Z1DA--Renovate B26 for Mental Health - 538-23-102 Chillicothe VAMC

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides clarifications and answers to vendor questions regarding the "538-23-102 Renovate B26 Mental Health" project.

• Door Hardware: Specify Best Manufacturer, seven-pin, figure-eight small format interchangeable cores for all door hardware cylinders. For panels and casework locks, use Best Manufacturer, seven-pin, 5e plug.
• Resinous Flooring to Wall Transition: The resinous flooring contractor shall create an integral resin cove base extending 4"-6" up the wall to seamlessly transition to the wall tile, covering the existing Schluter base.
• Window Film: Use 3M Crystal Dusted Crystal Glass Finishes.
• Floor Patching: Floor patching is required in corridors C108 & C106 at windows, matching existing linoleum flooring.
• Basement Slab Reinforcement: Macro-fiber reinforcement (ASTM C1116, ASTM D7508) is allowed as a substitute for welded wire mesh (WWF) for temperature and shrinkage control, with a minimum dosage of 3 lb/cy. Submit product data and manufacturer's dosage requirements.
• Column Fireproofing: Existing fireproofing on column base plates must be removed before slab placement and replaced where gaps exist after slab construction.
• Basement Equipment: Only electric equipment is allowed in the basement.
• Resinous Flooring Substitution: The proposed Sherwin-Williams HybriFlex EC is not approved as a substitution for the specified Stonhard Stontec® TRF due to differences in composition and performance characteristics, particularly robustness and behavioral health appropriateness.
• HVAC Controls: Existing Niagara controls are on the N4 platform.
• Camera Surveillance: Existing cameras are Axis. Contractor to provide licenses for new cameras. Owner has capacity for switch, server, and NVR.
• Access Control: Existing system is AMAG FICAM Capable. Contractor to provide licenses for controlled doors. Owner has capacity for switch and server.
• Ceiling Type ACT-2: Use Armstrong Clean Room VL #870 Unperforated 2x4x5/8".
• Fire Alarm: To be Simplex 4100ES, expanding the existing Simplex system.
• Basement Slab Elevation: New slab to match existing basement slab elevation (699'-0"). Approximately 5" of existing gravel base must be removed. Removed gravel can be used for the new base.
• Sump Pits: Refer to addendum #1 for details on reworking/extending existing sump pits.

These clarifications provide specific material, installation, and system requirements. Bidders should review these details to ensure their proposals accurately reflect the project's needs. No changes to due dates or submission rules were explicitly mentioned in this Q&A document.

Other / Unclassified

This document provides instructions for the in-person and virtual bid opening for Project 538-23-102, Renovate B26 Mental Health, under Solicitation 36C25026B0009.

Bidders should note the following key details for the bid opening:

• Date and Time: April 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM, local time.
• Location (In-Person): NCO 10 office, 3140 Governor’s Place Blvd., Suite 210, Kettering, OH 45409.
• Virtual Option (TEAMS Line):
  • Phone Number: 872-701-0185
  • Access Code: 633095448#
  • Callers may join starting at 10:55 AM, local time.
• Process: Attendance will be taken at the beginning and end. Bids will be annotated with the date/time received; late bids will not be considered. The apparent low bidder will be announced after the opening.
• Post-Opening: A bid abstract will be posted to SAM.GOV.

Amendment / Modification

This addendum supplements and amends the original Drawings and Specifications for the Renovate B26 Mental Health project. It consists of 8 drawing sheets, responses to RFIs, and the environmental report.

Key changes include:

• Specifications: Section 02 82 11 - Traditional Asbestos Abatement has been revised (1.1/B/2 Chart revised).
• Drawings (AE100 - Basement New Work):
  • Existing sump pump crock locations have been added.
  • Existing mechanical pad sizer has been revised.
  • Note 1.04 has been added.
• Drawings (S101 - Foundation Plan):
  • The size of the existing equipment pad was increased per field conditions, and a new slab edge detail was provided at the interface between the existing and new slab.
  • Existing sump pumps were added to the plan, located near column line y12 and between E.7 & G.1 and N.5 & Q.2.
  • Additional plan keynotes were added regarding existing gravel removal, subgrade preparation, and floor elevation/flatness.
• Drawings (S201 - Typical Foundation Details and Sections):
  • The construction joint detail was switched from a keyed joint to a doweled joint.
  • A section for the thickened slab edge to provide spill containment protection has been added.

Specifications Section 02 82 11, Drawings AE100 and S101, and S201.

Bidders must acknowledge receipt of this addendum on the Form of Proposal. All changes noted in this addendum must be taken into account in the preparation of bids and will become part of the Contract Documents.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment extends the deadline for the receipt of offers for solicitation 36C25026B0009.

• The "HOUR & DATE for Receipt of Offers" has been extended.

• The following documents are attached and incorporated into the solicitation:

  • Bid Opening Instructions Revised 36C25026B0009.
  • RFI Questions and Answers 36C25026B0009 - Renovate B26 Mental Health - 538-23-102.
  • Addendum 1 to Drawings and Specifications - Renovate B26 Mental Health - 538-23-102.

• The hour and date for receipt of offers is extended to: 04-22-2026 11:00 EDT.

• 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 related to the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" project, associated with Project No. 538-23-102.

• Lists attendees' names, companies, and email addresses.
• Includes signatures for each attendee.
• Dated March 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM ET.

This document serves as a record of attendance for the site visit. Bidders who attended can be identified, and their contact information is provided. This may be useful for networking or follow-up related to the opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides the attendance list for a pre-bid site visit related to Solicitation 36C25026B0009, "Renovate B26 Mental Health - 538-23-102".

• Lists attendees of the site visit.
• Identifies the project and solicitation number.

This attachment confirms attendance at a mandatory or recommended site visit. Bidders should review this list to understand who else is participating in the opportunity and may use it as confirmation of their own attendance if required by the solicitation.

Amendment / Modification

This document contains amended final drawings for the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" project at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Chillicothe, Ohio. The drawings are identified by Project # 538-23-102.

• The document consists of revised architectural drawings, including demolition plans, new work plans, reflected ceiling plans, wall types, details, sections, casework details, door schedules, finish plans, fire suppression plans, plumbing distribution and demolition plans, electrical plans, technology plans, and control diagrams.

• Bidders should refer to these amended final drawings for the most current and accurate information regarding the project scope and requirements. It is crucial to use these revised drawings for all proposal and construction activities.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment provides updated drawings for the solicitation.

• Amended Drawings: The document "538-23-102 Amended Final Drawings" has been attached and supersedes previous versions.

All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged. Prospective bidders should ensure they are using the most current set of drawings for their proposals.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Justification for Single Source Award for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. It pertains to a construction project (Project 538-23-102) to renovate B26 Mental Health, specifically addressing the need for "Best Lock" cores.

This document explains why the VA intends to sole-source the "Best Lock" cores. Key points for potential bidders include:

• Procurement Focus: The project requires "Best" brand-name lock cores to maintain security and compatibility with the existing "BEST" keying system at the Chillicothe VAMC.
• Sole Source Rationale: The VA states that the "BEST" system is standardized and a different lock system would pose unnecessary safety risks and security impacts on patients, staff, and operations. Standardization is critical for efficiency and maintainability.
• Market Research: The document indicates that the "BEST" master key system is already established and supports thousands of doors.
• Contracting Authority: The justification is made under FAR 13.106-1(b) for purchases over the micro-purchase threshold but not exceeding the SAT ($250K).
• Acquisition Details: The Acquisition Plan Action ID is 36C250-26-AP-0078. The Contracting Officer is Jenessa Regan. The effective date is 11/15/2024.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a Single Source Justification (J&A) for a Simplified Acquisition Procedure (SAP) under the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.106-1. It justifies the procurement of a Simplex-Grinnell Fire Detection/Mass Notification System for the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" project at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center.

This document explains why the government intends to sole-source the procurement of a Simplex-Grinnell system. Key reasons include:

• Existing Infrastructure: The VAMC campus already has a Simplex-Grinnell Fire Detection/Mass Notification System.
• Compatibility and Warranty: Maintaining consistency with the existing system is crucial for continued communications. Using a different system or an uncertified installer could void the manufacturer's warranty, leading to increased costs and potential safety risks.
• Patient/Staff Safety: A unified system ensures efficient notification during emergencies, reducing confusion and risk.
• Cost Efficiency: Procuring a different system would require replacing the existing Simplex-Grinnell system, incurring additional installation and maintenance costs.

While Simplex-Grinnell is the sole source for this specific equipment, the justification notes that numerous Simplex-Grinnell certified vendors can provide the installation services.

Other / Unclassified (Single Source Justification)

This document is a justification for soliciting from a single source for the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" construction project at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. It explains why only one source, specifically for the Ascom Telligence Nurse Call System, is deemed necessary.

• Existing Infrastructure: The facility currently uses the Ascom Telligence System, and adding components requires maintaining consistency.
• Warranty Preservation: Using non-Ascom Telligence components or having an uncertified installer could void the manufacturer's comprehensive warranty.
• Operational Impact: Using a different system would negatively impact patient/staff safety, increase notification times, and create confusion.
• Cost Efficiency: Switching systems would incur additional costs for installation, replacement of the existing system, and a new maintenance contract.

Market research indicates that while the Ascom Telligence System equipment can be purchased from numerous certified vendors, the need for standardization and maintaining the existing warranty supports the single-source justification for this specific project.

This document indicates that any vendor responding to the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" construction project must be capable of providing and installing Ascom Telligence Nurse Call System components to ensure compatibility, maintain warranty, and meet operational requirements. It highlights a specific brand-name requirement for this part of the project.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a General Decision Number OH20260053, dated 01/02/2026, for Building Construction Projects in Ross County, Ohio. It supersedes OH20250053. The document lists prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction trades, including:

• Asbestos Worker/Heat & Frost Insulator
• Bricklayer
• Tile Finisher/Setter
• Carpenter
• Electrician (various specialties)
• Elevator Mechanic
• Power Equipment Operator (Bobcat, Crane, Forklift)
• Ironworker (Ornamental, Structural)
• Laborer (Common/General, Mason Tender, Pipelayer)
• Painter (Brush and Roller)
• Glazier
• Cement Mason/Concrete Finisher
• Plumber (including HVAC Pipe Installation)
• Pipefitter
• Sprinkler Fitter
• Sheet Metal Worker (HVAC Unit/Duct Installation)
• Ironworker, Reinforcing
• Roofer
• Drywall Finisher/Taper, Hanger and Metal Stud Installer
• Operator (Backhoe, Excavator, Trackhoe, Loader, Paver, Truck Driver)
• Welders

It also includes information on paid holidays and employer contributions to vacation pay. Additionally, it references Executive Order 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and Executive Order 13658 (Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors), outlining contractor obligations. The document provides guidance on the Wage Determination Appeals Process.

This document is crucial for bidders on federal construction projects in Ross County, Ohio, as it establishes the minimum prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits that must be paid to laborers and mechanics employed on such projects. Bidders must ensure their proposals account for these labor costs to comply with federal regulations, including the Davis-Bacon Act. Understanding these rates is essential for accurate cost estimation and bid preparation.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "538-23-102 Sole Source List.xlsx", appears to be a list detailing specific systems and their procurement method, indicating "Sole Source" for each. It is relevant to bidders as it identifies components that are designated for sole source acquisition, which may impact the overall strategy for responding to the opportunity.

• Keying System – Core: Identified as "BEST" and designated for "Sole Source" procurement under Specification Section 08 71 00 Door Hardware, Paragraph 2.11.
• Fire Detection and Alarm: Identified as "Simplex" and designated for "Sole Source" procurement under Specification Section 28 31 00 Fire Detection and Alarm, Paragraph 2.1.
• Nurse Call and Code Blue Systems: Designated for "Sole Source" procurement under Specification Section 25 52 23 Nurse Call and Code Blue Systems, Paragraph 1.1.A.

This list highlights specific systems that the government intends to procure through a sole source method. Bidders should note these items as they may not be open for competitive bidding and could influence the scope of work or the overall contract structure for this opportunity.

Drawings / Plans

This document contains a comprehensive set of architectural and engineering drawings for the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" project at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Chillicothe, Ohio. The drawings detail various aspects of the renovation, including:

• Architectural Plans: Demolition plans, new work plans for the basement and first floor, wall types, details, enlarged plans, reflected ceiling plans, and floor finish plans.
• Structural Plans: Foundation plans and typical foundation details.
• MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) Plans: Fire suppression, plumbing distribution and demolition, HVAC ductwork demolition and plans, electrical lighting and power plans, fire alarm plans, and control diagrams.
• Technology Plans: Data network plans, technology room details, and equipment/furniture layouts.
• Details and Schedules: Casework sections, door schedules, finish legends, pipe schedules, and various construction details for wall types, ceilings, and mounting heights.

These drawings are critical for potential bidders to understand the full scope of the renovation project. They provide detailed information on:

• Scope of Work: Specific areas for demolition and new construction, including room layouts and modifications.
• Materials and Finishes: Detailed specifications for flooring, wall finishes, casework, doors, and other materials.
• Systems Integration: Information on how mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire suppression, and technology systems are to be installed, modified, or demolished.
• Compliance: References to applicable codes and standards (NFPA, IBC, ABAAS) that must be adhered to.
• Phasing: Details on how the project will be executed in phases, which is crucial for planning and site logistics.

Bidders must review these drawings thoroughly to accurately estimate costs, timelines, and resource requirements for their proposals.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a "General Planning & Infection Control Design Review Considerations" form, used to assess risks associated with construction, renovation, and maintenance in healthcare facilities, focusing on infection control. It helps determine the need for multiple PCRA/ICRA forms and phasing plans.

• Phasing: Identifies if a phasing plan is required.
• Traffic Impact: Assesses potential impact on pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
• Material Transport: Considers material transport within the building, including elevator usage and weight limits.
• Site Specific Considerations: Identifies risks to patient areas and requires mitigation strategies.
• Containment Measures: Specifies the need and type of containment (e.g., barriers, poly sheeting).
• Work Hours: Defines permissible work hours (e.g., non-patient care hours).
• Water Damage Risk: Assesses risks from structural compromises.
• Isolation/Negative Airflow Rooms: Confirms adequacy for isolation needs.
• Handwashing Sinks: Verifies sufficient number and type.
• TB Transmission Risk: Categorizes risk to contractors and determines pre-testing requirements.

This form is critical for bidders to understand and plan for infection control requirements, potential risks, containment measures, work hour restrictions, and health screenings (like TB testing). Addressing these aspects is essential for accurate budgeting and successful project execution within a healthcare environment.

Specifications / Technical Documents

This document contains technical specifications for various systems, including:

• Electronic Safety and Security Systems (ESS): Requirements for physical access control (PACS), intrusion detection (IDS), video surveillance (VASS), and electronic personal protection (EPPS).

• Communications Systems: Specifications for grounding, conduits, cabling, patch panels, and network equipment.

• Fire Alarm Systems: Installation, components, testing, and maintenance requirements.

• Nurse Call and Code Blue Systems: Installation and functionality details.

• Installation and Testing: Guidelines for system setup and commissioning.

• Materials and Equipment: Specific requirements for components and materials.

• Quality Assurance and Submittals: Procedures for quality control and documentation.

• Maintenance and Warranty: Requirements for ongoing support.

• Applicable Standards and Codes: References to industry standards (NFPA, NEC, UL, TIA/EIA, etc.).

This document outlines the technical standards and requirements for electronic safety, security, communications, fire alarm, and nurse call systems. Bidders must understand these criteria for quality, performance, installation, and testing to ensure compliance.

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

To partially renovate approximately 19,000 square feet of the existing Sustained Behavioral Treatment Unit (SBTU) on the first floor of Building 26. The renovation will also address MHEOCC (Mental Health Environment of Care Checklist) items and provide a basement floor for a new Air Handling Unit (AHU).

• Partial renovation of the SBTU in a multiphase project to allow uninterrupted operations.

• Partial demolition of the existing SBTU area.

• Partial new construction within the SBTU, including hard ceilings, modified patient showers, and upgraded Nurse Call systems.

• Modification of existing window ledges to address MHEOCC deficiencies.

• Installation of anti-ligature hardware.

• Construction of two new sally-ports to divide the first floor into three separate SBTU treatment wings.

• Installation of a concrete basement floor to improve environmental conditions in the space housing the AHU.

• Complete renovation of two patient rooms to accommodate bariatric patients.

• Location: First floor of Building 26, and basement space for AHU.

• Anti-ligature hardware will be used.

• MHEOCC deficiencies will be addressed.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the "Renovate B26 Mental Health" project at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. The project involves new construction, including architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements, to be performed in accordance with the provided Statement of Work (SOW), specifications, and drawings. The work must also adhere to Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) and Pre-Construction Risk Assessment (PCRA) requirements.

• Complete renovation of B26 Mental Health facility.

• Includes new construction, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work.

• Specific tasks include renovation of tub rooms, patient restrooms, door security, staff offices, sally ports, hard ceilings, ADA patient rooms, bariatric restrooms, basement concrete slab, nurse call system, and window sill rework.

• Must comply with ICRA Class IV and PCRA requirements, including dust, noise, and vibration control.

• Project phasing is required to accommodate ongoing Medical Center operations.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance (POP): Varies by bid item, ranging from 270 to 330 calendar days after Notice to Proceed.

• Estimated Cost: Project magnitude is between $2,000,000.00 and $5,000,000.00.

• Offers are due by 11:00 AM EST on April 15, 2026.

• Bid opening is scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM EST at NCO 10 office, Kettering, OH.

• RFIs must be submitted electronically to Jeremy.Nee@Va.Gov by March 26, 2026, 2:00 PM local time.

• A site visit is scheduled for March 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM local time at the Chillicothe VA Engineering Building.

• Bidding materials (drawings, specifications) are available at SAM.gov.

• Offerors must insert their Cage Code, SAM.gov Unique Entity ID (UEI), and bid prices on SF1442 Block 17.

• Award may be made on Bid Item 1 (Base Bid) or subsequent alternates based on available funding.

• This solicitation is a 100% Set-Aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).

• Responding SDVOSBs must be classified as small business under NAICS code 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction, $45 million size standard).

• SDVOSBs must be registered and verified in https://dsbs.sba.gov and https://sam.gov.

• Compliance with VAAR 852.219-73 and VAAR 852.219-75 is mandatory.

• A bid guarantee of not less than 20% of the bid price (max $3,000,000.00) is required.

• Performance and Payment Bonds will be required if the contract exceeds $150,000.00.

• The solicitation includes SOW, specifications, drawings, wage determination, and other attachments.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a pre-solicitation notice for the "Renovate B26 for Mental Health" project (Project 538-23-102) at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Network Contracting Office (NCO) 10 requires renovation of approximately 19,000 sf of the existing Sustained Behavioral Treatment Unit (SBTU) on the first floor of Building 26. The project also includes installing a new Air Handling Unit (AHU) in a new basement floor.

• Partial renovation of the existing SBTU in a multiphase approach to ensure uninterrupted operations.

• Partial demolition of the existing SBTU area.

• New construction within the SBTU, including hard ceilings, modified floors in patient showers, upgraded Nurse Call systems, and modifications to existing window ledges to address MHEOCC deficiencies.

• Installation of anti-ligature hardware.

• Construction of two new sally-ports to divide the first floor into three separate SBTU treatment wings.

• Installation of a concrete basement floor to house the new AHU.

• Complete renovation of two patient rooms to create two bariatric rooms.

• Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing requirements.

• Project magnitude is estimated between $2,000,000.00 and $5,000,000.00.

• Estimated Period of Performance (POP) is 320 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

• Solicitation documents are expected to be posted to Contract Opportunities on SAM.gov on or about November 12, 2025.

• Proposals are due approximately 30 days after solicitation issuance.

• Site visit information will be included in the solicitation package.

• Questions should be submitted in writing via email to jeremy.nee@va.gov.

• This procurement is a 100% Set-Aside for Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) only.

• Responding SDVOSBs must be classified as small business under NAICS code 236220 (Commercial and Institutional Building Construction, size standard $45 million).

• SDVOSBs must be registered and verified in SAM.gov and SBA's Certifications (search.certifications.sba.gov).

• The SDVOSB Contractor or SDVOSB Sub-Contractor shall be required to perform a minimum of 15% of the construction work.

• Bid, Payment, and Performance bonds will be required.

• This is a pre-solicitation notice; a solicitation is not currently available.

• Dissemination of solicitation, specifications, and drawings will be electronic only via SAM.gov.

• Offerors are responsible for registering at SAM.gov for automatic updates and amendments.