INVITATION FOR BID (IFB) No. 020-020
CONSTRUCTION OF THE LIFECYCLE OVERHAUL AND UPGRADE (LOU) FACILITY
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
AS OF JULY 28, 2020
Below are questions VRE received as of July 28, 2020 at 5:00 P.M. EST, with responses. Whenever possible, questions are presented as originally asked. Otherwise, the questions or inquiries are presented to capture the main thrust or idea.
Question #1: Are CAD files available for the Civil portion of the work?
Response #1: VRE elects to not provide CAD files for bidding purposes. CAD files may be provided to the successful Bidder for use during the work.
Question #2: We note railroad protective insurance is required. Insurance carriers typically require the number of trains (broken out by freight vs passenger) per day. Please provide.
Response #2: No freight trains operate on the tracks within the VRE yard facility. VRE operates eight (8) northbound trains out of the yard which return as eight (8) southbound trains back into the yard. During the daytime hours between morning and afternoon service train movements are infrequent and occur only on Track 1.
Question #3: If VRE does not provide flagging services or cancels track access, does this constitute a Compensable Delay?
Response #3: The Contractor shall work in close coordination with the VRE local Employee-in- Charge. For purposes of bidding, the Contractor shall assume the work hours provided in the Special Provisions. If, for some unexpected reason, flagging protection is not provided on a day that was scheduled with the Employee-in-Charge, then yes Compensable Delay may be considered.
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Question #4: Regarding Section V, General Provisions, #43 Taxes, do permanent materials furnished by Contractor for this Project constitute being "purchased directly by VRE" and are thus exempt from State sales & use tax?
Response #4: No. Materials furnished by the Contractor for this project are not exempt from state sales and use tax.
Question #5: Specification 01 45 00 1.07.A.1 states "where services are indicated as Contractor's responsibility, engage a qualified testing agency…" Please confirm that VRE will hire the 3rd party special inspections and testing agent and that this cost is not to be paid by Contractor.
Response #5: To clarify, VRE has employed the services of a Construction Management Consultant who provides subconsultant Special Inspections services. The Contractor is responsible for all testing that is not considered Special Inspections and shall provide those services utilizing a qualified testing agency as part of the work.
Question #6: Please confirm that Spotsylvania County is the Authority Having Jurisdiction for all work on this Project. Is Contractor required to pay Trade Permit fees to the AHJ?
Response #6: Given that the project is wholly within Railroad Right-of-Way, Spotsylvania County may have limited jurisdiction, but is the jurisdiction issuing permits. To VRE’s knowledge, Spotsylvania County does not require Trade Permit Fees.
Question #7: Please confirm that per 01 45 00 1.09 D that the QCM may have no other assigned duties
Response #7: As prescribed by the anticipated value of the work, the Quality Control Manager is a full-time position and must be dedicated to the Contractor’s Quality Control and Quality Assurance compliance. VRE envisions this individual will closely coordinate required QC submittals and all testing that is required.
Question #8: Please confirm that per 01 35 23 1.05 that the Safety and Security Manager may have no other assigned duties
Response #8: As prescribed by the anticipated value of the work, the Safety and Security Manager is a full-time position and must be dedicated to the Contractor’s safety compliance. Based on the nature of this position and how VRE manages safety and security, this position may (and should) be responsible for the Contractor’s security measures as well. It is expected that the Safety and Security Manager will maintain direct communications with the local Employee-in- Charge and the Contractor’s Superintendent.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #9: Anticipated Work Hours: How many times and for how long should Contractor expect to not have access to the Work due to train movements per day?
Response #9: All work must be performed during the prescribed work hours. The work will be performed employing the Operating Rules governing work within yard limits and trains may pass through the work zone as permitted by the local Employee-in-Charge. The Contractor shall plan to ‘clear-up’ labor and equipment for the safe passage of every train. Note: the work hours provided begin after the normal departure time of the last northbound train out of the yard and end prior to the normal arrival time of the first southbound train back into the yard. One exception to such limits is Train 301, which normally arrives in the yard at approximately 3 p.m. Therefore, most of the construction activities can be performed without disruption due to train movements.
Question #10: In Phase 5, please clarify if the existing track 4 can be re-used after the building's East foundation wall is completed and if you plan to transfer this risk to the bidders. Please note that the bidders have no way of being able to verify prior to bid if the existing track is acceptable for reuse.
Response #10: The track in question is in serviceable condition today and is inspected on a bi- weekly basis. The condition of the track shall be photo-documented prior to construction. The Contractor’s attention is called to Section 31 20 00, 3.3D “Track Monitoring”. The Contractor shall employ reasonable measures to protect the track structure (rail, ties, and OTM) during construction of the adjacent proposed east foundations. Existing Track 4 can be put back into service after the foundation is complete and backfill is complete to bottom of slab. Once foundation construction and backfill is complete, the track will be inspected for damages. If required, the Contractor shall repair damages caused by construction prior to placing the track back into service.
Question #11: Does the recommended phasing provided by VRE guarantee the Consist requirements will be met? In other words, if we follow your phasing will VRE be able to make up their Consist? Without this answer the bidders will be unable to determine how much track may be taken out of service at any one time.
Response #11: VRE has investigated the proposed construction in comparison to routine daily operations and has good reason to believe the “Suggested Sequence of Construction” will permit the Contractor to satisfy the conditions of daily operations while completing the work. Given various contractor means and methods, VRE cannot guarantee the suggested sequence will ensure success. It is the obligation of the Contractor to closely coordinate daily construction operations with local VRE personnel to help ensure compliance and ultimately successful completion of the work.
Question #12: What duration should Contractor assume for review and approval time by the AHJ for building permits? If the AHJ does not issue permits within that time, does that constitute a compensable delay? Page 3 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #12: VRE and our Consultant have taken measures to submit related materials to the County. The portion that remains for full building permit approval is design / details for the Pre- Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) to be prepared and submitted by the Contractor and for review and approval by the County. Delegated design and related submittals for the Building Permit may be prepared and delivered any time after award of the contract and prior to Notice- to-Proceed for mobilization. Review(s) by the County may occur during other work by the Contractor prior to building construction. A typical (non-pandemic) review period would be approximately 4-weeks but may be 12 weeks or more. VRE cannot guarantee timelines for County activities and review cycles depend on the accuracy and completeness of Contractor submittals. Therefore, actions by the County and the Contractor for approval of the Building Permit may not constitute a compensable delay.
Question #13: Is Contractor responsible for paying fees related to the CSXT Land License Agreement?
Response #13: No, this agreement is between VRE and CSXT and all fees have been paid. The Contractor shall comply with the conditions of the Agreements and must provide the signed Contractor Acceptance Rider along with the necessary certificate of insurance.
Question #14: What is your construction budget?
Response #14: VRE’s current approved budget for this project is publicly available in the Fiscal Year 2021 Annual Budget. Note: budget information may also include costs for related items such as construction management services, engineering services, and flagging protection services.
Question #15: Section VII.03.A/B of the IFB requires the Contractor to purchase two (2) separate Commercial General Liability (CGL) policies. It is not practical for the Contractor to have multiple CGL policies in place on the same project, and doing so would potentially create coverage issues due to 'other insurance' provisions. Please confirm it is acceptable for the Contractor to satisfy the additional insured requirements with a single CGL policy.
Response #15: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #16: Section 34 11 00-3 & 34 11 00-4 reference 3.04 TIES (F. Reuse of Cross Ties). A. Are we permitted to furnish or reuse relay ties for the new construction of Tracks 9 & 10 in accordance with the above parameters?
B. Do these same parameters for the use or reuse of relay Crossties apply to the reconstruction of Tracks 0, 1, 2 and 3?
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #16A: New ties are required for all new track construction as defined on plans including Tracks 0, 1, 2, 9 and 10.
Response #16B: New ties are required for all new track construction and wherever ties need to be replaced for track shift / realigning. For bidding purposes, the Contractor should allow for tie replacement of 2 out of every 5 ties in areas of track shifts to account for damaged or deteriorated ties. Question #17: Section 34 11 00-9 reference 3.15 TRACK SHIFTING.
A. In this above section you indicate that we are to build a new Roadbed with Subballast and Ballast for the track shifting. Later, in Section 34 11 13-2 reference 3.01 you say to “prepare new track bed with flat, level, clean ballast bed before shifting. This later specification would seem to be correct as most of the realignment is very minor. We would recommend excavating 6” below the proposed bottom of tie to a width wide enough to facilitate the proposed track shift. Backfill with clean ballast to within 2 or 3 inches of the proposed bottom of tie, shift track and then install new ballast as required for proper surfacing and dressing to contract specifications. Please advise.
B. You indicate we are to replace ties as directed by the Project Engineer before shifting the track. For bidding purposed, we need a firm or estimated quantity of ties to replace. Can you add a Bid Item for Crossties Replacement with an Estimated Quantity or provide a firm quantity?
Response #17A: Section 34 11 13 will govern track shifts. We concur with the recommendation to excavate 6˝ below the proposed bottom of tie to a width wide enough to facilitate the proposed track shift. Backfill with clean ballast to within 2 or 3 inches of the proposed bottom of tie, shift track and then install new ballast as required for proper surfacing and dressing to contract specifications. See Addendum No. 2.
Response #17B: For bidding purposes, the Contractor should allow for tie replacement of 2 out of every 5 ties in areas of track shifts (realignment) to account for damaged or deteriorated ties.
Question #18: Section 34 11 00-9 reference 3.15 TRACK SHIFTING reads: A. Contractor shall dispose of all cross ties and switch ties removed from this project, in compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations. Will the Engineer designating what ties will be acceptable for reuse and also designating ties that need to be replaced in the shifted track, we have no idea of how many ties we will have to dispose of? Crosstie Disposal has become a very expensive item. Can you add a Bid Item for Crossties Disposal with an Estimated Quantity or provide a firm quantity?
Response #18: Please refer to the response to Question 17B above. Track removed as part of this construction shall be cut into approximately 39-ft panels and stored for future use by VRE at a location on-site designated by VRE. Panels shall be placed no more that five (5) panels high.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Ties that are replaced [2 out of 5 in areas of track shift] must be disposed of properly. VRE (or designee) will determine and mark ties to be replaced prior to track shift.
Question #19: Section 34 11 19-1 reference 2.1 Rail AND 34 11 23-3 reference 2.6. These two sections call for New 132RE Rail in the new Tracks 9 & 10 and allows relay rail for all other track construction. These two sections also show a conflict for the material requirements of the turnouts.
A. New 132RE Rail has become nearly obsolete and replaced by 136RE. The rail mill will only roll this section if you order more than 1,000 metric tons and will probably discontinue any rolling’s in the near future. All the Mainline Railroads have revised their new material standards to 136RE. We recommend changing the 132RE to 36RE for all NEW Rail or Turnouts. Relay 132RE is still available and the Joint Bars and Tie Plates are interchangeable between the two sections. Please advise.
B. Section 34 11 19-1 reference 2.1 allows the use of Relay Turnout Material AND 34 11 23-3 reference 2.6 says all Turnout Material to be NEW. Please advise.
Response #19A: Use of 136RE rail is acceptable. Plans and specifications have been revised accordingly. See Addendum No. 2.
Response #19B: Please see the response to Question #27 below.
Question #20: Section 34 11 19-2 reference D. This article calls for the Contractor to Furnish and Install Compromise Joints where required. Please provide all the existing rail section of all the affected tracks or locations where compromise bars will be required.
Response #20: Given revision to 136RE rail (see response #19A), compromise joints are anticipated at the transition from existing rail (132RE) to new rail (136RE) at Track 0, Track 1, Track 2, and Track 8.
Question #21: Section 34 11 23-3 reference 2.4 A. and Contract Reference CSX Drawings 2205 and 2206. The specification reference calls for Pandrol Fastening System throughout the length of the Turnouts. The referenced CSX Drawings only use Pandrol Fastening in the Switch area. The remaining 150 plates are all standard double shoulder tie plates with spikes. Please clarify.
Response #21: CSX Drawing 2205 is to be used for the Turnouts.
Question #22: Section 34 11 23-4 reference 2.10 AND CSX reference drawing 2521. This section provides for two different types of Road Crossings. One is an Asphalt Light Duty Crossing and one is a Concrete Prefabricated Crossing. The CSX reference drawing 2521 also shows an Asphalt Light Duty Crossing. We have only found one Road Crossing to install on the
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express plans and that would be a 67.41’ long Precast Special Built Crossing. Please advise if there are any other crossings to install on this project.
Response #22: In addition to the Concrete Prefabricated Road Crossing, a proposed 24’-wide asphalt crossing is required across Track 9 and 10 (see C-201).
Question #23: Section 34 11 93-2 reference 2.05 B. This section specifies furnishing New WA Western Cullen Hayes Bump Post for the ends of Tracks 0, 9, and 10. I believe your existing Bump Post also have Hayes Shock Free Heads. Do you want to add Shock Free Heads to the new turnouts to be installed?
Response #23: The Hayes Shock Free Head should be included with the Bumping Post. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #24: Please confirm that the removal of the existing Drip Pans and the Furnishing and Installation of the New Drip Pans are incidental and included in Bid Item 4. Sitework = 1 Lump Sum.
Response #24: Yes, confirmed.
Question #25: Please confirm that the Removal of the Existing Bump Posts, the Installation of Temporary Bump Posts and the Furnishing and Installation of New Bump Posts are incidental and included in Bid Item 6. Trackwork = 2,557 Track Feet.
Response #25: Yes, confirmed.
Question #26: Please confirm the Construction of the Embedded Approach Track, Embedded Slab Track and the Pit Track are incidental and included in Bid Item 10. Maintenance Facility Building = 1 Lump Sum.
Response #26: The embedded approach track, embedded slab track and Pit Track (including all new rail and OTM) is included in Bid Item 10 Maintenance Facility Building. Question #27: On the Bid Form Bid Item 6 for Trackwork has a quantity of 2,557 Track Feet. This item says that along with the Bump Post Work that the following Track items are also included in this item. We have done a quick takeoff and have listed our estimated quantities associated with the items.
• New Construction of Tracks 9 and 10 Amtrac Estimate 1,812 Track Feet • Track Removals of Tracks 0, 1, 2 and 3 Amtrac Estimate 1,803 Track Feet • Shifting of Tracks 0, 2, 3 and 8 Amtrac Estimate 1,107 Track Feet • Reconstruction of Tracks 0, 1 and 2 Amtrac Estimate 1,544 Track Feet
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Our total estimated quantity for these items would be 6,266 Track Feet which is significantly higher. Also, none of the items or any combination or items match the Bid Item Quantity. Can you advise, clarify, or add separate Bid Items for the above items with quantities to the Bid Form?
Response #27: The Trackwork quantity is defined under “Trackwork” as new track to be constructed; however, the price for track removal, track shifts, lining and surfacing is incidental and is to be included in this unit price. The quantity does not include turnouts or portion of track in Building or approach slabs.
New Construction Track 9 & 10: 1718 TF New Construction Track 0, 1 & 2: 839 TF Total: 2557 TF
Question #28: It would appear that we will be removing approximately 1,800’ of existing track and stockpiling for reuse in the approximately 1,550’ of the reconstruction of Tracks 0, 1 and 2. You indicate that the Engineer will determine what material will be acceptable for reuse. We need to know before bid time what material we will be allowed to reuse and what material we will have to purchase. This could be a $100,000.00 cost difference. Please advise.
Response #28: New track to be constructed will be new rail and new ties. Reuse of track is expected for tracks to be shifted, lined and surfaced. The portions of Track 0, 1, and 2 to be extended shall be constructed with new rail and new ties.
Question #29: Drawing T-107 shows a 67’5” proposed custom Precast Concrete Crossing. There are no bid items for this crossing, and it is not listed as included or incidental to any of the Bid Items. As this is a major cost item, can you add a separate Bid Item to the Bid Sheet?
Response #29: The precast Concrete Crossing is specified under Section 34 11 23 “Special Trackwork” and the cost is to be included in bid price for “Special Trackwork”. Question #30: Can you provide a list of Plan Holders and a list of all those attending the site visits with contact information.
Response #30: The Plan Holders List (Pre-Bid Meeting Participants) can be found on VRE’s website. See Addendum No. 2 for a list of the site visit attendees.
Question #31: What type of tie plates are to be used in ballasted track? Cut plates or Pandrol plates?
Response #31: Either double shoulder tie plates or Pandrol plates may be used for new track construction. Technical Specifications Section 34 11 93 OTM listed only Pandrol plates.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Double shoulder tie plates with spikes have been added in Addendum No. 2 including details of double shoulder plate and spiking pattern – CSX drawing 2537 and 2512.
Question #32: Is rail to be welded within collector pans areas? If not, pans will need to be cut around joint bars.
Response #32: Welded rail is not required within track drip (collector) pans areas. The Contractor shall refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for installation around joint bars which may require field cutting of drip pan panels (depending on manufacturer). The Contractor may, at its discretion, avoid cutting of drip pans by eliminating joint bars by welding rail in the collector pan areas. Use of Pandrol tie plates and clips is prohibited in drip pan locations. As reference CSX MWI 801-08 “CSX Welding Manual” has been provided as part of Addendum No. 2.
Question #33: Is rail to be welded inside the new building?
Response #33: Welded rail is not required in the new building.
Question #34: What is the length of the collector pan on Track 3?
Response #34: All drip pans are to be a total of 90-ft. (Section 34 11 39 -2.01C)
Question #35: What type of tie plates are to be used in turnouts? Cut plates or Pandrol plates?
Response #35: Please see the response to Question #21 above.
Question #36: Spec Section 133419 Metal Building Systems says that the Metal Roof and Metal Wall Panels should match the existing color of the S&I Building. Can you tell us the manufacturer and color (by name & color number) of the existing Roof & Wall Panels? If not, can you provide a close-up color picture of these metal panels?
Response #36: S&I building pictures are provided below. The S&I building was by Ceco Building Systems, the Roof Panel Type is Double Lock standing seam, and the Wall Panel Type is CWP panels.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express
Question #37: There is not enough information provided to properly quote this crossing. Would it be possible to obtain a drawing of the turnout showing the limits of the crossing?
Response #37: The limits of the concrete crossing are shown on T-007 (67’-5” length) and shall be 30” minimum beyond outside rail for width.
Question #38: Do all the rooms that call for STAINED CONC FLOORS also receive the Polished Conc Floor Finishing in Section 03 35 43?
Response #38: Not applicable anymore. Specification sections 03 35 43 and 03 35 19 are deleted. All the offices and meeting rooms will receive VCT instead. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #39: Section 03 35 43 Polished Conc Floors, para 3.4.H lists four different Finished Gloss Levels between 1 and 4. Which Level of Gloss is required for this project?
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #39: Not applicable anymore. Specification section 03 35 43 is deleted. All the offices and meeting rooms will receive VCT. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #40: Section 033543 Polished Conc Floors, para 3.4.I lists four different Final Aggregate Exposure Classes between A and D. Which Level of Exposure is required for this project?
Response #40: Not applicable anymore. Specification section 03 35 43 is deleted. All the offices and meeting rooms will receive VCT. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #41: There are “Options” shown on the Elevations drawings A-203 thru A-206, but there is no place for any Options pricing on the Bid Form. Please clarify what we are supposed to do with these options?
Response #41: Considering the updates on OSHA ladder in 2018, we will provide single base bid of fixed ladder with midway landing to low roof with fall arrest system for the ladders. Provide lifeline as a fall protection from low roof. Caged ladder going from dunnage platform to the high roof will be also modified to fixed ladder with fall arrest system. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #42: In order to meet the DBE goal, can we use LDBE’s certified by MWAA?
Response #42: Only certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) will be counted towards the DBE goal for this project. DBEs must be certified by one of the following Unified Certification Programs in advance of the date set for receipt of Bids: Virginia Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD), Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) or Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). LDBE participation is not considered in satisfying the DBE goal.
Question #43: Is 136RE acceptable instead of 132RE?
Response #43: Yes, please see the response to Question #19A above.
Question #44: Is railcar delivery an option for rail delivery? If so, please let us know the serving RR and end user.
Response #44: Given the complexities of rail delivery (i.e. demurrage), ongoing passenger operations, and train storage constraints, VRE would prefer not to employ rail deliveries for this project.
Question #45: Division 28 states to provide BRIVO ACS compatible wiring for the existing access control system. Drawings E301-302 note 10 and E722 Note 1 state the access control system is future. Provide empty conduit and pull string only. Please clarify are we to provide Page 11 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express access control cable or not. There is also a specification for video surveillance system cabling. Is this work in this contract?
Response #45: Conduit and pull string are for the access control system installed by others within the LOU Facility. The Brivo reference is for the exterior access gate located at the temporary employee parking lot. The Contractor shall provide conduit, installation pull tape, leave-behind pull tape and wiring for scheduled AC/IDS devices at the temporary parking lot employee entry gate from the device locations to the area pad mounted security enclosure. In the future these components will be tied back to the existing system at the Warehouse Building. See drawing E-721.
Video surveillance system cabling is also required for the temporary employee parking lot entry gate surveillance. The Contractor shall provide conduit, installation pull tape, leave-behind pull tape and OSP rated 4UTP category 6 cable from the camera location to the area pad mounted security enclosure. Each end of the OSP rated 4UTP category 6 cable shall be terminated on a digital category 6 compatible lightening protection terminal. See drawing E-721.
Question #46: Any chance for a 10-day extension of the bid due date. In addition to the complications from business shutdowns, many track suppliers are backed up with quotes.
Response #46: Bid due date is extended to August 20, 2020. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #47: We hereby request a one-week postponement for the above referenced project. Due to the Covid-19 issues, it has become increasingly difficult to solicit subcontractor pricing. We feel a short postponement will result in more subcontractor prices and an overall better price to VRE.
Response #47: Bid due date is extended to August 20, 2020. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #48: I'm sending this email to inquire about the translucent panel specification for the project. The bid documents do not seem to include Division 8 at all. Can you please direct me to the translucent panel specification or provide some insight into when it will be published? It is vital in order to accurately estimate the required panels needed for the project.
Response #48: Section 08 45 23 - INSULATED TRANSLUCENT FIBERGLASS SANDWICH PANEL WALL SYSTEM was included as part of the IFB Specifications dated 6/15/2020.
Question #49: Page 18, H. Tab 4 References (Past and Present Experience): Identify three (3) clients for whom comparable work has been done by the Prime Contractor or is currently being performed; complete the forms included in the Bid Form (Section C and D) and include in this tab. What is the “Maximum” number of references you would like the Contractor to submit?
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #49: The Prime Contractor shall provide a maximum of three references.
Question #50: Confirm the "Building Foundation Design and Arrangements to be Finalized after Approval of PEMB Manufacturer's Drawings" as per note 5 of S-102 will be designed by STV during review of the PEMB shop drawings & delegated design. That is, Contractor is excluding any foundation re-design costs. Contractor will provide specs of PEMB, and Design will adjust the plans from there.
Response #50: The foundations will be verified during the PEMB MFR shop drawing review. The PEMB MFR will provide column base reactions and the foundation sizes as they appear on the structural drawings, which will then be verified to ensure they can handle the PEMB MFR column base reactions. If the foundations need to be resized (enlarged), a bulletin drawing will be issued, and any foundation size changes required will come at no cost to VRE. Question #51: There is no spec provided for Vinyl Composite Tiles (VCT) flooring. Please clarify.
Response #51: VCT Specification provided in Addendum No 2. VCT to be used in all office spaces and meeting rooms.
Question #52: There is no specification for Timber Sound Barriers, and the details shown on C- 705 are missing information on depth of caisson foundation and dimensions for timber lagging. Please clarify.
Response #52: Additional information has been provided on C-705. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #53: Section 2.7 D of specification 13 3419 indicates to provide factory-applied paint matching the existing S&I Building. Are we required to provide a custom color or is the manufacturer standard paint acceptable?
Response #53: Manufacturer standard paint is acceptable as long as the color matches with the existing S&I Building. S&I Building paint colors are generic – gray for doors and door frames, and beige for wall panels. See pictures under Response #36. Question #54: North & South Elevations on A-205/206 indicates four outdoor signs to be furnished and installed, labeling Track 1 and Track 2, however they do not appear on the graphics schedule or following details. In addition, on the North elevation there is a sign next to a single swinging door labeled "LIFECYCLE OVERHAUL AND UPGRADE FACILITY". Please clarify type of material, lettering to be used on these signs so we can price accurately.
Response #54: Missing outdoor signs noted have been added to the sign schedule and details provided. Outdoor signage shall be aluminum sheet. See Addendum No. 2.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #55: Forklift operator not provided in Davis Bacon wages. Please provide.
Response #55: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #56: Brick Mason & Mason tender are not provided in the Davis Bacon wages. Please provide.
Response #56: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #57: Please clarify where in the drawings the spec 12 36 23.13-referenced benches can be found. Please provide at minimum a quantity of benches to aide in a complete project bid.
Response #57: Refer to drawing A-601, Detail J. They are built-in benches in the bathrooms.
Question #58: Specs specify Handling Specialty as a possible vendor, but spec 11 00 00 calls out a Buy America 49 U.S.C. 5323(j)(1) requirement. Handling Specialty is a Canadian company. Will there be any Buy America waivers or exceptions?
Response #58: Handling Specialty is owned by the Whiting Corporation of Monee, IL. This equipment should be able to comply with the Buy America requirements, if properly handled by the manufacturer. Actually, Handling Specialty should be listed second in the specification because the BOD is the unit manufactured by LPI. Question #59: Please confirm that we can assume all BOD materials specified in the issued project spec are Buy America Compliant.
Response #59: Assumption is correct.
Question #60: Sheet C-501 shows a proposed waterline crossing under existing tracks 7/8. The method of installation is assumed to be jack and bore for this stretch under active rail. To clear tracks 7/8, the receiving pit on the South side of the tracks would encroach on track 4/5 just before the 45-degree bend. Please confirm that a clearance of <10' to the CL of the nearest track is adequate in this case, so long as we meet live load surcharge requirements per C-002 Note 4. Similarly, the planned method of installing the waterline beyond this 45-degree bend to the south between tracks 5&6 is trench boxes. Please confirm this will be allowed and that the note 8 on C- 002 for "A minimum distance of 10' from the CL of the track to the face of the nearest point of shoring shall be maintained" may be waived. Although this is an active rail yard, trains will be operating at minimum speeds, reducing the risk that the AREMA guidelines were written considering.
Response #60: All Support of Excavation (SOE) plans and calculations must be reviewed and approved by VRE prior to installation. VRE recognizes both the geometric constraints and
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express operating conditions of the yard and would likely approve shoring beyond the 10-ft limit, but would not consider any system within 7-ft of centerline of track [relates to Question #64].
If the Contractor’s means/methods and schedule employ open cut and thus removal of track, then the integrity of the track shall be maintained. Track would be inspected before and after such construction and any necessary repairs made by the Contractor. Such work could occur:
1. Over a weekend after all trains are positioned within the yard. 2. After all trains leave Track 6, 7 and 8 in the morning and completing work before they re-enter in the afternoon.
Question #61: Sheet C-502 shows a waterline running perpendicular underneath track 8, connecting to line to the east running parallel to tracks 9/10. There is no room for a receival pit on the West side of track 8, as track 7 stays active during construction (29' approximately between CL of track 8 and CL of track 9). Since jack and bore seems not to be an option, please confirm that an outage of track 8 may be obtained for an open-cut installation method, so long as we maintain the minimum amount of track-feet for storage at the end of each shift. We will carry the cost of a temporary bumping post for this temporarily shortened track 8. Exactly where the temp bumping post will go will depend on total TF required to be restored at the end of each shift.
Response #61: See the response to Question #60.
Question #62: Sheets C-501 and C-502 show a 12" DIP waterline between tracks 5 and 6 parallel to them. Sheet C-502 also shows another waterline running in the west side of the proposed track 9. However, sheet C-604 (Waterline Profiles) shows only the profile for one 12" waterline. Please provide the profiles missing for the waterlines.
Response #62: Please refer to new sheet C-605 Waterline Profiles for information on the waterline in question. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #63: Sheet C-501 and C-502 show existing waterlines between tracks 5 and 6 & between tracks 7 and 8. Please advise if these waterlines and any other existing utilities will be abandoned.
Response #63: Existing water lines are to remain active and will not be abandoned.
Question #64: There is a proposed 6" waterline and a 3" waterline running east to west underneath tracks 4 and 5 to the south of the proposed maintenance building, stopping short of Tk3. We plan to install these runs using jack & bore method, during phase 3 to utilize the tk 3 outage so that we have sufficient room to the west for a receiving pit. However, the launching pit on the east side will be close to Tk6. Please confirm this will be allowed and that the note 8 on Page 15 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express C-002 for "A minimum distance of 10' from the CL of the track to the face of the nearest point of shoring shall be maintained" may be waived. Although this is an active rail yard, trains will be operating at minimum speeds, reducing the risk that the AREMA guidelines were written considering.
Response #64: See the response to Question #60.
Question #65: Please confirm that the gate described in 11 14 10 for Pedestrian Control Equipment is the same "Secure Access Gate for VRE Personnel" per C-203, whose details are shown on 4/E-721. Confirm the CCTV pole and two (2) electrical boxes shown in the detail 4/E- 721 are to be installed at this pedestrian gate location at the West end of the temporary parking lot.
Response #65: Yes, confirmed, the Pedestrian Control Equipment and Secure Access Gate for VRE Personnel are one in the same and yes, the pole and electrical faculties noted are for this equipment.
Question #66: Page 19 item 34 of the IFB, requires the contractor to submit (1) electronic copy (CD or USB device) of financial statements for the current fiscal year and the past two (2) years. We request in lieu of this, to submit an alternate statement from our Bonding Company and Bank.
Response #66: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #67: Detail J on drawing S-502 shows an L angle at top of CMU conditions, however this detail is not referenced on any of the other drawings. Please clarify where this detail is applicable, and if the intention is for this to be a delegated design attachment detail by the pre- engineered metal building subcontractor.
Response #67: This detail is intended to brace the tops of the interior CMU walls at the low roof area. The angle braces should connect from the top of the interior CMU walls to the PEMB low roof beam framing. The angle bracing will need to be measured and cut in the field to satisfy that the tops of the interior CMU walls are braced per the detail. This is not a delegated design item by the PEMB, this is to be performed by the Contractor in the field.
Question #68: Please clarify the locations where detail L on drawing S-503 is applicable.
Response #68: See Section 5/S-301.
Question #69: We have additional RFIs to develop. We request an extension of 1 week on the RFI deadline.
Page 16 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #69: Bid due date is extended to August 20, 2020. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #70: G-003 shows the west building foundations occurring during Phase 2. 1) are there restrictions on where the west foundations may be split from the remainder of foundations to be poured in later phases? 2) will west foundation walls be sufficient for retaining soil without the east foundations being complete?
Response #70:
1) The foundations which are down at the drop table pit level must be poured monolithic with the Drop Table Pit mat slab, other than that there are no restrictions for splitting the west foundations from the remainder of the foundations. The west foundations consist of isolated spread footings at column locations and grade beams beneath the exterior walls.
2) The grade beams on the west and east ends are independent of each other, however, the grade beams were not designed to act as a retaining wall, they were designed as a trench footing, and will need to be backfilled in a manner that an unbalanced soil condition does not occur on either side of the grade beam.
Question #71: Are there required locations / dimensions on the placement of joints / pour breaks in walls, particularly in the Drop Table?
Response #71: There are no required locations for construction joints, however there are requirements for contraction joints in the concrete walls for the Drop Table Pit and the Wheel Truing Pit in accordance with A/S-502 “Wall Details”.
Question #72: Please clarify if the pre-engineered metal building column reactions shown on drawing S-005 include the loading created by the overhead crane. If overhead crane loading is not included, please specify the minimum loading requirements for this scope of work.
Response #72: Per the notes on S-005, the load includes crane loading. The PEMB MFR will need to include the overhead crane forces in their analysis of the PEMB columns and the summarization of their PEMB column base reactions. The PEMB MFR is required to design the superstructure per the crane loading per Note 3 in the PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDINGS / COMPONENTS on S-002.
Question #73: Regarding Base Plate BP-1, it indicates that the PEMB sub must design the base plate, shear lug, gusset plate. If these items must increase will this increase be concerned a change condition that the PEMB sub will have entitlement and receive a change order.
Page 17 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #73: The entirety of the superstructure including the base plate, column and shear lugs (if applicable) are designed by the PEMB. These items must be included in the PEMB vendor’s bid price.
Question #74: Regarding the anchor bolts at Base Plate BP-1, the anchor bolt quantity, diameter, and length are provided. If these anchor bolts must change due to the PEMB design, will the PEMB sub have entitlement for a change order? If the PEMB sub must complete the design to determine the final anchor bolt design, then please consider adding an Allowance to capture any additional cost beyond the initial design provided on detail B/S504.
Response #74: The PEMB only specifies the diameter, quantity, and location of the anchor rods. The structural engineer of record designs the embedment length of the anchor rods. The anchor rod design cannot be completed until the PEMB provides the required anchor rod diameter and the column base reactions during the shop drawing review phase. The anchor rod sizes shown are the engineer’s assumed diameter and embedment and are subject to review once the PEMB submits their shop drawings and the anchor rod sizes are confirmed. The anchor rods are not provided by the PEMB, they are supplied by the Contractor.
Question #75: Please provide an additional elevation detail for the 1" x 11" x 1'-8" plates shown at the wheel truing pit in detail B of drawing S-401.
Response #75: Detail is not able to be provided. This plate will come from the Wheel Truing Machine Manufacturer. Wheel Truing details are subject to change once shop drawings are received. Per note on S-101, “DROP TABLE AND WHEEL TRUING PIT DIMENSIONS AND DETAILS ARE BASED ON TYPICAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO MODIFICATION TO SUIT THE ACTUAL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED. PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION OF THE PIT, VERIFY ALL DIMENSIONS, DETAILS AND LOCATIONS OF ANCHOR BOLTS AND EMBEDDED ITEMS WITH THE EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER. IT IS THE CONTRACTOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO MODIFY THE DETAILS TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE EQUIPMENT PROVIDED AND TO OBTAIN THE ENGINEER'S APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS.”
Question #76: Please confirm the contractor is not required to engage a commissioning agent and this will be supplied by the owner.
Response #76: VRE and its agents (CM and EOR) will perform final walkthrough inspection of the facility. Spotsylvania County will perform final inspection for Certificate of Occupancy. The Contractor must fulfill all requirements for providing testing, manuals, training, etc. as declared in the Contract Documents. There are specific conditions to be met for commissioning, but a Commissioning Agent is not required.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #77: Please confirm if the contractor is required to provide a public safety DAS. Drawing E-301 shows a connection for a future antenna. Is this the Distributed antenna system? Please advise.
Response #77: 2012 Virginia Construction Code Section 915 “In-Building Emergency Communications Coverage” only requires the radiating cable to be installed for public safety wireless communications. Code reads:
“915.1.1 Installation. The building cover shall install radiating cable, such as coaxial cable or equivalent. The radiating cable shall be installed in dedicated conduits, raceways, plenums, attics, or roofs, compatible for these specific installations as well as other applicable provisions of this code. The locality shall be responsible for the installation of any additional communication equipment required of the system.”
Also refer to Specification section 28 31 00, which references the above code requirement.
Question #78: Please confirm if lightning protection is required for this project. The drawings only appear to show grounding details, but no lighting arrestors for the building and roof.
Response #78: It is not required.
Question #79: On the electrical site plans, there have been many references to capping and abandoning conduits in place. Does the designer have a preferred capping detail for these abandoned conduits? Please advise.
Response #79: For non-metallic conduits, terminate with plastic bell couplings set flush with end of concrete envelope, and install plastic plugs. For metallic conduits, terminate with metallic couplings set flush with end of concrete envelope, and install well-greased plumbers plugs or threaded plastic plugs. Any exposed reinforcing bars shall be greased and wrapped in burlap.
Question #80: It is not inherently clear as to who will be responsible for the removal of the transformers shown near the wooded area. For instance, note 9A states "Existing 1000KVA, 12.47KV--480/277V utility transformer for yard switchgear to be removed and replaced with 2000KVA, 35KV-480/277V Transformer by REC. The note seems to hint that the demolition is with the contractor and the new transformer installation is with REC. Please confirm this is inaccurate and that REC will be performing a turnkey removal, demo, and install of the transformers on site.
Response #80: Confirmed – REC shall perform all the work stated in that note. The Contractor shall coordinate with REC and VRE regarding timing and outages.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #81: Please reference drawing A-111. This drawing includes a note for pricing an optional lifeline fall protection system from column line intersections A.1&2 to N&2. Please advise how this option is to be presented on the bid form submission.
Response #81: Provide only base bid for lifeline from column line intersections A.1&2 to N&2.
Question #82: Please reference drawing EQ-303. Please confirm the rigid lifeline system above each track is to support two simultaneous workers.
Response #82: Correct, each fall protection beam shall be capable of supporting 2 workers with non-simultaneous falls.
Question #83: There seems to be a point along the ductbank pathway where the ductbank transitions from a section A-A ductbank to a B1-B1 ductbank. This also appears to happen again on E-015 where the ductbank transitions from a A-A to a K-K type ductbank. How does the same ductbank transition to different kinds of ductbanks without a manhole or junction box included? Where does this transition occur? Is this a typo and should all of the ductbanks downstream of the switchgear pad shown on E-015 be type K-K? Please advise.
Response #83:
• Section A-A is a composite of ductbank sections running adjacent to each other. It consists of B1-B1 next to K-K. • Section B1-B1 is for REC and shall be run separately from handhole and other ductbanks. It shall run adjacent to new and existing ductbanks. • Section K-K is comprised of feeders for the existing S&I building and new Wayside Power Track 0, Section D3-D3. A handhole is shown to intercept existing S&I feeders and re-direct feeders to new switchboard #4 via new conduits in K-K. D3-D3 merges with the new S&I conduits to form K-K. • The drawings are revised in Addendum No. 2 to match the conduit configuration in D3- D3 with the conduit configuration in K-K for continuity.
Question #84: On drawing E-012, note 2A states that we are to provide a handhole, what is the size/dimensions of this handhole? The ductbank cross section detail drawings do not appear to show a handhole/junction box detail. Please advise.
Response #84: (Assume this is referring to E-013) Handhole shall be sized in accordance with the National Electric Code (NEC).
Question #85: Drawing S-002 classifies this job as a seismic design category B. Due to this classification, please confirm that no seismic bracing is required for fire suppression, HVAC, and plumbing systems. Page 20 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #85: That is correct. Provision of seismic restraints are not required for MEP/F-P work, because the site is classified as seismic design category “B”.
Question #86: The referenced specification section (149300 2.02 F) discusses progression system to be located in the equipment pit. This is not typically provided in a drop table system. Please confirm if this is a requirement for this project.
Response #86: This is a specific requirement of this equipment to provide the capability to move a spare truck or the HEP extractor to or from the lowered drop table transfer table, in the pit, to an open area below the release track adjacent to the drop table as shown on the contract drawings.
Question #87: The referenced specification section (149300 2.02 A.6) describes a jack nut housing design specific to one manufacturer. Can the item be revised to state jack nut housing be provided in accordance with manufacturer's standard design?
Response #87: No, guide rollers shall be required on the transfer table columns to transfer any lateral loads from screw jack nut housing into the columns as stated in the specification.
Question #88: The referenced specification section (149300 2.04 B.4) states insulation shall be class F. Temperature rating of motors shall not exceed that permitted by class B insulation. Motor windings shall be copper wire. Please confirm if it is acceptable to use inverter duty motors and that class H insulation meet this requirement.
Response #88: If inverter duty motors are used, class H wire insulation shall be required.
Question #89: The referenced specification section (149300 2.04 D.2) states all below track level electrical enclosures shall be constructed to NEMA 4X standards. Please advise if NEMA 4 are acceptable, as this should meet the design intent and are more readily available
Response #89: No, all electrical enclosures below top of rail shall be constructed to NEMA 4X standards.
Question #90: Some sections on the drop pit call for dumbbell waterstop e.g. 1/S304 and 2/S304. The sections appear to call for dumbbell waterstop at the joints encompassing the lowest part of the sump pit. However, section 1S-301 shows one of the joints (the joint between the north wall and the mat slab) to have bentonite waterstop. Please advise if bentonite waterstop is acceptable everywhere, including at the sump pit joints, or if it is required at the joints at the lowest portion of the job (sump pit) only, or if there is another intent for locations of bentonite vs dumbbell waterstop?
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #90: The intent is for the waterstop to be a bentonite waterstop. The dumbbell type waterstop can be substituted for a bentonite waterstop.
Question #91: A/S107 calls for a 6" concrete slab over gravel over the eastern most reservoir of the sump pit. The detail calls for #4@18" reinforcement. Section 3/S304 through this area calls for #5 @12" reinforcement in this area. Please advise which is correct.
Response #91: Unable to locate where Section 3/S-304 calls for #5@12 reinforcement. Section 3/S-304 states “6” concrete slab (See Plan for reinforcement). The reinforcement called out on the plan indicates #4@18.
Question #92: Please advise if any waterstop is required at the below grade cold joints at the wheel truing pit.
Response #92: Waterstops are not required at the Wheel Truing Pit.
Question #93: 1/S102 shows 2 separate spread footings for the columns at grids 2/C and 2/D, connected by a grade beam. 1/S107 shows these footings to be combined, i.e. the area between them is also a 3' thick. Are they to be separate spread footings, or combined into 1 larger footing?
Response #93: The Drop Table Pit Mat is combined with the column footings for columns C-2 and D-2. The area between them can step to being 2’ thick which is the thickness of the mat slab. The theoretical footing outline of the 3’ portion of the mat slab is shown on S-102. The top of the footing and the top of the mat are both at elevations (-26’).
Question #94: The spread footing at grid 1/E is shown to be F12.0, which is a 2'-8" thick footing. However, section cut 5/S303 taken through this footing shows a 2'-0" thick footing. Please advise on correct thickness.
Response #94: The footing at E-1 is connected to the mat slab of the wheel truing pit. The column footing should be 2’-8” for the size of the footing shown and can taper to 2’-0” outside of the column footings footprint.
Question #95: There are several perimeter piers with grade beams framing into them above the footing elevation. Please provide reinforcing detail or advise if any additional rebar is required at the offset condition.
Response #95: The longitudinal bars of the grade beam will pass through the piers.
Question #96: With reference to spec. section VII Insurance requirements section 02 calls for builders risk insurance in 100% of contract value for general contractor. In terms of sitework Page 22 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express subcontractors working on this project like to confirm industry standard of excluding sitework from builder’s risk insurance policy is applicable. And builders risk policy is only required by general contractor and for those performing building related work. Any excavations, backfills, foundations, underground utilities, erosion, clearing and similar sitework firms are excluded from providing this. Please confirm.
Response #96: The Prime Contractor is required to provide Builders Risk Insurance coverage. The Builders Risk policy should cover the interest of all parties.
Question #97: Spec. section VII Insurance requirements 05 Railroad protective Liability insurance: Can CSX Transportation, Inc. provide a fee or allowance for Railroad Protective Liability insurance for general contractor and subcontractors on this project? It’s challenging for small support sub-contractors (vac truck operators, private utility locators, testing firms) to procure Railroad Protective Liability if their current insurance company does not provide this coverage or include necessary endorsements. This helps to attain DBE and SWaM participation/utilization as well.
Response #97: A fee or allowance for Railroad Protective Liability Insurance (RPLI) will not be provided for this project.
Question #98: Spec. section VII Insurance requirements 03 Commercial General Liability Insurance: Subsection A & B call for two separate commercial general liability insurance policy. Question is if section B just calls for “CSX Transportation, Inc.” as additional insured, why can’t it be on the same policy? The limits are the same and having it on one policy is correct way of providing this. Please clarify basis of this requirement.
Response #98: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #99: Is there a sequence plan for installation for buried wet utilities (water, sewer & storm). These run linearly across different phases as shown on sheet #4. Between demolition and installation of new lines is there a sequence of install available? Or does it have to be installed in small increments pertaining to each phase i.e. have multiple mobilization to extend from each phase into next and so on so forth?
Response #99: Suggested sequence of construction is provided as guidance to maintain rail operation and capacity in the yard during construction. It is up to the Contractor to decide if the sequence will be followed and how work will be executed to address any such phasing.
Question #100: Is any of these wet utilities expected to be installed by boring or trenchless methods?
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #100: Boring or trenchless methods may be required where such utilities pass under active track(s). If the Contractor’s means/methods and schedule employ open cut and thus removal of track, then the integrity of the track shall be maintained. Track would be inspected before and after such construction and any necessary repairs made by the Contractor.
Question #101: Is bid form item #9 Excess Soil Material Testing and Offsite Disposal 5,000 CY a contingent item i.e. will be only utilized if required and adjusted per actual final quantities?
Response #101: No, this is not a contingent item. This quantity is for soils excavated for construction of the building and adjacent track as identified as part of Zone B. Please see Figure SP-1 in Addendum No. 2.
Question #102: Will consideration be made to extend the Bid Date?
Response #102: Bid due date is extended to August 20, 2020. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #103: Can a CAD file be provided for the earthwork analysis?
Response #103: Please see response to Question #1.
Question #104: The plans (Volume 1 - sheet 8 of 274) show that a portion of the existing chain link fence along the western boundary, which is contiguous to the CSXT tracks, is to be demolished and replaced with a new chain link fence in the same location (Volume 1 - sheet 12 of 274). A proposed embankment is also shown in this area (Volume 1 - sheet 17 of 274) to the west of the fencing location. There does not appear to be any temporary provisions/fencing shown while this embankment is to be established. Please clarify how the maintenance facility yard can remain secure while this work is being performed.
Response #104: In order to maintain security, the Contractor shall provide either temporary fence, post a security guard, or only remove what can be completed and replaced within a workday.
Question #105: The majority of the excavation for this project appears to be within what is shown as the Phase 1 limits of the erosion & sediment control (Volume 1 - sheets 23 through 26 of 274). The Erosion Control Plans also indicate that no work can be performed within what is shown as the Phase 2 limits of the erosion & sediment control (Volume 1 - sheet 24 of 274) until Phase 1 is complete and permanently stabilized. Please confirm that no onsite excavated material will be allowed to be placed in the proposed embankment area along the western boundary until the contractor is authorized to commence work within the Phase 2 erosion & sediment control limits.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #105: Phase 1 E&SC measures are intended to be the initial measures installed at the start of work in any respective area with Phase 2 measures being those that are established as construction advances in any respective area. Therefore, work in an area can progress at any time if the associated measure for that phase of work are in place.
Question #106: On page 34 of the IFB (0.6.A) “Excess Material (Soils) Testing and Disposal” there is a reference to an attached drawing Figure SP-1 Limits of Project Excavation. We could not find this attached drawing, please clarify.
Response #106: Figure SP-1 was inadvertently left out of the Special Provisions and has been added for use by Bidders. See Addendum No. 2.
Question #107: Page 35 of the IFB (B) “Excess Materials Quantities and Payment” indicates the Contractor shall make every effort to utilize or otherwise dispose of surplus soils within the limits of the project area, etc. as a cost saving for the owner, would it be acceptable to expand the limits of grading if necessary to eliminate the need to haul excess material offsite? If so, can the Contractor assume that all excess material can be placed in the expanded grading limits and what will the compaction requirements be?
Response #107: Yes, VRE would entertain the disposal of excess soil materials on-site. Such grading / disposal is subject to review and approval by VRE and may require revision to the approved site permit. The Contractor would assume costs and schedule risks of such revisions to the approved permit.
Question #108: Are there specifications for the backfill of the building foundation and drop table pit? If so, please clarify where they can be found.
Response #108: See information provided in Updated Geotechnical Engineering Report dated 11/9/2015.
Question #109: Will the list of site visit attendees for Session 3 be posted on your project website?
Response #109: See Addendum No. 2.
Question #110: Will DBE participation be an evaluated criterion and scored towards selection? If yes, how will it be weighted?
Response #110: DBE participation is not an evaluated criterion and will not be scored towards selection of a Contractor.
Question #111: Is the safety and security manager allowed to have other responsibilities? Page 25 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #111: See the response to Question #8.
Question #112: Please indicate your budget for the construction of this project and summarize your funding sources.
Response #112: Please see the response to Question #14.
Question #113: Will this project be necessarily awarded to the lowest price bidder, or will there be other criteria involved in final selection of a contractor?
Response #113: Following evaluation of Bids, VRE will make the award to the lowest responsible and responsive Bidder conforming to the solicitation requirements on a Total Price basis.
Question #114: What are CSXT's restrictions on time of work?
Response #114: VRE has reason to believe that due to the location of the work in comparison to the CSXT tracks, a CSXT flagman will not be required to perform the work, therefore CSXT will not impose time restrictions. Should a flagman be required, for bidding purposes, assume that time of work will be that same as that prescribed by VRE.
Question #115: Drawing E-040A Note 1 states to provide new 800A breaker for the existing switchgear 2. Can VRE provide pictures of the existing switchgear?
Response #115:
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #116: Notes on Drawing P-103 state that sanitary piping and some drain piping will be in a concrete encasement. Please confirm that the intent behind this note is that the piping will be enclosed by concrete, not that the piping will need a separate, extra concrete encasement separate from the slab being poured. Response #116: There are two instances indicating “PIPING IN CONCRETE ENCASEMENT”. For the PD line at Column Line D, between Column Line 1 and 1.4, the need for concrete encasement can be removed as these lines are below the floor slab and do not need extra protection from the track area.
For the second instance outside the building footprint along column line A.1, the buried piping shall require concrete encasement to provide protection from the structural loading of the tracks above. As this is outside the building floor slab, a separate concrete encasement is required.
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express
Question #117: 6" PVC underdrain runs alongside rails per C-302. What is depth of this pipe? Please show in TK detail on T-201.
Response #117: On C-302 the underdrains along west side of Track “0” is called out as 4” diameter; not 6”. No other tracks have underdrains. The underdrain is shown graphically in X- sections. The minimum depth should be 2’-8” below top-of-rail sloping to outfall at a minimum slope of 0.5%.
Question #118: What is the required height under hook of the bridge crane?
Response #118: The minimum hook height required is 32’-4” above the shop floor, see drawing EQ-301. Question #119: On sheet A-101 and A-102, the extents of rooms 600 Repair Shop and 612 Support Shop are not defined. Performing a takeoff for amount of epoxy flooring needed for this rooms is impossible. What are the floor areas of each room?
Response #119: 45’-2” x 17’-6” for 612 Support Shop and 83’-2” X 325’-0” for 600 Repair Shop
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IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #120: Please provide external loading tables for the following equipment components shown on drawing EQ-101: • Personnel Scissor Lift (EQ-01) • Head End Power Extractor (EQ-04) • Fall Protection System (EQ-06) • WTM Chip Container (EQ-08)
Response #120: This question needs to be further clarified. Structural drawings indicate maximum loads on floor slabs. Question #121: Drawing A-112 calls for a single OSHA compliant roof anchor as part of the base scope of work. Please clarify if there are to be additional anchors at the main roof and revise the drawings to show these anchors.
Response #121: Anchors are added for main roof- at every column (25’). See Addendum No. 2.
Question #122: Detail 1 of drawing A-113 shows two (2) wall mounted anchors at the low roof dunnage structure. Please clarify if these anchors are the only two wall-mounted anchors on this project, and if they are not, provide additional wall-mounted anchor locations. Please also clarify if the option to provide anchors at every column line should extend the full length of the building.
Response #122: See Addendum No. 2. For low roof, lifeline with anchors at every column thru full length of the building will be provided.
Question #123: Detail 6 of drawing A-511 shows a drop down curtain on the side of the exterior canopy over chip container. Please specify the material, color, and product information for the drop down curtain. Please also revise the wall section drawings to show a structural beam backing for the tension cable canopy support.
Response #123: Provide clear plastic industrial drop down curtain.
Question #124: Note 1.a on S-002 states that bidders, and their pre-engineered metal building suppliers/designers, are to coordinate PEMB design with the Engineer of Record for "final foundation size, locations, and reinforcing." Please confirm that alterations to the foundation design resulting from PEMB design will be a change to the contract.
Response #124: Please see the response to Question #50 above.
Question #125: Specification 14 93 00 Drop Table: Page 10 – Item 1.07 A Will drawings be provided of railcars and trucks that will be used on the drop table showing overall dimensions and locations of jacking pads? Page 29 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Response #125: Such drawings are not required for bidding purposes. The successful Bidder will be provided drawings of all vehicle dimensions that will operate in this shop.
Question #126: Specification 14 93 00 Drop Table: Page 16 – Item 2.02.A.3 Please clarify what is meant by elevating jack screws arranged in an inverted mode.
Response #126: The lifting nut is below the lifting beam assembly. Question #127: Specification 14 93 00 Drop Table: Page 17 – Item 2.02.B.6 Requires a minimum ¾ inch thick non-skid diamond plate – Is it acceptable to use ½ inch plate if the plate support structure is sufficient to support the required loading?
Response #127: It is acceptable to use ½” diamond plate steel as long as calculations show the support structure is sufficient to support the required loads without deformation. However, for consistency between Bidders, assume the specified ¾” plates are required. Question #128: Specification 14 93 00 Drop Table: Page 19 – Item 2.02.C.3 Requires a minimum ¾ inch thick non-skid diamond plate – Is it acceptable to use ½ inch plate if the plate support structure is sufficient to support the required loading?
Response #128: It is acceptable to use ½” diamond plate steel as long as calculations show the support structure is sufficient to support the required loads without deformation. However, for consistency between Bidders, assume the specified ¾” plates are required.
Question #129: Specification 14 93 00 Drop Table: Page 26 – Item 2.04.B This states that motors shall be required with bimetal thermal type starters and overcurrent protection – Is it acceptable to provide motors with Variable Speed Drives to meet these requirements?
Response #129: Yes, the use of variable speed drive motors is acceptable.
Question #130: Attachment C, Part I states "The Contractor agrees that any new building or addition to an existing building will be designed and constructed in accordance with the standards...." Please confirm that the requirement for Contractor to certify design only applies to those items specifically designated as delegated design in the Contract Documents. The Contractor cannot certify design for which it is not responsible.
Response #130: Agreed, the Contractor cannot certify design for which it is not responsible. The Contractor is responsible for all elements (primary components and subcomponents) of the delegated design. Question #131: Spec 077200 Roof Accessories includes roof hatch but none are shown on the drawings. Please confirm no roof hatch is required.
Response #131: Confirmed, no roof hatch is required. Page 30 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express Question #132: Section 13(A) states "Under no circumstances will VRE be responsible for consequential costs associated with delays." Is it the intent of this section to state that VRE will not be responsible for any of Contractor's costs due to delays caused by VRE (or its separate contractors)? Or is the Section intended to state that VRE is not responsible for consequential damages (such as lost profit) due to delays caused by VRE (or its separate contractors)?
Response #132: See Addendum No. 2. VRE has elected liquidated damages as the remedy for delay damages and thus would not seek any consequential damages as a result of delays. Question #133: Does the Non-Collusion Affidavit need to be notarized?
Response #133: No. The Non-Collusion Affidavit does not need to be notarized.
Page 31 of 31 Questions & Answers
IFB No. 020-020 IFB Title: Construction of the LOU Facility Virginia Railway Express