LNHP Track Platform Replacement RFQ No. 6913G626Q300004.pdf

VOLPE NAT'L TRANSPORTATION SYS CNTR

220 Binney St.

Cambridge, MA 02142-1001

*Inquiries and Quotation due dates located in Section L.2 and L.3

Solicitation Number: 6913G626Q300004

SECTION B- SERVICES AND PRICE/COST

B.1 CONTRACT TYPE

The Government contemplates award of a Fixed Price Construction contract in Accordance With (IAW) Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12 (as deviated by DOT FAR Class Deviation 2025-23) and FAR Part 36 (as deviated by DOT FAR Class Deviation 2025-14). This solicitation document and incorporated provisions are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2025-06, effective 10/01/2025. This acquisition is for rail trolley track system repair and maintenance services that are common in the Commercial Marketplace.

This contract is for the repair and maintenance of the trolley track system at the Lowell National Historic Park in Lowell, Massachusetts, as identified in the CLINs below. The Contractor, not as an agent of the Government, shall furnish all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, equipment materials, and management necessary to provide the services required under this contract as described in accordance with Section C.

*Offeror to fill in pricing table below and include with submission of technical quote

CLIN Services Quantity Unit Firm Fixed Price

Amount 00100 Remove Platforms 1 JB $ 00200 Track Repair 1 JB $ 00300

Re-install New Platforms 1 JB $

Total Price of CLINs $

SECTION C – STATEMENT OF WORK

1.0 Background

Lowell National Historical Park’s (LNHP’s) 2-mile trolley system has been in operation for 30 years in its current form. The trolley system is a small remnant of the historic trolley system from the era of the mills at the LNHP site. While the trolley system is currently in a general state of good repair, portions of the trolley system are reaching their end-of-life in which critical component renewals will be needed in addition to enhanced preventative maintenance activities.

The Contractor shall provide all labor, material, tools, and equipment to repair trolley tracks in way of four passenger platforms [Swamp Locks Station, Mack Plaza Station (Visitor Center), Moody Street Feeder House Station, and Suffolk Station]; replace ties from the heel block at switch to the last line tie (Suffolk to Wye track section); replace platforms, including all supporting structure, at each station; and replace the wood fence at Mack Plaza Station.

1.1 Existing Utilities

The Contractor shall notify the utility companies of proposed locations and times of excavations and other utility work to ensure smooth coordination of all operations.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for locating and preventing damage to known utilities. If damage occurs, the Contractor shall repair the utility at no additional cost to the Government.

• The Contractor must notify Massachusetts “Dig-Safe” at https://www.mass.gov/guides/about-dig- safe or by calling 811 or (888) 344-7233, 72 hours prior to beginning work.

1.2 Health and Safety Plan and Kickoff Meeting

The Contractor shall develop a Health and Safety Plan (HASP) in accordance with 29 CFR Part 1926 to ensure safety of personnel during construction. The Contractor will provide a copy of the HASP to the Government for review and approval (as part of CLIN 00100) no later than 10 working days after contract award and prior to commencing onsite work. The Contractor shall participate in a kick-off meeting scheduled prior to on-site activity.

1.3 Work Quality

All work shall be performed in accordance with the best practices described in 29 CFR 1910, Occupational Safety and Health Standards and 29 CFR 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction, and shall satisfy the standards, regulations, requirements, and recommended practices of the CFR and installation specification documents identified in this Statement of Work (SOW).

1.4 Pollution Control

The Contractor shall comply with all requirements identified in the HASP, as well as 33 CFR and other applicable local, state, and/or federal requirements for environmental protection of the atmosphere, land, and waters.

Fire Protection: Fire protection requirements shall be identified by the Contractor in the HASP prepared for this project. Hazardous material disposal shall be in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.

1.5 Onsite Contractor Construction Crew

https://www.mass.gov/guides/about-dig-%20safe

The onsite Contractor shall be fully self-sufficient and provide all labor, tools, support services, and installation consumables required to successfully complete the work of this contract, according to the requirements of this SOW.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for arranging and supplying all temporary services required for the conduct of this work.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for coordinating with the City of Lowell for police details for work being completed along Dutton Street, Merrimack Street, and Father Morissette Boulevard.

• The Contractor is responsible for obtaining all local, state, and federal permits to perform the work required by this SOW.

• The Contractor shall be responsible for the complete cleanup and removal from the right-of-way of all track materials, debris, containers, etc., that accumulate during the work performance.

Appendix A, Trolley Platforms Planning, Environment & Public Comment (PECP), contains LNHP’s categorical exclusion information releasing this project from further National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis.

2.0 Description of Platform Replacement and Track Repair Work

The Contractor shall provide all labor, material, tools, and equipment to repair and maintain trolley track at the Lowell National Historical Park. The track work shall include:

• Platform removals, including removal and disposal of all pressure treated wooden sleepers, composite deck boards, and associated hardware.

• Removal and disposal of existing wooden fence at Mack Plaza Station.

• Ballast replacement (existing ballast shall be removed and properly disposed of).

• Cross tie replacement (existing damaged/unusable railway ties shall be removed and properly disposed of).

• Repair or replace existing electrical rail bonding straps per American Railway Engineering and Maintenance-of-Way Association (AREMA) Manual for Railway Engineering (AREMA Manual), Chapter 33, Part 8.1.30.

• Install new replacement platforms using pressure treated wooden deck sleepers, structural composite deck boards (or concrete slabs in specific identified areas), and hardware.

• Install new replacement fence at Mack Plaza Station.

• Temporary relocation of display steam locomotive, coach, and associated catenary wire at Mack Plaza to allow renewal of track under the locomotive, including ballast, ties, and tie plates.

2.1 Work Activities

Work is organized under three Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs).

2.1.1 CLIN 00100—Platform and Fence Removals

2.1.1.1 Task 1: Remove Passenger Platforms and Fencing

The Contractor shall remove passenger platforms at the following locations:

• Suffolk Station

• Mack Plaza Station (Visitor Center)

• Moody Street Feeder House Station

• Swamp Locks Station

The Contractor shall also remove the wood fence at Mack Plaza Station.

Refer to Appendix B, Overview of Four Platform Locations, for a picture of the platform locations along the Lowell National Historical Park’s historic trolley route.

The Contractor will be responsible for properly disposing of platform and fence materials in accordance with local, state, and federal requirements. Once platforms and the fence are removed, the Contractor is responsible for safely securing the work areas and providing proper signage to route people around the work zones.

Platforms consist of structural composite deck boards screwed into 4” x 6” pressure treated wooden sleepers.

In some cases, precast or cast-in-place concrete may be part of the platform and must also be removed and disposed of to allow replacement of ties and ballast prior to being reinstalled or replaced. At the Moody Street Feeder House platform, the precast concrete sections running adjacent to the outside of both rails and between the rails should be removed.

2.1.2 CLIN 00200—Track Repair and Maintenance after Platform Removal

2.1.2.1 Task 2: Replace Cross Ties and Ballast and Resurface Track

The Contractor shall replace cross ties, ballast, and resurface track:

• Tie installation (approximately 325 ties 8’-6” long; see material/product information below) shall be at standard 19.5 inch spacing. Ballast replacement shall be to a depth of 3 to 6 inches below tie bottom.

Excavation below the bottom of the ballast is not permitted per PEPC stipulations in Appendix A. If an obstruction is encountered, then the depth can be modified as approved by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

• Tie and ballast replacement to be accomplished underneath the following platform areas:

o Suffolk Station o Mack Plaza Station (Visitor Center) including the display locomotive track o Moody Street Feeder House Station o Swamp Locks Station

• Tie and ballast replacement to be accomplished at the following areas:

o From Swamp Locks platform to bumping post Replace all ties, ballast, and deteriorated tie plates and reinstall the rail.

o From Merrimack Street to switch at Mack Plaza Replace any defective ties, remove and dispose of any fouled ballast Add ballast to lift and tamp track to remove dip and raise track profile to match level of deck.

o From heel block at switch to last line tie at Suffolk to Wye section Replace ties (approximately 20 ties 8’-6” long; see material/product information below) and tie plates, replace ballast, and reinstall track components.

2.1.2.2 Task 3: Replace Existing Damaged or Missing Electrical Rail Bonding Straps

The Contractor shall replace the existing damaged or missing electrical rail bonding straps per AREMA Manual, Chapter 33. Approximately 20 short rail bonding straps that are missing at rail joints to be replaced by the Contractor. See Appendix C, Track Drawing from 1990s, for installation information such as gage and cross section details.

2.1.2.3 Work Procedures

2.1.2.3.1 Cross Tie Installation

• Standard tie spacing of cross ties shall be 19.5 inches or as otherwise designated. Joint ties must be carefully located and centered for proper joint support.

• Ties shall be placed at right angles to the rail. Skewing in excess of 1 inch measured at the gauge line shall not be permitted as per AREMA Manual, Chapter 30.

• Place ties with the heartwood down and square to the rail. Do not damage ties with spiking hammers or picks when handling or spacing ties. Use tie tongs, lining bars, and other suitable tools or tie spacing equipment.

• The bottom of rail, tie plates, and bearing surface of the tie shall be free of mud, dirt or other foreign matter that would prevent full bearing.

• Tamping:

o Tamp ballast with a 16-tool vibrating squeeze-type mechanical tamper with the tamping tools being inserted by separate vertical and horizontal strokes. Make no less than two full tamping insertions per tie to ensure uniform ballast compaction under the tie.

o Tamp every tie for a distance of 15 inches from either side of the centerline of each rail. Do not tamp ballast at the tie's center as per AREMA Manual.

o Tampers shall be designed to operate through station platforms and such other close clearance areas and must be capable of automatically lifting and tamping.

o Use a level board throughout to determine that the cross level and super-elevation conform to tolerances. The level board shall be calibrated frequently, twice per day at a minimum, as per AREMA Manual.

• Downed Ties: If any ties lose contact with the rail for any reason during the replacement operation, the Contractor shall pull the spikes; clean out any ballast between the rail, tie plate, and tie; tamp the tie tight against the rail; plug the old spike holes; and re-spike the tie with new spikes.

• Remove and reinstall all anchors to match existing pattern. Box anchor every other tie, or every tie to match the existing pattern. Any damaged, broken, or bent anchors shall be replaced with Contractor-furnished new anchors.

2.1.2.3.2 Spiking

• Standard tie plates shall be fastened with two rail holding spikes. Curved trackage of more than 2 degrees shall have an additional plate holding spike.

• Track spikes must be started and driven vertically with face of shank in contact with rail and square with rail so that face of spike will have full hold on rail base. Damage to tie timber fiber must be minimized; goosenecks or drawing of rail in spike driving will not be permitted as per AREMA Manual. Spikes shall be set down after traffic has settled the tie plate into the tie. Care must be taken not to overdrive, and rail must not be gaged or struck with spike maul or another tool. Power spike drivers are preferred for efficiency.

2.1.2.3.3 Line, Gauge, Surface, and Regulation of Ballast

The Contractor shall line, gage, and surface track and dress ballast to correct any deficiencies in the track and ballast (such as humping) that are present or result from the Contractor’s work to return track structure to an acceptable condition.

2.1.2.3.4 Rail Joints

The Contactor shall join the rail in accordance with AREMA Manual, Chapter 4, Part 3.

2.1.2.3.5 Cleanup

The Contractor shall be responsible for the complete cleanup and removal from the right-of-way of all track materials, debris, containers, etc., that accumulates during the work performance.

2.1.2.4 Materials/Products

The Contractor shall adhere to the following requirements and shall provide manufacturer’s cut sheets for the following items:

2.1.2.4.1 Ballast

• Material: Ballast shall consist of crushed trap rock and shall conform to the latest edition of AREMA Manual, Chapter 1.

• Gradation: Use AREMA gradation size No. 4 or 4A in AREMA Manual Chapter 1, Table 2-2.

Approval of Source: The Contractor shall provide documentation that the proposed source of ballast meets the specification in AREMA Manual, Chapter 1, Table 2-1.

• Sampling and Testing: The Contractor shall store the ballast on-site in a manner that prevents contamination. If ballast becomes contaminated, the Contractor shall be responsible for recertifying the ballast at no additional cost to the Government.

2.1.2.4.2 New Timber Cross Ties and Crossing Timbers

• General: Conform to AREMA Manual, Chapter 30, Part 3, Timber Cross Ties, except as supplemented and modified herein.

• Acceptable Wood: Locally sourced timber ties that meet the requirements of AREMA Manual, Chapter 30, Section 3.1. (including Figure 30-3-1a, Dimensions of 7-inch and 6-inch Cross Ties).

• Size:

o Dimensions of timber shall not be averaged.

o Standard crossties to conform to AREMA Manual, Chapter 30, Specifications for timber industrial grade crossties: 6” x 8” x 8'-6".

o Length of the installed crossing timbers shall match existing cross timber.

o Sawed tops, bottoms, and sides. Make top and bottom sides parallel and cut ends square.

• Anti-Splitting Devices:

o General: Install end plate anti-splitting devices at both ends of all ties and timbers prior to treatment.

o Steel End Plate: Eighteen-gauge galvanized sheet steel, sized to cover a minimum of 75% of the end of the tie and centered on the end of the tie.

o For end plate application, clamping machines shall have a clamping capability of 250 pounds per square inch. Ties shall be clamped and end plated in one continuous operation.

• Seasoning: Conform to AREMA Manual, Chapter 30 "Wood Preserving", except as modified as follows:

o Treatment: Preservative: shall be in accordance with AREMA Manual, Chapter 30, “Specifications for

Treatment.” The Contractor shall provide the new timber tie documentation and the source from which the ties are coming from, including the treatment, and seasoning of the ties to verify they meet AREMA Manual, Chapter 30.

2.1.2.4.3 Other Track Materials (OTM)

• General: All OTM to match existing rail size or 115# rail if it is being replaced. Replacement rail shall be new and manufactured for use with a 6-inch rail base unless using the existing material.

• Tie Plates: Reuse existing tie plates. The Contractor shall replace corroded, bent, or damaged tie plates with new or relay 7-3/4" x 14" double shouldered tie plates.

• Rail Anchors: Rail anchors shall be replaced if damaged or broken and shall be installed to AREMA standards. Existing anchors in usable condition may be reinstalled, EXCEPT all fair type drive on anchors shall be replaced with new anchors. New replacement anchors shall be "Trueloc" as manufactured by True Temper, "Unit Spring Anchor" as manufactured by Unit Rail Anchor, or an approved replacement anchor equally suited to the rail section at the required location. Unit drive-on style anchors will be permitted.

• Drive Spikes: replace in kind with either 5/8” x 6” driven spikes or ¾” x 12” with 6” threaded length screw spikes. Driven spikes as manufactured by A&K Railroad Materials, screw spikes as manufactured by Lewis Bolt and Nut Company, or an approved spike equally conforming to ASTM Specification A66.

• Rail: Shall be new or relay quality conforming to the requirements of AREMA Manual, Chapter 4.

2.1.3 CLIN 00300—Install New Platforms and Fence

2.1.3.1 Task 4: Install New Platforms and Fence

Install new platforms that provide for universal accessibility in accordance with the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS), the Americans with Disability Act (ADA), and the U.S. National Park Service’s Director’s Order (DO) #42. Some platform locations are near historic canal structures that must be protected. For this reason, all excavation shall be completed no deeper than 6 inches below the tie bottom. In locations along or over historic canal structures, such as Moody Street Feeder House Station and Mack Plaza Station, no below grade excavation by machine that could disturb the canal structures is permitted. Structural vibration monitoring designed to monitor the impact of construction on the historic canal structures is required at Moody Street Feeder House Station and Mack Plaza Station during any concrete removal or machine excavation work. Excavation below the grade of the bottom of the ballast is not permitted per PEPC stipulations in Appendix A.

2.1.3.1.1 Suffolk Station (refer to Appendix D, Suffolk Station, for pictures)

Replace the Suffolk Station platform in kind. The sleepers shall be ground contact pressure treated lumber that is spaced 12” on center. Currently, 4” x 6” sleepers are being used but the Contractor shall verify that this size sleeper is appropriate for the ground conditions after the ties and ballast materials have been replaced. Sleepers shall be appropriately sized so that the structural composite decking is aligned with the tops of the trolley tracks. Sleepers shall be anchored in place as per existing conditions with approved fasteners installed per manufacturer’s recommendations.

Replace the existing deck boards with approved new structural composite decking. The structural composite deck boards shall be secured to the sleepers using approved fasteners installed per the decking manufacturer’s recommendations.

2.1.3.1.2 Mack Plaza Station (Visitor Center) (refer to Appendix E, Mack Plaza Station, for pictures)

Replace the Mack Plaza platform and composite deck surface connections to Mack Plaza in kind.

The sleepers shall be approved ground contact pressure treated lumber that is spaced 12” on center. Currently, 4” x 6” sleepers are being used but the Contractor shall verify that this size sleeper is appropriate for the ground conditions after the ties and ballast materials have been replaced. Sleepers shall be appropriately sized so that the composite decking is even with the tops of the trolley tracks. Sleepers shall be anchored in place as per existing conditions with approved https://www.access-board.gov/aba/ https://www.access-board.gov/aba/ https://www.ada.gov/ https://www.nps.gov/subjects/policy/upload/DO_42_11-3-2000.pdf fasteners installed per manufacturer’s recommendations.

Replace the existing deck boards with approved new structural composite decking. The composite deck boards shall be secured to the sleepers using approved fasteners installed per the decking manufacturer’s recommendations.

*As an alternative, the Contractor may propose installing a concrete slab 8 feet from the outside edge of the rail adjacent to Merrimack Street along the full length of the Mack Plaza trolley platform. Slab to be formed and cast in place in accordance with requirements of the City of Lowell specifications for sidewalks. The edge of the platform shall include an approved tactile warning strip along the outer edge meeting City of Lowell sidewalk requirements. This option would replace the composite decking only in this specific area of the Mack Plaza platform.

• The brick walkways of Mack Plaza alongside the existing buildings are not to be disturbed.

• The stair material shall be structural composite pressure treated decking, with stair stringers to be replaced in kind, as appropriate.

• The platform decking running along the curved rail leading from the switch shall meet universal accessibility requirements in accordance with ABAAS, ADA, and the U.S. National Park Service’s DO #42.

• The Contractor shall provide all equipment and materials needed to temporarily relocate the historic display locomotive, coach, and associated catenary wire and renew the track supporting and leading to the locomotive.

Replace the existing wood fence (approximately 3.5 feet high by 150 feet long) with either structural composite material matching the new decking or black metal fencing matching the design of existing metal fencing at Mack Plaza.

2.1.3.1.3 Moody Street Feeder House Station (refer to Appendix F, Moody Street Station, for pictures)

Replace Moody Street Station platform. Remove the precast concrete sections that run outside of both rails and between the rails. Install square deck from outer corner of existing Feeder House door stoop to rail, incorporating removed concrete areas in new decking area and removing the variations in the width and length.

The sleepers shall be approved ground contact pressure treated lumber that is spaced 12” on center. Currently, 4” x 6” sleepers are being used but the Contractor shall verify that this size sleeper is appropriate for the ground conditions after the ties and ballast materials have been replaced. Sleepers shall be appropriately sized so that the composite decking is even with the tops of the trolley tracks. Sleepers shall be anchored in place as per existing conditions with approved fasteners installed per manufacturer’s recommendations.

Replace the existing deck boards with approved new structural composite decking, including the previously removed concrete sections into the new decking area. The composite deck boards shall be secured to the sleepers using approved fasteners installed per the decking manufacturer’s recommendations.

2.1.3.1.4 Swamp Locks Station (refer to Appendix G, Swamp Locks Station, for pictures)

Replace the Swamp Locks Station platform in kind.

The sleepers shall be ground contact pressure treated lumber that is spaced 12” on center.

Currently, 4” x 6” sleepers are being used but the Contractor shall verify that this size sleeper is https://www.access-board.gov/aba/ https://www.ada.gov/ appropriate for the ground conditions after the ties and ballast materials have been replaced.

Sleepers shall be appropriately sized so that the structural composite decking is aligned with the tops of the trolley tracks. Sleepers shall be anchored in place as per existing structural conditions with approved fasteners installed per manufacturer’s recommendations.

Replace the existing deck boards with approved new structural composite decking. The structural composite deck boards shall be secured to the sleepers using approved fasteners installed per the decking manufacturer’s recommendations.

2.1.3.2 Work Plan Deliverables

2.1.3.2.1 Track Work

The Contractor shall prepare and submit a work plan detailing general construction practices to meet the track work requirements. The work plan shall include descriptions, cut sheets, and sketches of the following:

• Construction sequences and schedules

• Material handling procedures

• Handling and placing ties

• Handling and placement of ballast

• Manufacturer's data, catalog cuts, and specifications for each product

• Source of ballast

• Source of ties

2.1.3.2.2 Platform Replacement

The Contractor shall prepare and submit a work plan detailing general construction procedures to meet the platform replacement work requirements. The work plan shall include descriptions and sketches of the following:

• Construction sequences and schedules.

• Material handling procedures and storage areas.

• Manufacturer's data, catalog cuts, and specifications for each product and material.

• Mack Plaza display locomotive relocation plan, including the method of relocation, plan for locating cranes or other equipment to minimize disruption to traffic and damage to the area, the duration of the relocation, and the temporary site of locomotive relocation.

• Plan to mitigate or alleviate the uneven platform condition that has developed at Mack Plaza.

2.1.3.3 Materials/Products

The Contractor shall adhere to the following requirements and shall provide manufacturer’s cut sheets for the following items:

2.1.3.3.1 Structural Composite Deck Boards

Platforms will be replaced with new structural composite decking as supplied by Tangent Materials Polyforce/Tandeck composite marine grade decking. The deck boards shall be at least 1” x 6” in dimension with length chosen to minimize joints in the deck surface. The deck board shall be heavy duty, industrial decking for marine applications chosen for long service life and durability. Tangent Materials products are preferred for their demonstrated durability, higher recycled content, longer warranty, and better structural characteristics as compared to other competing products.

2.1.3.3.2 Platform Support Timbers

Ground contact pressure treated timbers required of typical 4” x 6” dimension. Size to be selected by the Contractor to ensure platform height matches top of rail and to meet installation requirements for composite decking.

2.1.3.3.3 Fasteners

To be selected to ensure long life and minimize corrosion. Timber fastenings for treated timber applications are required. Deck fasteners shall be selected for durability and longevity.

2.1.3.3.4 Concrete Slab (if installed)

Ensure depth, reinforcing details, concrete materials, installation, and expansion joint layouts conform to City of Lowell sidewalk requirements. Slabs adjacent to the track shall include a tactile warning strip meeting City of Lowell requirements. At the edge of any new concrete platforms, a tactile warning strip meeting City of Lowell requirements is to be installed in the cast in place concrete on the track side of the platform.

3.0 Standards, Qualifications, Schedule, and Work Acceptance

3.1 Standards

All work shall conform to the AREMA Manual for Railway Engineering and AREMA Portfolio of Track Work Plans (2019 edition); and all other applicable standards. The Contractor’s quotation shall provide a list of commercial specifications that they will follow while performing this work.

3.2 Government Furnished Information

Appendix A: Trolley Platforms Planning, Environment & Public Comment (PECP) Appendix B: Overview of Four Platform Locations Appendix C: Track Drawing from 1990s Appendix D: Suffolk Station Appendix E: Mack Plaza Station Appendix F: Moody Street Station Appendix G: Swamp Locks Station

3.3 Qualifications

The Contractor shall have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience working on railroads or transit systems documented in their Past Performance submission.

3.4 Safety of Operations

The work covered by this contract will involve the safety of persons, equipment, and property at a National Park adjacent to public roads and walkways. Therefore, superior skill and experience will be required of the Contractor to perform the work safely. The Contractor shall be responsible for the safety of its construction operations and is expected to post adequate watch people or protective devices to protect its crews, equipment, and the work site.

3.5 Product Delivery, Handling, and Storage (as applicable)

Load, transport, unload, and store all materials in such a manner that the material is kept clean and free from injury. Store materials above ground on platforms, skids, or other supports, and cover and protect them from corrosion or deterioration.

Any materials damaged during shipping, handling, and storage will be rejected by the CO/COR and replaced by the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

3.6 Other Materials

Any other required replacement items or new mast arms must be selected to perform properly and match the style of adjacent components. All items shall be submitted to the Government for approval.

3.7 Cleanup

The Contractor shall be responsible for the complete cleanup and removal from the right-of-way of all track materials, debris, containers, etc., that accumulates during the work performance.

3.8 Place of Performance

All work will be performed at the Lowell National Historical Park in Lowell, MA.

3.9 Government Review and Acceptance

Materials and workmanship shall be guaranteed to be free of defects for a period of one (1) year from date of final acceptance. Any part of the scope of work considered defective by the CO/COR within the guarantee period shall be replaced or corrected to the CO’s/COR’s satisfaction without further expense to the Government.

4.0 DELIVERABLES AND SCHEDULE

Work Activities Deliverables Period of Performance

CLIN 00100

Develop Health and Safety Plan (HASP)

HASP No later than 10 working days after contract award and prior to commencing onsite work

Participate in Kickoff Meeting

Attend meeting Prior to commencing onsite work

Task 1 Remove Passenger Platforms and Fencing Date of award to 4/30/2027

CLIN 00200

Task 2 Replace Cross Ties and Ballast and Resurface Track, including associated work plan

Date of award to 4/30/2027

Task 3 Replace Existing Damaged or Missing Electrical Rail Bonding Straps

Date of award to 4/30/2027

CLIN 00300

Task 4 Install New Platforms and Fence, including associated work plan and manufacturer’s cut sheets

Date of award to 4/30/2027

All work shall be scheduled through the CO and COR.

The Contractor recognizes that other contractors may be working on the right-of-way and working schedules may have to be adjusted accordingly.

The Contractor shall be responsible for making all arrangements for access to the work site and storage of materials and track equipment.

SUSTAINABLE ACQUISITION REQUIREMENT

To the maximum extent possible and consistent with the Federal Acquisition Regulations Part 23, the Government requires during the performance of the work under this Statement of Work (SOW) the Contractor to provide or use products that are: energy efficient (ENERGY STAR® or Federal Energy Management Program (FEMA)-designated); water-efficient; biobased;

environmentally preferable (e.g., EPEAT-registered, or non-toxic or less toxic alternatives);

made with recovered materials; or non-ozone depleting that minimize or eliminate, when feasible, the use, release, or emission of high global warming potential hydrofluorocarbons, such as by using reclaimed instead of virgin hydrofluorocarbons. Unless otherwise identified in this SOW, each recovered materials or biobased product provided and delivered must meet, but may exceed, the minimum recovered materials or biobased content of an EPA- or USDA-designated product. The sustainable acquisition requirements specified herein apply only to products that are required to be: (1) delivered to the Government during contract performance;

(2) acquired by the contractor for use in performing services (including construction) at a Federally-controlled facility; (3) furnished by the contractor for use by the Government; or (4) specified in the design of a building or work, or incorporated during its construction, renovation, or maintenance.

SECTION D - PACKAGING AND MARKING

D.1 PRESERVATION AND PACKAGING

The Contractor shall ensure that all items are preserved, packaged, packed, and marked in accordance with best commercial practices to meet packing requirements of the carrier and ensure safe delivery at destination.

D.2 MARKING

All items submitted to the Government shall be clearly marked as follows:

a. Name of contractor;

b. Contract number;

c. Description of items contained therein and associated CLIN;

d. Consignee's name and address; and

e. If applicable, packages containing software or other magnetic media shall be marked on external containers with a notice reading substantially as follows: "CAUTION:

SOFTWARE/MAGNETIC MEDIA ENCLOSED. DO NOT EXPOSE TO HEAT OR

MAGNETIC FIELDS."

D.3 DELIVERY, HANDLING AND STORAGE

• Load, transport, unload, and store all materials in such a manner that the material is kept clean and free from injury. Store materials above ground on platform, skids, or other supports, and cover and protect them from corrosion or deterioration.

• Ties shall be bundled and shipped in groups according to type, size and length.

• Handle prepared ballast at the producing plant and at the site in such manner that material is clean and free from segregation.

• Any materials damaged during shipping, handling and storage will be rejected by the Contracting Officer and replaced by the Contractor at no cost to the Government.

SECTION E - INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

E.1 FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION (48 CFR CHAPTER 1)

CLAUSE NUMBER TITLE DATE

52.246-2 INSPECTION OF SUPPLIES – FIXED PRICE (Aug 1996) 52.246-12 INSPECTION OF CONSTRUCTION (Aug 1996)

52.246-13 INSPECTION – DISMANTLING, DEMOLITION, OR

REMOVAL OF IMPROVEMENTS (Aug 1996)

E.2 GOVERNMENT INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE (JULY 2015)

In accordance with the above Federal Acquisition Regulation clauses the Government will inspect and issue final acceptance of each CLIN outlined in the SOW when tendered by the Contractor in accordance with Section F herein.

The Government has the right to inspect all supplies and services required by the Contract, to the maximum extent practicable, at any and all places and times and in any event before acceptance.

The COR will inspect the track/platform after operating the trolley service, and Contractor shall correct any deficiencies that are identified.

Materials and workmanship shall be guaranteed to be free of defects for a period of one (1) year from date of final acceptance. Any part of the work considered defective by the COR within the guarantee period shall be replaced or corrected to the Government’s satisfaction without further expense to the Government.

The points of delivery set forth in this contract are hereby designated as the places for final inspection and acceptance.

52.246-4 Inspection of Services—Fixed-Price. Inspection of Services—Fixed-Price (Aug 1996)

a) Definition. “Services,” as used in this clause, includes services performed, workmanship, and material furnished or utilized in the performance of services.

(b) The Contractor shall provide and maintain an inspection system acceptable to the Government covering the services under this contract. Complete records of all inspection work performed by the Contractor shall be maintained and made available to the Government during contract performance and for as long afterwards as the contract requires.

(c) The Government has the right to inspect and test all services called for by the contract, to the extent practicable at all times and places during the term of the contract. The Government shall perform inspections and tests in a manner that will not unduly delay the work.

(d) If the Government performs inspections or tests on the premises of the Contractor or a subcontractor, the Contractor shall furnish, and shall require subcontractors to furnish, at no increase in contract price, all reasonable facilities and assistance for the safe and convenient performance of these duties.

(e) If any of the services do not conform with contract requirements, the Government may require the Contractor to perform the services again in conformity with contract requirements, at no increase in contract amount. When the defects in services cannot be corrected by performance, the Government may—

(1) Require the Contractor to take necessary action to ensure that future performance conforms to contract requirements; and

(2) Reduce the contract price to reflect the reduced value of the services performed.

(f) If the Contractor fails to promptly perform the services again or to take the necessary action to ensure future performance in conformity with contract requirements, the Government may—

(1) By contract or otherwise, perform the services and charge to the Contractor any cost incurred by the Government that is directly related to the performance of such service; or

(2) Terminate the contract for default.

(End of clause)

SECTION F – DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

F.1 SCHEDULE

All work shall be scheduled through the Contracting Officer and/or Contracting Officer Representative

(COR).

F.2 CONTRACT PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The performance of this contract is from the contract award date until April 30, 2027.

F.3 PLACE OF DELIVERY/PERFORMANCE

The place of delivery/performance called for under this contract shall be:

Lowell National Historical Park 226 Dutton Street, Lowell, MA 01852

F.4 REPORTS

The Contractor is required to provide monthly construction progress reports. These reports shall include physical progress and updated work schedule as required. The Contractor shall prepare and submit reports for progress meetings to the COR/CO a minimum of five (5) days before each meeting. These progress meetings will be held subject to Government discretion.

SECTION G - CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

G.1 TAR 1252.201-70 CONTRACTING OFFICER’S REPRESENTATIVE (NOV 2022)

(a) The Contracting Officer may designate Government personnel to act as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) to perform functions under the contract such as review and/or inspection and acceptance of supplies, services, including construction, and other functions of a technical nature. The Contracting Officer will provide a written notice of such designation to the Contractor within five working days after contract award or for construction, not less than five working days prior to giving the contractor the notice to proceed. The designation letter will set forth the authorities and limitations of the COR under the contract.

(b) The Contracting Officer cannot authorize the COR or any other representative to sign documents (i.e., contracts, contract modifications, etc.) that require the signature of the Contracting Officer.

(End of Clause)

G.2 RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

CO: The CO has the overall responsibility for this contract. The CO alone, without delegation, is authorized to take actions on behalf of the Government to amend, modify, or deviate from the contract terms, conditions, requirements, specifications, details and/or delivery schedules.

However, the CO may delegate certain other responsibilities to authorized representatives.

COR: A COR will be designated by the CO. The responsibilities of the COR include, but are not limited to, inspecting and monitoring the Contractor's work, determining the adequacy of performance by the Contractor in accordance with the terms and conditions of this contract, acting as the Government's representative in charge of work at the site to ensure compliance with contract requirements in so far as the work is concerned, and advising the CO of any factors which may cause delay in performance of the work. The COR does not have the authority to make new assignments of work or to issue directions that cause an increase or decrease in the price of this contract or otherwise affect any other contract terms.

The Contracting Officer is:

Carl Chin John A. Volpe National Transportation Systems Center U.S. Department of Transportation, OST-R 220 Binney Street Cambridge, MA 02142-1093 Email: carl.chin@dot.gov Office: 617-494-2072

The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) is:

TBD

G.3 TECHNICAL DIRECTION

Performance of work shall be under the technical direction of the COR. As used herein, “technical direction” is limited to direction to the Contractor that fill in details or otherwise complete the specific description of work set forth in the contract. This direction may not include new assignments of work or may not be of such a nature as to cause an increase or decrease in the estimated cost of the contract, or otherwise affect any other provision of this contract. The Contractor may not begin work without obligated funding and authorization from the Contracting Officer.

G.4 INVOICE REVIEW

The Government may at its sole discretion utilize a Contractor to review invoices and supporting data submitted for payment under the provisions of this contract. The Contractor reviewing invoices and supporting data will perform this function in accordance with contract provisions which prohibit disclosure of proprietary financial data or use of such data for any purpose other than to perform accounts payable services.

G.5 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS

“In accordance with the terms and conditions in this contract, all invoices are required to be submitted electronically via the Delphi eInvoicing web-portal. To submit invoices electronically, you must contact the Volpe point of contact (POC) at volpeisupplieraccess@dot.gov and provide basic account information, such as an email address. New users will also be required to create a Login.gov account using the same e-mail address provided for the Delphi eInvoicing web-portal account. Once the login.gov account is established you will use this account to access the eInvoicing web-portal. For detailed instructions on how to submit invoices through the eInvoicing web-portal, follow the instructions included in the TAR Clause 1252.232-70 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests (NOV 2022) (DEVIATION) (AUG 2025) in section I.4 TAR Clauses Full Text, Item B of the contract, and/or visit the eInvoicing site at: http://einvoice.esc.gov.

G.6 FFP INVOICING AND PAYMENT PROCESS

Invoices must contain the information required by, and will be paid IAW, FAR clause 52.232-25 (incorporated by reference in Section I) and Section G instruction titled “Electronic Submission of Payment Requests”. In addition, the following information must be included in the invoice attachment uploaded to the Delphi eInvoicing web portal for invoices including FFP CLINS:

a. Invoice number and invoice date.

b. Period of performance covered by invoice.

c. Contract number and title.

d. Task/Delivery Order number and title (if applicable).

e. Amount billed (by CLIN), current and cumulative.

f. Total ($) of billing.

g. Cumulative total billed for all contract work to date.

h. Name, title, phone number, and mailing address of person to be contacted in the event of a defective invoice.

i. Travel. If the contract includes allowances for travel, all invoices which include charges pertaining to travel expenses will catalog a breakdown of reimbursable expenses with the appropriate receipts to substantiate the travel expenses.

j. Description of deliverable(s) and date of submission

k. The following statement “The Contractor certifies that, by submitting this invoice to the Government, the supplies and/or services billed have been shipped, rendered, or delivered in accordance with instructions issued by the ordering officer; that they are reflected in the quantities and/or period of performance stated on the invoice; and that such supplies and/or services conform to the quantity and quality requirements specified in the applicable contract, order, or blanket purchase agreement. Furthermore, pursuant to Executive Order

14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination And Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, the Contractor certifies that it is in compliance with the Equal Protection principles of the Constitution and all applicable Federal anti-discrimination laws, and acknowledges that such compliance is material to the Government’s payment decision under the False Claims Act (31 U.S.C. § 3729(b)(4)). The Contractor also affirms that it does not operate any diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that are inconsistent with the Equal Protection principles of the Constitution and the non-discrimination requirements of Federal law, as interpreted by the Supreme Court in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, 600 U.S. 181 (2023).”

l. The Contractor may submit invoices not more frequently than monthly, based on the completion of each item or test and the submission of the deliverable associated with each item or test. The invoice shall be based on the unit prices included in Section B.1 of this contract. CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE

ASSESSMENT REPORTING SYSTEM (CPARS)

IAW FAR 42.11, past performance evaluations will be completed for each contract action exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. Past performance evaluations shall be prepared at least annually and at the time the work under a contract or order is completed. The Government uses CPARS as the primary method to complete and maintain evaluations (www.cpars.gov). The Contractor is required to register in CPARS and shall have fourteen (14) calendar days in which to respond to the Government’s comments on the evaluation.

The Government will consider any comments provided by the Contractor before finalizing a past performance evaluation and will attach the Contractor’s comments to the final report.

SECTION H - SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

H.1 SAFETY OF OPERATIONS

The work covered by this contract will involve the safety of people, equipment and property on a National Park. Therefore, unusual, extraordinary skill and experience is required of the Contractor to perform the work safely. The Contractor shall be responsible for the safety of its construction operations. The Contractor shall post adequate watchmen or protective devices to protect its crews, equipment and the work site.

H.2 NON-PERSONAL SERVICES

No personal services as defined in Part 37 of the FAR shall be performed under this contract.

No Contractor employee will be directly supervised by the Government. All individual employee assignments and daily work direction shall be given by the Contractor’s supervisor.

If the Contractor believes any Government action or communication has been given that would create a personal services relationship between the Government and any Contractor employee, the Contractor shall promptly notify the CO of this communication or action.

The Contractor shall not perform any inherently governmental functions under this contract. No Contractor employee shall hold him or herself out to be a Government employee, agent, or representative. In all communications with third parties in connection with this contract, Contractor employees shall identify themselves as Contractor employees and specify the name of the company for which they work. In all communications with other Government Contractors in connection with this contract, the Contractor employee shall state that they have no authority to in any way change the contract and that if the other Contractor believes this communication to be a direction to change their contract, they should notify the CO for that contract and not carry out the direction until a clarification has been issued by the CO.

The Contractor shall ensure that all of its employees working on this contract are informed of the substance of this clause. Nothing in this clause shall limit the Government's rights in any way under any other provision of the contract, including those related to the Government's right to inspect and accept the services to be performed under this contract. The substance of this clause shall be included in all subcontracts at any tier.

H.3 PERFORMANCE OF WORK AND SAFETY PROVISIONS ON GOVERNMENT

PREMISES

Any work under this contract which is performed by the Contractor, or any of its subcontractors, on premises that are under direct control of the Government, is subject to the following provisions:

(1) Performance of work on Government premises shall be confined to the area(s) specified by the CO or designee. In performance of this work, the Contractor shall: (a) conform to all safety rules and requirements as in effect during the term of the contract; and

(b) take such additional precautions as the CO may reasonably require for safety and accident prevention purposes.

(2) The Contractor shall designate to the CO or designee, in writing, an on-the-premises representative to serve as point of contact.

(3) Any violation of applicable safety rules and requirements shall be promptly corrected as directed by the CO.

(4) The Contractor will develop a Health and Safety Plan (HASP) per 29 CFR 1926. All on-site personnel will need to follow this HASP, visitors, sub & prime contractor employees and Government personnel.

H.4 HOURS OF WORK

The working hours for execution of the contract are Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays. The Contractor will not be permitted to work on any other days unless otherwise authorized by the CO.

Unless otherwise noted in the contract, work may be performed by the Contractor at the contract site only during the hours of normal operation, which are 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

H.5 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY

The Contractor shall without additional expense to the Government, be responsible for all damage to persons or property that occur as a result of its fault or negligence in connection with the prosecution of the work, and shall be responsible for the proper care and protection of work performed.

H.6 SAFETY AND ACCIDENT PREVENTION

In performing any work under this contract on premises which are under the direct control of the Government, the Contractor shall (a) conform to all safety rules and requirements as in effect during the term of the contract; and (b) take such additional precautions as the…