Y1DA--Replace Outdated Transformer Project 630A4-26-412

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to Request for Information (RFI) questions regarding the "630A4-26-412 Replace Outdated Transformer" opportunity.

• Work Hours: Work requiring electrical shutdowns must be coordinated with the COR and performed after hours or on weekends. Standard business hours are acceptable for work not requiring power shutdowns.
• Padlocks: The contractor is responsible for providing padlocks with interchangeable cores, keyed to the VA master key system.
• Signage: The contractor is responsible for all applicable signage and VA-specific identifiers at the transformer.
• Pump House Identification: The Pump House is identified as Building 176. A one-line diagram for Building 176 is attached to the solicitation.
• Laundry Transformer: Building 173 is the current Laundry building. The transformer for Building 173 is shown as single feed on Drawing E-2, but all replacement transformers are required to be dual feed.
• PCB Contamination: The solicitation does not provide a transformer-by-transformer PCB contamination report. Transformers for Buildings 173 (Laundry) and 176 (Pump House) do not contain PCBs. The contractor shall verify existing conditions.
• Temporary Generators: The contractor is responsible for providing backup power to avoid power interruptions and must coordinate outage plans and temporary power plans with VA Engineering, Safety, COR/CO, and affected departments.
• Transformer Dimensions: Specific dimensions for transformers are provided for reference, but the contractor is responsible for verifying measurements in the field and ensuring new transformers fit existing pads.
• Disposal: The contractor is responsible for the removal and proper disposal/recycling of existing transformers, including all required documentation.
• Con Edison Service: Any shutdown of incoming utility power must be coordinated with Con Edison and the VA in advance, and the contractor should not assume power will be shut off without approved requests and plans.

These clarifications address specific questions about work hours, equipment, building identification, transformer specifications (dual feed requirement), hazardous materials, power continuity, and disposal. Bidders should review these responses carefully as they may impact their understanding of the scope, requirements, and pricing.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment serves two primary purposes:

• To provide responses to vendor inquiries (RFIs).

• To extend the bid opening date.

• The bid opening date has been extended.

• The Bid Opening Date is extended through May 22, 2026, at 10:00 AM EST.

• Bids must be submitted no later than May 22, 2026, at 9:00 AM EST.

• Responses to RFIs are provided in an attached document.

Amendment / Modification

This amendment corrects dates previously identified in the initial solicitation (36C24226B0043).

All references to dates in the original solicitation have been revised.

This amendment does not extend the hour and date specified for receipt of offers.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document outlines the requirements for the replacement of five pad-mounted transformers at the St. Albans VAMC. The project involves furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision necessary to complete the transformer replacements in specified locations. Bidders are advised that site visits may be made by appointment only, and all personnel must comply with VA security protocols.

• Replacement of five pad-mounted transformers: two serving Building 89, one serving Building 88, one 1000 kVA transformer for Building 173 (Laundry), and one 500 kVA transformer for Building 176 (Pumphouse).

• Custom transformers may need to be built to match existing size and design for compatibility.

• Phased work, replacing one transformer at a time, with generator rental backup during peak load periods.

• Provision of all temporary power.

• Commissioning of new transformers with certified test reports.

• Independent third-party testing and submission of signed and sealed as-built shop drawings.

• Supply and installation of dual-feed factory or custom replacement transformers.

• Furnishing, installation, and testing of transformers with mineral oil.

• Compliance with VA master specifications, infection control protocols, and manufacturer specifications.

• Detailed reports available within 30 days after field testing.

• The contract involves mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and related trade work for system restoration.

• Work must be performed in accordance with VA design guidelines.

• Drawings and contract documents are available from the solicitation posting website.

• Bidders are responsible for verifying all field conditions.

• Phasing plans require VA approval.

• Security procedures must be strictly followed, including obtaining badges, providing advance notice for security arrangements, and adhering to rules regarding photography and sensitive information.

• A security plan must be submitted.

• Vehicle authorization requests are required 24 hours in advance.

• Not specified in this section.

• All overtime, night, weekend, or additional work must be included in the bid.

• Any discovered electrical or mechanical defects must be reported immediately.

• Authorization for additional repairs and costs must be agreed upon before proceeding.

• The contractor is responsible for all temporary buildings and utilities, which must be removed at the contractor's expense unless otherwise agreed.

• Strict adherence to VA security management programs and employee identification is required.

• The contractor must maintain a minimum temperature of 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) unless otherwise specified.

• Existing fire protection and alarm equipment must be maintained in operating condition.

• The contractor must coordinate work to minimize interference with Medical Center operations.

• A Warranty Management Plan is required, including a 4-month and 9-month warranty inspection.

• Performance and Payment Bonds are required.

• As-built drawings (electronic PDF) must be submitted after each completed phase and project acceptance.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING .pdf", is a VA clause (852.219-77) that requires offerors to certify their compliance with subcontracting limitations if awarded a contract. It outlines the specific limitations for services, general construction, and special trade construction contracts.

• Services Contracts: Contractors must not pay more than 50% of the contract amount to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs or VOSBs.
• General Construction Contracts: Contractors must not pay more than 85% of the contract amount to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs or VOSBs. Costs of materials are excluded.
• Special Trade Construction Contracts: Contractors must not pay more than 75% of the contract amount to firms that are not VIP-listed SDVOSBs or VOSBs. Costs of materials are excluded.
• Certification Requirement: Offerors must complete, sign, and return this certification with their bid, quotation, or proposal. Failure to do so will result in the offer being deemed ineligible for award.
• Compliance: Offerors acknowledge that submission of the offer constitutes a certification of compliance and that they may be required to provide documentation to verify compliance during contract performance.
• Penalties: False certifications are subject to penalties under Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, and the Small Business Act.

This document is critical for bidders to understand the subcontracting limitations applicable to the opportunity. Bidders must carefully review these limitations and ensure they can comply if awarded the contract. The completed and signed certification is a mandatory submission requirement for the offer to be considered for award.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides photographs of transformers located in Building 89. It is intended for reference purposes only.

• Photographs of transformers in Building 89.

Contractors are instructed to field verify all existing conditions. This attachment serves as a visual aid to understand the current state of the transformers in Building 89, which may be relevant for assessing the scope of work for any related maintenance, repair, or replacement tasks.

Solicitation

This is a Sealed Bid Invitation for Construction (IFB) for the "Replace Outdated Transformer" project at the St. Albans VA Campus in Queens, NY. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a contractor to replace five outdated pad-mounted transformers serving various buildings.

• Replacement of five specific pad-mounted transformers (T1 & T2 for Main Hospital Building 89, T3 for Outpatient Clinic Building 88, 1000 kVA for Laundry Building 173, and 500 kVA for Pumphouse Building 176).

• Custom or factory replacement transformers to match existing design and ensure compatibility.

• Phased work, with one transformer replacement at a time per location, including temporary power and generator backup.

• Commissioning of new transformers with certified test reports.

• Provision of independent third-party testing and signed/sealed as-built shop drawings.

• All work must comply with VA specifications, design guidelines, and applicable Federal, State, and Local codes.

• Contractor must provide all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision.

• Adherence to VA infection control protocols.

• Compliance with OSHA and other safety regulations.

• One-year warranty on all work performed.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Performance Period: 365 calendar days from the Notice to Proceed.

• Magnitude of Construction: Between $500,000 and $1,000,000.

• This is a 100% Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside procurement.

• Bids are due electronically via email to Torell Camp (torell.camp@va.gov) by 8:30 AM EST on 05/14/2026.

• Bid opening will be held online via Microsoft Teams on 05/14/2026 at 9:30 AM EST.

• Questions must be submitted in writing to Torell Camp by 4:00 PM EST on 04/20/2026.

• A pre-bid site visit is mandatory and scheduled for 04/16/2026 at 10:00 AM ET at the St. Albans VA Campus.

• Bids must remain valid for 120 calendar days after the due date.

• Bids providing less than 365 calendar days for Government acceptance will be rejected.

• This procurement is a 100% Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside.

• Contractors must be registered in SAM.gov and verified/certified as SDVOSB in the Small Business Search at the time of bid submission and before award.

• Offerors must submit their annual Vets4212 Report.

• NAICS Code: 236220 - Business Size is $45 Million.

• Contractors must acknowledge all solicitation amendments.

• Required attachments include: Buy American Certificate, VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting Certificate, and Vets4212 Report.

• The use of Autodesk Build Construction management platform (Autodesk Construction Cloud - ACC) is required for project management and collaboration.

• Contractors must complete VA Privacy Training for Personnel without Access to VA Computer Systems.

• New Jersey tax exemption form ST-13 must be completed for construction materials incorporated into VA real estate.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is an "As Built" Single Line Power Diagram for the Baisley Booster Building, detailing the "as constructed" electrical power distribution system. It serves as a record of the final installation for reference and maintenance.

• Single Line Diagram: Illustrates the layout and connections of major electrical components including transformers, switchgear, motor control centers, variable frequency drives, and distribution panels.
• Component Identification: Lists specific equipment such as boosters, blowers, starters, and control systems with their respective ratings (e.g., HP, AMP, KVA, Voltage).
• Feeder and Branch Circuit Schedules: Provides details on conductor types, sizes, conduit, and circuit assignments for power distribution.
• Panel Schedules: Details the circuits within distribution panels, including load descriptions and breaker sizes.
• Notes and Revisions: Includes important information regarding grounding, conduit runs, and "as built" certifications.

This diagram is crucial for bidders to understand the existing electrical infrastructure related to the Baisley Booster Building. It provides critical details about power sources, distribution, and equipment specifications, which are essential for assessing the scope of work, identifying potential integration points, and ensuring compliance with existing systems for any related maintenance, upgrade, or construction opportunities.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a site plan for electrical work related to a laundry facility. It details the layout of electrical conduits, manholes, lighting fixtures, and connections to existing infrastructure.

• Site layout showing roads, parking lots, and building footprints.
• Location and type of electrical components, including conduits, manholes, and light poles.
• Details on specific fixture types (e.g., "SA" exterior pole mounted luminaire) with specifications.
• Duct line details and notes regarding installation and materials.
• Existing and new underground electrical service information.
• Legend for various site utilities and features.

This plan provides critical information for bidders regarding the physical layout and requirements for electrical installations associated with the laundry facility. It helps in understanding the scope of work, potential site challenges, and the integration with existing systems, which is essential for accurate bidding and project planning.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a one-line diagram illustrating the primary distribution system and secondary generation for the St. Albans VA facility. It details the electrical interconnections, switchgear, transformers, and automatic transfer schemes.

• Electrical Interlock Schedule: Outlines the logic for automatic transfer between normal and emergency power sources based on breaker status.
• Primary Distribution: Shows the main power feeds (FDR. A and FDR. B), tie breakers, and associated switchgear.
• Transformers: Details existing and new transformers, including their ratings (KVA) and voltage levels.
• Emergency Power: Illustrates the integration of emergency generators and their distribution panels.
• Building Connections: Indicates how power is distributed to various buildings within the facility.

This diagram is crucial for understanding the existing electrical infrastructure and the proposed power distribution strategy. Bidders involved in electrical work, generator maintenance, or facility upgrades would need to consult this diagram to assess the scope of work, identify connection points, and understand the operational logic of the power systems.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This document specifies requirements for the furnishing, installation, connection, and testing of pad-mounted, liquid-filled, medium-voltage transformers for VA Ancillary facilities. It details technical specifications, materials, and installation procedures.

• Transformers must be pad-mounted, liquid-filled, medium-voltage type.
• Must be suitable for VA Ancillary facilities only.
• Requirements cover construction, compartments (medium- and low-voltage), BIL rating (minimum 60 kV for 5 kV class equipment), transformer fuse assembly (externally replaceable Bay-O-Net fuses in series with current-limiting fuses), primary connections, medium-voltage switches, medium-voltage terminations (600 A deadbreak premolded rubber elbow connectors), and low-voltage equipment.
• Transformers shall be continuous duty, integral assembly, grounded, tamper-resistant, with liquid-immersed windings.
• Specific standards from ASTM, IEEE, NFPA, UL, NEMA, ICC, and DOE (10 CFR Part 431) must be met.
• Factory tests are required and must be certified per IEEE Standards.
• Submittals include shop drawings (electrical ratings, nameplate data, dimensions, weight, mounting, decibel rating, termination info, temperature rise, losses, regulation, overcurrent protection, connection diagrams, accessories) and complete maintenance/operating manuals.
• Certifications by manufacturer and contractor are required prior to final inspection.

Not specified in this document.

• Submittals include shop drawings and manuals.

• Certifications required two weeks prior to final inspection.

• Acceptance checks and field tests are required.

• Contractor shall demonstrate proper operation upon completion.

• This section can only be used for VA Ancillary facilities. It shall not be used for VA Critical or Essential facilities.

• Related work includes sections on finishes, general electrical installation requirements, medium-voltage cables, grounding, underground electrical construction, and overcurrent protective device coordination study.

• Spare parts include protective caps, medium-voltage fuses, and cable fault indicators.

• Contractor shall provide instruction on maintenance and operation.

Other / Unclassified

This document, "REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS," outlines the general requirements for electrical work within Division 26. It covers:

• General Provisions: Defines the scope of work, including furnishing and installing electrical systems, materials, and equipment according to specifications and drawings. It emphasizes compliance with the electric utility company's requirements for service entrances and coordination of protective devices. Aluminum conductors are prohibited.
• Minimum Standards: Specifies adherence to the latest International Building Code (IBC), UL, IEEE, and NFPA codes and standards, with the drawings and specifications taking precedence if they impose greater requirements.
• Testing and Qualifications: Details requirements for materials and equipment to be listed, labeled, or certified by Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTLs). It also outlines manufacturer and product qualifications, including a three-year production and satisfactory operation history, and service organization requirements.
• Materials and Installation: Covers product quality, factory wiring identification, factory testing procedures (including government witnessing options), protection of materials during shipment and storage, and work performance standards, including safety protocols for energized electrical work.
• Equipment: Addresses installation requirements, working clearances, accessibility, and identification of equipment, including specific requirements for normal and essential electrical systems and arc flash warning labels.
• Submittals: Mandates submission of shop drawings, product data, test reports, certifications, and samples for government approval prior to delivery and installation. Maintenance and operation manuals are also required.
• Acceptance and Warranty: Outlines contractor responsibilities for testing, coordination of systems, and a one-year warranty period from the date of acceptance.

This document establishes the baseline technical requirements, standards, and procedures for all electrical installations under this contract. Bidders must understand these requirements to accurately estimate costs, plan execution, and ensure compliance with all specified codes, standards, and quality control measures. Key points for bidders include the prohibition of aluminum conductors, strict adherence to testing and certification standards, detailed submittal processes, and specific safety protocols for electrical work.

Other / Unclassified

This document is a General Decision Number (GDN) from the U.S. Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, detailing prevailing wage rates and fringe benefits for various construction-related trades in New York State. It includes specific rates for different counties and job classifications, such as Asbestos Workers, Boilermakers, Bricklayers, Carpenters, Electricians, Ironworkers, Laborers, and Power Equipment Operators.

This document is crucial for any bidder on a federal or federally-funded construction project in the specified New York counties. It establishes the minimum wage rates and fringe benefits that must be paid to laborers and mechanics employed on such projects, as required by the Davis-Bacon Act and related acts. Bidders must use these rates to accurately calculate labor costs in their proposals and ensure compliance with federal labor standards. The document also provides information on paid holidays, vacation pay, and the process for appealing wage determinations.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is a New York State Contractor Exempt Purchase Certificate (Form ST-120.1). It is used by contractors registered with the Tax Department to claim exemption from sales and use tax on purchases of tangible personal property or services when those purchases are for a specific project and meet certain criteria.

• Contractor Information: Name and address of the purchasing contractor.
• Seller Information: Name and address of the seller.
• Project Information: Location of the project and the prime contract details.
• Exemption Basis: A section where the contractor marks the specific reason for the tax exemption, referencing detailed explanations in the instructions (items A through S).
• Certification: A statement by the contractor certifying the accuracy of the information provided.

If this opportunity involves New York State contractors making purchases for a project, this form may be required. Bidders should understand the conditions under which this exemption certificate can be used to avoid sales and use tax on project-related purchases. It is crucial for contractors to correctly complete and provide this certificate to vendors to ensure compliance and avoid tax liability.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document is the "Buy American Certificate" provision (FAR 52.225-2, Oct 2022). It requires offerors to certify the domestic content of end products and critical components included in their proposals.

• Offeror Certification: Confirms that end products are domestic, except for those listed in paragraph (b), and that domestic end products contain a critical component.
• Foreign End Products: Requires listing line item numbers, country of origin, and whether they exceed 55% domestic content (if not COTS items).
• Domestic End Products with Critical Components: Requires separate listing of line item numbers for domestic end products containing a critical component.
• Definitions: Refers to definitions for "commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) item," "critical component," "domestic end product," "end product," and "foreign end product" as defined in the "Buy American-Supplies" clause.

Bidders must complete and submit this certificate as part of their proposal to demonstrate compliance with the Buy American Act. Failure to provide accurate information may impact offer evaluation and award.

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

To replace outdated and failed pad-mounted transformers (T1 and T2) at the St. Albans VA Medical Center to modernize the facility's electrical infrastructure, improve reliability, and enhance performance.

• Provide all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision to replace two 4160/120/208V, 500 kVA dual-stage transformers.

• Phase the work by replacing one transformer at a time, ensuring peak load requirements are met with generator rental backup or calculated load capacity of a single transformer.

• Coordinate transformer removal and monthly rental of a temporary transformer.

• Commission new transformers and provide a certified test report.

• Supply and install two factory/custom replacement transformers (5kV–208Y/120V, 500 kVA) meeting UL and DOE 2016 efficiency standards.

• Furnish, install, and test transformers with mineral oil.

• Build custom transformers to match existing size and design, ensuring compatibility.

• Comply with VA master specifications, infection control protocols, and VA Technical Information Library (TIL) Master Construction Specifications.

• Certified test report for new transformers.

• Independent third-party testing.

• Signed, sealed as-built shop drawings.

• Detailed reports available no sooner than 30 days after field testing completion.

• Performance Period: 52 weeks

• Location: St. Albans VA Medical Center, Queens NY

• Phasing plan for VA approval.

• Shutdown coordination plan for VA approval.

• Compliance with VA master specifications and infection control protocols.

• Compliance with VA TIL Master Construction Specifications.

• OSHA training and compliance with safety regulations.

• English-speaking supervisor with a minimum of five years of experience.

• VA Privacy and Information Security Awareness training for all personnel.

• Utilization of VISN 2 Autodesk Build Construction management platform (ACC).

• Any overtime, night, or weekend work is part of the bid.

• Any additional electrical or mechanical defects discovered will be reported immediately and require authorization for repair.

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a pre-solicitation notice for Solicitation No. 36C24226B0043, Project # 630A4-26-412, concerning the replacement of outdated pad-mounted transformers T1 and T2 at the St. Albans VA Campus in Queens, NY. The contractor will be responsible for providing all labor, materials, equipment, and supervision necessary for this replacement.

• Replacement of two pad-mounted transformers (T1 and T2).

• Transformers are specified as 4160/120/208V, 500 kVA dual stage with two feeders.

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed Price.

• Magnitude of Construction: Estimated between $500,000 and $1,000,000.

• Period of Performance: Within 52 weeks from the Notice to Proceed (NTP).

• The solicitation is anticipated to be issued on or about February 27, 2026.

• Solicitation documents, including Bid Details, Specifications, Drawings, and Contract Forms, will be available in electronic format only at https://www.sam.gov.

• All questions and Requests for Information (RFI) must be submitted in writing via email to Torell Camp, Contract Specialist, at torell.camp@va.gov.

• A site visit is planned; details will be provided in the solicitation. Attendance is strongly encouraged.

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

• Competition is restricted to verified SDVOSB Contractors.

• SDVOSBs must be registered and verified in SBA's Small Business Search (https://search.certifications.sba.gov/) and https://www.sam.gov at the time of offer submission and before award.

• Contractors must be registered at https://www.sam.gov in accordance with 38 CFR Part 74 and VAAR 819.70.

• NAICS Code: 236220 – Commercial and Institutional Building Construction, with a Size Standard of $45.0 million.

• This notice is a public synopsis and NOT a solicitation; no documents are currently available.

• An SOW (P09 630A4-26-412 SOW_112025) is attached.