SOW CONSTRUCT BONHAM ENERGY CENTER BONHAM revised 11 14 24.docx

CONSTRUCT BONHAM ENERGY CENTER

DESIGN PROJECT NO: 549A4-23-600

SRMVC VA MEDICAL CENTER

1201 E 9th St., Bonham, TX Date: November 14, 2024

PROJECT OVERVIEW

OVERVIEW

The intent of this project is to construct a new central plant to replace the original Building #11 Boiler Plant (1978) and joined Chiller Plant (1987). This includes new parking lots, underground utilities, emergency power, new package boilers, ground fuel storage, chillers, cooling towers, reverse osmosis system, all associated controls, equipment, tanks, pumps, etc. A/E will investigate appropriate energy conservation and energy cost savings technologies to incorporate suitable to the climate of Bonham Texas.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is soliciting the expertise of an A/E firm to conduct a study and provide a complete construction ready design for a new energy center (boiler/chiller plant) located at the Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center (SRMVC), Bonham, Texas.

This contract requires the completion of a Predesign: “Geotechnical, Environmental Impact Study, etc., Design, Construction Drawings and Specifications, narratives, detailed construction cost estimate, Critical path method schedule and Construction Phasing Plan, construction submittal review, Construction Period Services, As-Builts, and other related work as described herein.

CONTRACT TYPE

This award is a firm fixed price contract.

SCOPE OF PROJECT

This project has been established to provide a design for a new fully functional energy center that will supply the facility’s steam generation and chilled water systems. This includes all utilities (both above ground and underground), emergency power system, new package boilers (dual fuel), chillers, cooling towers, high-pressure steam distribution, pumped condensate return, water polishing/softener systems, reverse osmosis system, and all associated controls, equipment, tanks, pumps, Fire alarm and Siemens Apogee HVAC system controls, etc.

Design will include a detailed “Construction Phasing Plan” that ensures each phase does not negatively affect station operations.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

Design contract duration is (385) three hundred and eighty-five calendar days from date of award. The A/E must provide construction period services that must commence with the award of the Construction Contract(s) and will terminate with the acceptance of the facility by the VA. This requirement is enumerated in Section 6 of this document.

The A/E must provide post construction services for a period of one (1) calendar year. This requirement is enumerated in Section 7 of this document.

DESIGN WITHIN FUNDING LIMITATIONS:

The design must be accomplished by the A/E design services so as to permit the award of a construction contract, using standard Federal Acquisition Regulation procedures for the construction of the facilities designed at a price that does not exceed this project’s estimated total construction contract price of $45,000,000.

The contractor must design within funding limitations and coordinate cost control measures, and value engineering with the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) to conserve the project budget while not sacrificing performance, quality, and value. Cost control alternatives must be explored at all design review stages.

FEE PROPOSAL

The AE must design for a total construction budget of $45,000,000. The AE must review FAR 52.236-22 “Design within Funding Limitations”.

The A/E must provide a fee proposal for the required services using the format applicable to the Request for Proposal document issued by the Government Contracting Officer, VA Form 10-6298.

The A/E must provide an outline of the actions that the firm will take during the design process along with its associated fee.

The A/E must also describe how they will structure a team, the approach to manage and accomplish the work, and list professional experience of team members to include a Project Management Plan.

Designs must stay within the statutory limitation of 10% of the indicated construction budget, with the inclusion of deductive bid alternate items where necessary, to assure full utilization of the project’s provided budget. Bid item decisions must be made during review meetings.

Should the A/E at any time believe that the construction cost limitation (CCL) is inaccurate for the scope of work described in this document, the A/E is to immediately notify the COR and CO.

Once the design contract has been awarded, any request for an increase in design fees must be supported by an increase in the level of design effort.

SCOPE OF WORK

GENERAL REQUIRMENTS

The A/E must review the program and all material furnished by the VA as a part of this contract to ascertain the full requirements of the project and must provide all professional services to accomplish these requirements. The A/E must be responsible for the professional quality and technical accuracy of the professional services being provided under this contract.

The Architectural/Engineering (A/E) must provide all engineering design, commissioning, and construction period services to meet the project objectives and requirements and to provide the required outcome in terms of overall quality, timeliness, and documentation consisting of but not limited to: full set of construction drawings, design narrative/analysis, construction statement of work, detailed construction cost estimates, calculations, sample boards, percent-loaded construction schedule for the construction of a new energy center at the Bonham VA Medical Center; AE will utilize Waco VA construction documents as reference for design. AE will provide a schedule that identifies the critical path, phasing plan and edited specifications in accordance with professional standard practices and VA criteria as well as any other documents necessary for procurement purposes. Include 3D Revit Modeling in addition to CAD.

The proposed designs must at a minimum include the following requirements: Complete architectural, structural, electrical, civil, mechanical, plumbing, communication, and fire protection system, and Physical Security Design and Resilience Manual (PSDRM) for design/drawings.

A/E must design temporary/permanent hook ups for Boiler, Chiller and Cooling tower for emergency use should those systems go down, hook ups to remain for the capability to install future temporary equipment in the future.

A/E must perform all other work related to provide a complete and usable project based on the scoped objectives outlined in this document.

The AE must provide complete construction documents through as-built drawings, scheduling, phasing, construction cost estimating and construction period services. It is anticipated that an architect will be required as well as a mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, plumbing engineer, and fire protection engineer. Other disciplines may be necessary.

In design of the project the AE must use VA specifications located at [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/index.asp]. Material submittals must be reviewed and approved in conjunction with the COR.

The completed design must satisfy all requirements assuring compliance with all applicable local, state and VA/federal codes and guidelines.

The Contractor must develop and provide a detailed construction cost estimate of the design. A cost estimate must be submitted with each construction document submittal.

A/E licensure in the State of Texas applies to this project.

All deliverables must meet or exceed the requirements of this document.

KEY PERSONNEL

A/E must use Engineering professionals with proven experience with energy center designs greater than $20,000,000 dollars on VA facilities. Credentials of these engineering professional designers’ will be verified by VA staff.

The design of architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, or other engineering features of the work must be accomplished by architects or engineers registered in a State or possession of the United States, or in Puerto Rico or in the District of Columbia.

The A/E must employ the following professional personnel to perform the services required under this contract. Such listing below must also provide the individual's specific job title.

The following individuals have been designated as key personnel under this contract:

Principal-in-Charge – To be designated at award.

Overall Project Manager – To be designated at award.

Architect Design – To be designated at award.

Civil Design – To be designated at award.

Structural Design – To be designated at award.

Mechanical Design – To be designated at award.

Electrical Design – To be designated at award.

Plumbing Design – To be completed at award.

Fire Protection Engineer (Texas Licensed) - To be designated at award.

Physical Security Specialist - To be designated at award.

Quality Assurance/Quality (QA/QC) Control Manager – To be designated at award.

Estimating – To be designated at award.

Specifications – To be designated at award.

Interior Design – To be designated at award.

Other – To be designated at award.

PHYSICAL SECURITY: The A/E must retain the services of a certified physical security specialist. The specialists must be involved throughout the life of the design beginning with the concept phase and the qualifications must be submitted to the COR for review and approval prior to the concept/basis of design phase. The specialists must meet all requirements listed in the Physical Security Design Manual for Mission Critical Facilities located on the TIL [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/PhysicalSecurity/dmPhySec.pdf] The A/E must ensure that all aspects of the applicable VA Physical Security Design Manual (either Life-Safety Protected or Mission Critical Facilities; both will be applicable depending on the area the work is taking place) are incorporated into the design and must prepare a written report acknowledging compliance as required by the VAMC.

Fire Protection Engineer (FPE): The A/E must retain the services of a certified fire protection engineer. The FPE must be involved throughout the life of the design beginning with the concept phase and the qualifications must be submitted to the COR for review and approval prior to the concept/basis of design phase. The FPE must all requirements located on the TIL [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/ae/FPEngr.pdf].

TELECOMMUNICATIONS DESIGN: In accordance with “Telecommunications and Special Telecommunications Systems Design Manual, paragraph 1.2 (d), Telecommunications design must be performed and stamped by a BICSI Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) and Electronic Healthcare Maintenance System (EHRM) CAT 6 for all projects. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmTelecomm.pdf] The Contractor agrees that such personnel must not be removed, diverted, or replaced from the contract without prior written approval from the Contracting Officer. Any personnel the Vendor offers as substitutes must have abilities and qualifications equal to or better than the Key Personnel that is being replaced. All Requests for substitutions in personnel must be submitted through the VA COR to the Contracting Officer at least 30 calendar days prior to making any change in Key Personnel. The request must be in writing, providing an explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitution and contain a complete resume for the proposed substitute. The Contracting Officer must evaluate such requests and notify the contractor in writing of approval or disapproval within 10 calendar days of receipt of the request.

SCOPE OF DESIGN WORK

The project design scope must include, but is not limited to, the following items required for the VA to obtain a complete and fully functional design:

Site Design Documents setting forth in detail the site construction requirements including existing grades; rough and finishing grading lawns and planting and landscaping; location of on-site utility systems, off-site utility works, fire protection system, physical security, drainage system, property lines, set back lines, easements, building orientation, site access, landforms, environmental determinate; and historic and archeological preservation.

Architectural Design Documents setting forth in detail the architectural construction requirements including complete floor and roof plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules, material and color selection, discipline coordination and fire safety systems and controls.

Structural Design Documents setting forth in detail the structural construction requirements including all structural plans; elevations; sections; details Structural Design Documents setting forth in detail the structural construction requirements; schedules; and calculations sizing all columns, beams, slabs and coordinate the work with all other design disciplines, especially the mechanical and architectural disciplines.

Mechanical Design Documents setting forth in detail the mechanical construction requirements including all mechanical plans, elevations, sections, details, and schedules for heating, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing and sanitary engineering.

Electrical Design Documents setting forth in detail the electrical construction requirements including all electrical plans, elevations, sections, details, diagrams, and schedules showing transformers, vaults, electrical and telephone closets, power distribution systems, auxiliary power systems, switchgear, generator, lighting fixtures, switching power outlets, and signal system.

Fire Protection Design Documents setting forth in detail the fire protection requirements.

Physical Security Design Documents setting forth in detail the physical security requirements.

Telecommunication Design Documents setting forth in detail the telecommunication requirements and include EHRM considerations.

Space Control report of the total gross area(s) of the facility(ies).

Cost Estimate(s). setting forth in detail quantities of materials, labor, profit, overhead, insurance, taxes, etc. for each separate building within the project, as well as all site work.

Specifications for all sections of the work utilizing the VA Master Specification system setting forth in detail all requirements for the construction fully coordinated with the drawings and other Construction Documents.

Energy Impact Studies.

Phasing Plans for Construction including making recommendations concerning construction contract arrangements and scheduling that will be advantageous to the VA in terms of cost and timing.

Presentations and Review Submissions.

The A/E must perform all necessary investigative work in order to adequately design the project. This includes all necessary testing and surveys.

The A/E must arrange for and oversee the performance of topographic surveys, geotechnical surveys, test borings, test pits, soil tests, subsurface exploration, and other such investigations as the A/E determines are required for the proper design of the project The A/E must perform a thorough analysis of the current and projected steam and chilled water demand and distribution piping.

The A/E must provide a complete and fully functional design for the construction of the new energy center facility. All underground utilities, fuel systems, sitework, access roads, parking lots, security fences, and gates, and new distribution lines to the existing systems must be included.

Incorporation of the new building into the existing PACS security system with access control as required by the VA Physical Security guidelines.

Design must meet or exceed all applicable VA Physical Security requirements.

Design multiple deductive bid options into the construction documents equal to a minimum of 20% of the total construction cost. The base design must be fully functional with or without the options.

Construct a full BIM model in Autodesk Revit.

Develop a phasing plan.

Perform construction period services.

Develop a complete full building commissioning plan per the VA Whole Building Commissioning Process Manual as applicable to this building is required and to assist the Commissioning Agent.

The A/E scope of work contained in this document constitutes a basic outline of work and in no way outlines all details for the design of this project.

Innovation: The requirements indicated in this document are not intended to limit innovative service delivery of the A/E. The government will consider variations from the Statement of Work if the proposed change is within the scope, schedule, and budget limitations meets the objectives for the project, and results in an improved outcome.

SITE VISITS AND EXISTING CONDITIONS

Accuracy of Planning Information: The A/E must make site visits to the project site to determine existing conditions and to investigate the information shown on the Government Furnished drawings, record (as built) drawings, and any other planning documents which are part of this contract. All government furnished information is the best available, but the Government does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

The A/E investigation of field conditions must be performed in a competent professional manner in accordance with the Architectural Design Manual PG 18-10.

Discrepancies in Planning Information: The A/E must promptly report to the Contracting Officer Representative, in writing, any discrepancy between this contract and the planning information provided by the Government. The A/E must make no adjustments to his/her work due to the discrepancy before the COR has reviewed the matter and forwarded his/her determination to the A/E. The A/E's failure to report any such discrepancy or to wait for the Contracting Officer's determination must be at his/her risk and expense.

Total number of minimum required site visits will be eighteen (18): one (1) Pre-bid, one (1) initial Design Charrette, twelve (12) design development and four (4) construction administration site visits.

PRE-BID CONFERENCE

The A/E is required to attend the pre-bid conference, which will be scheduled by the VAMC, contracting and procurement section, prior to the bid opening date for the purpose of answering questions and clarifying the project specifications and drawings with prospective bidders. The project site will also be visited to verify existing field conditions and dimensions.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION MEETING

The A/E is required to attend the pre-construction meeting for the project which will be scheduled by the VAMC, Bonham, Texas for the purpose of answering questions and clarifying the bid documents, etc., with the contractor. The A/E is to provide five (5) complete sets of contract drawings and specifications to the construction contractor at this meeting. The A/E must take written minutes of the pre-construction meeting and provide the VA Medical Center with them within five (5) calendar days after the meeting.

UTILITIES

Analyze existing utility capacities supporting the new work. Utilities to be analyzed include, but are not limited to water, sewer, electrical power, steam, chilled water, condensate return, communications systems, physical security, and fire protection. Provide a written report of findings including recommendations for any identified deficiencies.

CODES AND STANDARDS

All design work must, as a minimum, be in accordance with all applicable codes, (i.e. NFPA, JCAHO, NEC, UPC, UMC, ASME, ASHRAE, IBC, EPA, OSHA), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) publications, Master Construction Specifications, Construction Standards, Design Guides, Design Alerts, and Design Standards as is further referenced under Section 3. – STANDARDS.

VA construction must be designed in compliance with applicable standards and codes described in Architectural Design Manual PG 18-10 In the design of new building and alteration work under this contract, consider all requirements (other than procedural requirements) of zoning laws, and laws relating to landscaping, open space, minimum distance of a building from the property line, maximum height of a building, historic preservation, and esthetic qualities of a building, and similar laws, of the State and local political division which would apply to the building if it were not to be constructed or altered by the U.S. Government.

Where conflicts exist between VA adopted codes and standards and the documents on the TIL, the A/E must bring this to the attention of the VA. The resolution of the conflict must be made by the authority having jurisdiction for VA to ensure consistency department wide.

ENERGY MANAGEMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY

The A/E must incorporate green building and sustainable design practices and elements into project designs to the greatest extent practicable and as per the VA Sustainable Design & Energy Reduction Manual. Project designs must meet the guiding principles and all energy, water, and environmental requirements established by EPACT, EISA, EOs 13514 and 13423, and VA Directive 0055. All new construction and major renovations (including major mechanical equipment replacements) will require energy modeling (annual building or zone simulation based on local weather data), and analysis during planning to achieve the energy budgets required in the above laws. The typical design analysis will include a Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) on three different alternatives. For example: An A/E may choose to analyze a project by analyzing and modeling the replacement of original equipment, a radiant system, or a heat pump system when designing the replacement of an air handling system. The following are the required A/E deliverables to support the sustainable design effort:

Background Research Analysis Current Report of the Dynamic Cost Model Report of Federal Mandates Kick-Off Meeting & background Research Analysis Results Commissioning Plan Optimize Energy Performance Project Energy Models Define Distributed Generation Systems and Renewable Energy Goals Report on Use of Energy Star Products Plans for Solar Hot Water Use Metering Protect and Conserve Water Report on Reducing Indoor Water Use Report on Reducing Outdoor Water Use Water for the Reduction of Energy Water Efficient Products Reduce Environmental Impact of Materials Report on amount of recycled and Bio-based content used Report on Construction Waste Recycling Providing the design requirements for data recovery for energy usage and equipment consumption.

Providing calendar drawings and specifications for solicitation and construction CD.

See Section 3. – STANDARDS in this document for design standards for sustainability.

Contact local utility providers (i.e. KPUB) to determine if financial incentives are available for energy efficiency. Design the project to comply with local utility provider requirements and maximize the dollar amount of the incentives. Provide all relevant information to local utility providers in order to qualify the project for these financial incentives and coordinate the process.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

The A/E must assist the VA with completion of a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) assessment as required by the Bonham VA Medical Center. If the NEPA assessment results in potential environmental impacts, the A/E must be responsible for completing any auxiliary documentation required per PG-18-17 NEPA Interim Guidance for Projects located on the TIL [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/etc/NEPAGuidance.pdf]. Additional requirements may include, but are not limited to, Environmental Assessment, Environmental Impact Statement, and Record of Decision. The NEPA analysis and concluding documentation must be completed by the Final Bid Documents submittal – AE will submit and have reviewed by the 35% design submittal.

ELECTRONIC DATA: FTP SITE (FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL)

A/E must provide and manage a shared FTP site for design documents and other electronic data. See standards below.

COMMISSIONING PLAN

The Commissioning Plan must be written to assist the Commissioning Agent hired by the VA. The Commissioning agent must establish acceptance criteria for the project that are clear and measurable and provide a clearly defined methodology for establishing substantial completion and final acceptance of the new Energy Center. A/E must work cooperatively with Commissioning Agent so that a full range of checks and tests can be carried out to determine if all components, subsystems, systems, and interfaces between systems function in accordance with the design intent, as identified in the contract documents. In this context, “function” includes all modes of operations, and all specified responses to abnormal emergency conditions.

The A/E must collaborate with the VA’s designated commissioning authority throughout the design phase and through the construction phase. The A/E is solely responsible for the management and professional design, including all associated labor, equipment, materials, mailing costs, and inspection, to meet the requirements of the contract.

PHASING PLAN

The A/E must assist the Contracting Officer in coordinating the development of a CPM (Critical Path Method) network for the construction of the project. The CPM network must provide a phasing schedule which will promote a proper and efficient organization and sequence of construction.

The A/E Phasing plan must be developed as to ensure minimal outages to overall steam system and disruptions to the medical center operations. The A/E must ensure that a functional boiler system with back-up (n+1) is maintained for the Bonham VAMC during construction. A minimum of 2 weeks’ notice must be given for all planned outages, along with a plan to maintain critical Medical Center areas and infrastructure served by steam.

The phasing plan must also show the switch over, decommission of the existing boiler plant and commissioning of new control systems and safety alarms. Phases must be stand alone and have no dependencies.

QUALITY ASSURANCE/QUALITY CONTROL (QA/QC)

In an effort to reduce construction change orders due to design errors and omissions, the design team must develop and execute a QA/QC plan that demonstrates the project plans and specifications have gone through a rigorous, thorough review and coordination effort.

Within 14 calendar days after receipt of Notice to Proceed (NTP), the A/E must submit a detailed QA/QC plan describing each task that will be taken during development of the various design phases of the project along with the name of Design team member responsible for QA/QC for Contracting Officer (CO) approval. Each task must have an appropriate space where a senior member of the design team can initial and date when the action has been completed.

The QA/QC plan must also cover the construction period services of the project and accompany the 100% final design document submittal package.

The A/E must submit the completed QA/QC Plan along with the 100% construction bid documents to ensure that a thorough review and coordination have been completed.

STANDARDS

A/E must adhere to all standards, VA program guides, design manuals, and master specifications in preparing the design for this project. Failure to adhere to these standards and documents will result in redesign at no additional cost to the Government. If any questions arise contact the VA-COR. Submittals will be reviewed by the VA staff; however, review of the submittal does not relieve the A/E from adhering to these standards. Should the A/E determine that a deviation from such standards and specifications is necessary or beneficial to the Government, the A/E must promptly submit a request in writing to the Contracting Officer for permission to make the deviation. The request must include an explanation of the specific reasons for the desired change and benefits expected.

Note: Exceptions to these standards are only to be made with written direction from the Contracting Officer or Contracting Officer’s Representative.

Where conflicts exist between VA adopted codes and standards and the documents on the TIL, the A/E must bring this to the attention of the VA. The resolution of the conflict must be made by the authority having jurisdiction for VA to ensure consistency department wide.

The VA Technical Information Library (TIL) available at [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/index.asp] is managed by the VA Office of Construction and Facility Management and is the master repository for all VA Numbered Standards for Construction to include design and construction specifications, procedures, standard details, BIM/CAD standards, equipment guides, space planning and design guides. The documents of the TIL must be the minimum design criteria for all VA projects performed in the construction of new facilities and the modernization, alteration, addition, or improvement of its real property. All design documents must be developed in accordance with the VA TIL, including (but not limited to) the following listed Department of Veterans Affairs References:

VA Design Manuals (Program Guide PG-18-10) Design Manuals are available at the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual.asp] Adhere to all manuals that are appropriate to the project. This includes the Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual.

VA Design Guides (Program Guide PG-18-12) Design Guides are available at the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dGuide.asp] Adhere to all guides that are appropriate to the project.

Design and Construction Procedures (PG-18-3) Established VA policies defining the minimum level of excellence in the design, construction, and alteration of VA facilities and are available at the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/cPro.asp] Use all topics that are appropriate to the project.

Master Construction Specifications (PG-18-1) This reference defines a standardized method for the A/E to assure that the contractors provide equipment and systems that meet the design intent in terms of performance, quality, regulatory compliance, and cost. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/spec.asp] Standard Details and CAD Standards (PG-18-4) The VA has adopted the U.S. National CAD Standard (NCS) Version 4. A link to the NCS standards is found on the TIL web site. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/sDetail.asp] VA BIM & CAD Standards (PG-18-13) [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/projReq.asp] Equipment Guide List (PG-18-5) Contains room content items to be used for planning and developing equipment requirements for VA facilities. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/equip.asp] Barrier Free Design Guide (PG-18-13) This supplement to the Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS) tailors some of the requirements to better meet the barrier-free needs of the VA in its health care facilities. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/etc/dsBarrFree.pdf] Room Finishes, Door, and Hardware Schedules (PG-18-14) standards for the interior finishes, doors, and hardware for new or renovated VA facilities. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/room/RoomFinishes.pdf] A/E Submissions and Review (PG-18-15) These references provide a staged list of tasks in various design categories to define the A/E scope and assure thorough and timely completion of the final design package and bid documents. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/aeDesSubReq.asp] Environmental Compliance Manual (PG-18-17) National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations, environmental compliance procedures, statements of work for consultant services, and examples of compliance documents. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/environmental/index.asp] VA Cultural Resource Management Procedures (H-7545) Site Design Manual [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmSite.pdf] Steam, Heating Hot Water, and Outside Distribution Systems design manual Vol. 1 & Vol. 3 [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmSm01.pdf] [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmSm03.pdf] Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual All projects in VA’s Major Construction Program that are in design must incorporate the requirements of this manual and are required to be in compliance with the latest edition of this manual. Design manual is available at the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual.asp#PSR].

NFPA and Fire Protection Design Manual Comply with VA Fire Protection Design Manual including but not limited to NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, NFPA Healthcare Facilities Code, and NFPA 90A Standard for Installation AC and Venting Systems. The VA Fire Protection Design Manual is available at [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmFire.pdf].

Technical Summaries (HVAC) Technical Summaries cover HVAC criteria for specific applications and are available at the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmHVAC.pdf] Use all summaries that are appropriate to the project.

Space Planning Criteria for VA Facilities (PG-18-9) Available at the website of VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/space.asp] Use all areas that are appropriate to the project.

VA A/E Quality Alerts: A/E Quality Alerts are available at the website of the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/alert.asp] This is a series of the most common design errors made by Architects and Engineers on VA projects.

VA Design Review Checklists: Checklists must cover each stage of the submittal process and are available at VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/aeDesSubReq.asp] Ignore requirements for BIM on this web site.

Seismic Design Requirements (H-18-8) The Bonham VAMC is located in a Seismic Zone 0. Seismic Design Requirements are available at the website of VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/seismic.asp] OIT Infrastructure Standard for Telecommunications Spaces v3.1 (July 01, 2021) The latest version of Infrastructure Standard for Telecommunications Spaces is located on VA’s Technical Information Library (TIL) [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dguide/OIT-InfrastrucStdTelecomSpaces.pdf]. The design for this project at The Bonham VA Medical Center, TX must meet the requirements of the Infrastructure Standard for Telecommunications Spaces. The Infrastructure Standard for Telecommunications Spaces (The Standards) serves as the master reference document of criteria for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facility Information Technology (IT) support infrastructure. It defines the technical requirements necessary to maintain optimum reliability and efficiency within VA facilities and computing centers. IT Support Infrastructure is defined as all passive telecommunications and information technology equipment and supporting physical space and equipment. Users must ensure their use of this technology/standard is consistent with VA policies and standards, including, but not limited to, VA Handbooks 6102 and 6500; VA Directives 6004, 6513, and 6517; and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards, including Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS). Users must ensure sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. Prior to use of this technology, users should check with their supervisor, Information Security Officer (ISO), Facility Chief Information Officer (CIO), or local Office of Information and Technology (OI&T) representative to ensure that all actions are consistent with current VA policies and procedures prior to implementation.

Sustainable Design & Energy Reduction A/E must adhere to the following:

Sustainable Design & Energy Reduction Manual This manual includes sustainability goals, LEED strategies, methods, budget considerations, case studies, and checklists and is available at the website of VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/sustain.asp] Texas State Energy Code VA Energy Guidelines VA Master Spec section 01 81 00, SUSTAINABLE DESIGN REQUIREMENTS.

Although written for the A/E, the A/E must also read through this spec section and design accordingly. The VA Master Spec is available at the website of VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library (TIL.)

Whole Building Commissioning Process Manual.

Accessibility Standards Use both of the following:

Architectural Barriers Act and Accessibility Standard (ABAAS) Available at the website of the US Access Board [https://www.access-board.gov/aba/] VA Barrier Free Design Guild (PG 18-13) Supplement to the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS,) available at the website of the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/accessibility.asp] Equipment Guides (PG-18-5) Equipment Guides are available for developing equipment requirements for various uses (Ambulatory Care, Eye Clinic, Pulmonary Medicine, etc.) Equipment Guides are available at VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/TIL/equip.asp] Signage This scope of work might include exterior signage and certain interior signage. Refer to The Signage Design Guide which is available at the website of VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/dManual/dmSignage.pdf] (Note: Interior designer will provide guidance for station signage.)

COST ESTIMATING STANDARDS

Bonham VA Standards for Cost Estimates: Separate estimates are to be submitted for new construction, alteration work and site work with a combined summary estimate. Cost Estimates are to follow the same organized systems/subsystems as the divisions and sections listed in the VA Master Specifications and formatted similar to R.S. Mean’s publications showing as a minimum: quantities, unit prices and totals. Labor amounts can either be separate or included in the unit prices. Estimate amounts are to be based on the date of the Cost Estimate.

The Manual for Preparation of Cost Estimates is available at VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management. [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/ae/CostEstimatingManual.pdf]. The manual includes, as examples, Estimate Worksheet and Cost Summary Sheet. Using this manual is not required.

ESTIMATE OF THE CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

Determine the amount of time required to complete the construction. Use a Gantt chart or Critical Path Method (CPM) to show the estimated schedule.

Phasing: If the project requires phasing, then incorporate phasing periods into the Estimate. Phasing must minimize disruption of to the medical center.

The Estimate of the Construction Schedule should correspond with the Estimate of Construction Cost to facilitate comparison.

PROJECT MANUAL

VA Master Construction Specifications:

As a template for Specifications, use the VA Master Construction Specifications (PG-18-1) which is available at the website of the VA Office of Construction & Facilities Management, Technical Information Library. [http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/spec.asp] Special specification sections The VA-COR will provide the following spec sections to the A/E in MS Word format:

01 00 00, General Requirements 01 33 23, Shop Drawings Product Data and Samples (includes requirements for electronic submittals) Section 23 09 23, Direct Digital Control System for HVAC NOTE: Edit all spec sections, including the above, as needed.

Cover Page The following information must be shown on the Cover Page. Information may be rearranged, and other information added if space allows.

Project Title. Include the building number(s) and floor number(s) if applicable.

VA Project Number Bonham VA Medical Center Department of Veterans Affairs Submittal Date fully spelled out (i.e., February 16, 2022) Status of Project (i.e., 65% SUBMITTAL, BID DOCUMENTS) Volume number (if project manual has more than one volume) Binding Edge On the binding edge of the final document manual provide Project Name, VA Project Number and Year in large text. Acceptable methods include adhesive-backed labels on a plastic comb binding or reusable 3-ring binders. Orient the text so that text reads in a downward direction when the manual is on a shelf.

Font Font: Calibri or Arial; or submit a similar font to the VA-COR for approval.

Size: For body text, use 12 point if using Calibri or 11 point if using Arial. Larger text can be used for headings.

Headers and Footers For each page of the project manual provide a header and footer with the following information:

VA Project Number preceded by “VAMC:”

Name of the spec section Number of the spec section Page number: Page number can be integrated with the section number (i.e., 08 71 00 - 3) or it can be separate (i.e., Page 3).

The arrangement is optional as long as the spec section number appears on the lower right corner of the page. Other items that may appear on each page but are not required are the project name and the A/E project number preceded by the firm ID (i.e., XYZ: 01203).

DRAFTING AND DRAWING STANDARDS

All drawings must adhere to VA project software requirements for Building Information Modeling (BIM) available at [https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/projReq.asp] BIM software must be Revit 2022 or the latest version available to Bonham VAMC. The A/E must provide a computer 3D model and prepare various 3D renderings to present to VA throughout the design phase to adequately represent architectural, mechanical/electrical/plumbing (MEP), site conditions and other items in the design to aide with facility visualization and contractor coordination.

The project BIM model minimum requirements must be developed to include the systems described below as they would be built, the processes of installing them and to reflect record drawing conditions (possibly incorporating into the Bonham VA Medical Center Master Record Drawing – pending facility expertise). The deliverable model at the SD, DD and CD design phases must be developed to include as many of the systems described below (but not limited to) as are necessary and appropriate at that design phase.

& Material Data

· Security System Information (Access Control, Security Cameras, Panic Alarms, Overhead Paging)

· Life Safety Information (Fire Extinguishers, Wall Ratings, Door Ratings, Fire Protection/Alarms)

· Other Engineering Data as Required

VA standards on Building Information Modeling (BIM) VA BIM Standard Manual V2.2 VA Drawing Deliverable Requirements (DDR) v1.0 Submittals must be submitted in both electronic format and hard copy formats as listed below. Portable Document Format (.pdf), and Autodesk Revit Project (.rvt) files are acceptable. Submittals must additionally be compliant with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. 794 d); information on the requirements for accessible media can be found at [http://www.section508.gov].

CD-ROMs Discs must be labeled with the following:

Project Title. Include the building number(s) and floor number(s) if applicable.

VA Project Number Content (i.e., Drawings and Project Manual) Status of Project (i.e., Bid Documents, Conformed Documents or As-Builts) Date: The date on the CD is to match the official date of the documents.

Discs are to be printer-labeled.

BIM Software Use Autodesk Revit 2022 for design and provide files in .rvt format to the VA. Test the exporting process to ensure that the exported .rvt files will be usable by the VA and complies with All VA drafting standards.

Significant deviations from these standards will be corrected by the A/E at no additional cost to the Government.

EQUIPMENT PLAN

Provide an Equipment and Furniture Plan.

Review the Equipment / Furniture Plan with the VA at the Design Development design review meeting and at all subsequent meetings. Include the Equipment and Furniture Plan in the final construction set.

Show and label all equipment and furniture.

Include plumbing fixtures, chairs, tables, desks, carts, cabinets, casework, shelving, privacy curtains, patient beds, procedure chairs, code carts, refrigerators, etc.

Include equipment and furniture that are to be:

Provided by the A/E Furnished by the VA and installed by the contractor Provided by VA.

All equipment and furniture must be to scale (at least in terms of overall dimensions and as needed for coordination purposes.) The VA’s Environmental Management Services office, through the VA-COR, can provide dimensions for furniture that is to be provided by VA.

Supplement the plan information with interior elevations as needed.

The Equipment and Furniture Plan does not need to contain technical information. The technical info can be conveyed elsewhere. (i.e., A flushing-rim sink may be called out simply as a “flushing-rim sink” on the Equipment and Furniture Plan, with more specific information given on the Plumbing Plan and Plumbing Fixture Schedule).

Designs for construction must produce a “complete and usable” facility or improvement when constructed. VA policy (VHA Office of Capital Assets Management, Engineering and Support memo Updated Construction Guidance and Expectations dated Sep 12, 2016) requires the A/E to certify that their design (including all bid alternates/bid deducts) is independent of any future construction project. In addition, the A/E must certify that it has produced a design that does not include furniture and equipment that will be procured separately.

FIRE RATED ASSEMBLIES AND SMOKE BARRIERS

Show all fire-rated wall assemblies and smoke barriers on architectural, HVAC, plumbing and electrical plans as well as the code review plan.

Drawing Sheet Dates and Revisions The date for a submittal is to be consistent throughout the entire set.

The date on the Title Block is to correspond to the submittal date and change with each submittal.

The date for the 100% Submittal (Bid Documents) is to be the final date change for the Title Block. After this time when a drawing is re-issued, the REV section on the Title Block is to be used.

When a drawing is re-issued the next highest revision number is to be used for all drawings, even though most sheets will skip some revision numbers.

ELECTRONIC DATA AND FTP SITE (FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL)

Provide and manage an FTP site for design documents (PDFs, DWGs, DOCs, XLSs, etc.) and other electronic data.

Access must be through usernames and passwords. The FTP site must be on the A/E’s server, not on a third-party server. (Due to security restrictions, the VA cannot access files on a third-party FTP server.)

Once posted, the files should remain posted through the duration of the project. (i.e., Do not delete schematic design files after the schematic design phase is over.)

All files must be free of corrupted or un-usable data.

DESIGN SUBMISSION, REVIEW, AND COMPLETION SCHEDULE

15% SUBMISSION: (Conceptual Design) Deadline - 45 calendar days after NTP The design team will provide a group presentation of the overall design scope, including the construction phasing and the relative advantages and disadvantages of the competing design concepts.

The design team must demonstrate that it has fully investigated the design issues, has determined the key design variables, and can show appropriate solutions. The presentation must indicate a comprehensive grasp of space requirements, functional adjacencies, environmental impact, building envelop and orientation, energy efficiency, sustainability, seismic corrections (where necessary) and physical security requirements. The presentation must include required surveys such as Asbestos, Lead, Site Borings, Geo-tech, underground utilities, and any other services required to facilitate a complete and well-coordinated design.

VA’s Review of the 15% submission and decision on final scope: Deadline - 30 calendar days after receipt.

Design review meeting: Deadline 5 calendar days after the VA submits 15% design review comments.

35% SUBMITTAL (Schematic Design 1) Deadline - 45 calendar days after receipt of final scope Required documentation:

Conceptual site plan (when required) showing building location, parking arrangement, major site features.

Conceptual floor plans showing major components, general structural grid, major Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing components.

Code review Gross area of each floor and total gross area for building At least one exterior elevation showing building materials, fenestration, roof top equipment, etc.

Conceptual building sections to illustrate building shape and special features.

Written narrative on mechanical systems.

Preliminary design calculations for:

Structural

HVAC

Plumbing Electrical Outline specifications.

Preliminary Estimate of Construction Costs (“Lump sums” are acceptable at this phase) Provide the following to the VA-COR:

One (1) full size sets of Drawings (on paper) One (1) half size sets of Drawings (on paper) One (1) copy of the narrative on mechanical systems (on disk) One (1) copy each of the calculations (on disk) One (1) copy of the Outline Specifications (on disk) One (1) copy of the Cost Estimate (on disk) Two (2) copies (complete sets) of all submission documents on compact disk(s). Updated drawings must be submitted in each of the following file formats: CAD version 2020, Revit version 2022, and Adobe PDF. Specifications and all other supporting documents must be in both Microsoft Word and Adobe PDF.

Provide the following to the CO: (this may be e-mailed) Copy of the transmittal that was sent to the VA-COR VA Review of the 35% Submittal: 30 calendar days after receipt.

Design review meeting: Deadline…