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36C24823R0102 Expand Electrical Distribution (BB 573A4-18-601)
BIDDER RFIs 07/06/2023
| CO & COR |
| 1. Drawing G-002 indicates a large amount of deductive alternates are to be provided. Is the VA going to submit a revised Price Schedule indicating CLIN Items for each of these alternates? |
| Deductive alternates CLINS are added |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 2. Bid Deduct Alternate #8 – See Drawing AD-100 and Key Note – D9 - The deduct states to deduct relocating the two (2) existing rooftop exhaust fans. Does this alternate also include deducting the demolition of the two (2) rooftop flue stacks? |
| A-E |
| 3. Technical Evaluation Factors, Factor 1: Relevant and Recent Past Performance – Factor 1 – Item 3 suggests that either a PPQ is required OR a completed CPARS may be provided for each submitted relevant project. Please verify that an actual copy of a previously completed CPARS may be provided in lieu of a PPQ as some projects completed 4 to 5 years ago do not have the original VA Contracting CO’s and/or VA COR’s around anymore to fill out PPQs. |
| Previous completed copy of CPARS may be provided. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 4. Can the VA provide a “true” pdf file of the drawing set? The existing set provided is a scanned version. |
| CO |
| 5. There was no Spec Section 01 00 00 provided with the solicitation. Warranty information in Spec Section 26 00 00 seems to refer to Spec Section 01 00 00 Warranty which does not exist. |
| Contracting – Was Spec 01 00 00 General Requirements included with the solicitation? |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 6. Please confirm no piles are required for the areas where installation generator concrete pad. |
Piles are required as shown on the drawings 7/6/2023
| A-E |
| 7. Please provide the latest copy of the VA’s Asbestos Containing Materials Report for Buildings 84 and 86. |
| Report will be provided with the answers to this RFI – CIH reports for Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint and PCBs are available. Locations for any identified asbestos may be found within the report |
| 7/3/23 |
| COR |
| 8. If the Contractor encounters any ACMs during the demolition and/or construction phases, and it delays the project, who is responsible for the costs of abatement? |
| VA will be responsible for the cost of the ACM abatement. Change Order may need to be generated. |
| 7/3/23 |
| COR |
| 9. If the Contractor encounters any ACMs during the demolition and/or construction phases, and it delays the project, who is responsible for the additional costs associated with the delays (i.e., carrying a temporary transformer, temporary substation, etc.) until the abatement is resolved? |
| VA will be responsible for the cost of the ACM abatement. Change Order may need to be generated. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 10. Who owns the existing (old) generator, radiator, main breaker, and diesel fuel tank once removed? |
| A-E & COR |
| 11. Can lifts be performed during normal working hours or must they be performed on weekends, holidays, evenings, or nights? |
| DEFINE LIFTS. IF THE “LIFT” WILL NOT INTERFERE WITH PATIENT OR STAFF ACCESS THEN THE “LIFT” CAN BE PERFORMED DURING NORMAL WORKING HOURS |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 12. Who is responsible for removal of existing diesel fuel that resides currently in the generator tanks and/or day tanks? |
| A-E & COR |
| 13. Does the VA want to relocate the removed diesel fuel? |
| A-E & COR |
| 14. If the VA wants to relocate the removed diesel fuel, where do they want it deposited (i.e., in new generator fuel tank, boiler plant #2 fuel oil tanks, or other)? |
| NO - See Answer to #13. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 15. If the VA does NOT want to reuse the removed diesel fuel, who is responsible for the diesel fuel oil disposal? |
| COR |
| 16. Has the VA verified that demolishing the existing diesel fuel tank and modifying the existing tank concrete pad will NOT result in requiring any hazardous soil abatement by the contractor? |
The contractor takes responsibility for fuel spills and hazardous soil abatement during the demolition, Installation and commissioning of generator and fuel tank.
7/3/23
| COR |
| 17. Does the VA have a assessment or soil report verifying that no soil at the demolition and/or new construction areas has hazardous conditions due to an existing diesel tank that may have leaked into the surrounding soils? |
| VA does not have a soil report of fuel leaking in the soil. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 18. Who is responsible for any resulting hazardous soils that may be discovered during the project? |
| A-E & COR |
| 19. Who is responsible for the costs associated with filling up the new generator fuel tank with new diesel fuel? |
| A-E & COR |
| 20. Who is responsible for the costs associated with filling up the new generator with new Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)? |
| A-E |
| 21. Is the VA going to provide a generator equipment schedule indicating integral diesel fuel tank dimensions and weights since it appears that the new 750KW genset is being set outside and will have an integral day tank AND a 96-hour fuel tank as one? This is also important to understand DEF capacities along with physical size and weights for concrete pad capacities, hoisting equipment, etc. |
The generator will be located outside on a hurricane rated enclosure with a 96 hour sub-base fuel tank.
Size and concrete foundation has been coordinated with architectural team.
7/6/2023
| A-E |
| 22. Spec Section 26 32 13 – Section 1.7 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS, Section C.3. indicates spare parts for generator information. What spare parts is the Contractor responsible to provide for the generator on this project? |
Section 1.7 requires a parts list with catalog numbers for ordering in case parts need to be purchased.
No additional physical spare parts are expected.
7/6/2023
| A-E |
| 23. Spec Section 26 32 13 – Section 1.7 OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS. Typically, we see the requested warranty for the generator listed in this section. However, none is provided. Please provide the total duration of warranty (and/or extended warranty) the Contractor is to provide on the new generator. |
| Warranty shall be 5 years |
| 7/6/2023 |
| COR |
| 24. Can the VA provide us a copy of the NEPA Assessment Form for our review? |
| As part of the NEPA Assessment form, VA provided the CATEX form. |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 25. What EPA Tier Level (i.e., 1, 2, 3, or 4) regarding generator exhaust emissions is the new generator required to be for this project? |
| A-E |
| 26. If the VA requires an EPA Tier 4 Generator, the exhaust after-treatment equipment is much more substantial in size than a standard generator exhaust system. Has it been confirmed that a Tier 4-rated generator will physically fit in the space shown on the drawings? |
| A-E |
| 27. If the VA requires EPA Tier 4 Generators, the after-treatment equipment is much more substantial in size than a standard generator exhaust system. If the equipment does not fit in the space shown on the drawings, who is responsible for developing a solution and the additional costs that may be incurred for the construction modifications? |
| A-E |
| 28. What are the requirements for the generator’s exhaust system? Specifically, please provide the following information - diesel particulate filters, diesel oxidation catalysts, and selective catalytic reduction means that the VA expects for the new generator. |
Provide critical silencer, emissions criteria shall be provided by vendor for evaluation.
76/23
| A-E & COR |
| 29. Spec Section 01 00 00 Item 1.15 WARRANTY MANAGEMENT - Is the contractor responsible for providing ANY on-site preventive maintenance service tasks during the generator 1st year warranty period? |
| YES, The contractor is to provide ANY necessary PM required and recommended by the equipment manufacturer |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 30. Spec Section 01 00 00 Item 1.15 WARRANTY MANAGEMENT - Is the contractor responsible for providing ANY on-site preventive maintenance service tasks during the generator “extended” year warranty periods? |
| Yes, The contractor is to provide ANY necessary PM required and recommended by the equipment manufacturer |
| 7/3/23 |
| COR |
| 31. What is the maximum allowed outage duration (in hours) for transferring power cabling from existing and new ATS Gear to the new generator that the VA is going to allow? |
| This will be weekend work and allow up to 24 hours or earlier to complete the work For ex. Beginning shut down at 8pm Friday night and must be back online by Sat 8 pm. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 32. Is the VA expecting the Contractor to include a temporary generator, temporary power cables, and diesel fuel required for a temporary generator on this project? |
| COR |
| 33. When will transferring of power cabling from existing equipment to new equipment (aka outages) be allowed (i.e., weekends, holidays, evenings, or nights only)? |
| Weekends only. Depending on how large the work is, may need to perform work on holiday-weekends. |
| 7/3/23 |
| CO & COR |
| 34. If the VA decides to reschedule the pre-scheduled outages for any reason, who is responsible for the costs incurred as a direct result of the delays? |
Careful planning and scheduling by both the contractor and VA must be a priority. If the VA reschedules the outages just prior to the outages. An REA may be an option.
| A-E |
| 35. Will the new ATS equipment be required to be integrated/physically connected into any third-party monitoring system that resides on site? |
| A-E |
| 36. Will the ATS equipment require that the contractor provide and install remote annunciator panels? |
| A-E |
| 37. If the ATS equipment requires remote annunciator panels, where are they to be installed and how are they to be installed (i.e., hardwire, RF wireless, other)? |
At new switchgear room, hard wired 7/6/23
| A-E & COR |
| 38. Can existing conduits be reused for this project? |
| If existing conduits are not damaged and in good condition. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 39. Spec Section 01 45 29 - TESTING LABORATORY SERVICES. There are a number of a materials testing activities and inspection services listed in this specification section including building slab subgrade tests, foundation wall backfill tests, pavement subgrade tests, curb, gutter and sidewalk tests, trenching tests, footing subgrade tests, fill and backfill material gradation tests, testing for footing bearing capacity, and testing materials (as directed by the COR). Are these specific tests going to be required by the VA for this particular project? |
YES, and minimum requirements for acceptance may be found in other specification sections, i.e., 03 30 00, 31 20 00, 32 05 23, 32 90 00 and any others as found 7/6/23
| A-E |
| 40. Spec Section 01 45 29 - TESTING LABORATORY SERVICES. There are a number of a materials testing activities and inspection services listed in this specification section including testing topsoil for organic materials. Is this specific test going to be required by the VA for this particular project? |
YES, and minimum requirements for acceptance may be found in other specification sections, i.e., 03 30 00, 31 20 00, 32 05 23, 32 90 00 and any others as found 7/6/23
| A-E |
| 41. Spec Section 01 45 29 - TESTING LABORATORY SERVICES. There are a number of a materials testing activities and inspection services listed in this specification section including the asphalt and concrete paving tests. Are these tests going to be required by the VA for this particular project? |
YES, and minimum requirements for acceptance may be found in other specification sections, i.e., 03 30 00, 32 05 23, 32 12 16 and any others as found 7/6/23
| A-E |
| 42. What are the dimensions of the opening of the generator room louvers where it is recommended to remove demolished equipment? |
| Provided by manufacturer |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR |
| 43. Laydown Area – Will the contractor be provided adequate space to deliver and temporarily store the generator until installation, or will the contractor have to store it off-site? |
| VA will work with the contractor on storage space. |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 44. Manhole #3 (Feeders #1 and #2) – Can the VA provide photos inside the manhole? |
| Photos were taken and will be provided |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 45. Quantity of Generators to be Replaced – The VA mentioned that there may be more than one (1) generator being replaced on this project. Please verify that there is only one (1) generator being replaced as part of this project. |
| ONLY ONE GENERATOR IS BEING REPLACED |
| 7/3/23 |
| CO & COR |
| 46. Second Site Visit - Would it be possible to schedule another site visit due to the complexity of this project and have AKEA A/E (electrical and civil engineers) on-site this time for feedback? |
| Due to the timing of awarding this project. A second site visit may not be possible. |
| 7/3/23 |
| COR |
| 47. Dumpster Locations - It was discussed on the site visit that the VA requires distant locations for dumpsters. Please share exactly where the construction dumpsters are to be located during the duration of this project. |
| Dumpster will be located in the VA parking lot behind VA hospital (southeast parking lot). |
| 7/3/23 |
| A-E |
| 48. Spec Section 23 08 00 - COMMISSIONING OF HVAC SYSTEMS |
Para 1.1B states “The complete list of equipment and systems to be commissioned is specified in Section 01 91 00 GENERAL COMMISSIONING REQUIREMENTS.” Section 01 91 00 was not provided, will the VA be providing this section?
Section 01 91 00 GENERAL COMMISSIONING REQUIREMENTS was included
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 49. Spec Section 23 08 00 - COMMISSIONING OF HVAC SYSTEMS |
Para 1.1B states “The commissioning process, which the Contractor is responsible to execute, is defined in Section 01 91 00 GENERAL COMMISSIONING REQUIRMENTS. A Commissioning Agent (CxA) appointed by the VA will manage the commissioning process.” Will the VA be providing the CxA?
YES, per the TIL Master Specification, the VA provides the CxA. Also, per the attached 01 91 00 from #48
7/5/23
| COR |
| 50. What are the ICRA classifications for the project? |
| This may be a Class IV. Depending on the latest VA ICRA requirements. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 51. The wage decision provided is for Lake County, should this be Columbia County? |
| YES – COLUMBIA COUNTY |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 52. Does the VA know the depth/top of existing steam/chilled water tunnel near the new substation addition? |
| YES, according to Master Utility Plan, 95% Submittal, point VVH232 depth to Steam utility duct is 4.84’, VA to provide confirmation of final Plan report. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 53. Has an Environmental Site Assessment(s) been conducted for the AST? If so, will the VA share the report? If not, who is responsible for any required assessments? |
| The impact of this project has been determined a categorical exclusion see CATEX document provided. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 54. Sheet EP200- Electrical Conduit routing plan (Detail 5)- Key Notes on this sheet don’t seem to pertain to this sheet. How should notes 1 and 4 actually read? |
| Ignore sheet notes #1 and #4 for sheet EP200 |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 55. Sheet EP200 shows the proposed route for the feeders between building 84 and 86 and this area is very congested. Is this route a suggested or mandatory route? |
| Suggested route only. If the contractor can find a better route that is suitable to the VA, that too will be acceptable. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 56. Sheet EP200- Nearly the entire route will follow an existing rack of conduits. In most cases this rack will be below 15’ AFF. The specs require all conduit below 15’ to RGS or IMC. Are these feeders expected to be installed in RMC or IMC, or is EMT acceptable below 15’ in the basement? |
| RMC, IMC and EMT is acceptable. Couplings shall be threaded OR compression type. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 57. Drawing E201 Note 7 mentions providing a “Master Label” for the lightning protection system, however it is our understanding that a Master Label cannot be provided for an extension of an existing system. This would need to be a “Letter of Findings”. Can the VA confirm that a letter of findings is adequate? |
| Contractor to provide “Letter of Findings”, not Master Label |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 58. Drawing E003 has a Fire Alarm specification in the upper right hand corner, yet we would like more information such as a riser diagram for the existing system, showing how the new devices are integrated into the system. Can the VA provide this information? |
| FA Riser diagram will be provided |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR |
| 59. It is understood that Siemens also distributes fire alarm systems (FAS) for install by other 3rd party Distributors. Is the system at the LCVAMC an actual “Siemens-manufactured and proprietary” fire alarm system, or a system that a Siemens Distributor provides and maintains? |
| Siemens manufactured and proprietary fire alarm system. Building Automation System is Desigo |
| 7/5/23 |
60. If the FAS is not a Siemens-manufactured (proprietary) system, can the Contractor use a Siemens FAS Distributor to perform this work?
| Siemens manufactured and proprietary fire alarm system. |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR & CO |
| 61. The period of performance is listed at 365 days. Some lead times for electrical equipment exceed 365 days. How do we reflect this in the 365-day project schedule which is required with our proposal without being disqualified? |
| VA understand the long lead time for electrical equipment. Contracting Officer can extend contract POP for such long lead items. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 62. Are future raceways/conduits shown on the riser diagram on sheet E602 part of this bid-package? |
| “Future” conduit, panels and transformers are NOT part of this project. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 63. E003: General Electrical Notes (VA LC Elec Exp, 7/20/2021 (NOTE #14)- This note states to provide expansion couplings at all expansion joints. Can the VA please provide a drawing showing the number of expansion joints from building 86 to 84? |
| Assume 10 for this time. Additional details will be provided when received. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 64. E003: General Electrical Specification (VA LC Elec Exp 9/07/2021) (NOTE 10)- This note requires providing lugs for owner furnished equipment. Can the VA please provide a list of the specific owner-furnished equipment? |
| There will be NO owner furnished equipment. Ignore this note. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 65. The Dry Type MV Transformer in Section 26 12 16 specifically calls out for (2) different types of insulation styles. Par 2.4 calls for the standard VPI type (vacuum pressure impregnated). But par 2.6 calls for Cast Coil type – much more expensive than VPI. Which type of insulation is required (VPI type or Cast Coil type)? |
| A-E |
| 66. General question on HVAC, there are no line set details on prints indicating routes or penetrations. Can the routes and wall types be provided along with wall ratings? |
It is a job site coordination between the mechanical contractor and the architect.
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 67. What type of hurricane pads for the condensing units are required? |
1. Per section 23 81 43 Part 3.1.A Install heat pumps according to manufacturers printed instructions.
2. Detail will be provided.
3. Contract send shop drawing for review and approval.
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 68. Can the VA provide the HVAC equipment schedule that includes the make, model number etc. (i.e., BOD)? |
Equipment's’ make, model, numbers, etc. shall be provided by the contractor for review and approval per the drawings and specifications, 7/5/23
| A-E |
| 69. There appears to be no duct details, are we to assume there are no ducts in this project? If so, can the VA please provide details for routing and sizes? |
For the floor stand AHUs, it is a short duct leaving from the unit with a supply register. Similar to the existing.
For the mini-splits units types, they are ductless.
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 70. Drawing PD401 sheet keynote #1. The note discusses everything but the shower pan shown and toilet on the drawings. It appears based on the line type that the pan also is to be demolished. Is the shower pan to be demolished/removed? |
Restroom fixtures/accessories with dashed lines will be demolished including lavatory, toilet, shower pan, other fixtures/accessories inside the restroom for the Serenity place family room A334, including the ceiling, wall, and floor finishes.
Refer to Sheet AD102 for more information.
7/6/23
| A-E |
| 71. Drawing PD401 sheet keynote #1. The note discusses everything but the shower pan shown and toilet on the drawings. It appears based on the line type that the toilet is to be demolished. Is the toilet to be demolished/removed? |
Restroom fixtures/accessories with dashed lines will be demolished including lavatory, toilet, shower pan, other fixtures/accessories inside the restroom for the Serenity place family room A334, including the ceiling, wall, and floor finishes.
Refer to Sheet AD102 for more information.
7/6/23
| COR |
| 72. Can the VA confirm if the campus is under an existing larger Storm Water Prevention Plan and if so, please provide the plan? |
| VA does not have any active SWPPP in place. The contractor must meet the SJWMD requirements during the construction. |
| 7/7/23 |
| COR |
| 73. Can the VA provide Civil asbuilts reflecting the existing storm water drainage system, topo survey and roads? |
| VA maybe able to provide existing civil drawings. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 74. All plumbing demo sheets- the general keynote describes what to be removed and capped. Are we expected to cap at the wall or are we to remove all piping back to the mains so there are no dead legs? If so, can the VA provide riser diagrams? |
The intention is to cap all piping back to the mains to avoid dead legs.
No riser diagrams required for demolitions drawings.
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 75. Fire Protection sheet notes – The notes discuss a pump test conducted 1/3/22 and the next test scheduled for 1/3/23 to be shown on next submittal. Is 4.4.1 the results of the 2022 tests or the 2023 tests? If 2022 will the 2023 results be provided? |
The pump test day of 01/03/22 was provided by the VA during the design process.
If the construction starts in a year or several years later, that information for the current year or later shall be required by the Fire Protection Contractor. VA shall provide results of latest tests.
7/5/23
| A-E |
| 76. Are Fire Protection asbuilts indicating the piping and existing head location available and if so, can the VA provide them. |
| The VA shall have to provide the existing shop drawing to the Fire Department Contractor. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 77. Sheet S001 – Foundation Note 1.02: The note states that all foundation work to be conducted by guidance of a Geotech firm. Is this the VA firm or is the contractor to provide this engineer? |
| Provided by the contractor |
| 7/7/23 |
| A-E |
| 78. The specifications did not include masonry units for CMU or brick. Will the section Unit Masonry be provided or are we to follow S001 masonry notes? |
| Use S001 masonry notes. |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR |
| 79. It appears that various locations on the exterior of the building have been infilled with brick in the past. Does the VA have any information on the brick; (i.e., the supplier, or previous brick product submittals)? |
| VA does not have any information on the brick. Contractor to provide same size appropriate brick match and color. Need approval from VA. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 80. Architectural drawings note states: “REMOVE EXISTING VCT AND CERAMIC TILES/CLEAN THE FLOOR AND PAINT WITH CLEAR CONCRETE SEALANT.” What floor prep is required once the VCT, tile and other finishes are removed? Example- are the shower pans recessed in the floor slab, is there a difference in finish floor level compared to the adjacent room that has to be considered? |
| Prepare surfaces for future construction and finishes, match immediately adjacent structural floor elevation, accounting for floor finishes to remain leveled or properly sloped to drain if applicable. Infill any slope or floor gaps not needed in final construction. Shower pan recess in slab to be confirmed by contractor. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 81. Sheet AD102 Demo Plan Notes #4 as an example for all spaces– The note discusses repair and extend existing elements and so on. Is the intent to extend any wall finish to the underside of the deck in each space once ceilings are removed? If so, what are the existing ceiling heights and the height of the decks for all areas? |
Yes, the intent is to extend the new (fire rated) walls finishes to the underside of the deck. The new rooms assigned to be electrical closets will have painted gyp bd.
walls.
3rd and 4th floors, after demolition of the existing restrooms, the new walls will be painted, to match existing. (Refer to finish schedule A502).
Existing ceiling heights as follows:
Building 64 Basement floor -Existing PMR Storage AB10 = existing below slab height = 13’-8” For the patient clothing room AB11 existing ceiling height is 7’-10” -New Elec. closet AB10 = Below slab height = 13’-8” same existing 1st floor -Existing Escort Service A131 = existing ceiling height = 8’-1” -New Elec. closet -1B A189 = Below slab height = 11’-7” 2ND floor -Existing office Pharmacy A237 = existing ceiling height = 8’-4” -New Elec. closet-2, A238 = Below slab height = 11’-7” New ceiling height for the office pharmacy A237 = match existing ceiling height = 8’-4” 3rd floor
-Existing serenity place family room A334 = existing ceiling height = 8’- 11”, Restroom ceiling height = 8’-1” -New Elec. closet-3, A336 = Below slab height = 11’-7” -New ceiling height for the waiting room A334 = 8’-11” 4th floor -Existing Ophthalmology/surgery/pre-op A424B = existing ceiling height = 8’- 6” New Elec. closet -4 A424B = Below slab height = 11’-11”
| CO |
| 82. Can the VA provide an additional site visit once RFI’s an responded to? |
| Due to the timing of awarding this project. A second site visit may not be possible. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 83. The architectural drawings do not reflect any sills. It appears that sills exist under openings now. Are sills similar to the existing to be included and if so, can details for them be provided? |
| Sills to match adjacent existing. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 84. Sheet S001 – Equipment Notes, the notes require the contractor to provide structural engineer for all mounted equipment. Can the VA confirm these costs are to be included in the contractor’s proposal? |
All equipment anchorages to the structure shall be designed by the contractors delegated design engineer for the equipment 7/6/23
| A-E |
| 85. Sheets S101 and Detail 6 on S301. The S101 drawing appears to reflect eight (8) locations for micro piles (6 on pad, 2 on foundation). However, 6/S301 appears there may be more than eight (8). Can the VA confirm only eight (8) piles are required or further clarify the locations for the missing ones? |
Piles are required under the transformer pad, each column pile cap and grade beams as shown on the drawings by the dark circles 7/6/23
| COR |
| 86. Many of the dates on the specs have newer versions on the TIL. Example, most of the HVAC specs are all newer dated on the TIL compared to the spec TOC dates. Can the VA confirm we are to use the specs provided? |
| Note: specs are usually tied to the dates that the specs existing during the design process, not afterward. If the gap between newer date on TIL vs spec TOC date is significant than the new TIL spec are to be used. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 87. Specification 01 45 00 para 3.4C, This section includes additional QC staff specified in the Experience Matrix. “These individuals or specified technical companies are directly employed by the General Contractor and cannot be employed by a supplier or subcontractor on this project; be responsible to the CQC System Manager; be physically present at the construction site during work on the specialized personnel’s areas of responsibility; have the necessary education or experience in accordance with the Experience Matrix listed herein.” Can the VA confirm specifically which individuals listed on this matrix are required and to be included in the Contractor’s price? |
| States, “as applicable”. Contractor to determine if additional CQC personnel beyond the CQC System Manager will be necessary to complete their CQC organization. Note this is a Design – Bid – Build project so reference to design quality control do not apply. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E |
| 88. Specification 01 45 00 para 3.4C - This section includes additional QC staff specified in the Experience Matrix. “These individuals or specified technical companies are directly employed by the General Contractor and cannot be employed by a supplier or subcontractor on this project; be responsible to the CQC System Manager; be physically present at the construction site during work on the specialized personnel’s areas of responsibility; have the necessary education or experience in accordance with the Experience Matrix listed herein.” Is the Contractor required to show these specific individuals in their proposal org chart? |
States, “as applicable”. Contractor to determine if additional CQC personnel beyond the CQC System Manager will be necessary to complete their CQC organization. Note this is a Design – Bid – Build project so reference to design quality control do not apply.
7/5/23
| A-E & COR |
| 89. Specification 01 45 00 para 3.4D, This section states “CQC System Manager and Alternate CQC System Manager are required to have completed the Construction Quality Management (CQM) for Construction course.” Can the VA confirm that this is required? |
The requirement comes from the Master TIL therefor is a requirement.
7/5/23
| COR |
| 90. Can the VA confirm if the superintendent can have collateral duties as the QC manager and/or SSHO? |
| If the superintendent provides certifications and experience of documentation of performing the QC manager and SSHO. Provided they have higher level OSHA Training such as OSHA 500 Level. |
| 7/5/23 |
91.
INTENTIONALLY OMITTED
| A-E |
| 92. Sheet AD100 Sheet Keynote D23 states “REMOVE EXISTING VCT AND CERAMIC TILES/CLEAN THE FLOOR AND PAINT WITH CLEAR CONCRETE SEALANT.” Can the VA confirm this generator room has VCT/tile? |
The existing room name is (escort service A131) with VCT tiles on the floor – the new room name will be (Elec. closet-1B A189) with concrete seal for the floor and painting on the walls (new fire rated walls) per the finish schedule on sheet A502.
7/6/23
| A-E |
| 93. Sheet AD101 Sheet Keynote D20 states “REMOVE EXISTING CONCRETE PAD.” Can the VA clarify what condition the floor slab shall be left in once the pad is removed (i.e., does it need to leveled, polished, and finished)? |
Yes, leveled, polished, and finished to match adjacent existing.
7/5/23
| COR |
| 94. Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO? |
| Provided they have higher level OSHA Training such as OSHA 500 Level. |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR |
| 95. If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project? |
| COR |
| 96. Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC? |
| If the superintendent provides certifications and experience of documentation of performing the QC manager |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR |
| 97. If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full-time for this project? |
| COR |
| 98. Please clarify if a superintendent can be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO as well as QA/QC? |
| Provided they have higher level OSHA Training such as OSHA 500 Level. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 99. The drawings are dated April 28, 2022. Please confirm the issued drawing set is the latest and complete set. |
| Base drawings are dated April 28, 2022. Addendum 1 is dated Oct 14, 2022. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 100. The drawings are dated April 28, 2022. Please confirm the issued drawing set is the latest and complete set. |
| See response to #99 |
| 7/5/23 | |
| A-E |
| 101. Please confirm the current design documents meet current VA TIL guidelines. |
| We believe the current design meets with the TIL as of the date the design started. |
| 7/5/23 |
| CO |
| 102. Factor 3 - Past Performance: If we have a PPQ that is less than 12 months old, can we use it within our proposal? Or will a new PPQ need to be requested? |
| If CPARS is not an option, then a combination of PPQ and Customer References are required. |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR & CO |
| 103. There are 17 alternates listed on the drawing set and 0 listed in the CLIN. Will these alternates be required for this project? If so, please provide an updated CLIN |
| Alternates are required for this project due to budget constraints. Primary goal is to complete all of the construction that the VA has budgeted for. |
| 7/5/23 |
A-E &
COR
104. Will the VA please provide an asbestos report for the project?
Report will be provided with the answers to this RFI – CIH reports for Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint and PCBs are available. Locations for any identified asbestos may be found within the report 7/5/23
A-E &
COR
105. Is there asbestos above the ceilings that will be touched by this project?
Report will be provided with the answers to this RFI – CIH reports for Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint and PCBs are available. Locations for any identified asbestos may be found within the report 7/5/23
A-E &
COR
106. Is there asbestos in the flooring being removed in the generator room?
Report will be provided with the answers to this RFI – CIH reports for Asbestos, Lead-Based Paint and PCBs are available. Locations for any identified asbestos may be found within the report 7/5/23
| A-E |
| 107. Are the rooms in the basement where conduit is being run overhead currently occupied? |
| YES – HOWEVER THEY WILL BE UNOCCUPIED DURING CONSTRUCTION |
| 7/5/23 |
| COR |
| 108. While conduit is being run above ceiling in the basement, how many days does the VA require between phases? |
| This will require planning with our acquisition team to perform office moves and contractor’s conduits installation for each phase. A detailed schedule will need to be provided by the contractor. |
| 7/5/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 109. Does the VA intend to keep the diesel fuel removed from the holding tank? |
| A-E & COR |
| 110. If the VA intends to keep the diesel fuel for reuse, will it be required to be tested or stabilized before being reused? |
| No – See Answer to #109 |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 111. If the VA intends to keep the diesel fuel for reuse, will the contractor be required to provide storage of the fuel? |
| No – See Answer to #109 |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E & COR |
| 112. Will the VA retain possession of the existing generator after it has been removed? |
| A-E |
| 113. What are the requirements for the decommissioning of the existing generator? |
Remove existing generator after temporary generator is installed.
7/6/23
114. Are all buildings within the project area up to date on their certifications?
| Don’t know what you mean by “certifications”? |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 115. Will the contractor be required to recertify systems other than those specifically called out in the plans as a part of the project? |
| A-E |
| 116. Sheet MH102 has no sheet notes. Is this page intended to have sheet notes? |
No notes on MH102.
7/6/23
| A-E |
| 117. Regarding the condensing unit (84-CU-1) that is being relocated at building 84: What are the VA’s requirements for servicing or otherwise decommissioning the unit prior to it being relocated? |
| Refer to the commissioning specifications for requirements. |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR |
| 118. Will rooms A 151A, A149 and A147 remain active during construction? (Labeled as break room, Operatory # 5 and #6 on sheet AD101) |
| Those rooms are Dental procedure room and should remain in operation during construction. |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR |
| 119. What are the active days and hours of rooms A151A, A149 and A147? (Labeled as break room, Operatory # 5 and #6 on sheet AD101) |
| COR |
| 120. How long can room A147 and A149 be taken out of service? |
| If replacing window, need to provide plywood or weatherproof barrier on inside of window and work from outside. This work will need to be done after hours or weekends. |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR |
| 121. Can room A147 and A149 be taken out of service at the same time? |
| See question #120. If contractor can complete both during weeknights and weekends. |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 122. Please provide a spec for the “Insulating Sheathing” shown on sheet A302. |
Use 5/8 exterior wall sheathing, DensGlass or equal 7/6/23
| COR |
| 123. Sheet G002 indicates that a 30 day ATS meter report is to be conducted on the front end of the project ahead of submittals for the generator and ATS. Is the VA accounting for the duration of this testing in the overall project duration? |
| This is part of the bid proposal package for an electrical load analysis. VA accounting not involved. |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 124. The construction sequence shown on sheet G002 indicates specific steps required for each of the main elements. Can any of these major elements overlap or must the contractor follow the exact order as indicated on the sheet? |
| Contractor may propose alternate schedule in accordance with requirements to submit Project Schedule in 01 32 16.15 |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 125. Does the VA understand that current lead times for generators and ATS’s can extend 40+ weeks? |
| COR |
| 126. Will the VA consider an extension of period of performance to allow for the procurement of long lead items? |
| A-E |
| 127. Will fueling of the temporary generator be the responsibility of the contractor? |
| A-E |
| 128. If yes to above, please provide estimated fuel requirements. |
| Contractor to provide info based on unit purchased and project start-up, and test requirements. |
| 7/6/23 |
| COR |
| 129. What will be the duration of the VA approval period for temporary generators/switchgear post installation? |
| COR |
| 130. Will roads allowed to be closed for the duration of construction of the new duct banks or will road plates be required? |
| Roads cannot be closed during normal business hours. Road plates can be used with construction of new duct banks. Plan with COR and VA. |
| 7/6/23 |
| A-E |
| 131. A general note indicates that the GC is to match the existing signs and replace them within the interior remodel area. However, these signs locations or quantities are not shown on the drawing. Can the VA provide an updated schedule indicating a count of these replacement signs? |
| A sign schedule is not available – Contractor shall estimate or conduct count during site visit – VA may provide a count for Bid purposes |
| 7/6/23 |