S02 Solicitation 36C24125R0009.docx

1. SOLICITATION NUMBER

2. TYPE OF SOLICITATION

3. DATE ISSUED

PAGE OF PAGES

4. CONTRACT NUMBER

5. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUEST NUMBER

6. PROJECT NUMBER

7. ISSUED BY

CODE

8. ADDRESS OFFER TO

a. NAME

b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (Include area code) (NO COLLECT CALLS)

10. THE GOVERNMENT REQUIRES PERFORMANCE OF THE WORK DESCRIBED IN THESE DOCUMENTS (Title, identifying number, date) 12a. THE CONTRACTOR MUST FURNISH ANY REQUIRED PERFORMANCE AND PAYMENT BONDS (If "YES," indicate within how many calendar days after award in Item 12B.)

12b. CALENDAR DAYS

13. ADDITIONAL SOLICITATION REQUIREMENTS:

STANDARD FORM 1442 (REV. 8/2014)

STANDARD FORM 1442

Prescribed by GSA-FAR (48 CFR) 52.236-1(d)

SOLICITATION, OFFER,

AND AWARD

(Construction, Alteration, or Repair)

SOLICITATION

SOLICITATION

IMPORTANT - The "offer" section on the reverse must be fully completed by offeror.

9. FOR INFORMATION

CALL:

NOTE: In sealed bid solicitations "offer" and "offeror" mean "bid" and "bidder".

SEALED BID (IFB)

NEGOTIATED (RFP)

11. The Contractor shall begin performance within ____________ calendar days and complete it within calendar days after receiving award, notice to proceed This performance period is mandatory negotiable (See _____________________________).

YES

NO

a.

Sealed offers in original and ___________________copies to perform the work required are due at the place specified in Item 8 by _____________ (hour) local time _____________________ (date) If this is a sealed bid solicitation, offers must be publicly opened at that time Sealed envelopes containing offers shall be marked to show the offeror's name and address, the solicitation number, the date and time offers are due.

b.

An offer guarantee is, is not required.

c.

All offers are subject to the (1) work requirements, and (2) other provisions and clauses incorporated in the solicitation in full text or by reference.

d.

Offers providing less than _______________________ calendar days for Government acceptance after the date offers are due will not be considered and will be rejected.

1 of 36C24125R0009 X 12-12-2024 689-25-113 36C241 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 1 VA Connecticut Healthcare System 950 Campbell Avenue West Haven CT 06516 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 1 CHS West Haven Campus 950 Campbell Avenue West Haven CT 06516 Jodi Ruggiero judith.ruggiero@va.gov The Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven Campus, has a design build requirement for a Firm Fixed Price contract.

The prime contractor shall provide A/E professional services and construction services for ARF Chiller Replacement. The The scope of this project is for the planning through final design and construction to replace the Animal Research Facility chiller system located on the 9th floor of Building 2. These improvements are required to correct the negative environmental conditions being caused by failure of the existing chiller system This project is to be contracted as a design-build service and shall include architectural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, construction and all such systems and components necessary to achieve the project goals presented in the attached scope of work. The project includes design, demolition, and construction of a new chiller system for approximately 13,000 square feet. The new chiller system will utilize the existing rooftop dunnage, plumbing, and existing connections. All work shall be accomplished in accordance with the terms and conditions incorporated in the contract, including all attachments.

The NAICS code for this procurement is 238220 and the size standard is $19 Million. This project is 100% set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

This solicitation is issued in accordance with FAR 36.3, Two-Phase Design-Build Selection Procedures. Best value accordance with FAR Subpart 36.3, Two-Phase Design-Build Selection Procedures. Best value will be achieved through a Best value will be negotiated acquisition in accordance with best value procedures authorized by FAR 15.101.

A bid bond is required, and the bid guarantee amount shall be at least 20 percent of the bid price but shall not exceed $3,000,000

Refer to solicitation instructions for Phase 1 Cutoff date for submission and Request for Information (RFIs), or questions, if any. No site visit will be conducted during Phase 1 of this solicitation. At this time, we are only seeking information/offerors for Phase 1. Details regarding Phase 2 are for informational purposes only in the event an offeror is included within Phase 2. Offerors are not to submit any Phase 2 proposals until requested to do so.

All Contractors are responsible for monitoring and downloading any amendments from Contract Opportunities on https://sam.gov/content/opportunities

The cut-off date and time for receipt of questions for Phase I is 01/03/2025, at 4:00 PM (EST).

The statement in block 13a. on page 1 of the SF1442 does not apply to this RFP. Offerors shall submit their Phase 1 proposals via email to Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov by 4:00PM EST on 01/13/2025. Only electronic proposals will be accepted.

X X 52.211-10 X 1 electronic 4:00 pm 01-13-2025 X

14. NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR

15. TELEPHONE NUMBER

16. REMITTANCE ADDRESS

CODE

FACILITY CODE

17. The offeror agrees to perform the work required at the prices specified below in strict accordance with the terms of the solicitation, if this offer is accepted by the Government in writing within __________ calendar days after the date offers are due.

AMOUNTS

18. The offeror agrees to furnish any required performance and payment bonds.

19. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS

AMENDMENT

NUMBER

DATE.

20a. NAME AND TITLE OF PERSON AUTHORIZED TO SIGN OFFER 20b. SIGNATURE 20c. OFFER DATE

21. ITEMS ACCEPTED:

22. AMOUNT

23. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

24. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN

ITEM

25. OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION PURSUANT TO

10 U.S.C. 2304(c)( 41 U.S.C. 3304(a) ( 5)555)

26. ADMINISTERED BY

27. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

PHONE:

FAX:

28. NEGOTIATED AGREEMENT

29. AWARD

Your Contractor agrees offer on this solicitation is hereby accepted as to the items listed This to furnish and deliver all items or perform all work requirements identified award consummates the contract, which consists of (a) the Government on this form and any continuation sheets for the consideration stated in solicitation and your offer, and (b) this contract award. No further cont-this contract The rights and obligations of the parties to this contract ractual document is necessary.

shall be governed by (a) this contract award, (b) the solicitation, and (c) the clauses, representations, certifications, and specifications incorporated by reference in or attached to this contract.

30a. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTOR OR PERSON AUTHORIZED 31a. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER

TO SIGN

30b. SIGNATURE 30c. DATE 31b. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 31c. AWARD DATE

BY

OFFER

AWARD

STANDARD FORM 1442 (REV. 8/2014) BACK

(Include ZIP Code) (Include area code) (Include only if different than Item 14.)

(Insert any number equal to or greater than the minimum requirement stated in Item 13 d.

Failure to insert any number means the offeror accepts the minimum in Item 13d.)

(The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the solicitation -- give number and date of each) (Type or print) (4 copies unless otherwise specified) (Type or print) (Type or print) (Contractor is required to sign this document and return _______ copies to issuing office.)

(Contractor is not required to sign this document.)

(Must be fully completed by offeror) (To be completed by Government)

CONTRACTING OFFICER WILL COMPLETE ITEM 28 OR 29 AS APPLICABLE

See Price Schedule X 36C241 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 1 VA Connecticut Healthcare West Haven 950 Campbell Avenue West Haven, CT 06516 All invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Request http://fsc/va/gov/einvoice.asp Judith Ruggiero

Table of Contents

A.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Project 689-25-113 - Design Build ARF Chiller Replacement Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238220 - Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: Z1DB - Maintenance of Laboratories and Clinics

Page 1 of Page 1 of

INFORMATION REGARDING BIDDING MATERIAL, BID GUARANTEE AND BONDS

1.1 INFORMATION REGAURDING BIDDING MATERIAL, BID GUARANTEE AND BONDS

a. A Bid Guarantee, SF 24, is required. The amount shall be adequate to protect the Government from loss should the successful bidder fail to execute further contractual documents and bonds as required. The bid guarantee amount shall be at least 20 percent of the bid price but shall not exceed $3 million. Failure to furnish the required bid guarantee in the proper form and amount, by the time set for opening of bids, may require rejection of the bid in all cases except those listed in FAR 28.101-4. Copies of the SF 24 may be obtained from http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/type/TOP.

b. The bidder to whom award is made will be required to furnish two bonds, a Payment Bond, SF 25A, and a Performance Bond, SF 25, each in the penal sum of 100 percent of the original contract price. Copies of SFs 25 and 25A may be obtained from http://www.gsa.gov/portal/forms/type/TOP.

INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS AND OTHER STATEMENTS TO BIDDERS/OFFERORS

2.1 PROCEDURES FOR SUBMITTAL OF OFFERS AND PROPOSAL EVALUATION CRITERIA

1. OVERVIEW

1.1 This requirement will be solicited in accordance with FAR Subpart 36.3, Two-Phase Design-Build Selection Procedures. A firm fixed price award will be made to the highest technically rated qualified contractor at a fair and reasonable price whose offer conforms to the solicitation, and which results in the best value to the Government, all factors considered. The Government reserves the right to accept other than the lowest priced offer or to reject all offers. Best value will be achieved through a negotiated acquisition in accordance with FAR Subpart 15.101-1, Tradeoff Process. Setting aside for an SDVOSB firm complies with regulations to meet our goals and fulfill the VA’s mission to meet socioeconomic goals.

1.2 The Government intends to make award to a responsible Offeror submitting a conforming proposal without discussions; however, the Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if deemed to be in the best interest of the Government.

2. INSTRUCTIONS

2.1 Offerors submitting proposals for this project shall limit submissions to data essential for evaluation of proposals, so that a minimum of time and money will have been expended in preparing information required herein. However, to be effectively and equitably evaluated, the proposals must include information sufficiently detailed to clearly describe the offeror's technical expertise, and past performance capabilities to successfully complete the project. Innovative, creative, or cost-saving proposals that meet or exceed the requirements shall be clearly noted and justified in the proposal.

2.2 Offerors must comply with the detailed instructions for the format and content of the proposal; proposals that do not comply with the detailed instructions for the format and content of the proposal may be considered unacceptable and may render the offeror ineligible for award.

2.2.1 These instructions prescribe the format of proposals and describe the approach for the development and presentation of the proposed data. The proposal shall include all the information requested in the specific instructions. Failure to include all information requested may adversely affect the evaluation. A proposal that merely reiterates or promises to accomplish the requirements of the RFP shall be considered unacceptable. Offerors are reminded of their responsibility to submit a proposal that is orderly and sufficiently documented that will enable the Government to easily understand and perform a thorough and fair evaluation.

2.2.2 Offerors are cautioned to submit enough information to enable the evaluation board to fully ascertain each offeror’s capability to perform all the requirements contemplated by this solicitation. All commitments made in the proposal may become a part of the resultant contract. The data submitted with each proposal shall be complete and concise, but not overly elaborate. Excessive reliance on promotional brochures is discouraged.

2.2.3 Indexing: Each Volume shall contain a “Table of Contents” for that volume. The “Table of Contents” shall identify major areas, paragraphs and subparagraphs by number and title as well as by page number and volume locations. Tab indexing shall be used to identify Factors as appropriate. Table of Contents and Tab indexes do not count toward page limitation.

2.3 These instructions prescribe the format of proposals and describe the approach for the development and presentation of the proposal data. They are designed to ensure the submission of necessary information to provide for the understanding and comprehensive evaluation of proposals. Carefully review this section prior to commencing proposal preparation. For proposals to receive full consideration for award, offerors shall ensure that the information furnished in support of the proposal is factual, accurate, and complete.

2.4 All solicitation amendments must be acknowledged in accordance FAR Clause 52.215-1(b). Acknowledgement of All Amendments: The Offeror shall acknowledge all amendments by either 1.) Completing block 19 of the SF 1442, or 2.) Returning the signed amendment form(s) with the submission.

2.5 In accordance with FAR Subpart 36.3, Two-Phase Design-Build Selection Procedures, this procurement will be conducted in two (2) separate phases.

2.5.1 Phase I Proposal. Proposals will be evaluated in Phase I to determine which offerors will be requested to submit proposals for Phase 2. One contract will be awarded using competitive negotiation. Phase I of this procurement will result in a narrowing of offerors to a maximum of five (5) firms in accordance with FAR 36.303-1 based on the technical evaluation factors as identified in paragraph 3. Offerors shall provide 1 (one) electronic copy of Phase I proposal to Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov containing all information required for all evaluation criteria, excluding any reference to price. All pages must be typed; packages that are handwritten will not be evaluated. Phase I proposal due date: Monday, January 13, 2025 at 4:00pm EST.

2.5.2 Phase II Proposal. Phase II of the solicitation requires submission of technical and price proposals, which will be evaluated separately, in accordance with FAR part 15. The Phase 1 successful offerors will receive a Phase II Request for Proposal (RFP). The Phase 1 factors are not to be resubmitted in Phase 2. Phase II evaluation technical factors (Factors 4 – 7) are listed in paragraph (3) below. The Government reserves the right to negotiate with any or all offerors; to award the contract to other than the offeror submitting the lowest total price; and to award to the offeror submitting the highest technically rated or the lowest total price proposal; and to award to the offeror submitting the proposal determined to be the most advantageous best value to the Government.

2.5.2.1 Volume 1 Technical Proposal. Offerors shall provide 1 (one) electronic copy of Volume 1 to the Contracting Officer containing all information required for all evaluation criteria, excluding any reference to price. All pages must be typed; packages that are handwritten will not be evaluated.

2.5.2.2 Volume 2 Price Proposal. Offerors shall provide one (1) electronic copy of Volume 2 included in the proposal package as an original only. Offerors shall complete in its entirety the “Offeror” portion of the Standard Form (SF) 1442. An official having the authority to contractually bind your company must sign the SF 1442 in accordance with FAR 4.102. One copy of the SF 1442 is required to have an original signature. Valid electronic signatures are acceptable. Offerors shall submit separate prices for all items (if Applicable) indicated in Block 17 of the SF 1442 and shall complete the pricing schedule in the solicitation.

2.6 Proposal phases are due by the date and time set for the receipt of proposals shown in Block 13 of the SF 1442 and e-mailed to Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov. The due date for receipt of Past Performance Questionnaires from your references is the same as the date and time set for the receipt of proposals shown in Block 13 of the SF 1442.

NOTE: Offers and pricing shall be valid for a period from proposal submission date to 120 calendar days after.

In the event the proposal file size exceeds 20MB, break it down into multiple files and submit via email. Zip Files are not allowed.

3. PROPOSAL EVALUATION AND SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

3.1. While the Government will strive for maximum objectivity, the evaluation process, by its nature, is subjective and therefore, professional judgment is implicit throughout the entire evaluation process.

3.1.1 Offeror may, at the discretion of the Government, be asked to provide information for clarification purposes regarding their proposals. Requests for such clarification information do not constitute discussions.

3.1.2 Phase 2 submission of technical and price proposals shall be evaluated separately in accordance with part 15 and submitted separately, volume one (technical) and volume two (price).

3.1.3 The offeror shall be held responsible for the validity of all information supplied in his/her proposal. Should subsequent investigation disclose that the fact and conditions were not as stated, the proposal may be rejected.

3.2 PHASE 1 PROPOSAL

3.2.1 General Instructions: The Technical proposal shall be prepared in accordance with the instructions and format given in this factor. Failure to provide a technical proposal in accordance with this factor and the solicitation may render an offeror’s proposal incomplete and ineligible for award.

3.2.2 Evaluation Factors: The evaluation factors included are 1) Experience, 2) Past Performance and 3) Technical Approach. All Phase 1 technical evaluation factors are of equal importance.

(1) Experience: The Offeror shall submit a minimum of one (1) and a maximum of three (3) completed Design Build construction projects (as the prime vendor) of similar in scope to this project within the last five (5) years from the date of this solicitation. The Offeror shall demonstrate their experience on relevant Design/Build and projects that are similar in size, scope, and complexity to this RFP. In describing project design and construction experience, provide at a minimum the following information:

a) Project title, location, and brief description including the building use (medical facility, major building renovation, etc.)

b) Contract Type (Example: Design Build)

c) Provide the project owner name and telephone number of the owner’s contact person

d) Provide a brief description of the scope of work

e) Provide project prime contractor and major subcontractors

f) Provide project statistics including start and completion dates (original vs actual) and project cost (original vs actual). If original vs actual completion dates and project cost differ, provide explanation as to why they differ.

*** If the above information (at a minimum) is not submitted for each completed construction project provided, the evaluation for Factor 1, Experience could be negatively affected***

(2) Past Performance: Proposal shall provide current and relevant information regarding an offeror’s actions under previously awarded contracts referenced under Factor 1, Experience. If a completed past performance evaluation is available in Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS), it shall be submitted with the proposal for each project referenced in Factor 1, Experience. If there is not a completed past performance evaluation available in CPARS, then the offeror shall submit a Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ) for each project referenced in Factor 1, Experience. A PPQ template is attached to this solicitation. The offeror shall notify their client that the PPQ must be submitted via email to the Contracting Officer, Jodi Ruggiero at Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov. If the offeror is unable to obtain a completed PPQ from a client for a project(s) before proposal closing date, the offeror shall complete and submit with the proposal the first page of the PPQ, which will provide contract and client information for the respective project(s). The Government may make reasonable attempts to contact the client noted for that project(s) to obtain the PPQ information. However, offerors shall follow-up with clients/references to help ensure timely submittal of questionnaires. The Government may also obtain past performance information from other sources available to the Government to include, but not limited to, Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) or other databases, interviews with Program Managers, and other Contracting Officers. [FAR 15.305(a)(2)]

(3) Technical Approach: The Offeror shall provide a brief narrative describing the Offeror’s method to manage the project to achieve design and construction objectives as described in the RFP. Include at minimum all aspects covered in the scope of work. The Offeror’s narrative shall provide enough detail to demonstrate that the scope and complexity of the project requirements are understood and will be successfully completed. The following shall be included in the narrative:

a) Design Approach: Describe the techniques and methods for an efficient, effective design that will be used for this project.

b) Construction Approach: Describe the techniques and methods that will be used for this construction project to include coordination with the design package, projected timelines, and coordination of work.

3.3 PHASE 2 TECHNICAL PROPOSALS

Offerors are not to submit any of this information in Phase 1. This shall only be provided upon request of the Contracting Officer.

3.3.1 The technical evaluation factors included are 4) Technical Solution, 5) Schedule and 6) Key Personnel. All Phase 2 technical evaluation factors are of equal importance. Phase II evaluation factors other than cost or price, when combined, are significantly more important than cost or price.

(4) Technical Solution: Based on the solicitation documents, site visit, and the offeror’s Phase 1 technical approach, provide a detailed narrative (page limitation: six pages) describing the offeror’s technical solution to the project to achieve design and construction objectives as described in the scope of work. If the page limit is exceeded, excess pages will not be read or considered. The Offeror’s narratives shall include, at minimum, the following technical areas:

a) Areas of concern and describe how to minimize risk in conjunction with the identified areas of concern.

b) Indicate that the design-build team understands the complexities of the project and address how their approach offers constructability advantages in an operational hospital setting.

c) Expedient project delivery.

d) Innovation included in the design.

e) Compliance with Design requirements.

f) Minimizing impact to the Medical Center.

g) Maintaining utility operation.

h) Operating system integration with existing JCI controls.

(5) Project Schedule: The firm shall demonstrate their understanding of the Project Schedule for this Design-Build project by submitting a draft project schedule for design and construction that adheres to the requirements outlined in the attached Statement of Work.

(6) Key Personnel: The Offeror shall provide the following:

a) Provide an organizational chart of the design build team.

b) Provide brief resumes of proposed team members who will specifically serve as the Overall Project Manager, Design Project Manager, Construction Project Manager, Project Site Superintendent, Architect, A/E Field Representative, Designers of Record (Mechanical, Electrical, and Fire Protection Engineer). In addition, provide resumes of other relevant team members or frequent subcontractor such as: Architect, Civil, Structural Engineers, Cost Estimator, and team members who will perform technical tasks under this contract including their record of working together.

c) The Designers of Record shall perform and direct the design within their respective discipline and shall sign and seal the drawings. All Designers of Record must be professionally registered in their discipline.

d) Each resume shall include name of company, name of individual, relevant listing of experience, qualifications, specialized training, education, experience, and a minimum of three (3) specific completed projects that best illustrate the individual team members experience relevant to this contract scope,

e) The Offeror shall provide a list of intended consultants and subcontractors (it is recognized that not all subcontractors may be identified at the time of proposal submission). Identify the consultant or subcontractor’s role in project, their qualifications as well as the approximate percentage of the project work they will perform.

3.4 PHASE 2 PRICE INFORMATION SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Offerors are not to submit any of this information in Phase 1. This should only be provided once requested.

3.4.1 Offerors shall provide all price information necessary to provide a meaningful basis for Government's analysis and evaluation of price for the project. The Government is not and does not intend to request certified pricing data. Offerors may be required, during the evaluation process to provide sufficient price information that will enable the Government to perform an accurate evaluation.

3.4.2 Offerors shall complete certification of VAAR 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting—Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction and submit with their price proposal.

3.4.3 The Government will evaluate the total price identified in the Price Schedule for Line ITEM 0001.

3.4.4 Prices will be evaluated for reasonableness utilizing one or more of the price analysis techniques set forth in FAR 15.305.

3.4.5 Prompt payment discounts will not be considered in the evaluation of offers.

3.4.6 If no Offerors are within the available funding limitation, the VA reserves the right to enter into discussions with those Offerors who are determined to be within the competitive range, if a competitive range is determined in the interest of the VA, otherwise discussions will be with all Offerors.

3.4.7 If following the initial Non-Price and Price evaluations and/or receipt of Final Proposal Revisions, an offeror’s total evaluated price still exceeds the VA's funding limitation, the VA will no longer consider the offeror to be eligible for award.

3.4.8 Please note that all references to Resident Engineer or RE in the Drawings and Specifications shall be replaced with Contracting Officer’s Representative or COR.

3.5 SOURCE SELECTION TECHNICAL EVALUATION RATING SYSTEM PHASE 1 & 2

Offerors will be evaluated according to the following ratings. These ratings focus on the strengths, weaknesses, significant weaknesses, and deficiencies of the Offeror’s Proposal.

Selection Definitions:

Recency is defined as performance occurring within five (5) years of the date of this notice, except that ongoing projects must have begun no less than one (1) year prior to the issuance of this notice.

Relevancy is defined as performance of work on projects that are similar in scope to the type of project anticipated under the resultant contract.

Strength: A proposal area in which there is a high level of confidence of meeting the requirements and to some extent clearly exceeds what is necessary to meet the requirement. (This could be associated with a process, technical approach, materials, etc.)

Weakness: Is a flaw in the proposal that increases the risk of unsuccessful contract performance.

Significant Weakness: Is a flaw that substantially increases the risk of unsuccessful contract performance.

Deficiency: Is a material failure of a proposal to meet a government requirement or a combination of significant weaknesses in a proposal that increases the risk of unsuccessful contract performance to an unacceptable level.

*These definitions are to be applied for both the Phase 1 and Phase 2 evaluations, and the Phase 2 ratings for Factors 4, 5, and 6.

The following rating system will be used to determine the Phase 1 ratings for Factor 2 Past Performance.

4. SPECIFICATIONS AND DRAWINGS

Drawings, specifications, and contract forms are included and/or attached as part of this Request for Proposal. The VA will not provide printed copies of drawings or specifications. It is the responsibility of the offeror to obtain the required documents in a time and manner sufficient to respond to this solicitation by the specified due date.

5. WAGE DETERMINATION

Wages for all contractors and subcontractors must comply with Wage Rate Requirement (formerly Davis Bacon Act). The current determination is General Decision CT20240023, mod 9, 08/23/2024. Be advised the determination that is current at the time of the contract award is the determination that will apply for the project. It is the responsibility of the contractor prior to the due date of the proposal to regularly check the wage decision as to include the most current prevailing wage in their proposal. Current determinations are always available at: https://sam.gov/content/wage-determinations.

6. AVAILABILITY OF SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS

All solicitation related documents will be published to Contract Opportunities at https://sam.gov/content/opportunities.

7. INVITATION FOR PROPOSAL

This solicitation is being issued as a Request for Proposal (RFP) in accordance with FAR Part 15.101-1.

8. SDVOSB SET-ASIDE

This procurement is 100% set-aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business concerns. Proposals received from other than Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business concerns will not be considered. All Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses must be listed as “verified” by the SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert). Offerors must be verified at TIME OF SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL AND TIME OF AWARD. Failure to be BOTH visible and verified at the time of submission will result in the offeror’s proposal ineligible for award.

9. JOINT VENTURE AND MENTOR PROTÉGÉ INFORMATION

Instructions to Offerors (Joint Ventures and Mentor Protégé Offerors Only). This paragraph applies to offerors under the JV-Mentor Protégé Program Fundamental requirements:

A Joint Venture (JV) may be considered an eligible offeror if the JV offeror meets the specific requirements at VAAR 819.7003(c)(1) through (4) the at the time of submission of the offer and throughout the period of performance.

The JV itself must be “verified” by the SBA Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) at time of submission of the offer. The JV itself and the members of the JV must be registered in SAM.gov at time of submission of the offer.

The SBA Small Business Mentor-Protégé Program applies to this solicitation and contract. The Department of Veterans Affairs MP Program is not active. VAAR 852.219-71 and VAAR 852.219-72 are not applicable to this solicitation. (87 FR 13606, Mar 9, 2022).

A large business (LB) member of the JV must be a participant of the SBA Mentor-Protégé Program (SBA MPP) at the time of submission of the offer. 13 CFR 125.9. (https://www.sba.gov/mpp) Specific Instructions for JV MPP offerors:

Offerors will identify in their offer the UEI of the JV and the UEI of all of the members of the JV.

Offerors will identify in their offer the UEI of both the protégé and mentor.

The signatures and authority of the members of the JV to bind the JV will conform with FAR 4.102(d).

The Bid Bond shall be submitted for this solicitation and in the name of the Joint Venture as Principal.

The performance and payment bonds and insurance certificates shall be submitted within ten (10) days after award notice in the name of the Joint Venture as Principal.

Threshold (JV MPP): Assessment of JV status and MP status is a threshold assessment at time of receipt of the offer. Any JV SBA MPP offeror whose registration is not active in SAM, VetBiz, and with SBA MPP at the time of proposal submission will be excluded from the process and their proposals will not be evaluated.

10. REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

Questions of a technical nature must be provided in writing and shall be submitted by the prospective offerors to Jodi Ruggiero. Questions shall be submitted only via e-mail to: Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov. The subject line MUST read: 689-25-113, ARF Chiller Replacement Design Build – Questions. Oral questions of a technical nature are not acceptable due to the possibility of misunderstanding or misinterpretation. THE CUT-OFF DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF QUESTIONS FOR PHASE I: Friday, 01/03/2025 at 4:00 PM (EST).

11. AMENDMENTS

Amendments to this solicitation will be posted at https://sam.gov/content/opportunities. Paper copies of the amendments will NOT be individually mailed. No other notification of amendments will be provided. Potential offerors are advised that they are responsible for obtaining and acknowledging any amendments to the solicitation. Failure to acknowledge an amendment may result in your offer being considered non-compliant.

12. SITE VISIT

A formal site visit will be scheduled for this project and will take place during Phase 2 of the solicitation process. This will be the only opportunity for potential offerors to visit the site. See FAR Clause 52.236-27 of this solicitation for further information for date/time/location and instructions. All potential offerors, subcontractors and suppliers are strongly encouraged to attend this site visit.

13. PREPARATION OF PROPOSALS

The Government will not pay for any costs incurred in preparation and submission of proposals.

14. PROPOSAL PACKAGE CONTENTS

Standard Form (SF) 1442 Solicitation, Offer and Award:

15. VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING

The Offeror shall complete the certification at VAAR 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting—Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction and submit with their price proposal.

16. SUBMISSION OF FORMS

Offerors will include Past Performance Questionnaire Form identified and attached in this solicitation if finalized CPARS ratings are not available.

2.2 52.201-1 ACQUISITION 360: VOLUNTARY SURVEY (SEP 2023)

(a) All actual and potential offerors are encouraged to provide feedback on the preaward and debriefing processes, as applicable. Feedback may be provided to agencies up to 45 days after award. The feedback is anonymous, unless the participant self-identifies in the survey. Actual and potential offerors can participate in the survey by selecting the following link: https:// www.acquisition.gov/360.

(b) The Contracting Officer will not review the information provided until after contract award and will not consider it in the award decision. The survey is voluntary and does not convey any protections, rights, or grounds for protest. It creates a way for actual and potential offerors to provide the Government constructive feedback about the preaward and debriefing processes, as applicable, used for a specific acquisition.

(End of Clause)

2.3 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

The Government contemplates award of a Firm-Fixed-Price contract resulting from this solicitation.

(End of Provision)

2.4 52.222-5 CONSTRUCTION WAGE RATE REQUIREMENTS—SECONDARY SITE OF THE WORK (MAY 2014) (a)(1) The offeror shall notify the Government if the offeror intends to perform work at any secondary site of the work, as defined in paragraph (a)(1)(ii) of the FAR clause at 52.222-6, Construction Wage Rate Requirements, of this solicitation.

(2) If the offeror is unsure if a planned work site satisfies the criteria for a secondary site of the work, the offeror shall request a determination from the Contracting Officer.

(b)(1) If the wage determination provided by the Government for work at the primary site of the work is not applicable to the secondary site of the work, the offeror shall request a wage determination from the Contracting Officer.

(2) The due date for receipt of offers will not be extended as a result of an offeror's request for a wage determination for a secondary site of the work.

(End of Provision)

2.5 52.225-10 NOTICE OF BUY AMERICAN REQUIREMENT—CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS (MAY 2014)

(a) Definitions. "Commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) item," "construction material," "domestic construction material," and "foreign construction material," as used in this provision, are defined in the clause of this solicitation entitled "Buy American—Construction Materials" (Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause 52.225-9).

(b) Requests for determinations of inapplicability. An offeror requesting a determination regarding the inapplicability of the Buy American statute should submit the request to the Contracting Officer in time to allow a determination before submission of offers. The offeror shall include the information and applicable supporting data required by paragraphs (c) and (d) of the clause at FAR 52.225-9 in the request. If an offeror has not requested a determination regarding the inapplicability of the Buy American statute before submitting its offer, or has not received a response to a previous request, the offeror shall include the information and supporting data in the offer.

(c) Evaluation of offers.

(1) The Government will evaluate an offer requesting exception to the requirements of the Buy American statute, based on claimed unreasonable cost of domestic construction material, by adding to the offered price the appropriate percentage of the cost of such foreign construction material, as specified in paragraph (b)(3)(i) of the clause at FAR 52.225-9.

(2) If evaluation results in a tie between an offeror that requested the substitution of foreign construction material based on unreasonable cost and an offeror that did not request an exception, the Contracting Officer will award to the offeror that did not request an exception based on unreasonable cost.

(d) Alternate offers.

(1) When an offer includes foreign solicitation in paragraph (b)(2) of the clause at FAR 52.225-9, the offeror also may submit an alternate offer based on use of equivalent domestic construction material.

(2) If an alternate offer is submitted, the offeror shall submit a separate Standard Form 1442 for the alternate offer, and a separate price comparison table prepared in accordance with paragraphs (c) and (d) of the clause at FAR 52.225-9 for the offer that is based on the use of any foreign construction material for which the Government has not yet determined an exception applies.

(3) If the Government determines that a particular exception requested in accordance with paragraph (c) of the clause at FAR 52.225-9 does not apply, the Government will evaluate only those offers based on use of the equivalent domestic construction material, and the offeror shall be required to furnish such domestic construction material. An offer based on use of the foreign construction material for which an exception was requested—

(i) Will be rejected as nonresponsive if this acquisition is conducted by sealed bidding; or

(ii) May be accepted if revised during negotiations.

(End of Provision)

2.6 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

Protests, as defined in section 33.101 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, that are filed directly with an agency, and copies of any protests that are filed with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), shall be served on the Contracting Officer (addressed as follows) by obtaining written and dated acknowledgment of receipt from:

Judith Ruggiero, Contracting Office Judith.Ruggiero@va.gov Hand-Carried Address:

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 1 Attn: Jodi Ruggiero, Contracting Officer 623 Atwells Avenue, 3rd Floor Providence RI 02909 Mailing Address:

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 1 Attn: Jodi Ruggiero, Contracting Officer 623 Atwells Avenue, 3rd Floor Providence RI 02909

(b) The copy of any protest shall be received in the office designated above within one day of filing a protest with the GAO.

(End of Provision)

2.7 52.236-27 SITE VISIT (CONSTRUCTION) (FEB 1995) ALTERNATE I (FEB 1995)

(a) The clauses at 52.236-2, Differing Site Conditions, and 52.236-3, Site Investigations and Conditions Affecting the Work, will be included in any contract awarded as a result of this solicitation. Accordingly, offerors or quoters are urged and expected to inspect the site where the work will be performed.

(b) An organized site visit has been scheduled for— Phase 1: no site visit, Phase 2: date is TBD

(c) Participants will meet at—

TBD

(End of Provision)

2.8 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/

(End of Provision)

2.9 VAAR 852.209-70 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST (OCT 2020)

(a) It is in the best interest of the Government to avoid situations which might create an organizational conflict of interest or where the Offeror’s performance of work under the contract may provide the Contractor with an unfair competitive advantage. The term ‘‘organizational conflict of interest’’ means that because of other activities or relationships with other persons, a person is unable to render impartial assistance or advice to the Government, or the person’s objectivity in performing the contract work is or might be otherwise impaired, or the person has an unfair competitive advantage.

(b) The Offeror shall provide a statement with its offer which describes, in a concise manner, all relevant facts concerning any past, present, or currently planned interest (financial, contractual, organizational, or otherwise) or actual or potential organizational conflicts of interest relating to the services to be provided under this solicitation.