<p> Mn/DOT Bridge Office Rating Analysis of Local Bridges Revised 6/21/11</p><p>Question and Answers</p><p>Question 1: Section III of the Pre-Qualification Announcement states “A complete independent check is required for analysis and ratings for each bridge.” Does this mean each bridge must be analyzed and rated using a separate computer program from VIRTIS or does it mean the independent checker will analyze and rate each bridge separately using VIRTIS or does it mean the independent checker just reviews the VIRTIS input? Please detail the independent checking requirements further.</p><p>Answer 1: It mean the independent checker just reviews the VIRTIS input.</p><p>Question 2: p. 4 – V. C. 3. – last sentence – “Rating and load posting report forms for all concrete and steel bridges will be submitted for the ASR method only.” Question: Please clarify what method will be used for rating and posting forms for various materials. </p><p>Answer 2: The sentence should read as follows: “Rating and load posting report forms for all concrete and steel bridges will be submitted using the LFR method only, and rating and load posting report forms for all timber bridges will be submitted for the ASR method only.” </p><p>Question 3: p. 4 – V. C. 3. – first sentence – “All reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete and steel bridges will be rated for both LFR and LRFR methods.” Question: Previous contract was LRFR for concrete only – verifying this contract will be LRFR for concrete and steel.</p><p>Answer 3: The last version of Virtis software could not rate steel bridges in LRFR. With the new version, it is now capable of performing the task. That is why both concrete and steel are to be rated in LFR and LRFR. </p><p>Question 4: Bridge lists – Question: Some bridges on the lists have recently been inspected and load rated for various reasons, and explanations could possibly be desired in some cases before removing these bridges from the final bridge lists assigned to contractors – are there specific dates after LOI are submitted to address these bridges, and what is the best method of communication?</p><p>Answer 4: Upon selection of the Contractors the Bridge lists will be updated. </p><p>Question 5: Is an inspection of every bridge required or only in cases where accurate rating information is not otherwise available?</p><p>Page 1 of 2 Answer 5: A field investigation of each bridge is required. The field investigation/inspection will be to the extent necessary to perform an accurate rating analysis and to verify no changes in the current inspection and inventory reports.</p><p>Page 2 of 2</p>