4510--36C26126Q0490 | Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides the VA's responses to RFIs (Requests for Information) 1 through 10 regarding Solicitation No. 36C26126Q0490 for Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements.

• Shutdown Restrictions: Work hours are not restricted to nights, weekends, or off-hours. Bidders should refer to the solicitation for specific hours.
• BAS System Integration: The contractor is not responsible for integrating new mixing valves into the existing BAS system.
• Control Panels: Existing control panels are to be replaced.
• Valves to be Replaced: Only the blue Valbia automatic control valves and the mixing valves themselves are to be replaced. Other valves (PRVs, balancing valves, T&Ps, backflows) are not to be replaced.
• Shutoff Valves: Existing shutoff valves to the mixing valves are operational.
• Material Lead Times: A 60-day material order lead time is included in the period of performance. A justification letter from the manufacturer will be required if lead times exceed this.
• Alternate Manufacturers: This is a brand name or equal procurement. Bidders should refer to the solicitation for specific requirements regarding alternate manufacturers.
• Startup & Commissioning: The manufacturer's representative is not required for startup, programming, and commissioning of Armstrong DRV80 valves. The COR will be responsible for system balancing and final temperature verification.
• Installation Phasing: All mixing valves can be replaced during a single shutdown; phased installation is not required. Temporary domestic hot water service is not required during construction.

These responses clarify specific aspects of the procurement, particularly regarding the scope of work, valve replacements, and contractor responsibilities. Bidders should review these clarifications in conjunction with the original solicitation to ensure their proposals accurately address all requirements.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment serves to provide the VA's responses to vendor questions (RFIs 1-10) related to Solicitation No. 36C26126Q0490.

This amendment does not alter the original solicitation's terms and conditions, but provides clarification through RFI responses.

Contractors are reminded that all amendments must be acknowledged by returning a signed copy at the time of proposal submission. All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a sign-in sheet for a site visit/walk for Project NCO 21: Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements at the VA Palo Alto MC. It records attendees and their contact information.

• Project Name: NCO 21: Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements at VA Palo Alto MC, Palo Alto, CA
• Meeting Date: 04/15/2026, 9:30 AM PDT
• Location: 3801 Miranda Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94304-1207
• Facilitator: Anthony St. John/COR
• Attendees' Names, Titles (Prime or Subcontractor), Organizations, Phone Numbers, and Email Addresses.

This document indicates which organizations attended the site visit. This can provide insight into potential competitors or collaborators who are interested in the project. The contact information may be useful for networking or further inquiry, though direct solicitation is not implied.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment provides the site visit sign-in sheet from April 15, 2026.

• A new attachment, "Attachment - Pre-Solicitation Site Visit Sign In Sheet 04-15-26," is provided.

• Contractors are reminded that they must acknowledge all amendments by returning a signed copy at the time of proposal submission.

• All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged.

Amendment / Modification

• The Request for Quotation (RFQ) due date has been extended.

• Original Due Date: April 30, 2026

• New Due Date: May 06, 2026, by 12:00 PM PDT.

• RFQ Due Date

• Offerors/Bidders now have until May 06, 2026, 12:00 PM PDT, to submit their offers.

• Contractors are reminded to acknowledge all amendments by returning a signed copy with their proposal submission.

• All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI) FORM" intended for potential offerors to submit questions regarding Solicitation 36C26124R0024. Responses to these inquiries will be provided in amendment format via SAM.gov.

• Contact Information: Requires submission of questions via email to David.Rovner@va.gov, with a cc to Daniel.Jhun@va.gov.
• Inquiry Identification: Offerors must identify each set of inquiries numerically (RFI #1, RFI #2, etc.).
• Question Categories: Inquiries can be related to the solicitation/evaluation factors or the statement of work/technical data.
• Company Information: Fields for Company Name, Offeror, Person Submitting Question, Date of Inquiry, and Phone Number.
• Proposal Inquiry Section: A space to type the specific questions.

This form is crucial for bidders to submit any questions they have about the solicitation or its associated documents. It outlines the official process for asking questions and specifies the required information to be included. Bidders are responsible for checking SAM.gov for amendments that will contain answers to these inquiries.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) for Davis-Bacon Act wage determinations in California. It lists prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction trades across multiple counties. The document includes modification numbers and publication dates for the wage determinations.

This document is crucial for bidders on federal or federally-funded construction projects in California. It provides the legally mandated minimum wage rates and fringe benefits that must be paid to laborers and mechanics employed on such projects. Bidders must consult this document to accurately estimate labor costs and ensure compliance with federal labor laws.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the procurement of commercial equipment with ancillary installation services, specifically to replace and install four (4) mixing valves in the domestic hot water system at VAPAHCS Palo Alto. The acquisition is a total Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside on the open market.

• Replace and install four (4) Armstrong DRV80 digital recirculation valves or equivalent.

• Provide all necessary personnel, equipment, tools, materials, supervision, and services.

• Perform work to industry standards and comply with applicable codes and regulations (HCSM, OSHA, Lock-out/Tag-out, NFPA, etc.).

• Provide operation and maintenance instructions and manufacturer documentation upon project completion.

• Worksite cleanup and debris disposal.

• A 365-day warranty on all work and installed valves, commencing after successful installation and testing.

• Contractor must possess a C-36 Plumbing Contractor License.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: 60 calendar days from the date of award.

• Estimated Value: Not explicitly stated, but Block 9 indicates $19 Million.

• Offers are due by 12:00 PM PDT on May 6, 2026.

• Quotes must include a completed and signed SF1449 and VAAR 852.219-76 Certificate of Compliance.

• All offerors must be registered in SAM.gov and certified SDVOSBs in SBA's certification database.

• Award will be based on price only.

• Questions/RFIs must be submitted via email by April 22, 2026.

• Total SDVOSB set-aside.

• NAICS Code: 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air-Conditioning Contractors).

• Size Standard: $19 Million.

• A pre-quote site visit is scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 09:30 AM PDT. This is the only scheduled site visit.

• Attachments include Salient Characteristics, Valve Data Plate Picture, Wage Determination, Specification Section 01 35 26, and RFI Form.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION 01 35 26 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS," outlines the safety standards and procedures that must be adhered to for the opportunity. It details applicable publications, definitions, and specific requirements for safety conferences, meetings, personal protective equipment (PPE), risk assessments, and the control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout).

• Applicable Publications: Lists standards from organizations like ASSP, FGI, NFPA, TJC, US NRC, OSHA, and US Army Corps of Engineers.
• Definitions: Defines terms such as OSHA "Competent Person," "Competent Person, Confined Space," "Competent Person, Cranes and Rigging," and "Medical Treatment."
• Preconstruction Safety Conference: Mandates attendance for contractor representatives to discuss the accident prevention program, incorporated plans, and anticipated hazard analyses (AHAs).
• Safety Meetings: Requires regular safety meetings (monthly for supervisors, weekly for trade workers) with documentation and advance notification to the Contracting Officer.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Specifies mandatory PPE including hard hats, safety glasses, safety shoes, and hearing protection, with provisions for additional PPE determined by the Contracting Officer.
• Pre-Construction Risk Assessment (PCRA): States that PCRAs for construction, renovation, and maintenance projects are included and will be validated/updated.
• Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout): Outlines compliance requirements with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.147 and 1926) and NFPA 70E for installation, maintenance, and servicing of equipment.

Bidders must review this document to understand the comprehensive safety requirements that will be enforced throughout the contract period. Compliance with these safety standards, including the use of specified PPE and adherence to lockout/tagout procedures, is critical for successful contract performance and will likely be a factor in project execution and evaluation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is an image of a data plate for an Armstrong drv80 valve, model number 1696. It provides technical specifications and identification details for the valve.

• Manufacturer: Armstrong
• Model: drv80
• Model Number: 1696
• Maximum Static Pressure: 145 psi
• Ambient Temperature Range: 32-122°F
• Maximum Inlet Temperature: 180°F
• Electrical Rating: 1.5 A, 12V DC
• Manufacturing Origin: Made in England, Kohler Mira Limited
• Certifications: CSA US

This data plate provides specific technical details about a component (valve) that may be relevant for bidders to understand the equipment specifications, operational limits, and potential compatibility requirements for the opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, titled "Brand Name or Equal Worksheet ('Salient Characteristics') v 2.0", outlines the specific characteristics and requirements for a "Armstrong DRV80 Digital Recirculation Valve" that the government is considering. It serves as a basis for defining a "Brand Name or Equal" item, meaning potential bidders can propose equivalent products that meet these detailed specifications.

• Model: Armstrong DRV80 Digital Recirculation Valve
• Protection: NEMA 3S, IPX4
• Operating Temperatures: Ambient (35°F to 122°F), Hot Water Supply (5°F to 185°F), Cold Water Supply (35.6°F minimum)
• Pressures: Inlet Supply (20 psi minimum to 200 psi maximum)
• Materials: Valve (Stainless Steel), Electronics Module (PC/ABS)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth®, BACnet MSTP, Modbus RTU
• Electrical: 120-240V AC, 3 Amp fuse/breaker requirement
• Configurable Settings: Set Point Range (81°F to 158°F), Thermal Disinfection Programmable range (158°F to 185°F)
• Safety Features: Seven fail-safe cold triggers, programmable over-temp limit
• Certifications: The document certifies that the listed characteristics are essential and do not unduly restrict the acquisition to a single manufacturer.

This document is critical for bidders to understand the precise technical specifications and performance requirements for the recirculation valve. Vendors must ensure their proposed "equal" product meets or exceeds all listed salient characteristics to be considered compliant. It directly informs product selection, proposal content, and technical compliance evaluations.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To Replace and Install four (4) mixing valves in the domestic hot water system located in Building 101 at VAPAHCS Palo Alto.

• Provide all necessary personnel, equipment, tools, materials, and supervision.

• Replace and install four (4) Armstrong DRV80 digital recirculation valves or equivalent.

• Remove and dispose of all replaced parts and old piping.

• Provide operation and maintenance instructions, and manufacturer documentation upon project completion.

• Coordinate work with the appointed COR to minimize impact on residents' activities and noise.

• The project shall be completed within 60 calendar days from the date of award.

• Material order lead time is incorporated into the 60-day period of performance.

• Contractor must possess a C-36 Plumbing Contractor License.

• Adhere to all applicable Federal, State, and local environmental/occupational safety laws, rules, and regulations, including OSHA and VA guidelines.

• Implement a lock-out/tag-out program.

• Contractor personnel must present a neat appearance, wear distinctive clothing, and obtain required ID badges daily.

• All contractor personnel must check in and out with VA police dispatch.

• A designated point of contact (POC) must be assigned and available on-site.

• Contractor personnel are not considered VA employees.

• Follow VA dress guidelines (no sandals, flip-flops, or open-toe shoes).

• Comply with VA's sexual harassment and drug-free workplace policies.

• Park only in designated areas; smoking is prohibited within or around VAPAHCS facilities.

• Comply with Federal and California State workers' compensation and liability insurance requirements.

• Hold the Government harmless against any loss, cost, damage, or liability.

• Be responsible for all damages to property.

• Not accept instructions from anyone other than the CO or COR.

• Submit written change requests for any non-contractual services.

• Respond promptly to complaints within 3 working days and maintain a written record.

• No advance payments will be authorized; payment upon submission of a properly prepared invoice.

• RFI and Submittal Response Times will be 5 days after submittals.

• Adhere to strict security requirements regarding information and information system security, including data breach notification and signing VA's Rules of Behavior.

• Training: All contractor employees must complete VHA-provided records management training.

• Flow down requirements to subcontractors.

• All work will be warranted by the contracted installer for 365 days after completion and testing of the mixing valves.

• If mixing valves do not function or leak, the contractor will replace the affected valve(s) with a new one.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a pre-solicitation announcement for the "Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements" project at the VA Palo Alto Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA. The requirement includes supply with incidental installation.

• Replacement of mixing valves in Building 101.

• Supply and installation services.

• Project duration is approximately 60 calendar days After Receipt of Order (ARO).

• This will be solicited as a Request for Quote (RFQ).

• Evaluation will be price only.

• Solicitation documents will be available on or about March 30, 2026.

• Proposals will only be requested and accepted from certified SDVOSB contractors.

• Contractors must be registered in SAM.GOV and SBA's VETCERT at the time of offer submission and prior to award.

• This requirement is a total set-aside for eligible Small, Disadvantaged, Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBC).

• The applicable NAICS Code is 238220 (Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Contractors) with a small business size standard of $19 Million.

• Questions should be submitted in writing to David.Rovner@va.gov and cc: Charee.harris@va.gov.

• An SOW and Specifications document is attached.

Sources Sought Notice

This notice is for market research to determine industry capability for Bldg. 101 Mixing Valve Replacements at the VA Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS). It is not a solicitation, but an inquiry to identify potential sources and their qualifications.

The primary requirement is the replacement of mixing valves in Bldg. 101. Specific quantities and detailed descriptions are available in the attached Statement of Work (SOW).

The proposed contract will be a Firm Fixed Price contract.

Potential contractors must submit a non-binding statement of interest and documentation demonstrating capability. Responses should be emailed to david.rovner@va.gov and cc: charee.harris@va.gov with a specific subject line.

This Sources Sought is to identify qualified sources and their size classifications relative to NAICS code 238220 (size standard $19 Million). The VA is interested in understanding capabilities from Service Disabled/Veteran Owned Small Business (SD/VOSB), Hub zone, 8(a), small, small disadvantaged, woman owned small business, or large businesses.

• Company Name

• Point of Contact (POC) name, Email, Phone number

• Unique Entity ID (UEI) No.

• Business Size classification for NAICS 238220

• Confirmation of ability to comply with VAAR 852.219-76 if a SDVOSB/VOSB set-aside is issued

• Indication of customary commercial practices

• GSA Federal-Supply-Schedule contract details (if applicable)

• Manufacturer name and country of origin (if applicable)

• Authorized Distributorship Letter (if not the manufacturer)

• Material order lead times for supplies

• Country of manufacture for each supply item

• The response date is March 20, 2026, 12:00 PM Pacific Time.

• A Statement of Work (SOW) is attached for detailed requirements.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

To Replace and Install (4) mixing valves in the domestic hot water system located in Bldg. 101 at VAPAHCS Palo Alto.

• Replace and install (4) mixing valves in the domestic hot water system.

• Remove and dispose of all replaced parts and old piping.

• Provide operation and maintenance instructions, and manufacturer documentation.

• Provide daily cleanup and securing of the work site.

• Work must be completed within 60 calendar days from the date of award.

• Work must be coordinated with the appointed COR to minimize impact on residents' activities and noise.

• Contractor must provide quality control of all work conducted.

• Period of Performance: 60 calendar days from the date of award.

• Place of Performance: Bldg. 101 at VAPAHCS Palo Alto, 3801 Miranda Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304.

• Contractor must have a C-36 Plumbing Contractor License.

• Contractor and personnel must comply with all VA, local, state, and federal environmental/occupational safety laws, rules, and regulations, including OSHA and VA guidelines.

• Contractor employees must present a neat appearance, wear distinctive clothing, and obtain required ID badges.

• Contractor personnel must check in and out with VA police dispatch.

• Contractor must assign a point of contact (POC) available on-site.

• Contractor personnel are not considered VA employees.

• Contractor must comply with Federal and California State workers compensation and liability insurance requirements.

• Contractor must provide specific submittals/insurance as required.

• Contractor must follow specific invoice requirements and payment terms.

• Contractor must adhere to security requirements, including data breach notification and signing VA's Rules of Behavior.

• Contractor must incorporate specific clauses into subcontracts.

• Warranty: All work will be warranted by the contracted installer for 365 days after the mixing valve installations are completed and tested. If mixing valves do not function or leak, the contractor will replace them.