Replace Main Gate Sign - Question and Answers - 24 July 2025.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

AIR FORCE RESERVE COMMAND

24 July 2025

MEMORANDUM FOR: 914th MSG/PK

FROM: 914 MSG/CEC

SUBJECT: RVKQ 24-0007 Replace Installation Main Gate Sign RFI 001 Response.

1. -The spec calls for removal of current slab in place, however there is no slab. Could you please clarify or remove from scope of work?

- CEC Response: Verified 7/21 there is a concrete slab buried beneath the dirt that was hard to see during the site visit. Concrete removal will be required and will remain in the scope of work.

2. -For the design of the sign, could you please clarify if real or faux brick is to be used at the base of the sign? The change in cost for the two options is substantial and for the sake of all subs bidding this project equally, this should be clarified. This will also effect the foundation options/cost.

- CEC Response: Real or faux brick can be used. Faux brick must be weather resistant.

3. The subcontractor recommends downlighting rather than flood lights from the ground up. The reason is because of the large amount of snow we get during the winter months; it would hinder illumination. With lights on the top of the sign, pointing down, you would get light coverage year around. However, the downlighting does have an increase in cost, so for the sake of all contractors bidding equally, we would like this clarified. We can also provide an alternate price for the downlighting if requested.

- CEC Response – UFC 3-120-01 design calls for flood lighting.

4. Are we able to get a the “vector art” for the sign? The standard that was provided in the bid documents shows many options for size, logo and verbiage. The requested “vector art” would help clarify many design questions.

- CEC Response: Unfortunately, we do not have the vector art to provide. See provided picture for more detailed requirements. Font, color, size and logo requirements are specific in UFC 3-120-01 Design: Sign Standards. Chapter 2-2.1. Font will be Helvetica Neue – 95 Brushed Aluminum Finish for “U.S Air Force, Niagara Falls ARS.” Font will be Helvetica Neue 65 Medium Black Finish for “Main Gate” on footing.

Utilize sign dimensions below for above U.S Air Force Sign. Disregard all U.S Navy logo, lettering, hours and coloring. Only utilize the photo below for sizing dimensions.

5. It is recommended that the duration of the project is extended by all subs that attended the walkthrough. Please advise if this is agreed upon.

- CEC Response – After discussing with PK and contractors, it is in the best interest for a quality product to extend the project duration to 90 days.

6. Do you have a list of any preconstruction submittals needed for the project? Can that be provided so subcontractors have a good understanding of documents that need to be approved prior to starting work.

- CEC Response – It is recommended that prior to any construction, all approvals/submittals with the township are in place. Prior to any construction/digging call NY 811 due to the gas line and storm drain in the area.

Location:

1. The current sign is on the right of way on a county road. Who will secure permitting?

a. CEC Response: Base is securing permitting

2. The current sign is installed with two posts into the ground straddling a drainage culvert.

a. CEC Response: Two posts are to be removed during demolition.

3. The current sign is located next to a fuel gas line which will make it difficult to move back from the right of way.

a. CEC Response: The base is working with Wheatfield Township to get a Variance approved to install new sign in the same location as the existing sign.

4. It is highly unlikely that the County will allow a sign with a brick base in the right of way.

a. CEC Response: Pending Variance approval.

Power:

5. The power previously came directly from the pole and powered the sign. No meter was at the site. Who is taking care of dealing with National Grid to bring power to the sign and set up the meter etc. I assume that since the Base is the customer they will handle that.

a. CEC Response – Base is taking responsibility to getting power hooked back up Concrete:

6. There were no specification on the concrete. Advise

a. A single, unitary concrete slab shall be constructed for the placement of the new sign. The pad shall properly support the weight of the new sign. It is anticipated that the dimensions of the foundation pad will be approximately nine feet (9’) by four (4’) feet wide. Final dimensions will be decided by the contractor after sign and footing is designed. Concrete pad shall be long and wide enough to accommodate newly installed sign.

b. It is anticipated the slab thickness will be a minimum of six inches (6”) with an anticipated six inch (6”) gravel base. Excavate to ensure all organic soils are removed.

i. Minimum Compressive Strength: 4000 psi at 28 days.

ii. Maximum Water-Cementitious Materials Ratio: 0.40.

iii. Mix Proportions for Normal Weight Concrete

c. Foundation slab must accommodate soil conditions and consider effect of frost line. Ensure adequate soil bearing capacity is achieved.

d. Grade, level and compact subgrade in vicinity of foundation pad. Soil surface under foundation slab must be flat. Properly grade around foundation slab to achieve drainage while minimizing upslopes and down-slopes.

e. Stub up conduit through foundation slab for electrical connections for flood lights.

7. Does there need to be a 3rd party inspector for the concrete?

a. No 3rd party inspection required.