MassDOT Services Plazas Responses to Proposer Questions 1.17.25.pdf

Proposer Questions and Answers Dates Received: December 12, 2024 through January 9, 2025

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

1 12/12/24 Attachment B, Section B5.2

Will MassDOT be providing contact information for the existing operators?

The contact information for the current operators will be included in the RIDs.

2 12/19/24 Attachment B, Section B2.2(H)

Will the initial deposit be refunded if the Proposer is not successful?

See clarifying edits in the next addendum.

3 12/19/24 Attachment C, Form K

Please confirm what is included in the definition of contract sales?

See clarifying edits in a future addendum.

4 12/19/24 Attachment C, Form L

Please define gross sales? See clarifying edits in a future addendum.

5 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On the MA Turnpike Service Plaza properties, all 11 land areas appear to be within the MassDOT right of way. Are these land areas assessed for local municipality real estate taxation purposes or are they exempt? Are the building improvements to be built by the Proposer and the personal property inside, assessed for local municipality taxation purposes or are they exempt?

MassDOT itself is not assessed by any town for property taxes. Consistent with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6C, the lease will state that real property of MassDOT, if leased, used or occupied in connection with a business conducted for profit, shall, at the discretion of the municipality for the privilege of such lease, use or occupancy, be valued, classified, assessed and taxed annually as of January first to such lessee, user or occupant in the same manner and to the same extent as if such lessee, user or occupant were the owner thereof in fee. Proposers are encouraged to research municipal records.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 1

Responses to Proposer Questions Questions received: 12/12/24 - 1/9/25

Responses issed: January 17, 2025

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

6 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On the remaining 7 Service Plaza properties, these land areas appear to be owned by the Commonwealth of MA. Are these 7 land areas assessed for local municipality real estate taxation purposes or are they exempt? Are the building improvements to be built by the Proposer and the personal property inside, assessed for local municipality taxation purposes or are they exempt?

MassDOT itself is not assessed by any town for property taxes. Consistent with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 6C, the lease will state that real property of MassDOT, if leased, used or occupied in connection with a business conducted for profit, shall, at the discretion of the municipality for the privilege of such lease, use or occupancy, be valued, classified, assessed and taxed annually as of January first to such lessee, user or occupant in the same manner and to the same extent as if such lessee, user or occupant were the owner thereof in fee. Proposers are encouraged to research municipal records.

7 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

Please provide the building plans for all 18 sites.

MassDOT identified the following floor plans, which it will place in the Reference Information Documents ("RIDs"):

1. Charlton eastbound and westbound;

2. Framingham;

3. Lee eastbound and westbound;

4. Ludlow eastbound;

5. Natick; and

6. Westborough.

MassDOT will continue to research its files and will share any additional floor plans in the RIDs as they become available.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 2

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

8 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

Is there any existing electric power supply data documentation for each location to assess current service capabilities?

Please reference EPE_MassDOT Site List - Updated Hosting Capacity, which is located in the RIDs.

9 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

Is there any geotechnical information including borings and bearing capacity for these locations?

MassDOT has not undertaken any geotechnical borings or conducted any geotechnical analysis related to this Program. Additionally, a review of its files has not identified any historical geotechnical information.

MassDOT will continue to research its files and release any identified geotechnical information in the RIDs if it becomes available.

10 12/19/24 General Is the Proposer permitted to sell beer and wine in its convenience stores?

A list of prohibited uses will be provided with the Lease. MassDOT has prohibited operators from selling or allowing the sale or consumption of any intoxicating or alcoholic beverages or any fermented ale, wine, liquor or spirits.

11 12/19/24 General It seems all locations had a Phase I ESA performed. It appears there were some suggested Recognized Environmental Condition (REC) comments expressed.

With that said, does MassDOT expect any further investigation that may be warranted to evaluate the scope and extent of potential environmental liabilities? Will a Phase II ESA be undertaken at any of those locations?

MassDOT believes that the Phase I Environmental Site Assessments ("ESAs") speak for themselves. At this juncture, MassDOT does not intend to perform any Phase II ESA at the Service Plazas.

MassDOT will continue to research its files and release any identified ESAs in the RIDs if it becomes available.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 3

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

12 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On Blandford EB and WB, both are cited in a very rural community and the existing conditions narrative seemed light in detail on where sanitary discharge was being directed. Please confirm that there is access to municipal sanitary sewer, or if there is an existing onsite sanitary septic system.

The town of Blandford is the sanitary sewer provider for Blandford eastbound. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Blandford Service Plaza East (I-90), Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Blandford Eastbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

The town of Blandford is the sanitary sewer provider for Blandford westbound. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Blandford Service Plaza West (I-90), Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Blandford Westbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 4

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

13 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On Charlton EB and WB, both are cited in a very rural community and the existing conditions narrative seemed light in detail on where sanitary discharge was being directed. Please confirm that there is access to municipal sanitary sewer, or if there is an existing onsite sanitary septic system.

The town of Charlton is the sanitary sewer provider for Charlton eastbound. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Charlton Service Plaza East (I-90), Section

3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Charlton Eastbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

The town of Lee is teh sanitary sewer provider for Charlton westbound. Please review teh following documents, all currently in cludedin the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Charlton Service Plaza West (I-90), Section

3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Charlton Westbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 5

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

14 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On Lee EB and WB, both are cited in a very rural community and the existing conditions narrative seemed light in detail on where sanitary discharge was being directed. Please confirm that there is access to municipal sanitary sewer, or if there is an onsite septic system.

The town of Blandford is the sanitary sewer provider for Lee eastbound. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Lee Service Plaza East (I-90), Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Lee Eastbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

The town of Lee is the sanitary sewer provider for Lee westbound. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Lee Service Plaza West (I-90), Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Lee Westbound Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 6

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

15 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On Plymouth, the existing conditions narrative seemed light in detail on where sanitary discharge was being directed.

Please confirm that there is access to municipal sanitary sewer, or if there is an onsite septic system.

The town of Plymouth is the sanitary sewer provider at Plymouth. Please review the following documents, all currently included in the RIDs:

- Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Plymouth Service Plaza, Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider; and

- Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Plymouth Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 3.

16 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

On Barnstable, the existing conditions narrative stated it appears on plans recorded with the Board of Health and on surveys that there are sewer lines that lead to septic tanks that are directed to a septic field indicated to be underneath the northern section of the Park and Ride site. Is this field jointly used by others and who is responsible for that septic field and infrastructure maintenance?

The Existing Conditions Narrative completed by Howard Stein Hudson, Barnstable Section, Site Utilities - Sewer, pg 4 incorrectly includes the park and ride as part of the leased area. As per the Property Condition Report completed by Partner Engineering and Science, Inc., Barnstable Service Plaza, Section 3.2.10 Utility Service Provider, the town of Barnstable is the sanitary sewer provider.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 7

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

17 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

With Proposer takeover of the existing facilities, has there been any current underground tank and line testing performed? Will those results be provided? Will there be an assemblage of UST compliance documents provided?

MassDOT notes that the following information regarding underground storage tanks ("USTs") is available in the RIDs under the "Underground Storage Tank Information" folder. Different leases, which all Proposers should review, place different responsibilities on existing tenants with respect to Hazardous Substances conditions at the property that exist upon the termination of existing leases.

Nevertheless, at most of the Service Plazas that provide fuel services, the current tenant is required to conduct an environmental audit and provide to MassDOT a copy of the Audit Report within ten (10) days of receipt. If MassDOT receives any Audit Reports, they will be posted in the RIDs.

18 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.3.1

With Proposer takeover of the existing facilities, are all overhead fire suppression system inspections current?

MassDOT does not have access to the past inspection reports.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 8

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

19 12/19/24 General MassDOT has provided the MassDEP Underground Storage Tank Database Information including the tank runs for 17 of the 18 travel plaza locations that describe tank capacities, product contained, tank compositions, tank installation dates and tank ages which is helpful. There was however, no information on tank tightness testing, the dates of the 3-year interval third party compliance testing and certification for each UST, nor any DW Steel tank cathodic protection testing information. There were no references to underground product supply line composition data, current in-line testing status or their more recent test results.

Because of the now known +33-year advanced age of over 70% of all USTs on these 17-travel plazas, when will the Proposers be able to access this crucial information?

All available UST documents are in the RIDs, and MassDOT does not expect to perform any additional UST or line testing.

MassDOT will continue to research its files and release any UST information in the RIDs if it becomes available.

20 12/19/24 The HBMI reports and ESA reports are noted as draft. Are these considered formal reports, or do we expect a new “final” release during the RFP process?

MassDOT does not anticipate the issuance of any new “final” release of the HBMI reports or the ESA reports during the RFP process.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 9

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

21 12/19/24 Will the existing tenant own removing the existing hazardous substances such as the waste oils noted on the ESA reports?

Different leases, which are available in the RIDs and which MassDOT encourages all Proposers to review, place different responsibilities on existing tenants with respect to certain Hazardous Substances conditions at the property that exist upon the termination of existing leases. The answer to this question will depend on the individual hazardous substance, the provisions of the applicable existing lease and implementation of those provisions, and any remedial activities that may take place prior to the expiration of the existing leases.

22 12/19/24 Please conform whether highway signage is within the scope of the project or by others

MassDOT's Blue Board program (advertising upcoming Service Plazas and their tenants) will be available to the Operator. The implementation and changing of tenant signs is governed through MassDOT's Supplemental Signage Policy, which is available in the RIDs.

23 12/19/24 According to the provided HBMI there does not appear to be any ACM abatement required relative to building finishes

As summarized in the draft Hazardous Building Material Investigation ("HBMI") reports, no hazardous building materials were identified during the assessment of site structures. It is possible that hazardous building material(s) are present which were inaccessible during the investigation and if present, it is recommend that the suspect material be tested and managed appropriately.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 10

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

24 12/19/24 Please confirm whether it is acceptable to exclude this HBMI work from the proposal with consideration to the existing structures

As summarized in the draft HBMI reports, no hazardous building materials were identified during the assessment of site structures. It is possible that hazardous building material(s) are present which were inaccessible during the investigation and if present, it is recommend that the suspect material be tested and managed appropriately.

25 12/19/24 Is any information regarding HM relative to existing MEP systems or site utilities available?

As summarized in the draft HBMI reports, no hazardous building materials were identified during the assessment of site structures. The investigation did not evaluate site utilities.

26 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

Please clarify requirements beyond those not included in EO 569

Executive Order 569 is not a source of requirements for this Lease.

27 12/19/24 General Please confirm if MassDOT is exempt from any specific wetland requirements

It is MassDOT’s understanding that “As an agency of the Commonwealth providing essential government functions, MassDOT is exempt from certain municipal requirements including but not limited to wetland bylaws, ordinances and policies, and for paying peer review fees.

Additionally, MassDOT is not required to notify abutters per the WPA Regulations at

310 CMR 10.05(4).”

28 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 16

Please confirm who will retain ownership of the leasehold repairs property (e.g.

fuel tanks, EV chargers) etc

Please clarify this question.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 11

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

29 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 5

The corporate guarantor requirements, as proposed, will impact the ability to finance the project and will have a material impact on the potential contract economics. Can this requirement be removed.

MassDOT does not anticipate removing this requirement, but is taking this question under advisement. The guaranty of the Operator's parent will be reviewed by MassDOT in the context of the entire package of credit enhancements to be provided by Operator.

30 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 16

Please confirm when the renewal and replacement plan for each Service Plaza will be due?

The Operator shall prepare and submit, for MassDOT’s review and comment, draft Renewal and Replacement Plans for the Group 1 Service Plazas, prepared in accordance with the Contract Standards, no later than 90 days following the Effective Date. The Operator shall prepare and submit, for MassDOT’s review and comment, draft Renewal and Replacement Plans for the Group 2 Service Plazas, prepared in accordance with the Contract Standards, no later than 90 days following the Group 2 Commencement Date. The Operator shall submit draft updated Renewal and Replacement Plans, prepared in accordance with the Contract Standards, no later than 60 days prior to each anniversary of MassDOT’s approval of each Renewal and Replacement Plan.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 12

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

31 12/19/24 ITP, Section 2.2

The procurement schedule indicates the Proposal Date of February 18, 2025, at 11:00am, however, the cover page of the RFP indicates a proposal time of February 18, 2025, at 1:00pm. Can MassDOT please confirm the correct Proposal Date deadline?

See Addendum Number 2.

32 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 16

Where does the Proposer responsibility for snow and ice removal end and the MassDOT responsibility start. Would MassDOT be open to taking snow and ice removal responsibility on the Service Plazas - this is the most econimc way to manage snow removeal

See Appendix 1, Article I.B.5., of the Lease and Concession Agreement Commercial Term Sheet for the allocation of responsibility for snow and ice removal at the Service Plazas.

No, MassDOT will not take responsibility for snow and ice removal on the Service Plazas.

33 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 19

Will revenue generated from electric vehicle charging constitute Additional Rent or Percentage Rent under the Lease?

Except with respect to certain electric vehicle ("EV") chargers owned by third-parties, revenue from EV chargers is included in Gross Sales.

34 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 2

MassDOT reserves the right to modify the land and improvements at any of the Service Plazas - does this mean pre- Lessee occupation or post-Lessee occupation?

MassDOT will provide plans and/or legal descriptions for each Service Plaza prior to the development of the Master Revitalization Plan, which occurs prior to Lease execution. MassDOT will retain certain rights with respect to the leased premises.

35 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 2

Can MassDOT decide to install and operate the EV charging stations? When is that decision made?

See the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Requirements, to be issued in a future addendum.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 13

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

36 12/19/24 ITP, Section 3.1

Are Proposers able to submit hard copy versions of the Initial Proposal and the Proposal as well as the electronic version via Commbuys?

No.

37 12/19/24 ITP, Section 5.9

LLC's are legal entities that can enter into agreements on their own behalf. Please therefore confirm we do not need the sign off of the Major Participants to execute the Transition Agreement?

See clarifying edit in the next addendum.

38 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.A

Can MassDOT clarify the reference to “770 kW loading”? We understand that NEVI is supposed to have a total capacity of 600 kW per site?

MassDOT's interpretation is that a National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure ("NEVI") charging station must be capable of providing 150 kW at each port at all times.

MassDOT is not aware of any EVSE that provides 100% of the power it receives to vehilces. MassDOT studied 770 kW as a conservative number that would allow for a wide range of equipment with varying efficiencies to provide 150 kW to each of the four ports at a NEVI station.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 14

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

39 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2

Can the Authority explain the proposed approach in relation to responsibility for the management and associated cost of the clean-up of any pre-existing environmental issues on the sites. There are several references to this in the RFP and Lease, but the proposed approach is not clear.

Different leases, which all Proposers should review, place different responsibilities on existing tenants with respect to certain Hazardous Substances conditions at the property that exist upon the termination of existing leases. The answer to this question will depend on the individual Hazardous Substance, the provisions of the applicable existing lease and implementation of those provisions, and any remedial activities that may take place prior to the expiration of the existing leases.

40 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

Please confirm that operators must comply with EO594 requirements as it relates to new construction work. EO594 will require minimum standards such as

(i) Triple glazing at all windows & curtain wall, (ii) Solar, (iii) All electric mechanical & plumbing systems, (iv) Electric, heat pump mechanical systems, (v) Potentially all electric cooking in some locations

Any revitalization undertaken by an Operator at a Service Plaza will be expected to comply with applicable requirements of Executive Order 594 ("EO 594"). MassDOT expects to work with the Operator to identify and plan for any such applicable requirements through the processes resulting in both the Master Revitalization Plan and individual Plaza Management Plans.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 15

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

41 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

The RFP specifies that the design must comply with Executive Order 594. For rebuilds, please confirm heat pumps are required for HVAC and domestic hot water (DHW), and all-electric kitchen equipment is not required.

Any revitalization undertaken by an Operator at a Service Plaza will be expected to comply with applicable requirements of EO 594. MassDOT expects to work with the Operator to identify and plan for any such applicable requirements through the processes resulting in both the Master Revitalization Plan and individual Plaza Management Plans.

42 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

With respect to EO594, as the project does not include a new or fully reconstructed parking area, please confirm EV-charging readiness requirements are not required.

Any revitalization undertaken by an Operator at a Service Plaza will be expected to comply with applicable requirements of EO 594. MassDOT expects to work with the Operator to identify and plan for any such applicable requirements through the processes resulting in both the Master Revitalization Plan and individual Plaza Management Plans.

43 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

Please confirm EO594 applies to all new construction work, regardless of square footage or cost.

Any revitalization undertaken by an Operator at a Service Plaza will be expected to comply with applicable requirements of EO 594. MassDOT expects to work with the Operator to identify and plan for any such applicable requirements through the processes resulting in both the Master Revitalization Plan and individual Plaza Management Plans.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 16

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

44 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.2.B

Please confirm local requirements where more stringent, particularly those of the City of Newton mandating all-electric kitchens, take precedence over the provisions of Executive Order 594.

Massachusetts courts have held that a state entity is subject to municipal regulations, even when performing an essential governmental function, to the extent that those municipal regulations “do not interfere with [the state entity’s] ability to fulfil its essential governmental purposes” and have only a negligible effect on its operations.

45 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section I.D

Please share Appendix [XX]: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Requirements.

The Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Requirements is anticipated to be released on January 27, 2025. See Addendum Number 2.

46 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 11

Performance bond is particularly onerous across a 30 year term and will have a material impact on the economics of the project. Can this be removed.

MassDOT does not anticipate removing this requirement, but is taking this question under advisement. The performance bond will be reviewed by MassDOT in the context of the entire package of credit enhancements to be provided by the Operator. Please note that in lieu of a performance bond, a letter of credit will be accepted.

47 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section I.D

Does MassDOT plan on submitting work orders for 2 megawatts of power for EV charging at all service plazas, or just at Natick, Framingham, Ludlow (eastbound and westbound), Blandford (eastbound and westbound), and Lee (eastbound and westbound)?

Yes, these are the only Service Plazas at which MassDOT is currently pursuing work orders for 2 megawatts of power for EV charging.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 17

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

RFP

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

48 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section I.D

Has an analysis been carried out on the current electrical capacity at each service plaza to facilitate EV charging infrastructure? What is the available capacity at each service plaza?

Please reference "EPE_MassDOT Site List - Updated Hosting Capacity" and "will serve letters" included in the RIDs from Eversource for the following locations:

1. Plymouth

2. Lexington

3. Barnstable

4. Framingham

5. Ludlow

6. Newtown

7. Natick

8. Blandford EB & WB

9. Lee EB & WB

Please note the information provided by EPE is valid as of the date the document was submitted to MassDOT.

49 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section I.D

Regarding NEVI-compliant EV charging stations does this mean that NEVI funding will be available to the operator?

No.

50 12/19/24 Will the Proposer be able to make use of Make Ready Funding for the installation of EV chargers?

Yes, if the Operator and appropriate utility determine Make Ready Funding is available.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 18

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

51 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section I.D

Please confirm if the Proposer will have exclusive rights over EV charging at each of the Service Plazas

The Lease will reserve to MassDOT the right to install, and retain for itself, EV chargers funded by grant programs or if the Operator is not meeting the Lease requirements. The Lease also will reserve existing EV charging rights granted to Tesla. MassDOT may allow Tesla to service non-Tesla vehicles with its charging stations.

52 12/19/24 Please confirm who is the Chargepoint operator, and provide us with the contract for these chargers

The contract with ChargePoint is through Voltrek. These contracts will be included in the RIDs.

53 12/19/24 Please confirm who will own the power that MassDOT have submitted applications for. Please confirm the cost of this power

The account will initially be in MassDOT's name. It will ultimately be transferred to the next Operator during the term of the Lease.

The cost of the power is as set by the applicable utility.

54 12/19/24 Please provide details of the Tesla and Guardian performance to date in terms of power sold and revenue pass-up

MassDOT is not in possession of such data related to the Tesla chargers. Gross revenue from the Autel chargers for the period they were active in 2024 was $87,129.34. Additional information will be provided in the RIDs.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 19

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

55 12/19/24 What is the intention for the call centre at Charlton Eastbound and the utility company building at Lee Westbound? Is it expected that these buildings will remain?

The call center at the Charlton Eastbound Service Plaza has been relocated and this space is presently occupied by MassDOT operational staff that can be relocated off site. Thus, this call center space does not need to be replaced.

MassDOT is researching the utility building at the Lee Westbound Service Plaza and will release information in the RIDs if it becomes available.

56 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section II.A

Are the Service Plaza locations subject to local zoning regulations and Planning / Zoning Board approvals? As they are located on MassDOT property or rights of way, are the Service Plazas exempt from the zoning review?

Massachusetts courts have held that a state entity is subject to municipal regulations, even when performing an essential governmental function, to the extent that those municipal regulations “do not interfere with [the state entity’s] ability to fulfil its essential governmental purposes” and have only a negligible effect on its operations.

57 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section II.A

If the properties are exempt from local zoning regulations, does MassDOT have any published specifications for Lessee freestanding pylon signage, wall and canopy signage?

No, MassDOT does not have any published specifications for freestanding pylon signage or wall and canopy signage.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 20

Responses to Proposer Questions

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Date Submitted

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Proposer Question MassDOT Response

58 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section II.A

Can the E-Zpass, RMV and Travel and Tourism standalone locations (e.g. at Lee EB / Natick EB) be relocated within the Service Plazas provided the services are still being provided or must they stay at their existing locations within the Service Plazas?

The E-ZPass and Registry of Motor Vehicles ("RMV") Service Centers must remain at the current Service Plaza, but need not remain in their existing location.

Any relocation would need to provide similar functionality as existing operations (such as, security, communications lines, waiting areas, and similar conditions to protect customer confidentiality).

Travel and Tourism will maintain its presence in the Service Plazas, but does not need to remain in its existing locations and could be relocated but still must be accessible within the Service Plazas.

The program to relocate any of these operations/uses will be reviewed and approved in MassDOT's review of individual Plaza Management Plan.

59 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 1, Section II.A

Please provide the dimensions / sizing of the current E-ZPass centres at the resposective sites

MassDOT does not have the exact square footage of the existing E-ZPass centers.

However, as these spaces are relocated, the following E-ZPass monthly customer volumes should be considered: Natick 3,000; Ludlow 1,000; and Lee 450.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 21

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

60 12/19/24 ITP, Section 1.6.2;

Attachment B, Section B.9.2

Can MassDOT elaborate on how the additional evaluations points for higher SDP Commitments will be awarded?

Currently the SDP Plan is only evaluated on a qualitative basis (Proposal Part 8).

See edits in the next addendum.

61 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Section 7

Please confirm the form in which the initial deposit should be made - is this a cheque or a bank transfer?

Bank transfer.

62 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please confirm that the 'Guardian' contract will be assigned?

MassDOT, in conjuntion with the successful Proposer and Guardian will determine what contractual solution is chosen.

63 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please confirm the condition and expected lifespan of the Autel chargers.

Please confirm if these chargers are under warranty?

MassDOT cannot certify the expected lifespan of the existing Autel chargers. The Autel charger warranty will be added to the RIDs.

64 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please confirm if there are any site specific constraints or challenges (e.g.

grid capacity, operational issues or permitting) that might impact EV operations once the sites are taken over.

Please refer to the form of Lease documents, including the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Requirements, anticipated to be issued on January 27, 2025. See also the RIDs for additional information related site-specific constraints.

65 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please confirm who owns the Chargepoint chargers?

MassDOT.

66 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please confirm what is the intention for the ChargePoint chargers from 1 January 2026?

Please refer to the form of Lease documents, including the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Requirements, anticipated to be issued on January 27, 2025.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 22

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

67 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Please provide the existing contract for the ChargePoint chargers.

The ChargePoint contracts will be uploaded to the RIDs.

68 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Are there active ChargePoint cloud or assurance plans in place?

Yes, all have Assure and Cloud Plans.

69 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Are there any constraints in transferring the ChargePoint chargers to a new account?

MassDOT understands that ChargePoint may require a fee and an activation.

70 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

Where is the revenue for the Chargepoint chargers currently going?

To MassDOT.

71 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

What is the relevant OCPP level for the Autel chargers?

OCPP 1.6 JSON, OCPP 2.0.1.

72 12/19/24 Lease Concession Agreement, Appendix 2

How do drivers currently pay for evergy supplied at Autel chargers?

It is MassDOT's understanding that the Autel EV chargers are capable of collecting payment via app, RFID card, and POS machine.

73 12/19/24 RIDS We note that certain Reference Information Documents were updated with Addendum 1, however on the Nossman sharepoint, we cannot find the updated documents - please advise?

The identified documents have been uploaded to the RIDs.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 23

Responses to Proposer Questions

Question Number

Date Submitted

RFP

Reference

Proposer Question MassDOT Response

74 01/06/25 General Please provide us with an updated Appendix C - Historical Gross Sales Revenue from the Request for Information data provided, to include updated revenue, sales and fuel gallons to December 2024 or 2024 year to date information.

Updated Gross Sales Revenue Information that MassDOT has available will be uploaded to the RIDs.

If additional information becomes available it will be updated in the RIDs.

75 01/09/25 General Please provide an updated 'Gallonage- Data' workbook to outlining the fuel volume information for the Barnstable, Bridgewater North and Bridgewater South locations to show the split of gallonage between gas and diesel? The fuel volume on these three locations appear to be low compared to other comparable locations in the Project. Is it possible that the fuel gallonage provided in the Request for Information data pack is for diesel only and excludes the gas gallonage?

Updated Gallonage that MassDOT has available will be uploaded to the RIDs.

If additional information becomes available it will be updated in the RIDs.

MassDOT Bid No. BD-25-1030-CP01-CP01-107836 Service Plaza Operator 24

Responses to Proposer Questions