FBO_Q A.pdf

Camp Dodge Bridge Replacement --- AG-24H8-S-13-0032 Notes, and clarification – 05/23/13

Questions and Answers

Questions from email -

What are deflection-limit criteria for bridge fabrication? >> Deflection limits are not specified;

structural capacity is primary consideration. Deflection shall not exceed tolerable limits of manufacturing processes or connection assemblies.

The spec’s reference solid sawn material to be graded per WCLIB (West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau) which is used for Douglas Fir. Southern Pine is graded per SPIB (Southern Pine Inspection Bureau). Is the wear plank Douglas Fir? >> Structural Materials may be either Doug-Fir or Southern Pine, graded per appropriate agency.

Will you allow Douglas Fir Glulams if they meet or exceed the strength of Southern Pine? Offerers may provide submittals for alternative materials or configurations; in conformance to performance criteria stated. The submittals would include manufacturer’s certifications and shop drawings for approval prior to ordering.

The specification calls for a glu laminated longitudinal timber bridge. Our company designs and fabricates a similar dowel or spike laminated structure. It too spans using longitudinal panels composed of Douglas fir members each individually treated with Copper Napthenate solution, an oil based preservative, and pressed into a panel. Can we offer this structure to the contractors? Offerers may provide submittals for alternative materials or configurations in conformance to performance criteria stated. The submittals would include Fabrication Drawings and Structural Calculations for approval prior to ordering.

In the notes on bridge plans, it calls for bridge to be treated using an oil based preservative but the pedestrian handrail is to be water bourne. We cannot find detail of pedestrian handrail. Where is it to be mounted? Pedestrian rail is not required for this project, crash-rated bridge rail only.

The specifications call for a crash tested rail system. What level rating are they looking for? Test Level 1 minimum, or Level 2 is allowed if preferred by manufacturer.

On the rail system are curbs or scuppers allowed/required? Scuppers are not required, but may be an allowed alternative based on manufacture preference and supported calculations approved during the submittal process.

Questions from Pre-Bid; 05/23/2013

What is anticipation of funds? >> We anticipate receiving funds, to possibly a very minimum level.

Some of the items are shown as optional; Govt may not award all items.

Are permits available? >> Gov’t will obtain wetland impact permits. Contractor shall obtain additional permits, or supplements to Gov’t-obtained permits, as needed for specific contractor operations.

How will Ledge Excavation be measured? >> Ledge Excavation will be part of Structural Excavation.

Any activity or work requirements without a separate bid item will be considered incidental to items

Camp Dodge Bridge Replacement --- AG-24H8-S-13-0032 Notes, and clarification – 05/23/13 listed in the Schedule of Items. Removal of ledge is intended to be minimized, and performed as necessary to provide suitable and uniform foundation at intended elevations.

Why is Performance Period so short? >> Time sensitive uses of site require strict adherence to schedule. Bid due date – and start-up date – are intended to allow lead-time for Contractor to coordinate all preparations prior to mobilizing.

What is Gov’t availability for Administrative Matters? >> Gov’t will not guarantee availability of staff to monitor the site. Contractor is responsible for Quality Control; Gov’t reserves the right to inspect the work at its convenience, and Administrative Matters will be responded to as availability allows.

Will scuppers be required on curb? >> Scupper spacing is not specified; Bridge Rail shall conform to performance criteria, and manufacturers shall recommend appropriate assembly method.

Is there another access? >> No, single-lane road providing only access. Once mobilized, Contractor will be allowed to close site entirely for operations; with requirement to minimize impacts to traffic on approaching highway.

Can offerers propose alternative configurations (such as a longer span, utilizing existing abutments to provide coffer-dam protection)? >> Per provision 52.236-28 in the current solicitation, alternate proposals will not be considered. Please submit your offer on the project as presently designed.

Clause 52.248-3 Value Engineering does allow contractors to suggest alternative designs after contract award and to share in any savings created by these changes.

A copy of the approved state wetland permit for this project is enclosed for information.

Yellow highlighted sentences are a slight variance to answers given at the pre-bid meeting.