Y1EZ--762-24-700 | Construct EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades | Tucson, AZ CMOP |

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document is a "Technical Questions and Responses Tracking Sheet" for the "762-24-700 EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades" project. It compiles questions from contractors and provides responses from the VA.

• Distance from Service Equipment to Primary Bonding Busbar: Varies per cabinet; can be approximated on sheet T-103.
• Ground Wire Conduit: Not required for the ground wire from service equipment to the primary bonding busbar.
• Existing Distribution Panel "DP-UPS": Identified as a Square D NF panelboard.
• Existing Fire Alarm System Manufacturer: Edwards EST Model IO 1000.
• Existing Access Control System: New equipment must match and be compatible with existing Software House CCURE 9000, v3.00.2 PACS.
• Existing CCTV System: New equipment must match and be compatible with existing Genetec Security Center, v5.12 VSS. Contractor must include all equipment, cabling, pathways, programming, and licensing for a turn-key expansion.
• Armored Fiber: Not acceptable in lieu of installation in conduit.
• Project Tax Exempt: Follow requirements outlined in the solicitation.
• Relocation of Equipment: Contractor is responsible for relocating infrastructure (equipment, servers, switches, cabling) in coordination with COR and OIT.
• Sheet G-401 Behavior: The sheet contains an embedded PDF of an existing plan, causing potential rendering delays in Bluebeam; no reissue is required.
• Work Hours: Standard working hours are first and second shifts. Off-hours are defined as weekends. Work impacting operations must be performed on weekends and fully restored one hour prior to production activities.
• SSHO and Superintendent/QC Roles: SSHO must be a separate individual from the Superintendent and/or QC Manager. CQC System Manager reports to the Superintendent.
• Hazardous Materials: No known hazardous materials are within the project areas, per attached report.
• Existing Steel Joists: Joists supporting new CRAC units require reinforcement per structural drawings.
• Fire-Rated Walls: Existing rated walls are based on visual inspection; contractor is responsible for field verification of existing conditions and ensuring fire-resistance ratings.
• Fire-Retardant Paint: Required for fire-rated plywood backboards per ISTS Version 4.0; contractor selects paint meeting criteria and submits for review.
• Shunt Trip: Required to interlock with the clean agent suppression system.
• Controls: New controls must be compatible with JCI Metasys.
• Data Center Structural Ceiling Grid: DynaMax by Armstrong is basis of design; substitutions reviewed per standard submittal process after award.
• Guaranty Period Services: Clarifications provided regarding intent, administration, pricing, and scope of coverage for the five-year guaranty period.
• UPS Systems: Existing UPS-A (200kVA) is being demolished; new UPS-A in server room is 60kW.
• ICRA Level: ICRA Level 3 required, based on facility type and construction activity risk level.
• Fiber Pathways: New primary and secondary pathways for new equipment cabinets are intended; existing pathways are not to be reused.
• Clean Agent System: Cylinders are mandatory; prescriptive bid requirements apply.
• Firestopping: Must be installed by an FM global approved or UL qualified firestop contractor.

This document provides critical clarifications and details that bidders must consider when preparing their proposals, particularly regarding existing conditions, material compatibility, specific system requirements, personnel qualifications, and work procedures. It addresses ambiguities and confirms details related to various project components, including electrical, fire alarm, security, IT infrastructure, and structural elements.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment modifies solicitation 36C77626B0010, originally dated 03-24-2026.

Key changes include:

• Providing responses to vendor questions (Att. 1 - Technical Questions Tracker).
• Supplying supplemental reports and updates related to asbestos and lead-based paint (Att. 2 - Asbestos Roof Sampling Supplemental Report, Att. 3 - Limited Asbestos and LBP Survey Update R1).
• Including photos of the contractor space (Att. 4 - 762-24-700 EHRM Contractor Space).
• Adding a specification for special inspections (Att. 5 - 01 45 35).
• Providing photos from the pre-bid site visit (Att. 6 - 762-24-700 EHRM Photos).
• Including a template for the Statement of Special Inspections (Att. 7 - Section 01 45 35 Statement of Special Inspections Template).

Several attachments have been added or updated, providing detailed technical information, survey results, and site-specific documentation.

• The submission deadline for offers has been extended to May 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a template for the Statement of Special Inspections, which is a requirement for projects with specific seismic and wind design considerations. It outlines the necessary inspections and certifications for various structural and non-structural elements to ensure compliance with building codes and project specifications.

• Project Information: Details such as project name, location, and project number.
• Seismic and Wind Design Data: Project Seismic Design Category, Risk Category, and Design Wind Speed.
• Special Inspector of Record (SIOR) Determination: Criteria for determining if an SIOR is required and fields for SIOR contact information.
• Lateral Force Resisting System (LFRS) Identification: Lists vertical and horizontal LFRS elements requiring inspection.
• Designated Seismic Systems (DSS): Identifies electrical, mechanical/plumbing, and other DSS that require manufacturer certification and special inspection.
• Final Walk Down Inspection and Report: Requirements for the final inspection and report by the Registered Design Professional.

Bidders should review this document to understand the rigorous inspection and certification requirements related to structural integrity, seismic resistance, and the operability of critical systems post-earthquake. This impacts the scope of work for any contractor involved in construction and may require specific submittals and coordination with the Special Inspector of Record and the Registered Design Professional. The document also mandates the completion and appending of a 'Schedule of Special Inspections Template'.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains images and associated OCR text related to electrical panels and telephone enclosures on a production floor. It appears to be supplementary material for an opportunity record, likely providing visual context for the physical infrastructure involved.

• Images of "Typical Telephone Enclosure on Production Floor"
• Images and details of "Panel M3 on Production Floor", including its specifications (277/480V, 3PH, 4W, 400A) and a panel schedule.
• Images and details of "Panel DP-UPS on Production Floor", including its specifications (480V, 3PH-3WIRE, 100A main).
• Images of "Typical Telephone Enclosure Connections and Cable Trays on Production Floor".
• An image of a "Wall on Production Floor opposite the Server Room" showing conduit and electrical boxes.

This attachment provides visual documentation of the existing electrical infrastructure and network enclosures. Bidders may use this information to understand the physical environment, assess potential installation challenges, or verify compatibility with proposed solutions for any opportunity related to this infrastructure.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION 01 45 35 SPECIAL INSPECTIONS," outlines the requirements for special inspections and structural observations during construction. It details the scope, applicable publications, general requirements, definitions, and responsibilities related to special inspections.

• Scope: Applicable to new buildings and existing building rehabilitations/renovations.
• Structural Observations: Required for specific project conditions related to seismic design categories, building height, and wind speed.
• Applicable Publications: References standards from ASCE and ICC.
• General Requirements: Outlines the performance of Special Inspections in accordance with specified documents and codes.
• Definitions: Clarifies terms such as Continuous Special Inspections, Periodic Special Inspections, Special Inspector (SI), Associate Special Inspector (ASI), and Special Inspector of Record (SIOR).
• Responsibilities Matrix: Details the duties of the SIOR, QC Manager, and Special Inspectors.
• Qualifications: Specifies the required certifications and experience for Special Inspectors, Associate Special Inspectors, and SIORs across various construction areas (e.g., steel construction, welding, concrete, masonry, wood, fireproofing).
• Fabricator Special Inspection: Outlines requirements for inspecting fabricator's work and acceptable certifications for fabricator approval.

This document is crucial for bidders as it defines the quality assurance and inspection protocols that will be enforced during construction. Understanding these requirements is essential for:

• Compliance: Ensuring that all proposed construction methods and materials will meet the specified inspection and observation standards.
• Cost Estimation: Factoring in the potential costs associated with special inspections, which may be borne by the contractor.
• Project Management: Planning for the coordination and scheduling of required inspections and the qualifications of personnel needed to perform them.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides a map and site-specific instructions for contractor operations related to the "762-24-700 EHRM INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES AT TUCSON CMOP" opportunity. It outlines the designated area for contractor storage, toilet, office, and dumpster.

• Designated Contractor Space: A specific area on the north side of the CMOP building is marked with a blue box, indicating where contractor storage, toilet, office, and dumpster may be placed.
• Parking Restrictions: Contractor vehicles must be parked off-site, in an alternative lot, or on the street. On-site parking is not permitted.
• Access Requirements: The contractor must ensure the egress door and truck lane remain clear at all times.
• Security Responsibility: The contractor is responsible for security within their designated area and operations.

This attachment is crucial for bidders to understand the physical site constraints and operational requirements for performing work at the Tucson CMOP. It clarifies where contractor support facilities can be located and emphasizes the need to maintain clear access routes and off-site parking for vehicles, directly impacting logistical planning and site management for any awarded contract.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "Limited Asbestos Survey, Lead Based Paint Screening and Update to a Previous Inspection Revision 1" report. It details the findings of an environmental assessment conducted at the Veterans Affairs Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy in Tucson, Arizona.

• Sampling Location: Veterans Affairs Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy, 3675 East Britannia Drive, Tucson, AZ 85706.
• Date of Report: April 22, 2025.
• Scope: Limited asbestos-containing material (ACM) survey and update to previous inspections, and Lead Based Paint (LBP) screening, focusing on materials that may be disturbed during EHRM Infrastructure upgrades.
• Methodology: Samples collected in accordance with EPA AHERA sampling protocols. LBP screening conducted using X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
• Findings:
  • Asbestos: No asbestos was identified in the majority of samples. However, asbestos-containing mirror mastic was identified in previous reports and some is still present on site. Certain materials (roofing, new ceramic tiles) were assumed to be asbestos as per the building owner's direction not to sample them. Several other materials were assumed to be asbestos-containing as the building owner did not want them disturbed and indicated they would not be disturbed during the EHRM project.
  • Lead Based Paint: LBP was not detected in the painted surfaces tested by XRF.
• Appendices: Include sampling summary tables, sample location diagrams, laboratory analytical data, licenses and certifications, and previous reports.

This document provides critical environmental information regarding potential asbestos and lead-based paint hazards at the project site. Bidders involved in renovation or construction activities at this facility should review this report to understand the presence and location of any identified ACM and LBP, and to inform their safety protocols and cost estimations for work that may disturb these materials.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a supplemental report detailing additional asbestos roof sampling conducted at the Veteran Affairs Consolidated Outpatient Pharmacy. It supplements a previous survey and provides updated findings.

• Sampling Date: May 19, 2025
• Location: Veteran Affairs Consolidated Outpatient Pharmacy, 3675 East Britannia, Tucson, Arizona.
• Sampling Personnel: Mr. Gabriel Baca, an EPA-certified AHERA Building Inspector.
• Samples Collected: Three (3) bulk samples from one homogeneous area (HA) of the roof.
• Laboratory Analysis: Samples were submitted to Cates Laboratories, accredited by NIST under NVLAP.
• Analytical Method: Polarized Light Microscopy/Dispersion Staining (PLM/DS), EPA Method 600/R-93/116.
• Results: All three samples (01A, 01B, 01C) were analyzed and found to be non-detect for asbestos. Therefore, they are not considered Asbestos Containing Material (ACM).
• Accreditation: Includes certifications for the inspector (Gabriel Baca) and the laboratory (Cates Laboratories).

This report provides critical environmental information regarding the condition of the roof at the specified facility. Bidders involved in renovation, repair, or construction activities at this site should review these findings to understand the absence of asbestos in the sampled roof materials. This information is relevant for compliance with environmental regulations and for planning work activities.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is FAR Clause 52.222-90, "Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors," dated April 2026. It outlines the government's requirements regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities for federal contractors.

• Definitions: Clarifies terms such as "Program participation" and "Racially discriminatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities."
• Contractor Obligations: Requires contractors to:
  • Not engage in racially discriminatory DEI activities.
  • Furnish all requested information and reports to the Contracting Officer for compliance verification.
  • Report any known or reasonably knowable subcontractor conduct violating the clause to the Contracting Officer and take remedial actions.
  • Inform the Contracting Officer if a subcontractor sues the Contractor regarding the validity of this clause.
• Consequences of Noncompliance: States that noncompliance may result in contract cancellation, termination, suspension, and ineligibility for future Government contracts.
• Subcontracting: Mandates that contractors include the substance of this clause in subcontracts at any tier, including those for commercial products and services, unless performance is outside the United States.
• Materiality: Recognizes compliance with this clause as material to the Government's payment decisions.

Bidders must understand and be prepared to comply with these requirements as a condition of performing work under a Government contract. This clause impacts how contractors manage their DEI initiatives and their obligations concerning subcontractors.

Amendment / Modification

• This amendment adds Clause 52.222-90, "ADDRESSING DEI DISCRIMINATION BY FEDERAL CONTRACTORS - APR 2026", to the solicitation.

• Clause 52.222-90 is added as an attachment.

• All other terms and conditions remain unchanged. No impact on proposal deadlines or submission rules is indicated beyond the inclusion of the new clause.

Amendment / Modification

• The receipt of bids date has been extended.

• Solicitation Number: 36C77626B0010

• Original Solicitation Date: 03-24-2026

• The deadline for receipt of offers is extended to May 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM Eastern Time.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (Number 0002, effective 04-08-2026) modifies solicitation 36C77626B0010, originally dated 03-24-2026.

Key changes include:

• Providing the Site Visit Sign-in Sheet as Attachment 01.

• Providing an addendum to the Specifications as Attachment 02.

• Specifications (updated via Attachment 02)

No changes to proposal deadlines or submission requirements are indicated, but bidders should review the provided attachments for updated specifications and site visit information.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a sign-in sheet for a pre-bid site visit for the VA Tucson CMOP 762-24-700 EHRM opportunity. It records the names, companies, email addresses, and phone numbers of attendees.

• Attendee Name
• Company/Title
• Email Address
• Phone Number

This document indicates which companies and individuals attended the pre-bid site visit. This information can be useful for understanding potential competition and for networking purposes within the industry related to this opportunity.

Amendment / Modification

This document revises and replaces previously issued sections related to the EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades project at Tucson CMOP, AZ (Project Number: 762-24-700).

Specifically, it replaces:

• Section 013216.15, Project Schedules (Small Projects-Design/Bid/Build) dated 01-24 with a new section dated 12-25.

• The Table of Contents.

• The Submittal Log.

• Section 000110, Table of Contents

• Section 013216.15, Project Schedules (Small Projects-Design/Bid/Build)

• Submittal Log

This amendment updates project scheduling requirements and associated documentation. Bidders should refer to the revised Section 013216.15 for updated project schedule requirements, including initial schedule submission, baseline schedule, monthly updates, and revised schedules. The revised Table of Contents and Submittal Log should also be consulted for updated project information and submission procedures.

Amendment / Modification

• The time zone for the site visit has been amended.

• The site visit details.

• The site visit will be conducted on April 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM Pacific Time.

Specifications / Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains detailed specifications for the EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades project at the Tucson CMOP (Project Number 762-24-700), encompassing both general construction requirements and specific technical details for electronic safety and security systems. It outlines requirements for various construction divisions, including demolition, metals, wood, thermal protection, openings, finishes, specialties, fire suppression, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems.

Key specifications for electronic safety and security systems cover:

• General Infrastructure: Conduits, backboxes, wiring (UTP, coaxial, RS-485, low-voltage control, fire alarm), grounding and bonding for electronic systems, and surge protection devices (SPDs).
• Intrusion Detection System (IDS): Control panels, sensors, tamper switches, and power supplies.
• Video Surveillance System (VASS): Cameras, lenses, housings, servers, recording devices, and video management systems.
• Physical Access Control System (PACS): Servers, workstations, software, controllers, readers, and credentials.
• Fire Detection and Alarm System: Initiating devices, notification appliances, and control units.
• Installation and Testing: General requirements for installation, testing, commissioning, demonstrations, and training.

This document is critical for bidders as it provides comprehensive technical specifications for materials, installation methods, quality assurance, and testing for numerous building systems, with a particular focus on electronic safety and security. Bidders must review all relevant sections to understand the precise requirements, standards (UL, NFPA, TIA/EIA, BICSI, FIPS), and materials necessary for accurate bidding, proposal development, and successful project execution. Attention to component compatibility, performance criteria, environmental conditions, and installation practices is essential for compliance and project acceptance.

Amendment / Modification

This document is a revised specification section (Section 28 31 00, Fire Detection and Alarm) dated March 9, 2026. The primary change is the removal of Guaranty Period Service, paragraph 1.6, per Owner request.

• Section 28 31 00, Fire Detection and Alarm
• Paragraph 1.6, Guaranty Period Service (removed)

This amendment primarily affects the contract terms regarding the guaranty period. It does not appear to alter technical requirements or submission deadlines for proposals.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "SECTION 01 31 00.01 PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND COORDINATION," outlines the administrative provisions for coordinating construction operations on a project. It details the requirements for a web-based project management software package.

• Web-based Project Management Software: Contractors must provide, administer, and use a web-based software package for managing project communication and documentation until project completion. Examples include Procore or Oracle Primavera Submittal Exchange.
• Software Features: The software must include features for compiling project data, managing access control for different entities, customizing workflows, tracking communications (RFIs, submittals, change orders), handling PDF markups with security, processing payment applications and contract modifications, creating meeting minutes, managing drawings and revisions, and handling construction progress photographs. Mobile device compatibility is also required.
• Training and Licenses: The contractor must provide user licenses for the Owner, Architect, and their consultants, along with eight hours of training for the software.
• Project Completion Deliverables: At project completion, a digital archive in a readable format, locked to prevent further changes, must be provided.

This document specifies a mandatory requirement for a project management software system. Bidders need to understand the scope of this system, the required features, training obligations, and deliverables to accurately estimate costs and ensure compliance with project management protocols. It highlights the importance of digital communication and documentation management throughout the project lifecycle.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is the VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting—Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction (JAN 2023)(DEVIATION). It requires offerors to certify their compliance with subcontracting limitations if awarded a contract.

• For general construction contracts, the contractor must ensure that no more than 85% of the amount paid by the government is paid to firms that are not certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) or Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs).
• Work further subcontracted by a similarly situated certified SDVOSB/VOSB subcontractor counts towards the 85% limit.
• Costs of materials are excluded from this calculation.
• The certification is subject to penalties under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, for false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements.
• Offerors must acknowledge that the VA may require documentation to verify compliance during and after contract performance.
• The form includes a certification section that must be completed, signed, and returned with the offeror's bid, quotation, or proposal.

This document is critical for bidders to understand and comply with. Failure to complete and submit this certification will result in the offer being deemed ineligible for award. Bidders must ensure their proposed subcontracting plan adheres to the 85% limitation for non-SDVOSB/VOSB firms in general construction contracts.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "General Decision" which provides prevailing wage rates for building construction projects in Pima County, Arizona. It is intended to inform bidders of the minimum wage rates that must be paid to various laborers and mechanics employed on covered federal or federally funded construction projects.

• General Decision Number: AZ20260040
• Superseded Decision Number: AZ20250040
• State: Arizona
• County: Pima County
• Construction Type: Building (does not include single-family homes or apartments up to and including 4 stories).
• Effective Date: 01/02/2026
• Wage Rates: Lists specific hourly rates and fringe benefits for various trades, including Bricklayer, Carpenter, Electrician, Power Equipment Operator, Ironworker, Pipefitter, Sheet Metal Worker, Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher, Drywall Finisher/Taper, Laborer, Operator (Backhoe/Excavator/Trackhoe, Loader, Roller), Painter, Plumber, and Tile Setter.
• Executive Order 13706: Notes that this EO regarding Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors applies to contracts awarded on or after January 1, 2017, requiring contractors to provide 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked.
• Executive Order 13658: Notes applicability to contracts awarded between January 1, 2015, and January 29, 2022, establishing a minimum wage rate of $13.30 per hour (or the applicable wage rate if higher) for hours spent performing on the contract in 2025.
• Appeals Process: Outlines the process for appealing wage determination decisions.

Bidders must review these wage rates to accurately estimate labor costs for their proposals. Failure to comply with these prevailing wage requirements can lead to contract violations. The document specifies the types of construction covered and provides details on how to interpret the wage classifications and identifiers.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document package contains the "Final Bid Documents" for the Tucson CMOP EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades project (VA Project No. 762-24-700), comprising detailed drawings and specifications essential for bidding and construction. It includes architectural, structural, fire alarm, fire suppression, mechanical, and electrical plans.

• Architectural & Structural: Demolition and new work plans, elevations, sections, details, phasing plans, UL assemblies, ICRA guidelines, life safety plans, and structural notes.
• Fire Protection: Fire alarm system details (wiring, mounting, notes), fire stopping, clean agent and sprinkler system details.
• Mechanical (HVAC): Demolition and new work plans for CRAC units, heat pumps, ductwork, refrigerant piping, and equipment schedules.
• Electrical: Floor plans, one-line diagrams, panel schedules, equipment connection schedules, telecommunications drawings, general notes, and legends.
• Control Diagrams: Sequences of operation for CRAC units, exhaust fans, UPS systems, and points lists.

This comprehensive set of drawings and specifications is critical for bidders to understand the full scope of the EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades project. It provides detailed information on demolition, new construction, finishes, structural modifications, fire alarm and suppression systems, HVAC, electrical distribution, and telecommunications. Bidders must thoroughly review all included documents to comprehend project requirements, phasing, safety protocols, and technical specifications for accurate bidding and project execution.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for a competitive Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside procurement for "EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades" at the Consolidated Mail Outpatient Pharmacy (CMOP) in Tucson, AZ. The project involves general construction, site preparation, demolition, and removal of existing structures.

• Provide all labor, materials, tools, equipment, expertise, administration, supervision, and transportation necessary to perform the work.

• Work must be in accordance with provided construction specifications, drawings, and all other contract documents.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Magnitude of Construction: Estimated between $5,000,000 and $10,000,000.

• Period of Performance: 10 calendar days to begin after notice to proceed, with a completion time of 414 calendar days.

• Proposal Submission: Bids must be submitted via email to amy.graham@va.gov and scott.elias@va.gov by April 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.

• Bid Opening: Will be conducted via teleconference.

• Evaluation Criteria: Award will be made to the responsible bidder whose bid is conforming and most advantageous to the government, considering only price. The low price will be evaluated for fairness and reasonableness.

• Key Deadlines:

  • Questions Cut-off: April 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.
  • Bid Submission Deadline: April 27, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.

• Site Visit: Mandatory for potential bidders on April 7, 2026, at 0900 MST at the CMOP facility.

• This procurement is a 100% set-aside for SDVOSB concerns. Offers from non-SDVOSBs will not be considered.

• SDVOSBs must be certified in the SBA's VetCert database at the time of bid submission and award.

• Bidders must acknowledge all amendments.

• A bid guarantee is required (20% of bid price, not to exceed $3,000,000).

• Payment and Performance Bonds are required within 15 calendar days after award.

• Offerors must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).