Project Manual (29).pdf

Preparer’s Certification for

Specifications, Special Specifications, Special Provisions, Estimate and Specification Data

Special Note:

The following items developed per the published Construction Drawings have been verified and included in the Purchasing Department’s Bid Specification Package which can be located at https://harriscountytx.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities. The items include:

Pricing/Delivery Information

Scope of Work

Special Provision to Standard Specifications

Special Specifications

Supplement to General Requirements

Contract Time

FOR:

SIDEWALK REPAIR PROGRAM

HARRIS COUNTY PRECINCT 2

SCOPE OF WORK

The contract is intended to be used for the construction of ADA compliant pedestrian facilities, including sidewalks and curb ramps. Other Bid Items are included to facilitate an accessible route including drainage modification and site restoration. Improvements may be located within Harris County Parks, surrounding cities, school districts, utility districts or other entities where an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) exists and include traffic control.

This project is for the provision of construction services for the delivery of variable scale civil construction projects for Harris County Precinct 2. Precinct will notify the Contractor, at various times, of locations where work within the above noted Precinct is to be completed. In general, the scope of work at each location may include the following items:

Construction of concrete sidewalks, shared use paths, curbs, driveways, and/or ADA ramps.

Adjustment of storm sewer trunkline, laterals, manholes, and inlets.

Backfill and restoration of disturbed areas.

Traffic control during construction.

Installation, maintenance, and disposal of Storm Water Pollution Protection Plan (SWPPP) mitigation measures.

The estimated bid quantities provided are contingent and only used only to evaluate bidder submissions. After award, a Purchase Order will be issued based upon the Precinct’s available budget for this work. The Contractor shall be paid based upon actual accepted work completed, at the unit price included within the bid. The Contractor shall not be entitled to any additional payment due to variations between the bid and actual quantities.

Construction Notes

The Contractor shall be aware of the following in the preparation of his bid.

General

1. Work performed under this contract shall be on a work order authorization basis. Details regarding the work order authorization process can be found in the “Special Provision to General Conditions for Roads, Bridges, and Related Work” included within the bid documents.

2. The Contractor shall not store materials or equipment on the roadway or right-of-way. Arrangements to provide a lay down area with adjacent property owners shall be the Contractor's responsibility. Proposed lay down and access areas must be submitted and approved in writing before proceeding.

3. There exists the possibility that other private utilities such as sprinklers, decorative lighting, etc. may be present and conflict with the proposed construction. In addition, there may be landscaping or decorative features that may need to be relocated to perform the work. All property owners shall be notified by the Contractor a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours prior to the removal and/or relocation of these features.

4. All property owners shall be notified by the Contractor a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours prior to blockage of driveways or entering of utility easements. The Contractor shall give written notifications to the neighboring residents of the anticipated work schedule, including the Contractor’s name, contact person and 24- hour phone number. Notice shall be given at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to beginning the work at the site.

5. The Contractor shall issue an official notification to the County a minimum of twenty-four (24) hours prior to commencing on-site work.

6. The Contractor shall be responsible for providing required security to protect his own property, equipment, and work in progress. Where directed by Harris County, orange barricade fencing shall be used to restrict public access to work and equipment.

7. The condition of the road right-of-way, upon completion of the work, shall be substantially equivalent to that found prior to commencement of construction. The Contractor will photograph the roadway surface and right-of-way prior to commencement of construction to be used as a benchmark for comparison purposes. Restoration of the road right-of-way shall be considered incidental to the work and no separate payment shall be made.

8. Items damaged by the Contractor that are located outside of the work area, whether in the road right-of-way or private property shall be repaired to a substantially equivalent state to that found prior to construction commencement at the Contractor’s expense, to the satisfaction of Harris County. Final acceptance of the work may be withheld by Harris County until such items are repaired.

9. As-built drawings for some existing facilities may be available. The Contractor may request a digital copy of any available drawings from Harris County.

10. Material Mix Designs – All materials mix designs shall be submitted to the CMT, as required, to determine if the comply with the pertinent specification and suitability for use for the construction of improvements.

11. Inspection – Precinct 2 will provide a Construction Project Manager and Inspector to oversee the administration of the contract.

12. Payment for Work - The bids submitted will be used to identify the lowest responsible bid. The bid quantities are for bid evaluation only. The actual work done will be paid at the unit pricing indicated on the bid.

2. Storm Sewers

1. All manhole covers and inlets shall be adjusted by the Contractor to match proposed finish concrete pavement, sidewalk, or driveway elevations.

3. Concrete Pavement, Sidewalks, Curbs and Driveways

1. Saw cutting of existing concrete pavement, curbs, and sidewalks shall be completed at locations where proposed construction ties into existing. Saw cutting shall be considered incidental to the work and will not be paid separately.

2. The Contractor shall minimize over excavation of subgrade. A uniform grade line shall be surveyed and staked by the Contractor prior to construction. Review and approval of the proposed grade by Harris County is required before excavation commences.

3. Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS) plan review, filing with the Texas Department of Licensing Standards and Regulation (TDLR), and TAS inspection are required for all projects consisting of pedestrian facilities and related work equal to or exceeding $50,000 in construction costs. For qualifying projects, Harris County will undertake registration of the project with TDLR, completion of the TAS review by a qualified provider, and arrange for the post-construction TAS inspection.

4. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to verify that the minimum dimensions, slopes, and cross slopes meet TAS requirements, while in the presence of the Harris County Inspector. Harris County reserves the right to inspect and determine whether the work meets these requirements.

5. Working limits for proposed driveways and sidewalks shall comply with specifications.

Longitudinal grades on proposed concrete pavement, curb, sidewalk shall follow existing grade lines or match those shown in the plans, as applicable. Curb ramps shall be constructed such that roadway drainage flows are not impeded, ponding within crosswalk areas is not impeded, and ponding areas can be dispersed either through flow or evaporation, within twenty-four (24) hours of a rain event.

6. Adjustment of any manholes, warning signs, or other utility infrastructure located within a proposed concrete pavement, sidewalk or driveway area shall be completed by the utility owner, in coordination with the Contractor and Harris County.

4. Traffic Control During Construction

1. Harris County Traffic Control Plan Standards will be provided to the Contractor as part of the plan package provided to the Contractor. The contractor shall provide a Traffic Control Plan for situations not listed in Harris County standards if needed on the work site. Pricing for the work shall be based upon the Traffic Control Plan provided.

Modifications to the proposed Traffic Control Plan must be approved by Harris County.

2. The Contractor shall notify Harris County of locations where existing signs, traffic signals, or other roadside items signs conflict with the proposed work. Further directions will be provided regarding relocation of these items.

3. All traffic control devices shall be in conformance with the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, (TMUTCD).

5. Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan

1. Contractor is responsible for cleaning of streets caused by associated construction at close of each workday. Brooming and/or cleaning-up of the roadway shall be incidental to the project.

2. Stage I and/or II inlet protection barriers shall be installed at all inlets within and downstream of the work area. Reinforced Filter Fabric Barriers shall be installed around the work limits plus any areas where overland flow from excavated areas may be concentrated.

3. All disturbed areas shall be sodded as directed by the Project Manager.

Other Construction Notes Accessible Routes

1. The intent of the Contract is to provide for the Construction of Sidewalks and other Pedestrian Facilities at various locations in Precinct 2. The Precinct will provide the Contractor several separate location(s), or segments where an accessible route in conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for pedestrians is to be constructed, including concrete curb ramps, sidewalks, median modifications, and the required traffic signage/markings.

2. This project requires that the sidewalks, crosswalks, and ramps be in conformance with the current ADA requirements. The Contractor is required to make himself familiar with the current Texas Accessibility Standards (TAS), as outlined by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). The current standards are available at http://www.license.state.tx.us/ab/abtas.htm.

3. Generalized drawings have been prepared that show typical installations and guidelines for construction of Sidewalks, Curb Ramps, Trails, Pedestrian Facilities and Traffic Control which are a part of Attachment M. These drawings prescribe typical requirements concerning slopes, materials, finishes and other information needed to construct the items.

4. At certain locations, due to existing roadway geometrics and elevations, it will be necessary to have additional drawings issued by an Engineer in order to construct the proposed facilities. In such instances, drawings will be prepared by the Engineer on an “as-needed” basis. Prepared Drawings will supersede the drawings contained in this document. For any items not included in the original Bid Sheet, the Contractor shall provide pricing based on these drawings which shall be included in their Basis of Estimate.

SPECIAL PROVISION TO GENERAL CONDITIONS FOR ROADS, BRIDGES

AND RELATED WORK

Upon issuance of the Notice to Proceed, the Contractor shall submit a detailed Construction Schedule for County review and approval. All quantities and cost estimates shall align with the bid items included in the Contract Documents to the greatest extent practicable. Contractor must commence work within 1 (one) business day of the Notice to Proceed. Failure to comply within this timeframe shall result in the assessment of liquidated damages in the amount of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per business day.

The Contractor shall achieve substantial completion of the work no later than five (5) business days following the approved Scheduled Finish Date. Failure to complete the work within this timeframe shall result in the assessment of liquidated damages in the amount of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per business day, commencing on the Scheduled Finish Date and continuing until the project is completed and passes substantial completion inspection. For purposes of this provision, a business day is defined as any calendar day excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and County-declared holidays.

The Contractor shall meet with the County to address any required changes to the scope of work or other measures necessary to facilitate timely completion. The County reserves the right, prior to acceptance of the Construction Schedule, to cancel any specific project if both parties cannot agree upon a mutually acceptable scope of work, quantity estimate, cost estimate, start date, or schedule.

WORK WITHIN THE CITY OF HOUSTON

Projects may be initiated that are located within the City of Houston which have specific requirements including paving sections, details, permitting and inspection/acceptance of work.

Included in the Project Manual is a Report File including the typical standard City of Houston Specifications and Details. Where these items are not available, the Contractor shall refer to the current City of Houston Infrastructure Design Manual (IDM) for clarification.

Drawings will typically be prepared by an Engineer or other Professional Services provider and if details are not available, the Contractor shall issue a Request for Information (RFI) for the information.

Where the City of Houston requirements conflict with the general Harris County Specifications or Details, the more stringent requirements shall prevail. The Contractor shall make themselves familiar with these requirements concerning pavement sections, paving thickness, concrete requirements and reinforcing. Typical drawings are included in the Project Manual for the Contractor’s guidance.

Plans will be submitted to the City of Houston Public Works and Engineering (PWE) department who will review and approve these drawings and coordinate with their utilities division concerning location and adjustment of water and sewer lines, owned by the City.

OTHER MUNICIPALITIES OR DISTRICTS

If work is to be done in other jurisdictions within Harris County Precinct 2, or involve other Municipalities, Municipal Utility Districts, Fresh Water Districts or other entities, plans will be reviewed and approved before they are issued for construction.

TRANSIT STOPS – METRO

Some of the proposed sidewalks and curb ramps may be located within the METRO (Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas) or other entity’s service area. Where required, the Contractor shall provide Transit Stops, including landing pads, retaining walls or foundations for Bus Shelters. Where required, these features shall be constructed in conformance with the drawings and standards. Coordination with the transit operator is required, however Transit Shelter are not included in the scope of work. Typical drawings are included in the Project Manual.

for the Contractor’s guidance and specific Bid Items noted as Transit Stops, Transit Stop Retaining Walls and Transit Landing Pads.

GENERAL NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

In accordance with House Bill 1059, a minimum of 25% of the work to be performed on this project shall be performed by the Bidder.

Special Notice: By law, the original price on firm fixed price contracts may not be increased by more than 25%. The original price may not be decreased by 18% or more without the consent of the contractor. Please monitor additions to your contract - additions in excess of 25% will not be paid under any circumstances.

On public works projects, all contractors shall supply a list of all suppliers and subcontractors with addresses and phone numbers, prior to work commencing.

At the time of the scheduled preconstruction meeting, the successful bidder shall supply to the County a list of representatives signed by an Officer of the Company who are authorized to sign official documents, i.e., Purchase Orders, Change Orders, Final Estimates, etc.

In determining who is a responsible bidder, Harris County may take into account the past performance of the bidder on Harris County projects. Commissioners Court adopted a written definition and criteria for determining the performance of a contractor which may be considered in determining the responsibility of a bidder.

Notice to Contractors of Texas Board of Professional Engineers Policy

Advisory Regarding Procurement of Engineering Services By General

Construction Contractors for Governmental Public Works Projects

On August 20, 2009, the Texas Board of Professional Engineers adopted a document entitled "Texas Board of Professional Engineers Policy Advisory Regarding Procurement of Engineering Services by a general Contractor for Governmental Public Works Projects". A copy of said Advisory is attached for information s h o u l d t h e Contractor decide to obtain any professional engineering services in accomplishing this Project.

SPECIAL NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

In the hauling of construction materials, excavation equipment or other items required in the completion of this project, the attention of prospective bidders is directed to ordinances and regulations of local, municipal, or county governments which limit the type or the gross weight of motor vehicle or construction equipment operating on public roads and streets, or which restrict the use of such equipment on certain streets.

It will be the responsibility of prospective bidders to investigate any limitations in routing, size of equipment, or gross vehicle weights which may be subject to regulations by local governmental jurisdictions.

Attention of prospective bidders is also invited to the provisions of City of Houston Ordinance No. 62-888, dated June 20, 1962, which requires the licensing of vehicles which are used in the transportation of earth, sand, shell, gravel and similar construction or excavated materials.

Approved by Harris County Commissioners' Court July 23, 1962, Vol. 51.

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS ON STORM WATER QUALITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

In addition to the regulatory requirements stated in the General Conditions, the Contractor shall recognize and comply with the following:

SECTION 1. STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLANS

A. COVERAGE

Coverage under the Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) General Permit TXR150000 for storm water discharges associated with construction activities is required for a project that disturbs 1 acre or greater (or is a part of a larger common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or greater). Coverage requires the preparation, implementation, inspection, and maintenance of a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), in accordance with the TPDES General Permit.

B. PROJECT CLASSIFICATION

This project is classified as one of three categories listed below. The Contractor shall be responsible for the storm water quality items, accordingly.

1. “Construction Sites That Do Not Require TPDES General Permit Coverage” The project disturbs less than 1 acre (and is not part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or more); therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is not required. However, the Contractor shall implement good housekeeping measures to minimize the potential for pollutants, associated with the construction activities, to enter the storm sewer system. Item 725, “General Source Controls”, shall be implemented by the Contractor, as well as any other erosion, sedimentation, and pollution controls shown in the plans and project manual.

or

2. “Small Construction Sites” The project disturbs 1 acre or more, but less than 5 acres, (or is part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 1 acre or more); therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor shall implement, inspect, and maintain the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan shown in the plans and project manual. Certification of a TCEQ Small Construction Site Notice (CSN) in accordance with Part II.E.2 of the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor, as a primary operator, as defined by TPDES General Permit, shall certify one Construction Site Notice (CSN) and provide this to Harris County at the time that the contract is awarded. Harris County (owner), as primary operator, as defined by TPDES General Permit, shall certify a second Construction Site Notice (CSN) at the time the contract is awarded. After the project is awarded, Harris County shall provide copies of the two certified Construction Site Notices (CSN) to the Contractor, and send copies to the local storm sewer operator for notification purposes. Prior to commencing construction activities, the Contractor shall laminate and post the notices on the project site in a location where they are readily available for public viewing. The Contractor shall maintain the posted notices until after completion of the construction activities and final stabilization of the project site as defined by the TPDES General Permit. When the project is completed and stabilization is achieved, as defined by the TPDES General Permit, then the Contractor shall note the date that the Small Construction Site Notice was removed from the project site. A copy of the completed Small Construction Site Notice shall be provided to the Engineer with the SWPPP records. The County shall then notify the local storm sewer operator that storm water associated with construction activities is no longer being discharged from the site.

or

3. “Large Construction Sites” The project disturbs 5 acres or greater (or is part of a common plan of development with the potential to disturb 5 acres or more); therefore, coverage under the TPDES General Permit is required. The Contractor shall implement, inspect, and maintain the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan shown in the plans and project manual. Certification of a Notice of Intent (NOI) in accordance with Part II.E.3 of the TPDES General Permit is required and shall be completed in accordance with Harris County Specification Item Number 700. The Contractor shall not commence with any earth disturbing activities on the project site until:

at least seven (7) days after submittal of the NOI (Harris County & Contractors) via U.S. Postal Service, or if Utilizing electronic submittal, prior to commencing construction activities, copies of signed NOI’s are submitted to any municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4) receiving discharge, at least seven (7) days prior to commencing construction activities. Contractor shall list in the SWPPP the names and addresses of all MS4 operators receiving a copy.

copies of the Certified NOI’s are posted in a publicly accessible location (copies shall be laminated or placed in weather resistant display case), and copies (Harris County & Primary Contractors) of construction site notice for large sites (CSN) are posted in a publicly accessible location.

After construction activities are complete and final stabilization is achieved (as defined by the TPDES General Permit), the Contractor shall certify one Notice of Termination (NOT) form and provide it to Harris County. Harris County shall certify a second NOT form. Harris County shall submit the two NOTs to the TCEQ and the local storm sewer system operator. After the NOTs have been submitted to the TCEQ, then the Contractor shall remove all temporary SWPPP controls, cease SWPPP inspections, and deliver copies of all SWPPP records to the Engineer who shall archive them for a minimum of three years. The final payment to the Contractor may be held until all SWPPP records are received by the Engineer.

SECTION 2. STORM WATER QUALITY MANAGEMENT PLANS

A. COVERAGE

If this project meets the definition of “new development” or “significant redevelopment” as defined in the Harris County regulations or City of Houston ordinance on storm water quality and the project is not “grandfathered” or “exempt” as defined by the regulation or ordinance, then a Storm Water Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) is required for the project, as shown in the construction plans.

B. CLASSIFICATION

This project is classified as one of three categories listed below. The Contractor shall be responsible for the storm water quality items, accordingly.

1. “SWQ Permit Within Unincorporated Harris County” If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan with permanent storm water quality controls is shown in the construction plans and the project is located in unincorporated Harris County, then a Storm Water Quality Management Plan is required prior to the start of construction. Prior to the start of construction, the Engineer shall submit the plans and Written Storm Water Quality Management Plan to the Harris County Permits Group and obtain the necessary signatures acknowledging acceptance of the Storm Water Quality Management Plan. The Contractor shall construct the SWQMP structural controls in accordance with the construction plans, and maintain the SWQMP structural controls until completion of the project and until the Engineer can certify that the SWQMP structural controls are constructed in accordance with the plans.

or

2. “SWQ Permit Within City of Houston” If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan with permanent storm water quality controls is shown in the construction plans and the project is located in the jurisdiction of the City of Houston, then a Storm Water Quality Management Permit is required prior to the start of construction. Prior to the start of construction, the Engineer shall submit to the City of Houston the construction plans, the City of Houston Storm Water Quality Management Plan Application for Permit, and all other related documents shown on the permit application and obtain the Storm Water Quality Management Permit. Prior to the start of construction, the Contractor shall post a performance bond to the City of Houston for the construction of the storm water quality structural controls.

The Contractor shall post a copy of the issued permit on the project site, construct the SWQMP structural controls in accordance with the construction plans, and maintain the SWQMP structural controls until completion of the project and until the Engineer can certify that the SWQMP structural controls are constructed in accordance with the plans.

The Engineer shall submit the Storm Water Quality Permit As-built Certificate to the City of Houston and Harris County shall begin implementation of the

SWQMP.

or

3. “Grandfathered or Exempt from SWQ Permit” or “Storm Water Quality Bank” If a Storm Water Quality Management Plan, or permanent storm water quality feature, is not shown in the construction plans, then a Storm Water Quality Management Permit is not required prior to the start of construction because it is grandfathered, exempt, or has provided storm water quality measures through the Storm Water Quality Bank.

SECTION 3. OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

A. BIOLOGICAL ISSUES

In accordance with requirements under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, if in the course of construction, a bird rookery, an identified special migratory bird habitat, or a nesting site is discovered on the project site, then the Contractor shall cease work in the area and immediately notify the Engineer.

In accordance with the Federal Endangered Species Act and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code, if a biological mitigation plan for specially protected flora and fauna species has been provided within the construction plans, then the Contractor shall comply with all requirements noted within the plan.

B. WATERS OF THE UNITED STATES INCLUDING ADJACENT WETLANDS

In accordance with Section 404 and Section 401 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands shall not be impacted by the Contractor unless a Department of the Army Permit has been obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the project.

If Harris County has obtained a Department of the Army Permit for this project, a copy of the permit is provided in the project manual. The Contractor shall comply with all requirements of the Department of the Army Permit. The Contractor shall not impact any waters of the United States and adjacent wetlands greater than the area and volume shown in the permit. If the Contractor impacts waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands on the project site that exceeds the area and volume shown in the permit, then the Contractor shall be responsible for any violations that may be issued by the regulatory agencies. If the Contractor deems it necessary to impact waters of the United States including adjacent wetlands that exceed the permit, then the Contractor must first notify the Engineer and the Engineer may obtain the necessary regulatory clearances prior to allowing the additional impacts to occur.

During construction of the project, if the Contractor uses off-site areas (not owned by

Harris County) for placement of borrow material, disposal of construction debris, staging of construction materials, usage as a field office, or other types of construction related activities, then the Contractor shall be solely responsible for obtaining all environmental permits for the off-site activity, as well as providing all environmental controls and compensatory mitigation requested by the permitting agency. If a regulatory violation occurs as a result of this off- site activity, then the Contractor shall be solely responsible for this violation.

C. STATE OWNED SUBMERGED LANDS

The Contractor shall not impact submerged lands regulated under the authority of the Texas General Land Office, or other local agency, without an easement agreement. If an easement agreement is necessary for the construction activities, then the easement agreement shall be obtained by Harris County.

D. CULTURAL RESOURCES

In accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act and the Antiquities Code of Texas, the Contractor shall not remove or disturb, or cause or permit to be removed or disturbed, any historical, archeological, architectural, or other cultural artifacts, relics, vestiges, remains, or objects of antiquity from the project site. In the event that such items are discovered on the project during construction activities, the Contractor shall immediately notify the Engineer. The site and the potentially significant material shall be protected by the Contractor from further disturbance until a professional examination of them can be made and/or until clearance to proceed with construction has been provided by the Engineer.

E. HAZARDOUS AND PETROLEUM SUBSTANCES

If during the course of construction, the Contractor discovers hazardous or petroleum substances or wastes on the project site, then the Contractor shall immediately cease work in the area and remove all personnel from the area. The contractor shall temporarily close the area to the public, as well; temporary fencing or caution tape shall be installed around the area. The Contractor shall notify the Engineer immediately.

Work in the area shall not be permitted until the Engineer has determined that safety and environmental issues have been properly addressed.

HCED-EN0-SS-001-00-C

NOTICE OF

SPECIFICATIONS

For the construction of this project, the Contractor shall use the attached Special Provisions, Special Specifications, and Office of the County Engineer (OCE) Specifications Book – Standard Specifications for the Construction of Roads and Bridges, effective date October 10, 2023. The current OCE specifications may be found at the OCE website: https://oce.harriscountytx.gov/Services/Consultants-Resources-and-Specifications/Standards-Specification/Standard-Engineering-Design- Specifications

When applicable, the Contractor shall use the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) 2020 Standard Specifications Book. The current HCFCD specifications may be found at the HCFCD website: https://www.hcfcd.org/Resources/Technical- Manuals/Standard- Specifications-Related- Drawings?folderId=15985&view=gridview&pageSize=10

When applicable, the Contractor shall also use the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) 2014 Standard Specifications Book. The current TxDOT specifications may be found at the TxDOT website: https://www.txdot.gov/business/resources/txdot-specifications.html

When applicable, the Contractor shall also use the City of Houston (COH) Standard Specifications. The current COH specifications may be found at the COH website: https://www.houstonpermittingcenter.org/office-city-engineer/design-and-construction- standards

I

TEM

REMOV

ING

CONCR

ETE

104.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for breaking up and satisfactorily disposing of concrete pavement, riprap, median strips, driveways, sidewalks, combined curb and gutter, or curb.

104.2 CONSTRUCTION.

Existing concrete to be disposed of, consisting of pavement, riprap, median strips, driveways, sidewalks, combined curb and gutter or curb, shall be removed and legally disposed of offsite. The use of explosives for breaking up concrete will not be permitted, unless authorized by HCED, and when so authorized, adequate precautions shall be given to prevent damage to adjacent property. Reinforcing steel shall be cut as necessary for satisfactory disposal.

Where only a portion of the existing concrete is to be removed, special care shall be exercised to avoid damage to that portion of the concrete to remain in place. The existing concrete shall be cut to the neat lines shown on the Contract Documents or as determined by EOR and any existing concrete, beyond the neat lines so established, which is damaged or destroyed by these operations shall be replaced at the Contractor's entire expense. Saw- cutting, full depth or as shown on the drawings, will be required and shall be incidental to the removal of concrete.

Where indicated on the Contract Documents, concrete which is removed shall be loaded, hauled, and disposed of at permitted locations outside the project limits, or may be used for riprap onsite with HCED’s approval. Broken concrete reused as riprap onsite will be incidental to this Item. The Contractor shall provide the disposal locations and the total quantity of all excavated material, and the total quantity of disposed material. The disposal site shall not be an environmentally sensitive area, “Water of the United States”, wetland, or floodway. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to contact the proper authorities to determine land use classification and to obtain any necessary permits. If the disposal site is specified in the Contract Documents, then the County shall be responsible for ensuring that the appropriate Department of the Army permit has been obtained for the activity, as necessary.

Work performed under this Item shall be initiated at such time and prosecuted in such a manner as to cause a minimum of inconvenience to traffic or adjacent property owners.

104.3 MEASUREMENT.

Existing concrete pavements with or without curbs, driveways, sidewalks, median strips, and riprap, removed as prescribed above, will be measured by the square yard in its original position, regardless of its thickness or the depth of covering.

Existing combined concrete curb and gutter and concrete curb, not on concrete pavement, removed as prescribed above will be measured by the linear foot in its original position, regardless of the dimensions of same.

Monolithic concrete curb or drilled-in concrete curb will be considered as part of the concrete pavement to be removed and will not be measured separately.

104.4 PAYMENT.

The work performed and materials furnished in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under "Measurement" shall be paid for at the unit price bid for "Removing Concrete" of the type specified, which price shall be full compensation for full depth saw-cutting or partial depth saw-cutting and breaking up the concrete; cutting reinforcing steel when required; loading, hauling and disposing of the material offsite; and for all labor, tools, equipment, manipulations and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

There are item code(s), description(s), and unit(s) for this Item.

END OF ITEM 104

ITEM 110

EXCAVATION

110.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for the excavation and stripping of areas as shown on the Contract Documents or as directed. The excavation shall conform to the required lines, grades, and typical sections as shown on the Contract Documents and cross-sections.

110.2 MATERIALS.

Materials meeting the requirements of the following Item shall be used for excavation.

A. Item 132 “Embankment”

110.3 CONSTRUCTION.

General. All suitable excavated materials shall be utilized, as practical, for constructing the required roadway sections or embankments, flattening slopes, grading, backfill, etc., or as determined by EOR and approved by HCED. Materials approved by HCED for use on site shall be used for embankment before using borrow material. Unsuitable and excess excavated materials not incorporated into the final project shall be legally disposed outside the project limits by the Contractor at his/her expense in accordance with Federal, State, and Local Regulations including all permits.

Disposal sites shall not be in environmentally sensitive areas, wetlands, floodways, or areas in the 500 year floodplain.

In cases where the Contractor has over-excavated beyond the lines and grades shown on the Contract Documents or designated by HCED, the Contractor shall be responsible to replace and compact the material at his/her own expense. The material shall be replaced in accordance with Item 132 "Embankment."

Excavation shall be maintained to avoid drainage obstructions and damage to the roadway section. Excavated areas shall be protected from excessive erosion and standing water.

At locations of pipeline crossings, the Contractor shall suspend excavation 5 feet from the pipeline right-of-way until a company representative is present to identify pipeline locations and to further direct excavation operations. The notification to the pipeline company and the request for their representative’s attendance shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. All work and/or expenditures as a result of crossing pipeline locations shall be completed at no cost to Harris County.

The Contractor shall refer to Item 560 “Project Site Cleanup and Maintenance” for cleanup schedule and frequency of disposal materials.

The roadbed and ditches shall be maintained in a condition to insure proper drainage at all times. Ditches shall be so constructed and maintained as to avoid damage to the roadway section.

Stripping Existing Topsoil. Strip existing topsoil to approximately 3 inches in depth or as shown on the Contract Documents for areas where existing grade is to be altered either by excavation or embankment. Stripped topsoil shall be considered unsuitable material and shall not be used in future construction.

Channels and Other Drainage Facilities. Channels and other drainage facilities which will be maintained by Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) shall be governed by the applicable HCFCD standards.

A temporary construction access across a channel shall require a permit.

The Contractor shall not be authorized to construct a temporary access without securing the required permit. Any temporary construction access that crosses a channel shall be constructed to allow a continuous flow at all times. The channel flow line shall not be blocked or raised at any temporary construction access.

Excavated material shall not be permanently or temporarily stored on the channel top of bank and temporary shelves shall not be cut into the channel side slopes without the approval of HCED.

At locations where lateral ditches or swales enter the channel, the Contractor shall perform grading, as required, to maintain the lateral ditches or swales within the easement area as approved by HCED. All work and/or expenditures as a result of grading lateral ditches or swales shall be completed at no cost to Harris County.

Prior to final inspection by HCED, the Contractor shall remove all sediment from the bottom of the channel and dispose of this material off site.

Sediment removal shall be disposed by the Contractor at his/her expense in accordance with Federal, State, and Local Regulations.

Contesting Earthwork Plan Quantities. For earthwork Items that are designated as “plan quantity” pay items, the following procedures shall apply for contesting the plan quantities:

If, after award of the project, the Contractor believes there is an error in the estimated quantities for earthwork items as shown on the bid sheet, the Contractor shall provide, at no expense to Harris County, sufficient documentation in the form of recoverable cross-sections and supporting computations. If the Contractor is required to re-survey a portion of the project for the purpose of contesting the quantity shown on the plan, the cross-sections shall be taken at the same locations and orientation of those presented in the plan set, and using the same control points. HCED shall, at the County’s expense, designate a representative, either a Consultant’s or Harris County’s surveyor, to verify the re-survey process meets the above requirements. The Contractor’s documentation shall be provided prior to proceeding with any items of earthwork. No adjustments to the plan quantity will be allowed once any excavation, including stripping, has begun.

The Contractor may submit a written notice of protest for earthwork at any time after the award date, but shall submit all required documentation no more than 30 calendar days after the latter of the following:

A. Project start date, or

B. Establishment of horizontal and vertical control points

If the documentation provided by the Contractor is deemed by Harris County to be sufficient, and is representative of actual field conditions, then the quantities derived shall be the basis of payment.

If the documentation provided by the Contractor is deemed by Harris County to be insufficient, additional supporting information may be required at no expense to Harris County. The Contractor shall submit the additional documentation no more than 14 calendar days after being notified of the County’s request.

Incentivized Projects. The time of early completion for receiving the incentive will not be extended on any incentivized project for any reason, including any time associated with a Contractor’s protest of earthwork quantities. If the Contractor chooses to protest earthwork quantities on an incentivized project, and is successful in gaining acceptance of the revised earthwork quantities, he may be granted extra days on the project in the same manner discussed below for “Non-Incentivized Project” as well as revision of the plan quantity, but that result shall not affect the early completion incentive time as per the “Supplement to Harris County General Condition (For Roads, Bridges, and Related Work)”.

Non-Incentivized Project. If the Contractor’s protest of earthwork quantities is accepted, the Contract Time may be adjusted for the contract time lost due to any of the following which falls after project start date:

1. Contractor’s time for submitting the original documentation after the project start date up to a maximum of 30 calendar days.

2. Additional calendar days may be granted for any part of Harris County’s original review period that occurs subsequent to the project start date.

3. Any additional days which were required for providing additional documentation pursuant to Harris County’s request, up to a maximum of 14 calendar days.

4. Any additional days which were required for Harris County to review additional documentation and render a decision.

If the Contractor’s protest of earthwork quantities is rejected, the Contract Time and the plan quantities shall not be adjusted.

Special Excavation. When geotechnical conditions dictate, HCED may direct the Contractor to remove material which will not properly support the roadway, and replace it with suitable backfill material. The backfill used to replace the unsuitable excavation shall be in accordance with Item 132 "Embankment."

When Special Excavation is required by HCED, the cubic yardage calculated will be paid as a separate Item.

110.4 MEASUREMENT.

Excavation. Excavation shall be measured by the cubic yard in its original position as computed by the method of average end areas.

Special Excavation. Special excavation shall be measured by the cubic yard of material as computed by volumetric calculations based on actual measured dimensions of the over-excavated area.

Grading. Grading of existing roadside ditches outside the limits of roadway cross-sections shall be measured by the linear foot along the centerline in its original condition.

110.5 PAYMENT.

The work performed and materials furnished in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under “Measurement” shall be paid for at the unit price bid for "Excavation (Roadway)," “Excavation (Channel),”

“Excavation (Other Drainage Facilities),” or “Excavation (Special).” This price is full compensation for preparing and maintaining roadside ditches;

trimming of slopes; hauling and storage of excavated material for other uses; disposal of unsuitable or surplus materials including stripping;

preparation and completion of subgrade and shoulders; any necessary hauling, placing, and compacting; and furnishing all materials, tools, equipment, labor, and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

Grading. The work performed and materials furnished in accordance with this Item and measured as provided under “Measurement” shall be paid for at the unit price bid for “Grading.” This price is full compensation for furnishing all labor, supervision, supplies, materials, permits, and equipment required to complete the work, including all items of excavation, disposal, haul, compaction, grading, and ditch dressing as specified in the Contract Documents.

NOTE: This Item requires other Standard Specifications Item 132 “Embankment” Item 560 “Project Site Cleanup and Maintenance”

END OF ITEM 110

ITEM 130

BORROW

130.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for proper utilization of fill materials secured from offsite sources obtained by the Contractor and approved by HCED.

Compaction of borrow shall conform to the density control method as outlined in Item 132 “Embankment.”

Borrow shall be used only when there is an insufficient quantity of suitable onsite material available as outlined by Item 132 “Embankment.” Borrow shall be used only as authorized by HCED, and shall be supplied from approved sources only.

130.2 REFERENCES.

A. ASTM D4318 “Standard Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and Plasticity Index of Soils”

130.3 MATERIALS.

Borrow material used for embankment shall consist of soil having a plasticity index not less than 12, nor more than 20 when tested in accordance with ASTM D4318 or as directed by HCED. The maximum liquid limit allowed is 45, unless otherwise approved by HCED. The Contractor is required to inform HCED of the location of the pit or pits from which the fill material is to be taken and shall provide samples of the material for approval by HCED.

In the event the material is not acceptable, as determined by HCED, the Contractor shall find other pit locations. All fill material shall be free from organic matter and deleterious material.

The use of a blend of cohesive and granular soils to achieve the required plasticity index will not be permitted.

130.4 CONSTRUCTION.

All suitable material obtained onsite and/or from borrow sources shall be used in the formation of embankments as required by Item 132 "Embankment," or shall otherwise be utilized as specified in the Contract Documents or as directed, and the completed work shall conform to the established alignment, grades and cross-section.

HCED shall be notified sufficiently in advance of opening any approved borrow source to permit necessary testing, prior to the use of the material as borrow.

The borrow site shall not be located within a “Water of the United States” or environmentally sensitive area. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to obtain any and all Federal, State, or Local permits associated with operation of the borrow site; if it is not an approved commercial borrow site.

County Borrow Source. During construction, the borrow source shall be kept drained, insofar as practicable, to permit final cross-sections to be taken when required.

The borrow source shall be left in a suitable condition, so as to provide proper drainage where practicable.

130.5 MEASUREMENT.

Borrow shall be measured by the cubic yard. Borrow is a plan quantity pay item that represents the excess embankment needed over the total excavated material from all onsite sources. These sources include, but may not be limited to:

A. Excavation (Item 110), B. and/or Excavation and Backfill for Structures (Item 400).

“Excavation” is calculated by cross sections using the average end area method, whereas “Excavation and Backfill for Structures” are volumetrically calculated.

After project award, if the Contractor feels there is an error in the estimated quantities for excavation, as shown on the bid sheet, the plan quantity may be protested as delineated in Article “Construction,” Section “Contesting Earthwork Plan Quantities” of Item 110 "Excavation.”

130.6 PAYMENT.

All work performed as required herein and measured as provided above, will be paid for at the unit price bid for “Borrow”, which price shall be full compensation for furnishing all labor, for all materials, for all royalties and freight involved, for all hauling, delivery and spreading on the road and compacting complete and in place and for all tools, equipment and incidentals necessary to complete the work.

Item 110 “Excavation” Item 132 “Embankment” Item 400 “Excavation and Backfill for Structures”

END OF ITEM 130

ITEM 132

EMBANKMENT

132.1 DESCRIPTION.

This Item shall govern for furnishing, placing, and compacting materials obtained from excavation of right-of-way, channels, and other drainage facilities; excavation for structures; and borrow used in the construction of projects where additional material is…