Q and A.docx

Q & A

Q1: What is the minimum number of parking spaces that must remain open at all times?

A1: There is no absolute minimum. The VA has agreed that it can absorb the loss of parking spaces as shown in the phasing plan of the contract drawings. The successful offeror can propose a different phasing plan for VA review. The proposed plan could also provide an alternative parking scenario such as off-site parking with a shuttle service. It should be noted that there is no guarantee that the VA will approve an alternative phasing plan. It should also be noted that any additional costs that result from an approved alternative phasing plan will be part of the offeror’s base bid and not considered a contract change.

Q2: Can we modify the phasing plan to accelerate the schedule?

A2: See answer to question #1.

Q3: Can they provide a copy of the as-built documents for the underground utilities, especially the electrical so we can better understand on the current Parking lot lighting is tied together/looped (once phase 1 is demo’d how will the rest of the lighting be affected?

A3: All known underground utilities are shown on sheet CS101 of the drawings.

Q4: Do we need temp generators to keep the other lights on?

A4: There is some flexibility here. Generators are one method. A temporary line from the existing source that meets NEC requirements is also an option. The contractor may propose still another method for VA review.

Q5: Can the contractors work (4) 10 Hour shifts?

A5: The VA will not specify how the work week is split up. The VA’s primary concern is that the project be completed within the specified schedule.

Q6: Which construction workers need to be badged for this project?

A6: Normal badging rules will apply. i.e. all those working on site will be badged. Materials delivery/removal trucking personnel on site for very short periods of time will generally not need to be badged.

Q7: Can the sub-base assuming there is 1’ of uniform structural fill (crusher run) under parking lot be used in the fill areas under the new sub-base?

A7: The answer is a qualified “yes”. The assumption that there is one foot of clean, uniform structural fill under the existing parking lot may not be valid. However, if the existing sub-base material meets the contract requirements after it has been excavated, stored and placed, then yes, it may be reused. If it does not meet the requirements or if it is contaminated during the excavation or storage phases, it shall not be used.

Q8: Can the Superintendent also be the SSHO?

A8: The offeror shall provide, from their own staff, a competent 30-hour OSHA certified superintendent. This individual shall be 100% full time dedicated to supervision and assigned to this project while work is being performed on site. If the originally assignment superintendent is not available for any reason then the offeror must notify the Government immediately and provide an alternate competent superintendent. The offeror shall not divide or split up their superintendence duties among multiple projects at the same facility. Each project stands alone and requires a dedicated superintendent to be allocated and funded to that particular project.

Q9: Is the contractor required to submit a Dig Permit prior to excavation?

A9: If the question means contacting Dig Safe NY prior to the start of work, then probably not. If work extends off federal property for any reason, then yes, Dig Safe NY will need to be contacted. The City of Albany also has a permit process for work within their right of way as noted on the drawings.

Q10: Are the contractors allowed to work nights and weekends?

A10: Yes, with reasonable notification and permission. The VA understands that certain portions of work will be performed more efficiently off-hours.

Q11: Can we submit an alternate based on phasing sequence?

A11: Contractors may propose an alternate phasing sequence as a submittal for VA review upon contract award. For now, contractors should prepare their response based on the information provided in the bidding documents.

Q12: #6 – Water & Sewer Permit required (Post in Job Trailer – Plans, Specs, Permits) City of Albany – Drainage structure #5 only. Please verify.

A12: While there is some work within the easement indicated on the drawings downstream of drainage structure #5, the City of Albany has indicated that a permit is only necessary for the structure. However, it’s probably a good idea for the contractor to include the downstream work on the permit request so that it is covered.

· Number of, Locations, and 3rd party inspections required. Who’s responsible?

A13: The note is clear in that the contractor is encouraged (not required) to excavate test pits to verify existing conditions. Number and location are up to the contractor and must be coordinated through the COR. The note does not require 3rd party inspection. The contractor is responsible for coordinating the work.

Demolition notes:

Q14: #4 – Water Truck. Is there site water available?

A14: There is a hydrant near the intersection of Elks Memorial Drive and Veterans Way that is shown on the drawings. See specifications for hook-up requirements.

Q15: #9 – Waste disposal. Locations?

A15: The note says that waste, debris, etc. is to be removed from the site and lawfully disposed of. The location(s) are up to the contractor.

Q16: #10 – Concrete slab below grade.

-Demo into 2’x2’ pieces (drainage) leave in place. Please clarify and/or explain further.

A16: As indicated in the note, the contractor will need to make a judgement call (with COR and engineering concurrence) whether a slab can stay and be broken up or must be removed.

Q17: #5 – No Low Points!! (Positive Drainage) Can locations be identified?

A17: Note #5 of the Demolition Notes is silent on low points. It’s assumed this refers to Note #5 of the Concrete Repair notes. This note is referring to low points created by the contractor. Thus, the low points cannot be identified pre- construction.

Pavement reconstruction notes:

Q18: #3 – Can we mix?

A18: The short answer here is that yes, a mix is possible. However, there are a lot of conditions in the note that must be met to re-use on-site material.

Q19: #5 – Staging.

-Material/Equipment. Please provide locations for spoils, equipment, material?

A19: Equipment and material staging areas are shown on the phasing plans of the drawings. The staging areas may be modified with permission from the VA COR. Excess material is required to be removed daily from the site. See Demolition Note #9.

Q22: #6 – Protect existing drainage catch basins. Is 12” CFS acceptable?

A22: The detail sheets in the contract drawings provide acceptable ways of protecting inlets. The contractor may use one of the methods shown or may propose an alternate method for review.