Response to Prebid RFIs 36C78626B0003 for 894CM3044 Gravesite Expansion at Fort Snelling NC.pdf

Prebid RFIs and Responses

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 36C78626B0003

PROJECT TITLE: 894CM3044 Gravesite Expansion at Fort Snelling National Cemetery

Question 1 Competent Person (CP) Certification Requirements The specifications state that prior to commencing work, the general contractor shall provide proof that an OSHA-certified “Competent Person” (CP) in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2) will maintain a presence at the work site whenever the general contractor or subcontractors are present.

Please clarify the certification and training requirements for the designated Competent Person.

Specifically:

1. Is the Competent Person required only to hold OSHA-recognized competent person training for applicable high-hazard operations (such as fall protection, excavation, etc.), or is OSHA 30-hour construction safety training also required?

2. As the specification does not explicitly reference OSHA 30-hour training, please confirm whether this certification is required for the CP or other supervisory personnel.

3. Please confirm whether this project will be governed solely by OSHA standards (29 CFR 1926) or if compliance with EM 385-1-1 will also be required.

Clarification of these requirements will assist in confirming appropriate safety staffing and training compliance for the project.

Answer 1

The Competent Person is only required to hold OSHA-recognized competent person training.

OSHA 30-hour is typical for construction supervisors.

Question 2 Clarification of Delegated Design Intent for Precast Columbarium Units.

Subject: Clarification of delegated design criteria and status of depicted columbarium details.

Specification Section 03 48 24 identifies the precast concrete columbarium units as a delegated design and requires the Contractor to provide stamped structural design and calculations for the units and associated connections. However, Section 1.1.B states that acceptable designs of the columbarium unit components are provided on the drawings and may be used by the Contractor, while the drawing notes require the Contractor to provide structural design of the units and connections.

Please clarify whether the columbarium geometry and connection arrangements depicted in the Contract Documents are intended to establish design intent and performance criteria only, or whether they are prescriptive details that must be followed and verified by the Contractor’s delegated engineer.

Additionally, please confirm whether the columbarium configuration and connection concepts depicted in the drawings have been evaluated by the Engineer of Record and determined to be structurally adequate to meet the loading requirements identified in the specifications and applicable codes.

For purposes of preparing a bid, please also confirm that bidders may reasonably rely on the geometry and connection concepts depicted in the Contract Documents as constructible and sufficient to support the specified loads, and that the delegated design is intended to finalize member sizing, reinforcement, and connection detailing consistent with those criteria.

Finally, please clarify whether refinements recommended by the Contractor’s specialty engineer to address code compliance, seismic demands, fabrication constraints, or connection detailing are considered normal delegated-design development, or whether deviations from the depicted details would require revision to the Contract Documents.

Requested Response:

1. Confirm whether the drawings represent design-intent/performance criteria or prescriptive mandatory details.

2. Confirm whether the depicted configuration and connections have been evaluated by the Engineer of Record for structural adequacy relative to the specified loads.

3. Clarify the allowable extent of delegated-design refinement without constituting a change to the contract documents.

Answer 2

1. The columbarium is to be constructed as design plans indicate; the contractor shall determine means and methods. The Precast Columbarium Niche Units and structural anchorage is a delegated design item for the contractor. The columbarium details shown in the drawings are intended to establish the design intent, overall geometry, loading criteria, and connection concept for the precast columbarium units. The contractor’s delegated specialty engineer is responsible for completing the final structural design of the precast units and associated connections, including member sizing, reinforcement, embedment, and detailed connection design, in accordance with the requirements of specification section 03 48 24, the contract documents, and applicable codes.

Typically, Precast Columbarium Niche Unit manufacturers will provide the required delegated design documents for this purpose.

2. The Columbarium has been designed and signed by the DOR/EOR. The depicted configuration and connection concepts have been evaluated by the Engineer of Record as the basis of design for structural adequacy relative to the specified loads and applicable code criteria.

3. Only the Columbarium Precast Niche Units and weld plate/anchoring are delegated design with an engineer stamp licensed in the state of construction; all other design components are as specified in the plan. The contractor is responsible for the means and methods.

Question 3 Will the sign-in sheet from site visit be available in addendum?

Answer 3 Yes, see attached site visit attendance sheet.

Question 4 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO?

Answer 4

The superintendent may cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC based on their ability to manage and perform multiple roles and responsibilities. The Government holds the right to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 5 If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project?

Answer 5

See answer 4.

Question 6 Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC?

Answer 6

The superintendent may cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC based on their ability to manage and perform multiple roles and responsibilities. The Government holds the right to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 7 If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

Answer 7

See answer 6.

Question 8 Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC?

Answer 8 The superintendent may cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC based on their ability to manage and perform multiple roles and responsibilities. The Government holds the right to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 9 Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?

Answer 9 The project is not tax exempt. The bid amount must include all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes. Also reference FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

Question 10 Who is responsible for contracting the commissioning agent, if required?

Answer 10

Commissioning not in contract.

Question 11 Will shutdowns be required to be done during off hours or weekends?

Answer 11

Normal work hours are within cemetery operating hours, which are 7:30am to 4:00pm.

Coordination with the Cemetery staff and COR is required for work outside of those hours and weekend work. Cemetery requires a minimum 48-hour notification prior to any utility outage.

Question 12 Who is the vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Irrigation System?

Answer 12

The servicing and maintenance of the irrigation systems at Fort Snelling National Cemetery are completed by Fort Snelling National Cemetery staff (in-house).

Question 13 With regards to underground utility work how much open trenching be allowed at a time?

Answer 13

Trenching work shall be limited to what can be opened and closed within the workday where practical.

Question 14 After backfilling, topsoil and seed have been applied who is responsible for watering? Would the permanent irrigation system be considered acceptable for this requirement?

Answer 14

Cemetery-provided water is available to the Contractor. Contractor is responsible for establishing the vegetation to the plans and specifications requirement up to acceptance of the work by the VA.

Areas where vegetation are to be established have irrigation system work as well – provided this work is accepted by the VA, and the COR and Cemetery are in agreement to allow irrigation system use for watering, this would be allowed.

Question 15 On all underground utility work please confirm if excavated material is acceptable for re-use as backfill?

Answer 15

Excavated material is not assumed suitable for reuse at the columbaria. Per the geotechnical report, existing fill is uncontrolled and not suitable for support of foundations and slabs. Existing fill below the columbaria shall be removed and replaced with approved structural fill. Reuse of on-site material is only permitted if it is clean, meets structural fill requirements, and is approved by the geotechnical engineer. Refer to the geotechnical report for full requirements related to subgrade preparation and acceptable fill materials.

Question 16 Please confirm if all excess fill materials will be allowed to stay on property or shall be hauled offsite?

Answer 16

Contractor may store excess fill material on or off site. Contractor shall coordinate storage areas with COR and Cemetery staff approval. Storage area is approximately 0.35 miles away from construction sites, and would be relocated at Contractor expense.

Question 17 Please confirm if there is a separate staging area onsite for fill material to be stockpiled for re-use?

Answer 17

Staging areas are outlined in the construction documents. Any additional areas requested for use must obtain permission from the cemetery staff and COR. Site safety is of paramount importance and will govern where and for how long fill materials may be stockpiled. Storage area is approximately 0.35 miles away from construction sites, and would be relocated at Contractor expense.

Question 18 Please confirm if an onsite arborist is required for any tree removal or tree protection?

Answer 18 An arborist is required for tree removal and tree protection as outlined in specification 32 90 00.

Question 19 Please advise if the site contains any contaminated soil that needs to be removed.

Answer 19

There is no known contaminated soil in project work areas.

Question 20 If the underground site package requires removal of contaminated soils. Will the site contractor be required to have operators trained and certified in all various levels of contamination handling?

Answer 20

Question 21 Will all contaminated soils be delivered to a location on site, turned over to Owner for disposal?

Answer 21

Question 22 What are the requirements by the site contractor for the storage of contaminated soil on site?

Answer 22

Question 23 Please confirm if we will be allowed to keep a locked storage container or conex box within the grounds.

Answer 23

Contractor is allowed to place conex box in relevant close proximity in staging area approximately .25 miles away. The Contractor may also secure a conex within the work site/behind the construction fence on Section 19, if preferred. The Government is not responsible in any way for security of the storage unit/conex placed on Government property.

Question 24 To allow sufficient time to review responses and prepare our bid we kindly request that you please extend the bid date.

Answer 24 Yes. Bid date extended to April 15, 2026.

Question 25 Solicitation – Period of Performance 270 days for a project located in Minneapolis does not seem like properly allocated time for performance, please confirm this is accurate time and not oversight

Answer 25 Yes. Period of Performance is 270 days.

Question 26 Schedule Please provide estimate for award and notice to proceed to build schedule

Answer 26 The award will be made by mid-May 2026 if possible and notice to proceed will be issued when the awardee submits their Payment and Performance Bond, and all parties are available for a preconstruction meeting.

Question 27 Solicitation statement of work. A.3 Other Requirements A3. Other Requirements.1. contractor shall secure all necessary permits – please confirm given the footprint / size of project that stormwater permit is required?

Answer 27

NPDES permit is anticipated to be required based on disturbance limit to control erosion.

Question 28 Solicitation statement of work. A.3 Other Requirements Solicitation.A.3 Other Requirements – calls out two (2) copies of Operation and Maintenance Manuals, whereas 01 00 02- 1.24 Instructions, calls out four (4) copies – which is to be followed?

Answer 28

Solicitation document to govern – two (2) copies to be provided.

Question 29 01 33 23- 1.3 Submittal Register. D.

01 33 23- 1.3 Submittal Register. D. – blank digital register provided for use below (link does not work) – please provide

Answer 29

The submittal register is available in the solicitation.

Question 30 01 33 23 What program will be used for submittal / RFI / correspondence? Please confirm Procore may be used and accessed by all.

Answer 30

Contractor is responsible for determining what platform to use for submittal / RFI / correspondence. Procore is an acceptable option.

Question 31 01 43 39 Can mock-up be performed in-situ to include columbaria wall and plaza?

Answer 31 Mock-up shall be independent, not in situ.

Question 32 01 81 13 Sustainable Construction Requirements 01 81 13 Sustainable Construction Requirements – confirm this is to be followed, if not, please strike in all instances in SPEC, repeats several times over.

Answer 32

Refer to revised spec sections included in Addendum #1.

Question 33 What are the staffing requirements?

Answer 33

Refer to contract documents and specifications.

Question 34 As there is no spec on trailer or information – it is assumed (please confirm) VA/ AE/ CMs will not maintain everyday presence – how often will above visit site and be available?

Answer 34

No Government trailer is to be provided. Daily site inspections will be performed independently from the Contractor and under separate contract.

Question 35 02 21 13 vs. 01 00 02 01 00 02 Survey and 02 21 13 – 1.4 Quality Assurance are in discrepancy on requirements of Land Surveyor – which is to be followed, do they or do they not valid state license in the state where the project is located?

Answer 35

Land Surveyors are required to be licensed in the state where the project is located.

Question 36 02 41 00 Demolition – 1.2 Related Work 02 41 00 Demolition – 1.2 Related Work – SPECs called out in related work are not provided in project bid docs, please clarify what is or not to be used and followed or provide.

Answer 36

Refer to revised spec sections included in Addendum #1.

Question 37 04 43 00 – Mock-Up 01 43 39 and 04 43 00 both have mock-up requirements – which is to be followed?

Answer 37 01 43 39 outlines general mock-up requirements and procedures. 04 43 00 details mock-up requirements specific to 04 43 00 elements. 04 43 00 specification is to be followed when in conflict with 01 43 39 on elements contained within 04 43 00 specification.

Question 38 04 43 00 – Limestone Limestone is not being called out to be sealed, confirm the limestone does not need lifetime sealer applied.

Answer 38 Limestone will need to be sealed.

Question 39 09 06 00 Schedule of Finishes 09 06 00 Schedule of Finishes – referenced multiple times over in SPECs, not provided – please provide

Answer 39 Finishes are indicated on plans and individual sections specifications. References to 09 06 00 are removed from Addendum #1 Construction Specifications.

Question 40 General ALL SPECs related work sections are not accurate to SPECs provided in bid docs, how is this going to be documented in final conformance docs?

Answer 40

See Addendum #1 for revised Construction Specifications.

Question 41 03 30 53 and Drawing S-001 03 30 53 and Drawing S-001 – cast in place compressive strength in SPEC vs. Drawing are in conflict – which is to be followed?

Answer 41

Provide concrete with a minimum compressive strength at 28 days of 4,000 psi. Specification 03 30 53 Section 2.3.B and Structural Drawing S-001 are consistent in requiring a minimum 28-day compressive strength of 4,000 psi for footings, exterior foundation walls, and piers.

Question 42 Drawing S-001 Columbarium is listed as Delegate Design with Engineer stamp licensed in the state of construction – confirm this to be accurate?

Answer 42 Columbarium precast unit and anchorage/weld plates are delegated design. The Precast Columbarium Niche Units and structural anchorage is a delegated design item for the contractor.

The columbarium details shown in the drawings are intended to establish the design intent, overall geometry, loading criteria, and connection concept for the precast columbarium units. The contractor’s delegated specialty engineer is responsible for completing the final structural design of the precast units and associated connections, including member sizing, reinforcement, embedment, and detailed connection design, in accordance with the requirements of specification section 03 48 24, the contract documents, and applicable codes. Typically, Precast Columbarium Niche Unit manufacturers will provide the required delegated design documents for this purpose.

Question 43 Drawing LI100 Drawing LI100 is not readable, please provide legible copy.

Answer 43

LI100 text has been adjusted in Addendum #1.

Question 44 Drawing IR500 / Detail 9 & SPEC 32 84 00 Section 2.7A.d.4) Drawing IR500 / Detail 9 specifies a LEEMCO LMV resilient wedge gate valve, which is also referenced in Specification 32 84 00. Based on lessons learned from previous projects, LEEMCO cast iron products do not meet the Buy American Act domestic content requirements. If this valve is intended to be used as specified, please confirm that it is acceptable given the unavailability of compliant alternatives.

Answer 44

Addendum #1 provides Appendix B to the specifications – an example letter that has been accepted to allow LEEMCO products.

Question 45 Is there a planting schedule – or Planting Drawings?

Answer 45 See LP101 & LP102 for planting drawings and 32 90 00 Specification.

Question 46 Is contractor responsible for any permits beyond NPDES?

Answer 46

Contractor is responsible for all applicable permits required to perform work.

Question 47 Is electric available at staging area for construction trailer?

Answer 47

If the Contractor construction trailer is located in staging area approximately .25 miles from site, then there is an RV outlet to use. At Section 19, only an irrigation box with 120v is present and not available to the Contractor.

Question 48 01 00 02 1.4.C Please confirm that if guards are required, this will be treated as a contract modification.

Answer 48

Per Specification Section 01 00 02 1.4.C – if guards are required at the project it is the responsibility of the General Contractor.

Question 49 01 00 02 1.4.F Please clarify motor vehicle restriction. Continual access to the project locations will be required throughout the duration of the project.

Answer 49

Specification Section 01 00 02 1.4.F is struck from Construction Specification in Addendum #1

Question 50 01 43 39 1.4.B Specification section 01 43 39, Par. 1.4.B includes staircase, memorial wall and entry wall mockup requirements. No work is being performed at the memorial wall, entry wall and there are not any stair cases on the project. Please confirm that no mockup is required for staircase, memorial wall and entry wall.

Answer 50 Confirmed. See revised Construction Specifications in Addendum #1.

Question 51 02 21 13 Please clarify what scope of work is required for Specification Section 02 21 13.

Answer 51 02 21 13 scope of work is surveying work required for location and vertical control of site elements and installation and asbuilt documentation.

Question 52 03 48 24 1.3.G Please confirm if a Precast Columbarium Functional Load Test will be required.

Answer 52 Per specification 03 48 24 (1.3) (G.) “Functional Load Tests: The Government COR reserves the right to require a functional load test on the precast columbariums. COR indicates that Columbarium Functional Load Test is not typically required unless quality control issues are identified during construction.

Question 53 05 50 00 Specification Section 05 50 00 references shelf angles, however precast columbarium unit stainless steel angles is covered under Specification Section 03 48 24. Please confirm that Specification Section 03 48 24 is to be followed.

Answer 53 03 48 24 referrers to Columbarium Niche Cover Attachment Hardware and Memorial Wall Marker Attachments. 05 50 00 refers to the Angle Shelf Lintel that will support the masonry unit between the column and niche.

Question 54 32 12 16 There is no asphalt paving indicated on drawings. Please clarify how this specification is applicable to the project.

Answer 54 Asphalt paving is included around curb demolition. Refer to Addendum #1 plans for extents of this work.

Question 55 Geotechnical Report Under the Geotechnical Overview paragraph, an environmental assessment is recommended to be conducted to evaluate extent of impacted soils. Has the environmental assessment been conducted?

Answer 55 Environmental Assessment was recommended by the Geotechnical Report for the location of Borings B-1, B-3, and B-4. No work is being conducted in these areas. No Environmental Assessment is necessary.

Question 56 Borings Please clarify what scope of work is being performed in location of Borings 1-4.

Answer 56 No work is being conducted in these areas.

Question 57 Please confirm that the contractor is responsible to prepare and submit a traffic control plan to Minneapolis for ingress/egress to cemetery property.

Answer 57 Contractor is responsible for coordinating a traffic control plan with governing entities where they are required and necessary. Any traffic control plans that limit access to cemetery property shall be approved by the COR.

Question 58 Please confirm that clearing and grubbing to 1” minus within IGC Section 38 is limited to areas where existing trees are being removed and replaced.

Answer 58 Clearing and Grubbing shall occur 1” minus where trees are being removed to the extents of which the critical root zone occurs; See 9/CS501, at ROW easements and Existing site features that are to remain in place.

Question 59 LS300/Detail 2 Drawing LS300/Detail 2 includes a limited view showing drainage aggregate under gravel strip and appears to extend to footing depth. Please provide full profile view to footing depth.

Answer 59 See Detail 1/LS501 for Flower gravel strip; See detail 9/CS503 for Thickened Edge (Adjacent);

Approved Subgrade below Flower Gravel Strip to footing.

Question 60

CU101

Drawing CU101 is blacked out on half of page. Please provide new drawings.

Answer 60

Refer to Addendum #1 for revised sheet CU101.

Question 61 03 48 24 LS500/Detail 1

Specification and drawing list anchorage as a delegated design requirement. It is not feasible to perform delegated design of precast columbarium units during the bidding process. Please clarify what anchorage should be assumed during the bidding period for precast columbarium units to foundations and precast columbarium units to caps.

Answer 61 See previous response questions 2 & 42

Question 62

LI100

Please provide approximate distance from controller for new wiring required to zones 1, 2, 8 and 9.

Answer 62

Refer to revised sheet LI106 note added to plan grid A5

Question 63

CG101

Please clarify what the W symbol shown in two locations on north side of section 38 represents.

Answer 63

Refer to V-102 Legend – W symbol refers to existing irrigation valve boxes. Sheet CG101 is revised in Addendum #1.

Question 64

CD101

There is an existing Do Not Enter Sign along the road on the North West side of the section. This sign is not indicated on the drawings. Please clarify if this sign is to remain or be removed and replaced.

Answer 64

Protect sign in place. Refer to revised sheet CD101 in Addendum #1.

Question 65 32 33 00 2.5.A Specification Section 32 33 00 Paragraph 2.5.A states to match existing flower vase receptacle and states to refer to drawings for details. However, no details are shown on the drawings for the flower vase receptacles. Please provide detail.

Answer 65 Basis of Design: Doty & Sons concrete products. Contact manufacturer for additional details on flower vase receptacles.

Question 66

CG101

IGC Section 38 appears to be close to finished grade. Please clarify if any fill soil remediation or amendment is required to the section.

Answer 66 No fill soil remediation or amendment is required in this section. Grading plan on CG101 is provided to restore section after irrigation work has been completed.

Question 67 CU101 (PDF page 25) – This sheet has a huge black block over half of the information. Can we be provided with a new sheet that does not show this?

Answer 67

Refer to Addendum #1 for revised sheet CU101.

Question 68 CS102 and CS501 (PDF page 14 and 15) – The legend refers to “Pedestrian Concrete See Detail 7/CS501” but there is no detail “7” on CS501. Can we be provided with these details?

Answer 68

See revised detail references in sheet CS102 in Addendum #1.

Question 69 CS102 (PDF page 14) – Per “Key Notes” and plan view, there is Barrier Curb to Roll Curb Transition, but there are no call outs for Roll Curb and Gutter. Is there any Roll Curb and Gutter? If so, where does it transition to Flush Curb?

Answer 69

Refer to Addendum #1 for revised sheet CS101.

Question 70 CS502 (PDF page 16) 32 33 00 2.5 (Spec PDF page 252) – In the Flower Vase Receptacle spec section, it refers to the drawings for size and model. Detail 5 calls out to 6/CS502 for the flower vase receptacle.

Detail 6 only shows the trash receptacle. Can we be provided the Model and Size for the Flower Vase Receptacle?

Answer 70 See previous response questions 65

Question 71 Is the project tax exempt?

Answer 71 The project is not tax exempt. The bid amount must include all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes. Also reference FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

Question 72 What is the anticipated NTP?

Answer 72 The award will be made by mid-May 2026 if possible and notice to proceed will be issued when the awardee submits their Payment and Performance Bond, and all parties are available for a preconstruction meeting.

Question 73 32 90 00 - This spec calls out a very specific custom turfgrass mix — 60% Rhambler 2 TTTF, 10% Intrigue CF, etc. That mix isn't commercially available as sod. Can we substitute standard certified Kentucky bluegrass sod, which is what about 95% of MN sod farms grow?

Answer 73 The turfgrass seed mix is to match what is currently used on site by cemetery maintenance staff.

Question 74 Is this project tax exempt and if so, will a certificate be issued?

Answer 74 The project is not tax exempt. The bid amount must include all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes. Also reference FAR 52.229-3 Federal, State, and Local Taxes in the solicitation.

Question 75 Payment for materials: FAR 52.232-5(b)(2) states, “In the preparation of estimates, the Contracting Officer may authorize material…” VAAR 852.232-70(d) states: “The Contracting Officer will consider for monthly progress payments material and/or equipment procured by the Contractor…” We have seen contract officers refuse payment for materials because their interpretation is that payment is optional and they simply prefer not to pay for materials.

Question - will payments for uninstalled/offsite materials be approved on this project? If the answer is no, contractors need to know this at time of bid so they can include storage, finance, and carrying costs.

Answer 75

NCA will pay for only the material costs after proof of purchase and payment is provided by the contractor. The contractor must guarantee that the material will serve its purpose when it is time to be used on the project without damage. Storage fees will not be paid by the NCA.

Question 76 Will space be allocated for a job trailer and laydown area? If so, where? It was discussed on the site walk.

Just confirming through RFI’s

Answer 76

See Detail 1/CO102. Additional areas requested for job trailer and laydown may be approved by the Cemetery and COR after construction award.

Question 77 Will temporary power be provided for the job trailer for us to hook into too?

Answer 77

If the Contractor construction trailer is located in staging area approximately .25 miles from site, then there is an RV outlet to use. At Section 19, only an irrigation box with 120v is present and not available to the Contractor.

Question 78 Where will contracting parking be located? It was discussed on the site walk. Just confirming through RFI’s

Answer 78

Contractor parking is to be located in staging area shown on CO102 or adjacent areas approved by the cemetery / COR.

Question 79 Please verify the exact amount of personnel required from the GC for this project for superintendent, QC, and SSHO.

Answer 79

The superintendent may cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC based on their ability to manage and perform multiple roles and responsibilities. The Government holds the right to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 80 Are there any badging requirements for construction workers?

Answer 80

No badging requirements. Coordinate with Cemetery Staff for any additional requirements.

Question 81 Is the contractor responsible for supplying a Submittal Exchange type website?

Answer 81

Yes.

Question 82 Can the “professional photographer” outlined in the specification be employed by the GC?

Answer 82 Yes provided they meet requirements of specifications.

Question 83 Please confirm that the IGC’s are just plots of land and not a pre-cast type burial/urn vault. When the cemetery has a service, do the cremains get buried directly into the ground?

Answer 83 Confirmed. IGC burials do not contain precast urn vaults. Cremains are direct buried.

Question 84 Please confirm that the GC is not providing the headstones for the IGC’s

Answer 84

Confirmed.

Question 85 Do the gates close at certain times? Are we allowed to work outside of the cemetery hours if needed? Is weekend work allowed?

Answer 85 weekend work.

Question 86 Can the awarded contractor get a schedule of the services on a weekly basis?

Answer 86

Yes. Coordination with the Cemetery shall occur daily to ensure cemetery operations can continue throughout construction.

Question 87 If a service is scheduled next to our work area, will we have to reschedule the work planned for that time?

Or can we work through it? (Provided the noise created by the work is at an acceptable level.)

Answer 87

The contractor shall work with the Cemetery staff to coordinate work around ongoing cemetery operations. It is anticipated that the Contractor and Cemetery will work together to maintain a respectful atmosphere for ongoing and adjacent services.

Question 88 01 57 19 1.7 F.1.: Noise control. Confirm that high-level impact noise can only be performed between 6AM and 6PM.

Answer 88

Coordination with the Cemetery staff for high-level impact noise is required to limit disturbance to cemetery operations and services.

Question 89 Can you confirm that there will not be any requirement for after-hours work?

Answer 89

Normal work hours are within cemetery operating hours, which are 7:30am to 4:00pm.

weekend work.

Question 90 Spec 01 00 02-1.4F.1 Motor Vehicle Restrictions: States that any vehicle entering the site shall be submitted 24 before date and time of access. Does this include cars and pickup trucks for daily commute?

Answer 90

Specification Section 01 00 02 1.4.F is struck from Construction Specification in Addendum #1

Question 91 Will the VA provide private locates to utilities?

Answer 91

Contractor is responsible for providing utility locates where necessary.

Question 92 01 45 29-3.8 Concrete B.18: Do we need to measure floor levelness and flatness? Confirm concrete scopes that are to receive this.

Answer 92

It is not necessary to measure floor levelness and flatness for columbaria.

Question 93 Geotechnical report: Existing fill: Although some compaction effort may have been used, the fill does not appear to have been uniformly compacted to a high degree. The presence of existing fill on the site presents risks that unsuitable materials or voids may be present and concealed by the fill. If existing fill remains in place below planned structures (foundations, slabs, or pavements), there is an elevated risk of unacceptable settlement. Structures supported over undocumented fills often do not perform predictably.

Answer 93

Existing site below columbarium structures shall be prepared in accordance with the requirements noted in the Earthwork section in the geotechnical report.

Question 94 Have these comments been considered in design?

Answer 94

Clarify what comments you are referring to.

Question 95 Geotechnical report: Sand Subbase: Terracon recommends placing a 12-inch sand subbase layer in the pavement section. Should this be included as part of our price? This is not shown on detail 8/CS501.

Answer 95

Follow plan details.

Question 96 Geotechnical report: Foundation Construction Considerations: Over excavation for structural fill should be conducted as shown below. The over excavation should be backfilled to the footing base elevation with structural fill place, as recommended in the Earthwork section. Should we include this in our pricing?

Answer 96

Yes.

Question 97 Geotechnical report: Environmental considerations: Terracon’s report stated that they recommend an environmental assessment be carried out to characterize the impacted soils and to establish necessary remediation options due to potential effects of vapor accumulation, disposal requirements for materials removed during construction, or changes in the subsurface conditions due to remediation effects. Should we include this as part of our pricing?

Answer 97

Question 98 Throughout several spec sections there is reference to Division 09 06 00 SCHEDULE OF FINISHES.

This specification section is not shown in the specs though. Can this section be issued?

Answer 98 See previous response questions 39

Question 99 Will there be a winter exclusionary period on this project?

Answer 99

The Government will consider a winter work stoppage with exclusionary period.

Question 100 Can you provide location of Parking and staging area assigned to this project?

Answer 100

Contractor parking is to be located in staging area shown on CO102 or adjacent areas approved by the cemetery / COR.

Question 101 Can the site visit Attendee list please be provided?

Answer 101 Please see attached

Question 102 Will the VA accept the use of Procore Project Management software as the primary submittal platform?

Answer 102

Contractor is responsible for determining what platform to use for submittal / RFI / correspondence. Procore is an acceptable option.

Question 103 Does this project require a site superintendent?

Answer 103

Refer to contract documents and specifications.

Question 104 Can the Superintendent, Perform the SSHO Functions ie dual-hatted?

Answer 104 request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 105 Can you confirm the Superintendent may perform the CQC Manager Functions ie dual-hatted?

Answer 105

The superintendent may cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC based on their ability to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 106 Can you confirm the Superintendent may perform the SSHO and the CQC Manager Functions ie Triple-hatted?

a. Or do these roles need to be performed by separate individuals?

Answer 106 request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 107 Will an onsite CQC Manager with supervision experience be acceptable in lieu of a graduate engineer, graduate architect, or graduate of construction management CQC Manager?

Answer 107

The Government will accept a CQC based on their ability and supervision experience. The Government holds the right to request additional personal onsite if the defined roles and responsibilities are not being fulfilled.

Question 108 Is there any alternative to the construction joint spacing called out on note 6 sheet S101? We would like to propose a two-part cost and time effective alternative instead of splitting each columbarium unit into two pours.

a. Install control joint forms at the specified construction joint locations, pour each columbarium unit in one continuous pour, then install rod stock and caulk per plan at the formed control joints.

b. Ramp up pour speed to minimize cold joint concerns by having two ready-mix trucks dumping concrete into the pump hopper at the same time.

Answer 108

This is not acceptable at the columbaria. Construction joints shall be provided in accordance with the details shown on the plans. These joints are required to properly control shrinkage and cracking of the concrete.

If the proposed control joint system allows for full separation between concrete pours at construction joint locations, submit product information for review.

Question 109 Sheet CS102 shows “pedestrian pavement” referring to detail 7/CS501. Detail 7/CS501 is blank. Are we to refer to detail 9/CS503 instead of 7/CS501?

a. If 9/CS503 is the detail to use, can we substitute #3 rebar for the welded wire mech at 24’’ OC EW, or similar spacing?

Answer 109

See revised detail references in sheet CS102 in Addendum #1.

Question 110 Are the columbarium poured walls mass concrete?

Answer 110 See plans. No, the columbarium poured walls are not considered mass concrete.

Question 111 Is an as-built survey required by the prime contractor? Or will the AE perform this scope?

Answer 111

As-built survey is required to be performed by the prime contractor or their subcontractor.

Question 112 As-built drawings: Will the prime contractor be required to create as-built drawings at completion of the project, or will the AE perform this?

Answer 112

As-built survey is required to be performed by the prime contractor or their subcontractor. As-built drawings will be developed by AE following construction from As-built surveys performed by contractor and plan markups maintained by contractor throughout construction.

Question 113 Spec 01 00 02-1.21: Confirm that power on the project will need to be metered and paid by the contractor.

Answer 113

Fort Snelling National Cemetery has a staging site for trailers and the Contractor will be required to meter for electrical power. At Section 19 alternative site there is no power available and the Contractor will be required to use generators at their expense, as there is no power there.

Question 114 Spec 01 00 02-1.25: Government furnished property. This states that the Government shall deliver to the contractor, the Government-furnished property shown on the drawings, but that the contractor shall be prepared to receive this equipment and store.

a. Does the Government have a list of material that they will be furnishing?

Answer 114

Government furnished property for this project will include Columbaria Niche Covers.

Question 115 01 00 02-1.30 Final Elevation Photographs: Confirm that final photographs need to be taken by a commercial/professional photographer.

Answer 115

Confirmed.

Question 116 Liquidated Damages: Will you confirm that there are liquidated damages on this project in the amount of $1,075.00 per calendar day?

Answer 116 Yes confirmed

Question 117 Will an administrative NTP be considered to procure long-lead items before mobilizing to site, that does not count toward the 270-day Period of Performance?

Answer 117

There will be no administrative NTP issued by the Government. The Government will issue NTP on the date established for the preconstruction kickoff meeting.

Question 118 01 43 39-1.4D: Mockup: Can you confirm the size required for the below mockups:

a. Columbarium

b. Memorial Wall

c. Entry Wall

Answer 118 The extent/size of the Mockups to be constructed shall include all components as noted in specification 01 43 39; Columbarium mockups to include (1) Column and Partial Wall open/exposed to see all materials and components. Contractor to provide shop drawings for the proposed mockup extents and location for review and approval.

Question 119 Specification Section 01 00 02 requires temporary construction fencing to be a minimum 7 feet in height and installed as a pedestrian barrier around the construction limits.

However, Specification Section 32 31 13 includes detailed requirements for chain-link fencing materials, coatings, and framework typically associated with permanent installations (e.g., ASTM F1043 Group IA, Schedule 40 posts, polymer coatings, etc.).

Additionally, the drawings indicate chain-link fabric width of 6'-0" typical and show the temporary fencing to be installed 3'-0" below grade.

Please clarify the following:

1. Is Specification Section 32 31 13 intended to apply to temporary construction fencing, or is it limited to permanent fencing only, which is not part of the SOW for this project?

2. Confirm acceptable material and installation requirements for temporary construction fencing (e.g., standard temporary panels)

3. Confirm required fence height, as specifications indicate 7'-0" minimum, while drawings indicate 6'-0" fabric.

4. Confirm whether the requirement to install fencing 3'-0" below grade applies to temporary construction fencing.

Answer 119

1. Specification Section 32 31 13 is to be used for temporary construction fencing.

2. Material and installation requirements for temporary construction fencing to be per plan detail(s) and specification 32 31 13

3. Temporary construction fence height to be as shown in plan with 6'-0" minimum height and footing depth of a min. of 3’-0” below finish grade.

4. Yes, temporary construction fencing footing is to be installed 3'-0" below grade where applicable.

See note 2 on Detail 10/CS501

Question 120 Specification Reference:

Section 10 14 00 – Exterior Signs, Paragraph 2.9

Drawing References:

5/CS502, 6/CS502, 1/CS503

Request:

The Contract Documents appear to contain conflicting information regarding the configuration and materials of the spigot posts with signs (flower watering stations).

Specification 10 14 00, Paragraph 2.9, requires that spigot posts with signs match existing flower watering stations within Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. Drawing 5/CS502 depicts an 8-inch square precast concrete post associated with the flower water station, consistent with typical cemetery installations and rounded signage. However, Drawing 1/CS503 (Typical Water Faucet Sign) depicts an aluminum tubular post with rectangular signage and associated fabrication notes. Additionally, photos shown on 6/CS502 appear to depict exposed plumbing piping with the spigot mounted directly, with no post present.

These differing representations (precast concrete post, aluminum post, and no post condition) create ambiguity regarding the intended basis of design for bidding purposes.

Please clarify the following:

1. Confirm the required configuration of the flower watering stations (precast concrete post, aluminum post, or exposed piping configuration).

2. Confirm the required sign type, shape, size, and mounting (rounded signage consistent with concrete posts vs. rectangular signage associated with aluminum posts).

3. Confirm whether the intent is to match existing field conditions at Ft. Snelling and, if so, identify which condition governs.

4. Confirm the appropriate detail to be used as the basis of bid in the event of discrepancy between drawings and specifications.

Answer 120

1. Flower Watering Stations configuration to match that shown in the photo detail 6/CS502 and plan view of 5/CS502. The spigot style shall be a precast concrete post as shown in

5/CS502.

2. Flower Watering Station Spigot signage will be rounded signage consistent with concrete posts, as shown in detail 5/CS502 and VA Signage Design Guide.

3. See response noted above to #1 & #2 of this question.

4. See response noted above to #1 & #2 of this question.

Proposed Basis of Bid (if no clarification provided prior to bid):

Contractor will base pricing on precast concrete posts with rounded signage consistent with existing installations and Specification 10 14 00 requirements to match existing conditions.