11. YXTK 13-1806 Togiak (20231115) Govt Responses.pdf

Question & Answer Batch 1, 9-29-2023

Solicitation: FA252123B0008

Project Number: YXTK 13-1806 Repair Electrical Distribution Lines Feeder 5, AAAF

Contractor Name: Togiak Logistics Services LLC

POC: David Roels droels@togiakmgmt.com

1. IFB Section __01 00 00 Paragraph __1.7__

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page 10

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Since this project is located OCONUS, is the requirement for a Florida General Contractors license applicable for this project?

*TRACES Response: Yes, unless otherwise noted by SLD 45 Contracting.

2. IFB Section __Solicitation Section C Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __5 of 54

Other (Specify) ______________________

Question:

Section C of the solicitation reads that the period of performance for the project is 660 days after the receipt of the NTP. Section 01 00 00, 1.17.1 states that the time from NTP to completion is not to exceed 357 days with an onsite construction not to exceed 297 days. Please confirm that

660 days is the total period of performance from receipt of NTP to project completion.

Government Response: Section C is correct at 660 days. The period of performance was updated from the specification information. The number of days identified in Specification

Section 01 00 00, Para 1.17.1 did not take into account the variable logistical timeframes associated with shipment of material from Port Canaveral to Ascension Island utilizing the contracted vessel that is limited to 5 sailings per calendar year. Further review by the

Government determined that it was appropriate to increase the total period of performance from the stated 357 days to 660 days. The stated on site period of performance of 297 should still be used as the basis for direct costs associated with on site performance. The Government will consider a no-cost revision to the period of performance to account for lead time and shipping if necessary, under the conditions of an excusable delay (FAR 52.24-10, Default (Fixed Price

Construction)).

3. IFB Section ___01 00 00_______ Paragraph ___1.17.2

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ____12_____

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Please provide the Microsoft Project 2007 schedule template required for this project.

Government Response: Reference SF 1442, Section C, Para 6. Although the reference noted is contained in the specifications, formats for the construction progress schedule and construction progress reports shall utilize the AF Form 3064 and AF Form 3065. Microsoft Project 2007 is not needed.

4. IFB Section __01 35 26 Paragraph ___3.8.1

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___72 of 264

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

In 01 00 00, 1.23.1, Page 14 of 264 of the specifications it is stated that onsite personnel will be available to assist in locating existing structures and utility lines. In 01 35 26, Par. 3.8.1, page 72 of 264, of the specifications the contractor is required to provide a third party to locate the utility lines in conjunction with the station utility department. On Sheet C-001 in General Civil Notes 1

& 2 it is required that the contractor locate the existing utilities, structures and other features that affect the work to be completed and notify the contracting officer of any conflicts. With the project location being OCONUS and on a remote island with limited resources and transportation, would it be acceptable for the locating activities to be performed by an in-house employee of the contractor with proper training and equipment?

TRACES Response: An in-house locator is acceptable given proof of proper training and equipment is provided, but compliance with all other provisions of 01 35 26, Part 3.8.3 are still required. Please provide resume credentials and equipment to be used.

5. IFB Section __01 00 00____ Paragraph 1.26.2____

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __16______

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

A) Since this project is located OCONUS, is the FL DOT standards just a reference for basis of design?

TRACES: FL DOT standards for safety will apply to Ascension AAF as best management practice as well as OSHA and USACE EM 385-1-1 requirements are directly referenced in the specification and are applicable.

6. IFB Section ____ Paragraph ____

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___E-002________

Other (Specify) ____Single Line_______________________

Question:

Provide specifications for new non-fused cutout switches shown on E-002 Single Line Diagram.

A) Are these independently operated non-fused switches?

B) Are they gang operated switches?

C) Ratings?

D) Type?

E) Are any accessories such as arcing reduction or bird guards required?

TRACES Responses:

a. Yes.

b. Yes.

c. 15kV, 200A

d. Loadbreak

e. No additional accessories are necessary.

7. IFB Section ___33 71 01.00 40 Paragraph __2.3.6

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___239

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Please clarify the following regarding the fused cutout switches:

A) What is the required BIL rating?

B) Are these required to be Load Break Type?

C) Are these single operated or ganged?

D) Are any accessories such as arcing reduction or bird guards required?

E) Insulator material types?

F) Other material or environmental considerations?

TRACES Response:

a. 110kV

b. Load break type

c. Ganged

d. No additional accessories are necessary.

e. Polymer

f. Stainless steel brackets/corrosion resistance.

8. IFB Section ___27 13 23.00 40___ Paragraph 3.1.9.h

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page 212

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Please clarify the material specifications for the lashing wire to be used. Is this to be Type 316, .045 stainless steel wire?

TRACES Response: Type 316, 0.45 SST lashing wire is acceptable.

9. IFB Section 33 77 19.00 40 Paragraph __2.1_____

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __248_____

Other (Specify) __Drawing E-501, Flag Note 11_________________

Question:

Specification for the MV SDS Switches calls for 316L stainless cabinets. Drawing E-501, Flag

Note 11 calls for 304L SS for the splice cabinet. There is no specification provided for the MV

Splice Enclosure.

A) Are we to assume the applicable sub-clauses of the MV Switch specification (specifically the enclosure and dead-break terminations) apply to the MV Splice Enclosure, i.e., using the

316L stainless steel?

B) If there is a separate specification for the MV Splice Enclosure please provide it.

TRACES Response:

a. Enclosure is to be 304L Stainless Steel. Refer to Key Note 11 on Sheet E-501 for basis of design and specifications. Submit product data for selected enclosure for Government review/approval.

b. No additional specification for MV splice enclosure.

10. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __5

Other (Specify) _Solicitation__________________________

Question:

The seaborne transportation guidelines have specific guidelines for palletized freight, 20 ft cargo containers and self-propelled equipment.

A) What are the dimensional and weight restrictions for that equipment and cargo that cannot be contained in a 20 ft shipping container?

B) This project requires a total of 150, 50' power poles, what is the sea transportation and material handling plan for loading and unloading these items at port?

Government Response: Asension offloading weight restriction is a maximum of 35 Tons.

Preference is 20’ seavans, but there is the ability to lift 40’ seavans. Maximum allowable weight for the loaded seavan containers (20 TEU (twenty foot equivalent unit)) is 15T (30K lbs). The vessel carrier does not use tri-axel chassis to move the seavans. Oversized cargo that will not fit into a seavan will be shipped as ‘flat rack’ cargo.

Offloading from the port at Ascension will be furnished by the base operations support contractor at no additional cost. Equipment and Material are taken to the staging area near the softball fields (Facility 12193), near the Volcano Club (Facility 1203).

Additional support will be provided by the Government at no cost to the construction contractor identified as station support furnished through the base support contractor (ABOS / Yang

Enterprises) to transport the concrete poles from the material staging area to the installation locations.

C) There will be the need for 20 ft containers as storage on the site throughout the project.

Will we need to provide them as part of our material loadout for the project? Will there be any transportation costs associated with these items? Is there transportation means on the island or at the facility for the transport and offloading of loaded 20 ft cargo containers at locations other than at the port?

a. Government Response: Storage containers will need to be provided by the construction contractor.

b. Government Response: Transport of construction contractor storage containers will be provided by the Government at no cost. Transport will be through the Ascension vessel.

c. Government Response: Offloading from the port at Ascension will be furnished by the base operations support contractor at no additional cost. Equipment and Material are taken to the staging area near the softball fields (Facility 12193)/Volcano Club (Facility 1203). Support will be provided by the Government at no cost to the construction contractor identified as station support furnished through the base support contractor (ABOS / Yang Enterprises) to transport the concrete poles from the material staging area to the installation locations. Any additional follow on movement will need to be requested and provided as station support through the base support contract. This method is available through proper advance coordination but will need to be limited to an as needed basis to avoid overburdening the base support contractor from their primary contract duties.

11. IFB Section 33 71 01.00 40 Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __231___

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Please provide the wind load and other specific design criteria for the concrete poles and aerial transmission lines / equipment that is not included in the current specifications or drawings.

TRACES Response: In accordance with Specification 33 71 01.00.40, Part 2.3.2 the required

Professional Engineer will make the wind load and other environmental determinations in accordance with IEEE C2. As the basis of design, 130 mph under the “Extreme Loading” scenario was used, but that needs to be validated by the Contractor’s P.E.

12. IFB Section __C Paragraph ___8.3

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___6______

Other (Specify) _____Solicitation______________________

Question:

There is a specific statement regarding diesel fuel being made available to the contractor for equipment used for the completion of the construction project. Is Gasoline available in the same manner for small engine equipment needed for the project that is not available in diesel?

Government Response: Only diesel is available through station support. Mogas or Unleaded fuel must be purchased on the local economy. There is only one source on Ascension located near Two

Boats Village. Fuel prices are set at £1.50 per litre at this time and opening hours are 1630hrs to

1830hrs on Mondays and Thursdays.

13. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___________

Other (Specify) __Engineering / Geo-tech_______________

Question:

A) What is the general composition of the subgrade soil and bedrock in the designated construction area?

B) What is the general soil depth above bedrock, around the construction area?

TRACES Response:

A) No geotechnical investigation information is available through TRACES; however, the

Gov’t may have historical information available. For information purposes only, the subgrade material will vary substantially due to the large construction area; however, typical subgrade will consist of a mixture of volcanic clinker and volcanic bedrock.

B) Since the design of the pole and their foundation is a delegated to the construction contractor per Specification 33 71 01.00.40, Part 2.3.2, the contractor is responsible for verifying subsurface conditions.

14. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Can you provide previous geotechnical report(s) for projects located in the areas near where the underground duct bank installation is required. This will help provide a clear understanding of the underlying structural conditions of the island to facilitate excavation and backfill calculations?

TRACES Response: Reference response to Question 13.

15. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

Other (Specify) ____General___________

Question:

Please provide local contacts for the following building materials on Ascension Island.

A) Ready mix concrete

B) Aggregate / 57 stone

C) Utility Bedding Sand

D) Clean fill dirt.

Government Response: Reference Attachment 15. These are two concrete mixes using Portland

Type IL and Portland Type II cement. These mix designs have demonstrated the ability to achieve 3,500 - 4,000 PSI. It will still be the construction contractor’s responsibility to ensure that the mix design used achieves the strength requirements as stated in project documents.

These designs utilize local aggregate. Sand and cement will need to be procured from U.S.

sources and shipped to Ascension.

Elements to be provided by the Government at no cost to the construction contractor identified as station support furnished through the base support contractor (ABOS / Yang Enterprises) areas are:

-#57 Stone for concrete (local aggregate)

-Red Hill Fill (local fill material. mining and stockpiling only)

16. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

Other (Specify) _____General

Question:

A) Is there Cellular phone and data service on the island or base that will be available to the workers?

Government Response: The local cellular and internet provider is Sure. https://www.sure.co.ac/

B) Will the Government provide broadband internet access for our business operation throughout the project?

Government Response: No. This is the construction contractor’s responsibility.

C) Is there commercially available broadband internet access that will be available for the workers / contractors?

Government Response: The local cellular and internet provider is Sure. https://www.sure.co.ac/

D) If the above are not available, will the Government allow us to install our own satellite based communication system?

Government Response: Starlink resources are currently being used on Ascension. The responsibility for setup and maintenance would be the construction contractor.

17. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __C-001_________

Other (Specify) ___General Civil Note 14

Question:

Civil General Note 14 Requires a Florida Registered Surveyor be employed for surveying and resetting of disturbed benchmarks. Since this is an OCONUS project is it acceptable to utilize employed team members for this task should they be properly trained, equipped, and competent to perform the work?_

TRACES Response: Acceptable under the conditions a resume of properly trained and registered surveyor is provided and approved by the Contracting Officer.

18. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ____C-501_______

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

Can we utilize engineered precast switch and equipment pads set in bedding sand, on 57 stone base, on compacted soil; for the transformer, splice cabinets and MV Switch cabinets as opposed to cast in place?

TRACES Response: Per specification 03 30 00, provide cast-in-place concrete pads with

ChromeX reinforcement for all concrete placed on Ascension. Precast concrete, fabricated state side, can use ASTM A615, Grade 60 reinforcement.

19. IFB Section _03 30 00_ Paragraph ____2.5.1.i

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page 139

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question: Will alternative dyeing methods for concrete duct bank be acceptable?

A) Can the appropriate color concrete stain / dye be surface applied post pour to the duct banks?

B) Powder dye on the wet concrete pour and trowelled into the surface?

C) Wet dye sprayed onto the surface of the finished pour?

TRACES Response: Per specification 03 30 30 section 2.5.1 (i). All above methods are acceptable as long as color is in accordance with APWA Uniform Color Code.

20. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___C-001________

Other (Specify) __Erosion and Turbidity Control General Notes, Note 2_

Question:

The drawings state that erosion control measures must be in conformance with the Final

Governing Standards of Ascension AAF and Other Local agencies. Please provide a copy of the

"Final Governing Standards" for Ascencion AAF and any other relevant documentation for required erosion control measures for the project.

Government Response: Final Governing Standards-Ascension Island included as Attachment

16.

21. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __E-404_________

Other (Specify) ___Facility 800 Power Sequence of Construction, Note 2_____

Question:

Note states "Existing Facility Generator and Portable Generator".

A) What is the anticipated load demand requirements for the portable generator?

Government Response: 60kW is what the installed Gen Set is at FN 800. It is unknown if the existing generator can be configured to fund the facility while the power is off.

B) Who is providing the portable generator?

Government Response: The construction contractor to provide their own generator. 60‐100kW.

The existing generator is owned and maintained by the Royal Air Force (RAF). The age and condition of this equipment is unknown.

C) Who will be responsible for fueling and maintaining the portable generator(s)?

Government Response: Reference response for item B above. The construction contractor will be responsible for maintaining. Fuel (diesel) will be provided as Station Support.

D) What is the operational schedule of Facility 800 while it is on generator power? (ie, 24/7 or other)

Government Response: Alarm systems are for the facility are required to be fully operational.

Power will need to be provided at all times.

E) How long will Facility 800 be allowed to remain on generator power to allow us to construct?

Government Response: As long as needed to complete construction activities.

22. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page _E-401

Other (Specify) ____Flag Note 6________

Question:

On Drawing E-401, For replacement of the existing transformer XFMR PM 5/12 feeding the

Xontec trailers. The replacement transformer will have to be placed so that it overlays the location of the existing transformer using existing secondary feeders and conduit. This placement will require de-energizing the feed to the transformer, demolition of the existing transformer and equipment pad, grading and placement of the new equipment pad followed by installation and connection of the replacement transformer before re-energizing the feeder.

A) How long will we be allowed to transition from old feeder/ transformer to new?

Government Response: The transition time to properly complete the process is acceptable.

There is no specific number of days that need to be met. Government expectations are to complete in the shortest timeframe needed.

B) Are there critical systems fed from this transformer that will need to be provided temporary power during the portion of the construction timeline that will require a full shutdown of the feed from this transformer location?

Government Response: No Mission Critical loads are on this transformer, but the trailers are living quarters for on-island personnel and will need to be provided power on a 24/7 basis.

a. If so, what load will need to be accounted for?

Government Response: 550kW generator set - 120/240 volt Hz

b. If so, who will provide the temporary generator?

Government Response: Temporary generators will need to be furnished by the construction contractor. The type and size to be provided is ultimately the construction contractor’s decision, however the Government recommends at least one 100kW generator with multi voltage.

23. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __C-001_____

Other (Specify) ___Erosion Control General Notes, Note 10_____

The note requires stabilization of excavated soils.

A) Please provide the written standards for the facility, for the purpose of stabilization of excavated and backfilled soils.

B) Are there any standard grass seeds, traditionally used for erosion control, any specifically prohibited for use on the island as erosion control / stabilization planting? Or will you provide a published standard of acceptable materials and methods?

Government Response: Final Governing Standards-Ascension Island included as Attachment 16

24. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __E-404____

Other (Specify) __Note #9_______

Question:

There appears to be missing details regarding the new FOC entering Facility 12240. Should note

9 be amended to state that the 12-Str FOC in the 12240 Facility is to be terminated into an existing patch panel?

TRACES Response: Correct. The 12-strand FOC will terminate into existing patch panel.

25. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __E-404, E-405, E-407, E-410

Other (Specify) ___Existing Fiber Optics Patch Panels in affected buildings.

Question:

In Sequence of Construction Note 6 it states to remove existing fiber optic cable from patch panel and install new fiber optic cable.

A) Please provide the model numbers of the existing fiber optic patch panels and associated termination assemblies in each of the following buildings.

a. Building 12240

b. ISP Sure Facility

c. Building 12225

d. Building 16545

B) Please provide pictures of the existing equipment to assist in our evaluation and preliminary estimating work prior to the site visit.

Government Response: All four facilities (a-d) are the same. Reference Attachment 20, Photos, Fiber Wall Mount Distribution Cabinets.

26. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __E-405____

Other (Specify) ____Note #2______

Question:

There appear to be missing details regarding the new FOC entering the ISP Sure Facility. Should note 2 be amended to state that the 48-Str FOC in the ISP Sure Facility is to be terminated into an existing patch panel?

TRACES Response: Flag Note 2 states to connect new fiber optic cables to existing patch panel.

27. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page Various Electrical Drawings

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Question:

The specified TII, Model 1581P2, Building Entrance Protector for copper termination in the facilities is discontinued. The manufacturer is recommending TII, Model 1525 or 1525GT (with factory installed modules) as the replacement for the specified unit.

A) Does the installation require the factory installed protection modules?

B) Is this an acceptable alternative to the specified equipment?

Government Response: Any deviation from the specifications will require Government review and approval. If the specified item is discontinued generally the Government would defer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

28. IFB Section __01 00 00______ Paragraph ___1.34____

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page ___21________

Other (Specify) ___________________________

Solid Waste Disposal section states that Non-hazardous waste is disposed of at the Area 5000

Construction Debris Landfill. Any hazardous waste must be put in contractor supplied containers as appropriate.

A) Where is the Area 5000 Construction Debris Landfill on the site / island?

B) Will the demoed wooden power poles be accepted for disposal at the Area 5000

Construction Debris Landfill?

C) Will the cabling being removed during the course of the project be accepted for disposal at the Area 5000 Construction Debris Landfill?

D) Will the non-reusable excavated materials from the project be accepted at the Area 5000

Construction Debris Landfill?

E) What means and methods are available at the Area 5000 Construction Debris Landfill for offloading of materials?

Government Response: None. All waste debris will be disposed of locally in the landfill.

Offloading responsibility of the construction contractor.

29. IFB Section __________ Paragraph _________

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page __E-410___

Other (Specify) ___Scale Discrepancy____

Question:

The scale notes for N-410, Radar Facility Detail on sheet E-410 is shown as 1” = 40’ and the

Graphical Scale shows 1” = 30’. Initial cross reference measurements show that the drawing scale should be shown as 1” = 30’, Is this the accurate scale that should have been noted on this drawing?

TRACES Response: Scale should have read as 1”=30’

30. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page E-502

Other (Specify) Typical Communication Handhole Detail

The handhole schedule with detailed sizing information or a typical size is not listed in the drawings or specifications. Please provide the schedule for the handhole sizes or sizing guidelines based on the cabling installations specified for the project.

TRACES Response: Reference response to Question 33.

*Designer of Record (DOR) is represented as ‘TRACES’

Question & Answer Batch 2, 10/06/2023

Project Number: YXTK 13-1806 Repair Electrical Distribution Lines

Feeder 5, AAAF

Contractor Name: Togiak Logistics Services

POC: David Roels

31. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page C-001

Other (Specify) General Civil Note 15

Question:

Drawing C-001, General Civil Note 15 leads us to believe that there are potentially other public utilities in the area of construction other than indicated on the drawings. What other utilities are in the construction area other than what is drawn?

*TRACES Response: Portions of the project are outside of the Ascension AAF Main Base area and therefore will require coordination with other island utility providers to ensure conflicts do not exist. Coordinate with local base operations contractor for more information on utility services.

32. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page C-502

Other (Specify) Typical Duct Line Drainage Detail

Question:

On C-502, Typical Duct Line Drainage Detail is an exterior building penetration. Please provide the applicable detail.

TRACES Response: Typical Duct Line Drainage Detail is provided on sheet C-501. Ensure conduit drains away from buildings as shown on C-501.

33. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) Electrical Drawings

Question:

There is no designation shown for the sizing of the communications handholes for this project.

Please provide the schedule for the communications handholes including sizing and desired orientation.

TRACES Response: Communication handholes are to be minimum 4’x4’x4’. Orientation of each handhole is shown in drawings.

34. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page C-501

Other (Specify)

Question:

On C-501, Typical Duct Entrance to Manhole Detail indicates that #5 rebar from duct bank embedded in the manhole. On the same drawing the typical duct bank details do not indicate rebar installed in the duct banks.

A) Please verify that rebar is only required at the connection of the duct bank to manhole as indicated in a dowel pin configuration to prevent movement.

TRACES Response: Rebar is only required at the connection of the duct bank to manhole per the

Typical Duct Entrance to Manhole Detail on sheet C-501.

35. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page Various

Other (Specify)

Drawing C-501 indicates that the communications duct bank and trench are 4", 2-way conduit configuration. Drawing E-001 Communication General Note 1 that states New Underground

Communication cables must be routed through 4” conduits. Note 9 states to provide a 4” RGS conduit riser to transition from underground to overhead. Drawing C-402, Flag note 4; Drawing

C-405, flag note 3; Drawing C-406, flag note 3; Drawing C-407, Flag Note 1; Drawing C-408, flag note 2, Drawing C-409, flag note 1, Drawing C-410, flag note 1, Drawing C-414, flag note

3; Drawing C-415, flag note 2; Drawing C-417, flag note 3; Drawing C-418, flag note 2;

Drawing C-423, flag note 3; Drawing C-424, flag note 3; Drawing C-430, flag note 3; all indicate the installation of 5" PVC pipe in all of the communications ducts with the 2 way configurations indicated throughout the electrical drawings. Our cable fill calculations indicate that the 900 pair copper would be code legal in 4"conduit, but our recommendation for best practices is to use 5" for a cable of this size. This will prevent damage to the cable during installation. We foresee two viable options listed below for this issue. Please indicate your specified solution.

A) All the communication cable ducts for the 900 pr copper communication cables and 144 strand fiber to be 5" in a 2-way configuration while all others allowed to be 4" 2-way configuration.

B) All communications conduit pathways be 5” PVC in a 2-way configuration.

TRACES Response: UFC requirement is for a minimum of 4” and is the design intent; however, this is a minimum and if 5” facilitates constructability it is acceptable.

36. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page E-409

Other (Specify) Transmitter Enlarged Plan, L/E-409

Question:

There are sections / details missing from this enlarged plan. Flag notes 8, 9, 10, and 12 indicate work to be completed on Facility 41011 but the representation of the structure is missing. Please provide the complete drawing.

TRACES Response: Will revise drawings to include backgrounds. Incorporated as Attachment

37. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) 27 13 23.00, 2.4

Question:

The fiber optic cable specifications for underground and arial cable match on a technical level.

The only specification exception that we note, is the color of the outer sheathing. The orange color sheathing is normally the standard for direct burial cable, not in conduit to provide visibility of the buried conductor. Can we utilize the cable specified for overhead in place of the underground specified material, while maintaining the appropriate fiber counts, to potentially reduce splice counts and maintain signal strength?

Government Response: Typically buried/underground comm cable is filled with an encapsulant that keeps water out of the cable if the cable sheath gets damaged. Using filled cable designed for direct buried /underground in an aerial application is prohibited due to the encapsulant being considered a safety hazard to workers.

38. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) General

Question:

We assume that existing Transformer PM 5/12 will be turned over to base personnel for attic stock once removed from the medium voltage distribution system. Please confirm.

Government Response: Transformer will be turned over to the Government. Reference SF

1442, Section C, Para 9, Excess Material. Contractor shall turn over all excess material using the

DD Form 1149. Turn over will be coordinated through the Contracting Officer.

39. IFB Section 4 Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page 5

Other (Specify) Solicitation / Transportation of Materials

Question:

A) Will materials and equipment transferred to the Government at Patrick SFB, for transport to Ascension Island AAF be covered by Government Insurance from the time it is delivered for transport, until receipt by the contractor at Ascension Island AAF?

B) Is this coverage valid for outgoing Sea and Air Shipments to Ascencion Island AAF?

C) Is this coverage valid for retrograde Sea and Air Shipments returning to Patrick SFB?

Government Response: The shipments are self-insured by the carrier. There there is a process in order to submit a claim should damage occur while in-transit IAW Defense Transportation

Regulation (DTR) Part II, Chap 210 (Transportation Discrepancy Report), paragraph O.

USC9 is the contract used for the sailings. Below is an exert from USC9 contract about claims:

2.1.5 Increased Liability for Lost or Damaged Cargo. Lost or Damaged Cargo. The contractor is required to deliver cargo to final destination in the same condition it was tendered by the shipper.

The contractor is liable for cargo that is lost, damaged, or in any way altered from the tendered condition. For all bookings, the contractor is liable for lost or damaged cargo up to the COGSA liability limitation, or the actual amount of the loss or damage to the cargo, whichever is less.

Should a shipper desire to declare the value of its booked cargo in an amount greater than the

COGSA liability limitation, the shipper will order the “increased value” at the time of booking and a one time only (OTO) rate will be solicited in accordance with Exhibit Four for the additional coverage.

2.1.6 A “booking” covers all cargo booked under a single PCFN and the contractor is liable to the shipper for lost or damaged cargo up to the amount declared in the booking, or the actual value of the lost cargo, whichever is less.

2.1.7 Notice. Government claims shall be submitted to the contractor within 3 years of the accrual of a claim. However, the Government will take all reasonable steps to provide notice of loss as soon as it is discovered.

Coverage is valid for all cargo shipped using the contracted vessel.

*Designer of Record (DOR) is represented as ‘TRACES’

Question & Answer Batch 3, 11-15-2023

Project Number: YXTK 13-1806 Repair Electrical Distribution Lines

Feeder 5, AAAF

Contractor Name:

POC:

40. IFB Section 26 08 00 Paragraph 1.3.1

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page 180

Other (Specify) Quality Assurance

Question:

The section requires qualified testing organization to provide inspection, testing, calibration, and adjustment of the electrical distribution system. Since this is an island / remote location with limited access to resources and it is costly to bring in third party resources.

A) Is it acceptable for the contractor to self-perform this following NETA protocols?

B) Will the submission and qualification processes be amended accordingly for the technician?

Government Response: It is acceptable for the contractor to self-perform the NETA protocols if the contractor submits a plan with procedures that is approved by the Government.

41. IFB Section 01 57 19 Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page C-001

Other (Specify) Civil General Note 31

Question:

Sheet C-001, Civil General Notes, 31 references Specification 01 57 19 which does not exist in the documents provided with the solicitation. Please provide the missing specification sections.

Government Response: Refer to Specification 01 00 00 Section 1.27 through 1.34 for environmental requirements.

42. IFB Section Paragraph

Other (Specify) Shipping

Question:

What is the available volume / weight limit per load / voyage, that we will get for material and equipment for this project?

Government Response: No cargo restrictions exist for downrange vessel shipments.

Material/equipment shipment will need to be forecasted within the contractor construction schedule. This will allow the Shipping & Receiving Section to identify the next vessel according to the current schedule and coordinate with the carrier to ensure a vessel is used that can meet the capacity of shipments.

43. IFB Section Paragraph

Other (Specify) Shipping

Question:

Will we be able to have oversized containers / open style containers for the manholes to be shipped in due to the outside dimensions of 9’?

Government Response: Oversized cargo will be shipped as ‘flat rack’ on the deck of the vessel.

44. IFB Section Paragraph

Other (Specify) Shipping

Question:

Are there any special shipping requirements for moving the 50 ft concrete utility poles? (Note:

they are 8000# ea.)

Government Response: Reference SF 1442, Section C, Para 4.1.2 (Oversized Sealift Cargo).

Cargo that cannot be loaded into a 20' SEAVAN will be coordinated with the Shipping &

Receiving Section to be booked for the next vessel (DD Form 1149). After this process is completed with an agreed to date with the vessel port stevedores, the construction contractor will coordinate delivery of the oversized cargo directly to Port Canaveral

45. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page C.001

Other (Specify) Concrete Note #2

Question:

We understand that there is a concrete mix used on the island that utilizes local volcanic rock aggregate. Please provide the specified mix design that matches the required specifications for the project so that we can determine the volumes of Portland cement and sand that will need to be imported to the island.

Government Response: Reference Attachment 15. These are two concrete mixes using Portland

Type IL and Portland Type II cement. These mix designs have demonstrated the ability to achieve 3,500 - 4,000 PSI. It will still be the construction contractor’s responsibility to ensure that the mix design used achieves the strength requirements as stated in project documents.

46. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) Concrete Mix Plant

Question:

Please provide guidance on the operation and availability of the concrete mix plant and the concrete trucks provided by the government.

Government Response: Correct. Specification 01 00 00, Para 1.4.2. shall take precedence and will need to be followed for the purposes of contract performance, whereas all equipment shall be furnished by the construction contractor. Access to Government equipment will be very limited. The areas identified as station support furnished through the base support contractor

(ABOS / Yang Enterprises) areas are:

-Transport of concrete poles from the material staging area to the installation locations

-#57 Stone for concrete (local aggregate)

-Red Hill Fill (local fill material. mining and stockpiling only)

An alternative approach may be to contact the Asension Island Government for availability of equipment. That arrangement is at the discretion of the construction contractor and is made directly between the construction contractor and AIG. Their resources are limited for outsourcing. Contact for AIG is Kitty George, Shipping and Operations Officer, kitty.george@ascension.gov.ac

47. IFB Section Paragraph

Other (Specify) Concrete Issuance

Question:

During the site visit it was mentioned that there was a possibility that the US Government would procure the raw materials and operate the concrete mix plant under a separate contract to free issue concrete to the contractor for this project. What decision has been made regarding this discussion?

Government Response: Reference response for Item 46.

48. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) Emergency Medical Treatment / Transport

Question:

Please explain the framework / procedural guidelines for emergency medical treatment that would require medivac off the island to the nearest major hospital facility and the expected timeline for that air transport.

Government Response: The construction contractor is responsible for meeting the requirements of FAR clause 52.228-3, Workers Compensation Insurance (Defense Base Act). The specifics of medical emergency flights would be the responsibility of the construction contractor to coordinate with the provider. The Government would provide assistance with flight clearances through personnel on Ascension for aircraft landing/departure.

49. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) Emergency Medical Treatment / Transport

Question:

Will we need to provide emergency medical transport insurance to cover all of our workers / subcontractors for the course of the project?

Government Response: Yes. The construction contractor is responsible for meeting the requirements of FAR clause 52.228-3, Workers Compensation Insurance (Defense Base Act).

50. IFB Section Paragraph

Other (Specify) Retrograde Shipment of Equipment

Question:

Please explain the timelines and process for retrograde shipments of equipment and tools to Port

Canaveral for return to the leasing company. This is required as we plan the lease / rental timelines and expenses associated for all equipment required for the completion of this project.

Government Response: Reference SF 1442, Section C, Para 4.3 Retrograde Shipments. The request for return of equipment will need to be processed through the Ascension base operations support contractor (ABOS / Yang Enterprises) Shipping and Receiving section no later than the cutoff date on the vessel shipping schedule (note the cargo cutoff date is the same for both southbound and northbound shipments). Once processed through Shipping and Receiving the equipment will be kept at their designated shipping area. The construction contractor will no longer have access to the equipment. Because each Ascension vessel is contracted as a stand alone procurement through USTRANSCOM there may be instances where there is not enough return cargo for the carrier to accept the items for return. The items may have to wait until the next scheduled vessel when there is sufficient cargo for the carrier to accept. In other instances, the vessel may take the return cargo but make other stops on the way back to Port Canaveral which extends their return sailing time. Historical retrograde shipment information ranges from

2 to 8 months from when the equipment is manifested for return to actual return at Port

Canaveral.

51. IFB Section Paragraph

SOW/Technical Specification/Drawings paragraph/page

Other (Specify) RF Exposure

Question:

Please explain the RF exposure hazards and mitigation means specific to the area of construction, that we will need to address throughout the extent of the construction project.

Government Response: RF exposure hazards will be negligible. There is no risk of exposure at ground level. Operations that generate a RF exposure hazard are infrequent and occur for a short period (< 1 hour). Onsite personnel will coordinate with contractor to ensure worker safety.