Z1DA--Remodel Building 1, Marion 610-21-101

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document contains responses to Requests for Information (RFIs) submitted by potential bidders regarding the "Remodel Building 1" project at the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System.

• Project Duration Discrepancy: Specification Section 01 00 00 states an "Estimated Project Duration" of 360 days, while the Solicitation indicates 610 days. The Government will verify the contract duration.
• Award and NTP Timeline: The approximate duration between award and issuance of the Notice to Proceed (NTP) is 7-10 days, subject to change.
• Anticipated Award Date: The anticipated award date is April of 2026, subject to change.
• ADA Warning Pads: ADA warning pads are required at sidewalk connections to street/parking lots, as indicated in CS101 Civil Site Plan North, CI101.
• Tree Removal: Removal of 2 additional trees due to potential insect damage is referenced to CD101 Civil Demolition Plan North and CS101 Civil Site Plan North for SOW regarding landscaping.
• Sidewalk Repair: Repair of damaged sidewalk (approx. 500 SF with surface cracking or heaving) is referenced to CD101 Civil Demolition Plan North and CS101 Civil Site Plan North for SOW.
• Roof Decking: The roof structure is to remain as noted in the Construction Documents (AD103, AD400 series, and Existing to Remain notes). No remediation is required for apparent water damage.
• CAT6A Requirement: CAT6A requirements are detailed in Division 27, specification section 27 15 00, and drawing EY201.
• Nurse Call System: There are no nurse-call requirements for this project.
• Seismic Bracing: Seismic bracing for pipe and systems is not required.
• Expansion Joints: Expansion joints are present at new columns, as noted in AS100.
• AISC Certification: AISC (American Iron and Steel Certification) is required for structural steel fabrication and/or erection, per section 051200 1.5A.
• SWPPP Plan: An SWPPP permit is not required as the area of disturbance is under one acre.
• Fire Alarm System: A campus-wide fire alarm system manufactured by Siemens is in place. Building 1 components will need to be Siemens and may connect to the network from the new building FACP; VA will verify connections. Section 283100, 3.2 covers the sequence of operation.
• Fire Alarm PC and Printer: A global PC in security exists; a second PC for this project is not necessary. The fire alarm system is network-based, and Building 1 components must be Siemens.
• Spare Parts Cabinet: Model and size will be determined during the Submittal process.
• Exterior Walls: The existing structure has full-height multi-wythe brick bearing walls. North and south walls are generally load-bearing with existing wood joists pocketed into the walls. East and west exterior walls are generally non-load bearing, and joists run parallel to walls.
• Fire Extinguisher Cabinets/Hooks: Refer to life safety plans G1007, GI008, GI009.
• Window Finish: Window finish and interior break metal trim shall be White; final finish will be selected by VA during the Submittal process.
• As-Built Drawings: The VA will provide available documents; some are digital, but many are located in Building 52, second floor, engineering department flat files.
• Seasonal Influenza Vaccination: Vaccination is not required, but unvaccinated individuals must follow face mask requirements and comply with masking mandates.
• Scheduling Software: Microsoft Projects is preferred but not required. Schedules must include a cost-loaded schedule and be viewable by the VA COR.
• Commissioning Agent: The VA/AE is not responsible for providing a Commissioning Agent.
• Tax Exemption: The VA will provide a Tax Exemption Certificate to the awardee.
• Temporary Utilities: The contractor can use existing on-site utilities for temporary electrical and water free of charge, with COR coordination for trailer locations and availability.
• Noise and Vibration: Refer to Specifications Temporary Environmental Controls 01 57 19, 1.5,F for guidance.
• Geotechnical Report: The GeoTech report GME Testing Project G20-100423 is attached.
• Window Replacement: Contractor shall review Specifications, AD100 series & AD400 series / Architectural Demolition drawings, AS100 series, AS400 series, and AS702 to determine window quantities and types.
• Concrete Columns: Contractor shall review Contract Documents, Structural Drawings SB100 and AS100 series to determine new work.
• Revit Model: A Revit Model will be provided.

These clarifications and answers address specific questions from potential bidders, impacting their understanding of project requirements, materials, and procedures. Bidders should review these responses to ensure their proposals align with the clarified information.

Amendment / Modification

• Extends the bid submission deadline to February 26, 2026, at 9 AM EST.

• Postpones the public bid opening to one hour after the bid submission deadline, now scheduled for February 26, 2026, at 10 AM EST.

• Provides RFI (Request for Information) Questions and Answers.

• Details bid opening call-in information (conference call number and code).

• Item 11 of the SF1442 (Solicitation) regarding the hour and date for receipt of Offers.

• Bid submission deadline and bid opening time.

• The deadline for bid submissions has been extended to February 26, 2026, at 9 AM EST.

• The bid opening will now occur virtually on February 26, 2026, at 10 AM EST via conference call.

Amendment / Modification

• The solicitation's bid opening date and time have been extended.

• An updated Wage Determination is attached.

• A virtual bid opening will be held one hour after the new bid due date/time.

• RFI responses and call-in information for the bid opening will be posted as soon as capable.

• RFIs submitted after January 14th will not be accepted.

• Item 11: "THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS" section has been updated to reflect the extended hour and date for receipt of offers.

• The "DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION" section details the updated Wage Determination and extended bid opening.

• The deadline for submitting offers has been extended to 02-23-2026 at 9 AM EST.

• The bid opening will now occur on 02-23-2026 at 10 AM EST (one hour after the new bid due date/time).

Other / Unclassified

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) for Indiana, specifically for Building Construction. It lists prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various trades across numerous counties in Indiana. The document is updated periodically, with the latest superseding decision dated 01/30/2026.

This document is crucial for any bidder responding to a solicitation that requires adherence to prevailing wage rates for construction projects in Indiana. It provides the legally mandated minimum wage and fringe benefit rates for different labor classifications (e.g., Asbestos Worker, Boiler Maker, Bricklayer, Carpenter, Electrician, Elevator Mechanic, Engineer, Ironworker, Laborer, Painter, Plasterer, Plumber, Roofer, Sheet Metal Worker, Sprinkler Fitter, Truck Driver, Welder). Bidders must ensure their proposed labor costs align with these rates to comply with labor standards regulations. The document is organized by trade and then by county or region, allowing bidders to identify the specific rates applicable to their project's location.

Amendment / Modification

• The purpose of this amendment is to provide the Geotechnical Report and extend the Bid Opening.

• The Bid Opening has been changed to Monday, February 9th, at 9 AM.

• RFI Responses and call-in information for the Bid Opening will be posted as soon as capable.

• The deadline for receipt of offers has been extended.

• The Bid Opening date and time have been changed.

• The bid opening has been extended to Monday, February 9th, at 9 AM.

• Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the new hour and date specified.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a geotechnical report providing subsurface exploration and recommendations for the proposed remodel of Buildings #1 and 3 at the Marion VA Hospital in Marion, Indiana. It details the findings of soil test borings, laboratory testing, and geotechnical engineering analysis to provide parameters for design engineers.

• Site Conditions: Description of existing buildings (approx. 16,000 sq ft each, 1880s construction, brick veneer) and surrounding developed areas.
• Project Description: Interior remodel involving replacement of structural wood floor systems with new steel and concrete floor systems.
• Subsurface Conditions: Results from four vertical soil test borings (two per building) to a depth of approximately 30 feet, detailing soil types (clay, silt, sand, gravel), fill materials, and groundwater levels.
• Geotechnical Evaluation & Recommendations: Preliminary estimated soil properties, including coefficient of sliding friction, moist soil unit weight, and soil bearing pressure. Recommends a helical piers system to underpin existing foundations due to anticipated increased loadings and variable soil conditions.
• Seismicity: Site classification (D - Stiff Soil) and seismic design parameters based on IBC-2012.
• Backfill Recommendations: Guidelines for soil replacement or grade-raise fill, including compaction and moisture content requirements.
• Limitations: Outlines the scope of the report and disclaimers regarding subsurface variations and environmental assessments.

This report is crucial for bidders to understand the subsurface soil and groundwater conditions at the project site. The findings directly impact foundation design, potential construction challenges, and the recommended underpinning system (helical piers), which will influence bidding and project planning. Bidders should review the soil profiles, bearing capacities, and seismic data to accurately estimate costs and timelines.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a site-walk attendance record for the "Remodel Building 1" project at the VA Northern Indiana Healthcare System – Marion Campus. It lists attendees, their companies, phone numbers, and email addresses. The site walk took place on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 A.M.

This record indicates which companies and individuals attended the site walk for this project. Potential bidders can use this information to understand which competitors or subcontractors may have been present, and to potentially network or gather market intelligence. It does not contain technical specifications or contractual requirements but serves as a record of engagement with the opportunity.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment provides a copy of the site walk sign-in sheet for the "Remodel Building 1" project.

• Attachment: Site Walk Sign-In Sheet - Remodel Building 1

No changes to proposal deadlines, requirements, or evaluation factors are indicated by this amendment.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Site-Walk Attendance Record for "Remodel Building 1" at the VA Northern Indiana Healthcare System – Marion Campus. It lists attendees, their companies, phone numbers, and email addresses. The site walk took place on Tuesday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 A.M.

This record is relevant to bidders as it indicates which companies and individuals attended the site walk for this project. This can provide insight into potential competitors or subcontractors who have expressed interest in the "Remodel Building 1" opportunity (Project No. 610-21-101, IFB 36C25026B0007).

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the "Remodel Building 1" project at the Department of Veterans Affairs Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion Campus. The project is identified by solicitation number 36C25026B0007 and is associated with NAICS code 236220.

Details regarding specific remodeling tasks, technical requirements, or deliverables are not fully provided in this excerpt. The Product Service Code is Z1DA.

Not specified in the provided text.

• Response Date/Time: January 30, 2026, 9:00 AM Eastern Time, New York, USA.
• Contracting Office: Department of Veterans Affairs, Network Contracting Office 10, 8888 Keystone Crossing, Suite 325, Indianapolis IN 46240.

This opportunity is set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBC).

• Place of Performance: Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion Campus, 1700 E. 38th Street, Marion IN 46953, USA.
• Point of Contact: Elizabeth Finley, Contracting Specialist, Elizabeth.Finley1@va.gov.
• The document is a .docx file (23258 bytes) posted on January 6, 2026.

Other / Unclassified

This document is VHA Directive 1192.01, titled "SEASONAL INFLUENZA VACCINATION PROGRAM FOR VHA HEALTH CARE PERSONNEL." It establishes policy and provides guidance for mandatory seasonal influenza vaccination among health care personnel (HCP) within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

This directive mandates annual influenza vaccination for all VHA HCP, or requires them to obtain an exemption for medical or religious reasons. Compliance is a condition of employment, and non-compliance may result in disciplinary action. The directive outlines responsibilities for various VHA offices and personnel, procedures for vaccination and exemption, documentation requirements, and masking protocols for unvaccinated personnel. It also addresses vaccine shortage contingencies. This document is relevant to potential bidders by informing them of the VHA's commitment to preventing influenza transmission within its facilities and the requirements for personnel involved in any VHA healthcare contracts.

Solicitation

This solicitation is for the Remodel Building 1 project at the VA Northern Indiana Healthcare System, Marion Campus. The project involves remodeling approximately 20,000 square feet to consolidate Social Work, Mental Health Intensive Case Management, Home-Based Primary Care, Intimate Partner Violence, Caregiver Support, and the Homeless Team. The magnitude of construction is estimated between $10,000,000 and $20,000,000.

• Hazardous Material Abatement: Includes attic insulation, ceiling systems, tile and mastic, carpet adhesive, sealants, lead-based paint, and underground site utilities.

• Interior Modifications: Complete demolition of existing interior components, new construction, installation of a new elevator for ADA access.

• Structural Modifications: Construction of a new structural frame within the building envelope, concrete buttress, and engineered helical piers for stabilization.

• Building Improvements: New Fire Alarm, Fire Suppression System, lightning protection, Geothermal heating and cooling system, new electrical systems, and new IT and Security systems.

• Exterior Modifications: Replacement of exterior doors and windows, masonry repair, exterior foundation waterproofing, construction of an ADA accessible concrete ramp, and landscaping replacement.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: Approximately 610 calendar days from receipt of Notice to Proceed (not including furniture delivery).

• Bid Submission: Via email only to elizabeth.finley1@va.gov. Email size must not exceed 15 MB.

• Bid Due Date: January 30, 2026, by 19:00 EST.

• Pre-Bid Site Visit: January 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST. Meeting point: 1700 E. 38th Street, Marion, IN 46953, Building 52, Room 100.

• Request for Information (RFI) Deadline: January 14, 2026, at 10:00 PM EST. Submit RFIs via email to elizabeth.finley1@va.gov.

• Bid Opening: Virtual public bid opening one hour after the bid due date. Details to be provided via amendment.

• Evaluation: Sealed bidding IAW FAR Part 14. All bids will be evaluated without discussions.

• 100% set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs). Only VA-certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA Small Business Search at the time of bid submission and prior to award are eligible.

• NAICS Code: 236220, Size Standard: $45 million.

• Bonds: Bid guarantee required (SF 24). Performance and Payment Bonds (SF 25A, SF 25) required for awards over $35,000 and $150,000 respectively.

• Background Investigations: Required for contractor employees with access to VA Sensitive Information.

• E-Verify: Contractors must enroll in E-Verify within 30 days of award.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "Attachment VII - Specs.pdf", contains comprehensive technical specifications for VA Project No. 610-21-101, "Remodel Building 1," at the Marion VA Medical Center. It serves as the authoritative reference for the opportunity's requirements, detailing standards for materials, workmanship, and administrative procedures for the facility's renovation. It also details specifications for a Security Management System (SMS) and associated hardware/software.

• Project Scope: Includes site preparation, demolition, hazardous material abatement (asbestos, lead-based paint), window replacements, and full interior/exterior renovation. The estimated project duration is 360 days.
• CSI Divisions Covered: Specifications span multiple divisions, including structural steel, roofing systems, doors, windows, and a new hydraulic elevator.
• System Upgrades: Comprehensive mechanical (HVAC), plumbing, fire suppression, electrical, and security system upgrades are required.
• General Requirements: Detailed protocols for safety, quality control, and sustainable construction.
• Infection Control: Strict adherence to VA infection control risk assessment (ICRA) standards is mandatory due to the Medical Center remaining operational.
• Security Management System (SMS): Details required components (PACS, software, databases, controllers), features (alarm monitoring, digital video management, reporting), hardware/software specifications, communication protocols, installation, testing, and integration with other systems (CCTV, IDS).

This attachment is crucial for potential bidders. It defines the technical scope, requirements, and specific compliance obligations. Bidders must review these specifications thoroughly to understand the complex coordination needed within an active medical facility, identify mandatory submittals (e.g., Accident Prevention Plan, Contractor Quality Control Plan), account for specific material standards and testing, and accurately estimate costs for a compliant proposal. Failure to adhere to these specifications could result in a non-compliant bid.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document comprises "Attachment VI - Drawings.pdf", which contains detailed architectural drawings and plans essential for understanding the physical layout, design elements, and specific construction details for the "Remodel Building 1" project at the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System. It also includes hazardous materials plans, life safety information, civil plans, structural details, and signage schedules.

• Architectural Drawings: Detailed plans for various building levels (lower, first, second, attic), including floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, demolition plans, and specific elements like signage, doors, windows, elevators, stairs, and casework.
• Hazardous Materials Plans: Identification and location of asbestos, lead-containing materials, and other hazardous substances.
• Life Safety Plans: Information on fire barriers, smoke zones, and occupant load calculations.
• Civil Plans: Site, grading, and utility demolition plans.
• Structural Drawings: Details on foundations, framing, and demolition of structural elements.
• Construction Details: Specifics for sidewalks, curbs, ramps, retaining walls, and other construction elements.
• Landscape Plan: Information on proposed trees, shrubs, and perennials.
• Plumbing and Electrical Plans: Demolition and installation details for various systems.
• Fire Protection Plans: Outlines sprinkler systems, alarms, and related components.
• Construction Notes & Specifications: Detailed notes and specifications for materials and installation methods.

This comprehensive set of drawings is crucial for bidders to accurately assess the scope of work, understand the existing conditions, technical requirements, and specific construction details. It details demolition areas, structural modifications, hazardous material abatement, and new construction elements, which are essential for accurate bidding, proposal development, and project execution.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a Request for Information (RFI) template used to solicit questions and clarifications from potential bidders regarding an opportunity. It outlines the process for submitting questions and specifies that responses will be posted on SAM.GOV.

• Project Information: Includes Project Number (610-21-101), Project Title (Remodel Building 1), and Project Location (VA Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion Campus).
• Instructions for Questions: Emphasizes that bidders must thoroughly read all solicitation documents before submitting questions. Questions must specifically reference the relevant specification, solicitation section, or drawing number.
• Contact Information: Identifies Elizabeth Finley, Contract Specialist, Department of Veterans Affairs, Network 10 Contracting Office as the point of contact.
• Response Method: States that RFI responses will be posted on SAM.GOV.

This RFI template guides bidders on how to seek clarification for the "Remodel Building 1" project. It highlights the importance of specific referencing in questions and informs bidders that all answers will be publicly posted on SAM.GOV, ensuring transparency and equal access to information for all potential offerors.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is the "Pre-Award Contractor Safety and Environmental Record Evaluation Form" for Solicitation # 36C25026B0007. It is used to collect information on a contractor's safety and environmental record prior to award.

• Company Information: Name, Address, Telephone, Email, Contact Person.
• OSHA 300 Data: For the years 2022, 2023, and 2024, bidders must provide:
  • Number of man-hours (jobsite and office).
  • Number of cases involving days away from work, restricted activity, or both.
  • Days away, restricted, or transferred rate (DART Rate).
  • Number of serious, willful, or repeat violations from OSHA within the last 3 years (with explanation if applicable).
• Required Attachments: Copies of OSHA 300 and 300a Forms.
• NAICS Code: Six-digit North American Industrial Classification System code for the acquisition.
• Safety and Health Program Administrator.
• Company's Insurance Experience Modification Rate (EMR).

Bidders must complete this form accurately and attach the required OSHA documents. This information is crucial for the government's evaluation of the contractor's safety and environmental compliance, which may be a factor in the award decision. The form also provides a link to access the necessary OSHA forms.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING - CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION (JAN 2023) (DEVIATION)", is a mandatory certification for offerors. It outlines the limitations on subcontracting that must be adhered to if awarded a contract, particularly for services and construction.

• Services Contracts: Contractors must ensure that no more than 50% of the amount paid by the government goes to firms that are not certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) or Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (VOSBs).
• General Construction Contracts: Contractors must ensure that no more than 85% of the amount paid by the government goes to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs or VOSBs.
• Special Trade Construction Contractors: Contractors must ensure that no more than 75% of the amount paid by the government goes to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs or VOSBs.
• Subcontractor Counting: Work subcontracted by a similarly situated certified SDVOSB/VOSB subcontractor counts towards these limits.
• Exclusions: Cost of materials are excluded from subcontracting calculations for construction contracts.
• Penalties: False certifications are subject to criminal, civil, or administrative penalties, including prosecution.
• Compliance Verification: Offerors must be prepared to provide documentation to demonstrate compliance.

This certification is a required part of the offeror's bid, quotation, or proposal. Failure to complete, sign, and return this certification will render the offer ineligible for evaluation and award. Bidders must understand and agree to these subcontracting limitations before submitting their offer.

Forms / Attachments / Pricing Sheets

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) for Indiana, specifically for Building Construction. It outlines the prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits required for various construction trades within the specified counties. This information is crucial for contractors to ensure compliance with labor standards on federal or federally funded construction projects.

• Applicable Counties: Lists numerous counties in Indiana where these wage rates apply.
• Construction Type: Building Construction (excluding single-family homes and apartments up to 4 stories).
• Executive Order Requirements: Details minimum wage rates applicable under Executive Order 14026 and Executive Order 13658 for contracts entered into or renewed on or after January 30, 2022, and for contracts awarded between January 1, 2015, and January 29, 2022, if not renewed or extended after January 30, 2022.
• Trade-Specific Wage Rates: Provides detailed hourly wage and fringe benefit rates for various trades, including:
  • Asbestos Worker/Heat & Frost Insulator
  • Hazardous Material Handler
  • Boilermaker
  • Bricklayer, Stone Mason, Pointer, Caulking
  • Terrazzo Finisher/Worker/Setter
  • Tile & Marble Finisher/Setter
  • Carpenter
  • Millwright
  • Electrician
  • Elevator Mechanic
  • Power Equipment Operators (multiple groups)
  • Truck Driver (multiple groups)
  • Painter (Brush and Roller, Spray and Sandblasting)
  • Glazier
  • Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher
  • Plasterer
  • Plumber and Steamfitter
  • Roofer (Composition, Slate & Tile)
  • Sprinkler Fitter
  • Sheet Metal Worker (HVAC Duct Work)
  • Laborers (various groups and classifications)
• Footnotes: Include details on paid holidays and vacation pay credits.

This document is essential for any bidder on a construction project in the specified Indiana counties that is subject to federal labor standards. Bidders must use these prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits when calculating their labor costs for proposals. Failure to comply with these rates can lead to contract violations and penalties. It helps bidders determine the labor cost component of their bid and assess the overall feasibility of the project.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a pre-solicitation notice for the "Remodel Building 1, Marion 610-21-101" project at the Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion Campus. The project involves remodeling approximately 20,000 square feet of Building 1.

The project includes:

• Hazardous Material Abatement: Including attic insulation, ceiling systems, tile and mastic, carpet adhesive, sealants, lead-based paint, and underground site utilities.
• Interior Modifications: Demolition of all interior components (walls, ceilings, etc.) with new construction. Installation of a new elevator for ADA access. Construction of a new structural frame within the building envelope, concrete buttress, and engineered helical piers to stabilize the existing structure. Improvements include new fire alarm, fire suppression, lightning protection, geothermal heating and cooling, electrical systems, and IT/Security systems meeting current VA requirements.
• Exterior Modifications: Replacement of all exterior doors and windows. Masonry repair (re-pointing, brick replacement). Replacement of exterior porches/entries. Exterior foundation waterproofing. Construction of a new ADA accessible concrete ramp. Replacement of landscaping.

Not specified in this notice.

This is not a solicitation. The Government anticipates issuing an invitation for bid on or about November 6, 2025.

This opportunity is set aside for SDVOSBC (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business).

• NAICS Code: 236220
• Product Service Code: Z1DA
• Place of Performance: Department of Veterans Affairs, Northern Indiana Health Care System, Marion Campus, Marion, IN 46953, USA.
• Contracting Office ZIP Code: 46240
• Contact: Elizabeth Finley, Contracting Specialist, Elizabeth.Finley1@va.gov