|
Caltrans > Dist4 Internet > Dist4 Construction > Contract Inquiries > EA 04-1706U4 Inquiries |
CONTRACTOR'S INQUIRY RESPONSES
November 21, 2008
CONTRACT NO. 04-1706U4
SEISMIC RETROFIT - PHASE 2
County Route: ALA-880-30.1/31.1
The responses to contractors' inquiries, unless incorporated into a formal addenda to the contract, are not a part of the contract and are provided for the contractor's convenience only. In some instances, the question and answer may represent a summary of the matters discussed rather than a word-for-word recitation. The responses may be considered along with all other information furnished to prospective bidders for the purpose of bidding on the project. The availability or use of information provided in the responses to contractors' inquiries is not to be construed in any way as a waiver of the provisions of section 2-1.03 of the Standard Specifications or any other provision of the contract, the plans, Standard Specifications or Special Provisions, nor to excuse the contractor from full compliance with those contract requirements. Bidders are cautioned that subsequent responses or contract addenda may affect or vary a response previously given, and any such subsequent response or addenda should be taken into consideration when submitting a bid for the project. Inquiries submitted within seventy-two (72 ) hours of the bid opening date might not be addressed.
The Caltrans District 4 Office is located at 111 Grand Avenue, Oakland, CA 94612. Send Contractor Inquiries via email to the Duty Senior at Duty_Senior_District04@dot.ca.gov. The mailing address is P.O. Box 23660, Oakland, CA 94623-0660. The Duty Senior's telephone number is (510) 286-5209 and the fax number is (510) 622-1805. All inquiries must include the contract number.
| Inquiry No. | Inquiry | Response |
|
1.0 |
Where can I view or get a copy of the as-built drawings for the existing bridge No.33-0027? | Plans of the existing bridges may be requested by fax from the Office of Structure Maintenance and Investigations, 1801 30th Street, Sacramento, CA, Fax (916) 227-8357. |
|
2.0 |
When and where will cross sections be available for this contract? | Cross sections are available for purchase from Ford Graphics, 2210 Magnolia Street (near West Grand Ave.), Oakland, CA 94607; phone (510) 451-9060, fax (510) 595-2363. These documents are also available for inspection by appointment at the Department of Transportation, Duty Senior's Desk, 111 Grand Ave, Oakland,CA; phone (510) 286-5209. |
|
3.0 |
On sheet 396 pile load test details:
b. ?Cap Assembly? - Is this contractor or state supplied? For contractor supplied, we need specific details. c. Anchor Pile Elevation - Anchor Pile Head... If this is contractor supplied, we need specific details. d. Section D-D... Is the test pile in fact 2.44 ID as shown, instead of 2.44 OD like all the production pile? |
Refer to Addendum No. 1. |
|
4.0 |
Section 2-1.013 calls for a mandatory prebid meeting. Where and when is this meeting going to occur? |
See Addendum 1 issued on January 25, 2008. |
|
5.0 |
On sheet 112, it shows that there's a K-rail that starts on Line Y5R 96+40 and it doesn't show where it ends. In addition, the quantity is not even in the Stage Construction K-rail Quantity sheet - sheet 195. Please clarify. |
See Addendum 3. |
|
6.0 |
Is epoxy coating required for Bid Item 128? Please advised. | No epoxy coating is required for Bid Item 128. |
|
7.0 |
Due to our estimating staff?s current bid volume, we would like to request a 2 week extension to the bid opening date in order to provide a thorough and complete cost estimate. | Addendum 1 changed the bid date to March 26, 2008 from February 5, 2008. |
|
8.0 |
Refer to the sign structure foundation plan on sheet 232 of 425. Please clarify which bid item (s) are to be used for the construction of the footing (i.e. excavation, backfill, rebar, and structural concrete). | See Addendum 3. |
|
9.0 |
Refer to sheet 338 of 425. Note #3 calls for the placement of slurry cement backfill at various CISS locations, and refers to the Road Plans for quantities and detail. We cannot find any reference to this work in the Road Plans. It also appears that this work should be covered by Bid item #81, but there is no information in the plans to support this. Please clarify. | After removal of the existing colums, slurry cement is for backfill to match the existing paved area. |
|
10.0 |
Refer to Sheet 248 of 425. At the bottom of the plan sheet, there is a reference to "Shotcrete Facing No. 6". There is no wall No. 6 on the layout sheets. Please clarify. |
An addendum has been requested for the following:
Shotcrete facing No. 6 shall be changed to Shotcrete Facing No. 1. |
|
11.0 |
Refer to sheet 331 of 425. Note #17 calls for the placement of slurry cement backfill at Bents 27 to 39, and refers to the Road Plans. We cannot find any reference to this work in the Road Plans. It also appears that this work should be covered by Bid item #81, but there is no information in the plans to support this. Please clarify. | After removal of the existing colums, slurry cement is for backfill to match the existing paved area. |
|
12.0 |
Is the vertical datum (NAVD 1988) the same as that used for the existing bridge? If not, what is the differential? | To convert, multiply 0.3048 to as build plans NGVD 29 imperial unit and add 2.703. This will get NAVD 88 in metric unit. |
|
13.0 |
Refer to Sheet 27 of 425. We interpret note #1 to mean that all excavated material on the project not addressed in the table, or in notes #2 and #3 on the same sheet, shall be disposed at a Class I Facility, and may not be reused on site for backfill or embankment. This would include all roadway excavation under existing pavement, all trench excavation for drainage and electrical, along with any other material excavation not addressed on Sheet 27. Is this correct? | All excavations for roadway, drainage, electrical, etc. are not to be automatically disposed of at a class I hazardous waste facility. Note 1 means any soil from an excavation located within the hatched or cross-hatched areas shown on the plans that is not part of the defined bent or abutment excavations shall be disposed of at a class 1 landfill. |
|
14.0 |
Drawing C-17, Sheet 39 of 425, Construction Details, of the contract plans contains sections of the temporary preload embankment and geosynthetic reinforced embankment as well as 2 tables locating the preload areas in chart form. The chart in the center of the page pertains to preload locations for the north abutment. The chart indicates that a preload embankment is to be installed during Stage 3A between stations 105+82 and 106+50. Sheet SC-22, Sheet 123 of 425, contains the Stage 3 Phase A Construction requirements. Item 2 designates the location(s) where the wick drain and preload embankments are to be installed. Sheet SC-26, sheet 127 of 425, includes the stationing just north of the north abutment including Sta. 105+82 and 106+50. Based on the tables on sheet C-17 there should be a location where the preload is to be installed. It appears that either the chart is wrong or the area requiring the preload embankment on SC-26 is not shown. |
Addendum has been requested to delete the "Stage 3 Phase A " from the "TEMPORARY PRELOAD EMBANKMENT HEIGHT NORTH ABUTMENT" table on sheet C-17 . |
|
15.0 |
Reference Drawings 326 - 331 Stage bridge removal is not clearly illustrated for all bents, only for bents 23-29, which are over the UPRR lines. Please illustrate Stage bridge removal for all bents. |
For further information regarding stage bridge removal, refer to Plan Sheet 319 of 425, "5th Avenue Overhead (Replace), General Plan." |
|
16.0 |
Specials pages 43,297, &298- Measurement and Payment (Piling)-Where is rebar for 1219mm,1830mm, & 2440mm piles paid for? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
17.0 |
Specials page 311 and plan sht. 342- note12- are hoops epoxy coated at bents 2 thru 7 only, or at all bents per note 12? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
18.0 |
Plan sht. 342 note 12, 360 note 5, 361 note 6, & 362 note 5- Is rebar coated before fabrication or after fabrication? Notes are not clear, post fabricated coating is normally purple or gray, please clarify. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
19.0 |
Can Caltrans provide the as-built drawings for the timber railroad bridge to be removed? The bidders for this project do not have any contractual relationship with the railroad in order to get the as-built drawings. | No. Caltrans cannot provide as-built drawing for the timber railroad bridge. The as-built drawing can be obtained from UPRR. |
|
20.0 |
Due to the number of unanswered bidders inquiries, complexity of the project, lost time during the holidays, currently unscheduled mandatory pre-bid meeting and delays in receiving as-built information; we request the current bid date be postponed four weeks allowing bidders sufficient time to prepare competitive bids. | See response to Inquiry No. 7. |
|
21.0 |
Section 10-1.27 of the Special Provisions indicates that the relocation of existing utilities by others occurred in 2007. It is apparent, however, that the overhead lines along the left side of the freeway from Y5R STA 97 to STA 102, and STA 106 to STA 108 have not been relocated yet. Will the overhead lines be relocated and, If so, when? | Overhead lines will be relocated by the end of July 2008. |
|
22.0 |
Refer to Sheets 11 through 13 of 425. The plans indicate that the railroad located between existing Rte 880 and Embarcadero is to be removed by others. The Special Provisions do not provide any schedule dates or durations for this work. Please clarify when the existing railroad will be removed. | The existing tracks between Rte 880 and Embarcadero will be removed by UPRR prior to start of construction. |
|
23.0 |
Special Provision Section 10-1.22 states that payment for temporary timber bulkhead will be based on actual count, while Sections 10-1.89 and 10-1.90 state that the cost for temporary timber bulkheads shall be included in the unit price for pipe, and no separate payment will be made. How will the Contractor be paid for Temporary Timber Bulkheads? | Addendum pending. |
|
24.0 |
Refer to Sheets 352 and 353 of 425. Is all rebar within the steel casing below pile cutoff elevation to be paid under "Furnish Cast-In-Steel-Shell Concrete Piling" and all rebar above the pile cutoff line to be paid under "Bar Reinforcing Steel (Bridge)"? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
25.0 |
Refer to Sheet 389 of 425 and Special Provision Section 10-1.81. For Isolation Casing work, the plans and specs do not define the method of payment for the minor concrete base. Please specify. In addition, please confirm that the steel casing, cover plate, support angles and all hardware for isolation casings are to be paid under bid item 172. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
26.0 |
Refer to Sheet 338 of 425. Note #2 requires that existing battered piles at abutments 1 and 50 be removed to 1 meter below O.G. and left in place. The abutment footings, however, are already more than 1 meter below O.G. Are the abutment footings to be removed regardless of depth, or can they be left in place per note #13 on sheet 331 of 425? | The abutment footings should be removed as specified on plan sheet 331 of 425, "Bridge Removal Details No. 5," Note 13. |
|
27.0 |
Refer to sheet 40 of 425. Note 2 indicates that existing bridge structure within temp preload embankment area is to be removed per Standard Specification 15-4.02 before start of preloading. This Specification allows structures more than .3M below grade to be left in place. Since the wick drain layout will conflict with existing footings, is the wick drain layout to be modified to avoid conflict with existing footings left in place, or is the contractor required to completely remove the footings in the preload areas? |
In reference to sheet 40 of 425, Note 2 shall be deleted from the plans. The wick drain layout shall be field modified to avoid conflicts with existing bridge structures. |
|
28.0 |
Duplicate Question and Answer (see BI 27) |
|
|
29.0 |
Who is responsible for the removal of existing track and other Railroad facilities that conflict with the permanent construction within the Railroad Impacted area under Frame 2? (for example, track #4 must be removed prior to the construction of foundation at Bent 10 left). | See Addendum 3. |
|
30.0 |
Sheet 346 of 425 ?Bent 15-17 Stage 1? show Pipe Pins at both columns. Bents 16 & 17 are noted to be similar. Are we to assume there are Pipe Pins at both columns at these two bents as well? Please clarify how many columns require a column shear pin (Pipe Pin) as detailed on sheet 388 of 425. | Refer to plan sheet 349 of 425, "Bent 15-17 Stage 1." Pipe pins are required at both columns of Bents 15, 16, and 17 of stage 1. |
|
31.0 |
a) What is the extent of removal required for the bridge piers located in the Lake Merrit Channel. b) And requirements and restrictions for performing work in the channel. |
a) Refer to the Standard Specifications, Section 15 "Existing Highway Facilities," subsection 15-4.02 "Removal Methods," paragraph 4:
b) The BCDC, ACOE and California Regional Water Quality Control Board permits specify all the requirements and restrictions. |
|
32.0 |
Bridge demolition details for piers1 through 22 and 30 through 50 do not indicate any removal (such as shown for bents 23-29). Please clarify. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised.. |
|
33.0 |
Note 13 on plansheet 331 refers to "top of footing." Is this term synonymous with "pile cap". | Yes. |
|
34.0 |
Re: Placement of temporary k-rail in the traffic handling plans between Stage 2 Phase A and Stage 2 Phase B. In sheet #112 (SC-11 Stage 2 Phase A), temporary k-rail is noted to begin on the left side of the south bound lane being constructed starting at station 36+40. This continues on into the next page. But in sheet #113(SC-12 Stage 2 Phase A), the temporary k-rail does not continue on. If you take a look sheet #119 (SC-18 Stage 2 Phase B), the same k-rail is noted again and continues on to sheet #122 (SC-1 Stage 2 Phase B). It can be assumed that k-rail does indeed need to be placed along this line. The question is, does it occur in Phase A (during construction) or Phase B (after construction)? |
See Addendum 3. An addendum has been requested. |
|
35.0 |
Specs call fro Epoxy Coating Column Hoops Bents 2-7. Plans show all bents per detail B-B, All columns. Please clarify. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
36.0 |
We need details for Girdle Closure Pours and Bent Cap Closure Pours. No Details are shown. How do we splice rebar? | Splices of transverse reinforcement at slab closure pour shall be lap splices as specified on plan sheet 361 of 425, "Typical Section Stage 2," Note No. 4. Splices of main reinforcement at bent cap closure pour shall be ultimate splices as specified on plan sheet 342 of 425, "Bents 2-7 Stage 1," Note No. 6. |
|
37.0 |
The railroad section of the special provisions does not have the typical Exhibit A that provides the number of tracks, trains, etc. anticipated. This information is required for insurance companies to provide quotes for the railroad protective insurance. Please provide the railroad information required such as trains, tracks, frequency, etc. | Caltrans does not have this information. This information has to be obtained from UPRR during construction. |
|
38.0 |
For 2.44 m ciss pile to get started can you pre drill and vibrate and what are the horizontal tolerances at cut off? |
Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
39.0 |
Regarding the size of the 2440 mm pile The drawings (specifically sheet 25/95 for the bridge, section C-C) show the Diameter of the pile as 2.440 OD The drawings (specifically sheet 78/95 for the bridge, section D-D) show the Diameter of the Load test pile to be 2.440 ID This small differential has big cost consequences. Please correct or verify that this is really what you want. |
Refer to Addendum No. 1. |
|
40.0 |
Plan Sheet 330 indicates the temporary support locations only at Bents 36,37, and 39. It appears temp supports would be required at some of the concrete bents also. For example,at Bents 24 and 27 following the cap removal traffic is on a long cantilevered portion of the cap that remains until Stage 3 removal. Has Caltrans checked the loads on the cantilever portion of the remaining caps on these and other concrete bent locations? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. |
|
41.0 |
Page 259 of the Specifications, paragraph 5 of Bridge Removal;what is the reason for the Engineer's written permission requirement to remove Bent 22? What is the time frame for approval? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
42.0 |
Plan Sheet 331 Note 11 directs the Contractor to submit partial removal limits of existing steel bent caps 36 to 39. Shouldn't the contract drawings indicate the limits of removal? Please clarify. | Refer to plan sheet 326 of 425, "Demolition Plan," for partial removal limits of existing steel bent caps 36 to 39. |
|
43.0 |
Plan Sheet 331 Note 19. Can you please restate the intent of this note? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. |
|
44.0 |
Where is bid item # 166 (1 m3 of class 3 permeable material) located on the plans? This item doesn't appear in the summary of quantities. | Bid Item 166 (permeable material) will be deleted. |
|
45.0 |
Are there any particular requirements for working around the Detention Basin located under the existing structure between existing Bents 7 and 8? | No particular requirement is required. |
|
46.0 |
The Specifications include requirements for working over and around the Lake Merritt Channel, but there is demolition work at existing Bents 40, 41, and 42 and the Railroad Bridge (Location B) that will take place in the Channel. What are the requirements for this work? | The BCDC, ACOE and California Regional Water Quality Control Board permits specify all the requirements and restrictions. |
|
47.0 |
The drawings seem to indicate that the Lake Merritt Channel will be enlarged. At what stage of the work is this to take place? | There are no plans to enlarge Lake Merritt Channel in this project . There is a plan to perform wetland mitigation and this work will be done in Stage 5. |
|
48.0 |
The Specifications indicate that some documents for this Contract are on file at the District 4 Headquarters. Must we make an appointment to view these documents or are they available any time? |
Please contact the Duty Senior for an appointment to view the files. See response to Inquiry No. 1 for contact information. These same files are available for purchase from Ford Graphics. |
|
49.0 |
For Stage 1 of the 5th Ave. Overhead demolition work, is it the intent to remove the deck and bents to the existing widening project construction joint, or there is some other dimension that will be used? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. |
|
50.0 |
What rail traffic will be rerouted onto the shoofly tracks and which existing tracks will be taken out of service when the shoofly tracks are in place? Which tracks will be in service at each stage of the work? | Once a shoofly has been constructed, an eight-hour working window will be allowed on either main Track No.1 or main Track No. 2 for each contract working day, to be agreed in advance by the Railroad. During the designated eight-hour window, the Contractor may occupy either main Track No.1 or main Track No.2 subject to the window. However, the other main track, the stage 1 shoofly or stage 2 shoofly, and Track No. 3 will continue to be in service and unobstructed during the window period. |
|
51.0 |
The Specifications indicate that there will be a Pre-Bid Meeting for the project. When is that meeting scheduled to take place? | See Addendum 1, issued on January 25, 2008. |
|
52.0 |
Are the metal rails of the existing structure to be salvaged for CalTrans or are they included with the demolition? | Railing on existing structure are included in the demolition. |
|
53.0 |
Bid Item 84, Geosynthetic Reinforcement is described in the Special Provisions as being made of polyester yarn only. This is extremely unusual. For over 2O years Caltrans has always included other polymers such as HDPE or polypropylene. Is the limitation deliberate or an oversight? Can HDPE and polyproylene with equal Long Term Design Strength also be considered? | The geosynthetic reinforcement is limited to a high tenacity polyester reinforcement material. The limitation is intentional. |
|
54.0 |
We have some concerns about the design using the Geocomposite drain. We question the flow capacity of the drain and we question putting the drain 1' to2' below the working pad. When we punch thru the fill and thru the geocomposite drain we punch a hole that allows the fill to fall around the drain and the wick material loosing the connection between the two and slowing down consolidation. | The Contract Plans and Specifications for this project do not require you to do this. |
|
55.0 |
What is the correlation between the "Y5R" line stations provided for the new 5th Ave Overhead structure and that provided in the As-built drawing for the existing structure? (One is in metric and the other is in imperial.) | To convert, multiply 0.3048 to as build plans NGVD 29 imperial unit and add 2.703. This will get NAVD 88 in metric unit. |
|
56.0 |
What is the correlation between vertical elevation provided for the existing structure and that for the new 5th Ave Overhead structure? The As-built drawings indicate the O.G. under the existing structure between bents #47 to Abutment #50 is approximately at elevation 5.00 (ft), the design drawing sheet 338 of 425 for the same location provide existing O.G. as between elevation 2.75 and 3.25 (in metric?). Please clarify. | See answer to Bidder Inquiry #55. |
|
57.0 |
As-built drawings you have provided only address the widening of the existing 5th Ave Overhead structure. Can you please provide additional information for the existing abutment and bent foundations for the portions of structure that will require complete removal during the installation of wick drains? Can the location of the wick drains be adjusted in the field to avoid removal of the existing timber piles? | In order to avoid conflicts, the wick drain layout can be field modified. |
|
58.0 |
Please clarify the following with regards to the wick drain installation and required preload embankment per the drawings:
|
i) In order to avoid conflicts, the wick drain layout can be field modified. ii) The limits should be 98+08 to 98+56. iii) Yes. |
|
59.0 |
Doing a take off of barrier rail from X- sections seems like the quantity is off on type 60 rail I come up with around 1409 M. There is some barrier unlabeled on sheet #7 | No plans or quantity change for Concrete barrier. |
|
60.0 |
Pertaining to the drainage system, where are the details for ?INLET IN BARRIER SLAB? (per drainage system 7, 9, and 16)? | The details for "INLET IN BARRIER SLAB" is shown on Plan Sheet 36 of 425. |
|
61.0 |
There are discrepancies between the inlet IDs in the drainage quantities and the drainage system drawings:
|
a. Drainage system 6c is a GD inlet. On profile sheet 62 of 425, drainage system 6c should be labeled GD inlet with SGD. b. Drainage system 13c is a G1 inlet with SGD. On quantities sheet 90 of 425, system 13c should be labeled as G1 Inlet. c. Drainage system 15a is a GD inlet. On plan sheet 58 of 425 and profile sheet 70 of 425, system 15a should be labeled as GD inlet. |
|
62.0 |
The plans do not list any model for the parts going into the irrigation system, but there are specifications that list requirements for the parts. Is there any document on the Caltrans website that lists the standard model numbers for Caltrans jobs, or is it simply up to the specifications? | Caltrans does not recommend any proprietary item or manufacturer by policy. The contractor is responsible for following the "salient characteristics" stated in the specifications. |
|
63.0 |
The sprinkler schedule lists the sprinkler/rotors as Type A-1, B-2, etc. The specifications don't mention what these mean and we are not familiar with the callout. Which Caltrans document specifies what these "types" mean? Is this document available on the website or must it be purchased from a Caltrans office? | Please refer to the Sprinkler Schedule Sheet LD-1; this sheet lists all the requirements for each sprinkler according to specific requirements for each item. Again, Caltrans does not list proprietary items by policy. |
|
64.0 |
In the traffic plans of Stage 3A and Stage 4, there is hatching across 5th AVE that is very similar to those hatching indicated for the train protective covers (though in different orientations). What do those hatchings indicate? Protective covers for the road? | Hatching across 5th ave on sheet 126 (stage 3A) and sheet 136 ( stage 4 ) are protective cover. |
|
65.0 |
Can you clarify how the payment for the excavation/removal of imported borrow material placed in the pre-load areas after the settlement period is paid for? And, were is this excavation quantity designated in the summary of Qty's? | Import borrow for preloading shall become the property of the Contractor after preload is completed" See SSP page 263 paragraph 4. |
|
66.0 |
On Sheet C13 Bike Path Section A-A, is the structural section shown (75mm AC, 150mm AS4) existing or new to be constructed? | Structure section (75mmAC,150mm AS4 ) on Section A A on C13 are existing structure section. |
|
67.0 |
Referring to the Caltrans Informational Handout, the California Regional Quality Control Board Permit (File No. 2198.09 (bkw), dated 30 June 2005, page 1:
|
The BCDC, ACOE and California Regional Water Quality Control Board permits specify all the requirements and restrictions. |
|
68.0 |
Referring to Sections 13-1.03 (Protection of Railroad Facilities) and 13-1.04 (Work by Railroad)
a) It appears, with approval of the Railroad, the State will pay the Railroad to place temporary construction access crossings. Please confirm this for bidding purposes. |
a) The information shown in Section 13-1.04 is correct. b) Caltrans do not have trains schedule and frequency information. This information has to be obtained from UPRR during construction. |
|
69.0 |
Sheet 346 of 425 "Bent 15-17 Stage 1" show Pipe Pins at both columns. Bents 16 & 17 are noted to be similar. Are we to assume there are Pipe Pins at both columns at these two bents as well? Please clarify how many columns require a column shear pin (Pipe Pin) as detailed on sheet 388 of 425. | Refer to plan sheet 349 of 425, "Bent 15-17 Stage 1." Pipe pins are required at both columns of Bents 15, 16 and 17 of Stage 1. |
|
70.0 |
Referring to sheets 328/329 of 425 of the Contract Drawings, what are the temporary support design loads for the staged demolition of Bents 23 thru 29 (Some Bent Supports over UPRR Tracks)? Also, does this get paid under the Temporary Support Bid Item (#5)? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. |
|
71.0 |
Referring to sheet 344/425, does the temporary support erection and removal, at Bent 10, get paid under the Temporary Support Bid Item (#5)? | Yes. |
|
72.0 |
Referring to sheets 327 and 328 of 425 of the Contract Drawings, we need the temporary support loads for existing Bridge Bents 5 thru 22, per stage, for construction of the new structure. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. |
|
73.0 |
Referring to Section 5-1.17 (Project Information) of the Special Provisions, the plans of the existing bridges: The initial design (1946) does not include the engineering design values (structural steel, rebar, concrete) for the initial structure. The 1954 widening does. Can we assume these are the same as the initial design? |
No additional information will be provided. Bid per the current contract bid documents. |
|
74.0 |
We have concerns regarding the design of the 2440 MM CIDH pile tips. According to our analysis, the majority of the pile will require a hammer that is not suited for a land based applications. This is even more critical on the 3-1830 MM CIDH pile that must be driven off the existing bridge structure. Your design is based on a specified tip elevation and a bearing capacity. There are a few available hammers that will give us the specified bearing capacity; however, in order to get the specified tip, we will have to go to a much larger hammer (requiring a much larger crane) the larger hammers that I am referring to are the Menck hydraulic hammers. (These are the hammers that we used on the Skyway project and the Benicia project. My question is this: With respect to the two test piles, will the tip elevations be raised to the point where the pile capacity has been achieved? Will lateral capacity have design precedence over compression loading? |
Pile tip elevations may be revised, but pile lateral capacity does have design precedence over compression loading. |
|
75.0 |
Referring to page 219 (Temporary Supports) and page 259 (Bridge Removal) of the Special Provisions, we have questions on the following: a) Referring to sheets 327/328 of 425 of the Contract Drawings, are we to assume Abutment 1 thru Bent 22 substructure (Bent Columns and Bent Caps) are to remain in place until after Stage 3 Bridge Construction. Also, referring to sheet 329 of 425, does Bent 30 through Bent 35 substructure remain in place until after Stage 3 Bridge Construction. b) Referring to sheets 328/329 of 425 of the Contract Drawings, what are the temporary support design loads for the staged demolition of Bents 23 thru 29. (Some Bent Supports over UPRR Tracks) Also, does this get paid under the Temporary Support Bid Item (#5)? c) Referring to sheet 344/425, does the temporary support erection and removal at Bent 10 get paid under the Temporary Support Bid Item (#5)? |
a) Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. b) Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Plans have been revised. c) Yes. |
|
76.0 |
The documents on file at the District Office include information on the sampling for hazardous soil and water contaminants around the existing structure. The Specs indicate that there is lead based paint on the existing painted steel components of the structure but there is no report of this survey on file. Please make the results to that sampling available as well. | Download the Asbestos and Lead-Containg Paint Survey below: |
|
77.0 |
Note 16 on Sheet 331, Bridge Removal Details No.5 states that "partial removal of the collision wall is allowed, then protect the remaining section", indicating the walls are to remain. Also, the Bridge Removal details sheets 1 thru 4 don't indicate removal of the walls. The collision80 walls from Bents 22 to 29 and Bents 36 to 39 are connected to the bent columns being removed. Please clarify how the collision walls are to remain. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
78.0 |
Sheet 327, Bridge Removal Details No.1 does not show the limits of removal at Abutments 1 and 50. Notes on Sheets 333 and 338 state that the piles at Abutments 1 and 50 are to be removed 1M below grade. Please clarify that the footings and piles at Abutments 1 and 50 are to be removed under Item 69. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
79.0 |
Sheet 338 Note 3 states "Remove concrete interference with CISS construction. Under what Item is this concrete removal paid? | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
80.0 |
What is the railroad work window for the removal of the existing bents next to the active tracks? | An eight-hour working window will be allowed on either main Track No.1 or main Track No. 2 for each contract working day, to be agreed in advance by the Railroad. During the designated eight-hour window, the Contractor may occupy either main Track No.1 or main Track No.2 subject to the window. However, the other main track, the stage 1 shoofly or stage 2 shoofly, and Track No. 3 will continue to be in service and unobstructed during the window period. |
|
81.0 |
Please clarify that the post tensioning strand for the longitudinal concrete beams on plan sheets 46 - 54 (of 96) should be bare or epoxy coated. | The post tensioning strands are not epoxy coated. |
|
82.0 |
What is the actual MR for each joint seal assembly at Hinge 6 and Hinge 12? (Refr. sht 382/425). | Refer to "Chart A" on plan sheet "PTFE Details No. 2," page 385 of 425. |
|
83.0 |
In PDQ 1 through 3, it appears that Caltrans is calling out for detail 13M. However, the Table "Thermoplastic Traffic Stripe" 100 mm, White, Broken 5.18m-2.14m, does not match the striping pattern for a Detail 13. That striping pattern would be 10.98m-3.66m. Also, in the Engineers Estimate, there is no Bid Item for Thermoplastic Traffic Stripe, broken, 5.18m-2.14m, or any other broken traffic stripe. Please advise. |
There is no detail 13M on PDQ1-3 in striping. |
|
84.0 |
It appears that Item 202 and 203 include all markers for the entire project, including temporary pavement markers. Why then is there an item (#32) that calls out for additional temporary pavement markers? These quantities don't seem to add up when reviewing totals on PDQ 3. Please advise. | Item 32, Temporary Pavement Marker, is from sheet 194 of 425 (SCQ-11). |
|
85.0 |
Referencing Section 5-1.25 (Hazardous and Restricted Material), Section 10-1.48 (Hazardous and Restricted Material Excavation) and Section 10-1.07 (De-Watering and Non-Storm Water Discharge Control): Regarding the Groundwater Treatment System (GTS), what is the scope of contaminated water that will be encountered (i.e. the degree and type of contamination) for this project? | The organic groundwater contaminants reported in the site investigation consisted of: volatile aromatic compounds benzene and ethylbenzene, each as high as 0.004 mg/L; the chlorinated solvent chloromethane as high as 0.0034 mg/L; and numerous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, the highest concentrations being benzo(b)fluoranthene, benzo(k)fluoranthene, fluoranthene, and pyrene all at 0.2 mg/L. |
|
86.0 |
Referring to Section 10-1.48 (Hazardous and Restricted Material Excavation), and sheet 332/425 (Pile Data), is the contaminated pile spoil quantity included in Bid Item #78 Structure Excavation (Hazardous Waste and Restricted Material). Please confirm. | Pending an addendum request. |
|
87.0 |
The response to Inquiry #3.0 was "Refer to Addendum No. 1". Addendum No. 1 addressed responses to Inquiry 3.0a, 3.0b, 3.0d; however details regarding the Anchor Pile Head (Inquiry 3.0c) have not been clarified.
b) In addition, a CJP weld to splice the Anchor Pile Head to the Anchor Pile is shown on sheet 396. Is this work included in Bid Item 113 or will it be paid for as extra work with the installation of the State-furnished steel load beams (Paragraph 9 of Standard Spec Section 49-1.04)? |
a) Yes, per Addendum No. 1, dated January 25, 2008, the Anchor Pile Heads are provided by others. b) Per Section 49-1.04 "Load Test Piles," of the Standard Specifications, this work is paid for as extra work. |
|
88.0 |
Please clarify the following issues regarding the Bridge Deck Drainage System
b) Sheet 368 and 371 shows a drainage pipe down the Bent 12 Stage 2 column and Bent 12 Stage 3 right column. Sheet 58 does not show a storm drainage system to tie into at Bent 12. Please clarify what system to tie into. c) Sheet 369 and 372 shows a drainage pipe down the Bent 13 Stage 2 column and Bent 13 Stage 3 right column. Sheet 58 does not show a storm drainage system to tie into at Bent 13. Please clarify what system to tie into. d) Sheet 366 does not show a drainage deck drain or system on Stage 1 Span 17 left shoulder. Sheet 323 shows a deck drain at Station 105+71.345 left shoulder. Please clarify if a deck drainage system exists on Span 17 left shoulder. |
a) There is a deck drain on Sta 100+92 and the symbol was not drawn. An addendum to draw the deck inlet symbol was issued on February 28, 2008. b)On Bent 12, water from the bridge column pipe will be surface drain. c)On Bent 13, water from the bridge column pipe will be surface drain. d)See Addendum 3. |
|
89.0 |
Is there any reason we can't drive pile and build abutment before wick drains and preload. | See SSP page 263 para 6. |
|
90.0 |
In reviewing the RFI log for the Rte 880 job. Question #38 states that vibro hammers will not be allowed. You need to rethink this answer. Because of the size of the pile, the hammer and the cranes necessary to do this work, it will be a much riskier operation to install the first piece of steel pile with out the use of a Vibro Hammer. The vibro hammer weights about 50K and the first piece of pile weights about 100K for a total pick of 150K. This size pick will require a M250 crane which is quite large for such a tight access area. If you do not allow for the vibro to set the first piece, a huge template will be required. Because the crane cannot handle both the impact hammer and the pile at the same time. BTW the impact hammer to drive these pile weighs 150 K including the drive cap and leads. What did Caltrans have in mind for an installation sequence (remember, we do not have the DB General to do this work!) |
Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
91.0 |
We have concerns with the drivability of the Class 625 Alternative V Abutment Piles. The tip elevations for the closed tip PP360 x 6.35 will be difficult to attain without damaging the pile since it has such a thin wall thickness (1/4 ). It is common that 14 (0.360mm) pipe piling is supplied with minimum 0.375 (9.53mm) wall thickness but recommended to be thicker for these driving conditions. Please consider increasing the pile thickness to min. 11.11mm (7/16 ) thick and advise if this will be acceptable. | Refer to Addendum No. 3, dated April 25, 2008, the Special Provisions have been revised. |
|
92.0 |
Referring to the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission Permit 3-05 (dated 21 July 2005), Section 2-h:
b. Where does this get paid for? c. Are there any general, landscaping and lighting details and plans? d. Does the contractor re-stripe the Laney College parking lot? |
a. Yes. b. Various landscape and electrical pay items to cover these work . c. See plans sheet 35,253,255 and 269. d. No. |
|
93.0 |
When is the next addendum going to be issued, to clear up these questions? | Addendum 2 was issued on March 13, moving the bid open date to May 14. Another addendum is anticipated as reflected in "Pending Addendum" responses to some of the questions. |
|
94.0 |
If the UPRR tracks located between the South side of the existing structure and Embarcadero are going to be a issue' when can we get an update regarding the status of the bid, so we can maixmize out estimating efforts/resources? | Contractor will need to prepare the bid in accordance with the advertised contract and any issued addendums. |
|
95.0 |
When is the inquiry status sheet going to be updated, with current questions (Last update 3 Mar 2008)? | We were experiencing some server problems. Updates should start come in more timely manner. |
|
96.0 |
There are several dozen unanswered questions from the Bidders Inquiry as of March 11, 2008. The second addendum and revised drawings have not yet been produced as well. We respectively request a 2 to 3 week bid extension for submitting bids. | Please see response to Bidder Inquire #93. |
|
97.0 |
How is grind concrete shown on sheet no. 175 SCD-1 paid for? | See quantity table on sheet 197 ( SCQ-14), and pay item111,GrindExisting Concrete Pavement. |
|
98.0 |
Drawing 40 of 425, note 2 states: The existing bridge structure within the temp preload embankment areas shall be removed per section 15-4.02 of the standard specification before preloading start. Drawing 331 of 425, Note No. 8 states: No parts of the existing substructure (bent caps, columns, footings, abutments, collision walls, tie walls or existing temp supports) shall be removed unless approved by the engineer.
|
|
|
99.0 |
As Addendum No. 3 has added the requirements of 1) no work for the first 180 calendar days (6 months) in the areas between the existing edge of traveled way and temporary construction easement from Y5R Station 95+00 Lt to 101+60 Lt and in the Railroad Impacted Area as shown on the plans, 2) 6 months for the Railroad to construct Shoofly No. 1 and 3) 6 months for the Railroad to construct Shoofly No. 2, and these restrictions will directly impact the progress of the work, we request that the maximum number of working days bid be increased from 1370 by 18 months to 1750 days in order to compensate for the above changes. | The State believes that a maximum of 1370 working days is adequate, even with the added requirements of Addendum 3. |
|
100.0 |
Review of the ShoteCrete Wall 1 thru 5, on sheets 241 to 251 of the project plans do not indicate any rebar or reinforcement. Please confirm if there is a requirement and what is the detailing? | Rebar or reinforcement detail for shotcrete are shown on sheet 36 (C-14). |
|
101.0 |
Please confirm, if storm drainage lines located within the Cellular Concrete fill regions need to follow the trenching requirements as outlined in the Standard Specification section 19-3.02 Excavation for Culverts, where embankment (cellular concrete) will be installed as indicated per Standard Detail A62D or A62F prior to trenching. | It is permissible to set the storm drainage lines located within Cellular Concrete fill regions to their planned elevations and then to pour cellular concrete around them. |
|
102.0 |
Please confirm that the structural backfill for trenches can be cellular concrete and not the required backfill as outlined in section 19-3.06 of the Standard Specifications (i.e. non-light weight material) or can we set drainage lines on or to grade then pour/fill cellular concrete around them? | If needed, backfill for trenches located within the Cellular Concrete fill regions can be cellular concrete. It is also permissible to set the storm drainage lines located within Cellular Concrete fill regions to their planned elevations and then to pour cellular concrete around them. |
|
103.0 |
Re: Sheet 342 Note#12; Sheet 360 Note #5; Sheet 361 Note #6; Sheet 362 Note #5. All these Notes call for (post Fabricated) epoxy coated (green). Special Provisions Section 10-1.77 calls for pre-fab epoxy ASTM A034/A934M which is purple or gray epoxy coating. Please clarify or correct plansheet notes. |
Please note, both types are being used. Section 10-1.77, "REINFORCEMENT," has two Subsections. In Subsection "EPOXY-COATED REINFORCEMENT," the bar reinforcement in the upper No. 19 transverse bar reinforcement in bridge decks and bundled hoops in columns at all bents shall be epoxy-coated. In Subsection "EPOXY-COATED PREFABRICATED REINFORCEMENT," bar reinforcing steel for use in concrete barriers shall conform to the provisions in "Epoxy-Coated Prefabricated Reinforcement." |
|
104.0 |
Provide details of construction of Bid item 127 (Minor Concrete). Reference is provided on Sheet Q-2 under the table for the roadway quantity summary, however we are unable to find the construction details for this work. | See sheet No 2 (X-1) and No. 8 (X-7) .Minor Concrete are used in structural section 2. For location see layout sheets. |
|
105.0 |
When is the new addendum going to be issued? | See Addendum 5 dated 6/9/2008. |
|
106.0 |
Provide details and dimensions for shoofly construction. | For shoofly information see revised Section 13 in addendum No 3. |
|
107.0 |
We have posted queries which have not been answered. Major effort will be required once the answers are provided. Your urgent answer is required to bid the project. When will all the queries be answered? | Queries are answered and posted after a thorough investigation. |
|
108.0 |
We are able to find the only the following scope of work under bid item 5 (Temporary Support):
|
The locations as stated are correct for the work under bid item #5. There are no other locations for temporary supports. Bid per the current contract bid documents. |
|
109.0 |
Will it be allowed to install reaction piles prior to and out of sequence of the test pile at each control location? | Yes, if built per the plans and dimensions. |
|
110.0 |
Does the 10-day notification required under section "Load Test Piles" of the Special Provisions also apply to Dynamic Monitoring? | No. Section 10-1.69, "Piling," in the special provisions requires the Contractor to notify the Engineer, in writing, not less than 10 days in advance of drilling the load test piles. Section 10-1.69, "Piling," in the special provisions only requires the Contractor to make the dynamic monitored piles available to State forces 2 working days prior to driving piles. |
|
111.0 |
Will the 5th Street Off-Ramp be closed during phase III construction? | For ramp closure see ramp closure charts in Special provisions. |
|
112.0 |
Will lane closures be allowed during Phase II? If so, what hours or restrictions? | For lanes closure see lanes closure charts in Special provisions. |
|
113.0 |
Regarding the three 72-inch diameter piles required to be installed "from the bridge deck" - will it be allowed to extend the CISS to bridge deck elevation? | No additional information will be provided. Bid per the current contract bid documents. |
|
114.0 |
What is the correct number of PTFE Spherical Bearings required for this project? Bid Item 133 states a quantity of 66 PTFE Spherical Bearings. In the plans there are 4 locations x 16 bearings per location = 64 PTFE Spherical Bearings. | Pending an addendum request. |
|
115.0 |
Referring to Addendum #3, Section 13-1.03B (RAILROAD SHOOFLY). Please clarify and advise.
|
|
|
116.0 |
Due to the 180 day restriction of "No work Allowed" between Embarcadero & the existing 880 structure imposed per addendum #3, Can the Contractor change the location of the Test Pile @ sta. 99+57 on the south side of 880 to a location on the north side of 880, that does not interfere with new or existing items to remain? For example within the (RT) 20m @ Sta. 100+00 to 100+20 "Y5R" Line or appropriate adjacent areas per the Engineer. | Submitted for consideration. |
|
117.0 |
What is the minimum allowable strength that the Cellular Concrete Fill will have to attain before the contractor can operate and install the subsequent structural sections of LBC and AC, if the required 28 day strength is note as 550 KPa per the special provisions? | The Contractor must prove that each poured lift of cellular concrete has achieved a minimum load bearing (compressive) strength of 207 kPa (30 psi) by testing samples of each poured lift of cellular concrete at 7 days before the Contractor can operate on and/or install subsequent structural sections. This does not relieve the Contractor of the requirement where a minimum strength of 550 kPa (79.77 psi) at 28 days must be achieved for each lift of cellular concrete. Cellular concrete samples for the 7-day test shall be collected, handled, stored, and tested as specified in the special provision. |
|
118.0 |
Regarding the Stage Construction SC-2 & 3, details and notes indicate that the median barrier shall be remove, for construction of the temporary and/or permanent 480mm thick AC pavement section, Please confirm if the overlay pavement between station 93+42 to 98+08 can be installed prior to placing any temporary K-rail placement needed to construct the Median Area. This will eliminate subsequent K-rail relocation to pave under it. The Median reconstruction can commence afterwards once the removal of Barrier and temporary drainage work required. Do you concur? | Construct as shown in the contract plans. |
|
119.0 |
Please refer to addendum #5 which states:
|
Submitted for consideration. |
|
120.0 |
According to the stage construction plans, portions of the existing bent caps will be required to be removed resulting in the remaining portions of the bent caps to be cantilevered. In order for the bidders to calculate the required temporary supports for these cantilevered bent caps, the loads on the structure must be provided by Caltrans. What are the loads on the bent caps to be supported? Please clarify. How will the temporary support work for this be paid and under which bid item? Please clarify. | Pending an addendum request. |
|
121.0 |
Referring to Caltrans Bid Inquiry Answer #115-A, and Special Provision section 13-1.03B (RAILROAD SHOEFLY-Addendum #3); Please clarify whether the work to remove the (2) shoeflies and placing the UPRR tracks back into a final operating configuration will be done by the UPRR or the contractor. | Submitted for consideration. |
|
122.0 |
Is there any additional addendums to be issued prior to the July 23, 2008 bid date? | Submitted for consideration. |
|
123.0 |
Referring to Contract Drawing No. 331/425, Note #13: "Final removal of remaining existing structure shall be 1.000 meter below OG or top of footing (whichever is less) unless otherwise indicated." Referring to Addendum No. 3, page 3, Section 10-1.43, EXISTING HIGHWAY FACILITIES, subsection BRIDGE REMOVAL: "The entire 5th Avenue Overhead (Br No. 33-0027) shall be removed to one meter below the original ground or to the top of the footings, whichever elevation is lower." As most of the bent footings are approximately 3.0 meters below OG, and the groundwater/tidal flow is 1.0 to 1.5 meters below OG, please clarify which excavation depth should be used. |
Excavation limits are shown on Standard Plan A62C. No additional information will be provided. Bid per the current contract bid documents. |
|
124.0 |
Section 10-1.67 GRIND EXISTING CONCRETE PAVEMENT is a grind and groove concrete pavement type of specification. The grinding of concrete on this project is for conform grinding with asphalt concrete placed over these conform locations. Please revise to correspond with the type of work involved. Also items Nos. 86 & 211 are both "highway planting" |
Submitted for consideration. |
|
125.0 |
Due to the bid postponements does the note on sheet L 1 "no work for 180 calendar days still apply"? | Submitted for consideration. |
|
126.0 |
Due to the number of unanswered bidders inquiries, pending addendum request and the loadings to be provided by Caltrans for the temporary supports, we hereby request a month postponement to the current bid date of July 23rd. This would provide bidders adequate time to prepare competitive bids once the inquiries are answered, addendum request is fulfilled and the loadings for the temporary supports are provided by Caltrans. | Submitted for consideration. |