A04 DINING ROOM PROJECTCV19.docx

Conserve Historic Wall Treatment in Thomas Edison’s Dining Room at Glenmont

PMIS PROJECT 210602

Request for Proposal May 15, 2020

1. BACKGROUND

1. SCOPE/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION

CRITERIA

1. OBJECTIVES

1. TASKS

1. DELIVERY

1. GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY

1. SECURITY

1. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

1. DELIVERY/PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

1. PAYMENT SCHEDULE

1.0 BACKGROUND

The purpose of this contract is to conserve the failing wall treatment, cornice, picture rail, built-in elements, door frames, window frames, decorative archway, paneled wainscot, baseboard, and associated trim finishes as well as select areas of the canvas field above the wainscot in the historic Dining Room on the first floor of Thomas Edison’s Victorian home, Glenmont, in order to return it to its 1935 appearance. The “unifying green and gold paint scheme”, which dates back to the year 1935, is a character defining feature of this five story mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The decorative motif for the room interior represents both Mina Edison’s personal decorative taste as well as a decorative style which was popular during the 1930s era. The Dining Room was used historically to serve both family meals and also to host parties and events. The Dining Room was in service for the Edison family for over five decades. The room plays a key role in the interpretation of the home, its famous owner, and the Edison family members who resided at Glenmont. Today Glenmont is administered by the National Park Service and remains on exhibit to the public at Thomas Edison National Historical Park.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a National Park Service site located in West Orange, New Jersey. The park consists of two separate sites, approximately one mile apart. Thomas Edison’s home, Glenmont, is located in a private residential community known as Llewellyn Park. Built in 1880, Glenmont is a shining example of the American Queen-Anne style. It remains intact, complete with interior furnishings and finishes that reflect the rich historic decorative period during the years when Thomas Edison and his family resided in the home. The famous inventor became the second owner of the home in 1886, living out the rest of his years in Glenmont with his second wife, Mina Miller, until his death in 1931. Mina Miller resided at Glenmont until her death in 1947. She continued to make updates to some of the interior rooms of Glenmont during the 1930s and 1940s.

The majority of the work will be performed on-site at the Glenmont location inside of a private residential community, Llewellyn Park, located in West Orange, New Jersey. The historic Dining Room is located on the first floor of Glenmont and is accessed by travelling through a series of other fully furnished period rooms inside of the mansion.

Existing Conditions:

Park documentation suggests that the Dining Room maintains its original interior finishes from the 1935 decorating campaign. Minor alterations were made in isolated areas during the installation of upgraded wiring for its electrical fixtures in 1968. This wiring upgrade that was performed was not sensitive to the historic materials in the room and thus, has altered the appearance of the canvas field above the dado in select areas. In these areas the canvas was torn and the apple green paint color was touched up, using a color gradation that was not an appropriate match to the original color. Overall, the decorative trim, cornice, picture rail, and built-in elements in the room are in disrepair, with chips and scratches overall, flaking surface paint, and missing sections of gold striped trim. The gold accent trim is worn away in most sections and the existing motif no longer represents a uniform linear design throughout the room, which was originally intended.

An overall crazing of the historic apple green paint finish in the field wall above the paneled wainscot is evident throughout the Dining Room. The park has determined that the overall condition of this field area is stable and does not require conservation at this time. Eight specific areas of damage in the green field wall above the wainscot have been selected for repair as part of this contract because they detract from the overall aesthetic of the interior of this room. These eight areas are specifically identified in Section 4.0 of this document.

SOLICITATION REQUIREMENTS AND EVALUATION FACTORS:

Relevant Past Performance (required):

Submit evidence of comparable past work including a minimum of five years of experience conserving historic period interiors from the representative historic period (c. 1880-1940), demonstrating at least one example of the restoration of a gold trim decorative motif within one of the rooms, one example of conserving a historic paint finish on a wood surface (such as historic wainscot, a dado, a fireplace surround, historic baseboard, or a historic door frame) within one of the rooms, and one example of past work conserving a historic plaster cornice. Submit evidence of a minimum of three years of conservation training obtained through a degree program or a comparable period of apprenticeship with a reputable conservation services provider, and experience successfully executing two or more projects conserving historic interiors with decorative paint finishes within properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which are projects of similar scope, complexity, and historic resource value to that required by this solicitation. One of these projects must demonstrate work with historic paint analysis. Additionally, this qualified conservator must be considered the key personnel for this contract. This qualified conservator shall also have conservation experience in conformance with the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice (website address - http://www.conservation-us.org/docs/default-source/governance/code-of-ethics-and-guidelines-for-practice.pdf ).

Applicant must also demonstrate familiarity with the NPS conservation and preservation standards and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (See NPS Museum Handbook at https://www.doi.gov/museum/npshandbooks and https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm for more information).

Please include:

*Point of Contact (with verifiable telephone number and email address) *Company Name and Address *Company Telephone Number and Email Address (verifiable) *Identification of Historic Resource Treated *Brief Description of the Project with Illustrations which demonstrates similarity in scope and complexity to this project *Dates Work Was Performed

Cost proposal:

Provide an all-inclusive, itemized cost proposal for the project.

B. Pre-Proposal meeting:

All Proposers are strongly encouraged to visit the site in preparation for submitting a proposal. The Contractor must arrange a site visit at a date and time to be determined. Please contact Beth Miller should you plan to attend a site visit. Please bring your own ladder to inspect the wall treatment and related trim areas, cornice, picture rail, wainscot, and built-in elements of this room. Please note that the ladder must be safely navigated through areas of the historic interior of Glenmont in order to access the Dining Room. These areas contain built-in features, historic wall treatments, historic architectural features, historic artifacts, historic steps, narrow hallways, etc. These spacial constraints, which are indicative of a fully furnished Queen-Anne style Victorian home, must be safely navigated. Transport and use of ladder on park property during the site visit must occur without damage to adjacent historic objects and/or surfaces as well as without damage to the modern carpeting that defines the path of travel throughout the home’s interior. Any questions that a Proposer has regarding the project must be submitted in writing to the Contracting Officer assigned to this project no later than five days prior to the closing date for this solicitation.

Beth Miller Curator of Thomas Edison’s Home, Glenmont 973-809-4360

C. Limitations of Liability:

The Government assumes no responsibility and no liability for costs incurred by Proposers in responding to this solicitation.

D. Evaluation of Solicitation Proposals (Selection criteria):

Award of the contract to complete this project will be made on the basis of technical qualifications of the Proposer and on the basis of the Proposal offering the best value to the government with technical and price factor being approximately equal. Proposals will be evaluated based on the following Factors and Sub-factors:

Factor 1: Experience Contractor must possess a minimum of three years of conservation training obtained through a degree program or a comparable period of apprenticeship with a reputable conservation service, demonstrating object conservation experience in conformance with the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice (website address - http://www.conservation-us.org/docs/default-source/governance/code-of-ethics-and-guidelines-for-practice.pdf). Applicant must also demonstrate familiarity with the NPS conservation and preservation standards and the Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (See NPS Museum Handbook at https://www.doi.gov/museum/nps-handbooks and https://www.nps.gov/tps/standards.htm for more information).

Factor 2: Relevant Past Performance Submit evidence of comparable past work including a minimum of five years of experience conserving historic period interiors from the representative historic period (c. 1880-1940) within the past ten years, demonstrating at least one example of the restoration of a gold trim decorative motif within one of the rooms, one example of conserving a historic paint finish on a wood surface (such as historic wainscot, a dado, a fireplace surround, historic baseboard, or a historic door frame) within one of the rooms, and one example of past work conserving a historic plaster cornice. Submit evidence of experience successfully executing two or more projects conserving historic interiors with decorative paint finishes within properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which are which are projects of similar type, scope, involving artifacts of similar age and materials, configuration, complexity, significance, and historic resource value to that required by this solicitation. One of these projects must demonstrate work with historic paint analysis. Additionally, this qualified conservator must be considered the key personnel for this contract.

Please include:

*Point of Contact (with verifiable telephone number and email address) *Company Name and Address *Company Telephone Number and Email Address (verifiable) *Identification of Historic Resource Treated *Brief Description of the Project with Illustrations which demonstrates similarity in scope and complexity to this project *Dates Work Was Performed

Factor 3: Price Provide an all-inclusive, itemized cost proposal for the project. A price evaluation will be performed to determine the reasonableness of the proposed price. Reasonableness will be determined considering other competitive prices received and comparison to the Independent Government Estimate.

Any proposal containing suggestions, approaches, options, or ideas that do not conform with National Park Service, Secretary of Interior, and AIC conservation and preservation standards will be not be considered.

Background materials attached to the scope of work include a copy of Rules for Contractors in Historic Buildings (Attachment B) which identifies specific guidelines that must be followed by contractors when they work on-site. In general, no food, drink, or smoking is permitted within site work areas. Contractor must protect-in-place adjacent artifacts in immediate work areas and along the path of travel to and from the Dining Room (including historic floors, modern carpeting, glass front cabinets, etc.), refrain from storing project equipment on-site during the course of the project, and is responsible for purchasing all supplies related to the project. Contractor shall be responsible for removal of all trash debris on a daily basis.

1.2 HISTORIC BACKGROUND

The nationally significant home of America’s most prominent inventor was created by famed architect Henry Hudson Holly in the year 1880. A prime example of Holly’s work in the Queen-Anne style in the United States, the preserved Victorian mansion includes original Eastlake style and Aesthetic Movement style interiors installed by the renowned firm of Pottier & Stymus. The historic Dining Room in Thomas Edison’s home retains many of its original features, which date back to the 1880s. Updates to the room’s interior were also made over the years during the long span of time that the Edison family resided in Glenmont.

The Dining Room currently measures 16 feet by 37 feet and the wall treatment consists of a lower section of paneled wainscot and an upper section of plastered wall, above which are capped with a picture rail and a decorative cornice. The room includes several built-in features such as a sideboard, a glass front china cabinet, a corner cabinet, and a fireplace surround, most of which are neoclassical in design. The room also includes four ornate doorways. Most sources indicate that the types of wood used for the built-in features in the room are ash and mahogany. Regularly used by the Edison family, daughter Madeleine fondly recalls the Dining Room being the center gathering place for holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The room also hosted several high profile events such as the celebratory dinner when Thomas Edison received the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1928.

The interior of the Dining Room changed appearance many times during the Edison era. The room was completed in 1880-81 when the walls were finished with embossed wallpaper, likely installed by decorating firm Pottier & Stymus. And then the finishes in the room were altered again, circa 1884, with little known about the alterations. The room was enlarged in 1902 when it was remodeled by the firm of A.H. Davenport Co. who installed a “green stripe material” on the walls.

A 1904 historic bill in the park archives indicates that the Dining Room walls were altered once again as the bill details the firm’s work of “slip covering Dining Room walls with Taffeta”. It is unclear if this fabric was installed temporarily over the earlier green stripe fabric or if it replaced it altogether. Fabric still remained on the walls in 1924, as is verified in the residence appraisal for Glenmont from this year. The existing finishes in the room today date back to 1935, when Mina Edison undertook a renovation to this room after Thomas Edison’s death, with the assistance of interior decorator, Mrs. Renner.

The green and gold motif seen in the room today is present on the walls, woodwork, fireplace mantel, and built-in components. Currently, the doors and the floor retain a varnished finish. During the 1935 redecoration of the room, the wall fabric was removed and “all other woodwork including dado, door and window trim, mantel painted two coats, glazed, striped with gold and varnished”. On August 7, 1935, Mrs. Renner reported to Mina Edison, “I was at the house on Monday to see a finished sample for the color and guilding in the Dining Room…The color is beautiful and I am sure you are going to be pleased with it. Having the wood work and the built-in pieces of furniture the same color as the walls is the greatest possible improvement as it makes the room seem much better proportionately”.

The 1935 finishes installed in the room survive today and are identified in park museum records as a light blue-green color with a thin layer of varnish. The gold colored trim was identified as a silver-metallic bronzing powder on a red or green size with a varnish finish to give a “gold” appearance. Barbara Yocum, author of “The House at Glenmont: Home of Thomas Edison” (1995), examined the 1947 black and white photographs of the room and indicated in her report, “Certain details of the woodwork, such as the rosettes and moldings, are highlighted in a darker color”.

This conservation of the wall treatment and related trim elements, picture rail, cornice, and built-in features in the Edison Dining Room will assist the park in achieving their overall goal to preserve and protect Thomas Edison’s home, Glenmont, in order to provide opportunity for future generations to understand its decorative arts and architectural significance as well as its relationship to Thomas Edison and his private time spent at home. The decorative finishes in the Dining Room are character defining features of the mansion and will remain in-situ for public view and will also be maintained for academic study.

2.0 SCOPE

Project will include conservation of both the apple green paint finish and its corresponding gold trim, on the built-in features of the room (fireplace surround and overmantel, sideboard with low cabinets and drawer fronts and overmantel, glass front china cabinet and surround, telephone stand, corner cabinet), paneled wainscot, baseboard, cornice (may include plaster repair), picture rail, and any wood trim areas connecting these elements). Conservator will also complete the conservation of the green and gold finishes on two window frames and their surrounds, four door frames and their surrounds, one decorative wooden archway, and the frame of a pair of glass front doors. One repair on the corner of the Butler’s Pantry doorframe must be executed. Project will also include the conservation of select areas of the canvas field above the paneled wainscot, which will specifically be identified in section 4.0 of this document.

Conservator will complete a treatment report and a Historic Paint Analysis Report for the conservation of this historic interior (described in Section 5.3 below). Conservator will also be responsible for obtaining pre-approval by NPS staff for selected repair techniques and for anticipated results of any finish work associated with the project that could alter the room interior’s appearance.

Project shall also include historic paint analysis to ensure any required in-painting or reapplication of the worn gold trim is an appropriate color match and finish to the original finish. Project shall also include producing a treatment report for the work performed in the room, complete with before and after photos. Documentation work, such as generating the reports, or conducting related research, may take place off-site in the conservator’s studio.

On-site work will consist of temporarily installing any equipment or scaffolding required to complete the conservation, protecting-in-place objects and surfaces as required, the conservation work itself, conducting the historic paint analysis, taking before and after photos of each conserved element as identified in the first paragraph in Section 2.0 of this document, and also the de-installation and removal of all associated project protect-in-place measures and equipment from the site when the on-site work is completed.

Off-site work will include portions of the historic paint analysis and producing the completed treatment report, with photo documentation for each element of the room that was conserved, as identified in the first paragraph in Section 2.0 of this document. Off-site work will also include producing the Historic Paint Analysis Report.

For the purposes of this project, no portion or part of the wall treatment or its related trim elements, door or window frames, cornice, picture rail, or built-in features shall be moved, lifted, shifted, unadhered, adjusted, disassembled, opened, or dismantled in any way, either fully or partially, in order to perform any of the associated work during the course of this project. This includes during the site visit for the project as part of the bidding process.

1. OBJECTIVES

The goal is to conserve the failing wall treatment, cornice, picture rail, built-in units, wainscot, door frames, window frames, baseboard, a decorative archway, and all associated trim finishes as well as select areas of the canvas field as identified in Section 4.0 of this document to their 1935 appearance in the historic Dining Room on the first floor of Thomas Edison’s Victorian home, Glenmont. Results of the project will assist the park in preserving the interiors of Glenmont, a goal which is identified in the park’s enabling legislation and is further emphasized in the park’s current Foundation document. Project will contribute to improving the overall stability, appearance, and preservation of this significant decorative interior, enabling the park to continue to accurately represent the original exterior of Thomas Edison’s home, Glenmont, for study by scholars and for viewing by the visiting public. The end products, namely the treatment report and the Historic Paint Analysis Report, will enable the park to improve the documentation of this room as well as help the park prepare for future related conservation projects.

4.0 TASKS

4.1 A qualified conservator will complete conservation of the historic finishes, both the apple green paint finish and its corresponding gold trim, on the built-in features of the room (fireplace surround and overmantel, sideboard with low cabinets and drawer fronts and overmantel, glass front china cabinet and surround, telephone stand, corner cabinet), paneled wainscot, baseboard, cornice (may include plaster repair), picture rail, and any wood trim areas connecting these elements. Conservator will also complete the conservation of the green and gold finishes on two window frames and their surrounds, four door frames and their surrounds, one decorative wooden archway, and the frame of a pair of glass front doors. One repair on the corner of the Butler’s Pantry doorframe must be executed. Project will also include the conservation of select areas of the canvas field above the paneled wainscot, which will specifically be identified in Section 4.0 of this document.

Additionally, the Conservator will produce a historic paint analysis for a minimum of five different areas of the room’s green and gold finishes (5 each) in order to ensure that paint colors and finishes chosen for in-painting are reflective of the original 1935 finishes in the room, using like materials and methods to complete the work. Conservator will produce a Historic Paint Analysis Report detailing the findings. Conservator will also produce a treatment report for conservation work which identifies specific treatment methods for each element or object conserved, as they are identified above in the previous paragraph.

On-site work will include the conservation of the of the historic finishes, both the apple green paint finish and its corresponding gold trim, on the built-in features of the room (fireplace surround and overmantel, sideboard with low cabinets and drawer fronts and overmantel, glass front china cabinet and surround, telephone stand, corner cabinet), paneled wainscot, baseboard, cornice (may include plaster repair), picture rail, any wood trim areas connecting these elements, two window frames and their surrounds, four door frames and their surrounds with the repair of one failing mitered corner, conservation of the finishes of one decorative wood archway, and the frame of a pair of glass front doors. Conservator will also be responsible for conserving the finish and canvas in 8 select areas on the plastered field wall above the paneled wainscot. These 8 select areas are specifically identified in this document section.

Conservation issues to address for finishes include cleaning of existing finishes as well as addressing scratches, chips, dents, fragmented areas, flaking paint, and also in-painting in areas of losses (worn or missing) for both finishes (ie apple green finish and gold trim elements). Work may also include plaster repair on the historic cornice. In these circumstances, the park advocates using the least invasive methods to complete the work while maintaining safety and preservation standards.

On-site work will also include portions of the historic paint analysis and installation and de-installation of related project equipment as well as installation and de-installation of the identified protect-in-place measures (installed immediately adjacent to the areas where work will be performed and in areas along the path of travel, which will be used to exit and enter the historic home), and the conservation work itself, as identified as tasks in this section of the document. Selected vendor will also take before and after photos of each aspect of their conservation work, which will be included in their final treatment report.

Other documentation work, such as generating the completed treatment report and producing the Historic Paint Analysis Report, may take place off-site in the conservator’s studio.

Conserving the finish and canvas in 8 select areas on the plastered canvas field wall above the paneled wainscot:

•1 and 2: Address white areas in disrepair surrounding bases of two historic wall sconces

•Area 3: Address in-painting with inappropriate color match next to sensor by Butler’s Pantry door and white nick in canvas above

• Area 4: Address canvas seam releasing above Butler’s Pantry door frame

• Area 5 and 6: Address two cracks adjacent to sideboard in area above sideboard (one above right pilaster and one to its immediate left)

• Area 7: Address white canvas nick and vertical seam crack in area below fixture by Den

• Area 8: Address cracked and failing area where main door frame joins wall (on left when facing Reception Hall)

For the purposes of this project, no portion or part of the wall treatment or its related trim elements, door or window frames, cornice, picture rail, or built-in features shall be moved, lifted, shifted, unadhered, adjusted, disassembled, opened, or dismantled in any way, either fully or partially, in order to perform any of the associated work during the course of this project. This project requirement also applies to tasks completed during any investigative work or analysis the potential bidder receives permission to perform as well as during the site visit for the project as part of the bidding process. Any proposal containing suggestions, approaches, options, or ideas that do not conform with the above stated information in this paragraph will not be considered.

4.2 The historic 1935 interior of the Glenmont Dining Room shall be conserved, successfully completing the specific tasks identified in Section 4.0 of this document. The historic Dining Room is located within a fully furnished Victorian mansion which dates back to the year 1880. Selected contractor will be required to successfully navigate historic pathways and steps, narrow hallways, low ceilings, historic architectural features such as balustrades and decorative wood work, glass front cabinets, historic artifacts, historic floors, etc. without causing any damage to these objects or finishes. Contractor is strongly encouraged to make an appointment for an on-site viewing of the property and the room in order to form a logistical plan for access prior to bidding.

Contractor must refrain from storing project equipment on-site during the course of the project, and is responsible for purchasing all supplies related to the project.

4.3 All contracting work shall be performed in accordance with National Park Service Museum Standards and American Institute for Conservation Standards. Any proposal containing suggestions, approaches, options, or ideas that do not conform with National Park Service and AIC conservation and preservation standards will not be considered. Conservator will use appropriate museum techniques and approved materials, adhering to appropriate safety, preservation, and security guidelines, as identified in this document, in order to perform this work.

4.4 The conservator is required to present a certificate of insurance in the coverage amount of $100,000 including coverage for when the contractor is completing installation and de-installation of equipment and supplies on-site and while performing on-site conservation work of the interior of the Glenmont Dining Room and its related historic paint analysis.

4.5 Contractor must ensure that they provide sufficient labor (ie number of individuals required) to safely complete all aspects of this work as per OSHA guidelines.

4.6 If scaffolding, ladders, lifts, or similar equipment is chosen for this project, equipment must be designed to accommodate the weight of the workers, supplies, etc. associated with the project. Contractor is responsible for following the OSHA guidelines for any equipment they use for this project, as well as the manufacturer’s guidelines, and is responsible for proper assembly of equipment used for this project.

4.7 Contractor is responsible for any damage that occurs during the course of their work while working on site, including but not limited to, damage to the interior of the Glenmont Dining Room, damage to other historic artifacts, damage to historic finishes or architectural features or floors, damage to modern carpeting, or damage to any building systems or estate areas. This includes during the time of transport, installation, and de-installation of the scaffolding or any other project equipment.

4.8 Background materials attached to the scope of work include a copy of Rules for Contractors in Historic Buildings (Attachment B) which identifies specific guidelines that must be followed by contractors when they work on-site. In general, no food, drink, or smoking is permitted within site work areas. Contractor shall be responsible for removal of all trash debris on a daily basis.

Please note that, on some days, the grounds of Glenmont and the interior of the home may be open to the public. On the days that the grounds are open to the public, the contractor must take appropriate safety measures to ensure the safety of the visitors. This includes not blocking the main paths of travel or foot traffic areas, using barriers to delineate work areas so the public cannot access them, and refraining from driving vehicles on the grounds when they are open to visitors and volunteers.

5.0 DELIVERY

5.1 The work of this section consists of submittal requirements before start of work.

A. Within ten days of the award and prior to the commencement of on-site work, a Certificate of Insurance must be provided to the NPS.

Pre-start meeting – Within 30 days of award, contractor will contact COR to discuss project and work schedule. Conservator will be required to submit an NPS approved health and safety work plan within 10 days after the award. In this plan the contractor must address how they will adhere to CDC guidance related to COVID-19 in the work place while working on-site at the Glenmont estate. The manual “Guidance on Preparing Work Places for COVID-19” (OSHA 3990-03 2020) is attached to this solicitation for the bidder’s reference.

Within 10 days after the award, conservator will also be required to submit an NPS approved Protect-In-Place plan detailing how walkways, carpeting, built-in cabinets, floors, adjacent furniture, architectural features, adjacent artifacts, etc. will be protected in place by the contractor, identifying specific techniques and materials to be used.

5.2 During work progress the Contractor shall furnish upon request:

A. Daily report detailing work attempted or accomplished

5.3 At the conclusion of the contract the Contractor shall provide the following:

A. The contractor must produce a treatment report for the conserved Dining Room documenting the treatment of both the apple green paint finish and its corresponding gold trim, on the built-in features of the room (fireplace surround and overmantel, sideboard with low cabinets and drawer fronts and overmantel, glass front china cabinet and surround, telephone stand, corner cabinet), paneled wainscot, baseboard, cornice, picture rail, and any wood trim areas connecting these elements), two window frames and their surrounds, four door frames and their surrounds, one decorative wooden archway, and the frame of one pair of glass front doors. The treatment report will also include details of the conservation of the select areas on the canvas field above the paneled wainscot. Report will also include before and after color photos of each of the elements identified above. The contractor will provide the following completion documents to the COR:

1. two paper copies of each report on 8 1/2 x 11 paper with color photographs, and

2. one electronic copy of each report in PDF format on CD or flash drive.

B. The contractor must also produce a Historic Paint Analysis Report for the interior of the Dining Room which includes analysis of both the apple green and the gold trim finishes. Report must include test sample results taken from five different areas for each finish in various parts of the room. Both the analysis data and a summary report of its findings must be included in the completed Historic Paint Analysis Report. The contractor will provide the following completion documents to the COR:

1. two paper copies of each report on 8 1/2 x 11 paper with color photographs, and

2. one electronic copy of each report in PDF format on CD or flash drive.

5.4 Submit all delivery requirements to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

6.0 GOVERNMENT-FURNISHED PROPERTY

6.1 The government will not provide any materials, equipment (including scaffolding or transport of scaffolding), or labor for this project. Please take note that the government will not provide a ladder for this project which includes during any on-site visits for potential bidders. The government will not provide any tools to complete the work. A power source will be provided on-site by the NPS during scheduled work hours.

6.2 The contractor is responsible for the cost and acquisition of all project related materials, labor, and services necessary to complete the work of this contract. All related project expenses are the responsibility of the contractor.

6.3 The government will provide a water source during scheduled work hours.

7.0 SAFETY AND SECURITY

Contractors and their team shall be escorted at all times by a National Park Service staff member while they are working on-site. Backpacks and bags are subject to inspection. Contractor team members may be required to wear an identification badge while on-site and use a sign in sheet to log their on-site hours. Contractor will be required to submit a roster supplying the names of participating team members prior to the start of any on-site work. Parking location is subject to security issues and will be handled on a case by case basis.

Contractor will be required to submit an NPS approved health and safety work plan. Plan will detail steps taken by the contractor to avoid damage to Glenmont artifacts and historic features as well as steps taken to reduce the incident of accident or injury during the course of the project to project personnel as well as well as steps taken to reduce the incident of accident or injury during the course of the project for park staff and volunteers, the contracting team, and the visiting public. Plan must outline all equipment and materials used for the project and their related safety features or properties as well as any special safety requirements identified on their Safety Data Sheets (SDS sheets will also be submitted by the contractor with the plan). Please note that the park strictly adheres to guidelines specified in Safety Data Sheets for on-site work as part of the park’s safety protocol. It is important to note that there is limited ventilation inside of Glenmont. Also, any required PPE must have up-to-date certification and an up-to-date fit test if required for on-site work. Please note that any materials (including dirty rinsing water) used by the contractor cannot be disposed of in the historic sinks inside of Glenmont.

In the health and safety work plan, the contractor must also address how they will adhere to CDC guidance related to COVID-19 in the work place while working on-site at the Glenmont estate. The manual “Guidance on Preparing Work Places for COVID-19” (OSHA 3990-03 2020) is attached to this solicitation for the bidder’s reference. Please note that the contracting team may be required to wear appropriate PPE, (ie mask and gloves that meet the current CDC recommendations for reducing the risk of COVID-19 disease transmission), will be required to execute the appropriate disposal of PPE (as per CDC guidelines), may be required to sanitize their work equipment and work areas (ie scaffolding, etc.), will be required to maintain social distancing, etc. to reduce the risk of disease transmission while working on site, if so dictated by New Jersey state and/or CDC guidelines for managing COVID-19 in the workplace. These guidelines are continually being updated and will change over time.

Contractor must ensure that they provide sufficient labor (ie number of individuals required) to safely complete all aspects of this work as per OSHA guidelines. If scaffolding or similar equipment is chosen for this project, contractor must verify that the scaffold is the correct type for the loads, materials, and employees required for this project. Footings must be sound and capable of supporting loads. Equipment components must be free of bends, cracks, rust, holes, broken welds, or any other damage that could affect the effectiveness of the equipment. These determinations must be made by a competent person. A competent person is defined as “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions, which are unsanitary, hazardous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them”. Contractor is responsible for following the OSHA scaffold regulations (such as 1926.451) for said equipment and is responsible for proper assembly of equipment used for this project. Scaffolding must be equipped with toerails, midrails, and guardrails, adhering to OSHA standards.

The offeror’s equipment, tools, and supplies must be of a size and configuration capable of safely accommodating such work, and must be equipped with the necessary fire and safety capabilities. Selected vendor must provide a form of egress in the event of fire during the course of the project.

Please note that hot work, including use of heat guns, tacking irons, or other heat generating equipment, requires advanced NPS approval and is governed by park safety policies and related hot work and fire watch procedures which shall be followed during the course of the project. These procedures are further detailed in Attachment C of this document. If hot work is part of your approach or methodology, bidder shall detail this work in their bidding proposal.

For safety, security, and preservation reasons, family, friends, or pets are not permitted to accompany the contractor’s staff to the job site at Thomas Edison’s home, Glenmont. This includes, but is not limited to, underage children. The park reserves the right to request that the contractor produce documentation for any person on-site which provides evidence that they are legitimate and approved project personnel assigned to work on the project.

8.0 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

8.1 LOCATIONS

A. On-site work will be completed at the following location inside Thomas Edison National Historical Park:

1. Pick up, delivery, and on-site work will be completed at Glenmont, Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Llewellyn Park, 12 Honeysuckle Avenue, West Orange, New Jersey. Conservator and their team must deliver, install, and de-install any scaffolding or associated equipment used for the project by appointment only. Work will take place in the original Edison Dining Room on the first floor of Glenmont. Please note that navigating steps is required to complete any transport process.

Special attention must also be paid to not damage historic objects and surfaces adjacent to the work site in the fully furnished exhibit rooms as well as navigating narrow corridors that feature historic finishes and glass front cabinets.

2. On-site work/pick up/drop off/packing may only be done between the hours of 8:00 am and 3:30 pm, Monday through Thursday, excluding holidays. On-site work is subject to weather conditions, other state of emergency conditions, or government shutdown. Access by appointment only.

9.0 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The contractor shall be required to commence work under this contract within 10 calendar days after the date of the award to the contractor, execute the work diligently and complete the entire project within an eight month timeframe which begins on the date of award.

Within 10 calendar days after award, submit Certificate of Liability Insurance for on-site conservation work as well as the NPS approved health and safety work plan. Within 10 days after the award, conservator will also be required to submit an NPS approved Protect-In-Place plan detailing how walkways, carpeting, built-in cabinets, floors, adjacent furniture, architectural features, etc. will be protected in place by the contractor, identifying specific techniques and materials to be used. Within 30 calendar days after date of award, contact COR to discuss project and schedule for on-site work.

Upon completion of contract, the contractor shall submit two final paper copies and one electronic copy of the project treatment report as well as two final copies and one electronic copy of the Historic Paint Analysis Report, with the information specified in this document, to the COR and must have removed all associated supplies and equipment from on-site locations.

10.0 PAYMENT SCHEDULE

PAYMENT SCHEDULE:

A. Upon completion of fifty percent of the on-site conservation work in the Glenmont Dining Room and completion of the on-site portion of the historic paint analysis (50 %)

B. Upon completion of all on-site conservation work of the Dining Room interior in Glenmont, removal of all associated project equipment and materials, and submission and acceptance of the final treatment report and the Historic Paint Analysis Report (50 %)

Attachment A

Modern image of Thomas Edison’s home,Glenmont

Modern photo of the Edison Dining Room

Modern photo of the Edison Dining Room

1947 photo of the Edison Dining Room

Modern photo of the corner cabinet in the Edison Dining Room

Modern photo of the fireplace in the Edison Dining Room

Modern photo of deterioration of the finishes on the fireplace

Modern photo of the built-in china cabinet in the Edison Dining Room

Modern photos of built-in china cabinet features in Edison Dining Room

Modern images of the paneled wainscot in the Edison Dining Room

Modern image of the sideboard in the Edison Dining Room

Modern images of features of the Dining Room sideboard

Modern photos of door frame features in the Edison Dining Room

Attachment B

RULES FOR CONTRACTORS IN HISTORIC BUILDINGS

Food, drink, or gum chewing are not permitted in the historic buildings. Debris and staining left behind can permanently damage museum objects. Smoking is not permitted. Do not attempt to move or touch anything in the museum. Museum objects are too weak for functional use. We do not use historic sinks, bathrooms, ladders, chairs, or tables. Alternate work hours are subject to approval. Please review your daily work plans at your morning meeting with the assigned NPS staff member.

Any alteration to a historic structure such as a hole, insertion of a nail or bracket, an alteration of a trim or surface must first be approved by the NPS to ensure compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act.

Protective barriers must be used between your equipment and museum surfaces. Clean blankets and plastic must protect the historic interiors from scratching, dents, and liquid spills. Surfaces of museum objects should not be used for storing tools. Protective barriers in doorways and on floor surfaces must be used to protect plaster or dust from entering into non-work areas.

Tours and museum staff may be entering into your work area. Do not block doorways or emergency exits with your equipment or supplies. Do not set up equipment near fragile objects.

No open flames are permitted in any of the buildings or on the grounds. If you plan to use any equipment that emits heat or creates a spark, you must receive ADVANCED PERMISSION from the NPS. These include use of heat guns, stripping guns, electrical drying tools, heaters, and welding torches. Procedures for hot work are strictly enforced. Work occurring in close proximity to a fire detector or sprinkler pipe that generates heat, dust or debris requires advanced notice in order to prevent accidental activation.

Chemicals and other flammable materials, such as those containing butane or alcohol, cannot be left overnight in the historic buildings and must be stored in a designated safety zone during work hours. MSDS sheets are required for on-site chemicals. Rags must be stored in regulation non-combustible fire canisters. Unless advanced arrangements are made, trash must be removed at the end of each work day.

Electrical service is limited in historic buildings. Arrangements must be made in advance to use electrical equipment. Electrical equipment must be in satisfactory shape, including no use of frayed or damaged extension cords. Do not leave construction lights or equipment on or plugged in while unattended.

A National Park Service employee must escort you at all times when in the buildings. This is a standard policy that applies to all guests and visitors at the site. Please notify the NPS of any injuries or safety issues that arise during your work day.

Have your fire extinguisher handy and know your emergency exits in case of an emergency. Follow instructions from NPS staff when an alarm sounds.

Parking is limited. Consult the NPS for guidelines.

Attachment C

Thomas Edison NHP Hot Work/Fire Watch Procedures Hot Work - The use of an open flame or welding torch anywhere in or near a building.

Fire Watch - The two-hour time frame after the open flame has been extinguished.

Prior to any flame or welding torch being turned on, make sure:

· A hot work/open flame permit form is completed and signed by NPS and contractor.

· NPS will temporarily disable the fire alarm/sprinkler system as needed for the area.

· Contractor will provide at least 2 fully charged portable fire extinguishers.

· Contractor will protect surrounding area with fire blankets or other non-flammable material.

· Both NPS and Contractor will provide at least one person as a Designated Fire Watch Person.

During Hot Work:

· Confirm that above permit conditions have been met.

· NPS staff should have a park radio.

· Know where the next available fire extinguisher is located.

· Confirm that the Contractor Designated Fire Watch Person is in place.

· Find out exactly what pipes/metal is being soldered or welded. Be aware of any smoke/heat or sparks that may come out at the opposite end of the pipe or below the flame. Is area protected?

· Find a location where you can observe the hot work/open flame and the Contractors Designated Fire Watch Person safely and without getting in the way.

· If welding, do not look directly at the flame. Wear welding glasses.

· During the time the flame or torch is turned on, watch where the flame goes at all times. Be aware of any sparks or drips from soldering material.

· Note the time that the flame is turned off. Report time to the Gatehouse. The NPS and Contractor Designated Fire Watch Persons must remain in place for two hours.

Fire Watch:

· The NPS and Contractor Designated Fire Watch Persons must remain in place for two hours.

· Check the area and make sure there are no visible signs of smoke. Do not touch the hot pipes!

· Every few minutes, check the area and adjacent areas for any signs of smoke.

· At the end of the two-hour fire watch check the area again. Make sure the surrounding floor, walls, ceiling, etc. are cool to the touch.

· Report time to the Gatehouse.

If the two-hour fire watch is not yet over, and the crew wants to go to lunch, or take a break, everyone can go except the NPS and Contractor Designated Fire Watch Persons. When the two-hours are completed and the area appears to be ok, the Fire Watch Persons may leave. If the other contractors come back from break or lunch, and the Contractor Designated Fire Watch Person has gone to lunch, a new Contractor Designated Fire Watch Person must be assigned.

At the end of the last two-hour fire watch of the day, make sure that the fire alarm panel is re-connected and put back in service before the contractor leaves.

Glossary Hot Work - The use of an open flame anywhere in or near a building. Currently, the primary hot work is soldering, using an acetylene torch.

Hot Work Area - A 4' to 6' area around the open flame. This includes ceiling, floor and walls.