Z2NZ--631-19-002 Upgrade Steam Distribution System Phase II

Amendment / Modification

This amendment incorporates responses to Requests for Information (RFIs) received for solicitation 36C24126Q0173.

Specifically, it addresses the following:

• Modulating Valves: For RHC, UH, radiator, FCU, etc., sized less than 2 inches, modulating V-port style ball valves are acceptable. However, air handlers and other large volume equipment must continue to use globe style modulation.
• Communication Protocol: BACnet MS/TP shall be utilized instead of IP.

This amendment clarifies requirements related to valve types and communication protocols, impacting Division 23-09-23 of the original solicitation.

No changes to proposal deadlines or submission requirements are indicated. Bidders should ensure their proposals reflect these clarifications.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a set of architectural and engineering drawings detailing the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project at the VAMC Central Western Massachusetts (CWM). It includes various "Part-Plan" drawings for different areas and floors (basement, first floor, second floor, attic, mechanical rooms) showing new steam system piping work. The drawings also include legends for piping symbols, fire barriers, and electrical symbols, as well as general new work notes and basis of design information.

• Piping Plans: Detailed layouts of new and existing steam supply (LPS, MPS, HPS) and condensate return piping across multiple floors and specific mechanical rooms.
• Legends: Comprehensive lists of symbols used for piping, fire barriers, and electrical components.
• General New Work Notes: Instructions and specifications for the installation of new piping systems, including slope requirements, isolation valves, and connections to heating units.
• Basis of Design: Information regarding the project's objectives, such as upgrading the steam distribution system, re-feeding existing heating units, and potentially replacing or modifying existing components.
• Electrical Plans: Specific electrical plans for basement areas, showing power distribution and panel information related to the mechanical systems.

This document is crucial for bidders as it provides the detailed technical specifications and layout for the steam system upgrade. It outlines the scope of work, required materials, installation methods, and specific locations for all new piping and related components. Understanding these drawings is essential for accurate bidding, material procurement, and successful project execution.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0003) to solicitation 36C24126Q0173 incorporates responses to Requests for Information (RFIs) received.

• RFIs Received 2-631-19-002 Steam Phase II - 4-14-2026 (attached)
• RFIs Received 2- Marked Up Drawing Set for Reference (attached)

All other terms and conditions of the original solicitation remain unchanged. Bidders should review the attached RFI responses and marked-up drawings for any impact on their proposals.

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document contains responses to Requests for Information (RFIs) regarding the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project. The RFIs seek to clarify scope, particularly concerning the upgrade of pneumatic controls to Direct Digital Controls (DDC) for various heating units and components.

• DDC Upgrade Scope: The general intention is for DDC for all loads, and pneumatic devices will be eliminated. Specific details on which units require DDC components are being clarified, with a request for the contractor to identify all Finned Tube Radiators, Cast Iron Radiators, Convectors, Unit Heaters, and steam heating coils that require DDC electronic components.
• Unit Heater Controls: There is a clarification needed regarding unit heaters. Some drawings indicate DDC control, while others suggest line voltage package controls. The VA response indicates that for RFI-003, the unit heaters are to be provided with DDC control.
• Existing Controls: For some components like duct coils (RFI-004), existing steam control valves are to remain and do not require replacement.
• Missing Notes/Scope: Several RFIs address equipment where "keyed new work notes" are missing or unclear. The VA has provided responses to confirm scope, such as replacing existing steam control valves or confirming that certain units have no DDC scope.
• Alarms: A clarification was sought regarding high-level float alarms for ETR condensate pumps, with the VA response indicating they should be provided for all ETR CP.

These clarifications are crucial for bidders to accurately estimate costs and understand the full scope of work, particularly regarding the extent of DDC integration and the specific components to be upgraded or replaced. Bidders should review the VA's responses to each RFI to ensure their proposals align with the clarified requirements.

Amendment / Modification

• The offer due date for Solicitation 36C24126Q0173 has been extended.

• Item 11: "THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS"

• The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended.

• The offer due date is extended to 04/21/2026 at 1:00 PM EDT.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a sign-in sheet for a meeting related to Project 631-19-002, "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2," which took place on March 3, 2026. It records the names, companies, phone numbers, and email addresses of attendees.

• Project Name: 631-19-002 Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2
• Meeting Date: 3/3/2026
• Attendee Information: Name, Company, Phone, E-Mail

This sign-in sheet may be relevant to bidders as it lists companies and individuals who attended a meeting concerning the project. This could indicate potential competitors, partners, or stakeholders involved in the opportunity. The contact information provided may be useful for networking or gathering further insights into the project.

Specification

This document contains specifications for the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project, identified by Project Number 631-19-002, located at the VAMC Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System in Leeds, MA. The specifications are dated December 26, 2025, and are designated as a "Permit Set."

This specification is organized into several books and divisions, detailing various aspects of the construction project:

• Book One of One: Covers general requirements and specific technical areas including:

  • General Requirements
  • Existing Conditions
  • Concrete
  • Wood, Plastics and Composites
  • Thermal and Moisture Protection
  • Finishes
  • Special Construction
  • Plumbing
  • HVAC
  • Electrical
  • Communications

• Section 00 01 15 - List of Drawings: This section provides a comprehensive list of all drawings that form part of the contract, categorized into "General Information" and "Mechanical." The mechanical drawings detail steam systems for various building areas (basement, first floor, second floor, attic) and include both demolition and proposed new work plans.

• Section 01 00 00 - General Requirements: This section outlines fundamental project requirements, including safety, general intentions, statement of bid items, period of performance, and project management team structure. It details the scope of work, which involves the removal and upgrade of the steam distribution system in multiple buildings (1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15, and 16) across various phases. It also addresses hazardous material removal (asbestos, lead paint), construction security, coordination, and site logistics.

• Other Sections: The document also references numerous other sections covering specific technical areas such as:

  • Demolition (02 41 00)
  • Asbestos Abatement (02 82 11)
  • Lead-Based Paint Removal (02 83 33.13)
  • Concrete (03 30 00)
  • Rough Carpentry (06 10 00)
  • Firestopping (07 84 00)
  • Joint Sealants (07 92 00)
  • HVAC Insulation (23 07 11)
  • Commissioning of HVAC Systems (23 08 00)
  • Electrical Installations (26 05 11)
  • Grounding and Bonding (26 05 26)
  • Raceways and Boxes (26 05 33)
  • Enclosed Switches and Circuit Breakers (26 29 21)
  • Communications Installations (27 05 11)

This document is crucial for potential bidders as it defines the scope, technical requirements, safety protocols, and administrative procedures for the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project. It details the specific buildings and areas affected, the types of work involved (demolition, removal of hazardous materials, new construction), and the expected performance standards. Bidders must review these specifications thoroughly to understand the project's complexity and to prepare accurate proposals.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment (0001) to solicitation 36C24126Q0173 incorporates the following:

• Provides responses to Request for Information (RFI) submissions.

• Includes revised specifications.

• Includes revised drawings.

• Provides the site visit sign-in sheet.

• Several specification sections have been updated: 01 00 00 & List of Attachments, 01 35 26, 02 41 00, Appendix A, 22 05 11, 23 05 11, and 23 07 11.

• Multiple drawings have been updated or removed: M301, M302, M401, 01-MPD113, 01-MPD114, 01-MPD115, 01-MPD116, 8-MPD101 & 8-MP101. Drawing HA001 has been removed from the drawing set.

• Updated specifications and bid drawings (Rev1) are attached.

• The hour and date for receipt of offers has been extended to April 15, 2026, 1:00 PM EDT.

• Offerors must acknowledge receipt of this amendment.

Specification

This document, titled "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" (Project Number: 631-19-002), outlines the technical specifications for the upgrade of the steam distribution system at the VAMC Central Western Massachusetts, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA 01053. The project involves comprehensive site preparation, demolition, removal of existing structures, new construction, and furnishing of labor and materials to upgrade the steam distribution system in specific buildings (1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15, 16).

• Major Work Areas: Removal and upgrade of steam distribution systems, power distribution to new system components, integration with existing campus Building Management System (BMS), and removal of hazardous materials (asbestos and lead paint).

• Tasks & Responsibilities: Includes general requirements, MEPF coordination, project scheduling, safety, quality control, construction waste management, and commissioning. Specific technical divisions covered are existing conditions (demolition, asbestos, lead paint removal), concrete, wood, thermal and moisture protection, finishes, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, and communications.

• Quality Control: Adherence to a Construction Quality Control (CQC) Plan, including preparatory, initial, and follow-up phases for each definable feature of work. CQC System Manager and Alternate CQC System Manager must have USACE Construction Quality Management (CQM) course completion.

• Safety Requirements: Compliance with OSHA, EM 385-1-1, and VA security management programs. Requires a Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) and Competent Persons (CPs) with specific experience and certifications (e.g., OSHA 30). Includes requirements for Activity Hazard Analyses (AHAs), Hot Work Permits, and Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSMs).

• MEPF Coordination: A full-time MEPF Coordinator is required, responsible for identifying and resolving architecture and structure clashes, ensuring compliance with VA standards, and performing site visit investigations.

• Commissioning: Comprehensive commissioning of HVAC systems, including documentation, testing, and training, as per Section 01 91 00.

• Environmental Controls: Plans for dust control, infection control (ICRA), noise and vibration control, and construction waste management are required.

• Period: 730 calendar days from Notice to Proceed. Mobilization must occur within a maximum of 120 calendar days from NTP.

• Place: VAMC Central Western Massachusetts, 421 North Main Street, Leeds, MA 01053, specifically within Buildings 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 15, and 16.

• Personnel Qualifications: Detailed experience and certification requirements for Project Manager, Superintendent, CQC System Manager, MEPF Coordinator, and SSHO.

• Security: Strict adherence to VA security management program, PIV badging, key control, document control, and motor vehicle restrictions.

• Submittals: Extensive list of required submittals including project schedules, coordination drawings (BIM model, composite drawings), product data, test reports, certifications, O&M manuals, and various plans (e.g., Logistics Plan, Accident Prevention Plan, Environmental Protection Plan).

• Training: Contractor to provide training to VA personnel on equipment operation and maintenance, including HVAC systems and commissioning.

• Hazardous Materials: Specific procedures for asbestos abatement and lead-based paint removal, including detailed plans, certifications, and monitoring.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains the "List of Drawings" for the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project at the Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System. It serves as an index to all the architectural and engineering drawings associated with the project.

• Cover Sheet (G101): Includes project information, VA project number (631-19-002), project title, location, and approval signatures.
• Campus Key Plan (G102): Provides an overview of the facility layout with building designations.
• Asbestos Abatement Inventory Schedule (HA001): Details locations and quantities of asbestos-containing materials.
• Mechanical Drawings (M series): Includes general notes, legends, schedules, demolition plans for various building areas (basement, first floor, second floor, attic), and new work plans.
• Electrical Drawings (EP series): Includes new work plans for basement electrical systems.
• Drawing Numbering System: Drawings are organized by building and system (e.g., 01-MPD101 for Building 1 Mechanical Demolition Plan).

This document is crucial for bidders to understand the scope and organization of the project documentation. It helps in identifying all relevant drawings for their respective disciplines (mechanical, electrical, asbestos abatement) and understanding the overall project structure. Bidders should review the list to ensure they have access to all necessary drawings for accurate bidding and execution.

Wage Determination

This document is a General Decision Number MA20260003, dated 01/02/2026, for building construction projects in Massachusetts. It supersedes MA20250003. The decision covers the counties of Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire.

This wage determination applies to building construction projects, specifically excluding residential construction of single-family homes and apartments up to and including 4 stories.

This document details the prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction trades within the specified counties. Bidders should consult this document to understand the minimum wage requirements for laborers and mechanics employed on covered projects.

• Insulator/asbestos worker

• Boilermaker

• Bricklayer

• Piledriverman

• Carpenter

• Millwright

• Floor Layer (Carpet)

• Electrician

• Elevator Mechanic

• Power equipment operators (various groups)

• Ironworker

• Laborer (various groups and classifications)

• Marble Finisher

• Glazier

• Painter (New Construction and Repaint)

• Plumber and Steamfitter

• Roofer

• Sprinkler Fitter

• Sheet metal worker

• Truck drivers (various groups)

• The document includes specific footnotes regarding paid holidays and vacation for certain trades.

• It also references Executive Orders 13706 (Paid Sick Leave) and 13658 (minimum wage for federal contractors).

• Information on how to appeal wage determinations is also provided.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This solicitation is for the "Upgrade Steam Distribution Phase 2" project at the VA Medical Center in Leeds, MA. The project involves upgrading the steam distribution system at the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System Edward P Boland Campus. This solicitation is being issued under the VISN 1 Construction MATOC, and only eligible VISN 1 Construction MATOC vendors may submit an offer.

• Upgrade the steam distribution system.

• Comply with all applicable specifications, drawings, and the Statement of Work.

• Adhere to construction wage requirements (General Decision Wage Determination MA20260003).

• Commence work within 10 calendar days of Notice to Proceed and complete within 730 calendar days.

• Provide Performance and Payment Bonds for awards exceeding $150,000.

• Provide Bid Bonds/Bid Guarantee.

• Comply with limitations on subcontracting (85% for general construction).

• Contract Type: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be a Task Order under a MATOC.

• Period of Performance: 730 calendar days from Notice to Proceed.

• Estimated Value: Between $10,000,000 and $20,000,000.

• Proposal Due Date/Time: 03/31/2026 at 1:00 PM ET.

• Proposal Evaluation Factor: Price Only.

• Submission Method: Electronically through the Vendor Portal. NO HARD COPY PROPOSALS OR FACSIMILES WILL BE ACCEPTED.

• Offer Acceptance Period: Offers must be valid for at least 120 calendar days.

• Proposal Components: Signed offer including Statement of Items, itemized breakdown of costs, signed acknowledgment of amendments, and signed VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING.

• Task Orders are 100% set aside for verified Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB's).

• NAICS Code: 236220.

• Site Visit: 03/03/2026 at 11:00 AM ET.

• RFI Due Date/Time: 03/17/2026 at 1:00 PM ET.

• Specifications and Drawings will be provided electronically.

• Relevant attachments include: Specifications, Final Drawings, Wage Determination, and Base Offer Breakdown.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is an Excel spreadsheet containing a breakdown for a "Base Offer Cost". It appears to be a template for bidders to detail their proposed costs, broken down by CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) divisions, labor, materials, overhead, profit, and bond.

• Base Offer Cost Breakdown: A detailed table structured by CSI divisions (e.g., Division 1: General Requirements, Division 3: Concrete, Division 23: HVAC, etc.).
• Cost Categories: Includes columns for Labor Cost, Material Cost, and Total Cost for each division.
• Overhead, Profit, and Bond: Sections to input percentages and subtotals for overhead, profit, and bond.
• Total Base Offer Cost: A final summary line for the total proposed cost.
• Labor Detail Sheet: Provides a sample breakdown of labor costs by category, rate, hours, and total.
• Materials and Equipment Details Sheet: Provides a sample breakdown of material and equipment costs by item, rate, units, and total.

This template is crucial for bidders to understand the expected format for submitting their cost proposals. It outlines how costs should be categorized and presented, allowing for a standardized comparison of offers. Bidders will need to populate this spreadsheet with their specific cost estimates for each line item to comply with submission requirements.