Atch1_SOW.pdf

US Fish and Wildlife Service Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Conceptual Design, Final Design, Fabrication, and Installation of Exhibits and Displays Statement of Work (SOW)

Project Background This SOW describes services needed to design, fabricate, and install world-class and state of the art exhibits at the new Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center located at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, 2700 Suwannee Canal Road, Folkston, GA 31537. The new visitor center is currently under contract and in design phase. It must be closely coordinated with the new construction schedules and constraints, currently nearing 65% design development stage with an anticipated visitor center construction completion date of September 2024. NOTE: 65% design is attached; exhibits areas are outlined in red.

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is like no other place on earth and has been called the “most blissful place on earth” by the Muscogee Creek Nation. The refuge endeavors to have a center to educate our visitors about this vast wetland, its plant and animal inhabitants and the people who have called Okefenokee home through exhibits that are engaging, interactive, and visually appealing. The new visitor center is in the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, which has a complex of buildings including the Concession/Environmental Education classroom, picnic pavilion, and several outbuildings. With this new visitor center, the refuge endeavors to improve wayfinding and provide a space to be able to educate not only first-time visitors, but visitors that are coming back for their 100th visit, on the wonders of the Okefenokee Swamp.

The exhibits should appeal to all visitor types, whether they are the adventure seeker, day traveler, school group, or international guest. We also want visitors to see the Center as a “must do” while visiting the refuge, bringing people out to the refuge for the purpose of seeing the exhibits and the visitor center. The vision of the new visitor center would be to have a welcoming, engaging, and dynamic space where visitors will return again and again.

Visitation:

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge sees approximately 250,000-300,000 visitors annually with the peak visitation occurring in March – May and again in October – December. The refuge sees a combination of first-time visitors and visitors that return again and again for experiences like canoeing/kayaking, birdwatching, wildlife observation, and camping in the Okefenokee Wilderness. Most of visitors that come to the existing Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center are first-time visitors looking for visitor opportunities and to hear recent events/happenings around the refuge.

Purpose: The purpose of this Statement of Work is to design, fabricate and install the interpretive exhibits for the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center building at Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. All work completed under this contract shall be done in coordination through the Contracting Officers Representative (COR) with general contractors involved in this project and shall be closely coordinated with the new construction schedules and constraints as provided by the COR. For the purpose of this statement of work, “exhibit” is defined as, but not limited to, any of the following or combinations: dioramas, interpretive panels; graphics; interactive mechanicals;

period models; 3D relief maps; photomurals; background paintings and murals; videos or video excerpts, floor treatments; ceiling treatments; audio-visual equipment including audio and video displays; photographs; illustrations; cabinetry; interior and exterior signs; kiosks; exterior sculptures and dioramas; storage; and associated exhibit lighting.

General Requirements of the Project The contractor shall furnish all transportation, materials, equipment, services, facilities, labor, and necessary permits to design, purchase, fabricate/produce, finish, transport to site, and install those items considered basic support structures for the interpretive media within local, state, and federal building codes. Work under this section includes all materials (including computer specifications), carpentry, cabinetry, metal work, acrylic work, glazing and application of finishes. Contractor shall consider the 65% visitor center design plan for interior walls, associated lighting and electrical placements when designing the exhibit to avoid modifications.

NOTE: On the attached concept drawing, on the east wall (left side of the picture), instead of having three long windows, the three widows will be square and moved to the top of the wall, ten feet up from the floor, so the exhibits have a clean wall space to work with without being interrupted by windows.

The contractor shall employ the latest and most suitable technology in the fabrication, production, and installation of all interpretive media. The contractor shall work in close collaboration with USFWS COR identified to assure interpretive materials are conceived, designed, and developed to be accurate and appropriate for the intended use. Interpretive materials are for targeted audiences and deal with a wide variety of subjects. As part of a small team consisting of the contractor, field station or office, and regional office staff, the contractor shall develop conceptual overall thematic structure for interpretive materials and contribute suggestions regarding illustrations, diagrams, and maps.

Accuracy of information is highly important. Illustrations shall accurately depict habitats, landforms, and wildlife. In selecting an illustration style, biological accuracy is the most important aspect, but aesthetics and appeal are also highly important. When photographs are used, the images chosen shall accurately represent the refuge and its habitats.

All original illustrations, murals, photos, images, audio, video, graphic layouts, and any other work associated with the project will be the exclusive property of the USFWS, even if they are stored at the contractor's facility to simplify the production of duplicate items. Final files of all interpretive media shall be furnished in the native file format to the USFWS.

The contractor shall coordinate the exhibit design with the overall building design and other pre-existing interpretive media, when appropriate. This shall include and require coordination, discussions, meetings, and design workshop participation with the COR for participation with the architectural and engineering firm responsible for designing and constructing the new visitor center facility.

The contractor shall provide cleaning equipment and materials such as rags, paper towels, cleansers, vacuum cleaners, brooms, trash bags and containers, and other equipment for cleaning exhibit and work areas. The contractor is responsible for removal from the work site of all waste materials generated during the installation and shall arrange for proper disposal of this material. The work site is to be kept clean of debris and trash from each day's work activities.

The contractor shall be responsible for securing all their materials and tools during installation.

Additionally, the contractor shall be responsible for coordination with USFWS for installation times and on-site conditions.

Anything damaged or defaced within the building or work area (interior or exterior) due to contractor's error during installation shall be restored to the original condition at the contractor’s own expense.

The primary purpose of the statement of work is to design, fabricate and install interpretive exhibits for the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center in Folkston, Georgia. The exhibits are to be designed for the following spaces:

1. 2,080 square-feet exhibit hall

2. 178 square-feet display area

3. 823 square-feet meeting room/multipurpose room

4. Hallway leading out the back door of Visitor Center

All interpretive media products planned, designed, and fabricated shall follow the latest published version of Programmatic Accessibility Guidelines for National Park Service Interpretive Media. These Guidelines are a combination of best practices, USFWS and Department of the Interior directives, and federal laws. Federal laws include the Architectural Barriers Act, Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act as amended, and the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act. If a conflict between any of the aforementioned rules, laws, or guidelines exists, the most stringent applies.

Universal design principles and accessibility requirements for visitors with specific disabilities shall be addressed within the designed media. If design decisions pose challenges to accessibility (such as artifacts or objects behind glass), additional attention shall be paid to a full description of the accessibility solutions. Typical areas of design to consider when designing exhibits, but are not limited to:

1. Typography

2. Reach ranges (heights and reach distances for artifacts, interactive exhibits, panels, and other elements)

3. Protruding objects, including roofs, aerial exhibits, and overhead objects

4. Use of color, contrast, and font sizes

5. Use of tactile elements such as models, maps, raised images, and other tactile elements

6. Use of sounds and smells

7. Use of Braille and raised lettering

8. Considerations related to exhibit flow, circulation path, and accessible floor plans

9. Changes in level

10. Quality of travel surfaces

11. Use of audio description systems

12. Use of exhibits by children

Project Overall Messages and Themes Final conceptual design of this project shall include exhibits, displays, furnishings, and interior/exterior signs and panels that interpret the cultural history and natural resource management of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge for the entrance and exhibit area, the multipurpose room, and the display area. The Visitor Center exhibits should be engaging, interactive, and visually appealing to a wide range of audiences, including being accessible to people with visual and hearing impairment. Additionally, the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System should be blended throughout ALL of the exhibits, highlighting the important work that is accomplished by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the conservation of these lands for future generations of Americans.

A. Primary and Secondary Messages of the Exhibits

1. Primary Messages:

a. History: Native cultures, swampers, Civilian Conservation Corps

b. Ecology of the Okefenokee Swamp: Interconnectedness, hydrology, habitats, wildlife, geology (peat – carbon sequestration)

c. Management: Fire, forestry, biology, endangered species, recreation, partners, and overall significance (Wilderness, air quality, water storage)

2. Secondary Messages (to be woven into the exhibit messaging):

a. Species conservation and protection

b. Overall significance of the Okefenokee to the community, region, country and the world

c. Wilderness qualities, characteristics, importance

d. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service/National Wildlife Refuge System

B. Exhibit ideas to consider

1. Cultural History – “In Their Own Voice” recordings and storytelling “Swamp Voices/Swamp Stories,” including the iconic swamp hollering.

2. Diorama of Creek/Muscogee Nation at home in the swamp with stories of their legends of the swamp. Information on the all-black CCC camp and their contributions to today’s visitor experience.

3. Taxidermy and/or carvings/replicas including iconic species like the American alligator, black bear, great blue heron, sandhill crane, gopher tortoise, indigo snake, wood stork, alligator snapping turtle, etc.

4. Dioramas with interactive components for species identification, etc.

5. Interactive displays that show the force of an alligator’s jaws, the physics behind the water dance when an alligator bellows, etc.

6. Visual depiction of the interconnectedness between the swamp and the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

7. Visual depiction of the hydrological/geological layers of the swamp, i.e., rain input, standing water, floating peat, submersed peat, ground water, sand/rock layers, etc.

8. Importance of fire in the ecosystem and how the refuge manages for fire

9. Space for rotating exhibitions/displays.

C. Considerations for Design and Concepts

1. Individual exhibits shall complement each other by presenting a unified set of themes.

2. The exhibits shall provide pathways for new and returning visitors to engage emotionally and intellectually to the key messages of the Refuge. The exhibits should do so by including universal concepts, emphasizing multiple perspectives, as well as being relevant, engaging, and interactive. The exhibits should foster emotional and intellectual connection to a variety of user groups of all ages, ethnicity, cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Ultimately, the exhibits should foster conservation and stewardship ethics by aiming to relate to audiences at their own level of comfort, understanding and experience.

3. A variety of user groups of local and national origin will visit the new visitor center and exhibits. User groups will include hunters, anglers, birders, photographers, nature observers, families and educators/school groups, history enthusiasts, scientists and recreational travelers.

4. Tell the stories and provide the information in an interpretive format to allow the visitors to make their own personal connections and draw their own conclusions.

5. The exhibit space shall be as open as possible to allow for organic visitor flow through the space and not be partitioned/divided off from the lobby of the visitor center. The refuge hosts many large school groups that requires an open floor plan for easier access/viewing. Noise level/acoustics are a concern and exhibits with audio should be designed with this consideration (speakers positioned above and downward or other methods of sound control).

6. Based on the existing traffic flow and parking areas at the Suwannee Canal Recreation Area, visitors will access the visitor center from both the front and back doors equally. The exhibits should be designed with this in mind so that the exhibits are welcoming and provide easy access and visitor flow from both the front and back doors.

Planning and Design - Work to be Performed by the Contractor - Overall Design Guidelines

1. Because most visitors will spend a short amount of time at each exhibit, exhibits must communicate designated messages easily and clearly with a minimum amount of text. Descriptive headlines and subheads shall be used to help visitors skim for items of interest. Furthermore, the exhibits must have maximum visual impact.

Visuals, including graphics and illustrations, shall be attractive and easily understood.

2. The overall appearance of the exhibits should not be so trendy as to be quickly outdated in style. Timelessness and quality are key to the exhibit designs.

3. All interpretive elements and furnishings shall be coordinated and designed to complement each other and the architectural style of the building, creating a "signature look" for the facility.

4. All exhibits and materials shall be designed to withstand constant touching and visitor interaction, and thus, still look good and remain functional for a minimum of 10 years. Materials and exhibits must be easy to clean and maintain. Designed for reasonable replacement costs and maintenance shall be minimal. There shall be no exposed silk-screened or vinyl lettering on any exhibit surface. Careful consideration must be given to design, structural materials, paints, adhesives, and laminates so that they do not pose health or safety risks to visitors or employees.

5. Incorporate universal design concepts for accessibility in the design of the exhibits.

Design drawings of all exhibits at final design shall include:

a. Exact size and location of each exhibit.

b. Materials and PMS colors to be used.

c. Locations of specimens, final text, graphics, illustrations, and photographs.

Illustrations shall be in final form.

d. Clear representation of the sizes and styles of the typefaces to be used.

e. Framing and/or mounting details

6. The Exhibit Contractor shall consult with and propose to the Service energy efficient lighting and electrical elements, verifying the proper location for track lighting for spot or floodlights, the need for additional lighting, as necessary, and stub outs.

Also, the IDIQ Contractor shall consult with and propose to the Service and any associated General Building Contractors the requirement for data lines, electrical lines, etc., and their locations.

7. The designs shall comply with the above-mentioned guidelines and all applicable local, state and federal building codes. The most stringent safety factors shall be used in the design of all products.

8. Attend and participate in all appropriate meetings for coordination of the exhibit design with the building design with the General Contractor for the building and their subcontractors and the Service.

9. Coordinate and facilitate the initial pre-design workshop schedule and all subsequent exhibit meetings with the COR and write up the meeting notes summarizing the discussions and accomplishments from each meeting, including the decision and action items, for COR review within one week after the meeting.

Project Schedule The contractor shall produce a detailed, complete project schedule listing all required submittals and their review times. The project schedule shall include design phases and timelines, production schedule, shop inspections, site visits, installation activities, and closeout submittals.

The contractor shall submit a preliminary project schedule to the COR for review and approval ten (10) working days prior to the post award meeting. The contractor shall update the approved schedule and resubmit to the COR five (5) working days prior to every project status meeting for the life of the project.

Status Reports The contractor shall provide a monthly status report to the COR that includes the status of the project, issues that affect the schedule and budget, and an updated schedule based on the information at hand.

Period of Performance The period of performance for the design portion of this contract is from the date of contract award to Mar 15, 2024. Fabrication of exhibits completed by Sep 15, 2024. Installation of exhibits shall be completed no later than Dec 15, 2024. The installation deadline for exhibits may be extended if construction of the new visitor center facility is delayed. Vendor is responsible for storage of exhibits prior and up to installation.

Submittal Requirements Design Review All design submittals shall be completed in accordance with this Statement of Work. The government will review 100% of every design submittal (10%, 35%, 65%, and 95%) for compliance with the Statement of Work. One compiled set of USFWS review comments shall be provided to the Contractor at the end of each review by the COR.

The contractor shall coordinate all submittals and review them for legibility, accuracy, completeness, and compliance with contractual requirements. All submittals shall be forwarded to the COR for review and approval. The contractor shall take appropriate action to address the Service’s review comments. The submittal approvals or rejections by the COR, are as follows:

1. Approved Submittals – The contractor shall ensure that all changes, revisions, or additions required by review comments are addressed and incorporated into future submittals.

2. Rejected Submittals - When submittals are rejected, the COR will notify the contractor, in writing, identifying the reasons for rejection. The contractor shall ensure that the submittal is completed and/or revised as required and resubmitted within the time scheduled by the COR. Reasons for rejection include:

a. Incomplete Submittals – Approval of the submittal is delayed because required elements are missing. The contractor shall submit all missing elements.

b. Unacceptable Submittals – The submittal is rejected due to poor quality of work or work that does not otherwise meet the established project requirements. The contractor shall submit new submittal(s).

Pre-Design Meeting

1. In Pre-design, the Contractor shall gain a clear understanding of the project’s history, the Service’s resources, and the roles of other project team members and stakeholders. Work in this phase focuses on preparing a solid foundation for all work that follows, ensuring that the project is logically structured, and its goals are understood and realistically attainable within the budget, schedule, and other specified parameters.

2. At the conclusion of the Pre-design meeting, the Service will provide any supplemental information and references needed for the Contractor to initiate the development of the interpretive themes, messages, topics, and text.

10% Design Submittal Requirements A. The 10% submittal shall show development of the information gained from the Visitor Center Interpretive Master Plan and design meeting/site visit. This submittal shall begin to document coordination between the interpretive designer and other disciplines. Any items that cannot be adequately described by words shall be shown in sketch form. Details or photographs may be used. The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR.

1. Interpretive

a. Drawings

i. Site and floor plan, and circulation patterns at various seasons and flow levels. Floor plans must be drawn at scale of 1/4"=1'-0".

ii. For interpretive elements, show and describe media prescription/formats (i.e., diorama, computer interactive, graphic panel) including type and level of technology or materials proposed.

iii. Provide the Research Plan

b. Complete the storyline, integrating themes and visitor objectives.

c. For interpretive elements, describe how media formats and technology relate to the storyline and to the visitor, including accessibility.

d. Describe the plan and schedule for research and interpretive text development.

35% Design Submittal Requirements Include all necessary information as required to enable approval of 35% design. This submittal shall consist of text and drawings with sufficient detail to establish scope and layout for all exhibits, including samples, outline specifications, and a detailed estimate of fabrication cost.

Any items which cannot be adequately described by words shall be shown in sketch form.

Details or photographs may be used.

1. Provide annotated 10% design Service review comments on action taken or comments.

2. Specifications - Include specifications as required to clearly communicate level of detail.

3. Interpretive- Improve upon the 10% submittal, the Contractor shall show further refinement of the interpretive program using narrative, sketches, plans, drawings, elevations, and study models.

4. Drawings:

a. Site plan: provide a comprehensive drawing with all interpretive elements by showing placement of exterior signs, exhibits, circulation patterns, and relationship to interior interpretive elements.

b. Interior floor plan: provide an interior floor plan with all interior interpretive elements (orientation and information in lobby space, exhibits, and how existing film/A-V programs shall be incorporated into the visitor experience) showing circulation patterns, proposed acoustical barriers, relationship to exterior interpretive elements, and other patterns or relationships as necessary to convey design intent.

c. Elevations/perspective drawings: submit elevations and perspective drawings showing proposed treatments for individual interpretive elements and their relationships with the site, architecture, and visitor use.

d. Layouts: provide graphic layouts to show the relationships and design intent of text and visuals for all graphic panels, the brochure, signs, and any other visuals requiring text, production-ready art, or photographs.

e. Rough pencil or other sketches of all proposed artwork including that for murals and art on graphic panels, brochure, exterior interpretive panels, and any other places where art or graphics shall be used.

f. Indicate the visitor center building HVAC duct work, emergency lighting, utility connections, etc., in relationship with indoor interpretive elements/exhibits.

5. Study models: submit study models proving the effectiveness of exhibit special effects, exhibits, or situations that are new creative approaches.

6. Description of materials and methods of fabrication: provide a description of all interpretive elements addressing how each type of object, technology, or system shall be constructed, whole or in part (i.e., computers - purchased "off the shelf" and Energy Star compliant, painted diorama - commissioned photo plus artist, etc.).

7. Special components: provide a listing of objects, artifacts, specialized equipment, photographs, or other items detailing:

a. Name/identification of item

b. Where item can be procured

c. If replication is necessary/possible

8. Scripts: Provide first draft of scripts for all interpretive elements. Scripts shall include all necessary information including text and sound effects descriptions and show authentication review by specialists and experts. Describe how the text relates back to the storyline. Text shall be edited to fit in the allocated design space. Draft text should readily communicate reading level and style for the following minimum elements:

a. All exhibits, including audio-visual and software programs

b. Orientation and information, including visitor center brochure, outdoor signs, lobby signs and exhibits

c. Show any exterior interpretive signs, including those at the visitor center gathering plaza or patios

d. Draft text, sound effects, and shot list for any exhibit AV productions.

9. Preserved animals (if required in design)

a. Name/identification of animal

b. Where/how animal can be procured – include permit requirements

c. Specialized equipment required for animals & where available

10. Curatorial requirements including preparation, special maintenance, security, lighting, lighting exposure, preservation, presentation, mounting, and pollutants:

a. For exhibits

b. For objects, artifacts, photographs, artwork, graphics

11. Preliminary lighting plan for interpretive elements and areas, including discussion of how daylight hours will affect visitor behavior and use, as well as physical effects on exhibits, including but not limited to specimens, photographs, panels, and video display screens.

65% Design Submittal Requirements

1. Include all necessary information as required to enable approval 65% design. The submittal shall incorporate the applicable 35% design review comments and include detailed floor and site plans, sections, elevations, draft specifications, and fabrication cost estimate.

2. Provide annotated 35% design Service review comments on action taken or comments by exhibit contractor.

3. Specifications- Include specifications as required to clearly communicate level of detail and perform accurate cost estimates.

4. Interpretive- Improve upon the 35% submittal, show further development of the interpretive program using narrative, plans, drawings, and elevations.

a. Drawings:

i. Interior floor plan: with greater detail than the 35% submittal, provide a floor plan showing integration of interpretive elements with other disciplines, including but not limited to lighting. Floor plans must be drawn at scale of 1/4"=1'-0"

ii. Elevations: revised, with revisions and greater detail as necessary

iii. Fabrication details: as necessary to detail instructions for areas requiring special treatment, atypical items, or components

iv. Layouts: comprehensive layouts for all graphic panels or other visuals, individually per panel and exhibit unit, to include text, visuals, computerization, software, audio-visual, objects, or whatever other item is to be included on or in the panel, unit, kiosk, sign, brochure, etc. Layouts are to be revised from the 35% submittal, with greater detail as necessary

v. Lighting plan for interpretive elements and exhibit areas.

vi. Provide changes to sketches for all proposed artwork

b. Materials: listing of interpretive materials, finishes, and color schedules, accompanied by color chips, material samples, and catalog cuts for all interpretive elements.

c. Special components: with greater detail than 35% submittal, and nearly complete, show selection of special components, objects, artifacts, photographs, artwork, graphics.

i. Name/identification of item

ii. Where item can be procured

iii. If replication is necessary/possible

d. Scripts: provide second drafts of all text, to include additions, deletions, or adjustments following authentication by experts. Text shall be very nearly in final form and fit in the design space or time.

e. Additional details for curatorial requirements of exhibits and special components.

f. Additional details for preserved and/or taxidermy displayed animals.

g. Draft Operation & Maintenance manual.

h. Checklist: Identify interpretive design considerations to each of the other disciplines (as noted in 10% submittal).

95% Design Submittal Requirements - Final Documents Review

1. Final drawings shall incorporate 65% design review comments and include floor plans, elevations and sections and details at scales to properly show all details. Floor plans must be drawn at scale of 1/4"=1'-0". Provide graphic scales on each drawing for each scale. Provide annotated 65% design review comments to show action taken. Indicate compliance with all previous project guidance, reviews, design criteria, and indicate total coordination of all design disciplines. All drawings shall satisfactorily reflect the coordination with the Service and any General Building Contractor for all design disciplines to avoid conflicts in concept, space utilization, and fabrication.

2. Specifications- Final specifications shall detail complete production requirements, including any special processes.

3. Interpretive- Building upon the 65% submittal, provide final fabricate documents for the interpretive program using narrative, plans, drawings, and elevations.

a. Drawings

i. Final plans and elevations

ii. Final fabrication drawings & details

iii. Production-ready art with production specifications for all interpretive elements, including production art, graphics, and text

iv. Special artwork sketches

b. Revised finish materials

i. Special components: final listing for obtained/replicated/produced items for fabrication and installation

ii. Computer software, simulations, interactive digital and audio-visual programs: storyline, treatment, and production specifications

iii. Specifications for all necessary equipment, controllers, power systems, and equipment racks

iv. Bibliography

v. Draft Operation & Maintenance manual

Fabrication Fabrication shall be completed in accordance with this Statement of Work and the completed and approved design documents. Government fabrication inspections at the Contractor’s place of business may be required at the 35%, 65%, and 95% phases. Exhibits shall incorporate "green" building materials, products, and design when possible. This includes the use of green materials in the design and fabrication of exhibits, using recycled and recyclable materials. Use of environmentally friendly paints, solvents and adhesives is strongly encouraged. Exhibits may be inspected, reviewed, and approved by the USFWS project leads and subject matter experts, during an on-site visit to the contractor’s shop at the 35%, 65%, and 95% fabrication phases, unless otherwise directed by the contract. Prior to the exhibits being transported for installation, the Service reserves the right to review and approve the exhibits at the 95% phase of completion. While awaiting transportation, the exhibits shall be stored at the contractor's facility in a well-ventilated space and where not exposed to extreme changes in temperature, humidity, and away from pests, vermin, mold, and dirt.

The Contractor shall:

1. Fabricate the exhibits, as designed by the contractor and approved by the Service.

2. All taxidermy work and preparation/preservation of plants and other natural items are the responsibility of the Contractor. Ultimately, securing hides, antlers, skins, plants, stone, etc., is the responsibility of the Contractor. The Service will assist the Contractor in trying to locate the needed specimens such as wildlife specimens or skins either in the Service’s collection, other government collection, or in private collection, but it is not the responsibility of the Service to provide all specimens.

3. Schedule Service reviews/checkpoints at the Contractor’s site or other fabrication (subcontractor’s) locations for Service inspection of the exhibit progress and quality at the 35%, 65%, and 95% stages of fabrication.

4. When in-person visits by the Service to the fabrication shops are not possible, provide photographs as work is completed so that the Service can verify that the work is being completed and to the quality specified.

Items Provided by the Service

1. Two black bear mounts, a variety of taxidermy and specimens that can be used for dioramas, displays, etc., current exhibit of “Swamp Songs” jukebox (needs to be rehabbed, but is a very popular), mounts and pieces from the “Wetlands for Wildlife” exhibit in Visitor Center.

2. Scientific and cultural references for wildlife, habitat, and/or landscape illustrations, as needed.

3. Existing public domain US Fish and Wildlife Service photographs and videos, for possible use in the project.

4. Detailed information regarding Service artifacts that should be considered for use in the exhibits (e.g., sizes and substrates, photos, information regarding the significance of the artifact, etc.)

5. Existing electronic map files and/or references for map development.

Fabrication Guidelines – Overall:

1. Exhibits shall be shop fabricated and delivered to the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center 4155 Suwannee Canal Road Folkston, GA 31537.

2. All exhibits shall include leveling devices, if necessary, to account for discrepancies in the ceiling or floor.

3. The Contractor shall use as little combustible material as is possible in the fabrication of the exhibits. All main partition walls of the exhibits must be of noncombustible materials or fire-retardant materials. The General Contractor must approve the use of any combustible material prior to fabrication. Work shall conform to all applicable fire and building codes and requirements.

4. Where equipment is installed which requires special protection (such as automatic CO2), the Contractor shall provide such protection. In exhibits that have a projection booth or house computer components and projection systems, or similar small potential hazards, CO2 or systems meeting fire code shall be approved by Building General Contractor and furnished by the Exhibit Contractor.

5. The Contractor shall provide, fabricate, and install all lighting and electrical items in accordance with all applicable provisions of the current National Electrical Code and all local codes and requirements. All electrical hardware and equipment shall by U.L. tested and approved by the Services Engineering Division.

6. Power supply for the exhibits shall be 120 volts A.C.

Installation Guidelines The Contractor shall furnish all materials and labor to transport the exhibit components to the site and shall unload and install the exhibits and those items considered basic support structures required for the exhibits (i.e., cabinetry and wall structures for dioramas). Work under this section includes all materials, carpentry, cabinetry, metalwork, woodwork, acrylic work, glazing, and application of finishes. All work areas shall be orderly and swept clean or vacuumed before the end of the workday.

The Contractor shall:

1. Install the exhibits on-site at the visitor center. The installation and completion of the exhibits shall be projected and scheduled. The CO or COR will be present during the installation to review progress and work, and to discuss solutions to any installation problems that may occur.

2. Provide As-Built drawings for actual installed exhibit floor layout.

3. Return to the Service all materials used as reference and/or to create the artwork for the interpretive panels and exhibits. All original artwork becomes the property of the Service at project completion. All photographs and other reference material shall also be returned to the Service or the original owner.

4. The Exhibit Contractor shall provide their cleaning equipment and materials such as rags, paper towels, cleansers, vacuum cleaners, brooms, trash bags and containers, and other equipment for cleaning the exhibit and work areas. The Contractor is responsible for removal of all waste materials generated during the installation from the facility and shall arrange for proper disposal of this material.

5. The contractor shall be responsible for repairing any damage incurred within the building or their work areas.

6. Provide a detailed operations and maintenance manuals and related training for the exhibits to the management staff of the visitor center.

Installation Schedule The contractor shall coordinate and confirm dates with the COR for shipment, delivery, storage, and installation of the interpretive media at the Service’s site.

Warranty All products produced and/or provided under this contract shall be warranted for a minimum of one calendar year from the date of acceptance for all parts and labor unless otherwise specified. If the product itself carries a higher warranty, that warranty shall apply.

Quality Control The contractor shall provide quality control to ensure that all elements of project work meet the requirements of the contract specifications and that all modifications are implemented.

The Contractor’s Project Manager shall provide routine inspections of in-house and subcontracted work to ensure it meets contract specifications and shall oversee the quality of work produced and implemented at all phases of the project. Any work found not acceptable or compliant with the specifications shall be corrected prior to inspection or review by the COR.

Attachments:

1. Concept Drawing

2. 65% Design

"DESIGNING A BETTER EXPERIENCE"

FAX: 850 763 0410

2424 JENKS AVENUE, SUITE B

PHONE: 850 769 3357

VBA DESIGN, INC.

ARCHITECTS AND PLANNERS

LICENSE NO. AR94000

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA 32405

Reproduction or electronic transmission of these drawings or any part thereof is prohibited without written approval of the architect, VBA Design, Inc. These drawings are protected by U.S. copyright laws and violators are subject to legal recourse.

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1. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ALL DIMENSIONS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ALL DIMENSIONS ARE TAKEN TO THE FACE OF THE STUD, CONCRETE OR CMU. 2. UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ALL INTERIOR UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED ALL INTERIOR WALLS ARE WALL TYPE W3. 3. ALL CASEWORK IS FURNISHED AND ALL CASEWORK IS FURNISHED AND INSTALLED BY THE GENERAL CONTRACTOR UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. 4. VERIFY ALL ON SITE DIMENSIONS AND VERIFY ALL ON SITE DIMENSIONS AND EQUIPMENT LOCATIONS. CONTRACTOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR REMOVAL OF ANY ITEM IN ORDER TO COMPLETE THE REQUIREMENTS OF REQUIREMENTS OF THIS CONTRACT. 5. MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ELEMENTS ARE MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL ELEMENTS ARE SHOWN FOR DIAGRAMMATIC PURPOSES ONLY. REFER TO MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL SHEETS FOR WORK. REFER TO COVER SHEET FOR PLAN SYMBOL DESIGNATIONS.

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AutoCAD SHX Text INTERIOR ELEVATION DESIGNATION DOOR DESIGNATION SEE SHEET A6.1 WALL TYPES - SEE 2/A1.1 NEW WINDOW - SEE SHEET A6.1 EXTERIOR ELEVATION DESIGNATION

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AutoCAD SHX Text DESIGN NARRATIVE The purpose of this project is to replace the existing Visitor's Center with a new structure and site development that meets the requirements set forth by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service. The new Visitor's Center building is scheduled to be a maximum of 6,481 square feet. The new building is a single-story structure. It is comprised on the following: 4” concrete slab on grade. concrete slab on grade. Wood stud framed walls. Cement board siding and trim. High efficiency windows. R-19 insulated exterior walls. R-38 minimum insulated roof system with standing seam metal roof. All the windows shall be vinyl and double pane insulated low-e glass for energy efficiency. The floor plan was developed based on the required sizes of rooms and relationships required between rooms. The shape of the building is based on a rectangle, limiting the exterior wall surfaces that will help in the building shell energy efficiency. Exterior building materials are selected that are not attractive to or edible by animals, birds, or insects. Exterior colors are selected based on compatibility with existing structures to remain. All offices shall have sound insulation in the wall from floor to ceiling. The Sales/Gifts store is located near the front of the building in direct view of the main desk if the staff is minimalized. The location of the store could be relocated if required by the review board. The store will be secured after hours. The Friends of Refuge office and store storage room are directly attached to the store. The wall between the Sales/Gifts store and the main desk is intended as a feature wall, with strips of wood reclaimed from the existing building staggered vertically to invoke the idea of trees. Reclaimed cedar from the existing Visitor's Center will be utilized for running base, window sill & stoop, as well as around the main desk at the focus wall, & as ceiling accent beam articulation in exhibit area. Sustainable materials include paint, ceramic tile, tile carpetry, resilient tile flooring & solid surface countertops. See finish schedule on Sheet A6.1 and specifications. The building needs to encourage use, but also not be an endangerment to the environment. Building shall have low VOC paints. Energy use of the building is a large concern, the building shall exceed ASHRAE standard 90.1. Increase ventilation effectiveness and prohibit the use of smoking in or near the building. Thermal performance is needed in the design and construction to provide comfortable interior environment in accordance with the code. Health and safety of the users of the building is a major priority for prevention of accidental injuries. The use of safety glazing as defined by 16 CFR 1202; provide in locations required by code, glazing areas subject to human impact, glazed in areas at grade and doors. There are concerns with the final user on ease of operations and ease of maintenance. The final goal is to provide a facility, equipment, and systems that are easily operated by personnel with a reasonable level of training for similar activities. Need to minimize the amount of maintenance required. The interior portion of the Visitor's Center shall have a mixture of high vaulted ceilings and ten-foot ceilings. The Visitor's Center has several exit doors in the front and back that are in visual contact from the Welcome Counter. This will promote safety and allow the visitor to feel free to access the entire facility. The exit doors shall promote access to all outside activities including trails and encourage the natural wildlife observation. There is a meeting room for visitor orientation, videos, classes, and lecture for up to 55 adults or children seated in chairs. Audio visual is also needed in this area to produce a pleasant environment for the users. The staff have a separate entrance, but still can enter through the museum portion if needed. The entire facility shall be handicap accessible with required high-low ADA approved drinking fountains. The mechanical rooms are located on exterior walls for ease of maintenance but is in the building to provide energy efficient central HVAC systems for the building.

AutoCAD SHX Text www.collinsarchitects.net

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FAX: 850 763 0410

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465 HARRISON AVENUE

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PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA 32401

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COLLINS & ASSOCIATES, INC.

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ARCHITECTS AND PLANNERS

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AA C000558

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TELEPHONE 850 769 3357

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DISPLAY

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178 SQ. FT.

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EXHIBIT

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2,080 SQ. FT.

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350 SQ. FT.

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OFFICE

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67 SQ. FT.

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MEETING

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823 SQ. FT.

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58" GYPSUM BOARD (MOISTURE RESISTANT @ WET LOCATIONS)

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SOUND ATTENUATION BATT INSULATION

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FIBER CEMENT SIDING W/ 7" EXPOSURE OVER VAPOR BARRIER

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FIBER CEMENT SIDING W/ 4" EXPOSURE OVER VAPOR BARRIER

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(2) LAYERS " 58" TYPE "X" GYPSUM BOARD (MOISTURE RESISTANT @ WET LOCATIONS)

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(2) LAYERS " 58" TYPE "X" GYPSUM BOARD (MOISTURE RESISTANT @ WET LOCATIONS)

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2-HOUR RATED UL DESIGN # U301

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EXTEND WALLS TO ROOF DECK

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SIDING

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