REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT)

Fall 2020 Planting Program

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

Honorable Philip D. Murphy, Governor Honorable Sheila Y. Oliver, Lt. Governor

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, Commissioner

July 16, 2020

Important Dates

Question Cut-Off: July 22, 2020 @ 10:00 AM Email: dot-ems_bid.procurement@dot.nj.gov

Answers to Bid Questions:

Bidders are encouraged to monitor the NJDOT – EMS website daily for updates, changes and responses to questions through the submission due date. http://www.nj.gov/transportation/business/procurement/ems/current.shtm

Bid Opening: July 29,2020 @ 10:00 AM

Email: dot-ems_bid.procurement@dot.nj.gov

Quotes sent to any other e-mail address may result in the quote being rejected. The quote must be submitted in PDF format. No other format will be accepted.

Procurement Contact: Viktoriya Matchin

Email: dot-ems_bid.procurement@dot.nj.gov

1.0 BLANKET P.O. SPECIFIC DEFINITIONS/ACRONYMS

Additional Work – Refers to work directed by the SCM that is not specified in this Bid Solicitation’s initial scope of work, but is necessary to complete the intent of this Blanket P.O. and shall be payable for actual hours worked, equipment, and materials delivered to the project site.

Alkaline Stabilized Biosolid – Helps to create soil pH conditions in which metals are insoluble, minimizing plant uptake and movement of metals to groundwater. Soils that have a low pH will benefit greatly from the alkaline material and will be more fertile.

American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) – A standards setting body that publishes specifications, test protocols, and guidelines used in highway design and construction throughout the United States.

Balled & Burlapped – industry term also known as B&B.

Biosolid –A stabilized organic solid that is derived from a sewage treatment process (mostly resulting from the biological treatment of wastewater) which can be managed safely to be used beneficially for nutrients, soil conditioning, energy, or other values.

Bouyoucos Hydrometer Analysis – A method of hydrometer analysis where the size of the solids in the suspension is estimated from the density of the solution measured by the hydrometer.

Caliper – The diameter of a tree at six (6) inches from the root flare.

CU YD – Cubic yard.

Fiber reinforced matrix (FRM) – A composite material constituting a polymer matrix blended with certain reinforcing materials, such as fibers.

Foreman – Vendor’s {Contractor’s} employee who leads and/or is responsible for the crew and is fluent in the English language.

Guy Wire – A tensioned cable designed to add stability to a freestanding structure. Common uses are ship masts, radio masts, wind turbines, utility poles, and fire service extension ladders that are used in church raises and tents.

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) – A cost effective material designed for modular canopy and sail structures. HDPE is ideal for shade structures because it does not deteriorate from chemicals, mildew, rot, or sun.

Hortus Third – A plant encyclopedia that consists primarily of alphabetically arranged botanical (Latin) plant names along with physical descriptions.

LN FT – Linear foot.

LN YD – Linear yard.

Mechanically Bonded Fiber Matrix (MBFM) – A continuous layer of elongated fiber strands held together by a water-resistant bonding agent. It eliminates direct rain drop impact on soil (it has no holes

greater than one millimeter in size), it allows no gaps between the product and the soil and it has a high water-holding capacity. A bonded fiber matrix will not form a water-insensitive crust that can inhibit plant growth, and it will biodegrade completely into materials known beneficial to plant growth.

Per Diem – Normal eight (8) hour day.

Permits – Any required documentation necessary to proceed with the scope of work (i.e. watering permit).

Plant Categories – The grouping of species by general plant characteristic and mature growth size. Examples in each category are provided as a guide to define categories. Other genus, species, varieties, and cultivars not listed, but which fit each category may be specified.

• Shade Tree, Deciduous – A large growing tree of any species, variety, or cultivar which drops its leaves annually. Examples by genus: Acer, Betula, Carpinus, Ginkgo, Gleditsia, Liquidambar, Liriodendron, Nyssa, Platanus, Quercus, Sassafras, Tilia, Ulmus, Zelkova, etc.

• Small Tree, Deciduous – A smaller growing tree of any species, variety, or cultivar which drops its leaves annually. Examples by genus: Betula, Cersis, Cornus, some Magnolia, Malus, Prunus, Pyrus, etc.

• Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf – A tree of any species, variety, or cultivar that retains leaves year round and year to year. Examples by genus: Ilex, Magnolia, etc.

• Evergreen Tree, Coniferous – A tree of any species, variety, or cultivar that retains needle-like leaves year round bears cone-shaped fruiting bodies. Examples by genus: Chamacyparis, Cupressocyparis, Taxus, Thuja, Juniperus, etc.

• Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf – A shrub of any species, variety, or cultivar that retains its leaves year round. Examples by genus: Azalea, Ilex, Myrica, Rhododendron, some Viburnum, etc.

• Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous – A shrub of any species, variety, or cultivar that retains needle-like leaves year round and bears cone-shaped fruiting bodies. Examples by genus: Juniperus, Taxus, Thuja, etc.

• Shrub, Deciduous, Woody – A shrub of any species, variety, or cultivar that drops its leaves annually and has a wood-like stem. Examples by genus: Aronia, Clethra, Cornus, Forsythia,Hamamelis, Hybiscus, Lindera, Prunus,Vaccinium, most Viburnum, etc.

• Shrub, Deciduous, Herbaceous – A shrub of any species, variety, or cultivar that drops its leaves annually and has soft herb-like stems. Examples by genus: Hydrangea, Rosa, and etc.

• Grass and Sedge, Perennial – A grass of any species that completes a lifecycle over many years and is used for multi-year seasonal interest. It is grown as an individual plant. Examples by genus: Andropogon, Carex, Elymus, Eragrostis, Festuca, Juncus, Panicum, Schizachyrium, Scirpus, Spartina, and etc.

• Annual Plant – A plant of any species that completes a lifecycle in one year and is usually used for seasonal interest and grown into full plants. Examples by genus: Ageratum, Begonia, Celosia, Coreopsis, Euphorbia, Impatiens, Lobelia, Petunia, Phlox, Rudbeckia, Salvia, Verbenia, Viola, Zinnia, etc.

• Perennial Plant – A plant of any species, sometimes grown for flowering characteristics, that completes a lifecycle over two (2) or more years and is usually used for multi-year seasonal interest. It is grown into full plants rather than bare root bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes, or other root-type parts. Examples by genus: Acorus, Ajuga, Asclepias, Aster, Clematis, Convallaria, Crocus, Cyclamen, Dahlia, Galium, Gladiolus, Hemerocallis, Hosta, Iris, Lamium, Liriope, Narcissus, Ranunculus, Sedum, Oenthera, Phlox, Tulipia, Sagittaria, Veronica, and etc.

• Vine – A plant of any species with a flexible stem supported by climbing, twining, or creeping along a surface. Examples by genus: Clematis, Hedera, Vinca, and ect.

• Bulbs – A modified underground stem of any species usually surrounded by scale-like modified leaves and containing stored food for the undeveloped shoots of the new plant enclosed within it. Examples by genus: Amaryllis, Lilluium, Narcissus, Tulipia, and etc.

PR MG – Per 1,000 gallons.

SCM (State Contract Manager) - NJDOT Project Manager for the specific project being serviced.

Services – For purposes of this Bid Solicitation, the definition of services shall be expanded to not only include time, labor and effort, but also materials, supplies, equipment, and other tangible items necessary to successfully complete the scope of work.

Turf Reinforcement Mat (TRM) – Provides immediate erosion protection and long-term site armoring. A TRM assists in the establishment of vegetation while permanently reinforcing vegetation for applications where the forces exerted by water exceed the shear limits of unreinforced vegetation. Typical applications include high flow channels, streambanks, and shorelines.

Understory Vegetation – The underlying layer of vegetation in a forest or wooded area, especially the trees and shrubs growing between the forest canopy and the forest floor. Plants in the understory comprise an assortment of seedlings and saplings of canopy trees together with specialist understory shrubs and herbs.

2.0 PURPOSE & INTENT

The purpose of this Bid Solicitation is to solicit Quotes for tree planting and landscaping along State highways to maintain environmentally friendly and scenic conditions via the Good Neighbor Planting Program.

The intent of this Bid Solicitation is to award Master Blanket Purchase Orders (Blanket P.O.s) to those responsible Vendors {Bidders} whose Quotes, conforming to this Bid Solicitation are most advantageous to the State.

NJDOT intends to award up to two (2) Blanket P.O.s per Region (North and South) for a total of up to four (4) Blanket P.O.s.

3.0 SCOPE OF WORK

3.1 SUMMARY For the purposes of this Bid Solicitation, there shall be one (1) planting season which will commence on September 1, 2020 and end no later than December 31, 2020. The SCM reserves the right to extend the planting season if weather permits. Selected Vendors {Contractors} must be aware that final replacement plantings may take place after the Blanket P.O. term expires. There will be multiple sites within a Region, but none of the sites shall have less than a minimum project work order of $2,000.00. Exclusions will include:

A. Watering operations after plant material acceptance; and

B. Possible bundling of more than one (1) work site location in a 20-mile radius.

Working hours shall be limited to normal business days (7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday - Friday), excluding State Holidays with the following exceptions:

C. A request is approved by the SCM;

D. Daily hours are limited by the State Traffic Engineer based on a specific project location;

E. All tree work shall be in accordance with legislation known as the Tree Expert and Tree Care Operators Licensing Act, which states that all tree work shall be supervised by a Licensed Tree Expert (LTE) or a Licensed Tree Care Operator. This Act can be viewed at the following link: https://www.njtreeexperts.org/pdf/Tree_Experts_and_Tree_Care_Operators_Licensing_Act.pdf;

F. Please refer to the Department of Agriculture website regarding latest recommendations for the

issue of the Spotted Lanternfly as it relates to tree work and construction equipment. The website can be viewed at the following link: https://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/divisions/pi/prog/spottedlanternfly.html; and

G. All tree work shall be wood chipped and wood chips may be spread on site if directed by the SCM.

If wood chips are not directed to be spread on site by the SCM, they shall be removed and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

In order for successful completion of the Blanket P.O., the selected Vendor(s) {Contractor(s)} shall ensure, the following requirements are met or exceeded:

H. Supply and deliver all planting trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, bulbs, ground covers, fertilizer, seed, and application of herbicides;

I. Ensure that the planting includes a one (1) year warranty, which covers two (2) replacement

planting counts within the one (1) year of initial planting acceptance. One (1) planting count shall occur in the Spring and one (1) in the Fall, along with other items related to landscape construction;

J. Supply and install an approved Dry-Laid Colored Concrete Paver system with a suitable setting bed;

K. Supply and install an approved Stacked Colored Concrete Block Retaining Wall system with a suitable footing;

L. Ensure that during the planting, and/or hardscape construction operation the following tasks will be provided; removal of excess soil or concrete, backfilling with approved topsoil, pruning, mulching, watering, staking and guying, clean-up and disposal of unusable material;

M. Supply suitable sub-base materials for pavers and wall systems, compaction of materials and saw-cutting. Each job-site shall require the provision of necessary safety for workers, traveling public and maintenance of traffic;

N. For each project, the SCM shall provide work locations, quantities, and types of plant materials, linear feet of wall, dimensions for paver areas, and help with layout. The Office of Landscape Architecture shall provide a representative for work requested by the Department of Transportation. The Vendor {Contractor} is responsible for requesting utility mark outs;

O. Follow standard erosion control procedures or as directed by the SCM;

P. Clear and trim existing trees;

Q. Remove any graffiti and install anti-graffiti product;

R. Provide a one (1) year warranty on the installation of pavers and wall systems. The paver areas shall be true to grade and walls shall be at the same plumb; and

S. Request a final inspection when the project is completed. At this time, the SCM may supply a corrective action list to the Vendor {Contractor}, which shall be completed prior to the acceptance of project completion.

3.2 PLANT MATERIAL

The SCM shall supply an item list of plants for each project. The following items apply to plant material:

A. Plants shall be top quality specimens that are nursery-grown at locations within 200 miles of Trenton, NJ.

1. The State reserves the right to tag (i.e. select or not select) any material in the ground at the nursery. Plant supply shall consist of trees, shrubs, vines, seedlings, ground covers, and plants of all descriptions that conform to the American Standard for Nursery Stock, sponsored by the American Association of Nurserymen, Inc;

2. The publication, Hortus Third, shall serve as the authoritative reference for all plant names;

3. Plants shall be healthy and vigorous, with well-developed branch and root systems, and

shall be free from disfiguring knots and gall, sunscald injuries, bark abrasions and other objectionable disfigurements. Plant supplies that are weak and thin or have been cut back from larger grades to meet certain specified requirements shall not be accepted;

4. Bulbs shall be firm and free of rot disease;

5. All plant materials shall conform to State, federal, and local laws relating to inspection for

diseases and infestation;

6. All inspection certificates shall be filed with the SCM;

B. Plant materials may be inspected where they are growing. Certain items selected shall be marked with a seal furnished by NJDOT. All plant material shall be inspected upon arrival at the site of the project. Notice to the SCM shall be given no less than 48 hours before the material is to arrive on the project site;

C. Any materials arriving with broken seals, broken or loose balls, insufficient protection, or otherwise appear to have suffered damages while in transit, shall not be accepted. Random inspection of the root system of the plant material may be performed by the SCM by breaking open the earth balls. Necessary assistance shall be provided, as needed, by the selected Vendor {Contractor} when inspections are performed;

D. Materials used for burlapping and tying shall be biodegradable. Non-biodegradable materials such as plastic or nylon shall not be accepted;

E. Material shipped in open vehicles shall be thoroughly protected from drying out due to wind and sun exposure. Material shipped in enclosed vans or boxcars shall be adequately ventilated. An invoice giving the date and origin of shipment, the botanical names, sizes, grades, and the quantities of plants shall accompany each shipment. A copy of the invoice shall be provided to the SCM at the time of delivery;

F. For Hemerocallis and perennials, containers shall be accompanied by a delivery ticket and a certification by the supplier listing the botanical name and type of the Hemerocallis or perennial delivered. The SCM shall verify the variety before use on location; and

G. For Narcissus, bulbs shall be received as DNII or RDII, minimum (large size grade according to American Standard for Nursery Stock, which can be viewed and downloaded at the following link: https://cdn.ymaws.com/americanhort.site-ym.com/resource/collection/38ED7535-9C88-45E5-AF44-01C26838AD0C/ANSI_Nursery_Stock_Standards_AmericanHort_2014.pdf). Narcissus bulbs shall be accompanied by a delivery ticket and a certification by the bulb house of the types of Narcissus delivered. The SCM shall verify the variety before use on location.

3.2.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR PLANTING AND REPLACEMENT OF EVERGREEN, DECIDUOUS, PERENNIALS, VINES, AND BULBS

Planting and replacement of the following categories of evergreen, deciduous, perennials, vines, and bulbs shall be measured and paid for by the awarded unit pricing in accordance with the price lines below:

A. Shade Tree, Deciduous, #20 Container, 1 1/2” – 1 3/4” Caliper, 10’ – 12’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost to Plant One (1) Shade Tree, Deciduous, #20 Container, 1 1/2” – 1 3/4” Caliper, 10’ – 12’ High price line)

B. Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2" – 2 1/2" Caliper, 12' - 14' High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2" - 2 1/2" Caliper, 12' – 14' High price line);

C. Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2 1/2" – 3" Caliper, 14' - 16' High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2 1/2" - 3" Caliper, 14' – 16' High price line);

D. Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 3” – 3 1/2” Caliper, 16’ – 18’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shade Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 3” – 3 1/2” Caliper, 16’ – 18’ High price line)

E. Small Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2" – 2 1/2" Caliper, 8' - 10' High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Small Tree, Deciduous, B&B, 2" - 2 1/2" Caliper, 8' – 10' High price line);

F. Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 5’ – 6’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 5’ – 6’ High price line);

G. Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 7’ – 8’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 7’ – 8’ High price line);

H. Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 8’ – 10’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 8’ – 10’ High price line);

I. Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 10’ – 12’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Broadleaf, B&B, 10’ – 12’ High price line);

J. Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 5’ – 6’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 5’ – 6’ High price line);

K. Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 7’ – 8’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 7’ – 8’ High price line);

L. Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 8’ – 10’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 8’ – 10’ High price line);

M. Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 10 – 12' High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Evergreen Tree, Coniferous, B&B, 10 – 12' High price line);

N. Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 18" – 24" High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 18" – 24" High price line);

O. Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High price line);

P. Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 3' – 4' High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Broadleaf, B&B Or #3 Container, 3' – 4' High price line);

Q. Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 18” – 24” High / Spread (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 18” – 24” High / Spread price line);

R. Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High / Spread (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High / Spread price line);

S. Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 3’ – 4’ High / Spread (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Evergreen, Coniferous, B&B Or #3 Container, 3’ – 4’ High / Spread price line);

T. Shrub, Deciduous, Woody, B&B Or #3 Container, 18” – 24” High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Deciduous, Woody or Herbaceous, B&B Or #3 Container, 18” – 24” High price line);

U. Shrub, Deciduous, Woody, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Deciduous, Woody or Herbaceous, B&B Or #3 Container, 2’ – 3’ High price line);

V. Shrub, Deciduous, Woody, B&B Or #3 Container, 3’ – 4’ High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Shrub, Deciduous, Woody or Herbaceous, B&B Or #3 Container, 3’ – 4’ High price line);

W. Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #1 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #1 Container price line);

X. Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #2 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #2 Container price line);

Y. Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #3 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Grass And Sedge, Perennial, #3 Container price line);

Z. Perennial Plant, Approximate 2 1/2" – 3" Pot (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Perennial Plant, Approximate 2 1/2" – 3" Pot price line);

AA. Perennial Plant, #SP5 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Perennial #SP5 Container price line);

BB. Perennial Plant, #1 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Perennial Plant, #1 Container price line);

CC. Perennial Plant, #2 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Perennial Plant,

#2 Container price line);

DD. Annual Plant, Approximate 2 1/2” – 3” Pot (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Annual Plant, Approximate 2 1/2” – 3” Pot price line) EE. Annual Plant, #1 Container (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Annual Plant, #1

Container price line)

FF. Vine, Minimum 1 3/4" x 1 3/4" Root Mass, 3” – 4” (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Vine, Minimum 1 3/4" x 1 3/4" Root Mass, 3” – 4” price line); and GG. Vine, #2 Container, 18” – 24” High (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Vine, #2 Container, 18” – 24” High price line).

HH. Bulb, Dnii, Large Grade (per the All Inclusive Cost To Plant One (1) Bulb, Dnii, Large Grade price line).

3.2.B PLANT MATERIAL ALTERNATE

In the event the desired material plant is unavailable, the SCM may permit an alternate plant. However, for a substitution to be considered, the Vendor {Contractor} shall adhere to the following:

A. The Vendor {Contractor} shall supply written verification to the SCM that an attempt was made to locate said plant at a minimum of six (6) different nursery sources that would normally supply the item and the Vendor {Contractor} found that item to be unavailable for planting before the project completion date; and

B. All proposed substitutions shall be equal in form, texture, color, hardiness, and size prior to

submittal for approval by the SCM.

3.2.C PLANT MATERIAL CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

Plants shall be carefully handled and packed to prevent injuries during transit. Work shall be coordinated to prevent delays in planting that may expose the roots of plant materials to the air, sun, or freezing conditions. Planting shall be according to the standard nursery planting construction details for planting per Bid Solicitation Attachment #2 – Planting Construction Details Part A and Bid Solicitation Attachment #3 – Planting Construction Details Part B as well as the following requirements:

A. Prior to planting, the Vendor {Contractor} shall be responsible for all soil preparation as directed by the SCM. Preparation may include removal of any of the existing vegetation under 2” caliper (i.e. grasses, weeds, and small undesirable shrubs within the proposed planting area). In addition, the vegetation shall first be sprayed with glyphosate per the manufacturer’s recommended rate, until the vegetation is destroyed. All undesirable vegetation shall be removed and disposed of at no additional cost to the State;

B. Plants shall be placed carefully and plumb in plant pits that have been excavated to allow a two (2) times minimum diameter of root ball around B&B material and container material. The bottom of the plant pit shall be firm original ground at the same depth as the ball or container. Burlap from B&B material shall be removed and/or folded and tucked into the plant pit after backfilling to 1/2 depth of the ball;

C. Containers from containerized plants shall be removed completely (by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State) prior to backfilling. The plant material shall be well-established in the container, exhibiting a root mass that will retain its shape and hold together when removed from the container. Immediately before planting containerized planting material, the root mass shall receive three (3) vertical cuts, spaced equidistantly about the perimeter. Each cut, about 1/2 inch deep, shall begin at the top of the root mass and continue to the bottom;

D. Any wire baskets shall be cut, removed, and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State, as directed by the SCM prior to planting;

E. When half of the topsoil has been placed, the Vendor {Contractor} shall add a water-retaining polymer in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions. The topsoil shall then be tamped and thoroughly watered. The remainder of the topsoil backfill shall be placed and tamped while creating a saucer to retain water and mulch;

F. Prior to mulching, each plant shall initially be watered at a rate of 15 gallons per square yard of plant pit area. The initial watering shall be included in the cost of the plant material;

G. Pre-emergent herbicide shall be applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions and rates immediately prior to mulching;

H. Wood mulch shall then be placed at a depth of 3” - 4” over and in the saucer except when the planting comprises a bed or hedge. Hedges shall be mulched the entire length and to a distance of 18 inches from each side of the outer plant stems/trunks;

I. Trees shall be guyed with two (2) stakes, wire and hose, to conform to the New Jersey Department of Transportation Standard Construction Details CD-811-1.5 and CD-811-1.7;

J. At all times where a hazardous condition may result, planting pits shall not remain open beyond the close of the working day unless adequate precautions are taken to warn of their presence and protect the public from injury;

K. During the two (2) replacement periods per Bid Solicitation Section 3.1, the Vendors {Contractors} shall excavate all weeds in planting beds, hedges, assess and may recommend any other requirements for the successful establishment of the plantings;

L. In addition to the planting requirements specified per Bid Solicitation 3.2.3.A-L, for all planting taking place outside the optimum planting season, the plant material shall be moved with roots balled. The trunk, branches, and foliage shall be sprayed with an anti-desiccant, which shall be mixed and applied in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions;

1. Trees and shrubs shall be trimmed and thinned to reduce the amount of foliage and help balance the loss of roots due to transplanting; and

M. Topsoil for backfill and supplemental topsoil shall be clean and approved by the SCM prior to use, and shall have a water-retaining polymer incorporated at the time of planting as in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. No additional payment shall be made for topsoil backfill.

3.2.D INITIAL WATERING

For initial watering, the selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. The initial watering at the time of planting shall be at the rate of 15 gallons per square yard of plant pit area;

B. All initial watering and any watering prior to project acceptance shall be included in the cost of the plant material;

C. If the project is not completed and accepted, all plants shall be watered once a week thereafter and the Vendor {Contractor} shall provide five (5) gallons of water per square yard in the plant pit basin at no additional cost to the State until acceptance;

1. More than one (1) watering per week may be required during planting operations or during periods of excessive dryness until the work is accepted; and

D. If the basin constructed around each plant does not function properly, it shall be repaired at no additional cost to the State. All damage to grass, plants, stakes, guys, mulch, or watering basins shall be repaired at no additional cost to the State.

3.2.E PLANTING BEDS FOR FLOWERS Planting beds for flowers shall conform to Bid Solicitation, Attachment 2; ”Planting Construction Details Part A” in addition to the following requirements:

A. Hemerocallis shall be planted to a depth of 8” and graded smooth immediately before planting;

B. Annuals and perennials shall be planted to a depth of 4” and graded smooth immediately before planting; and

C. Narcissus shall be planted to a depth of 8”.

3.2.F TREE PROTECTION

At no additional cost to the State, tree protectors shall be installed to a height of two (2) feet above the ground surface on all newly planted Malus and Crataegus species to prevent damage from bark-consuming rodents.

3.2.G MULCHING

All individual plant material (not in a bed) shall have mulch applied within the plant pit area according to the planting detail. This shall be done at no additional cost to the State.

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. All beds shall be treated with a pre-emergent herbicide such as Oryzalin, Oxadiazon, or Trifluralin before the application of any mulching materials;

B. Planting beds in areas flatter than 4H:1V shall also be cultivated to a depth of 6”;

C. The beds shall be neatly edged and mulch shall be the shredded type or be chips from hardwood trees;

D. Mulching shall not be decomposed and shall not exceed 2” in any dimension; and

E. All individual plant material (not in a bed) shall have mulch applied within the plant pit area at no additional cost to the State.

3.2.H METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR MULCHING

Cost for mulching individual plants according to planting details shall be included in the price for the plant material.

3.3 SUPPLEMENTAL WOOD MULCH

Supplemental wood mulch shall be additional wood mulch required to mulch areas not within the plant pit area of the planter materials (ex: in the areas of shrub beds).

Application of the supplemental wood mulch shall conform to the requirements in Bid Solicitation Section 3.2.7, Mulching.

3.3.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SUPPLEMENTAL WOOD MULCH Supplemental wood mulch shall be measured and paid for by the square yard per the awarded unit pricing for the All Inclusive Cost To Apply Supplemental Wood Mulch price line.

3.4 RESTORATION AND CLEANUP

The Vendor {Contractor} shall restore to their previous condition any existing grass areas that may have been damaged during planting. These restoration services shall be performed at no additional cost to the State.

3.4.A MISCELLANEOUS MATERIAL

All miscellaneous material shall be provided to the State at no additional cost and shall meet the following requirements:

A. Anti-desiccant shall be of the polyvinyl type;

B. Cedar posts shall be of white cedar and shall have a diameter of not less than 2” nor more than 3” at the thinner end;

C. Wooden posts shall be nominal sized 2” x 2” of solid, reasonably knot-free lumber;

1. These wooden posts may, at the discretion of the State, be permitted as an alternate for white cedar posts;

2. The length of the post shall be half the height of the plant to be supported, plus a minimum of two (2) feet for setting in the ground. The maximum overall length of any post shall be eight (8) feet;

D. Guy wire shall be 14-gauge steel wire;

E. Herbicides shall be Banvel CST, WeedOne CB, Compadre, Vantage, Acclaim, Lontrel or approved equal. The application of the herbicides shall conform to the Pesticide Control Code N.J.A.C. 7:30 et seq.;

F. Hose shall be 1/2” corded rubber or plastic;

G. Pegs for fastening sod on slopes shall be of wood lath not less than 9” long or of similar pieces of wood;

H. Staples for anchoring topsoil stabilization matting shall be made of 12” lengths of No. 25 plain iron wire;

I. Rodent tree protectors shall meet one of the following:

1. Plastic, wrap-around-the-trunk type, dark brown, dark gray or dark green in color;

2. Wire mesh measuring 1/4” x 1/4” forming a 6” diameter cylinder around the trunk with the abutting edges fastened together with wire.

J. Water-retaining polymer shall be Hydrogel or an equivalent that shall be subject to approval by the SCM.

K. Wooden guy stakes shall be nominal sized 2” x 4” lumber with a minimum length of two (2) feet of solid and reasonably knot-free wood or 2 1/2 inch diameter with a minimum length of two (2) feet of white cedar; and

1. The diameter of the cedar stakes shall be measured at the thinner end and the stakes shall also be pointed on the thinner end. All guy stakes shall be notched 4” from the top for fastening the wire guys.

3.4.B PLANTING ACCEPTANCE, ESTABLISHMENT, AND REPLACEMENT

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. At the time of DOT’s acceptance of the planting, all planting areas shall be free of weeds and be alive and healthy. The plant acceptance date shall be the start of the one (1) year establishment period;

B. The acceptability of the plant material furnished and planted shall be determined at the end of a period of establishment during which all possible means shall be employed to preserve the plants in a healthy growing condition;

C. Planting shall be determined as established one (1) year from the date of acceptance of the planting. The dates of planting acceptance are June 1 for the Spring planting and December 1 for the Fall planting;

D. Care provided by the Vendor {Contractor} during the establishment period shall include, but not be limited to, watering, weeding, spraying with insecticides or fungicides, pruning, repairing, and adjusting guys and stakes; and

E. All plants that are not alive nor healthy at the stated intervals of replacements shall be replaced in kind, quantity, and size with acceptable live, healthy plants installed as originally specified. The SCM may permit substitute varieties of plants to be used as described in Bid Solicitation Section 3.3.

Replacement planting shall conform to the requirements for initial planting with the following exceptions:

F. Existing wood chips shall be removed and may be reused if salvageable;

G. Backfilling may be made with excavated material that does not contain wood chips or other objectionable material; and

H. All replacement plantings shall be made at no additional cost to the State.

3.4.B.A REPLACEMENT PERIOD

There shall be two (2) periods for mandatory replacement of unhealthy plant material each year during the term of the Blanket P.O. At the beginning of the next growing season, approximately six (6) months after planting, and at the end of the one (1) year period, any plant material that is not alive and healthy shall be replaced in kind and quantity by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

A. A replacement plant list shall be provided by the SCM. During each replacement period, whether material has died or not, each planted area shall be completely weeded.

B. The replacements shall include any incidental items, per the Blanket P.O., that may be required in order for the completion of work. Examples include, but are not limited to, safety, traffic

control, disposal costs, as well as excavation of any weeds in the planting areas. Replacements shall include any damaged or vandalized materials.

C. Replacement of evergreen and containerized materials shall be performed from March 1 to May 15 and from August 15 to December 1. Replacement of B&B deciduous material shall be performed from March 1 to May 15 and from October 15 to December 1.

3.5 HEAVY DUTY TREE TRUNK PROTECTOR

A heavy-duty tree trunk protector shall consist of the following features:

A. A light green-colored heavy gauge;

B. Interlocking plastic 9” tall trunk protector unit that will prevent damage from string trimmers to the basal root flare area of a new or existing 4” caliper or less single trunk shade tree; and

C. An ArborGuard or equivalent type of trunk protector shall be used.

3.5.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR HEAVY DUTY TREE TRUNK PROTECTOR

This work, where directed by the SCM, shall include furnishing and installing a 9” tall heavy duty tree trunk protector at the basal root flare area of new or existing 4” caliper or less single trunk shade tree. The area between the tree trunk protector and the tree trunk shall be free of all weeds and debris after installation.

3.5.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR HEAVY DUTY TREE TRUNK PROTECTOR

The 9” tall heavy-duty tree trunk protector shall be measured and paid for per each unit that is furnished and installed at the awarded rate for the All Inclusive Cost to Install A 9” Tall Heavy-Duty Tree Trunk Protector (Arbor Guard or Equivalent) price line.

3.6 DEER FENCE, INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL IN A LARGE AREA

When installing deer fencing in a large area, the selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Deer fencing shall surround the perimeter of designated areas and be at a minimum height of eight (8) feet high; and

B. At no additional cost to the State, one (1) gate shall be installed for any enclosed area.

3.6.A MATERIALS FOR DEER FENCE, INSTALLATION IN A LARGE AREA

The following guidelines shall apply for post and fence materials when installing deer fence in a large area:

A. Posts shall be black vinyl-coated steel that is 10’-6” long with a minimum diameter of 1 5/8” and a minimum wall thickness of .065”;

B. Corner posts shall be black vinyl-coated steel with a minimum diameter of 2 1/2” and minimum wall thickness of .065”; and

C. Fence material shall be heavy-duty extruded vinyl with mesh measuring a maximum 2” x 2”.

3.6.B CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR DEER FENCE, INSTALLATION IN A LARGE AREA

Installation of deer fence in a large area shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

3.6.C METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR MATERIALS FOR DEER FENCE, INSTALLATION IN A LARGE AREA

Large area deer fence shall be measured and paid for at the awarded rate per the All Inclusive Cost For Deer Fence Installation In A Large Area price line for each linear foot of fence that is supplied and installed.

3.7 DEER FENCE REMOVAL IN A LARGE AREA

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Deer fence shall only be removed at the direction of the SCM representative;

B. Generally, deer fence installed around a large area of trees shall be removed when the trees reach a caliper of 4” DBH;

C. Deer fence installed around large areas shall be removed if and when directed, based on the schedule and requirements established upon installation; and

D. All stakes, posts, ties, and plastic mesh shall be removed from the site and disposed of at no additional cost to the State. Posts shall be completely extracted, as opposed to being cut at ground level.

3.7.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DEER FENCE REMOVAL IN A LARGE AREA

A. Deer fence removal in a large area shall be measured and paid by the linear foot of fence removed and disposed (per the All Inclusive Cost For Deer Fence Removal In A Large Area price line).

3.8 DEER FENCING, INDIVIDUAL TREES SUPPLY INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the supply and installation of deer fencing, which shall sit at a minimum of five (5) feet high surrounding individual trees and shrubs.

3.8.A MATERIAL FOR DEER FENCING, INDIVIDUAL TREES SUPPLY, INSTALLATION

The following material requirements for the installation of deer fencing around individual trees shall apply:

A. Fence material shall be heavy-duty extruded vinyl, with mesh measuring a maximum 2” x 2”; and

B. Posts may be vinyl coated steel, with a minimum diameter of 1 5/8”, or solid wood stakes with a nominal size of 2” x 2”, minimum seven (7) feet in length.

3.8.B CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR DEER FENCE INSTALLATION AROUND INDIVIDUAL TREES

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Install a total of four (4) stakes or posts a minimum of two (2) feet into the ground, taking care not to puncture the root ball of the tree or shrub; and

B. Secure heavy-duty extruded vinyl mesh to stakes or posts using zip ties of sufficient length. Mesh shall be installed straight and taut against the post or stakes, leaving sufficient space at the bottom to allow for removal of weeds by either string trimmer or by hand.

3.8.C METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DEER FENCE INSTALLATION AROUND INDIVIDUAL TREES

Deer fence installation around individual trees shall be paid by the unit installed (per the All Inclusive Cost For Deer Fence Installation Around Individual Trees price line);

3.9 DEER FENCE REMOVAL AROUND INDIVIDUAL TREES

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Generally, deer fence installed around individual trees shall be removed when the trees reach a caliper of 4” DBH;

B. Deer fence installed around individual trees shall be removed if and/or when directed by the

SCM, based on the schedule and requirements established upon installation; and C. All stakes, posts, ties, and plastic mesh shall be removed from the site by the Vendor

{Contractor} at no additional cost to the State. Posts shall be completely extracted, as opposed to being cut at ground level.

3.9.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DEER FENCE REMOVAL AROUND INDIVIDUAL TREES

Deer fence removal around individual trees shall be paid by the unit removed and disposed (per the All Inclusive Cost For Deer Fence Removal Around Individual Trees price line);

3.10 TREE WATERING BAGS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Tree watering bags shall be a single bag, 30” height and 18” wide at base to fit 1” – 4” caliper tree with branches at least 25” from the ground or higher;

1. Must be made of green polyethylene with scrim reinforcement, black polypro straps, and nylon zippers;

B. Water capacity per bag shall be approximately 15 gallons for trees 1” – 4” diameter and approximately 23 gallons for trees over 4” in diameter; and

C. The bags shall be approved by the SCM prior to installation.

3.10.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR INSTALLATION OF TREE WATERING BAGS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Installation of tree watering bags shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification and filled to capacity upon installation; and

B. Tree watering bags shall be inspected weekly to ensure they are performing properly and that all weep holes are open and free flowing. Bags shall be refilled at the time of inspection, or when necessary.

3.10.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TREE WATERING BAGS

The following shall apply for measurement and compensation for tree watering bags:

A. Tree watering bags shall be paid for by each unit that is furnished and installed;

B. No additional payment shall be made for water used at the time of installation; and

C. Tree watering bags shall be paid for per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Watering Bags.

3.11 SUBSEQUENT WATERING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. After acceptance of a planting project, the Vendor {Contractor} shall submit a proposed watering schedule; and

B. Approximately eight (8) subsequent waterings shall be provided at a rate of ten (10) gallons per square yard of plant pit area, unless directed otherwise by the SCM.

3.11.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SUBSEQUENT WATERING

Subsequent watering shall be measured and paid for by the unit of one thousand gallons (MG) of water used per the All Inclusive Cost For Subsequent Waterings.

3.12 PREPARATION OF EXISTING SOIL

This work shall consist of the preparation of existing soil for seeding or addition of compost sludge or alkaline stabilized biosolid.

3.12.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR PREPARATION OF EXISTING SOIL

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. The surface of the existing soil to be prepared shall first be cleared of all stumps, brush, and weeds;

B. The entire area shall then be brought to a smooth grade, free from any depressions that would collect water;

C. If necessary, additional topsoil shall be used to fill depressions;

1. Where depressions exceed 8” in depth, subsoil shall be added and covered with 4” of topsoil; and

D. All waste material and debris resulting from preparation of existing soil shall be properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.12.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR EXISTING SOIL

Preparation of existing soil shall be measured and paid for by the square yard per All Inclusive Cost for Preparation of Existing Soil price line.

3.13 SODDING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Sod shall be machine-cut at a uniform soil thickness of 5/8” at the time of cutting;

B. Measurement for thickness shall exclude top growth and thatch;

C. Individual strips of sod shall be of a uniform width;

1. Broken strips and torn or uneven strips may be rejected; and

D. Standard-sized strips of sod shall be strong enough to support their own weight and retain their size and shape when suspended vertically from the upper 10% of the strip.

The SCM shall direct the Vendor {Contractor} to use one (1) of the following three (3) types of sod:

E. Kentucky bluegrass-fescue blend with a minimum 70% Kentucky bluegrass varieties;

F. Turf-type tall fescue mixture: turf-type tall fescue is grown as a mixture of 90% tall fescue and 10% Kentucky bluegrass. It consists of premium varieties of tall fescue and elite-type varieties of Kentucky bluegrass; and

G. Fine fescue/Kentucky bluegrass mixture: Is composed of 70% fine fescue, consisting of premium varieties of hard fescue and chewings fescue, and 30% elite-type varieties of Kentucky bluegrass.

3.13.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR SODDING

The following requirements shall apply for construction of sodding:

A. A 1-0-2 ratio fertilizer, applied at a rate necessary to yield 50 pounds of nitrogen per acre, and pulverized limestone, if necessary, shall be incorporated into the topsoil;

B. Sod shall be harvested and, within 36 hours, delivered and placed. It shall be laid with staggered joints and pressed closely together;

C. The ends of sod strips shall be matched so that the ends and sides always lie flush with each other;

D. Sod shall be pressed into the underlying soil by hand tamping and rolling and then sodded areas shall be thoroughly watered;

E. Watering shall be performed as necessary until a firm root mass is established and the water infiltrates through the root zone and into the topsoil zone;

1. The watering process shall provide equal distribution and coverage to all sodded areas;

F. Sod shall not be transplanted when the moisture content (excessively wet or dry) may adversely affect its survival;

G. If the upper 1/2” of topsoil is dry, the soil shall immediately be lightly moistened before laying the sod;

H. The finished surface shall be smooth, even, and to the prescribed lines and contour. Sod that is other than alive and healthy shall be replaced immediately at no additional cost to the State;

I. On slopes, placing sod shall start at the bottom. At the top of slopes, the upper edge of the sod strips shall be turned into the soil and covered with topsoil. On slopes steeper than 3H: 1V, sod

shall be held in place with pegs driven flush with the surface of the sod. The pegs shall be not more than one (1) foot apart. No less than two (2) pegs shall be used for each strip of sod;

J. With each delivery of sod, a delivery slip shall be submitted with the date of harvest and a certificate noting the varieties and percentage of grass from the supplier; and

K. All sod shall be alive, healthy, and fully established.

3.13.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SODDING

Sodding shall be measured and paid for by the square yard at the awarded rate per the All Inclusive Cost For Sodding price line.

3.14 SUPPLEMENTAL TOPSOIL

Supplemental topsoil shall be additional topsoil required to create raised planting areas and shall be additional to the topsoil included with the installation of the plant material.

3.14.A APPROVED TOPSOIL SOURCES

The following requirements shall apply for approved topsoil sources:

A. The Vendor {Contractor} must supply NJDOT with one (1) certified acceptable topsoil source (as a single source guarantees consistency of soil material) for multiple projects, unless otherwise approved by NJDOT;

1. Topsoil must be certified by an accredited lab;

B. Topsoil shall not contain stones, lumps, roots, or similar objects larger than 1” in any dimension and shall have not less than a 5.8 pH value;

C. When the topsoil has less than a 5.8 pH value, the pH value shall be increased by applying pulverized limestone at a rate necessary to attain a 6.5 pH value;

1. When the topsoil has greater than a 7.0 pH value, it shall be decreased to attain a 6.8 pH value; and

2. The method to decrease the soil pH shall be submitted for approval before work begins.

3.14.B UNAPPROVED TOPSOIL SOURCES

Material stripped that has the following characteristics shall not be considered suitable for use as topsoil:

A. Soils having less than 4.1 pH value or greater than 8.0 pH value;

B. Chemically contaminated soils;

C. Areas from which the original surface has been stripped and/or covered over such as borrow pits, open mines, demolition sites, dumps, and sanitary landfills; and

D. Wet excavation.

Topsoil shall have a minimum organic content of not less than 2.75% by weight.

E. When the organic content is less than 2.75%, it shall be increased by adding an organic amendment such as peat, composted leaves or composted sewerage sludge at a rate necessary to attain this minimum organic content; and

F. The organic content of soils shall be determined according to AASHTO T 194 (can be purchased at this link: https://store.transportation.org/Item/PublicationDetail?ID=754) except that the sample shall be taken from oven-dried soil passing a No. 10 sieve.

3.14.C GRADATION OF TOPSOIL SOURCES

The gradation of the topsoil shall be determined using the Bouyoucos Hydrometer Analysis conforming to AASHTO T 88.

The gradation shall be within the following ranges:

A. Not more than 20% of the material submitted from an off-site sample shall be retained in a No. 10 sieve.

B. If more than 1/2” of the sand is smaller than 20 mils, its composition shall be as follows:

Sand (80 mils to 2 mils) 40% – 80% Silt (2 mils to 0.2 mils) 0% – 30%

Clay (0.2 mils and smaller) 0% – 30%

C. If more than one-half of the sand is larger than 20 mils, its compositions shall be as follows:

Sand (80 mils to 2 mils) 40% – 80% or 40% –75%

Silt (2 mils to 0.2 mils) 0% – 30% or 0% – 30% Clay (0.2 mils and smaller) 15% – 30% or 0% – 30%

NOTE: Material that falls outside the ranges specified in Bid Solicitation Section 3.14.3.B-C shall not be suitable for use as topsoil.

3.14.D METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SUPPLEMENTAL TOPSOIL SOURCES

Supplemental topsoil used for berm areas shall be measured and paid for by the cubic yard per the awarded All Inclusive Cost to Apply Supplemental Topsoil unit pricing and shall use the Average End-Area Method.

3.15 LANDSCAPE WEED BARRIER

The following guidelines shall apply for landscape weed barriers:

A. Fabric shall be a black woven 100% polypropylene product specifically designed by the manufacturer and designated for this purpose;

B. The minimum weight shall be 93 grams per square meter and the weave shall allow water to pass through but not light;

C. Staples that will secure the weed barrier to the ground shall be as recommended by the manufacturer of the fabric and installed in accordance with the weed barrier manufacturer's recommendation; and

D. Weed barrier may be used in plant beds and under stone dust paths.

3.15.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR LANDSCAPE WEED BARRIER

Landscape weed barrier shall be measured and paid for in accordance with the awarded All Inclusive Cost To Apply Landscape Weed Barrier per square yard unit price line.

3.16 SELECTIVE THINNING

Selective thinning, as directed by the SCM shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

A. The removal of selected vegetation including understory shrubs, vines and living and dead trees with up to a 24” diameter;

1. This includes stumps, branches, understory vegetation, and the removal of debris and trash in forested or wooded areas to thin out the tree density; and

B. While maintaining the general canopy, open the understory and remove undesirable vegetation as directed by the SCM.

3.16.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR SELECTIVE THINNING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Selective thinning shall be performed utilizing hand carried tools;

1. Heavy equipment that may disturb or compact root zones is not permitted;

B. Care shall be taken not to damage adjacent vegetation, structures and property;

C. Limbs on remaining trees may be directed by the SCM to be removed up to a height of 16 feet at the trunk;

D. Stumps in open areas that will be seeded shall be removed to 6” below existing ground and backfilled with topsoil unless directed otherwise;

E. Live stumps, which may remain, shall be treated with herbicide to prevent re-sprouting; and

F. Overhanging branches that are going to be thinned shall be trimmed back to a desirable end point.

All trees, stumps, branches, understory vegetation, debris, and trash shall be removed from the site and shall be disposed of in accordance with state and local laws.

G. Wood chips derived from the chipping of trees may be used as mulch provided the chips are clean and free of twigs, leaves, vines, and other debris; and

H. Overhanging branches in the area that are to be thinned shall be removed at no additional cost to the State.

3.16.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SELECTIVE THINNING

Selective thinning shall be measured from the drip line and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Perform Selective Thinning price line. Overhanging branches removed in the area shall be thinned at no additional cost to the State.

3.17 SELECTIVE CLEARING

Selective clearing shall include, but not be limited to, the removal of the following in an effort to create open bays and/or space for planting:

A. Selected live and dead trees from 2” – 30” in diameter;

B. Stumps;

C. Branches;

D. Under story vegetation; and

E. Removal of debris and trash in forested wooded areas.

The predominance of trees shall be removed to reduce or eliminate canopy but selected trees may remain as directed.

F. Areas directed to be cleared behind guide rail shall have all the vegetation removed except for turf;

G. Stumps in open areas that will be seeded shall be removed to 6” below existing ground and backfilled with topsoil unless directed otherwise;

H. Live stumps, which may remain, shall be treated with herbicide to prevent re-sprouting;

I. All trees, stumps, branches, under story vegetation, debris, and trash shall be removed from the site and disposed of in accordance with state and local laws;

J. Overhanging branches in the area to be cleared shall be trimmed back to a desirable end point;

1. If overhanging branches are to be removed, it shall be at no additional cost to the State;

K. Care shall be taken not to damage adjacent vegetation, structures and property; and

L. Wood chips derived from the chipping of trees may be used as mulch provided the chips are clean and free of twigs, leaves, vines, and other debris.

3.17.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SELECTIVE CLEARING

Selective clearing shall be measured from the drip line and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Perform Selective Clearing price line.

3.18 BRUSH CUTTING

This work shall consist of brush cutting vegetation within the NJDOT right-of-way to a height of 3”.

3.18.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR BRUSH CUTTING

Brush shall consist of grass (up to 12” tall), vines, brambles, small shrubs and small trees up to 2” in caliper. It is anticipated that brush cutting will occur one (1) time per year in order to maintain the “bay” areas or wildflower areas that are not mowed and to remove vegetation from behind guiderail and around signs.

A. Hand cutting and/or brush cutting equipment may be used as necessary;

B. Prior to the commencement of any operation, the Vendor {Contractor} shall collect all litter and debris including, but not limited to: tires, cans, bottles, paper products, and general rubbish within the areas to be brush cut;

C. The collected material shall be recycled or disposed in accordance with Subsection 201.10 of the NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007; and

D. Excessive debris resulting from brush cutting shall be removed and disposed in accordance with Subsection 201.01 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007, which can be viewed and/or downloaded at the following link: https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/eng/documents/BDC/pdf/attachmentbdc07s03.pdf.

3.18.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR BRUSH CUTTING

Brush cutting shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Perform Brush Cutting price line.

3.19 MOWING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. This work shall involve mowing areas of lawn or turf, with grass or weeds up to 12” tall and 1/2” in diameter;

B. Mow designated area to a height of 3” – 4” using hand-mowing methods and light equipment in order to preserve turf areas and prevent soil compaction; and

C. Use string trimmer or other hand-operated machinery to finish around trees, buildings, paver edges, or other obstructions. Excess cuttings shall be removed and disposed of properly by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.19.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR MOWING

Mowing shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Mowing price line.

3.20 TREE REMOVAL

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the removal of individual designated trees in an un-forested area (such as urban situations or a non-continuous wood line) over 2” in diameter to a maximum of 48” in diameter.

NOTE: There shall be no double payment of tree services. Tree removal shall not be paid for separately in selective thinning unless a tree is over 24” in diameter. Tree removal shall not be paid for separately in selective clearing unless a tree is over 30” in diameter. Work shall conform to ANSI Standards.

3.20.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR TREE REMOVAL

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Trees to be removed shall be designated as such and each tree designated for removal shall be completely removed including the stump so the ground can be prepared for new plantings;

B. Stump holes shall be backfilled with topsoil and, if necessary, trees shall be felled in sections to prevent damage to adjacent vegetation, structures, utility wires, and property;

C. Any damage to other vegetation, structures, utility wires or other property that the State deems a liability of the Vendor {Contractor} shall be repaired by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State;

D. Damage to existing trees that are to remain shall be repaired by the Vendor {Contractor}; and

E. Grass areas damaged as a result of tree removal shall be repaired at no additional cost to the State. All branches, limbs, trunks, and other debris resulting from tree removal shall be removed from the site and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.20.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TREE REMOVAL

Removal of trees shall be measured and paid for on a per tree basis, based upon the appropriate diameter measurement category when measured 4 1/2 feet above the ground. Categories of measurement are as follows:

A. Tree removal, 2” to 6” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 2” – 6" Diameter price line);

B. Tree removal, over 6” to 12” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 6” – 12" Diameter price line);

C. Tree removal, over 12” to 18” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 12” – 18" Diameter price line);

D. Tree removal, over 18” to 24” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 18” – 24" Diameter price line);

E. Tree removal, over 24” to 30” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 24" – 30" Diameter price line); and

F. Tree removal, over 30” diameter to 48” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Tree Removal, Over 30" – 48” Diameter price line).

NOTE: Any trees with an over 48” diameter that are designated for removal will be paid per Bid Solicitation 3.52, Additional Work.

3.21 TRIMMING EXISTING TREES

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

A. Removal of all defective or undesirable limbs;

B. The repair of all injuries or wounds on existing trees in non-forested/wooded areas (ex. urban situations or a non-continuous wood line) and work requested above 16’ in forested/wooded areas; and

1. Work shall conform to ANSI Standards.

3.21.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR TRIMMING EXISTING TREES

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. All dead, dying, diseased, interfering, objectionable, and weak branches on the main trunk, as well as those within the leaf areas, shall be removed;

B. Healthy low branches shall not be removed, unless directed by the SCM;

C. All cuts shall be made sufficiently close to the trunk or parent limb, without cutting into the branch collar or leaving a protruding stub, so that closure can readily start. Clean cuts shall be made at all times;

D. Branches too heavy to handle shall be precut to prevent splitting or peeling the bark;

1. Where necessary, to prevent tree or property damage, branches shall be lowered to the ground by ropes or equipment;

E. On trees known to be diseased, tools shall be disinfected with methyl alcohol at 70 percent (denatured wood alcohol diluted appropriately with water) or commercial bleach after each cut where there is a danger of transmitting the disease on tools;

F. Old injuries shall be inspected. Those not closing properly and where the callus growth is not already completely established shall be traced;

G. In lifting the lower bottom branches of trees for under clearance, care shall be given to symmetrical appearance, and cuts shall not be made so large that they prevent normal sap flow; and

H. All waste material and debris resulting from trimming existing trees shall be disposed according to Subsection 201.10 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007.

3.21.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TRIMMING EXISTING TREES

Trimming existing trees shall be measured and paid for on a per tree basis, based upon the appropriate diameter measurement category when measured 4 1/2 feet above the ground. Categories of measurement are as follows:

A. Trimming existing trees, over 6" to 12" diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Trimming Existing Tree, Over 6” – 12" Diameter price line);

B. Trimming existing trees, over 12" to 18" diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Trimming Existing Tree, Over 12” – 18" Diameter price line);

C. Trimming existing trees, over 18" to 24" diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Trimming Existing Tree, Over 18” – 24" Diameter price line);

D. Trimming existing trees, over 24" to 30" diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Trimming Existing Tree, Over 24" – 30" Diameter price line); and

E. Trimming existing trees, over 30" diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Trimming Existing Tree, Over 30" Diameter price line).

3.22 PRE-EXISTING STUMP REMOVAL

For payment purposes, this work shall include, but not be limited to, the complete removal or grinding stumps of trees previously cut down in areas that are not included in Selective Thinning or Selective Clearing.

3.22.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR PRE-EXISTING STUMP REMOVAL

Stumps from trees that were previously cut down shall be removed completely or ground to 6” below the surface, as directed by the SCM. Stump holes shall be back-filled with topsoil.

3.22.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR PRE-EXISTING STUMP REMOVAL AND STUMP GRINDING

Stump removal or grinding shall be paid on a per stump basis, and each stump shall be categorized for payment based upon the appropriate diameter measurement category. Each stump shall be measured at the base of root flair at ground level. Categories of measurement are as follows:

A. Pre-existing stump removal, over 6” to 12” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Removal, Over 6” – 12" Diameter price line);

B. Pre-existing stump removal, over 12” to 24” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Removal, Over 12” – 24" Diameter price line);

C. Pre-existing stump removal, over 24” to 30” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Removal, Over 24” – 30" Diameter price line);

D. Pre-existing stump removal, over 30” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Removal, Over 30" Diameter price line);

E. Pre-existing stump grinding, over 6” to 12” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Grinding, Over 6" – 12" Diameter price line);

F. Pre-existing stump grinding, over 12” to 24” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Grinding, Over 12" – 24" Diameter price line);

G. Pre-existing stump grinding, over 24” to 30” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Grinding, Over 24" – 30" Diameter price line); and

H. Pre-existing stump grinding, over 30” diameter (per the All Inclusive Cost For Pre-Existing Stump Grinding, Over 30" Diameter price line).

3.23 TOP SOILING 5” THICK

This work shall consist of the furnishing, preparation and placement of approved topsoil 5”, +/- 1” thick.

3.23.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR TOP SOILING 5” THICK

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. All stones, 1” or larger in any dimension, and other debris such as wires, cables, tree roots, pieces of concrete, clods, and lumps must be removed and shall be properly disposed of by the Vendor

{Contractor} at no additional cost to the State. The surface shall be scarified to provide an improved bond between slope and topsoil. Slopes steeper than 2H:1V shall not be bladed smooth;

B. The topsoil shall be spread on a previously prepared surface in a uniform layer to produce the prescribed compacted thickness;

C. Top soiled areas outside the limits of work shall be protected against damage caused by the delivery, handling, or storage of materials, by washouts due to drainage diversion, by workers, or by equipment;

1. Any such damage shall be repaired by grading, fertilizing, seeding, and mulching by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State;

D. Where either embankment or excavation slopes become eroded during the work and before acceptance, repairs shall be made by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State; and

E. When the soil to be seeded has a pH value of less than 5.8, sufficient pulverized limestone shall be incorporated to increase the soil pH value to 6.5.

Recommended amounts (pounds per acre) of total oxides (calcium and magnesium) to raise the pH of a 5 +/-1 -inch layer of different soil textural classes to approximately 6.5 are as follows:

Recommended amounts of total oxides to raise the pH Soil (pH) Loamy Sand Sandy Loam Loam Silty Loam 5.7 - 5.3 300 - 600 600 - 1,035 900 - 1,500 1,200 5.6 - 4.9 900 - 1,200 1,500 2,100 1,800 5.2 - 4.5 1,500 1,800 2,700 2,400 4.8 - 4.1 - 2,100 3,300 3,000

4.4 - - - 3,600

The quantity of pulverized limestone required shall be in proportion to its magnesium and calcium oxide content.

3.23.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TOP SOILING 5” THICK

Top soiling 5” thick shall be measured by the square yard +/- one 1” thick with a target of 5”. Reduction in quantity shall not be made for areas designated for planting pits. Payment will be made based upon the awarded square yard unit pricing for the All Inclusive Cost For Topsoiling, 5” Thick price line.

3.24 FERTILIZING AND SEEDING AND STRAW MULCHING

This work shall consist of furnishing and placing pulverized limestone, fertilizer, straw mulch and seed mixtures.

3.24.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR FERTILIZING AND SEEDING AND STRAW MULCHING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Planting beds shall not be fertilized or seeded;

1. The fertilizer for establishing turf shall be limited to one (1) selection throughout the project;

2. Fertilizer shall be applied in the quantity necessary to yield 60 pounds of nitrogen per acre;

a. 30 pounds at the time of seeding and an additional application of 30 pounds

approximately six (6) months after seeding;

3. The second application shall be made during March or September;

4. The SCM may adjust the six (6) month period depending upon the date of the initial seeding;

B. The placing of fertilizer and seed shall conform to the following:

1. Soil Preparation: all areas to be seeded shall be cultivated to provide a reasonably firm

but friable seedbed;

a. The depth of cultivation shall be 4” – 6”. On slopes steeper than 3H:1V, the engineer may direct the depth of cultivation to be reduced;

b. All areas to be seeded shall meet the specified finish grades and shall be free of any weed or plant growth, stones of 2” or larger in any dimension, and other debris;

2. Optimum Seeding Seasons: seeding should be completed from March 1 to May 15 and from August 15 to October 15;

3. When weather and soil conditions are suitable, the SCM may permit seeding at other times for soil erosion control and sediment control;

4. The SCM shall be notified 24 hours before the seeding operation;

5. Application: turf seed mixtures shall be sown at the rate of 100 pounds per acre.

C. Seed and fertilizer may be placed by either of the following methods:

1. Hydraulic Method: the seed and fertilizer shall be mixed in water and then applied under pressure at the specified rates of 100 pounds per acre. Any area inadequately covered shall be retreated;

2. Dry Method: technical seeders, seed drills, landscape seeders, cultipacker seeders, and fertilizer spreaders may be used when seed and fertilizer are applied in dry form. Fertilizer in dry form shall be spread separately at the rates specified of 100 pounds per acre.

D. Hand operated seeding devices may be used when seed and fertilizer are applied in dry form on

areas that are inaccessible to mechanical seeders;

E. Finished seeded areas shall be smooth and shall conform to the prescribed lines and elevations. All seeded areas shall be mulched as specified in this bid solicitation;

F. Seeded areas shall be protected and maintained during construction until acceptance. Any damage to seeded areas caused by pedestrian or vehicular traffic or other causes shall be repaired by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State;

G. When a satisfactory stand of grass, substantially weed-free and containing plants in reasonable proportion to the various kinds of seed in the grass seed mixture, is not established on areas of seeding, the deficient areas shall be mowed, re-fertilized, re-seeded, and re-mulched at no additional cost to the State, until a satisfactory stand of grass is established; and

H. Straw mulch shall be applied in a layer 1” - 1 1/2" thick loose measurement and shall be bound in place with a synthetic plastic emulsion or vegetable-based gel and shall be mixed and applied hydraulically in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

3.24.B SEED MIXTURES

All grass seed in the following mixtures shall be DOT-certified seed with a sell-by date.

The State has a royalty-free license to use the proprietary seed mixtures, Fortress and Banner. Seed producers shall be notified when seed purchased is to be used on a State project and is not to be subject to royalties.

Grass seed mixtures shall be as follows:

Type A-4 Grass Seed Mixture Kind of Seed Percent of Total Weight of Mixture

Spreading Fescue 30% Chewing or Hard Fescue 30%

Kentucky Bluegrass 30% Perennial Rye 10%

Type D Grass Seed Mixture Kind of Seed Minimum Purity

Percent Minimum Germination

Percent Percent of Total

Weight of Mixture Spreading Fescue 85% 75% 30%

Chewing or Hard Fescue 95% 85% 30% Kentucky Bluegrass 92% 85% 30%

Perennial Rye 95% 80% 10%

3.24.C SHIPMENT OF SEED MIXTURE

Each shipment of grass seed mixture shall be accompanied by a certified weight slip and analysis of the composition, purity, and germination of the seed mixture.

The seed mixture shall certified by the seed house and sell-by date furnished at the time of delivery.

3.24.D METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR FERTILIZING AND SEEDING AND STRAW MULCHING

Fertilizing and Seeding Type A-4 & D (per the charts in Bid Solicitation Section 3.24.2, Seed Mixtures) shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing as specified in the All Inclusive Cost For Fertilizing & Seeding & Straw Mulching price line.

3.25 WILDFLOWER SEEDING AND STRAW MULCHING

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Seed Bed Preparation: there shall be no fertilizing and seeding of turf mixes in the wildflower seedbed areas.

1. Existing vegetation within the areas proposed for seeding shall be sprayed during the active growing season with glyphosate at the manufacturer’s recommended rates for total control of all plant material;

2. A second application shall be applied ten (10) days after the first application where necessary;

3. The dead vegetation shall be mowed as close as possible to the existing ground and

removed, then cultivated to a depth of 1” – 2”. Dead vegetation that is removed shall be properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State;

B. Seeding Seasons: wildflower seeding shall be done from August 15 to October 1 and from April 1

to May 31 inclusive;

C. Bed Layout: bed outlines shall be staked at a maximum spacing of 20 feet using 2” x 2” x 36“ wood stakes driven one (1) foot into the ground;

1. Spray paint the upper 2” of the stakes white. The staking shall define the limits for seed protection against mowing, over spray of herbicides, and other potential damage;

2. Place 12” x 24” metal “Pollinator Habitat” signs as shown on plans or as directed by the Office of Landscape Architecture. Digital files for the “Pollinator Habitat” sign will be provided as a *.eps or *.pdf file by the Office of Landscape Architecture;

D. Preparation of Seed Mixtures: the Vendor {Contractor} shall obtain specified wildflower seed mixes and provide the wildflower seed mixture and contact information for the seed company to the SCM for review and approval prior to ordering;

1. These mixes shall be combined with a carrier of clean, dry, salt-free sand in the presence of the SCM at a volume ratio of two (2) parts sand to one (1) part wildflower seed mix, to aid even distribution;

E. Seed Application: the prepared mix, seed, and sand shall be broadcast evenly by use of a hand-operated, hand-held, cyclone spreader.

1. The seeded area shall be lightly dragged over with a piece of chain-link fence to mix the seed into the soil surface; and

F. Mulching: seeded areas shall be mulched immediately after the application of seed. The mulch shall consist of straw, uniformly spread in a layer 1” – 1 1/2” inches thick, loose measurement, and shall be bound in place with a binder.

G. Sign and Stake Removal: remove stakes and signs as directed by the Office of Landscape Architecture.

3.25.A WILDFLOWER SEED MIXTURE

Wildflower seed mix shall be prepared by an established seed company, subject to the approval of the SCM. Seed company shall employ professional seed consultants and shall conform to the following requirements:

A. Contains a mixture of 15-20 native species suitable for the appropriate geological region and specific site conditions;

B. Contains a combination of annuals (minimum one (1), maximum five (5) species) and perennials (fall seeding will not require annuals);

C. Contains species providing a food source for pollinators;

D. Has a purity of 95-99% and a minimum germination rate of 85%;

E. Has an application rate of 8-24 pounds/acre depending on actual seed mixture composition and as recommended by the seed consultant; and

F. Contains sheep fescue at the rate of 1/4 pound per 1/2 pound of wildflower seed.

3.25.B SAMPLING AND TESTING OF WILDFLOWER SEEDS

Sampling and testing shall be performed according to the New Jersey State Seed Law (Revision of 1963), PL 1963, c.29 (C.4:8-17.13 et seq.) which can be found at the following link: https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/pdf/seedlaw.pdf.

The Rules and Regulations for Testing Seeds adopted by the Association of Official Seed Analysis shall also be observed and they can be found at the following link: https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/fsa.

3.25.C METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR WILDFLOWER SEEDING AND STRAW MULCHING

Wildflower seeding and straw mulching shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Seeding & Straw Mulching price line.

3.26 TOPSOIL STABILIZATION

This work shall include, but not be limited to, furnishing, placing, and stapling matting and blankets or hydraulically applying a fiber-reinforced matrix (FRM) on soil surfaces that have been prepared and seeded.

Topsoil stabilization matting shall consist one of the following:

A. Excelsior mat shall be wood excelsior, 48” ± 1” in width and weighing 0.8 pounds per square yard plus or minus 5%. The excelsior material shall be covered on both sides with a biodegradable netting to facilitate handling and to increase strength;

B. Jute mat shall be cloth of a uniform plain weave of un-dyed and un-bleached single jute yarn, 48” ± 1” in width and weighing an average of 1.2 pounds per linear yard of cloth with a tolerance of plus or minus 5%, with approximately 78 warp ends per width of cloth and 41 weft ends per linear yard of cloth;

1. The yarn shall be of a loosely twisted construction having an average twist of not less than 1.6 turns per inch and shall not vary in thickness by more than half its normal diameter;

C. Erosion control mulch blanket shall be a machine-produced mat of organic, biodegradable mulch material, such as straw, coconut fiber, or other approved materials;

1. The blanket shall be covered on both sides with a 1/2” by 1/2” polypropylene mesh netting;

2. The mesh shall contain a photodegradable accelerator, which will cause breakdown of the mesh within six (6) months; and

3. The blanket shall be sewn together with cotton thread. The minimum weight of the blanket shall be 0.5 pounds per square yard; and

D. Erosion control mulch blanket shall conform to the property values specified in the following table:

Requirements for Erosion Control Mulch Blanket Property Test Method Minimum Requirement Mass Per Unit Area of Blanket ASTM D 5261 0.5 lb./yd2 Performance @ Sheer Stress of 1.75 lb/ft2 ASTM D 6460 acceptable Breaking Force ASTM D 5035 75b./ft.

D. Turf Reinforcement Mat (TRM) shall be a machine-produced, 3-dimensional matrix of UV stabilized, pre- or post-consumer, non-degradable synthetic fibers, filaments, nettings, and/or wire mesh designed for permanent and critical hydraulic applications where design discharge velocities and shear stresses exceed the limits of mature, natural vegetation;

1. The Vendor {Contractor} shall ensure that the TRM provides sufficient thickness, strength and void space to allow soil filling or retention and the development of vegetation within the matrix;

2. The TRM shall conform to the property values specified in the following table:

Requirements for Turf Reinforcement Mat Property Test Method Minimum Requirement Thickness ASTM D 6525 0.25 in. Performance @ shear stress of 10.0 lb/ft2 ASTM D 6460 acceptable Breaking Force ASTM D 6818 175 lb./ft. UV Stability @ 500 hours ASTM D 4355 80%

E. Mechanically Bonded Fiber Matrix (MBFM) shall be a hydraulically applied, flexible erosion control blanket composed of long strand, thermally processed wood fibers, crimped, interlocking fibers, and performance enhancing additives. Ensure that the MBFM requires no curing period, and upon application, forms an intimate bond with the soil surface, creating a continuous, porous, absorbent erosion resistant blanket that allows for rapid germination and accelerated plant growth; and

1. MBFM shall conform to the property values specified in the following table:

Requirements for Mechanically Bonded Fiber Matrix Property Test Method Minimum Requirement Mass Per Unit Area ASTM D 6566 11.5 oz./yd Thickness ASTM D 6525 0.19 in Percent Light Penetration ASTM D 6567 99% Water Holding Capacity ASTM WK2652 1500% Color (fugitive dye) Observed Green

Endurance Test Method Minimum Requirement Functional Longevity Observed 1 yr Performance Test Method Minimum Requirement Cover Factor (6 in/hr event) ECTC Test Method No. 2 0.0066

Percent Effectiveness ECTC Test Method No. 2 99.34% Shear Stress ECTC Test Method No. 3 1 lb./ft2

3.26.A CONSTRUCTION REQUREMENTS FOR TOPSOIL STABILIZATION

Topsoil stabilization matting shall be performed in accordance with Bid Solicitation Attachment #1 – Topsoil Stabilization Matting, as well as the following requirements:

A. Before the matting or blankets are placed in position, the soil shall be smooth, soft, and free of depressions, clods, mounds, stones, or other debris that may prevent the matting from making complete contact with the soil;

1. After the soil has been properly shaped, fertilized, and seeded, the matting shall be laid out flat and anchored securely with staples, so that the matting is in contact with the soil at all points;

B. When topsoil stabilization matting is required in swales or medians, the matting may be installed in multiple widths;

C. When jute matting is being laid, the higher end shall be turned under 6” and buried in a vertical position;

D. Where laid end to end, the upper end of each downhill strip shall be buried 6” deep in vertical position with the uphill strip overlapping for a distance of 6” to form a smooth, shingle-like effect. Where laid parallel, the matting shall overlap from 3” – 6”;

E. When excelsior matting is being laid, the material shall be unrolled in the direction of the flow of water. Where laid end to end, the adjoining ends shall be butted snugly. Where laid parallel, the matting shall be butted snugly;

1. Bulging seams in matting material shall be cut and joints formed;

F. When erosion control mulch blanket is being laid, the method of construction shall be the same as excelsior matting;

G. Staples shall be placed along the outer edges of the matting and in a parallel row down the center of the strip. Staples shall be spaced 24” - 26” apart in the rows except along overlapping edges

where they shall be 12” - 13” apart. Staples shall be driven at an angle of approximately 30 degrees from horizontal;

H. In addition to the requirements stipulated in Bid Solicitation Section 3.32.1.G, staples shall be placed 12” apart across the matting at 50 foot intervals and at critical locations such as at inlets, check slots (if required), overlapping joints, and ends. The staples shall be driven flush with the surface of the matting and care shall be taken so as not to form depressions or bulges in the surface of the matting;

1. If any staples become loosened or raised, or if any matting becomes loose, torn, or undermined, the Vendor {Contractor} shall immediately perform repairs, subject to the approval of the SCM, at no additional cost to the State;

I. TRM shall be applied after grading topsoil. TRM shall be laid parallel to the direction of flow on

unseeded topsoil. Anchor and overlap mat as specified for Jute Matting. The 3-dimensional matrix shall be filled with topsoil to the thickness of the mat, then fertilized, seeded, and straw mulched;

J. MBFM shall be applied after grading topsoil, fertilizing and seeding. MBFM shall be installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, applying at least two (2) tons of dry product per acre. MBFM shall be used instead of mulch. Use approved hydro-spraying machines with fan-type nozzle (50-degree tip). To achieve optimum topsoil surface coverage, the MBFM shall be applied to the topsoil surface from opposing and crossing directions until a uniform thickness is produced; and

K. Mix 50 pounds of MBFM per 125 gallons of water; confirm loading rates with the equipment manufacturer.

3.26.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TOPSOIL STABILIZATION

The following shall serve as the method of measurement and compensation for topsoil stabilization:

A. Topsoil stabilization, jute or excelsior, shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Topsoil Stabilization, Jute Or Excelsior price line;

B. Topsoil stabilization, erosion control mulch blanket, shall be measured by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Topsoil Stabilization, Erosion Control Mulch Blanket price line;

C. Topsoil stabilization, turf reinforcement mat, shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Topsoil Stabilization, Turf Reinforcement Mat price line. Separate payment shall not be made for the topsoil infill; and

D. Topsoil stabilization, Mechanically Bonded Fiber Matrix (MBFM), shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Topsoil Stabilization, Mechanically Bonded Fiber Matrix (MBFM) price line.

3.27 PESTICIDE TREATMENT

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the wet or dry application of pesticides (fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides) on various plants, turf, weeds, and insects to improve the health of plants and improve the appearance of plant beds and turf as well as the removal and disposal of residual vegetative debris.

A. Work areas and plants shall be specified on plans or as directed;

B. Said work areas shall include existing and new trees and plants, shrub beds, around individual plants newly established or designated turf areas within the highway right of way;

C. The pesticide selected shall be approved by the SCM for use on the selected pests to be controlled. Pesticide treatment may be applied, as directed, in planting areas or on turf as pre-emergent or post-emergent; and

D. Pesticides shall be approved by the SCM prior to use and shall conform to N.J.A.C. 7:30 - 1 et seq.

3.27.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR PESTICIDE TREATMENT

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Pesticide shall be applied according to manufacturer's recommendations;

B. Pesticide shall be applied by, or under the supervision of a New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection certified pesticide applicator;

C. Pesticide shall be applied to designated areas with no resulting damage to existing plants. Any damaged plant materials shall be replaced with same value materials at no additional cost to the State; and

D. After the necessary time has elapsed for the herbicide to take effect, the weeds shall be removed and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State. If, after the manufacturer’s recommended date of effect, the target pests are not dead, then reapply the pesticide as per manufacturer’s directions.

3.27.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR PESTICIDE TREATMENT Pesticide treatment shall be measured and paid for by the awarded unit pricing per square foot of coverage per the All Inclusive Cost For Pesticide Treatment price line.

The price per square foot shall include the cost of furnishing all materials, labor and equipment to complete the work. All weeding and debris removal shall be included in the cost of the various pesticide treatments.

3.28 WEEDING

This work shall include, but not be limited to, using hand tools, removing weeds and other volunteer vegetation from planting beds, tree pits, stone paths, and other areas as directed.

A. Weeding shall include the removal and disposal of weeds, including the root;

B. Mulch or other landscape material disturbed during the weeding operation shall be raked smooth using hand tools; and

C. Weeding shall take place on or around April 1, June 1 and September 1. Maximum deviation from the original date is ten (10) calendar days.

3.28.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR WEEDING

Weeding shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Weeding price line.

3.29 DEEP ROOT FERTILIZATION

This work shall include, but not be limited to, soil testing, furnishing and placing dry or liquid fertilizer by vertically drilling into the soil or pressure injecting within the approximate drip line of the tree as directed. Fertilizer shall conform to the following requirements:

A. Fertilizer shall be a slow release approximate 3-2-1 ratio of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (N-P-K) and shall be adjusted as determined by soil testing; and

B. Pulverized limestone shall be as specified in Bid Solicitation Section 3.23, Top Soiling 5” Thick.

3.29.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR DEEP ROOT FERTILIZATION

A soil test to determine soil pH and fertilizer formulation shall be performed before fertilizing and results of the test shall be submitted to the SCM.

A. Soil should be tested by Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory or approved equal. Adjust pH appropriate for the species and soil texture;

B. Fertilizer shall be applied at a rate of two (2) to four (4) pounds of Nitrogen (N) per thousand square feet or as recommended by the soil test;

1. Fertilizer application shall be performed by a Licensed Fertilizer Applicator or Trained Fertilizer Applicator under supervision of a Licensed Fertilizer Applicator as per P.L. 2010, Chapter 112, which can be found here https://profact.rutgers.edu/Documents/NJ%20Act%20P.L.%202010%20c.112%20%28C58%2010A-64%29.pdf;

C. Fertilizer shall be applied in the top 18” of soil at locations spaced two (2) to three (3) feet apart and evenly distributed in concentric rings starting two (2) feet from the base of the tree going out to three (3) feet beyond the tree’s drip line or as directed;

D. Fertilizer shall be applied by direct pressure injection or by vertical drilling/augering to a depth of 18” as directed; and

E. If using dry fertilizer, mix the fertilizer with sand. Apply fertilizer by vertically drilling 2” wide by 18” deep holes with a power auger. Distribute the recommended amount of fertilizer equally filling each hole with the fertilizer mix using a funnel. Water the treatment area thoroughly after the fertilizer application and then fill the holes with sand or loose soil.

3.29.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DEEP ROOT FERTILIZATION

Deep root tree fertilization shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Deep Root Fertilization price line. The SCM shall calculate the areas of treatment.

Soil testing shall be included in the cost of deep root tree fertilization and shall not be paid separately.

Watering of the deep root fertilization shall be paid per the same stipulations as Bid Solicitation Section 3.10.2, Method of Measurement & Compensation for Tree Watering Bags.

3.30 RED ARGILLITE OR DELAWARE VALLEY STONE WITH LANDSCAPE WEED BARRIER

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the furnishing and installing of a landscape weed barrier on prepared soil surfaces. Once complete, the placement of a red argillite 2” thick or Delaware Valley stone surface 3” thick shall be placed over the landscape weed barrier, where shown on the plans.

The following requirements shall be met:

A. Red argillite, washed gravel, per NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007, shall be size No. 8 in the Standard Size of Coarse Aggregate chart (3/8” diameter);

1. All of the red argillite to be used for this item shall originate from the same source;

2. A sample of the red argillite shall be submitted to the SCM for review and approval prior to Vendor {Contractor} purchase;

B. Delaware Valley stone, washed gravel, river jack surface shall be composed of washed river type rounded stones conforming to Subsection 901.05 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007 and shall be graded to produce stones in the following ranges:

1. The washed gravel shall be in the 9.5 to 12.5 millimeter range and the river jacks in the 50 to 100 millimeter size range. The color of the stones shall occur as a blend of whites, grays, tans, reds, and light browns. All of the material shall originate from the same source and shall be processed as part of continual operation;

C. A sample of the material shall be submitted to the SCM for review and approval prior to Vendor {Contractor} purchase. Other materials shall conform to the following subsections:

1. Landscape weed barrier shall be a manufacturer’s product specifically designated for this purpose. Materials shall be 100% polypropylene woven fabric and black in color. The minimum weight shall be 93 grams per square meter; and

2. Bed or stone path edging shall be as specified in Bid Solicitation Section 3.34, Edging,

Metal, or Bid Solicitation Section 3.35, Edging, PVC or Plastic, as directed by the SCM.

3.30.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RED ARGILLITE OR DELAWARE VALLEY STONE WITH LANDSCAPE WEED BARRIER

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Prior to the installation of the landscape weed barrier, the underlying materials shall be shaped and compacted to a firm even surface and all plant material shall be completely installed;

1. The soil shall be smooth and free of depressions, clods, mounds, large stones or other debris;

B. A pre-emergent herbicide shall be applied to the area before the installation of the landscape weed barrier;

C. Where the landscape weed barrier is installed end to end, the upper end of each downhill strip shall be buried 3” deep in a vertical position with the uphill strip overlapping for a distance of 3” to form a smooth, shingle-like effect. When laid parallel, the landscape weed barrier shall overlap 3” minimum;

1. The landscape weed barrier shall be neatly trimmed to conform to the edge of the planting area;

D. If the landscape weed barrier becomes dislodged and exposed at any time during the plant establishment or replacement period, the landscape weed barrier shall be re-installed at no additional cost to the State; and

E. Bed or stone edging shall be used where directed and installed as per manufacturer instructions.

3.30.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR RED ARGILLITE OR DELAWARE VALLEY STONE WITH LANDSCAPE WEED BARRIER

Red argillite or Delaware Valley stone surface with landscape weed barrier shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Red Argillite Or Delaware Valley Stone Surface With Landscape Weed Barrier.

Landscape weed barrier shall be included in the cost of Red Argillite surface or Delaware Valley stone surface and shall not be paid separately.

Bed or Stone Edging shall be paid under Bid Solicitation Section 3.34.2, Method Of Measurement & Compensation For Edging, Metal (per the All Inclusive Cost For Edging, Metal), or Bid Solicitation Section

3.35.2, Method Of Measurement & Compensation For Edging, PVC Or Plastic (per the All Inclusive Cost For Edging, PVC Or Plastic), as applicable.

3.31 FENCING, DECORATIVE SPLIT RAIL

The fence height is approximately five (5) feet from the ground. Fence posts and rails shall be made of either pressure treated wood or Western Red Cedar. Materials shall be straight and free from knots or other defects that would compromise strength or quality. Posts shall have three (3) holes. Rails shall be 11 feet long including paddle ends, to accommodate a standard 10’– 4” fence post spacing.

Welded wire mesh shall be a minimum of 14 gauge wire, with either a green or black coating applied by the manufacturer. Staples shall be minimum 3/4”, 9-gauge wire fence staples.

3.31.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR FENCING, DECORATIVE SPLIT RAIL

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Split rail fence shall be installed straight along a string line. Posts shall be a minimum of two (2) feet deep and shall be plumb;

B. Fence post holes shall be dug either by hand with post hole digger or with a machine and auger. Auger diameter shall be of appropriate size such that soil disturbance is minimized around the base of the post;

1. Backfill shall be placed in lifts of approximately 6”, and each lift shall be tamped to compact the backfill as much as possible;

2. Concrete footings are not to be used; and

C. Install welded wire mesh such that it is straight and tight against the posts and rails. Secure welded wire mesh to the posts and rails using staples spaced at 18” – 24”. Allow a space of 3” – 4” at the bottom for future lawn maintenance, where appropriate.

3.31.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR FENCING, DECORATIVE SPLIT RAIL

Fencing, decorative split rail shall be measured and paid for by the awarded linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Fencing, Decorative Split Rail price line.

3.32 TURF PAVERS

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the supply and installation of turf pavers. The purpose of turf pavers is for vehicle use. The following requirements shall be met:

A. Turf pavers shall be Hastings Checkerblock steel reinforced concrete units or approved equal;

1. Turf pavers shall be designed for use in commercial applications, and manufactured in accordance with ASTM 1319 (Standard Specification for Concrete Grid Paving Units). This standard requires a minimum compressive strength of 5,000 psi;

2. Paver units shall be 24” long x 24” wide, with a minimum thickness of 4”. Turf paving units shall provide a surface ratio of 75% grass to concrete;

B. Sub-Grade Preparation: Sub-grade shall be excavated to proper elevation and then compacted to 98% density. Install geotextile filter fabric in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;

C. Base Requirements: The base shall be coarse, granular, and free from soil particles. Material shall be 100% crushed with fines graded as specified in Bid Solicitation Section 3.33, Dry Laid Colored Concrete Paver System;

D. The base thickness shall be in accordancei with the manufacturer's recommendation based on the site conditions. The main application shall be for vehicular use; and

E. Setting Bed shall be sand or stone dust screed to a thickness of 1” – 1 1/2” in addition to the manufacturers’ recommended base.

3.32.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR TURF PAVERS The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Turf pavers shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation. The Vendor {Contractor} shall provide the technical specifications and installation recommendations from the chosen manufacturer; and

B. Cutting: a smooth cut shall be required such as with a concrete saw. Fill voids with topsoil to the top of the turf paver, and rake topsoil smooth and even. Seed per plan or direction of the SCM.

3.32.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR TURF PAVERS

Turf pavers shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square yard unit pricing of turf paver and topsoil supplied and installed per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Turf Pavers price line.

There shall be no separate payment for topsoil operations associated with this item. Seeding shall be measured and paid per Section 3.24.4 using the “All Inclusive Cost For Fertilizing & Seeding & Straw Mulching ” price line.

3.33 DRY LAID COLORED CONCRETE PAVER SYSTEM

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the supply and installation of Concrete Pavers. There shall be (2) two pay items based on total square footage of the installed paver system and number of paver cuts, taken as a percentage of the total. The proper dust control shall be used for paver cuts.

The following requirements shall be met:

A. Paver Edging shall be as per item Metal Edging;

B. Concrete Pavers shall have a minimum thickness of 2 3/8” and have a compressive strength of 8000 P.S.I. The color, size and style of pavers shall be directed;

1. Vendors {Contractors} shall provide pavers from one of the following SCM-approved manufacturers: Anchor Concrete, EPHenry, Unilock, Concrete Stone & Tile Corp, or an SCM-approved equal;

C. Sub-grade Preparation: sub-grade shall be excavated to proper elevation and then compacted to 95% density;

D. Base requirements: the base shall be coarse granular and free from soil particles. Material shall be 100% crushed with fines graded to the following limits:

Sieve Size % Passing

1” 100

3/4” 70-100

3/8” 50-80

No. 4 35-65

No. 10 25-50

No. 40 15-30

No. 200 5-12

E. The base thickness shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation based on the site conditions. The main application shall be for pedestrian use;

1. Paver joints shall be swept with an approved polymeric sand;

F. Setting bed shall be stone dust or stone screed to a thickness of 1” – 1 1/2” in addition to manufacturers’ recommended base;

G. Pavers shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation. The Vendor {Contractor} shall provide the technical specifications and installation recommendations from the chosen manufacturer (see Bid Solicitation Section 3.33.B.1);

H. Paver edge restraints shall be aluminum used for paver installations;

1. Paver edge shall be used where directed and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions;

I. A 60% play sand and 40% dry mortar mix shall be swept into the joints or approved commercially available pre-mix material;

J. Cutting: a smooth cut shall be required such as with a concrete saw;

K. Patterns shall be a typical installation such as a running bond pattern; and

L. Color shall be selected by the SCM for each project.

3.33.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DRY LAID COLORED CONCRETE PAVER SYSTEM

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Dry laid colored concrete paver system, maximum of 200 sq. ft. and maximum 5% cuts to pavers (according to plan submitted by the SCM) shall be paid for by the awarded square foot pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Dry Laid Colored Concrete Paver System Up To 200 Square Feet price line;

B. Dry laid colored concrete paver system, over 200 sq. ft. and 5% cut pavers (according to plan submitted by the SCM) shall be paid for by the awarded square foot pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Dry Laid Colored Concrete Paver System Over 200 Square Feet price line;

NOTE: If over 5% cut pavers is required on either item, then State shall pay under the price line for Saw Cutting on Hard Surfaces (See Bid Solicitation Section 3.40.1) ; and

C. All paver edging shall be paid under Section 3.34.2 “Method Of Measurement & Compensation

For Edging, Metal.”

3.34 EDGING, METAL

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the furnishing and installation of metal edging to restrain pavers or to edge planting beds or stone paths.

The following requirements shall be met:

A. Paver edging shall be aluminum angle 1/8” thick by 1 3/8” high and 1 1/4“ flange with flexible aluminum matching stakes and secure splices provided by the manufacture which shall resist frost uplift; and

B. Bed edging or stone path edging shall be 3/16” thick x 5” high aluminum with matching stakes, end stake adaptors, and secure splices (which shall resist frost uplift) provided by the manufacturer.

3.34.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EDGING, METAL

All metal edging shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

3.34.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR EDGING, METAL

Metal edging shall be measured and paid for by the awarded linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Edging, Metal price line.

3.35 EDGING, PVC OR PLASTIC

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the furnishing and installation of plastic edging to retain pavers or to edge planting beds or stone paths.

A. Bed edging or stone path edging shall be 1/8” inch thick flexible plastic angle, 1 3/8” high with 1 1/4“ flange.

1. Splices shall be staked and secure and matching stakes shall be provided by the manufacturer. Said stakes shall be of sufficient length to resist frost uplift.

3.35.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EDGING, PVC OR PLASTIC All PVC or plastic edging shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

3.35.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR EDGING, PVC OR PLASTIC

PVC or plastic edging shall be measured and paid for by the awarded linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Edging, PVC Or Plastic price line.

3.36 STACKED COLORED CONCRETE BLOCK RETAINING WALL SYSTEM

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the supply and installation of stacked concrete blocks.

A. Engineering and installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations;

1. Some suggested sources include Anchor, EPHenry, Keystone or SCM-approved equal;

2. Walls three (3) feet and higher shall require manufacturer’s details specific to the site;

B. Included in the cost is the prepared sub base, which shall be compacted with a minimum of 6” of base material. In general, the first block shall be 1” below finished grade for every 8” of height;

C. Capstone shall be used on final course and be adhered with the manufacturer’s recommended adhesive bonding material;

1. Fill all voids and backfill 6” behind the wall with 1/2” to 3/4” size clean stone with a filter fabric between the stone and existing grade. Compact backfill every course; and

D. Concrete block shall have a minimum compressive strength of 3000 P.S.I. meeting or exceeding ASTM C-90-75 standards, which can be downloaded at the following link: https://www.astm.org/DIGITAL_LIBRARY/STP/PAGES/STP24968S.htm. Blocks shall be 6” to 12” high according to product type.

3.36.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR STACKED COLORED CONCRETE BLOCK RETAINING WALL SYSTEM

Stacked colored concrete block retaining wall areas shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square foot unit pricing based upon the appropriate height (up to three (3) feet or three (3) feet and higher) per the following price lines:

A. All Inclusive Cost To Install Stacked Colored Concrete Block Retaining Wall System, Up To Three (3) Feet High; or

B. All Inclusive Cost To Install Stacked Colored Concrete Block Retaining Wall System Three (3) Feet And Higher.

3.37 DRY STACKED STONE WALL

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the supply and installation of natural stone to create an ornamental raised planting area.

A. Stone shall be rounded stone, approximately 6” – 12” diameter or rectangular, flat, platey stone approximately 3/4” - 2 1/2” thick by 12” wide by 12” -18” long; and

B. Type and color shall be determined by the SCM.

3.37.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR DRY STACKED STONE WALL The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. The bottom course of stone shall be placed in a compacted trench 6” deep by 12” wide and built up to create a raised planting area from 12” - 18” in height above existing ground;

B. The stone shall be placed such that it interlocks together to resist lateral movement; and

C. Back fill trench with existing soil and backfill wall with topsoil and firm as the backfill is placed.

3.37.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR DRY STACKED STONE WALL

Dry stacked stone wall shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square foot of wall face unit pricing, including that which is below ground, per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Dry Stacked Stone Wall price line.

3.38 NATURAL STONE BOULDERS

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the furnishing and installation of stone boulders. Natural stone boulders shall be rounded or fractured stone from natural glacial deposits or rivers ranging in nominal sizes averaging 12” minimum dimension to 48” maximum dimension allowing for natural variations.

3.38.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR NATURAL STONE BOULDERS The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Natural stone boulders shall be placed as directed and installed in a depression or trench of sufficient depth to keep the boulders from moving; and

B. When used as to create a raised planter, a landscape weed barrier, or Delaware Valley Stone, the stone shall be installed for drainage and topsoil shall be prevented from washing between the natural stone boulders.

3.38.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR NATURAL STONE BOULDERS

Natural stone boulders shall be measured and paid for by the awarded unit pricing per ton for the All Inclusive Cost To Install Natural Stone Boulders price line.

Landscape weed barrier and drainage stone shall be paid under Section 3.30.2 “All Inclusive Cost To Install Red Argillite Or Delaware Valley Stone Surface With Landscape Weed Barrier.”

3.39 HARD SURFACE REMOVAL

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the removal of sidewalks, concrete or bluestone for tree pits.

A. Locations shall be marked by the SCM;

B. The Vendor {Contractor}, as always, prior to removal of material shall be responsible for call in for a utility mark out; and

C. Excavated materials shall be properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.39.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR HARD SURFACE REMOVAL Hard surface removal areas shall be measured and paid for by the awarded square foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Hard Surface Removal price line.

3.40 SAW CUTTING OF HARD SURFACES

Saw cutting shall be accomplished by a wet diamond bladed saw method on surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.

A. Areas to be cut are rectangular or square shapes that shall be made with straight lines with no overlap on perpendicular cuts;

B. The purpose is to prepare areas for street tree planting; and

C. The Vendor {Contractor} shall protect adjacent surfaces from damage and runoff.

3.40.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SAW CUTTING OF HARD SURFACES

Saw cutting of hard surface areas shall be measured and paid for by the awarded linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Saw Cutting Of Hard Surfaces price line.

3.41 GRAFFITI REMOVAL AND ANTI-GRAFFITI APPLICATION

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. To remove graffiti, apply a commercially available citrus-based graffiti removal product or SCM-approved equal;

B. Remove all graffiti from designated area with a combination of power-washing and scrubbing without damage to existing surface. Approved manufacturer Equipment Trades Services; product Taginator or approved equal; and

C. Apply a clear coat sacrificial graffiti system in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation. Product shall be Tex.Cote by Textured Coatings of America Inc. or approved equal.

3.41.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR GRAFFITI REMOVAL AND ANTI-GRAFFITI APPLICATION

Graffiti removal and anti-graffiti application for each item shall be measured and paid for by the awarded per square foot unit pricing for the All Inclusive Cost For Graffiti Removal And Anti-Graffiti Application price line.

3.42 EXCAVATION, UNCLASSIFIED

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the excavation, reuse, or disposal of unknown material from designated locations.

3.42.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR EXCAVATION, UNCLASSIFIED

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Excavate, dispose or reuse material shall be as directed by the SCM; and

B. Excavated material not reused on site and directed to be removed from the site becomes the property of the Vendor {Contractor}. The Vendor {Contractor} will then assume the responsibility of where the material is disposed or how it will be reused off site.

3.42.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR EXCAVATION, UNCLASSIFIED

Excavation, unclassified shall be measured and paid for by the awarded per cubic yard unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Excavation, Unclassified price line.

3.43 CAUTION FENCE

This work shall include, but not be limited to, the furnishing and installation of a blaze orange caution fence with posts.

The following requirements shall be met:

A. Fabric shall be plastic caution fence made from HDPE with a minimum tensile strength of 5000 pounds per square inch when utilizing the ASTM D648 194 test method (ASTM D648 document can be purchased at this link: https://www.astm.org/Standards/D648.htm). The color shall be blaze orange and shall be ultraviolet stabilized;

B. Posts shall be made of high carbon steel with a flanged leg channel section or flanged leg U-Bar section having a uniform thickness of metal of not less than 1/8”;

C. The posts weigh shall be at least two (2) pounds per linear foot, exclusive of ground plate, and are designed to be easily driven into the ground;

D. Equip each post with at least 11 riveted lugs. Do not equip posts with punched or welded lugs; and

E. Galvanize posts.

3.43.A CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS FOR CAUTION FENCE

Caution fence shall be installed, where directed, with a maximum post spacing of ten (10) feet.

3.43.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR CAUTION FENCE

Caution fence shall be measured and paid for by the awarded per linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Installation Of Caution Fence price line.

3.44 SOIL EROSION, SEDIMENT CONTROL AND SEDIMENT CONTROL MEASURES SCOPE

This work shall include, but not be limited to, construction and maintenance of various temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures, including relocating them as required for stage construction.

All soil erosion items include removal, when directed by the SCM, and it shall be done by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

The following requirements shall be met:

A. Wood stakes, posts, and boards shall be solid, reasonably knot-free lumber conforming to the nominal size specified in the Soil Erosion Control Manual (https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/eng/documents/SESC/); and

B. Welded steel wire mesh fabric shall conform to Subsection 915.03 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007.

C. The Vendor {Contractor} shall incorporate all permanent pollution control features into the

project at the earliest practicable time. Temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be coordinated with the permanent pollution control features and with the construction of pavers, retaining walls to the maximum extent practical to ensure economical, effective, and continuous erosion control throughout the life of the Blanket P.O., as outlined in the approved progress schedule.

D. Before all grubbing operations, soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be installed. When un-stabilized areas caused by site development, grading, or other earth disturbing activities exist beyond 14 calendar days, the areas disturbed shall be seeded and mulched;

1. These requirements pertain to perimeter controls, berms, dams, swales, ditches, and slopes. Upon completion of the grading or construction, disturbed areas shall be permanently stabilized within seven (7) calendar days. Streams shall be protected from soil erosion and sediment. Soil being stockpiled shall be placed in well-drained areas no closer than 50 feet from streams, wetlands, floodplains, and other watercourses, unless otherwise directed. The stockpiles shall be seeded and mulched. Adequate temporary soil erosion and sediment controls shall be provided around the stockpiles until such time as vegetation is established on the piles;

E. Temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be used to correct conditions that develop during construction that were not foreseen during design.

F. In the event that temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures are required due to the Vendor’s {Contractor’s} failure to install or maintain soil erosion and sediment controls, either as part of the work or as directed, such work shall be performed by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State;

G. If the Vendor {Contractor} is not in compliance with soil erosion and sediment control provisions, corrective actions shall be taken immediately and the SCM may suspend the work,

wholly or in part, according to Subsection 108.15, of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007, until the Vendor {Contractor} is fully in compliance. All corrective and remedial work required to bring the Vendor {Contractor} into compliance shall be performed at no additional cost to the State; and

I. Temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be removed when necessary to allow for the installation of permanent control features or as permanent controls become functional.

NOTE: Before acceptance, all items used for temporary soil erosion and sediment control shall be removed unless directed by the SCM that specific items remain in place. Any items to be removed shall be done by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.44.A LIMITATIONS OF OPERATIONS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Clearing and grubbing operations shall be so scheduled and performed that grading and mulching, seeding, and other permanent pollution control features can follow immediately thereafter according to the approved progress schedule;

1. Should seasonal limitations make such coordination unrealistic, additional temporary soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be required between successive construction stages, as directed by the SCM;

B. The amount of surface area of erodible earth material exposed at one time by clearing and grubbing, excavation, borrow, or fill operations, without stabilization, shall not exceed 17 acres for clearing and grubbing operations, or 17 acres for grading operations without prior approval. The SCM may increase or decrease these amounts commensurate with the Vendor’s {Contractor’s} capability and progress in keeping the construction current with the approved progress schedule;

C. To ensure that the measures function properly throughout the life of the project, soil erosion and sediment control measures shall be maintained during the construction season as well as during winter months and other times when the project is closed down;

D. Soil erosion and sediment controls shall be immediately inspected after each rain and any corrective work shall immediately be performed to return the soil erosion and sediment control measures to proper function, as directed by the SCM. Riprap stones, coarse aggregate, silt fence, or hay bales damaged due to washouts or siltation shall be replaced as directed by the SCM; and

E. Sediment traps and basins shall be cleaned out when their capacity reaches 50%. Silt fences, stone outlet structures, dams, and hay bales shall have sediment removed when the sediment reaches 50% of the height of the soil erosion and sediment control measure. Sediment removed shall be disposed of according to Subsection 202.12 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007. Removal of sediment shall be done by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.45 SILT FENCE

Silt fence shall consist of geotextile fabric at least three (3) feet wide to provide for a two (2) foot high fence after one (1) foot of fabric is buried in the existing soil. Heavy duty silt fence shall consist of geotextile fabric at least four (4) feet wide to provide for a three (3) foot high fence after one (1) foot of fabric is buried in the existing soil.

A. Sections of fabric shall be overlapped a minimum of 18” and then joined in such a manner that, when in operation, the sections work effectively as a continuous fence. Fence posts shall be installed at a slight angle toward the anticipated runoff source.

3.45.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR SILT FENCE

Silt fence of the various types shall be measured and paid for by the awarded per linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Silt Fence price line.

3.46 HAY BALE CHECK DAMS WITH TEMPORARY STONE OUTLETS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Hay bales shall conform to Subsection 919.13 of NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007 and shall be bound with wire or baling twine;

1. The twine shall be an ultraviolet light stabilized polypropylene that has a knot strength of 170 pounds and straight break strength of 300 pounds;

B. Hay bales shall be embedded 4” into the ground and anchored in place with two (2) wood stakes per bale;

1. The temporary stone outlets, consisting of riprap stones conforming to the requirements for temporary riprap, shall be placed in the center of each flow line;

2. Coarse aggregate size No. 2 shall be placed immediately in the upgrade of each stone outlet;

C. The riprap stones and coarse aggregate shall be placed on geotextile fabric that shall be buried in the soil; and

1. When sections of geotextile fabric need to be joined, the sections shall be overlapped a minimum of 18” in the direction of flow.

3.46.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR HAY BALES AND HAY BALE CHECK DAMS WITH TEMPORARY STONE OUTLETS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Hay bales required as directed and for maintenance replacement of bales for the various soil erosion and sediment controls shall be measured and paid by the awarded rate per hay bale per the All Inclusive Cost For New And Replacement Hay Bales price line; and

B. Hay bale check dams with temporary stone outlets shall be measured and paid for by the awarded per linear foot unit pricing per the All Inclusive Cost For Hay Bale Check Dams With Temporary Stone Outlet price line.

3.47 INLET FILTERS

Use heavy-duty bag-type inlet filters that secure in place using the inlet grate. Inlet filter bags shall be installed in any storm drain inlet or catch basin downstream of any soil disturbance. Before soil is disturbed, the Vendor {Contractor} shall contact the SCM to identify inlets to be protected.

3.47.A METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION FOR INLET FILTERS

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall adhere to the following:

A. Remove the grate from the drainage structure;

B. Clean the lip of the inlet frame and ensure that it is free of stone and dirt;

C. Drop inlet filter bag through the clear opening, ensuring the lip or hanging apparatus is properly placed and secure;

D. Replace the grate and confirm that it is resting firm and level on the inlet structure.

E. Inlet filter bags shall be inspected and cleaned periodically throughout their use, particularly after any heavy rain or suspected heavy sedimentation event.

F. Remove, empty, and replace any inlet filter bag when sediment reaches 50% of filter bag capacity, or any time when sediment or debris has accumulated in a manner that reduces the filter bag’s effectiveness; and

G. Accumulated sediment shall be removed and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State. This removal process shall be performed in accordance with the NJDOT Standard Specifications for Road & Bridge 2007.

3.47.B METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR INLET FILTERS

Inlet filters shall be measured and paid for by the awarded unit pricing for each unit supplied and installed per the All Inclusive Cost To Install Inlet Filters price line.

3.48 HAY BALE BARRIER

Hay bale barrier shall consist of hay bales that completely encircle inlet drainage structures or are placed individually, as directed by the SCM.

A. The perimeter length of the hay bale barrier shall be at least four (4) times the perimeter length of the inlet structure. Hay bales shall not encroach into the traveled way;

B. Hay bales placed around inlet structures within earthen areas shall be embedded 4” into the ground and anchored in place with two wood stakes per bale;

C. Hay bales placed around inlet structures within pavement areas shall only be placed on top of the pavement and tied together to prevent movement; and

D. Hay bales placed on pavement areas shall not be anchored in place.

3.48.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR HAY BALE BARRIER Hay bale barriers shall be measured and paid for by the awarded pricing per each unit per the All Inclusive Cost For Hay Bale Barrier price line.

A unit shall consist of each inlet that has a hay bale barrier constructed around it.

3.49 DUST AND DIRT CONTROL MEASURES SCOPE

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. Employ construction methods and means that keep flying dust to a minimum;

B. The Vendor {Contractor} shall also sprinkle water on the project and on roads, streets, and other areas immediately adjacent to the project limits, wherever pedestrian or vehicular traffic, or buildings that are occupied, in use or, are affected by such dust caused by the Vendor’s {Contractor’s} hauling or other construction operations; and

C. The Vendor {Contractor} shall provide for prompt removal from existing roadways of all dirt and other materials that have been spilled, washed, tracked, or otherwise deposited thereon by its hauling and other operations whenever the accumulation is sufficient to cause the formation of mud, interfere with drainage, damage pavements, or create a traffic hazard.

NOTE: Dust and dirt control measures shall be implemented by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.50 CONSTRUCTION DRIVEWAY

To minimize tracking of dirt and other materials onto existing roadways, a construction driveway shall be constructed at locations where vehicles exit a work site.

A. The construction driveway shall consist of a layer of broken stone, which shall be a minimum 4” thick and 100 feet long where practical, and of sufficient width to serve the intended purpose; and

B. The broken stone shall be 2 1/2” inches nominal size and the driveway shall be maintained by top dressing with additional stone, as directed. and when no longer required, the broken stone shall be removed and properly disposed of by the Vendor {Contractor} at no additional cost to the State.

3.50.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR CONSTRUCTION DRIVEWAY The construction driveway shall be measured and paid for by the awarded unit pricing per ton of broken stone per the All Inclusive Cost To Construct A Construction Driveway price line.

Top dressing of construction driveway with additional stone shall be paid per ton of broken stone under this section of the Bid Solicitation using the same All Inclusive Cost To Construct A Construction Driveway price line.

3.51 MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC

The Vendor {Contractor} shall adhere to one (1) of the following standards as specified by SCM, per the requirements of the project, when working in areas where traffic may be affected and the safety of workers and the motoring public must be considered:

A. NJDOT Maintenance Work Zone Safety Set-Up Guide, current edition. Mobile, Short Duration and Short-Term Stationary Work are found on the web at the following link: https://www.state.nj.us/transportation/about/safety/wzsp.shtm;

B. Standard Roadway Construction/Traffic Control/Bridge Construction Details, current edition. [Intermediate Stationary and Long-Term Stationary Work] are found on the web at the following link: http://www.state.nj.us/transportation/eng;

C. Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Current Edition https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/; and

D. Traffic Control Plan designed and signed by a DOT traffic engineer.

Attention is called to the extremely large volume of traffic on roadways included within the limits of the areas that must be maintained at all times during the life of this contract. The maintenance and protection of traffic with minimum interference is of prime importance.

E. No work shall interfere with traffic or restrict the width of pavement available for traffic except as allowed by the DOT Regional Traffic Engineer; and

F. Where full lane closures are necessary and approved by DOT Traffic Operations to safely complete work, these closures shall be performed by crews sufficiently trained and equipped to execute the closure.

Major road building construction may be in progress along portions of roadways included within the limits of this Blanket P.O.

G. The Vendor {Contractor} must adhere to State and local laws pertaining to traffic control and maintenance;

1. Any fines summoned to the Vendor {Contractor} as a result of traffic law violations are the responsibility of the Vendor {Contractor};

H. Traffic control with mounted crash cushion shall be provided to protect a work zone when directed and may include multiple sites per day; and

I. Traffic control and safety shall include work zone set-up safety signs, cones, barrels, flaggers, and other necessary safety work zone set-up when directed and may include multiple sites per day.

3.51.A METHOD OF MEASUREMENT & COMPENSATION FOR MAINTENANCE AND PROTECTION OF TRAFFIC

The following rates shall apply:

A. Traffic control truck with mounted crash cushion shall be paid per diem per the All Inclusive Cost To Utilize A Traffic Control Truck With Mounted Crash Cushion price line;

B. Traffic control and safety, moving operation shall be paid per diem per the All Inclusive Cost For Traffic Control And Safety, Moving Operation price line;

C. Traffic control and safety, shoulder closing shall be paid per diem per the All Inclusive Cost For Traffic Control And Safety, Shoulder Closing price line; and

D. Traffic control and safety, lane closing shall be paid per diem per the All Inclusive Cost For Traffic Control And Safety, Lane Closing price line.

3.52 ADDITIONAL WORK

Additional requirements to this section can be found in Bid Solicitation Section 5.16, Additional Work And/Or Special Projects.

The Vendor {Contractor} may be required to provide additional work related to the initial scope of the work specified within this Bid Solicitation.

A. The price for these services may be based upon a loaded cost per hour;

B. Additional work must be billed separately from any other work listed on the above scope of work and such billings must contain detailed supporting documentation;

C. Payment for work directed to be performed as Additional Work represents full payment for that work;

D. A detailed cost estimate for any work to be paid under Additional Work shall be submitted to the SCM. This estimate shall include the following:

1. Direct labor;

2. Labor fringe benefits;

3. Indirect labor costs;

4. Materials, specialized equipment that would typically not be used in other items specified in this Bid Solicitation and not owned by the Vendor {Contractor};

5. Unforeseen expenses (subject to approval of SCM);

6. 10% profit on direct labor cost, labor fringe benefit, and material costs;

7. 15% overhead on direct labor cost, labor fringe benefit cost, and material costs;

E. The State shall not compensate the Vendor {Contractor} for any time spent traveling to and from the job site;

F. If any supplies, parts, or equipment are required to support the Additional Work requirements, these shall also be priced on a cost plus mark-up/discount basis not to exceed the 10% profit or 15% overhead cost;

G. All markups shall be based upon the price paid by the Vendor {Contractor}. All shipping costs are considered to be part of the overall cost. Reimbursement will be provided only upon submission of supplier's invoice;

H. The State may, at its discretion provide any supplies, parts or equipment for use by the Vendor {Contractor}; and

I. Payment for Additional Work shall be paid per the Net Price Line For Additional Work price line.

3.53 VENDOR {CONTRACTOR} REQUIREMENTS GENERAL

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. The Vendor {Contractor} shall comply with all procedural instructions that may be issued by the SCM during the term of the Blanket P.O.;

B. The Vendor {Contractor} may be required to meet with the SCM prior to the start of the Blanket P.O. At this time, the Vendor {Contractor} may be required to submit a plan of operation to the Using Agency;

C. After Blanket P.O. is awarded, supervision, direction and inspection of work shall be performed by the SCM and all inquiries and correspondence shall be directed to him/her;

D. The SCM shall initiate notification to the Vendor {Contractor} by phone, certified mail, electronic mail or electronic facsimile the location(s), quantity(ies), and when to commence work;

E. The Vendor {Contractor} shall commence planting and/or construction operations within ten (10) business days from the acceptance date on the returned receipt of the notification noted in section 2.52.D above or as otherwise approved by the SCM; and

F. The Vendor {Contractor} shall conduct its operations for each project, unless otherwise approved by the SCM, on consecutive business days until an entire planting site is completed.

3.53.A VENDOR {CONTRACTOR} PERSONNEL

The selected Vendor {Contractor} shall abide by the following:

A. All personnel shall be physically able to successfully complete their assigned work and shall be free from communicable disease;

B. All personnel shall be capable employees thoroughly trained and qualified in the work assigned to them;

C. The Vendor {Contractor} shall remove from the work crew any of its personnel who are, in the opinion of the State, guilty of improper conduct or who are not qualified or needed to perform the work assigned to them;

1. Examples of improper conduct include, but are not limited to: insobriety, sleeping at the job site during work hours, insubordination, theft, tardiness or substandard performance. The SCM, or representative thereof, may direct the Vendor {Contractor} to replace any offending personnel immediately;

D. The SCM may require the replacement and removal from the work crew any employee who is identified as a potential threat to the health, safety, security, general well-being, or operational mission of the facility and its population;

E. There shall be no consumption of alcoholic beverages while on State property or during the performance of any work related to this Blanket P.O.;

F. The Vendor’s {Contractor’s} personnel must observe all regulations in effect at the State agency, including any applicable security sign-in/sign-out procedures;

1. Under no circumstances shall the Vendor {Contractor} or its personnel represent themselves as employees of the State; and

G. All Vendor {Contractor} employees shall be subject to such security clearance as required by the SCM.

3.53.B EQUIPMENT

The Vendor {Contractor} shall supply the necessary construction and safety equipment to fulfill the terms of this Blanket P.O.

A. All equipment shall be subject to approval by the SCM;

B. At the time of inspection, all equipment to be used during any work for this Blanket P.O. shall be assembled and in the possession of the Vendor {Contractor} for visual inspection;

C. This Blanket P.O. does not preclude the use of rented equipment, but rental equipment shall be subject to approval of the SCM and the Vendor {Contractor} shall incur all rental fees required to complete work specified by this Blanket P.O.; and

D. All equipment shall be operated so as not to damage public or private property.

3.54 PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACTOR REGISTRATION ACT

This act specifies that no Vendor {Contractor} or Subcontractor shall engage in, any Blanket P.O. (or part thereof) for public work which is subject to the provisions of N.J.S.A 34:11-56.48, et seq. for the construction, reconstruction, demolition, alteration, custom fabrication, repair work, or maintenance work done under contract and paid for in whole or in part out of the funds of a public body or if the property or premises are owned by the public body, unless the Vendors {Contractors} and named Subcontractors maintain a valid public works certificate issued by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development during the duration of the Blanket P.O. period. All Vendors {Contractors} and

named Subcontractors must maintain a valid public works certificate issued by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development during the duration of the Blanket P.O. period.

3.54.A PREVAILING WAGE

The NJ State Prevailing Wage Act, N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.25 et seq. applies to public work and building services performed under this procurement. This Act establishes wage standards for all workers performing public work and building services for properties or premises owned or leased by the State, requiring the payment of the State Prevailing Wage rate to all employees performing those duties. See N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.25 to -56.47; N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.58 to -56.70. Prevailing wages amounts are listed by county. It is the responsibility of the Vendor {Contractor} to comply with the requirements of the State Prevailing Wage Act as well as adhere to the requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) during the duration of this contract and any extensions exercised. Prevailing wages by county can be found on the wage determinations website at http://www.wdol.gov/sca.aspx. If it is found that any worker employed by the Vendor {Contractor} or any subcontractor under the Blanket P.O. has been paid a rate of wages less than the prevailing wage required to be paid under the Blanket P.O., the State may terminate the Vendor {Contractor} and/or subcontractor’s right to proceed with the work, or such part of the work as to which there has been a failure to pay required wages and may prosecute the work to completion.

3.54.B CERTIFIED PAYROLL RECORDS

N.J.A.C. 12:60-5.1(c) requires that certified payroll records must be submitted to Using Agencies by all Vendors {Contractors} and Subcontractors, for each employee on the Project within ten (10) days of the payment of wages. The Using Agency will receive, file, and make these records available for inspection during its normal business hours.

3.0 Quote Content

A quotation must arrive at NJDOT in accordance with this RFP, within the time frame indicated to the e-mail address noted in this RFP. The quote should be submitted in two (2) sections with the content of each as indicated below.

A. Section 1 – Forms

The Vendor must submit all the forms listed on the checklist. The checklist and required forms can be found at the following link: https://www.state.nj.us/treasury/purchase/forms/Waiver%20and%20DPA%20Contract%20Checklist.pdf. All forms must be completed and submitted in their entirety with the bidder's proposal. Failure to submit DPA Forms may result in the proposal being rejected.

NOTE: The Vendor must be registered in NJSTART to qualify for an award. NJSTART registration link as follows: https://www.njstart.gov/bso/

B. Section 2 – Price

The Vendor may supply their own quote; however, the total price for all aspects of the bid must appear on the Pricelines accompanying this RFP.

The quote must be submitted in PDF format. No other format will be accepted.

4.0 Negotiation and best and final offer (BAFO) After evaluating the quote, NJDOT may establish a competitive range and enter into negotiations with one (1) Bidder or multiple Bidders within this competitive range. The primary purpose of negotiations is to maximize the State’s ability to obtain the best value based on the mandatory requirements, evaluation criteria, and cost. Multiple rounds of negotiations may be conducted with one (1) Bidder or multiple Bidders. Negotiations will be structured by NJDOT to safeguard information and ensure that all Bidders are treated fairly.

Negotiations will be conducted only in those circumstances where they are deemed by NJDOT to be in the State’s best interests and to maximize the State’s ability to get the best value. Therefore, the Bidder is advised to submit its best price quote in response to this solicitation since NJDOT may, after evaluation, make an award based on the content of the initial submission, without further negotiation and/or Best and Final Offer (BAFO), with any Bidder.

5.0 Award

A. Award of this contract will be based upon the lowest responsible bids.

B. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) reserves the right to reject all bids.

C. NJDOT reserves the right to not award or award this project in whole or in part.

D. Awarded Contractors, along with their proposal amount will be posted on the NJDOT, Equipment Materials & Supplies, Awarded Projects’ webpage.

E. Award of this contract shall not be interpreted to mean approval to proceed until an

authorized purchase order is issued to the contractor.

Effective immediately, NJDOT is required to comply with P.L. 2012, c. 4, which requires all agencies to encourage awarded contractors to notify their employees of organ and tissue donation options. “Organ and Tissue Donation: As defined in section 2 of P.L. 2012, c. 4 (N.J.S.A. 52:32-33), contractors are encouraged to notify their employees, through information and materials or through an organ and tissue awareness program, of organ donation options. The information provided to employees shall be prepared in collaboration with the organ procurement organizations designated pursuant to 42 U.S.C. §1320b-8 to serve in this State.”

AND ANTI-DISCRIMINATION All parties to any contract with the State agree not to discriminate in employment and agree to abide by all anti-discrimination laws including those contained within N.J.S.A. 10:2-1 through N.J.S.A. 10:2-4, N.J.S.A. 10:5-1 et seq. and N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 through 10:5-38, and all rules and regulations issued thereunder are hereby incorporated by reference. The contractor or subcontractor, where applicable, agrees to comply with any regulations promulgated by the Treasurer pursuant to N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq., as amended and supplemented from time to time.