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Viewing inquiries for 10-1E3004

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Inquiry #1: The project is an A+B. The Special Provisions direct to bid no more that 390 working days. There is no minimum provided. Will the State set a minimum for the working day (B) portion of the bid?
Inquiry submitted 09/21/2023

Response #1:Your Inquiry has been submitted for review
Response posted 09/25/2023


Response #2:The State will not set a minimum number of working days for this project.
Response posted 09/27/2023


Response #3:Please see Addendum No. 4, issued 11/9/2023, which establishes 300 as the minimum number of working days.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #2: Hello - I am having trouble accessing a large portion of the supplemental info files due to the downloads being a ppf. Adobe will not open these files because they aren't a pdf. Is there another application I need to use to open these files or were the files uploaded incorrectly? I appreciate your assistance!


Inquiry submitted 09/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 09/27/2023


Response #2:Please refer to Std. Specification 36-3.01B, C and C(2). Ppf files are generated by Profile Viewer and Analyzer (ProVAL) software. If the work you are bidding on does not include pavement inertial profiling, you will not need to access .ppf files.
Response posted 09/29/2023



Inquiry #3: Due to the size and scope of this project, as well as the amount of subcontractors and suppliers that will be needed (including numerous DBE companies), will Caltrans consider extending the bid date?
Inquiry submitted 10/09/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry is submitted for review.
Response posted 10/09/2023


Response #2:Caltrans will not extend the bid date at this time.
Response posted 10/26/2023



Inquiry #4: With the minor amount and scope of Rubberized Hot Mix Asphalt (Gap Graded),
would Caltrans look at eliminating this item and adjusting the Hot Mix Asphalt (Type A) item in its place?
Inquiry submitted 10/11/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/11/2023


Response #2:Please see Sheets X-4 and Q-8, replaced 11/1/23 per Addendum #2.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #5: Per Bid Item #58 - Segment Correction - 62 Each, please provide a table with locations.
Inquiry submitted 10/12/2023

Response #1:Your Inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/13/2023


Response #2:Item #58, 390025 Segment Correction, has been deleted from the project with Addendum #2, 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/07/2023



Inquiry #6: The contract Special Provisions call out under the Standard Plans List, Plan P31A and P32. Can Caltrans indicate on the layout sheets where these are to go as well as the quantities required in the Summary of Quantities.
Inquiry submitted 10/16/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/16/2023


Response #2:The locations of the terminal joints shown in the details are given in the details themselves. The Terminal Joint Type F is used at structure approach slabs and the Terminal Joint Type G is located where new CRCP abuts existing JPCP. The Expansion Terminal Joint System on Std Plan P32 is used with the Terminal Joint Type F on Std Plan P31A. Per Std Specification 40-2.01A, Constructing continuously reinforced concrete pavement includes terminal joints and expansion joints.
Response posted 11/13/2023



Inquiry #7: Per Typical Cross Section on Plan Sheet X-4, please consider substituting the 0.20’ RHMA-G to HMA (Type A) in the 4’ wide pavement section to match with the existing shoulder pavement is 0.35’AC. Seen later this RHMA-G would get remove 2’ wide for 1.20’ Rapid Strength Concrete section.
Inquiry submitted 10/17/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/17/2023


Response #2:Please see Sheets X-4 and Q-8, replaced 11/1/23 per Addendum #2.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #8: Item 86 - 560218 Furnish Sign Structure (Truss) does not exist in the contract drawings - all of the Sign Structures shown on sheets SD-1 to SD-6 and in the Summary on SQ-32 should all be Versatile Truss bid items. BI 86 should be removed and all of these should get moved over to BI 90 Versatile Truss.

Probably want to check the pay weights also for these as Versatile trussed are significantly heavier than 560218 Standard trusses so they current pay weights might need to be adjusted.
Inquiry submitted 10/17/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/17/2023


Response #2:Please see sheets SQ-32 and Q-2, replaced per Addendum No. 2 dated 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/07/2023



Inquiry #9: BI 90 - 560226 Furnish Sign Structure (Versatile Truss) has 2 CMS trusses shown on sheet L-15 but do not call out the post type or span of the truss. This info is needed to properly quote CMS's as a versatile truss. Please provide details and info to complete the design.

Inquiry submitted 10/17/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/17/2023


Response #2:Please see Sheet L-15, replaced per Addendum No. 2 dated 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #10: BI 92 - 560230 Aluminum Walkway Grating (Versatile Truss) - The only 2 structures that have aluminum walkway grating are the 2 CMS's found on sheets L-15 and in the summary on Q-2. The grating SF listed for each structure is 225 SF which appears to be nearly double what one of these structures can hold - please review SF and revise if needed.

Inquiry submitted 10/17/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/17/2023


Response #2:The standard overhead sign design accommodates aluminum walkway grating on both sides of the truss for cantilever lengths less than 40 ft as shown on Std Plan S100.
Response posted 10/26/2023



Inquiry #11: The front page of the Specs state this project is under "Standard Specifications and Standard Plans dated 2023." Is this correct?
Inquiry submitted 10/19/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/20/2023


Response #2:This is correct.
Response posted 10/26/2023



Inquiry #12: For the Structural Concrete, Approach Slab (Type R) the provided bid quantities per bridge do not add up to the actual bid quantity. Please advise.

Also, the Eight Mile Road Undercrossing has a bid quantity of 155 cy on page 622 of the for the Structural Concrete, Approach Slab (Type R) bid item. Is this mean to be approximately double the quantity?
Inquiry submitted 10/19/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/20/2023


Response #2:Refer to Addendum No. 2 dated November 1, 2023. Quantities have been revised on sheet 622 of 635 of the contract plans. Dimension has been revised on 625 of 635 of the contract plans.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #13: Per the all of the Typical Cross Sections shown (X-1 thru X-4), it does not show any edge drains. Are there edge drains throughout the project and are they encased in concrete?
Inquiry submitted 10/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/20/2023


Response #2:As-builts for I-5 within the project limits show edge drains, but field investigations were unable to locate any.
Response posted 10/23/2023



Inquiry #14: For the Individual Slab Replacement locations shown on the Summary of Quantities Sheet Q-5, Instead of Post Miles, can you please provide us with the Beginning and Ending Stations. Like the 4' HMA Shoulder Quantities table on sheet Q-8.
Inquiry submitted 10/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/23/2023


Response #2:Stations will not be provided for Individual Slab Replacement limits. Please see the Note on Sheet Q-5, which states: “LOCATIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY. FINAL LOCATIONS TO BE DETERMINED BY THE ENGINEER.”
Response posted 10/26/2023



Inquiry #15: Are the 60" Sign CIDH Foundations designed as end bearing piles or side friction piles ?
Inquiry submitted 10/22/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/23/2023


Response #2:Foundation design for overhead sign structures is based on Broms' Method of laterally loaded piles. Thus, it is not end bearing or side friction.
Response posted 10/30/2023



Inquiry #16: No temporary barrier is called out for the 4' shoulder reconstruct shown on the top of sheet X-4. Will temporary barrier be required? There are also no stage or traffic handling drawings for this work. Are there any requirements for which stage this work will need to be completed in?
Inquiry submitted 10/23/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/23/2023


Response #2:This work will not be required to be completed during any identified stage and will not require temporary barrier(s). However, additional lane closure hours have been provided in Lane Closure Charts G7, G8, G9 and G10, added to project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g) per Addendum #4, posted 11/9/23.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #17: Will data cores (BI # 63), only be required for the mainline areas with a .25 cold plane and .25 HMA section?
Inquiry submitted 10/24/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/24/2023


Response #2:Item #63, DATA CORE, is deleted from the project per Addendum #2 dated 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #18: Per the SPECIAL PROVISIONS, SECTION 9 PAYMENT, 9-1.08 PAYMENT ADJUSTMENTS FOR FUEL PRICE FLUCTUATIONS, we know that this is a pilot program to address any and all fuel price fluctuations that are happening beyond are controls, would Caltrans please consider using section first on smaller and less complex project to familiarize all contractors and subcontractors on this procedure.
Inquiry submitted 10/24/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/25/2023


Response #2:The Payment Adjustment for Fuel Price Adjust Fluctuations specification will not be removed from the contract. See Section 9-1.08A of this project’s Special Provisions, which allows bidders to opt out of fuel payment adjustments at the time of bid.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #19: There is no information in the plans regarding the location of BI #50 Imported Borrow (1450 CY). Where is this material being placed?
Inquiry submitted 10/25/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/25/2023


Response #2:Please see MVP and Ramp Widening Quantities table on Sheet Q-2 as replaced per Addendum No. 1 dated October 6, 2023.
Response posted 10/30/2023



Inquiry #20: The Special Provisions require bird exclusion devices at all structures within the project limits. Are bird exclusion devices necessary where no work is being performed under the structures?
Inquiry submitted 10/25/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/25/2023


Response #2:Please see Special Provision 14-6.06C, revised to require bird exclusion devices only at Hammer Ln UC with Addendum No. 4 issued 11/9/23.
Response posted 11/13/2023



Inquiry #21: Please provide the lateral/moment demand curve for the 60" CIDH Sign Foundations
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:Providing a lateral/moment demand curve and reactions for the 60” CIDH Foundation will not be relevant and will not be provided by Caltrans. The diameter of the 60” CIDH Foundation cannot be reduced.
Response posted 11/02/2023



Inquiry #22: Due to the amount of bidder inquires and unanswered questions regarding the plans / specs, would the state consider extending the bid date 2 weeks?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:The Bid Opening date for project 10-1E3004 has been changed to 11/30/2023 from 11/09/2023. Please see Addendum No. 2 dated 11/01/2023.
Response posted 11/02/2023



Inquiry #23: Plan sheet LQ-1 "Landscape Quantities" calls out both class II aggregate and hot mix asphalt as (N) Not A Separate Bid Item. Can the state clarify which item of work these quantities will be paid under?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:The work will be paid under Bid Item 61, Textured and Colored Hot Mix Asphalt. Refer to project Special Provision Section 39-2.11D “Payment”, which states: “Payment for aggregate and hot mix asphalt is included in the payment for textured and colored hot mix asphalt”.
Response posted 10/30/2023



Inquiry #24: Would Caltrans allow as a design build value engineering proposal to provide a structurally equivalent 4' diameter CIDH Sign Foundation in Lieu of the original 5' diameter design ? We would become the Engineer of Record for the 4' diameter CIDH Sign Foundation.

The 4' diameter CIDH would provide the equivalent or greater skin friction area than the original 5' diameter design and would have equivalent or greater moment capacity.
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:For the CMS 700 (Versatile Truss), the 5’-0” Diameter CIDH Foundation cannot be reduced because: Base Plate Diameter of 4'-0", Mortar requirement underneath the base plate, Anchor Bolt Circle of 3'-4", Clearances needed between anchor bolts and Pile Vertical Reinforcement, and CIDH Concrete Cover of 3" to Pile Spiral Reinforcement. Please refer to Sheet L-15, CMS Quantities Table on Sheet Q-2, Base Plate and Anchor Bolt Dimensions Table in 2023 Standard Plans Plan No. S103, and CIDH Concrete Pile Table in 2023 Standard Plans Plan No. S104.
Response posted 10/30/2023



Inquiry #25: Typical X-Section called out plan sheet X-4 along "I5" Sta 1975+32.00 To Sta 2738+52.00 shows a 4' wide full depth repair (.2' RHMA-G / .85' HMA-A / 1.50' AB) on the right shoulder. Current lane closure charts only allow an 8 hr work window at night which slows production down if the repaired lane will have to open for traffic after every work shift. Would the state consider 24 hr lane closure restrictions for this work?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:Please see the revised right shoulder structural section on project plans sheet X-4, revised per Addendum No. 2 posted 11/1/23.

Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g), charts G7 through G10, added per Addendum No. 4, posted 11/9/23, which add weekend closures.

24 hr lane closures will not be considered for this segment of work.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #26: Typical X-Section called out plan sheet X-4 along "I5" Sta 1975+32.00 To Sta 2738+52.00 shows a 4' wide full depth repair (.2' RHMA-G / .85' HMA-A / 1.50' AB) on the right shoulder. Current lane closure charts only allow an 8 hr work window at night which slows production down if the repaired lane will have to open for traffic after every work shift. Would the state consider and/or provide a TC Handling Plan placing K-Rail or other traffic devices for this work?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g), charts G7 through G10, added per Addendum No. 4, posted 11/9/23, which add weekend closures.

The work in this segment does not require or allow for long-term lane closures, and the State will not revise the Traffic Handling Plans to require the placement of Temporary Concrete Barrier.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #27: Typical X-Section called out plan sheet X-4 along "I5" Sta 1975+32.00 To Sta 2738+52.00 shows a 4' wide full depth repair (.2' RHMA-G / .85' HMA-A / 1.50' AB) on the right shoulder. Current lane closure charts only allow an 8 hr work window at night which slows production down if the repaired lane will have to open for traffic after every work shift. Would the state consider just a deep lift HMA-A pavement section in lieu of RHMA-G, HMA, and AB?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:Please see the revised shoulder structural section on Sheet X-4, replaced per Addendum #2, posted 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/07/2023



Inquiry #28: Per Sheet THQ-10 for the project plans, it shows a total of 14 Each of Portable Changeable Message Boards needed. However, per the Bid Quantities, it is paid by the Lump Sum. Is 14 Each the total amount that is required?
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/26/2023


Response #2:The PCMS payment will be a lump sum. PCMS on Sheet THQ-10 is required for the traffic handling portion. Please refer to this project’s Special Provisions Section 12-3.32C.
Response posted 11/01/2023



Inquiry #29: Please provide locations for the Capped Stakes necessary for the Temporary Barrier System shown on standard detail T3B. The drawings do not show enough detail to determine where they are required.
Inquiry submitted 10/26/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/27/2023


Response #2:Please see Std Plan T3B, notes 2 and 3. Type K Temporary Railing must be staked where the edge of the barrier is less than 24" from the edge of traveled way or 3" to 24" from the edge of excavations. Distances from edge of barrier to ETW and edge of excavations are shown on the Stage Construction Plans.
Response posted 10/30/2023



Inquiry #30: Special Provision Spec Section 39-2.11C Construction for Textured and Colored Hot Mix Asphalt states: "Apply the textured pattern immediately after compacting the hot mix asphalt while it is at or above 150 degrees F. Use steel rollers and/or vibratory plate compactors to achieve a consistent pattern and depth. Remove the templates after the desired pattern and depth is achieved." The current industry standard process is to come in after hot mix asphalt is placed, reheat the asphalt with an infrared heater, stamp wire rope templates into the surface, and then apply the colored polymer coating. Would the state consider this construction process?
Inquiry submitted 10/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/27/2023


Response #2:An alternative installation method may be determined acceptable by the Engineer, but bid the item as specified by Special Provision Section 39-2.11C.
Response posted 11/08/2023



Inquiry #31: There are a number of questions regarding the shoulder reconstruct detail on Typical Cross Sections X-4. This work is significant (approx 140,000 ft of 4 ft wide shoulder re-build). Because k-rail is not being used, the production for this work will be extremely slow and costly. Excavation, Base and HMA in the same shift = slow production.
In the existing travel lanes the existing PCC and CTB are being removed and replaced with 1.2' ISR (concrete). This ISR concrete will be placed on the existing 0.5' of lime treat. The 0.5' of existing lime treat extends to the shoulder area, so the 2 ft of wider concrete (new 14' wide outside lane) will rest on the same section as the adjacent #1 or #2 lane.
Therefore, the shoulder section design can be changed. The ISR work should be built first, followed by a shoulder pave that ties the work together with a clean joint. The shoulder HMA pave (after the ISR) could be changed to a basic 2 or 4 ft wide cold plane and pave (0.2' to 0.25' deep).
Inquiry submitted 10/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/27/2023


Response #2:Please see the revised shoulder structural section on Sheet X-4, replaced per Addendum No. 2, posted 11/1/23.

Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g), charts G7 through G10, added per Addendum No. 4, posted 11/9/23.

The purpose of constructing the shoulder first is to allow the most deteriorated inside portion of the shoulder to be constructed in a single 4 ft wide pass instead of a variable 2-4 ft sawtooth shape, to provide a smooth shoulder and avoid the low production rate of a 2 ft strip. Sawcutting 2 ft of the newly constructed HMA shoulder at locations of placement of widened outside lane slabs will provide a smooth, clean form.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #32: We modestly request re-consideration for Bidder Inquiry #1. It would be of great benefit to the State and Bidding Contractors to have a minimum number of days established for this proposal as it provides a level playing field for all the bidders. Will the State consider setting a minimum for the working day (B) portion of the bid?
Inquiry submitted 10/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/27/2023


Response #2:Please see Addendum No. 4, issued 11/9/2023, which establishes 300 as the minimum number of working days.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #33: Bid Item 58 is for Segment Correction. There is no lane freeway HMA lane paving on the project. All HMA paving is at the on/off ramps and at the shoulders. What is the location and purpose of this bid item?
Inquiry submitted 10/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/27/2023


Response #2:Bid Item 58, Segment Correction, has been deleted from the project per Addendum 2, posted 11/1/23.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #34: Per Section 12-4.02C(7)(b), is states "...the maximum length of the work inside a closure is 1 mile. Not more that 1 stationary closure is allowed in each direction of travel at one time". Due to the long lineal distance of the Individual Slab Replacement and 4' foot shoulder reconstruction (approximately 29 miles), we request that additional lane closures be allowed.
Inquiry submitted 10/30/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/30/2023


Response #2:Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(7)(b), revised per Addendum No. 4 issued 11/9/23.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #35: Typically these types of projects include grinding concrete pavement. Will the State be adding a bid item to grind concrete pavement?
Inquiry submitted 10/30/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/30/2023


Response #2:Please see the item “GRIND NEW CONCRETE PAVEMENT,” added to Sheet Q-5 of the project plans and added to the bid item list as item 014225 per Addendum 7, posted 11/29/23.
Response posted 11/30/2023



Inquiry #36: Would Caltrans allow as a design build substitute to provide a structurally equivalent 4' diameter CIDH Sign Foundation with the top 5 ft being the original diameter in lieu of the original diameter full depth design ? We would become the Engineer of Record for the 4' diameter with larger diameter CIDH Sign Foundation at the top 5 ft. This way all of the hardware and embed requirements are not affected by our design build approach.

The 4' diameter CIDH would provide the equivalent or greater skin friction area than the original design and would have equivalent or greater moment capacity.
Inquiry submitted 10/30/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 10/30/2023


Response #2:For the CMS 700 (Versatile Truss), the 5’-0” Diameter CIDH Foundation cannot be reduced because: Base Plate Diameter of 4'-0", Mortar requirement underneath the base plate, Anchor Bolt Circle of 3'-4", Clearances needed between anchor bolts and Pile Vertical Reinforcement, and CIDH Concrete Cover of 3" to Pile Spiral Reinforcement. Please refer to Sheet L-15, CMS Quantities Table on Sheet Q-2, Base Plate and Anchor Bolt Dimensions Table in 2023 Standard Plans Plan No. S103, and CIDH Concrete Pile Table in 2023 Standard Plans Plan No. S104.
Response posted 11/02/2023



Inquiry #37: Addendum 2 revised section 2-1.11 and is requiring the apparent low bidder and their subcontractors to submit In use off road diesel fueled vehicle list. Additionally requesting a copy of a valid certificate of reported compliance.
Please direct the bidding contractors and subcontractors to the forms that need to be submitted.
Inquiry submitted 11/02/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/02/2023


Response #2:Please refer to the In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Vehicle List included in Addendum No. 2, issued 11/1/23.

The Certificates of Reported Compliance are to be provided by the contractor and to be included with the completed In-Use Off-Road Diesel-Fueled Vehicle List form. The Certificates are acquired from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). For more information, use the following link regarding the Off-Road Diesel Regulation from CARB’s website: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/truckstop-resources/road-zone/road-diesel-regulation

Please note, contractors are to only list fleets subject to the regulation. If none of the fleets being used on the project are subject to 13 CCR § 2449 et seq., bidders must submit the completed form and check the ”Check here if all fleets used to perform work are not subject to 13 CCR § 2449 et seq. Submit the blank form as part of the bid.” check box.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #38: Please Note: The upper 5 ft of the CIDH would be the original diameter therefore your concern would be mitigated. Whatever the original diameter is called out for in the contract drawings would be provided for the upper 5' of the CIDH.

Original question below:

Would Caltrans allow as a design build substitute to provide a structurally equivalent 4' diameter CIDH Sign Foundation with the top 5 ft being the original diameter in lieu of the original diameter full depth design ? We would become the Engineer of Record for the 4' diameter with larger diameter CIDH Sign Foundation at the top 5 ft. This way all of the hardware and embed requirements are not affected by our design build approach.

The 4' diameter CIDH would provide the equivalent or greater skin friction area than the original design and would have equivalent or greater moment capacity.
Inquiry submitted 11/02/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/02/2023


Response #2:Caltrans requires that the CIDH Sign Foundations be built per the standard design referred to in the contract documents.
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #39: Bid Item 73 - Individual Slab Replacement (RSC) - Will dowel bar baskets be required for the transverse joints on this project?
Inquiry submitted 11/06/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/06/2023


Response #2:Dowel bar baskets will not be required for the transverse joints on this project. Dowel bars are omitted from transverse contraction joints. Dowel bars are only placed at transverse joints at the beginning and ending of replacement slabs at existing PCC pavement. Please refer to Standard Plan, Plan No. P8, “Individual Slab Replacement with Rapid Strength Concrete”, Note 4, which states: “Transverse contraction joint to match skew of existing joint. Omit dowel bars.”
Response posted 11/06/2023



Inquiry #40: Special Provisions call for bird exclusion devices to be installed at the Mokelumne River Bridge. The only work being performed there is barrier transitions and MGS. The structure is over 1200' long and will require a substantial amount of work to install bird exclusion devices. Is it necessary to install bird exclusion devices at the Mokelumne River Bridge as well as other structures where the only work being performed is barrier transitions and MGS?
Inquiry submitted 11/06/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/06/2023


Response #2:Please see Special Provision 14-6.06C, revised to require bird exclusion devices only at Hammer Ln UC with Addendum No. 4 issued 11/9/23.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #41: Given the short contract duration being specified, will Lane Closure Charts G1 and G4 be modified to allow for work on Friday and Saturday nights also? The current closure charts only allow for temp stripe and k-rail for traffic switches to be performed on Friday and Saturdays between Hammer Lane and Eight Mile Road.
Inquiry submitted 11/09/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/09/2023


Response #2:Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g) charts G4 and G5, which allow placement, relocation and removal of temporary striping and k-rail for new lane configurations on weekends.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #42: Per Addendum #4, It states that the 4' wide shoulder reconstruction (MP 35.3 to 49.8) can only happen on Friday and Saturday Nights. However, the panel replacements can be done from Sunday Night thru Friday morning. With this schedule being very aggressive and to properly schedule the work flow between personnel, equipment and material suppliers, and only being able to work on the weekends, will Caltrans allow the shoulder reconstruction to happen also on Sunday Nights thru Friday Mornings?
Inquiry submitted 11/13/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/13/2023


Response #2:Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g), charts G1 and G4, which allow shoulder reconstruction from Hammer Ln to 0.8 mi N of Rte 12 on Sunday Nights thru Friday mornings.

Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(g), charts G2 and G3, which allow shoulder reconstruction from 0.8 mi N of Rte 12 to Sacramento County Line on Sunday Nights thru Friday mornings.
Response posted 11/14/2023



Inquiry #43: Closure Charts G5 and G6 are the only charts which permit work on Friday and Saturday nights for the work area between Hammer Lane and Eight Mile Road. These two charts only apply to placement, relocation and removal of temporary striping and k-rail for new lane configurations when shifting traffic. Will the state consider allowing any and all other types of work to be performed on Friday and Saturday nights between Hammer Lane and Eight Mile Road in order to meet the specified contract duration?
Inquiry submitted 11/15/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/15/2023


Response #2:Caltrans will not allow work between Hammer Lane and Eight Mile Road on Friday and Saturday nights other than placement, relocation and removal of temporary striping and k-rail for new lane configurations when shifting traffic. Please bid accordingly.
Response posted 11/21/2023



Inquiry #44: Has this project received any state funds and therefore the mandatory 25% SBE participation required by AB2019 applies ?
Inquiry submitted 11/15/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/15/2023


Response #2:The project is partially federally funded; therefore the 25% SBE participation requirement does not apply.
Response posted 11/22/2023



Inquiry #45: Does the existing PCC pavement contain any reinforcing or dowel bars ? None is indicated?
Inquiry submitted 11/16/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/16/2023


Response #2:There is no known reinforcement in existing PCC pavement. Tie bars may be present in longitudinal joints. There are dowel bars in locations of previous PCC slab replacements, but the quantity of dowel bars that will be encountered with this project and their exact locations cannot be determined prior to construction.
Response posted 11/21/2023



Inquiry #46: In reference to Bidder's Inquiry #42 (Questions and Answers) and Addendum #4 "Revised Freeway Lane Requirements (G7, G8, G9 & G10), all of the work that is required from MP 35.3 to 49.8, can be performed, 7 days a week at night. Is this correct?
Inquiry submitted 11/16/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/16/2023


Response #2:Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(f) Charts G-1 through G-4, which allow work from PM 35.3 to 49.8 to be performed on weeknights.

Please see project Special Provision 12-4.02C(3)(f) Charts G-7 through G-10 added per Addendum 4 issued 11/9/23, which allow only shoulder reconstruction work specified on plan sheet X-4 on weekend nights.

Response posted 11/22/2023



Inquiry #47: Good morning,

Is there anything that would prevent us from using only 3/8 Pea Gravel and Sand aggregates to make all the different mix designs Caltrans specifies ? We are looking to use a portable batch plant system and it only has 2 aggregate bins and using 3/8 Pea Gravel allows for more mix designs. 

I looked and couldn't find anything in the 2023 Standard Specifications that would prevent me from using only 3/8 Pea Gravel and Sand Aggregates. 
Inquiry submitted 11/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/20/2023


Response #2:Pea gravel does not meet the gradation or Aggregate Quality requirements in Standard Specifications section 39 which require use of crushed aggregate, and is not permitted for use in Hot Mix Asphalt.

3/8" pea gravel does not meet the gradation requirements in Standard Specifications section 90, and is not permitted for use in Portland Cement Concrete.
Response posted 11/21/2023



Inquiry #48: Good morning,

Is there anything that would prevent us from using only 3/8 Pea Gravel and Sand aggregates to make all the different mix designs Caltrans specifies ? We are looking to use a portable batch plant system and it only has 2 aggregate bins and using 3/8 Pea Gravel allows for more mix designs.

I looked and couldn't find anything in the 2023 Standard Specifications that would prevent me from using only 3/8 Pea Gravel and Sand Aggregates.
Inquiry submitted 11/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/20/2023


Response #2:Pea gravel does not meet the gradation or Aggregate Quality requirements in Standard Specifications section 39 which require use of crushed aggregate, and is not permitted for use in Hot Mix Asphalt.

3/8" pea gravel does not meet the gradation requirements in Standard Specifications section 90, and is not permitted for use in Portland Cement Concrete.

Response posted 11/21/2023



Inquiry #49: Due to the upcoming holidays, and the amount of large size projects bidding on 11/30, we would like to ask for a minimum one week bid extension to assist in these scheduling conflicts.
Inquiry submitted 11/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/20/2023


Response #2:A postponement of the bid opening date has been submitted for consideration.
Response posted 11/27/2023


Response #3:The Bid Opening date for project 10-1E3004 has been changed to 12/7/2023 from 11/30/2023. Please see Addendum No. 6 dated 11/28/2023.
Response posted 11/28/2023



Inquiry #50: There are cameras listed in spec that are discontinued and therefore unavailable. Will their current replacement models be accepted?
Inquiry submitted 11/20/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/20/2023


Response #2:There are cameras of both types still available listed in the Specifications. Please bid per the contract documents.
Response posted 11/28/2023



Inquiry #51: Will Caltrans extend the bid date a minimum of 1 week due to the scope of the project as well as other projects bidding on 11/30.
Inquiry submitted 11/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/27/2023


Response #2:A postponement of the bid opening date has been submitted for consideration.
Response posted 11/27/2023


Response #3:The Bid Opening date for project 10-1E3004 has been changed to 12/7/2023 from 11/30/2023. Please see Addendum No. 6 dated 11/28/2023.
Response posted 11/28/2023



Inquiry #52: The project is very restrictive in regards to lane closures for the work from Eight Mile Rd to Hammer Lane. Lane closures are only allowed Sunday-Thursday nights for road work. The only work that can be accomplished on Friday-Saturday nights is stage traffic switches. This work/lane closure constraint does not allow the contractor to work 7 days/week. Due to these constraints, this should not be bid as a A+B contract. The constraints do not allow the contractor weekend days to make-up time or accelerate the schedule. Please consider changing this to a standard format bid with days specified for the contract and TRO.
Inquiry submitted 11/27/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/27/2023


Response #2:Closure windows have already been extended as much as possible without introducing unacceptable impacts to the public. All bidders are subject to the same constraints and are all required to utilize Cost + Time bidding. Bid per advertised project documents.
Response posted 11/30/2023



Inquiry #53: Special Provisions section 2-1.44 Submittal of bid documentation requires the submission of bid documentation and backup to District 6 construction duty senior for review. Is this the correct address for a District 10 bid?
Inquiry submitted 11/28/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/28/2023


Response #2:District and address are correct. Submit bid docs and backup as described.
Response posted 11/29/2023



Inquiry #54: Addendum 6 moved the bid date to Dec 7th.
Caltrans has other large projects bidding in Districts 3, 4, an 10 on Dec 5, 12, and 14.
It would be more equal for bidders if the bid date for Hwy 5, 10-1E3004 could be moved to Dec 19, 20, or 21, especially if there is another addendum planned for the Highway 5 project.

Inquiry submitted 11/28/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/28/2023


Response #2:No extension or delay BO is anticipated at this time.
Response posted 11/30/2023



Inquiry #55: Per addendum #7, which added a new scope of work for bid item #173, we will need 2 additional weeks to advertise properly for DBE participation. Please move the bid date to the week of 12/18/23 to accommodate the DBE requirements.
Inquiry submitted 11/30/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 11/30/2023


Response #2:Request has been submitted for consideration, but no BO postponement is anticipated at this time.
Response posted 12/04/2023


Response #3:Addendum No. 8, issued 12/7/2023, has changed the Bid Opening date from 12/7/2023 to 12/14/2023.
Response posted 12/07/2023



Inquiry #56: Section 9-1.07 applies to asphalt price index fluctuations. Section 9-1.08 of the special provisions adds an adjustment for fuel price index fluctuations. The current bid proposal appears to only allow the Contractor to OPT OUT of ALL price index fluctuation payments. Is it possible to OPT OUT of only AC or Fuel Index? If so, how do we identify this on the bid proposal form?
Inquiry submitted 12/05/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 12/05/2023


Response #2:An opt out form for Fuel Price Index Fluctuation has been included in the Informational Handout updated per Addendum 8, posted 12/7/23.
Response posted 12/07/2023



Inquiry #57: As a follow up to our previous inquiry, we would like to opt out of the payment adjustment for price index fluctuations for fuel price (Sect. 9-1.08), but we do not want to opt out of the payment for price index fluctuations for asphalt oil products (Sect. 9-1.07). How do we do that when submitting our bid?
Inquiry submitted 12/05/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 12/05/2023


Response #2:An opt out form for Fuel Price Index Fluctuation has been included in the Informational Handout updated per Addendum 8, posted 12/7/23.
Response posted 12/07/2023



Inquiry #58: Per Addendum #4, it states to install Bird Exclusion Device only at the Hammer Lane Undercrossing structure. Why is this required at this location with no water crossing vs other locations that has water crossings and nesting birds are present?
Inquiry submitted 12/06/2023

Response #1:Your inquiry has been submitted for review.
Response posted 12/06/2023


Response #2:Work on the Hammer Lane undercrossing will directly affect nests and nesting birds. Work at the other undercrossings will not.
Response posted 12/07/2023

The information provided in the responses to bidder inquiries is not a waiver of Section 2-1.07, "JOB SITE AND DOCUMENT EXAMINATION" of the Standard Specifications or any other provision of the contract, nor to excuse the contractor from full compliance with the contract. Bidders are cautioned that subsequent responses or contract addenda may change a previous response.