirements?

Yes once current system is fully operational again.

4 Is there an ATO, if so what are the boundaries?

Base ITs are the Authorized Technical Operators of the “Servers” that houses the BAS HVAC program, they have in the past performed functions such as re-booting the server that the BAS HVAC program is housed on, doing this would allow the BAS HVAC program to function properly if there were any IT related technical diƯiculties. They also are who we contact for access into the space where the program is housed

5 Confirm if this is a new requirement or a recompete?

This is a recompete

6 Could the Government please clarify if there is an incumbent contractor currently performing the Building Automation System (BAS) maintenance services at the C5ISC facility? If so, could the Government provide the incumbent contractor's name, the previous contract/order number, and the total evaluated award value?

Incumbent information can be found on SAM.

7 Please confirm the current Niagara Supervisor licensing configuration (e.g., number of licensed stations).

The current licensing information is tied to the hardware replacement and upgrade to v4.15. The successful contractor will be responsible for maintaining the new license, which will be a standard server license for 18 buildings and an estimated 1,500 points. This estimate is for bidding purposes only.

8 How old is the existing controls infrastructure?

Niagara 4 version 4.9, software program, age is probably same as software version.

9 Do you have any available scope documents, as-built drawings, or system documentation that you can provide for reference?

See Attachment III

10 Is there a mechanical plan or blue prints for the building?

See Attachment IV

11 Can the Government provide existing BAS documentation, diagrams, network maps, or standard operating procedures?

Yes, once system is fully restored

12 Are control drawings available? Control drawings are available digitally on the BAS head-end server. They will be accessible to the contractor once the system is operational. So, no, not at this time

13 How many HVAC systems are there? 26 FLN serving multiple units, number can be confirmed once BAS is operational again. For bidding purposes, vendors should assume approximately 75-100 major HVAC systems (e.g., AHUs, RTUs, Chillers, Boilers) are connected to the BAS across the 18 facilities. A full inventory will be provided at contract start.

14 How many controllers, panels, devices, sensors, graphics, and HVAC units are tied into the BAS?

For bidding purposes, vendors should assume an estimated 1,500 total points (including controllers, sensors, devices). A full inventory will be provided at contract start.

15 Can the Government provide a complete inventory of all BAS-connected devices (JACE controllers, field controllers, sensors, VFDs, dampers, actuators, AHUs, chillers, boilers, network switches, BAS workstation specifications, OEM-locked components)?

A complete inventory will be provided at time of award. For bidding purposes, please refer to the estimates provided in the above two (2) questions. Assume a mix of new and legacy devices.

16 How many buildings do we have onsite that utilize the BAS system?

18 buildings

17 What is the sq ft of the facility? There are 18 buildings connected to the BAS system.

18 Is electricity provided? Yes, it is provided 19 Is remote access allowed at all, or is all work strictly onsite?

Work is done onsite for this maintenance contract

20 What are the CMMC requirements for this contract?

Bidders should assume CMMC Level 2 compliance is required for this eƯort due to the integration, licensing, and management of

JACE controllers and system-wide head-end configurations.

21 What are the cybersecurity requirements for this contract?

no access to Classified National Security Information (CNSI) or access to classified systems is necessary for completion of requested scope; no DD254 is required for this contract.

22 Who is responsible getting communication reestablished between the workstation and the Server?

Team eƯort between base IT and incumbent IT.

23 During the walk it was mentioned that the server was maintained by others, please clarify who is responsible for the server.

Base IT technicians maintain server.

24 The PWS mentions analyzing energy. No energy meters were identified during the site walk, Energy meters are maintained by Coast Guard Civil Eng. Unit

25 During the site walk, it was noticed some control panels do not meet code. Who is responsible for correcting code issues?

Code compliance is a shared responsibility. The contractor shall identify any code deficiencies discovered during maintenance and report them to the COR. The Facility Engineer will determine the responsible party for correction. The contractor is not responsible for correcting pre-existing code issues unless directed via a modification.

26 Please confirm whether any Tridium JACE controllers are installed at the site. If so, please identify the model(s) (e.g., JACE- 8000, JACE-9000) and provide the Host ID and serial number(s), if available. If this information cannot be released prior to award, please advise whether it will be made available to the successful contractor.

Yes, Tridium JACE controllers are installed. For bidding purposes, assume there are approximately 10-15 JACEs of the 8000 series.

Host IDs and serial numbers will be provided to the successful contractor for licensing purposes.

27 Please confirm whether the existing Siemens Building Automation System is integrated with the Niagara Supervisor. If so, please identify the integration method or driver currently in use (e.g., Maxline, PurpleSwift, or other).

Yes, it was on the front end

28 Will the successful contractor be provided remote access to the BAS after award, or will all maintenance activities be required to be performed onsite?

All maintenance activities will be required to be performed onsite

29 Is Government-furnished equipment required to access the BAS network, or may the contractor use its own laptop while performing onsite services?

Refer to PWS 2.0 and 6.0

30 During the site visit, the BAS was not operational and could not be accessed.

Please confirm whether the system is expected to be fully operational at the start of contract performance.

The Government is actively working to restore BAS functionality. While it is expected to be fully operational at contract start, the successful contractor's first 30 days shall include a system-wide health check and validation of all connected components.

31 The Performance Work Statement requires restoration of BAS operations within four (4) hours of notification. Please clarify whether this requirement refers to: (a) contractor arrival onsite within four (4) hours, or (b) complete restoration of BAS operations within four (4) hours.

The requirement is for the contractor to be onsite and have begun active troubleshooting within 4 hours for emergency calls. A plan for complete restoration must be provided to the COR if resolution is not possible within the initial 4-hour window.

32 Does the four-hour emergency restoration clock begin at Government notification or Contractor acknowledgment?

The four-hour emergency response and troubleshooting window begins at Government notification (defined as the receipt of an email or phone call from the Contracting OƯicer's Representative [COR] or designated duty oƯicer).

33 Please confirm whether all required Niagara software licenses, maintenance agreements, and any third-party integration or driver licenses necessary to support the existing BAS will be Government-furnished, or if the contractor is expected to include these items in its pricing.

Yes contractor is expected to include these items in its pricing.

34 Please provide list of equipment being controlled for each of the 18 buildings.

A detailed equipment list will be provided upon award. For bidding purposes, assume a standard mix of air handling units, variable air volume (VAV) boxes, fan coil units, chillers, boilers, and associated pumps and fans.

35 When was the last service provided on the system?

May 2026

36 Is this a controls contract or a HVAC contract?

controls contract

37 Can the Government identify which buildings or HVAC units are fully integrated into the BAS and which operate independently through the Niagara Framework?

All 18 buildings have some level of BAS integration. However, not all HVAC units within those buildings are connected. Assume approximately 80% of major equipment is fully integrated. The remaining 20% may operate as standalone systems.

38 Can the Government provide a diagram or list of all JACE controllers and their physical locations?

This can be provided at time of award.

39 Is remote access to the BAS environment strictly prohibited, or is limited remote access permissible under DHS Sensitive Systems Handbook 4300A?

Refer to PWS. 6.0 GOVERNMENT

FURNISHED RESOURCES

40 Are Contractor laptops permitted to connect to the BAS workstation or BAS network for diagnostics, provided they meet DHS cybersecurity requirements?

Refer to PWS, 6.0 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED RESOURCES and 7.0

CONTRACTOR FURNISHED

PROPERTY

41 Does the Government require prior approval before applying OEM software patches, or may the Contractor apply patches as part of monthly preventative maintenance?

Refer to PWS, 4.0 CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL and 2.0 SPECIFIC

REQUIREMENTS/TASKS

42 Is the Contractor responsible for troubleshooting, repairing, or replacing BAS workstation hardware, operating system issues, network connectivity issues, or credential/permission issues?

Refer to PWS 2.0 SPECIFIC

REQUIREMENTS/TASKS

43 Can the Government confirm whether current BAS workstation login issues are related to credential problems, software version mismatch, or hardware limitations?

hardware issue, disk drive will be replaced by Government ITs

44 Can the Government identify which BAS-controlled systems are considered mission-critical and require priority restoration?

All systems are mission critical.

However, to ensure a fair and executable SLA, the contractor must acknowledge the notification within 1 hour of receipt, establish an onsite presence within 4 hours of notification to begin active troubleshooting, and provide the COR with a restoration plan if complete system recovery cannot be achieved within that initial 4-hour window.

45 Can the Government identify historically high-failure components to assist in developing the labor and parts schedule?

A review of past service reports can be arranged upon award.

Historically, failures have been most common with older pneumatic actuators and sensors

46 Can the Government provide examples of events historically classified as catastrophic for BAS operations at C5ISC?

Government can request maintenance reports to review historical trends, yes.

47 Can the Government clarify which corrective maintenance activities are part of the FFP preventative maintenance scope versus those requiring separate task orders?

Any corrective maintenance is that which is outside the list of preventative maintenance as per the PWS under section 2.0 and must be handled as per the PWS

2.7 Repairs.

48 The PWS requires the Contractor to perform corrective maintenance but does not define what specific activities fall under this requirement. In practice, corrective maintenance within a BAS environment can include a wide range of tasks with significantly diƯerent cost, labor, and material implications. For example: A failed temperature sensor may require simple replacement, but identifying the failure may involve troubleshooting wiring, communication buses, or controller inputs.

A malfunctioning actuator may require recalibration, but the root cause may be a failed motor, stripped gears, or a seized damper assembly. A controller communication failure may appear to be a

Any corrective maintenance is that which is outside the list of preventative maintenance as per the PWS under section 2.0 and must be handled as per the PWS

2.7 Repairs.

software issue, but the underlying cause may be a failed network switch, damaged cabling, or a power supply problem. A corrupted BAS database may require restoration from backup, but the corruption may be caused by hardware failure, storage limitations, or improper shutdown procedures. Because corrective maintenance can involve both software and hardware components, and because the PWS does not define which corrective actions are included in the FFP scope, the boundaries of corrective maintenance are unclear. Can the Government clarify which corrective maintenance activities are included in the FFP scope and which activities, repairs, or replacements require separate funding or task order authorization?

49 Does corrective maintenance include replacement of sensors, actuators, controllers, VFD components, software reinstallation, reprogramming, rebuilding graphics, schedules, databases, network switches, or BAS workstation repair?

Any corrective maintenance is that which is outside the list of preventative maintenance as per the PWS under section 2.0 and must be handled as per the PWS

2.7 Repairs.

50 What criteria will the Government use to determine whether a maintenance or repair activity is in-scope under FFP preventative maintenance or out-of-scope requiring a separate task order?

Any corrective maintenance is that which is outside the list of preventative maintenance as per the PWS under section 2.0 and must be handled as per the PWS

2.7 Repairs.

51 How will separate task orders be issued under a purchase order, and what contractual mechanism will be used to authorize, fund, and track these task orders?

This will be a Firm Fixed Price Purchase Order with no separate task orders being issued under it.

52 Are any BAS components OEM-locked or requiring manufacturer-specific tools, credentials, or licensing?

Yes

53 Is the Contractor responsible for purchasing, renewing, or maintaining Niagara Framework or OEM software

Yes and required to notify the Government prior to expiration or renewing licenses required for maintenance, upgrades, or data backups?

54 Will Contractor personnel require an escort for all mechanical rooms and rooftop units, or only restricted areas?

Yes

55 Will temporary badges be issued for recurring monthly maintenance visits, or must badges be requested for each visit?

The Security OƯice requires prior notification before each visit

56 What is the approval process for after-hours work required under PWS Section 5.4?

Refer to PWS Section 5.4 for approval process

57 Does the Government prefer a specific monthly service report structure (checklist, narrative, screenshots, trending data), or may the Contractor propose a standardized format?

The Contractor can propose a standardized format

58 Does the Government prefer quarterly performance metrics presented as tables, charts, dashboards, or a combination?

The Contractor can propose a standardized format

59 Do oƯsite backups require encryption, specific storage standards, or DHS approval?

Yes, encrypted industry standards must be met.

60 Will Government IT support be provided for BAS workstation issues, network outages, or credential resets?

Network outages, yes, Government IT support will be provided; credential resets is on successful contractor who is awarded contract.

61 The solicitation establishes separate CLINs for FFP preventative maintenance and NTE corrective maintenance. This structure may unintentionally create unbalanced pricing risk, where oƯerors underbid preventative maintenance and shift costs into corrective maintenance. In practice, corrective maintenance costs can vary widely depending on the nature of the failure. For example: A simple sensor replacement may require minimal labor, but diagnosing the failure may require multiple hours of troubleshooting across controllers, wiring, and communication buses. A failed actuator may require replacement, but determining whether the failure is mechanical or electrical may require

The Government's intent is for the FFP CLIN to cover all preventative maintenance as defined in the PWS. The NTE CLIN for corrective maintenance is an allowance for repairs requiring parts and labor beyond routine adjustments.

Pricing will be evaluated for reasonableness to ensure a fair balance between the two CLINs.

extensive inspection and testing. A BAS workstation failure may appear to be a software issue, but the root cause may be hardware degradation, operating system corruption, or network authentication problems. A VFD alarm may appear to be a BAS issue, but the underlying cause may be a failed internal component requiring specialized mechanical or electrical repair.

Because the NTE amount is fixed and low relative to the potential scope of corrective actions, and because the solicitation does not define how corrective maintenance pricing will be evaluated or controlled, the risk of unbalanced pricing is significant. Can the Government clarify how it intends to evaluate and control corrective maintenance pricing to prevent unbalanced pricing between preventative and corrective CLINs, and ensure fair competition among oƯerors?

62 The PWS references maintenance of the HVAC automated control system and associated auxiliary equipment, but does not define the boundary between BAS control system responsibilities and HVAC mechanical equipment responsibilities. In practice, many BAS issues originate from mechanical failures that present initially as control system faults. For example: A failed actuator or damper linkage may appear as a BAS command failure until physical inspection reveals a mechanical obstruction. A variable-frequency drive (VFD) fault may appear as a BAS alarm, but the root cause may be a failed power stage or internal mechanical component. A temperature or pressure sensor may show incorrect readings due to wiring degradation or physical sensor failure, not BAS logic. An air-handling unit (AHU) may fail to start due to a motor or contactor issue, even though the BAS sequence is functioning correctly.

Because these scenarios blur the

This contract will cover preventative and corrective maintenance of the BAS control system as per the PWS.

operational line between controls and mechanicals, and because the PWS does not define which party is responsible for diagnosing or repairing mechanical root causes, the scope boundary is unclear. Can the Government clarify which activities fall under BAS control system corrective maintenance versus HVAC mechanical system troubleshooting, repair, or replacement, and confirm whether mechanical troubleshooting, repair, or replacement is excluded from the FFP scope?