89503124RWA000063_AMD_0003.pdf

(x)

89503124RWA000063

x x

1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted ; or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO BE

RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR

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

x

PHOENIX AZ 85005-6457

DSW

PO BOX 6457

DESERT SOUTHWEST REGIONAL OFFICE

US DOE/WESTERN AREA POWER

WAPA (DSW)

05/08/20240003

13. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO MODIFICATION OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS. IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required) is not extended.is extended, Items 8 and 15, and returning

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

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

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

FACILITY CODE CODE

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., street, county, State and ZIP Code)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)CODE 6. ISSUED BY

PAGE OF PAGES

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.3. EFFECTIVE DATE2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

1. CONTRACT ID CODE

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

04/01/2024

CHECK ONE A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority) appropriation data, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not is required to sign this document and return __________________ copies to the issuing office.

ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

PLEASE SEE CONTINUATION PAGE FOR DETAILS

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

15C. DATE SIGNED 16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 16C. DATE SIGNED

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

Melanie A. Dewing

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 11/2016)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Previous edition unusable

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

05/08/2024

89503124RWA000063

Amendment 0003

The purpose of this amendment is to change the Request for Proposal (RFP) due date and answer contractor questions.

A. The RFP due date is changed from May 16, 2024, at 2:00 pm (PDT) to June 6, 2024, at 2:00 pm (PDT).

B. Contractor questions and answers are provided as follows:

Question 1: Would WAPA consider handling all rock excavation foundation drilling at a unit rate to be added to the pricing sheet?

Answer 1: WAPA will not be able to provide an accurate estimated quantity for rock excavation. It has historically been difficult to define “rock”. All contractors do have the same information, so they can determine their unit rate based on their interpretation of the geotechnical data provided. Consideration of a unit rate for handling all rock foundation excavations will not be given. Bids should consider the geotechnical report so that some shafts are easier than expected, and some are a bit harder than expected.

Question 2: What is WAPA's expectation for drilling spoils? Project specs seem to indicate that they can be spread onsite when not working near residential or business areas.

Answer 2: Prior to beginning construction, the contractor shall prepare and submit for approval a Soil Management Plan. The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8 and Proponent Committed Environmental Measure (PCEM) HAZ-4.

The Soil Management Plan would provide guidance for the proper handling, onsite management, and disposal of contaminated soil, if encountered during construction, operation, and maintenance activities. Appropriately trained personnel would be onsite during preparation, grading, and related earthwork activities to monitor the soil conditions encountered. Soil from the project area should remain within the project area to retain native seeds contained in topsoil, as well as to avoid spreading the seeds/propagules of invasive species. Drilling spoils, particularly the topsoil, can and should be spread onsite, as close as possible within and around the area it was excavated.

Question 3: For Directly Embedded Steel Poles, can the WWF, Rebar, and concrete shown at the upper 3-foot of pole encasement be placed as a separate operation from the remainder of the encasement of the pole? Therefore, creating a cold joint at the 3-foot down elevation? REF: Most of the 2200 series drawings for “Steel Pole Structure Outline & Design,” but use 43-292A-2200 as an example.

Answer 3: No cold joints are allowed per the Standard Specifications.

Question 4: Can excess spoils be spread onsite within WAPA ROW or will this material be required to be off-hauled and disposed offsite?

https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement

Answer 4: Soil from the project area should remain within the project area to retain native seeds contained in topsoil, as well as to avoid spreading the seeds/propagules of invasive species. Drilling spoils, particularly the topsoil, can and should be spread onsite, as close as possible within and around the area it was excavated. Additionally, as part of restoration in those areas, surfaces should be reseeded with a certified weed free native plant seed mix and restored as close as possible to the original surface contour. Soils should not be off-hauled or disposed of offsite unless they have been contaminated with hazardous materials. A submittal of the proposed seed mix shall be provided before reseeding any areas. A separate submittal of the mix will be required for EACH area reseeded.

Question 5: For areas that are disturbed but located outside of new and existing access roads; shall these remaining areas be re-established with seeding or other planting of any kind?

Answer 5: Restoration of areas disturbed outside new and existing access roads would vary depending on coordination with the landowners. Any re-vegetation required will be certified weed free native seed mixes. A submittal of the proposed seed mix shall be provided before reseeding any areas. A separate submittal of the mix will be required for EACH area reseeded.

Question 6: Please confirm if the sequence of work and outages described in the letter from DOE titled “Notice of Advisory Two-Step Process” is contractual? It proposes outage windows and segregates the job into two main segments (North and South of Tucson/DMP) with the North Segment having 3 sub-sequences and the South Segment having 2 sub-sequences. Are these outage windows to be considered contractual by bidding contractors?

Answer 6: Yes, refer to Construction Specification Division 1.D.2.a, the given outages dates are contractual dates.

Question 7: Please confirm that WAPA intends for segments of the existing T-Line alignments to be de-energized entirely, thus allowing crews to perform full removal and construct the new T-Line efficiently without having to perform any work around energized lines. Please confirm that the “Outage” windows provided on letter from DOE titled “Notice of Advisory Two-Step Process” is trying to communicate this.

Answer 7: The Presolicitation listed the prospective outage dates as:

Marana – Rattlesnake (North Segment): 4/1/2025 – 6/23/2025 Tortolita – Marana (North Segment): 6/24/2025 – 10/16/2025 Rattlesnake – Tucson (North Segment): 10/17/2025 – 4/23/2026 Tucson – Del Bac (South Segment): 4/24/2026 – 10/26/2026 Del Bac – Vail (South Segment): 10/27/2026 – 5/26/2027

These outage dates are updated in Division 1.D.2 of the Project Specifications:

ED5 RSK: September 2, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

TUC RSK: July 1, 2025, to February 27, 2026.

DLB TUC: March 3, 2026, to February 22, 2027.

DLB NGL ADA: March 3, 2026, to February 22, 2027.

These updates and changes to the locations are due to some electrical safety issues that require that the outage be taken from ED5 instead of Marana Tap. Other changes were needed for similar reasons as well. The dates in Division 1 supersede the outages listed in the Presolicitation.

Question 8. Will contractors be permitted to perform work per WAPA/TEP guidelines in segments of the alignment ahead of the Outage Windows provided in the “Notice of Advisory Two-Step Process”? The contractor is proposing to perform incidental preparatory work for the future T-Line while the existing T-Line remains online. Scopes include Brush Removal, Access Road Clearing & Construction, Foundation Construction, etc.

Answer 8: Yes, work can be done outside MAD (Minimum Approach Distance) distances of the energized T-Line. No work can be done around or under energized T- Lines within MAD distances without outages in place.

Question 9: Liquidated Damages are indicated to be $2669.64/Calendar Day. Please confirm if this penalty is associated only with the overall duration of 910 Calendar Days, or if this penalty also applies to any sub-sequencing outage milestones that WAPA may have.

Answer 9: Liquidated damages will be associated with the 910 calendar days and days after the completion date of this project if necessary. Liquidated damages does not apply to any sub-sequencing outage milestones that WAPA may have. In accordance with FAR 11.501(b) Policy, Liquidated damages are not punitive and are not negative performance incentives. Liquidated damages are used to compensate the Government for probable damages. Therefore, the liquidated damages rate must be a reasonable forecast of just compensation for the harm that is caused by late delivery or untimely performance of the particular contract.

Question 10: There are many current construction projects both within the ROW and immediately adjacent to the ROW along the new T-Line alignment. Can WAPA please confirm that bidding contractors are to assume that transportation via AZ- DOT/County/City roads will be granted, and that any long-term detours, re-routes, closed road sections, bridge replacements, (which are all outside of contractor’s knowledge and control) would be considered an ROW delay? Considering that the sequence of construction for the overall alignment appears to be dictated (see related RFI), this gives the contractor little opportunity to maintain efficiency by re-directing crews elsewhere.

Answer 10: WAPA can’t say for sure that transportation via AZDOT, county or city roads will be possible because we won’t know what roads will be under construction in a given segment. Additionally, we do not want that to be considered a ROW delay since it is out of our hands as well. There should be alternate routes available, even if they aren’t the most efficient. The contractor should price this possibility in accordingly.

Question 11: It was mentioned at the Site Visit on 4/17 that Saguaro Cactus and other special species will be handled/removed/relocated by others. The RFI #13 response also addresses the responsibility for WAPA/TEP to handle this. Please confirm that Contractors should not anticipate in their pricing any “Right of Way” related delays for work impacted by special species.

Answer 11: WAPA and TEP are working to mitigate the known occurrences and impacts to special status plant species in advance of construction. TEP is addressing saguaro conflict activities in advance of construction. In the unlikely event there is a variance during construction and a special status species impedes construction activities, WAPA and TEP will be responsible for relocation/mitigation.

Question 12: For the section of new alignment shown to be installed immediately in front of Pima County Community College, please confirm that the existing overhead lines and structures will be relocated and/or re-routed underground by others and pose zero conflict/obstruction with the construction of the new T-Line and that contractors should not anticipate in their pricing any “Right of Way” related delays for this work.

Answer 12: That is correct. TEP will bury the existing overhead lines in the area to avoid conflict with the Vail – Tortolita Project.

Question 13: The contractor understands the requirement for brush clearing for its own access and construction of new access roads. Are there any additional requirements for brush clearing for WAPA/TEP needs beyond that shown for new access road construction?

Answer 13: Brush clearing will require coordination with WAPA and TEP environmental representatives. WAPA and TEP may need to conduct biological clearance surveys in advance of brush clearing and/or provide environmental monitors depending on the season and location. There may be a few structures that need brush cleared, and these same requirements apply.

Question 14: Within the contract documents, Attachment E for Government Furnished Equipment has been provided. Has WAPA generated a list of anticipated Contractor Furnished Equipment that can be shared for all contractors to ensure it has captured all remaining items that need to be procured for this project?

Answer 14: No. See Division 1.F of the project specifications for Government-furnished materials. All other materials shall be furnished by the Contractor.

Question 15: Is the Vail-Tortolita upgrade part of the Southline Transmission work submitted under Supplemental Analysis (SA) [DOE/EIS-0474-SA-1]. If so, can WAPA please provide a draft of the Supplemental Analysis? If WAPA cannot provide the draft, can WAPA outline the potential contractor responsible mitigation measures?

Answer 15: Yes, the Vail-Tortolita Project is implementing the Southline Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474). WAPA expects to have the supplemental analysis (DOE/EIS-0474-SA-1) published by summer 2024. The Proponent Committed Environmental Measures (PCEMs) of DOE/EIS-0474 remain in effect. Please see EIS Table 2-8 and the PCEMs, available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement. Prior to beginning construction, the Contractor shall prepare and submit to the WAPA for approval the following Protection Measure plans which are described in further detail in the EIS: Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, Hazardous Materials Management Plan, Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures Plan (SPCCP), Erosion, Dust Control, and Air Quality Plan, Construction Emission Mitigation Plan, Soil Management Plan, Waste Management Plan, Health and Safety Plan, Fire Protection Plan, Traffic and Transportation Management Plan, Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan.

Question 16: Has there been any sampling/testing performed on any existing facilities (lead/asbestos) that is part of the existing 115kV line wreck-out? If so, can that data be made available?

Answer 16: The contractor will be responsible for asbestos and lead testing, and submitting results to WAPA to confirm the proper disposition of these materials.

Question 17: Environmental Completed Surveys: Has WAPA completed any of the required plans or surveys to complete the supplemental EIS? And would WAPA please provide the data/plans? Is there Mapped Saguaros/Agave/Pima Pineapple Cacti, Mapped Noxious Weeds, Tortoise Burrows, or any other T&E Species protocol survey data?

Answer 17: WAPA and TEP have completed the surveys and plans which will be provided post-award due to sensitive resource locations. The plans were developed to meet specific mitigation requirements of the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474). See EIS Table 2-8 for reference, available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement

Question 18: Please confirm that WAPA is responsible for the following plans and, if so, can WAPA please provide these plans:

a. WEAP

b. Environmental Protection Measures Plan

c. Paleontological Monitoring Plan

d. Plant and Wildlife Species Conservation Measures Plan

e. Biological Monitoring Plan

Answer 18: WAPA and TEP are responsible for these plans. The plans will be provided post-award due to sensitive resource locations. The plans were developed to meet specific mitigation requirements of the project’s Environmental Impact Statement https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement

(DOE/EIS-0474). See EIS table 2-8 for reference, available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

Question 19: Will WAPA environmental representatives develop and implement any outstanding third-party plans (e.g. habitat monitoring/management plans, environmental training, cultural resource and treatment plans)?

Answer 19: Yes, WAPA and TEP environmental representatives developed and will implement these plans. WAPA and TEP will provide the associated environmental monitors for the project.

Question 20: Please confirm that environmental sensitive resource monitoring (biological, cultural, Native American, etc.) shall be performed by a WAPA third-party vendor (donated in the documents as Agency inspectors).

Answer 20: Yes, WAPA and TEP will provide environmental monitors for the project.

Question 21: Can WAPA provide the pole specifications, section of poles, weights of each section, and length of each section along with the pole manufacture?

Answer 21: Not at this time. Pole sections, weights, lengths, etc. are determined by the pole manufacturer and are pending Government Furnished Equipment orders. Once available from the pole manufacturers this information will be provided. Note, poles are being ordered in 3 separate phases. One is in calculation review, one is in procurement, and the last pole order is yet to be placed.

Question 22: Will WAPA consider handling all rock excavation foundation drilling at a unit rate to be added to the pricing sheet?

Answer 22: WAPA will not be able to provide an accurate estimated quantity for rock excavation. It has historically been difficult to define “rock”. All contractors do have the same information, so they can determine their unit rate based on their interpretation of the geotechnical data provided. Consideration of a unit rate for handling all rock foundation excavations will not be given. Bids should consider the geotechnical report so that some shafts are easier than expected, and some are a bit harder than expected.

Question 23: What is WAPA's expectation for drilling spoils? Project specs seem to indicate that they can be spread onsite when not working near residential or business areas.

Answer 23: Prior to beginning construction, the contractor shall prepare and submit for approval a Soil Management Plan. The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8 and Proponent Committed Environmental Measure (PCEM) HAZ-4.

The Soil Management Plan would provide guidance for the proper handling, onsite management, and disposal of contaminated soil, if encountered during construction, operation, and maintenance activities. Appropriately trained personnel would be onsite during preparation, grading, and related earthwork activities to monitor the soil conditions encountered. Soil from the project area should remain within the project area to retain native seeds contained in topsoil, as well as to avoid spreading the seeds/propagules of invasive species. Drilling spoils, particularly the topsoil, can and should be spread onsite, as close as possible within and around the area it was excavated.

Question 24: WAPA is supplying ALL Insulators for the project, except specifically stated on the pricing sheet, is WAPA providing the Wire assemblies for the Insulators? or is it the responsibility of the Contractor to procure ALL conductor assemblies?

Answer 24: WAPA will provide materials listed in the Government-furnished equipment table. The table includes some, but not all, of the conductor assemblies. This was done due to material lead time concerns.

Question 25: Can WAPA provide the companies that are providing the materials that are being provided for WAPA? Wire? Poles?

Answer 25: The first pole order is being supplied by Meyer. The other 2 pole orders have not been awarded yet.

The fiberoptic cable is HexaCore Optical Ground Wire manufactured by AFL, and it is being supplied by:

Brighter Days & Nites, Inc. 2165 Troyer Ave. Memphis, TN 38114

Telephone number: 901-775-1902

Conductor will be supplied by Prysmian Cables and Systems USA LLC

Question 26: Line Outages, are all the segments of line outages going to be continuous for the start dates to the end dates?

Answer 26: Yes, refer to Construction Specification Division 1.D.2.a

Question 27: Removals, is the contractor responsible for the poles and wire that is being removed to dispose of them? Or is there a location that the removals have to be returned to?

Answer 27: These items shall be removed and disposed, as stated in the project specifications. Any recycled materials shall be shown in the “Recycled Materials” submittal at the time of disposal.

Question 28: Can WAPA provide the bidders with a list of material that the contractor will have to purchase. Some of the material is easily identifiable, but there is the majority that is not clear. This will ensure that each contractor is pricing the same material as well as QTY.

Answer 28: No. See project specifications for Government-furnished materials. All other materials shall be furnished by the Contractor.

Question 29: The Bid Schedule sheet proves a LS for the “access road repairs”, is there an anticipated quantity for that scope?

Answer 29: See project specifications for bidding item description.

Question 30: Is civil scope outage driven – can we complete civil scope and structure setting ahead of the outage windows provided?

Answer 30: There may be opportunities for this outside of the outage windows where the line is being re-routed. The majority of the project will be on the same alignment as the existing line, requiring outages for structure and foundation installations.

Question 31: Is usage of helicopters allowed for this project?

Answer 31: Yes. Use of helicopters is permitted so long as the contractor makes all of the necessary arrangements with WAPA through the COR and follows all regulations concerning helicopter usage.

Question 32: What are the requirements for dewatering? Will baker tanks be necessary, or will discharge through filter socks be acceptable? Will this vary depending on the location of the structure?

Answer 32: Dewatering should not be conducted within 500 feet of a seep, wash, or other water body.

The Contractor shall obtain a Storm Water Construction General Permit (CGP) from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) and be responsible for preparation and implementation of the associated Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The Contractor will submit a Notice of Intent Application and appropriate fees (depending on total surface area disturbed) to ADEQ. The SWPPP will be kept onsite of the construction activities. Disturbed areas include grading, clearing and grubbing, staging, parking, fueling, stockpiling and any other construction related activities. Information on storm water permitting is available online at https://azdeq.gov/AZPDES/CGP. The SWPPP shall meet the following conditions:

(1) Identifies potential sources of storm water pollution at the construction site.

(2) Describes practices to reduce pollutants in storm water discharges from construction site. Reduction of pollutants is often achieved by controlling the volume of storm water runoff (e.g., taking steps to allow storm water to infiltrate into the soil).

(3) Identifies procedures the operator will implement to comply with the terms and conditions of a construction general permit.

https://azdeq.gov/AZPDES/CGP

(4) The Contractor shall obtain a dewatering permit from the appropriate agency if required prior to construction dewatering activities.

Question 33: Are they special requirements specified for dust control?

Chemicals/palliatives, etc.

Answer 33: Prior to beginning construction, the contractor shall prepare and submit for approval a Dust Control Plan. The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8. Oil shall not be used as a dust suppressant. Dust suppressants shall be submitted to and approved by WAPA prior to use.

Prior to construction, when earthmoving or land clearing over 1 acre is occurring in Pinal County, ensure that construction activities and the operation of equipment are undertaken to reduce the emission of air pollutants. Contractor shall complete and submit an online Dust Permit Application plus pay any permit fees to Pinal County Air Quality before construction activities begin within Pinal County. Submit the appropriate fee (depending on total surface area disturbed) with your submission of your application. The Contractor shall submit a copy of the application and Dust Control permit to the COR 14 days prior to the start of work. For additional information check https://www.pinal.gov/331/West- Pinal-Nonattainment-Area.

Prior to construction, when earthmoving or land clearing over 1 acre is occurring in Pima County, ensure that construction activities and the operation of equipment are undertaken to reduce the emission of air pollutants. Contractor shall complete and submit a Fugitive Dust Activity Permit Application plus pay any permit fees to Pima Department of Environmental Quality – Air Program before construction activities begin within Pima County. Submit the appropriate fee (depending on total surface area disturbed) with your Fugitive Dust Activity Permit Application Form. A copy of the application and Dust Control permit will need to be submitted to the COR 14 days prior to the start of work.

For application form or need additional information check Pima County online website at https://www.pima.gov/596/Fugitive-Dust.

Question 34: What are the requirements for the disposal of brushing & clearing debris?

Answer 34: The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8, specifically the Proponent Committed Environmental Measures (PCEM) in the Hazardous Materials and Waste section. Uncontaminated soils should remain onsite and be dispersed in the location proximate to where it was excavated in disturbed areas to retain native seed loads and to avoid the spread of seed/propagules of invasive plants.

https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement https://www.pinal.gov/331/West-Pinal-Nonattainment-Area https://www.pinal.gov/331/West-Pinal-Nonattainment-Area https://www.pima.gov/596/Fugitive-Dust

Question 35: Will spoils need to be tested and off hauled? Will disposal locations be provided? Are there locations where it can be spread on site?

Answer 35: Soil from the project area should remain within the project area to retain native seeds contained in topsoil, as well as to avoid spreading the seeds/propagules of invasive species. Drilling spoils, particularly the topsoil, can and should be spread onsite, as close as possible within and around the area it was excavated. Additionally, as part of restoration in those areas, surfaces should be reseeded with a certified weed free native plant seed mix and restored as close as possible to the original surface contour. Soils should not be off-hauled or disposed of offsite unless they have been contaminated with hazardous materials. A submittal of the proposed seed mix shall be provided before reseeding any areas. A separate submittal of the mix will be required for EACH area reseeded.

Question 36: Will dust control be needed for access roads and work sites?

Answer 36: Access road construction would include dust control measures. Prior to beginning construction, the contractor shall prepare and submit for approval a Dust Control Plan. The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8. The plan would identify sources of fugitive dust, such as grading activities, driving on dirt roads, or wind-driven dust from exposed soil; and then provide appropriate dust mitigation measures. Dust control measures would be consistent with all applicable local standards. On unpaved roads haul-truck cargo beds would be covered with tarps and travel speeds would be limited to no more than 15-mph to reduce fugitive dust emissions.

Prior to construction, when earthmoving or land clearing over 1 acre is occurring in Pinal County, ensure that construction activities and the operation of equipment are undertaken to reduce the emission of air pollutants. Contractor shall complete and submit an online Dust Permit Application plus pay any permit fees to Pinal County Air Quality before construction activities begin within Pinal County. Submit the appropriate fee (depending on total surface area disturbed) with your submission of your application. The Contractor shall submit a copy of the application and Dust Control permit to the COR 14 days prior to the start of work. For additional information check https://www.pinal.gov/331/West- Pinal-Nonattainment-Area.

Prior to construction, when earthmoving or land clearing over 1 acre is occurring in Pima County, ensure that construction activities and the operation of equipment are undertaken to reduce the emission of air pollutants. Contractor shall complete and submit a Fugitive Dust Activity Permit Application plus pay any permit fees to Pima Department of Environmental Quality – Air Program before construction activities begin within Pima County. Submit the appropriate fee (depending on total surface area disturbed) with your Fugitive Dust Activity Permit Application Form. A copy of the application and Dust Control permit will need to be submitted to the COR 14 days prior to the start of work.

https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement https://www.pinal.gov/331/West-Pinal-Nonattainment-Area https://www.pinal.gov/331/West-Pinal-Nonattainment-Area

For application form or need additional information check Pima County online website at https://www.pima.gov/596/Fugitive-Dust.

Question 37: Will there be a need for potholing at any of the locations?

Answer 37: There is the possibility of utility locates needing potholing or hand digging before drilling or excavating.

Question 38. What will be demoed prior to construction in addition to cactuses? Is there any portion of the existing transmission/communication lines that will be removed prior to foundation/direct embed installation begins?

Answer 38: Only specific vegetation will be removed from site by WAPA. After that, the contractor is responsible for removing any remaining vegetation. WAPA will need to coordinate when removal of additional vegetation is removed due to bio/cultural concerns.

Question 39: Did WAPA designate a specific place for disposal of removed concrete foundations, wood structures and wire?

Answer 39: This would be handled by the contractor. Concrete foundations can be taken to either a landfill or C&D recycling center. Treated wood poles can either be taken to a class 1 industrial waste landfill or recycled by WAPA signing a Consumer Information Sheet Treated Wood Poles and Cross-arms waiver. Wiring can be sent to a recycling center.

Question 40: Some foundation locations such as 34/7 show that the new structure will be placed in the same location as the old structure. Are there any specs or dimensions of the existing foundations at these exact replacement locations?

Answer 40: New structures are not located in the same location as existing structures, where the existing structures are steel monopoles or latticed steel. Their locations are shifted to sufficiently avoid conflicts with existing structure foundations.

Question 41: What is the allowed clearing area for each structure site?

Answer 41: WAPA’s right-of-way is 100’, 50’ on either side of center, in most cases. The right-of-way can vary in a few areas. The contractor is expected to stay within WAPA’s right-of-way during construction. Limit clearing to the minimum amount required. At all work areas, limit the disturbance of previously undisturbed habitats (including soils and vegetation) to the greatest extent safely practicable. Limit construction of roads and structure pads to the existing transmission line’s footprint within all washes and waterways. Clearing areas will vary and will also require coordination with WAPA and TEP’s environmental monitors who will be flagging environmentally sensitive areas for avoidance.

https://www.pima.gov/596/Fugitive-Dust

Question 42: How will correspondence during construction take place between the contractor and farmers/landowners be handled?

Answer 42: WAPA will be sending notifications in mail prior to construction and is starting to coordinate with farmers. Contractors can coordinate with landowners during construction in conjunction with WAPA. Contact information for WAPA lands personnel can be provided after award.

Question 43: Who is responsible for acquiring permits (construction/crossing/environmental/etc.)?

Answer 43: The contractor is responsible for all permitting with the possible exception of the Railroad and ADOT crossings.

Question 44: Are Saguaro to Tucson structures 17/1 through 17/5 rerouted from the original line because of no access on the farmland? (lat/long: 32.396857, -111.230248)?

Answer 44: No.

Question 45: What working restrictions will be in place when working in residential areas (south of Silverbell Rd for example) or over the golf course near structure 32/6?

Answer 45: The Contractor shall comply with local noise ordinances. The construction contractor shall schedule construction activities and route construction traffic to minimize disruption to nearby residents and existing operations surrounding the Project. Noisy construction activities (including blasting) should be limited to the least noise-sensitive times of day (daytime only between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.) and to weekdays. All construction should take place within WAPA’s current right-of-way.

Question 46: Can access to structures 27/5 through 31/1 be obtained via the pictured gate? (lat/long: 32.325471, -111.072767)?

Answer 46: 27/4 can be accessed through this gate. There is a wash to the southeast of this gate that will impede access further southeast. See Access Mapbook.

Question 47: Can access to structures 31/2 and 31/3 be obtained via the property pictured below? (lat/long: 32.294092, -111.040390)?

Answer 47: See Access Mapbook. Access may be granted on alternative route with coordination with WAPA and underlying landowner.

Question 48: Division 1 – General Requirements, Section F. – Materials, page 9 - Section lists 1272 kcmil ACSS/MA222 54/19 Pheasant as provided by WAPA. However, DIVISION 10- Transmission Line Electrical, sections 9 and 10 states:

“Furnish and install material including conductor, conductor joints, conductor repair sleeves and joint inhibitor compound required to complete conductor installation.

Please advise required Pheasant conductor for project is provided by WAPA or is contractor required to provided 1,300,000 ft of 1272 kcmil ACSS/MA222 54/19 Pheasant?

Answer 48: WAPA is providing some, but not all of the 1272 ACSS conductor. There are separate bidding items, one for installing Government-furnished and one for Furnish and Install.

Question 49: Division 1 – General Requirements, Section F. – Materials, page 9 - Additionally, Item 20, Bidding Schedule Spare Parts”, Table 10-8, page 69 states that 30,000lf of 1272 kcmil ACSS/MA222 54/19 Pheasant is to be supplied as “spares”

Please advise if contractor is required to provide 30,000 ft of 1272 kcmil ACSS/MA222 54/19 Pheasant?

Answer 49: Yes, WAPA is not providing all of the conductor for the project and will only provide the amount of conductor described in the specifications.

Question 50. At the pre-bid meeting it was mentioned that the existing transmission/distribution line running along Anklam Road past Pima Community College would be moved underground prior to the start of construction activities in the area for this project. Can you provide an expected completion date for the underground re-route?

Answer 50: WAPA does not have a specific completion date other than the assurance from TEP that the work will be completed before this project reaches that area.

Question 51. Please clarify who is responsible for any crop loss/damage associated with work in the agricultural fields.

Answer 51: WAPA is responsible for damages within the right-of-way, the contractor should work in a responsible manner to limit damage where possible. If the contractor causes damages to roads or other areas outside of WAPA rights-of-way, the contractor would be responsible.

Question 52: The RFP package highlights several potential laydown yards for this project. Will the cost of these laydown yards be covered by WAPA? Will these sites require fencing and security to be provided by the contractor?

Answer 52: WAPA has acquired 1 laydown yard. Cost of future laydown yards will not be covered by WAPA. Not all areas have fencing installed, and the contractor may install fencing as it deems necessary to protect the stored items. Any soil disturbance for levelling or installing fencing will require approval, any permits, Environmental concurrence and monitoring as needed.

The contractor shall be responsible for providing security at each laydown yard to the extent it deems necessary to protect materials stored at the laydown yard.

Question 53: To confirm, environmental resource monitors (Biology, cultural and paleo) are going to be provided by WAPA and or TEP?

Answer 53: Yes, WAPA and TEP will provide environmental monitors for the project.

Question 54: On the government furnished 366 each dulled-galvanized pole structure, will the contractor be able to provide the manufacturer with the required splice locations on these structures for ease of field erection? If not, please provide us with the established splice locations on each structure provided.

Answer 54: OPGW splice locations are defined in the project specification and project drawings.

Question 55: Will the contractor have any insurance coverage liability for the government furnished materials?

Answer 55: The GFE will be inventoried and officially turned over to the awarded contractor shortly after the contract award. Yes, the contractor will be responsible for the materials at that point.

Question 56: The following Structures have been identified as having 2 foundations required per the Foundation Data Tables within the “Steel Pole Structures Foundations” Detail Drawings. We believe the overall count for Poles does not account for two poles at these locations. Please advise if the quantity of foundations on the Foundation Data Tables will be updated, or if the Bid Form Quantity for relevant steel poles will be corrected.

a. Structure 0/7 (Detail SGR-TUC 2103, Layout SGR-TUC 4201 @ STA 033+25, BI#10, ATT D pg#44)

b. Structure 35/5R (Detail SGR-TUC 2103, Layout SGR-TUC 4238 @ STA 1878+63, BI#13, ATT D pg#45)

c. Structure 23/3L (Detail TUC-APE 2107, Layout TUC-APE 4228 @ STA 1288+71, BI#22, ATT D pg#46)

d. Structure 23/4L (Detail TUC-APE 2105, Layout TUC-APE 4228 @ STA 1293+50, BI#14, ATT D pg#46)

e. Structure 23/3R (Detail TUC-APE 2107, Layout TUC-APE 4231 @ STA 1417+42, BI#22, ATT D pg#46)

f. Structure 23/4R (Detail TUC-APE 2104, Layout TUC-APE 4231 @ STA 1422+40, BI#11, ATT D pg#46)

g. Structure 23/5 (Detail TUC-APE 2104, Layout TUC-APE 4231 @ STA 1428+22, BI#12, ATT D pg#46)

Answer 56: These are H-frame structures, which require two foundations per structure.

Question 57: Various training requirements are understood to occur throughout the contract for safety and environmental awareness. Is a table of the required training available as a checklist for the project and subcontractor personnel with identification of whether in-person or virtual along with the approximate duration of time? Is it sufficient for bidding purposes for the contractors to expect that the required training will be covered in a total of an 8-hour duration per person?

Answer 57: For environmental training requirements, refer to Table 2-8 of the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

WAPA and TEP will implement the Worker Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP). 8 hours per person is a reasonable estimate of time.

Question 58: Section E – DOE -E-2001, 52.246-12. It is understood WAPA is responsible for inspection of the construction. Please confirm the contractor is not required to provide third-party engineering services to inspect the construction installation.

Answer 58: WAPA will supply construction inspection services.

Question 59: Can WAPA please clarify which sections of the project will require the contractor to furnish materials? Section by section will dramatically change installation pricing.

Answer 59: See project specifications for Government-furnished materials. All other materials shall be furnished by the Contractor.

Question 60. Is it possible to add a CLIN for Foundation Rock Excavation so that this risk can be mitigated reducing the overall cost for WAPA?

Answer 60: WAPA will not be able to provide an accurate estimated quantity for rock excavation. It has historically been difficult to define “rock”. All contractors do have the same information, so they can determine their unit rate based on their interpretation of the geotechnical data provided. Consideration of a unit rate for handling all rock foundation excavations will not be given. Bids should consider the geotechnical report so that some shafts are easier than expected, and some are a bit harder than expected.

Question 61. It is noted in the contract specifications that in some locations foundation drilling spoils can be spread onsite when not near residential areas. Are you able to provide more clarity in this regard to help de-risk and reduce the overall cost to WAPA?

Answer 61: Prior to beginning construction, the contractor shall prepare and submit for approval a Soil Management Plan. The requirements are described further in the project’s Environmental Impact Statement (DOE/EIS-0474), available at https://www.energy.gov/nepa/articles/eis-0474-final-environmental-impact-statement.

See EIS Table 2-8 and Proponent Committed Environmental Measure (PCEM) HAZ-4.

The Soil Management Plan would provide guidance for the proper handling, onsite management, and disposal of contaminated soil, if encountered during construction, operation, and maintenance activities. Appropriately trained personnel would be onsite during preparation, grading, and related earthwork activities to monitor the soil conditions encountered. Soil from the project area should remain within the project area to retain native seeds contained in topsoil, as well as to avoid spreading the seeds/propagules of invasive species. Drilling spoils, particularly the topsoil, can and should be spread onsite, as close as possible within and around the area it was excavated.

Question 62: The KMZ file identified in Amendment 01 - Question 1 and Question 10 was not received by all site visit participants. Can WAPA provide the “for information only” kmz with the next Amendment?

Answer 62: WAPA is unable to attach the KMZ files in their system for distribution.

Offeror’s who would like the KMZ file email Mr. Martin Snow, Contract Specialist at msnow@wapa.gov.

Question 63: On the SF1442 the contract duration is indicated to be 910 Calendar Days from NTP, but the SOW document Section 52-211.10 indicates a firm completion date (inclusive of cleanup) of 7/1/27. Shall Contractors assume that WAPA will take the entirety of the 220 Calendar Days for proposal review and Award, with NTP shortly after? Will the completion date in 52-511.10 be revised to the calculated date that is 910 Calendar Days after NTP, or is the date of 7/1/27 fixed?

Answer 63: The final contract duration will be calculated based upon the project completion date of July 1, 2027. Contractors shall assume that WAPA will take the entirety of the 220 calendar days for proposal review and award with NTP to be given shortly after. The calculated date of 910 could be more or less depending on award date and NTP.

Question 64: On the SF1442 the contract duration is indicated to be 910 CD’s from NTP;

what date shall contractors assume NTP to be issued?

Answer 64: A final date for NTP cannot be calculated until after an award decision is made. Contractors should estimate a NTP date upon the estimated 220 calendar days for proposal review and award.

Question 65: Impact of Project Labor Agreement on the Small Business Plan Goals - Attachment Q.

In accordance with FAR 52.219-9, The Offeror, upon request by the Contracting Officer, shall submit and negotiate a subcontracting plan. However, Attachment Q stipulates the Western Area Power Administration’s (WAPA) objective is to match or exceed these minimum goals in our project specific subcontracting plans:

Department of Energy (DOE) Subcontracting goals are identified as follows:

Small Business Concerns (SB) – 49.0 percent; Small Disadvantaged Business Concerns (SDB) – 8.15 percent; Small Women-Owned Business Concerns (WOSB) – 5.0 percent, HUBZone Small Business Concerns (HUB) – 3.0 percent;

Veteran-Owned Small Business Concern (VOSB) – 5.0 percent; Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Concern (SDVO) – 5.0 percent.

In light of the inclusion of FAR 52.222-34 Project Labor Agreement, the preponderance of the subcontractors that must be signatory as union subcontractors are large business and significantly impact the ability to meet the small business goals. Are the subcontracting goals negotiable?

Answer 65: The subcontracting goals in Attachment Q – Current Subcontracting Plan Template are Western Area Power Administration (WAPA) goals and are informational to the offeror. The offeror must submit a Subcontracting Plan that is found acceptable by both the Contracting Officer and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). WAPA will take into consideration the inclusion of FAR 52.222-34 Project Labor Agreement when determining if a Subcontracting Plan is acceptable.