F365144-22-0000016-SOW-Rock Island Shrine FY22.pdf

Rock Island National Cemetery FY 2021 Shrine

Headstone Raise/Realign and Turfgrass Renovation Project

MAP OF ROCK ISLAND NATIONAL CEMETERY

B.1 WORK STATEMENT

a. INTRODUCTION:

This service contract for Rock Island National Cemetery is for headstone/grave marker raise, lower, realignment, reset, and backfill services and turfgrass renovation services. Rock Island National Cemetery is located at Rock Island

Arsenal, Rock Island, IL, 61299-7090.

b. DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES:

The Contractor shall furnish all personnel, supervision, professional expertise, vehicles, tools, materials, services, equipment and quality control necessary to raise, lower, realign, reset, and backfill upright headstones (and possibly flat grave makers, if the add/alternative option is extended) with turfgrass removal and restoration at the Cemetery in a manner that will meet or exceed the requirements to present a clean, neat, professional, and aesthetic headstone appearance throughout the Cemetery in accordance with Contract Specifications and the Performance Work

Requirement Summary (PWRS). Services include, but are not limited to work consisting of extracting, resetting, aligning, backfilling, and compacting upright headstones that are already in place which have shifted out of vertical and/or horizontal alignment and plumb, as well as inventorying and assuring accurate placement on each gravesite, preservation of existing cemetery features (lawns, paving, roads, stones, and markers), restoration of cemetery features disturbed or removed as a result of performing new work, as well as, repairing, replacing, or reinstalling any damaged cemetery property, such that at the end of the day the condition is as good as before commencement of work.

Scheduling of services shall be coordinated with the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) to avoid disruption of ongoing cemetery operations. All work shall be done during normal Federal workdays during Cemetery workday hours. No work shall be allowed during special weekend, or Federal Holiday, activities.

Rock Island National Cemetery Shrine FY21 – Base CLIN’s

CLIN Supplies/Services Est. Qty

Reset, Raise, Lower, Realign & Backfill "Traditional" Upright Headstones in

Section 5.

2 Clean Upright headstones in Section 5. 982

3 Ground surface renovation and re- establishment of turf with sod in Section 5. 24,000

Rock Island National Cemetery Millennium FY21 – Option

CLIN Supplies/Services Est. Qty

Reset, Raise, Lower, Realign & Backfill "Traditional" Upright Headstones in

Sections L, Z, A, B, C, D, E, Old F, NW, Post, SE, SW, 3, & back of W.

7,409

Clean Upright headstones in Sections L, Z, A, B, C, D, E, Old F, NW, Post, SE, SW, 3, & back of W.

7,409

3 Reset, Raise, Lower, Realign & Backfill flat markers in Sections O & P. 2,657

4 Clean flat markers in Sections O & P. 2,657

Ground surface renovation and re- establishment of turf with sod in Sections L, Z, A, B, C, D, E, Old F, NW, Post, SE, SW, 3, back of W, O, P, Y, &

Confederate.

585,768

B.2 DESIGNATED CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE (COR): The Rock Island Contact

Persons are Lance Pridemore, Director, and Matthew Tomes, Foreman.

If work is authorized to be performed after hours or on weekends/holidays and an emergency should occur, the

Contractor shall contact the Cemetery Director in the absence of the COR. Be aware that Rock Island National

Cemetery closes at sundown each day.

SECTION C - DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS OR ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment – A Performance Work Requirements Summary

Attachment – B Guidance Specifications

Attachment – C Work Summary and Progress Report

Attachment – D Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR)

Attachment – E Work Assignment

Attachment – F Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)

Attachment – G Requirement that Headstones Never Leave Gravesites

Attachment – H Headstone Raise & Realign Initial Survey Form

Attachment – I Daily Headstone Raise & Realign Verification Survey

Attachment – J National Cemetery Quality Inspection Checklist

Attachment – K Gravesite Assessment

Attachment – L Turfgrass Renovation

Attachment – M Daily Headstone/Marker R&R Verification Survey

ATTACHMENT A - PERFORMANCE WORK REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY

1. The purpose of this exhibit is to:

a. List the contract requirements considered most critical to acceptable contract performance.

b. Show, where applicable, the maximum allowable degree of deviation from perfect performance for each requirement that shall be allowed by the Government before contract performance is considered unsatisfactory.

2. The Government's quality assurance procedures are based on actual performance of the contract and all areas will be reviewed periodically, (e.g. weekly, monthly, quarterly, and semi-annually).

3. The criteria for acceptable and unacceptable performance are as follows:

a. Contract requirements. The criteria for requirements are the level of performance deemed acceptable to the

Government.

b. If the quality of work does not comply with the contract requirements the COR will initiate and the

Contractor shall be required to complete a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR).

c. The CDR will require the Contractor to explain in writing why performance was unacceptable, how performance will be returned to an acceptable level, and how recurrence of the problem will be prevented in the future.

PERFORMANCE WORK REQUIREMENT SUMMARY

Performance

Objective

Minimum Acceptable Level

(MAL)

Desired Level (DL)

Performance

Threshold

(1)

Raise, level, realign, backfill and clean existing upright headstones

98% of all raised and realigned upright headstones are properly installed: a) Uniform in height of

25 inches (or as determined by the COR) above finish grade and horizontally and vertically aligned with inscriptions visible;

b) Installed to ensure a pleasing top line while compensating for ground contours; c) Aligned laterally in both directions and diagonally with the headstones on other gravesites; d)

Excavated, backfilled, and tamped correctly.

100% of all raised and realigned upright headstones are properly installed: a) Uniform in height of

25 inches (or as determined by the COR) above finish grade and horizontally and vertically aligned with inscriptions visible;

b) Installed to ensure a pleasing top line while compensating for ground contours; c) Aligned laterally in both directions and diagonally with the headstones on other gravesites; d)

Excavated, backfilled, and tamped correctly.

Maintained Between 98%-100%. No more than 2 unresolved CDR’s during a one-year period.

(2)

Clean existing upright headstones

95% of all upright headstones are properly cleaned. “Clean” under this contract means the headstones markers contain NO discoloration, environmental deposits, mold, mildew, moss, algae, lichen, dirt/mud, grass clippings, grass marks, bird droppings, etc..

100% of all upright headstones are properly cleaned. “Clean” under this contract means the headstones markers contain NO discoloration, environmental deposits, mold, mildew, moss, algae, lichen, dirt/mud, grass clippings, grass marks, bird droppings, etc..

Maintained Between 95%-100%. No more than 2 unresolved CDR’s during a one-year period.

(3)

Level topsoil surface, renovate, and re-establish turfgrass stand

95% of all renovated turfgrass is properly installed: a) Topsoil has been graded, leveled, and compacted to achieve a finished appearance that is smooth, uniformly level, free of all surface ripples, depressions, high spots, low areas, ridges. b) All irrigation components and sprinkler heads have been re-installed to finish grade and adjusted to provide full coverage with the best distribution uniformity. c) All turfgrass sod has been installed with all joints butted tightly together. d) All turfgrass is completely established and is uniform in color, leaf texture, and shoot density. e) Turfgrass is reasonably free of weeds, diseases and other visible imperfections.

100% of all renovated turfgrass is properly installed: a) Topsoil has been graded, leveled, and compacted to achieve a finished appearance that is smooth, uniformly level, free of all surface ripples, depressions, high spots, low areas, ridges. b) All irrigation components and sprinkler heads have been re-installed to finish grade and adjusted to provide full coverage with the best distribution uniformity. c) All turfgrass sod has been installed with all joints butted tightly together. d) All turfgrass is completely established and is uniform in color, leaf texture, and shoot density. e) Turfgrass is reasonably free of weeds, diseases and other visible imperfections.

Maintained Between 95%-100%. No more than 2 unresolved CDR’s during a one-year period.

(4)

Site and work area cleanliness

95% of areas being worked and the designated storage area(s) are free of debris and trash after one attempt to correct any deficiencies. Trash generated by other Contractors and VA maintenance activities is excluded.

100% of areas being worked and the designated storage area(s) are free of debris and trash after one attempt to correct any deficiencies. Trash generated by other Contractors and VA maintenance activities is excluded.

Maintained Between

95% - 100%. No more than 2 unresolved CDR’s during a one-year period

(5) Report

Submittals

Turns in all required submittals 95% of the time.

Turns in all required submittals 100% of the time.

No more than 1 missed submittal within an invoicing period

(6) Safety maintained during operations

No accidents or incidents due to contractor’s failure to take safety precautions.

No accidents or incidents due to contractor’s failure to take safety precautions.

No Tolerance

ATTACHMENT B - GUIDANCE SPECIFICATIONS

UPRIGHT (Section 1) UPRIGHT HEADSTONE RAISE AND REALIGNMENT, FLAT MARKER RAISE, LOWER, REALIGN, RESET AND BACKFILL (Section 2 below), TURF RENOVATION (Section 3 below), AND HEADSTONE CLEANING (Section 4 below).

The Contractor shall meet or exceed the requirements of this Guidance Specification in its proposed technical approach. The successful Offeror’s technical approach will be incorporated into the resulting contract.

Phasing and Work Sequencing: All work is to be accomplished in a sequential manner, with the raise and realign work limited to no more than one (1) row of headstones at any given time in order to minimize overall disruption to the cemetery. Work cannot begin in subsequent burial rows until such time that work has been completed in prior burial rows. The Contractor shall submit a proposed project work schedule sequence for COR review and approval prior to start of project.

1. UPRIGHT HEADSTONE RAISE, LOWER, REALIGN, LEVEL, BACKFILL

1.1. WORK OVERVIEW

1.1.1. Raise, lower, realignment, reset, and backfill services, defined as work consisting of extracting, resetting, aligning, backfilling, and compacting upright headstones that are identified in this contract. The process includes inventorying and assuring accurate placement on each gravesite at the cemetery. The contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance, professional land surveys, labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel, to provide the services defined herein.

1.1.2. The COR will determine the beginning point and ending points in each gravesite section.

1.1.3. The contractor shall limit headstone raise and realignment activities to one section at a time. Upon satisfactory completion of the headstone raise & realignment in that section and with approval of the COR/Cemetery Director, the contractor may proceed to the next section scheduled for headstone raise & realignment activities. After satisfactory headstone raise & realignment of a section and with the approval of the COR/Cemetery Director, turf renovation activities may commence in that section. Headstone raise & realignment activities will not be permitted simultaneously in two or more sections of the cemetery unless the contractor receives prior approval from the Cemetery Director or Cemetery Foreman/COR in writing.

1.1.4. Upright headstone descriptions:

1.1.4.a. Standard upright marble headstones are approximately 42 inches long, 13 inches wide, 4 inches thick, and weigh approximately 230 pounds.

1.1.4.b. Civil War type (older) upright marble headstones are typically around 35 to 39 inches long, 9-

1/2 to 12 inches wide, 3 to 4 inches thick, and weigh approximately 130 to 160 pounds.

1.1.4.c. Other headstone types may exist and are not included in the contract scope of work unless otherwise specified.

1.1.5. All in-ground vases, temporary markers, floral, commemorative, or other types of decorations

(arrangements) causing interference with the raise and realignment of upright headstone operation shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner, moved from and after completion of the work, moved back to all gravesites by the Contractor. Prior to removal, the contractor shall verify the numbering sequence and location of the headstone and associated decorations or vases. If the vases are in poor condition their replacement back to the gravesites can be waived at the approval of the COR.

1.1.6. Do not remove headstones from the burial section as part of this project. Headstones are to remain on their respective gravesites at all times. Headstones must be handled and stored on each gravesite in a dignified manner. The Contractor will coordinate with COR the appropriate method for temporary storage for unique situations and site conditions. Typically, this requires laying each headstone onto 4x4 lumber supports directly on each gravesite. The Cemetery will provide the following spreadsheet to record the names/locations of each specific headstone on each specific gravesite before start of any work. The contractor and cemetery will verify the locations of headstones prior to renovation work and after renovation work and shall sign the spreadsheet where indicated. All headstones will be properly placed in their sockets prior to the end of each workday.

SEC ROW

SITE

NUM DECEDENT NAME

DATE

OF

DEATH

Verification

Pre

Renov.

Post

Renov.

Instructions

Have QRPC download your gravesite information and sort by section.

Ask them to download into excel or into a text file with a delimiter such as a semi-colon.

If you get the text version, paste it into Excel and a simple "text-to-Columns" operation will put it into a format you can use in Excel.

1.1.7. Headstones shall be removed from their sockets using wooden and/or metal clamps. If metal clamps are used, the area that contacts the headstone must be protected with a rigid fabric that will prevent damage to and marking of the headstone. Clamps may be attached to a skid steer loader (i.e. Bobcat®) or similar machine to extract the headstone from the socket. When headstones are removed from their sockets, they shall be carefully stored on each associated gravesite. Use care not to scratch or damage headstones in any manner. The headstones shall be laid with front inscription side up while the headstone is lying horizontally on the ground. The headstone shall be protected from direct ground contact while lying horizontally. The protection method shall be as approved by the COR and shall be free of deterioration in weather. An approved method is to support each headstone with two (2) wood 4X4’s. Alternate methods can be approved. Cardboard shall not be used. Wood or other suitable appropriate and attractive material shall be used to keep the headstones from contact with the soil while lying horizontally during the construction period. Contractor shall be responsible for replacing damaged headstones and restoring all damages caused to turf during performance of this work.

1.1.8. Crushed Rock Base Material Specifications:

1.1.8.a. Crushed Rock shall be composed of limestone, granite, dolomite, or any other hard, sound rock that is produced by blasting and then crushing.

1.1.8.b. Crushed Rock shall be clean, hard, tough, and durable fragments (excluding schist, shale or slate) of uniform quality throughout and free of any detrimental quantities of soft, friable, thin, elongated or laminated pieces, disintegrated material, dirt, organic matter, oil, alkali, or other deleterious substance.

1.1.8.c. Crushed Rock shall consist of hard durable fragments of particles of rock, free of stripping dirt, vegetation, and other foreign substances. Hardness: Resistant to breaking, crushing or crumbling

1.1.8.d. Shape: Sharp and angular (Do not use rounded pea gravel.)

1.1.8.e. Gravel or Crushed Gravel mixed with filler, sand, crushed rock, or crushed stone is NOT an acceptable substitute.

1.1.8.f. Crushed Rock shall consist of the product obtained by crushing rock or stone so that is meets the following graduation requirements:

Sieve Size % Passing

Particle Size % of Passing

1/2 inch 100

3/8 inch 70 – 90

No. 4 50 – 72

No. 8 35 – 55

No. 40 14 – 32

No. 200 4.0- 10.0

1.1.8.g. The gradation of crushed rock shall comply with ASTM D-448. Sampling and sieve analysis shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D-75 and ASTM C-136.

1.1.9. Compaction of Crushed Rock Base Material:

1.1.9.a. The Crushed Rock Base Material shall be compacted in lifts not exceeding 1-1/2” in thickness.

Before compaction, moisten or aerate each layer as necessary to provide optimum moisture content. If the fines are dry at the time of compaction, use a very fine mist type hose and spray the Base Material sparingly. The moisture content of the material during placing operations shall be within ± 2% of the optimum moisture content as determined by ASTM D

1557. Compact each layer to 90% to 95% relative density. Do not perform compaction operations on excessively wet soils.

1.1.9.b. Tamping Tools: Shall be approved by COR prior to use. Tamping tools shall have sufficient impact area and weight to achieve 90% to 95% compaction of the Crushed Rock Base

Material. Tamping tools made of wood or containing wood (such as wood handles) are not acceptable.

1.1.9.c. The use of a backhoe to tamp as the sole means of compaction is prohibited.

1.2. UPRIGHT HEADSTONE SETTING.

1.2.1. The headstones shall be removed from their sockets as per paragraph 1.1.5. and 1.1.6. All headstone sockets shall be dug with a three (3) inch clearance at the front, back, sides and underneath the headstone.

Headstone sockets shall be dug to the required depth to meet the height and alignment requirements. All headstone sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed Rock Base

Material. Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material shall be added and heavily tamped to 90% to 95% compaction in the bottom of the sockets to provide a minimum three (3) inch footing under the base of the headstone prior to the re-installation of the headstones. Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material shall be placed around all four sides of the headstones and compacted per the requirements of paragraph 1.1.8, providing for a minimum fourteen (14) inches depth of Crushed Rock Base Material along the sides of the headstone as measured from the bottom of the headstone. Typically, there should be three (3) inches of space remaining from the top of the compacted Crushed Rock Base Material to the ground surface to allow tamped topsoil and grass seed to be applied. The actual measurement will vary depending on the how much the headstone was raised or lowered and shall be approved by the COR. See Exhibits (A) and (B).

1.2.2. Existing headstone sockets that exceed the correct depth requirements shall be filled with sufficient

Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material and compacted per the requirements of paragraph 1.1.8 to achieve the correct final depth. All headstone sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed Rock Base Material. After filling in the deep sockets in this manner, proceed with requirements in paragraph 1.4 for completing the headstone realignment.

1.2.3. In cases where headstone sockets need to be realigned/shifted, and/or re-dug, apply the following procedures:

1.2.3.a. After removal of the headstone(s), backfill and compact the existing socket prior to digging the new socket. Backfill the existing socket with Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material.

Thoroughly tamp to 90% to 95% compaction at each 1-1/2” inch vertical intervals (1-1/2” inch lifts), leaving the last three (3) inches at the top to have tamped topsoil and grass seed applied.

1.2.3.b. Contractor shall dig/excavate the new socket in accordance with the requirements in paragraph

1.2.1.

1.2.3.c. All headstone sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed

Rock Base Material.

1.2.4. The completed raised and realigned headstones shall be anchored firmly in place such that the headstones are rigid with no give or play in any direction regardless of the soil and terrain conditions. All headstones shall be firmly set and anchored in place with no movement from forces subjected by the COR.

1.3. UPRIGHT HEADSTONE RAISE AND REALIGNMENT PROCESS:

1.3.1. Prior to starting work in each burial section, the location of the existing permanent gravesite control markers and the required gravesite row/gravesite spacing layout dimensions shall be verified and certified by a licensed surveyor and coordinated with the COR.

1.3.1.a. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to validate and/or relocate any existing permanent control markers that do not conform to the section layout.

1.3.1.b. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to install temporary control markers where any existing permanent control markers cannot be located or are missing.

1.3.1.c. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to accurately and precisely install temporary control markers at the ends of each gravesite row.

1.3.2. Headstones shall be accurately adjusted and precisely reinstalled on the correct gravesites by utilizing temporary grave plotting maps, existing permanent gravesite control markers, temporary contractor installed gravesite control markers, and temporary contractor installed control markers at the ends of each gravesite row. All measurements, setting of string lines, and the layout of rows/columns shall be taken from existing or temporary gravesite control markers, and NOT from previously set headstones, unless otherwise directed by the COR.

1.3.3. The mean (or average) topsoil level shall be determined for the entire section to be aligned in all directions with assistance from a licensed surveyor and the COR, with approval by the COR. The Contractor shall use the mean (or average) topsoil level to allow all of the headstones in the section to be aligned vertically without having drastic changes in headstone heights (several inches) between the rows and columns of headstones in ALL directions. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all headstones and markers will be set at the proper height and overall level necessary to provide a smooth, flowing transition between ALL headstones in ALL directions through uneven terrain. The Contractor shall take the adjoining sections and/or terrain into consideration when determining the mean topsoil levels. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the headstones at a height other than at the required 25 inches above grade (or 20 inches for

Civil War type headstones) with approval by the COR. See Exhibit (D).

1.3.4. Keystone Placement and Installation

1.3.4.a. The headstone realignment process starts by the selection of specific headstones throughout the gravesite section to be designated as “Key” stones (or “Keystones”) for use throughout the remainder of the realignment process. Keystones shall be chosen and utilized throughout the section at a maximum spacing of every 10th headstone or at a more frequent spacing as necessary in areas of sloped or rolling terrain in order to achieve a smooth, flowing transition between the rows and columns. See Exhibits (C) and (D).

1.4. Each of the Keystones shall be permanently set.

1.4.1.a. “at the proper location and at the proper height using a licensed surveyor with the approval of the COR. The Keystones shall be laid out to the correct dimensions to match the required measurements for the section such that the rows and columns are evenly spaced. The vertical height of the Keystones shall be adjusted to accommodate the mean (average) topsoil levels throughout the entire section in order to achieve a smooth, flowing transition between all the rows and columns. See Exhibit (D).

1.4.1.b. All Keystones shall be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the headstone as necessary to achieve a height of 25 inches above the mean (average) topsoil level. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the Keystones at a height other than at the required 25 inches above grade (or 20 inches for Civil War type headstones) with approval by the COR.

1.4.1.c. The COR will approve of the quantity, location, height, and installation of the Keystones prior to the Contractor continuing with the realignment process.

1.4.2. The next step in the headstone realignment process is the Contractor selects a row and a column of headstones at the center or close to the center of the section to be realigned with approval from the COR.

See Exhibit (C).

1.4.3. Install heavy string lines along the back, sides, tops, and transversely of all applicable Keystones. The string lines shall be laid out to the correct dimensions as determined by Keystones such that the rows and columns are evenly spaced. All headstones shall be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the headstone as required to achieve a height of 25 inches above the mean (average) topsoil level. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the headstone at a height other than at the required 25 inches above grade with approval by the COR. These measurements shall be adhered to as closely as possible and may be adjusted to suit unique site conditions with approval by the COR. See Exhibit (C).

1.4.4. At the start of work in each burial section, the first row of reset/realigned headstones in each burial section shall be inspected by COR for appearance, spacing, depth, alignment, plumb, height, accuracy, and smoothness in grade transition. No further setting of headstones shall be done until this first row has been inspected and accepted by the COR. It is the Contractors responsibility to notify the COR 24 hours in advance of when each of these inspections will be needed.

1.4.5. All remaining headstones in all rows, columns, and transverse directions are then aligned. The installation, adjusting, and setting of the remaining headstones shall meet the requirements of section 1.3. See Exhibits

(C) and (D).

1.4.6. A plus/minus (+/-) 1/8-inch maximum tolerance shall be maintained in the vertical, lateral, and transverse directions. The alignment of the headstones should be checked frequently during this process because the tamping of the headstones may move the headstone out of level or off the mark on the line.

1.4.7. The measurements between rows or columns of headstones and between the headstones within each row or column may differ from one gravesite section to the next. This condition shall be discussed with COR where this is found to occur. Some variances may be allowed by the COR in order to keep a uniform appearance of headstones being aligned.

1.4.8. Any upright headstones broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR or the

Cemetery Director by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked.

The Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the headstone replacement. The cost of the replacement headstones will be deducted from Contractor’s invoice(s). All headstone replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any existing permanent gravesite control markers, temporary contractor installed control markers, grid or sectional monuments that are disturbed, displaced, or broken shall be replaced and properly reset by a licensed surveyor at the Contractor’s expense. Curbs, roads, walks, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the Contractor’s expense. The requirements of this paragraph shall be completed by the Contractor within fourteen (14) workdays, unless otherwise agreed to by the COR.

1.4.9. In areas where smaller than standard size headstones occur (Civil War type), coordinate the measurements, dimensions, and layout of these headstones with COR. Typically, the Civil War type headstones are set at

20 inches above grade and located by aligning the faces of the headstones along the rows and aligning the centerline of the headstones down the columns.

1.4.10. In the event a headstone is obstructed by a tree, roots or other foreign object(s), under the direction of the

Cemetery Director or COR, the contractor shall modify the headstone socket by removal of the obstruction or modification of the headstone up to cutting the headstone at the contractor’s expense. Pre-approval of the modification with the Cemetery Director or COR shall be required. Modifications shall be documented on the Attachment M: Daily Headstone/Marker R&R Verification Survey.

1.4.11. The Contractor shall remove all unusable dirt, rocks, roots and other types of objects from the cemetery grounds at the contractor’s expense

2. RAISE, LOWER, REALIGN, RESET, AND BACKFILL FLAT MARKERS

2.1. WORK OVERVIEW

2.1.1. This section outlines flat marker raise, lower, realignment, reset, and backfill services defined as work consisting of extracting, resetting, aligning, backfilling, and compacting flat markers that are already in place which have shifted out of vertical and/or horizontal alignment and plumb, as well as inventorying and assuring accurate placement on each gravesite at the cemetery. The contractor shall provide all supervision, professional advice/guidance, labor, parts, materials, equipment, and personnel, to provide the services defined herein.

2.1.2. The COR will determine the beginning point and ending points in each gravesite section.

2.1.3. Flat Marker descriptions:

2.1.3.a. Standard granite flat markers are approximately 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, 3 to 4 inches thick, and weigh approximately 50-70 pounds.

2.1.3.b. Some markers may be set in concrete and have a concrete border. Resetting, raising and realigning these markers will require alternative methods to achieve the desired alignment results as detailed in this guidance specification.

2.1.3.c. Other flat marker types may exist and are not included in the contract scope of work.

2.1.4. All in-ground vases, temporary markers, floral, commemorative, or other types of decorations

(arrangements) causing interference with the raise and realignment of flat marker operation shall be carefully, and in an orderly manner, moved from and after completion of the work, moved back to all gravesites by the Contractor. Prior to removal, the contractor shall verify the numbering sequence and location of the flat marker and associated decorations or vases. Decoration containers that are in poor condition may be removed as directed by the COR.

2.1.5. Do not remove flat markers from the burial section as part of this project. Flat markers are to remain on their respective gravesites at all times. Markers must be handled and stored on each gravesite in a dignified manner. The cemetery will provide the following spreadsheet to record the names/locations of each specific marker on each specific gravesite before start of any work. The contractor and cemetery will verify the locations of markers prior to renovation work and after renovation work and shall sign the spreadsheet where indicated.

SEC ROW

SITE

NUM DECEDENT NAME

DATE

OF

DEATH

Verification

Pre

Renov.

Post

Renov.

Instructions

Have QRPC download your gravesite information and sort by section.

Ask them to download into excel or into a text file with a delimiter such as a semi-colon.

If you get the text version, paste it into Excel and a simple "text-to-Columns" operation will put in into a format you can use in Excel.

Flat markers shall be removed from their sockets by hand or using wooden and/or metal clamps. If metal clamps are used, the area that contacts the flat marker must be protected with a rigid fabric that will prevent damage to and marking of the flat marker. Clamps may be attached to a skid steer loader (i.e. Bobcat®) or similar machine to extract the flat marker from the socket. When flat markers are removed from their sockets, they shall be carefully stored on each associated gravesite. Use care not to scratch or damage flat markers in any manner. Contractor shall be responsible for replacing damaged flat markers and restoring all damages caused to turf during performance of this work.

2.1.6. Crushed Rock Base Material Specifications:

2.1.6.a. Crushed Rock shall be composed of limestone, granite, dolomite, or any other hard, sound rock that is produced by blasting and then crushing.

2.1.6.b. Crushed Rock shall be clean, hard, tough, and durable fragments (excluding) schist, shale or slate) of uniform quality throughout and free of any detrimental quantities of soft, friable, thin, elongated or laminated pieces, disintegrated material, dirt, organic matter, oil, alkali, or other deleterious substance.

2.1.6.c. Crushed Rock shall consist of hard durable fragments of particles of rock, free of stripping dirt, vegetation, and other foreign substances.

2.1.6.d. Hardness: Resistant to breaking, crushing or crumbling

2.1.6.e. Shape: Sharp and angular (Do not use rounded pea gravel.)

2.1.6.f. Gravel or Crushed Gravel mixed with filler, sand, crushed rock, or crushed stone is NOT an acceptable substitutes.

2.1.6.g. Crushed Rock shall consist of the product obtained by crushing rock or stone so that is meets the following gradation requirements:

Sieve Size % Passing

Particle Size % of Passing

1/2 inch 100

3/8 inch 70 – 90

No. 4 50 – 72

No. 8 35 – 55

No. 40 14 – 32

No. 200 4.0- 10.0

2.1.6.h. The gradation of crushed rock shall comply with ASTM D-448. Sampling and sieve analysis shall be performed in accordance with ASTM D-75 and ASTM C-136.

2.1.7. Compaction of Crushed Rock Base Material:

2.1.7.a. The Crushed Rock Base Material shall be compacted in lifts not exceeding 1-1/2” in thickness.

Before compaction, moisten or aerate each layer as necessary to provide optimum moisture content. If the fines are dry at the time of compaction, use a very fine mist type hose and spray the Base Material sparingly. The moisture content of the material during placing operations shall be within ± 2% of the optimum moisture content as determined by ASTM D

1557. Compact each layer to 90% to 95% relative density. Do not perform compaction operations on excessively wetted soils.

2.1.7.b. Tamping Tools: Shall be approved by COR prior to use. Tamping tools shall have sufficient impact area and weight to achieve 90% to 95% compaction of the Crushed Rock Base

Material. Tamping tools made of wood or containing wood are not acceptable.

2.2. FLAT MARKER SETTING

2.2.1. Flat Markers shall be removed from their sockets per paragraph 2.1.5 and set in accordance with the following:

2.2.1.a. Flat Markers shall be set after the finished grade has been established by the topsoil surface leveling, renovation, and reestablishment of the existing turfgrass stand work of section 3.0, “TOPSOIL SURFACE LEVELING, RENOVATION, AND RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF

THE EXISTING TURFGRASS STAND” of this contract.

2.2.1.b. A twenty (20) inch wide trench shall be dug to the required depth to meet the height and alignment requirements specified in paragraph 2.3. The depth of the trench shall allow the reset flat markers to extend one (1) inch above the finished grade or topsoil surface level.

Typically, the depth of the trench will be approximately four (4) inches deep. Note: In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set at the proper height and parallel with the ground to provide a smooth, flowing transition between ALL flat markers in ALL directions through uneven terrain. The trench shall be dug under each flat marker row beginning at the edge of the first flat marker and continuing until reaching the far edge of the last flat marker in the same row. This trench is to accept a rigid, celled or honeycombed grass paving system such as MARKER-GRIDTM , or an approved equivalent product. If the Contractor proposes to use an equivalent product, submit product literature and specifications with proposal for approval by the Contracting Officer. See

Exhibits (A), (B), (C), and (D).

2.2.1.c. After the trench has been completed, excavate the soil directly below each flat marker to a depth of five (5) inches, four (4) inches outward from long side of the flat marker and six (6) inches outward from short side of the flat markers. See Exhibits (A) and (B).

2.2.1.d. Backfill the 36” Long x 20” Wide x 5” Deep excavated area with moistened Crushed Rock

Base Material heavily tamped to 90% to 95% compaction and leveled for the required alignment of the flat markers. All flat marker sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed Rock Base Material.

2.2.1.e. Compact the native soil in the bottom of the approximately four (4) inch deep continuous trench between the flat marker locations.

2.2.1.f. Install the continuous strip of grass paving system along the entire length of each flat marker row beginning at the edge of the first flat marker and continuing until reaching the far edge of the last flat marker in the same row. If the grass paving material must be spliced, this shall be done in accordance with the grass paving system manufacturer’s instructions. See Exhibit (E).

2.2.1.g. If leveling or adjustments to the grass paving system are required, do not adjust the grass paving system by filling just under the low edge or area. This will leave a void under the center or other area under the flat marker. Fill under the entire flat marker area and work out the excess fill to provide a full firm base under the flat marker.

2.2.1.h. Directly underneath each flat marker, backfill the honeycomb voids of the grass paving system with Crushed Rock Base Material to fill the one (1) inch high rings and all spaces between the rings, and compact this material into place. The Crushed Rock Base Material shall be flush with the top of the grass paving material. The flat markers shall rest directly upon the grass paving material and will act as a base for the flat markers.

2.2.1.i. Install the flat markers. See Exhibits (A) and (B).

2.2.1.j. Backfill the remaining exposed trenched areas around and between all flat markers from top of the grass paving system with a minimum of three (3) inches of clean topsoil compacted firmly into place so that settlement will not occur. See Exhibits (A) and (B).

2.2.1.k. When an existing grass paving system exists, the Contractor shall remove and dispose of the existing grass paving system materials and provide a new grass paving system as specified.

2.2.1.l. OPTIONAL INSTALLATION METHOD FOR FLAT MARKERS: At the Contractor’s option, the 20 inch wide trench as described in paragraph 2.2.1.b above may be dug to a total depth of approximately nine (9) inches to allow placement of the Crushed Rock Base Material through the full length of the trench. This process would eliminate having individual excavations under each flat marker. The depth of the trench shall allow the reset flat markers to extend one (1) inch above the finished grade or topsoil surface level. After the trench has been completed, backfill the 20” Wide x 9” Deep excavated area with moistened Crushed

Rock Base Material heavily tamped to 90% to 95% compaction and leveled for the required alignment of the flat markers. The trenched area shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed Rock Base Material. This optional installation method shall be performed at no additional cost to the Government. See Exhibit (B).

2.2.2. Existing flat marker sockets that exceed the correct depth requirements shall be filled with sufficient

Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material and compacted per the requirements of paragraph 2.1.7 to achieve the correct final depth. All flat marker sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed Rock Base Material. After filling in the deep sockets in this manner, proceed with requirements in paragraph 2.3 for completing the flat marker realignment.

2.2.3. In cases where flat marker sockets need to be realigned/shifted, and/or re-dug, apply the following procedures:

2.2.3.a. After removal of the flat marker(s), backfill and compact the existing socket prior to digging the new socket. Backfill the existing socket with Moistened Crushed Rock Base Material.

Thoroughly tamp to 90% to 95% compaction at each 1-1/2” inch vertical intervals (1-1/2” inch lifts), leaving the last 3 inches at the top to have tamped topsoil and grass seed applied.

2.2.3.b. Contractor shall dig/excavate the new socket in accordance with the requirements in paragraph

2.2.1.

2.2.3.c. All flat marker sockets shall be clean and free of loose dirt and debris prior to adding Crushed

Rock Base Material.

2.2.4. The completed raised and realigned flat marker shall be set and anchored firmly in place such that the flat markers are rigid with no give, play, or movement in any direction regardless of the soil and terrain conditions. All flat markers shall exhibit no give, play, or movement in any direction when subjected to forces by the COR.

2.3. FLAT MARKER RAISE AND REALIGNMENT PROCESS:

2.3.1. Prior to starting work in each burial section, the location of the existing permanent gravesite control markers and the required gravesite row/gravesite spacing layout dimensions shall be verified and certified by a licensed surveyor and coordinated with the COR.

2.3.1.a. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to validate and/or relocate any existing permanent control markers that do not conform to the section layout.

2.3.1.b. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to install temporary control markers where any existing permanent control markers cannot be located or are missing.

2.3.1.c. The Contractor shall use a licensed surveyor to accurately and precisely install temporary control markers at the ends of each gravesite row.

2.3.2. Flat markers shall be accurately adjusted and precisely reinstalled on the correct gravesites by utilizing temporary grave plotting maps, existing permanent gravesite control markers, temporary contractor installed gravesite control markers, and temporary contractor installed control markers at the ends of each gravesite row. All measurements, setting of string lines, and the layout of rows/columns shall be taken from existing or temporary gravesite control markers, and NOT from previously set flat markers, unless otherwise directed by the COR.

2.3.3. The mean (or average) topsoil level shall be determined for the entire section to be aligned in all directions with assistance from a licensed surveyor and the COR, with approval by the COR. The Contractor shall use the mean (or average) topsoil level to allow all of the flat markers in the section to be aligned vertically without having drastic changes in flat marker heights (several inches) between the rows and columns of flat markers in ALL directions. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set at the proper height and parallel with the ground to provide a smooth, flowing transition between ALL flat markers in ALL directions through uneven terrain. The

Contractor shall take the adjoining sections and/or terrain into consideration when determining the mean topsoil levels. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the flat markers at a height higher or lower than the existing terrain level with approval by the COR. See Exhibit (D).

2.3.4. Keystone Placement and Installation

2.3.4.a. The flat marker realignment process starts by the selection of specific flat markers throughout the gravesite section to be designated as “Key” stones (or “Keystones”) for use throughout the remainder of the realignment process. Keystones shall be chosen and utilized throughout the section at a maximum spacing of every 10th flat marker or at a more frequent spacing as necessary in areas of sloped or rolling terrain in order to achieve a smooth, flowing transition between the rows and columns. See Exhibits (C) and (D).

2.3.4.b. Each of the Keystones shall be permanently set in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 3.2 at the proper location and at the proper height using a licensed surveyor with the approval of the COR. The Keystones shall be laid out to the correct dimensions to match the required measurements for the section such that the rows and columns are evenly spaced. The vertical height of the Keystones shall be adjusted to accommodate the mean (average) topsoil levels throughout the entire section in order to achieve a smooth, flowing transition between all the rows and columns. See Exhibit (D).

2.3.4.c. All Keystones shall be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the flat marker as necessary to achieve a height of one (1) inch above the mean (average) topsoil level. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set at the proper height and parallel with the ground to provide a smooth, flowing transition between ALL flat markers in ALL directions through uneven terrain. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the

Contractor may be required to set the Keystones at a height other than at the required one (1) inch above grade with approval by the COR.

2.3.4.d. The COR shall approve of the quantity, location, height, and installation of the Keystones prior to the Contractor continuing with the realignment process.

2.3.5. The next step in the flat marker realignment process is the Contractor selects a row and a column of flat markers at the center or close to the center of the section to be realigned with approval from the COR. See

Exhibit (C).

2.3.6. Install heavy string lines along the front, sides, tops, and transversely of all applicable Keystones. The string lines shall be laid out to the correct dimensions as determined by Keystones and the requirements of paragraph 2.3.2 such that the rows and columns are evenly spaced. All flat markers shall be vertically plumbed and aligned by leveling the front, back, and sides while raising or lowering the flat marker as required to achieve a height of one (1) inch above the mean (average) topsoil level. In irregular terrain where sloping and uneven ground conditions exist, all flat markers will be set at the proper height and parallel with the ground to provide a smooth, flowing transition between ALL flat markers in ALL directions through uneven terrain. IMPORTANT: To meet the requirement of a smooth, flowing transition, the Contractor may be required to set the flat marker at a height other than at the required one

(1) inch above grade with approval by the COR. These measurements shall be adhered to as closely as possible and may be adjusted to suit unique site conditions with approval by the COR. See Exhibit (D).

2.3.7. At the start of work in each burial section, the first row of reset/realigned flat markers in each burial section shall be inspected by COR for appearance, spacing, depth, alignment, plumb, height, accuracy, and smoothness in grade transition. No further setting of flat markers shall be done until this first row has been inspected and accepted by the COR. It is the Contractors responsibility to notify the COR 24 hours in advance of when each of these inspections will be needed.

2.3.8. All remaining flat markers in all rows, columns, and transverse directions are then aligned in accordance with paragraph 2.3.6. See Exhibits (C) and (D).

2.3.9. A plus/minus (+/-) 1/8 inch maximum tolerance shall be maintained in the vertical, lateral, and transverse directions in accordance with the dimensional requirements of paragraph 2.3.2. The alignment of the flat markers should be checked frequently during this process because the tamping of soil around or near the flat markers may move the flat marker out of level or out of alignment.

2.3.10. The measurements between rows or columns of flat markers and between the flat markers within each row or column may differ from one gravesite section to the next. This condition is to be discussed with COR where this is found to occur. Some variances may be allowed by the COR in order to keep a uniform appearance of flat markers being aligned.

2.3.11. Any flat markers broken or damaged by the Contractor shall be reported to the COR or the Cemetery

Director by close of business each working day in order that the grave can be properly marked. The

Contractor shall be responsible for the cost of the flat marker replacement. The cost of the replacement flat markers will be deducted from Contractor’s invoice(s). All flat markers replacements must be coordinated with the COR. Any existing permanent gravesite control markers, temporary contractor installed control markers, grid or sectional monuments that are disturbed, displaced, or broken shall be replaced and properly reset by a licensed surveyor at the Contractor’s expense. Curbs, roads, walks, turf, trees, utilities, etc. existing above and below the ground that are damaged or disturbed by the Contractor during performance of contract work shall be repaired at the Contractor’s expense. The requirements of

2.3.12. In areas where smaller than standard size flat markers occur, coordinate the measurements, dimensions, and layout of these flat markers with the COR.

3. TOPSOIL SURFACE LEVELING,…