Form 217 - Postloan Engineering-Architectural Serv. Post Loan Engineering Serv. Contract-Approval of Postloan Engineering Serv.Contract (a-g)

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Electrification Administration
BULLETIN 1755E-217

SUBJECT:

TO:

Postloan Engineering Services Contract Telecommunications Systems (RUS Form 217)

All Telecommunications Borrowers
RUS Telecommunications Staff

EFFECTIVE DATE:
EXPIRATION DATE:
rulemaking

March 20, 1997
Date of change of 7 CFR part 1755.217, by

OFFICE OF PRIMARY INTEREST:
Committee

Telecommunications Engineering

FILING INSTRUCTIONS: This bulletin replaces REA Form 217,
Postloan Engineering Services Contract - Telephone Systems, dated
7-81. File with 7 CFR 1755. This bulletin is available to the
RUS staff on RUSNET and http://www.usda.gov/rus/home/home.htm.
PURPOSE: This bulletin provides a user-friendly reformatting of
RUS Form 217, Postloan Engineering Services Contract Telecommunications Systems, codified at 7 CFR §1755.217, as
published on February 18, 1997, at 62 FR 7135. This bulletin
presents the codified RUS Form 217 in a detachable, usable
format.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this
document. However, in case of discrepancies, the regulation at
7 CFR §1755.217 is the authorized source.

_______________________________
Administrator

_____________________________
Date

RUS Bulletin 1755E-217
Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
2.

General
Instructions for Use

Postloan Engineering Services Contract - Telecommunications
Systems
INDEX:
Contract, Postloan Engineering Services, RUS Form 217

ABBREVIATIONS and ACRONYMS
CFR
RUS
1.

Code of Federal Regulations
Rural Utilities Service
General

The Postloan Engineering Services Contract, RUS Form 217,
contained in this bulletin is a detachable, usable reformatting
of the Postloan Engineering Services Contract codified at
7 CFR §1755.217.
This contract provides the terms and conditions of the agreement
to be executed between RUS telecommunications borrowers and
consulting engineering firms hired to design and oversee
construction of telecommunications facilities financed with RUS
financing assistance. Several years have passed since this
contract was last amended and changes in common contract language
have occurred. These amendments allow contracts to be more
consistent with common practice.
2. Instructions for Use
Remove the attached RUS Form 217 and use it in any situation
where an engineering services contract is required for the
construction of telecommunications facilities.

OMB Control #0572-0059
Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 7 hours per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of
information. Send comments regqarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for
reducing this burden to Department of Agriculture, Clearance Officer, OIRM, OMB Control # 0572-0059, AG Box 7630, Washington, DC 20250.
You are not required to respond to this collection of information unless this form displays the currently valid OMB control number.

POSTLOAN ENGINEERING SERVICES CONTRACT
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

RUS Contract Form 217

U.S. Department Of Agriculture
Rural Utilities Service

Any company or organization choosing to generate or otherwise obtain and use electronic
media reproductions of RUS Bulletin 1755E-217 (Form 217) should complete the
following statement:
REPRODUCTION STATEMENT
__________________________________________________ certifies that the attached
electronically reproduced form is a true reproduction of RUS Bulletin 1755E-217 (Form
217), dated March 1997, from which it was derived and understands that in case of
discrepancies the regulation at 7 CFR 1755 section 1755.217 is the authorized source.

RUS Form 217 Rev. 3-97

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Rural Utilities Service

POSTLOAN ENGINEERING SERVICES CONTRACT
TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

AGREEMENT made _____________________, ________, between
_______________________________________________ (hereinafter called the "Owner") and
________________________________________________ (hereinafter called the "Engineer").
In consideration of the mutual undertakings herein contained, the parties hereto agree as
follows:
Section 1. Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement the following definitions shall be
used:
Administrator. The Administrator of RUS or personnel delegated authority to act for the
Administrator.
Borrower's Environmental Report. An environmental study as described in 7 CFR 1794.
For the purposes of this contract, this is the level of environmental review as described in 7 CFR
1794 required for the Project by RUS. In most cases of telecommunications construction, this
will be a Borrower's Environmental Report.
Contractor. A provider of goods or services for the Project, other than the Engineer.
Construction Administration. The coordination of construction activities.
Construction Drawings. The drawings developed through the staking used to guide the
construction of outside plant facilities.
Cut Sheets. The complete and sequential plans for Cutover.
Cutover. The orderly integration of new facilities with existing facilities.
Description of Project. The work and facilities listed by principal subdivisions in Table 1.
Inspect. To monitor and examine the work of the Contractor, compare the work to the
contract, and note the details and quantities of construction on records and progress reports.
Inspector. A competent representative of the Engineer who inspects construction and
reports compliance or noncompliance to the Resident.
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 2

Loan Design. Supplemental information which supports a loan application, as described
in 7 CFR 1737.32.
Marker. A physical indicator at the construction site to guide the Contractor in
construction of facilities.
Project. The telecommunications construction and procurements financed by a particular
RUS loan.
Resident. The competent representative of the Engineer who is delegated full time "on
site" Construction Administration responsibilities of the Engineer.
Staking. The determination of the approximate location of the facilities to be placed and
creation of schematic drawings which show the facilities located with respect to the physical
terrain.
Work Sector. A localized portion of the Project.
Section 2. General.
2.01 Financing of the Project. All or part of the financing of the Project, including costs
of materials, construction, installation, and engineering, shall be by a loan administrated by RUS.
If the Project is financed in part by the Rural Telephone Bank, an agency of the United
States of America, the references in this Agreement to "The United States of America" and the
"Government" shall mean the "Rural Telephone Bank" as well, and the references to the
"Administrator" shall mean the "Governor" of the Rural Telephone Bank as well. If the Project is
financed wholly by the Rural Telephone Bank, the references to "The United States of America"
and the "Government" shall mean the "Rural Telephone Bank" and the references to the
"Administrator" shall mean the "Governor" of the Rural Telephone Bank.
2.02. Compliance with Regulations. The objective of this Agreement is for the Owner
to obtain engineering assistance in completing a Project, while complying with RUS postloan
construction regulations. The Engineer shall, therefore, perform all engineering services
requested by the Owner hereunder, and render engineering advice and assistance, so as to enable
the Owner to comply with 7 CFR Part 1753 and other applicable RUS regulations.
2.03 General Obligation. The Engineer shall, consistent with sound professional
practices, diligently and competently render the engineering services required in this Agreement.
These engineering services shall be reasonably necessary or advisable for the expeditious,
economical, and sound design and construction of the Project listed in Table 1 by means of the
services described in this agreement and its attachments. The Engineer shall also render other
preparatory work as is necessary to place such portion of the Project in service, except where
such duties are excluded from the terms of this Agreement. The enumeration of specific duties
Page 3

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

and obligations to be performed by the Engineer and included herewith, shall not be construed to
limit the foregoing general undertaking of the Engineer, with reference to such portion of the
Project.
2.04 Description of Project. The Project shall consist of the subdivisions of the work
and facilities listed by exchanges in Table 1 attached hereto.
Section 3. Miscellaneous.
3.01 Insurance. The Engineer shall take out and maintain throughout the contract period
the minimum insurance as required in Subpart C of 7 CFR part 1788 in effect at the date of this
Agreement.
3.02 Project Schedule. The Engineer shall prepare in collaboration with the Owner, a
work and progress report schedule to facilitate coordination of activities for Cutover of the
Owner's Project. The Engineer shall report construction progress to the Owner monthly during
all times when one or more contracts are open.
3.03 Plans and Specifications. Complete and detailed plans and specifications,
drawings, maps and other engineering documents as required for the construction of the Project
(all of the foregoing being herein sometimes collectively called the "plans and specifications"),
shall be prepared by the Engineer, pursuant to the various attachments to this Agreement, and
made a part hereof.
3.04 Scope of Services. The Engineer shall not be obligated to perform any services for
the Project or any part thereof except to the extent that the Project as defined in Table 1, (or the
parts thereof and the services related thereto) are delineated in (1) the attachments to this
Agreement and (2) the plans and specifications approved by the Owner and the Administrator, as
they may be amended from time to time, prepared pursuant to this Agreement.
3.05 Standards. All maps, drawings, plans, specifications, estimates, studies and other
engineering documents required to be prepared or submitted by the Engineer under this
Agreement shall conform to the applicable standard specifications and other forms prescribed by
the Administrator and in effect at the date of this Agreement.
3.06 Termination by Owner. The Owner may at any time terminate this Agreement by
giving notice to the Engineer, in writing, to that effect not less than thirty (30) days prior to the
effective date of termination specified in this notice. Such notice shall be deemed given if
delivered or mailed to the last known address of the Engineer. From and after the effective date
specified in such notice this Agreement shall be terminated.
When termination is initiated by the owner, compensation for services hereunder shall be
computed as far as possible in accordance with the provisions of the applicable attachment to this
Agreement. To the extent that the provisions of any such attachment cannot be applied because
construction is incomplete at the effective date of such termination, then the Engineer shall be
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 4

paid for engineering services in respect to such incomplete construction, a sum which shall bear
the same ratio to the compensation which would have been payable under the provisions of any
such attachment to this Agreement, if such construction had been completed. If requested by the
Owner, the Engineer shall submit to the Owner in duplicate a certified statement of the Engineer's
actual expenses in respect of such incomplete construction. All compensation invoiced by the
Engineer and payable under this paragraph shall be due and payable thirty (30) days after the
approval by the Owner and the Administrator of the amount due. In any case, compensation shall
be due 30 days after the date Project documentation is delivered to the Owner under paragraph
3.08 of this Agreement.
3.07 Termination by the Engineer. The Engineer shall have the right, by giving to the
Owner not less than thirty (30) days notice in writing, to terminate this Agreement if the Engineer
shall have been prevented by conditions beyond the control and without the fault of the Engineer:
(i) from commencing performance of this Agreement for a period of twelve (12) months from the
date of this Agreement; or (ii) from proceeding with the completion of full performance of any
remaining services, required of the Engineer pursuant to this Agreement, for a period of six (6)
months from the date of last performance by the Engineer of other services required pursuant to
this Agreement. From and after the effective date specified in such notice this Agreement shall be
terminated, except that the Engineer shall be entitled to receive compensation for services
performed hereunder, computed and payable in the same manner as set forth in paragraph 3.06.
3.08 Project Documents. Upon final payment by the Owner to the Engineer in
accordance with the Statement of Engineering Fees, RUS Form 506, the following documents in
final form become the property of the Owner and may be used by the Owner for Project operation
and future development:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

"Final record" system maps, in master form (electronic or original hard copy)
Cable schematics
Construction sheets
Cable assignment sheets
All contract documents including attached plans and specifications and final
inventories.

All other documents and engineering records, including preliminary forms of the above
documents, remain the property of the Engineer.
Upon termination of this Agreement the Engineer shall deliver to the Owner at a mutually
agreeable place within 5 working days after the date of termination all Project documents
(electronic or original hard copy) including records, map tracings, plans and specifications, test
data, and field notes.
If requested by the Owner upon completion of the Project, the Engineer shall deliver to
the Owner those documents which are the Owner's property, at a mutually agreed upon place and
time.

Page 5

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

3.09 Employee's Qualifications. The obligations and duties to be performed by the
Engineer under this Agreement shall be performed by persons qualified to perform such duties
efficiently. The Engineer, if the Owner shall so direct, shall promptly replace any Resident or
other person employed by the Engineer in connection with the Project.
For information of the Owner and the Administrator, the Engineer shall file with the
Owner statements signed by the Engineer of the qualifications, including resumes of specific
experience, and the duties to be assigned to each Resident, Inspector and such other personnel
assigned to the Project as may be requested by the Owner and Administrator.
The term Resident and Inspector, as used in this Agreement, shall mean a person properly
trained and experienced to perform the services required under the terms of this Agreement, and
does not mean that the person performing those duties must be a licensed or a registered
professional engineer.
3.10 License. The Engineer shall comply with all applicable statutes pertaining to
engineering and warrants that ________________________________ (Fill in name of individual)
who shall be in responsible charge of the Project possesses license number _______________
issued by the State of _____________________ on the _____ day of ____________ _______.
3.11 Payments of Engineer's Employees. For each invoice the Engineer, if requested
by the Owner, shall furnish to the Owner as a prior condition to payment, a certificate to the
effect that all salaries or wages earned by the employees of the Engineer in connection with the
Project have been fully paid by the Engineer up to and including a date not more than thirty (30)
days prior to the date of such invoice. Before final payment under this Agreement the Engineer
shall furnish to the Owner a certificate that all of the employees of the Engineer have been paid
for services rendered by them in connection with the Project, and that all other obligations which
might become a lien upon the Project have been paid.
3.12 Engineer's Records. The Owner and the Administrator shall have the right to
Inspect and audit all payrolls, records, and accounts of the Engineer relevant to the work
performed for the purposes of this Agreement and the Engineer agrees to provide all reasonable
facilities necessary for such inspection and audit.
3.13 Compensation. For the purpose of this Agreement, compensation for each type of
work covered by the attachments and thereby made a part of this Agreement shall be as outlined
in said attachments except where compensation is listed as being a "time and expense" basis, in
which case the rates in Table 2 attached hereto (or as subsequently modified by approved
amendments to this Agreement) shall apply.
3.14 Taxes. Any taxes or levies (excluding Federal, State, and local income taxes) which
may be assessed against the Engineer for services performed or payments for services performed
by the Engineer per this Agreement shall be in addition to the compensation set forth in the
attachments to this Agreement. Such taxes or levies when paid by the Engineer shall be stated
separately on all invoices and paid by the Owner.
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 6

3.15 Interest. Interest at the rate of _____ percent (_____%) per annum shall be paid by
the Owner to the Engineer on any unpaid balance due the Engineer, commencing thirty (30) days
after the receipt of the Engineer's invoice, provided that the delay in payment beyond such time
shall not have been caused by any conditions within the control of the Engineer. Such interest
shall be paid ten (10) days after the amount of interest has been determined by the Engineer and
the Owner. The start date of interest accrual is irrespective of the date of the Owner's approval of
the invoice, but the interest computation shall be based on the invoice approved by the Owner.
3.16 Non-Assignment. The obligations of the Engineer under this Agreement shall not
be assigned without the approval in writing of the Owner and the Administrator.
3.17 Attachments. The following listed attachments, when checked in appropriate
boxes, are attached to and made a part of this contract, by this reference:
RUS Form 217a-Project Design, Assistance and Coordination;
RUS Form 217b-Central Office Equipment Engineering Services;
RUS Form 217c-Transmission Facilities Engineering Services;
RUS Form 217d-Building Engineering Services;
RUS Form 217e-Outside Plant Staking Services;
RUS Form 217f-Outside Plant Contract Document Phase Engineering Services; and
RUS Form 217g-Outside Plant Construction Phase Engineering Services.
3.18 Service Addition. When a service listed in paragraph 3.17 above is added to this
contract after execution, an amendment to the Contract is required.
3.19 Engineering Fee. The Engineer shall provide an initial estimate, monthly updates
and a final statement of engineering fees using RUS Form 506, Statement of Engineering Fees, or
a facsimile thereof. Where a fixed amount or percentage is used in the attachments checked in
section 3.17 above, the same fixed amount or percentage shall be used in the statement of
engineering fees.
3.20 Contract Amendment. When the total engineering fee exceeds the initial contract
estimate by 20% or more, an amendment to the contract shall be required as set forth in
7 CFR Part 1753.
3.21 Compensation for Corrections. No compensation shall be due or payable to the
Engineer, pursuant to this Agreement, for any engineering services performed by the Engineer in
connection with effecting of corrections to the design or construction of the Project, when such
corrections are required as a direct result of failure by the Engineer to properly fulfill one or more
of the Engineer's obligations as set forth in this Agreement.
3.22 Force Majeure. The Engineer shall not be held responsible for Project delays which
are a result of Owner delays, Contractor delays or acts of God. The Engineer shall not be entitled
to additional compensation unless the delays are the result of the Owner's negligence.
Page 7

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

3.23 Contract Beneficiaries. Nothing under this Agreement shall be construed to give
any rights or benefits in this Agreement to anyone other than the Owner, the Engineer and the
Administrator, and all duties and responsibilities undertaken pursuant to this Agreement shall be
for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Owner, Engineer and Administrator and not for the
benefit of any other party. This paragraph does not relieve the Engineer of any obligation or
responsibilities conferred upon licensed engineers under State law.
3.24 Addenda. Any addenda required for this contract should be placed before Table 1.
3.25 Contract Completion and Closeout. Upon completion of all services covered by
this Contract, the Engineer shall execute the Statement of Engineering Fees, RUS Form 506, and
submit copies to the Owner as prescribed under 7 CFR 1753 Subpart B.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly
executed.

______________________________
Owner

By ______________________________
President

ATTEST:
___________________________________________
Secretary
______________________________
Engineer

By ______________________________
President, Partner
(Strike out inapplicable designation
If partnership, all partners shall sign)
ATTEST:
___________________________________________
Secretary
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 8

TABLE 1

Description of Project
(Attach supplemental sheets, as required)

______________________________

EXCHANGE

MILEAGE OF OUTSIDE PLANT

_____________________

EQUIPMENT BUILDING1

_____________________

CENTRAL OFFICE EQUIPMENT1

_____________________

ASSOCIATED FACILITIES2

_____________________

OTHER3

EXCLUDED SERVICES2

1
2
3

_____________________

Insert "new" or "additional" or "none" as appropriate.
Insert "none" or list as appropriate.
Describe

Page 9

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

TABLE 2
Schedule of Time, Expense and Equipment Usage Rates, Dated _____
1. Time Rates. Includes all costs associated with the employees except for those itemized in
Paragraph 2, below.
Job Classification and Employee Name, if Known
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________

Hourly Billing Rate
________________________
________________________
________________________
________________________

(Attached supplemental sheet, as required)
2. Expense Rates. These shall include subsistence expense, if any, paid to (or on behalf of)
employees; plus reasonable employee transportation costs; plus the cost of printing (including
mailing and transportation expenses), telephone, facsimile, and other materials and equipment
related to the Project.
3. Test Equipment and Computer Usage Rates.
Description of Equipment
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________

Hourly Billing Rate
________________________
________________________
________________________
________________________

(Attached supplemental sheet, as required)
4. Review of Rates. To the extent that the completion date of the Agreement, to which this
Table 2 applies, shall extend 12 months beyond the date when this Agreement is originally
executed; and on each subsequent anniversary of such Agreement this schedule of rates shall be
verified or modified in writing by the Parties, to new rates mutually agreeable to the Parties to
such Agreement, until Completion or Termination of such Agreement as provided therein.
5. Information for Owner. With each invoice for payment, the Engineer shall furnish the Owner
information of the type outlined in a jointly approved format similar to that shown in Exhibit A.
6. Compensation Payment. Unless otherwise specified in this Agreement, compensation payable
pursuant to Table 2 shall be due and payable ten (10) days after approval of the Owner of the
service performed and the invoice of the Engineer, including the detail breakdown of the cost by
the portion of the Project and section of the contract for which the service was performed. The
Engineer shall be notified, within ten (10) days of receipt of invoices, of any discrepancies which
require correction or addition as precedent for payment of such invoices by the Owner.
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 10

EXHIBIT A
Suggested Information and Format for Time & Expense Billing
Invoice period ending: _______________
Certificate of Time, Expense & Equipment Usage Charges
Project Designation: __________________

Postloan Engineering Contract,
RUS Form 217 Dated: _______________

Name: ____________________________
Classification: ______________________
Date
*

Service Performed

Hourly Rate
Number of Hours
Extended Costs
Miles Driven
Cost Per Mile
Extended Costs
Other Transportation
Air Travel
Other (Explain)
Extended Costs
Lodging
Subsistence

*

Service performed to be included by description of activity and by reference to paragraph number in RUS Form 217 Attachment.
Example: Pre-Bid Conference: 217c 3 refers to conducting Pre-Bid Conference.

Page 11

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

EXHIBIT A - (Cont’d.)
Date
Computer
Rate
Hours
Extended Costs
EQUIPMENT RENTAL
COE Test Equipment
Hourly Rate
Number of Hours
Extended Costs
O. P. Test Equipment
Hourly Rate
Number of Hours
Extended Costs
Transmission Testing
Hourly Rate
Number of Hours
Extended Costs
OTHER EXPENSES
Telephone Charges
Facsimile Charges
Printing
Construction Sheets
Maps

SUBMITTED (by Engineer): ___________________________
_____________________________
Title
RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

___________
Date

APPROVED (by Owner):___________________________
_____________________________
Title

___________
Date
Page 12

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any
other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Department of Agriculture, Clearance Officer, OIRM (OMB #0572-0059),
AG Box 7630, Washington, DC 20250; Washington, DC 20503. OMB DOCKET NO. 0572-0056, Expires 09/30/97.
No further benefits may be paid out under this program unless this report is completed and filed as required by existing law and regulations (7 U.S.C. et seq.)
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Rural Utilities Service
PROJECT DESIGNATION

STATEMENT OF ENGINEERING FEES
TELECOMMUNICATIONS

CONTRACT NO.

DATE

INSTRUCTIONS - See 7 CFR Part 1753.17(f)

CONTRACT SECTION

ESTIMATED

INVOICED
AND
APPROVED

FINAL

Form 217a - Project Design, Assistance and Coordination
A. Section 1. Project Design..........................................................................................................
B. Section 2. Assistance to Owner................................................................................................
C. Section 3. Coordination............................................................................................................
D. Section 4. Plant Records...........................................................................................................
Form 217a Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217b - Central Office Equipment Engineering Services
A. Section 1. Review of Requirements..........................................................................................
B. Section 2C. Rebidding..............................................................................................................
C. Additions, Modifications, Relocations, or Removals................................................................
D. Sections 2F, 2H and 2I and Section 3.......................................................................................
E. For each new Central Office Equipment contract or Force Account Proposal an amount equal to:
____________ percent (_____%) of first $100,000 ...................................................................................................
Plus _______ percent (_____%) of next $300,000 ..................................................................................................
Plus _______ percent (_____%) of the balance ........................................................................................................
F. For each Installation Only contract: _______ percent (_____%)................................................................
Form 217b Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217c - Transmission Facilities Engineering Services
A. Section 1. Review of Requirements..........................................................................................
B. Additions, Modifications, Relocations, or Removals................................................................
C. Section 3A. Rebidding..............................................................................................................
D. Sections 3E, 3F and 3G.............................................................................................................
E. Section 4. Tests.........................................................................................................................
F. For each new Transmission Facilities contract or Force Account Proposal an amount equal to:
____________ percent (_____%) of first $50,000 ......................................................................................................
Plus _______ percent (_____%) of next $150,000 ..................................................................................................
Plus _______ percent (_____%) of the balance ........................................................................................................
G. For each Installation Only contract: _______ percent (_____%)................................................................
Form 217c Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217d - Building Engineering Services
A. Section 1. Review of Requirements..........................................................................................
B. Section 3B. Rebidding..............................................................................................................
C. Additions, Modifications, Relocations, or Removals................................................................
D. Sections 3F and 3G....................................................................................................................
E. For each new Building contract or Force Account Proposal an amount equal to:
____________ percent (_____%) of first $50,000 ......................................................................................................
Plus _______ percent (_____%) of the balance ........................................................................................................
Form 217d Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217e - Outside Plant Staking Services
A. Section 1. Review of Requirements..........................................................................................
B. Section 2C. Changes.................................................................................................................
C. Section 2I. Joint Use or Joint Occupancy.................................................................................
D. Replacement of Markers............................................................................................................
E. For Staking:
1. ________ miles at $ ________ per mile of existing buried plant to be modified......
2. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of new buried plant.....................................
3. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of underground cable installed in ducts.....
4. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of new aerial plant......................................
5. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of existing aerial plant to be modified........
6. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of new joint use lines..................................
7. Plus ____ miles at $ ________ per mile of existing lines to be removed where no
construction or modification work is to be performed.................................................
8. Plus ____ service entrances at $________ per service entrance for each new or
modified service entrance.............................................................................................
9. Plus ____ subscribers at $________ per subscriber shown on construction sheets...
F. Section 2J. Time and Expense Staking....................................................................................
Form 217e Subtotal.........................................................................................................................

RUS Form 506 (Rev 12-96)

Page 13

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

“You are not required to respond to this collection of information unless this form displays the currently valid OMB control number.”
CONTRACT SECTION

ESTIMATED

FINAL

INVOICED
AND
APPROVED

Form 217f - Outside Plant Contract Document Phase Engineering Services
A. Sum of $ __________ or _________ Sections at $ __________ per section........................
Plus ______ Amendments at $ __________ per amendment.................................................
Plus ______ miles at $ __________ per mile of Project Line.................................................
B. The Sum of $ __________ for each approved Force Account Proposal................................
C. Section 2. Map Tracings and Other Data.................................................................................
D. Section 3. Schematics, Assignments, and Cut Sheets...............................................................
E. Section 4B6. Underground Conduit.........................................................................................
F. Section 4C3. Pre-Bid Conference and Rebidding....................................................................
G. Section 4D3. Changes to Force Account Proposals.................................................................
Form 217f Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217g - Outside Plant Construction Phase Engineering Services
A. Section 1. Construction Phase
1. Section 1B. Residents and Inspectors..................................................................................
2. Section 1C. Pre-Construction Conference...........................................................................
3. Section 1F. Joint Use or Joint Occupancy...........................................................................
4. Section 1G. Tests.................................................................................................................
5. Section 1H. Connecting Companies....................................................................................
6. Section 1I. Reporting..........................................................................................................
7. Section 1J. Final Inspection.................................................................................................
B. Section 2. Final Documents: the sum of $ __________ or _________ Sections
at $ __________ per section.....................................................................................................
Plus ______ miles at $ __________ per mile of line included................................................
Plus ______ service entrances at $ __________ for each service entrance
installed, replaced or modified ..................................................................................................
C. Section 3. Plant Records...........................................................................................................
D. Section 4. Inventory and Appraisal..........................................................................................
Form 217g Subtotal.........................................................................................................................
Form 217 Contract SUBTOTAL......................
TAXES.......................
GRAND TOTAL......................

CERTIFICATE OF ENGINEER
(Complete for Final Statement Only)

I, _____________________________________________, certify that (1) I am the ___________________________ of
(Title)
_____________________________________, the Engineer in a contract entered into between the Engineer and the Owner,
(Name of Engineer)
_____________________________________, for engineering services in a rural telecommunications Project, which Project
(Name of Owner)

bears the Rural Utilities Service Project designation _____________________________________________________; and that (2)
this is a true and correct statement of the fees due under the terms of the engineering service contract; and that (3) all persons
employed by the Engineer in connection with the engineering on the Project have been paid in full.
________________________________________________________
(Signature)

THIS STATEMENT AND CERTIFICATE IS HEREBY APPROVED
_________________________________________________________
(Owner)

__________________

By: _______________________________________________

(Date)
RECOMMENDED BY:

__________________
(Date)

_____________________________________________
(RUS General Field Representative)

APPROVED BY:

__________________
(Date)

_____________________________________________
(Chief, _________________ Area, Engineering Branch)

RUS Form 506 (Rev 12-96)

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

Page 14

(Page left intentionally blank)

Page 15

RUS Form 217
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT-RUS FORM 217a
Project Design, Assistance and Coordination
Section 1. Project Design.
A. Design. The Project shall be constructed in accordance with the current Loan Design,
Project Schedule (if developed), and Borrower's Environmental Report. Such Loan Design shall
be based on the latest applicable criteria as specified by the Owner and the Administrator.
When necessary for the preparation of plans and specifications, the Engineer shall, upon
request of the Owner and with the approval of the Administrator: (1) revise as necessary the Loan
Design and Borrower's Environmental Report; (2) prepare or revise as necessary the outside plant
design; (3) make measurements and analyses of existing traffic; (4) make tests of existing cable,
including the determination of field locations for treatment of existing facilities associated with
installation of carrier equipment; and (5) submit the resulting Loan Design and Borrower's
Environmental Report to the Owner in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator.
B. Change in Design. If, after the approval of the Loan Design and Borrower's
Environmental Report, or plans and specifications by the Owner and the Administrator, it shall be
determined by the Owner that any change is required, the Engineer shall prepare such revisions in
the Loan Design, Borrower's Environmental Report, and plans and specifications, or any part
thereof, as is necessitated by the changes in requirements for service, design criteria, or other
reasons arising during the performance of services for the Project.
Section 2. Assistance To Owner. The Engineer, to the extent requested by the Owner,
shall assist in the Owner’s obtaining agreements and authorizations required for the Project,
including without limitation the furnishing of engineering information and drawings and
participating in the Owner’s obtaining:
A. Toll, EAS, operator assistance, special services and other connecting company
commitments;
B. Joint use or joint occupancy agreements with other utilities;
C. Permits for crossing public roads, railroads, navigable streams or bodies of water;
D. Right-of-way authorizations, easements, and other permits necessary for encroachment
on public or private lands;
E. Authorizations from regulatory bodies and franchises from public bodies; and
F. Environmental studies and clearances.

RUS Form 217a
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

Section 3. Coordination. The Engineer, to the extent requested by the Owner, shall
coordinate the work of others engaged in the Project, including work performed or supervised by
the Owner, architect, and other engineers, to facilitate expeditious and economical completion of
the Project. Services pursuant to this section shall be in addition to, and shall not include, services
required by other provisions of this Agreement.
Section 4. Plant Records. The Owner shall furnish to the Engineer current and accurate
plant records. If such records are not available the Owner may direct the Engineer to update
existing records to current status. This may include conversion of existing records to a new
medium.
Section 5. Compensation. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for services performed
pursuant to this RUS Form 217a the "time and expense" compensation as defined in Table 2 of
this Agreement.
Section 6. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217a - Project Design, Assistance and
Coordination).

Page 2

RUS Form 217a
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT-FORM 217b
Central Office Equipment Engineering Services
Section 1. Review of Requirements. Prior to the preparation of plans and
specifications, the Engineer shall review with the Owner the current and future requirements of
the Project, in respect to central office equipment additions, replacements, modifications or
complete new offices. The Engineer, to the extent requested by the Owner, shall prepare such
studies as the Owner may require to support the selection by the Owner of the final design plan.
Section 2. Plans and Specifications and Contracts.
A. Preparation of Plans and Specifications. Plans and specifications shall be prepared by
the Engineer in accordance with standard RUS specifications and requirements for central office
equipment, and shall be submitted to the Owner in a format suitable for approval by the
Administrator.
B. Bidders Qualifications. The Engineer shall review with the Owner all Bidder
qualifications and shall prepare and furnish to the qualified bidders the plans and specifications
upon the conditions provided in the applicable standard RUS contract forms and in accordance
with 7 CFR Part 1753.
C. Bid or Proposal. The Engineer shall be available to each prospective bidder for
consultation with respect to the details of the plans and specifications and all other matters
pertaining to the preparation of the proposals for the supply of equipment or services therefore.
All changes to or clarifications of the plans and specifications provided to one prospective bidder
shall be provided by the Engineer in writing to all other prospective bidders and to the Owner.
The Engineer shall attend and supervise all technical prebid review meetings and openings
of quotes for the furnishing of equipment or services therefor. Where additions to existing
equipment are proposed, a quote may be solicited from the original supplier or separate materials
and installation contracts may be requested from several suppliers. The Engineer shall carefully
check all quotes received and shall render to the Owner assistance in connection with the Owner's
consideration of the quotes received so that contracts may be prudently and properly awarded.
The Engineer shall submit in writing to the Owner recommendations of first and second
choice of bidders stating the reasons therefor, or, if the analysis of quotes indicates that no quote
is satisfactory because of prices or other conditions, the Engineer shall recommend to the Owner
that all quotes be rejected, giving reasons therefor. Unless otherwise directed by the Owner, the
Engineer shall proceed in respect to rebidding in the manner provided for herein for the initial
bidding.
D. Award of Contract. The Engineer shall prepare and furnish to the Owner three (3)
copies of a detailed tabulation of all the bids or quotes and a tabulation showing the bidders'
names and totals. The Owner shall submit to the Administrator the bidding information required
RUS Form 217b
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

for approval of the award of the contract by the Administrator. Upon receipt of notice from the
Owner of the Administrator's approval of the award of the contract, the Engineer shall prepare
contracts in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.
E. Contract Amendments. If, after the equipment contract and the installation contract
have been approved by the Owner and the Administrator, it shall be determined by the Owner that
any change or changes in the plans and specifications are advisable, the Engineer shall prepare and
submit a contract amendment in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.
F. Customer Information and Engineering Meeting. If necessary, the Engineer shall
arrange, at a mutually agreeable time, a Customer Information and Engineering Meeting with the
Owner, Contractor and Engineer to review the Contractor's proposal, equipment lists, software,
data requirements, translation requirements, etc. prior to beginning of manufacture.
G. Compliance. The Engineer shall review all equipment lists, manufacturer's drawings,
and other data submitted by the Contractor, to determine apparent compliance of such lists,
drawings and other data with the approved contract. This shall not relieve the Contractor of its
obligation to meet the performance specifications of the contract.
H. Pre-Installation Meeting. The Engineer shall arrange at a mutually agreeable time, a
pre-installation meeting between the Contractor, Owner and Engineer, after the Contractor’s
installer has arrived at the contract site, to clarify areas of responsibility, check scheduling and to
determine the Contractor's proposed compliance with the plans and specifications.
I. Progress Reports. A competent representative of the Engineer shall make periodic
visits to the equipment installation site to Inspect the progress and quality of the executed work
and to determine, in general, if the work is proceeding in accordance with the contract. The
Engineer shall report at least monthly to the Owner in writing stating the results of Inspections.
When the Engineer observes any failure of the executed work or work in progress to comply with
the requirements of the contract, this shall be reported to the Owner immediately. These reports
shall include suitable recommendations. If the engineer observes an unsafe practice, his only
responsibility shall be to consult immediately with the Contractor and if his concerns are not
satisfied, to notify the Owner immediately.
Section 3. Tests. The Engineer shall conduct, or cause to be conducted by the installer,
such tests of all such equipment as required by the Owner and the Administrator to determine that
the equipment meets the performance requirements of the plans and specifications. The Engineer
shall make recommendations for the correction of performance or operational difficulties. All
cases of performance or operational difficulties due to faulty installation or defective equipment
shall be reported to the Contractor, for correction. When the corrections have been made, the
Engineer shall retest the equipment. The Engineer shall furnish test equipment, when required,
for all required tests or measurements performed by the Engineer.

Page 2

RUS Form 217b
Rev. 3-97

The Owner and a representative of the Administrator will normally conduct a final
inspection of completed construction. When requested by the Owner, a qualified representative
of the Engineer shall be present.
Section 4. Final Documents. The Engineer shall prepare or cause to be prepared, and
shall submit to the Owner for approval, in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator,
complete and detailed final documents as specified in 7 CFR 1753 and a statement showing the
total amounts due the Contractor, pursuant to the terms of the contract, including any
amendments thereto. The final documents shall be submitted for the Owner's approval within
forty (40) calendar days after the completion of construction based on the date on the certificate
of completion covered by each central office equipment contract and each installation contract.
Section 5. Compensation.
A. Time and Expense. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and expense"
compensation as outlined in the current Table 2 of this Agreement for: (1) all services performed
pursuant to section 1; (2) "rebidding" pursuant to paragraph C of section 2; (3) all services in
connection with additions to, replacement of components in, modifications of, or removal of,
existing central office equipment; (4) all services pursuant to paragraphs F, H, and I of section 2;
and (5) all services pursuant to section 3.
B. Percent of Cost. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for all other services performed
pursuant to this RUS Form 217b, including final documents, for each central office equipment
contract an amount equal to: _____ percent (_____ %) of the first one hundred thousand dollars
($100,000); plus _____ percent (_____ %) of the next three hundred thousand dollars
($300,000); plus _____ percent (_____ %) of the balance of the installed cost of such equipment
for each complete new central office equipment contract, and for each installation contract an
amount equal to _____% of such installation contract. Ninety percent (90%) of such sums shall
be due and payable ten (10) days after approval by the Administrator of each contract (or force
account proposal) and the balance of the compensation shall be due and payable ten (10) days
after approval by the Owner and the Administrator of a certificate of completion of installation for
each such equipment.
"Installed cost" shall mean the total cost of labor and materials of the central office
equipment as shown on the final inventory documents prepared by the Engineer and approved by
the Owner and the Administrator. For a materials only contract, "installed cost" shall mean the
amount for materials shown on the final inventory documents.
Section 6. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217b - Central Office Equipment
Engineering Services).

RUS Form 217b
Rev. 3-97

Page 3

(Page left intentionally blank)

Page 4

RUS Form 217b
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT--RUS FORM 217c
Transmission Facilities Engineering Services
Section 1. Review of Requirements. Prior to the preparation of plans and specifications
for transmission facilities the Engineer shall review with the Owner the up-to-date requirements of
the Project, as related to transmission facilities.
Section 2. Plans and Specifications. The Engineer shall prepare, and submit to the
Owner in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator, the plans and specifications for the
purchase and installation of such transmission facilities in sufficient time to allow normal
scheduled delivery and installation of such to coordinate with the schedule of completion of the
Project.
Section 3. Contracts.
A. Bid or Proposal. The Engineer shall be available to each prospective bidder for
consultation with respect to the details of the plans and specifications and all other matters
pertaining to the preparation of the proposals for the supply of equipment or services therefor.
All changes to or clarifications of the plans and specifications provided to one prospective bidder
shall be provided by the engineer in writing to all other prospective bidders and to the Owner.
The Engineer shall attend and supervise all technical prebid review meetings and openings
of quotes for the furnishing of equipment or services therefor. Where additions to existing
equipment are proposed, a quote may be solicited from the original supplier or separate materials
and installation contracts may be requested from several suppliers. The Engineer shall carefully
check all quotes received and shall render to the Owner assistance in connection with the Owner's
consideration of the quotes received so that contracts may be prudently and properly awarded.
The Engineer shall submit in writing to the Owner recommendations of first and second
choice of bidders stating the reasons therefor, or, if the analysis of quotes indicates that no quote
is satisfactory because of prices or other conditions, the Engineer shall recommend to the Owner
that all quotes be rejected, giving the reasons therefor. Unless otherwise directed by the Owner,
the Engineer shall proceed in respect to rebidding in the manner provided for herein for the initial
bidding.
B. Award of Contract. Upon receipt of notice from the Owner of the Administrator's
approval of the award of any contract, or bid proposal, the Engineer shall prepare and submit
contracts in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.
C. Contract Amendments. If, after any such contract has been approved by the Owner
and the Administrator, it shall be determined by the Owner that any change or changes in the
plans and specifications are advisable, the Engineer shall prepare and submit a contract
amendment in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.

RUS Form 217c
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

D. Compliance. The Engineer shall review all equipment lists and manufacturer's
drawings, and other data submitted by the Contractor, to determine apparent compliance of such
lists, drawings and other data with the approved contract. This shall not relieve the Contractor of
its obligation to meet the performance specifications of the contract.
E. Pre-Installation Meeting. The Engineer shall arrange, when requested by the Owner,
at a mutually agreeable time, a pre-installation meeting between the Contractor, Owner and
Engineer to clarify areas of responsibility, check delivery and completion scheduling and to assure
that the Contractor comply with the plans and specifications.
F. Customer Information and Engineering Meeting. The Engineer shall arrange, if
necessary, at a mutually agreeable time a customer information and engineering meeting with
Owner, Contractor and Engineer to review the Contractor's proposal, equipment lists, software,
data requirements, translation requirements, etc. prior to beginning of manufacture.
G. Progress Reports. A competent representative of the Engineer shall make periodic
visits to the equipment installation site to Inspect the progress and quality of the executed work
and to determine, in general, if the work is proceeding in accordance with the contract. The
Engineer shall report at least monthly to the Owner in writing stating the results of Inspections.
When the Engineer observes any failure of the executed work or work in progress to comply with
the requirements of the contract, this shall be reported to the Owner immediately. These reports
shall include suitable recommendations. If the engineer observes an unsafe practice, his only
responsibility shall be to consult immediately with the Contractor and if his concerns are not
satisfied, to notify the Owner immediately.
Section 4. Tests. The Engineer shall conduct, or cause to be conducted, such tests as
required by the Owner and the Administrator to determine that the equipment meets the
performance requirements of the plans and specifications. The Engineer shall make
recommendations for the correction of performance or operational difficulties. All cases of
performance or operational difficulties due to faulty installation or defective equipment shall be
reported to the Contractor for correction. When the corrections have been made, the Engineer
shall retest the equipment. The Engineer shall furnish test equipment, when required, for all
required tests or measurements performed by the Engineer.
The Owner and a representative of the Administrator will normally conduct a final
inspection of completed construction. When requested by the Owner, a qualified representative
of the Engineer shall be present.
Section 5. Final Documents. The Engineer shall prepare or cause to be prepared, and
shall submit to the Owner for approval, in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator,
complete and detailed final documents as specified in 7 CFR 1753 and a statement showing the
total amounts due the Contractor, pursuant to the terms of the contract, including any
amendments thereto. The final documents shall be submitted for the Owner's approval within
forty (40) calendar days after the completion of construction based on the date on the certificate
of completion covered by each transmission facilities contract and each installation contract.
Page 2

RUS Form 217c
Rev. 3-97

Section 6. Compensation.
A. Time and Expense. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and expense"
compensation as defined in the current Table 2 of this Agreement for: (1) all services performed
pursuant to section 1; (2) all services in connection with additions to, replacement or removal of
components in, modifications of, relocation of existing systems of transmission facilities; (3)
"rebidding" pursuant to paragraph A of section 3; (4) all services pursuant to paragraphs E, F, and
G of section 3; and (5) all services pursuant to section 4.
B. Percent of Cost. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for all other services pursuant to
this RUS Form 217c, including final documents, for each contract or force account proposal for
new transmission facilities, an amount equal to: _____ percent (_____%) of the first fifty
thousand dollars ($50,000.00); plus _____ percent (_____ %) of the next one hundred fifty
thousand dollars ($150,000.00); plus _____ percent (_____%) of the balance of the installed cost
of each such document and for each installation contract an amount equal to _____% of such
document. Ninety percent (90%) of such sums shall be due and payable ten (10) days after
approval by the Owner of the document for the purchase or installation of such equipment. The
balance of the compensation shall be due and payable ten (10) days after approval by the Owner
and the Administrator of a certificate of completion of installation for such equipment.
"Installed cost" shall mean the total cost of labor and materials of the transmission
facilities as shown on the final documents prepared by the Engineer and approved by the Owner
and the Administrator. For a material's only contract, "installed cost" shall mean the amount for
materials shown on the final inventory documents.
Section 7. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217c - Transmission Facilities
Engineering Services).

RUS Form 217c
Rev. 3-97

Page 3

(Page left intentionally blank)

Page 4

RUS Form 217c
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT--RUS FORM 217d
Building Engineering Services
Section 1. Review of Requirements. Prior to the preparation of plans and
specifications, the Engineer shall review with the Owner the current and future requirements for
buildings to be constructed as a part of the Project.
Section 2. Plans and Specifications. The plans and specifications for the construction
of buildings shall be prepared in sufficient time to allow normal completion of construction of the
buildings at least thirty (30) days prior to delivery of central office equipment as specified in the
central office equipment contract. The plans and specifications shall, unless otherwise directed by
the Owner, be prepared in accordance with standard RUS specifications and construction
drawings relating thereto. Additionally, the plans and specifications shall include such details as
the characteristics of the building site(s) may require, including, without limitation, a plot plan and
description of site development work, if any. The plans and specifications shall be submitted to
the Owner in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator.
Section 3. Contracts.
A. Bidder's Qualifications. After approval of the plans and specifications by the Owner
and Administrator, notices shall be sent to prospective bidders in accordance with
7 CFR Part 1753. The names of those so notified shall be forwarded to the Owner at the time
such notices are sent. The Engineer shall review with the Owner and the Owner shall approve the
qualifications of all prospective bidders. The Engineer shall prepare and furnish to qualified
contractors requesting them, the plans and specifications upon the conditions provided in the
applicable standard RUS contract forms.
B. Proposals. The Engineer shall be available to each prospective bidder for consultation
with respect to the details of the plans and specifications and all other matters pertaining to the
preparation of the proposals for the construction of the building(s) or the supply of materials and
equipment or services therefor. All changes to or clarifications of the plans and specifications
provided to one prospective bidder shall be provided in writing to all other prospective bidders
and to the Owner.
The Owner shall return unopened the bids received from bidders not specifically qualified
to bid the plans and specifications.
The Engineer shall attend and supervise all openings of bids for the construction of the
building(s) or for the furnishing of materials and equipment or services therefor. In the event that
less than three (3) bids are received from qualified bidders, the bids shall remain unopened and the
Engineer shall notify the Administrator thereof immediately. Unless otherwise directed by the
Owner, the Engineer shall proceed, in respect of the rebidding, in the manner provided for herein
for the initial bidding. The Engineer shall carefully check all bids received and shall render to the

RUS Form 217d
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

Owner all such assistance as shall be required in connection with consideration of the bids
received so that contracts may be prudently and properly awarded.
The Engineer shall submit in writing to the Owner recommendations of first, second and
third choice of bidders, stating the reasons therefor, or if the analysis of bids indicates that no bid
is satisfactory because of prices or other conditions, the engineer shall recommend to the Owner
that all bids be rejected, giving the reasons therefor.
C. Award of Contract. The Engineer shall prepare and furnish to the Owner three (3)
copies of a detailed tabulation of all the bids and a tabulation showing the bidders' names and
totals of all bids. The Owner shall submit to the Administrator the bidding information required
for approval of the award of the contract by the Administrator. Upon receipt of notice from the
Owner of the Administrator's approval of the award of the contract, the Engineer shall prepare
contracts in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.
D. Contract Amendments. If, after the contract has been approved by the Administrator
it shall be determined by the Owner that any change or changes in the plans and specifications are
advisable, the Engineer shall prepare and submit a contract amendment in accordance with
7 CFR Part 1753.
E. Compliance. The Engineer shall review all shop and manufacturer's drawings,
construction detail variations, and other data submitted by the Contractor, to determine apparent
compliance of such lists, drawings and other data with the approved contract. This shall not
relieve the Contractor of its obligation to comply with the plans and specifications.
F. Progress Reports. A competent representative of the Engineer shall make periodic
visits to the construction site to Inspect the progress and quality of the executed work and to
determine, in general, if the work is proceeding in accordance with the contract. The Engineer
shall report at least monthly to the Owner in writing stating the results of Inspections. When the
Engineer observes any failure of the executed work or work in progress to comply with the
requirements of the contract, this shall be reported to the Owner immediately. These reports shall
include suitable recommendations. If the engineer observes an unsafe practice, his only
responsibility shall be to consult immediately with the Contractor and if his concerns are not
satisfied, to notify the Owner immediately.
G. Final Inspection. The Owner and a representative of the Administrator will normally
conduct a final inspection of completed construction. When requested by the Owner, a qualified
representative of the Engineer shall be present.
Section 4. Final Documents. The Engineer shall prepare, and shall submit to the Owner
in a format suitable for approval by the Administrator, complete and detailed final documents as
specified in 7 CFR 1753 and a statement showing the total amounts due the Contractor pursuant
to the terms of the construction contract, including any approved amendments thereto. The final
documents shall be submitted for the Owner's approval within sixty (60) calendar days after the
Page 2

RUS Form 217d
Rev. 3-97

completion of construction based on the date shown on the certificate of completion covered by
each contract.
Section 5. Compensation.
A. Time and Expense. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and expense"
compensation as defined in the current Table 2 of this Agreement for: (1) all services performed
pursuant to section 1; (2) services performed for rebidding pursuant to paragraph B of section 3;
(3) all services in connection with additions to or modifications of existing buildings; and (4)
inspection of construction pursuant to paragraphs F and G of section 3;.
B. Percent of Cost. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for all other services performed
pursuant to this RUS Form 217d, including final documents, for each new building contract
included in the Project an amount equal to: _____ percent (_____%) of the first fifty thousand
dollars ($50,000.00); plus _____ percent (_____%) of the balance of the cost of construction
thereof, of which sums ninety percent (90%) shall be due and payable ten (10) days after approval
by the Administrator of a contract (or force account proposal) for the construction of the
buildings; and the balance of the compensation shall be due and payable ten (10) days after
approval by the Owner and the Administrator of a certificate of completion of construction for all
such buildings included in the Project (or in a completed section of the Project).
"Cost of construction" shall mean the total cost of labor and materials (including Ownerfurnished materials and labor) used in the construction of such buildings as shown on the final
documents prepared by the Engineer and approved by the Owner and Administrator.
Section 6. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217d - Building Plans and Specifications
and Contracts).

RUS Form 217d
Rev. 3-97

Page 3

(Page left intentionally blank)

Page 4

RUS Form 217d
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT--RUS FORM 217e
Outside Plant Staking Services
Section 1. Review of Requirements. Prior to the commencement of staking, the
Engineer shall review with the Owner the current requirements of the Project with respect to
outside plant and service entrance staking. At this review, decisions shall be reached concerning
public and private rights-of-way, nominal width of construction corridors, and design status.
Section 2. Staking Requirements.
A. General.
1.

Staking for aerial plant shall include locating the proposed line and marking all new
pole and other locations as necessary to construct the facilities.

2.

Staking for buried plant shall include locating the proposed facilities indicating all
pertinent construction information including details of the construction corridor.

3.

Staking for underground plant shall include locating conduit systems, construction
corridors, marking manhole sites and detailing all other pertinent information.

4.

Staking for service entrances shall include locating protectors on the structure, the
routing of aerial or buried entrances and the placement of markers, if required, to
indicate construction information.

B. Commencement. The Engineer, with the approval of the Owner, shall determine when
staking of the Project shall begin. The Engineer shall not commence staking in any area of the
Project until the Owner has:
1.

Either (a) stated in writing that right-of-way authorizations and easements reasonably
required therefor have been procured, or (b) directed the Engineer in writing to
perform right-of-way procurement under section 2, paragraph D, of RUS Form 217a
- Project Design, Assistance, and Coordination;

2.

Identified to the Engineer, by map locations, which line segments shall be staked on
public right-of-way and which line segments shall be staked on privately owned rightof-way; and

3.

Provided information to the Engineer pertaining to limitations on width of
construction corridors for each such line segment.

The Owner shall review with the Engineer, and shall inform the Engineer, which specific
lines are to be staked. The Owner shall furnish to the Engineer a current list of all existing and
potential subscribers by map location and grade of service for whom service is to be furnished.
RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97
Rev. 7-97

Page 1

When requested by the Engineer, the Owner shall also furnish the telephone numbers of the
existing subscribers. In determining when to proceed with staking, farming operations and other
relevant conditions shall be taken into consideration so as to minimize the need for restaking. The
Owner, when requested by the Engineer, shall furnish a qualified person to accompany each
staking crew for the purpose of negotiating with landowners or tenants with respect to such rightof-way authorizations and easements, widths of construction corridors, and locations of proposed
facilities.
C. Changes.
1.

If, during the progress of staking by the Engineer, the Owner shall change the routing
or location of a particular line segment, the Owner shall as early as practicable, notify
the Engineer in writing of such changes. Upon such notice the Engineer shall duly
note such change and instruct the staking crews accordingly. The same procedure
shall be followed for changes made in type or quantity of facilities during the staking
phase of the Project.

2.

If during the process of staking, the Engineer determines that the routing of facilities
along the right-of-way designated by the Owner would result in high costs of
placement due to obstacles, inadequate construction corridors, or other
circumstances, the Engineer shall notify the Owner and recommend alternative
routing. If alternative routing is approved by the Owner and right-of-way can be
obtained, the Engineer shall arrange to stake the facilities along the alternate route.

D. Time of Staking.
1.

The Engineer shall proceed diligently with staking and continue therewith in such a
manner that, prior to the release of plans and specifications to bidders, the staking of
all outside plant facilities except service entrances shall be complete in order that the
plans and specifications shall be complete and accurate.

2.

If service entrances are included in the construction contract, staking of the service
entrances shall be completed prior to beginning of construction in a Work Sector. If
such staking is being performed by the Owner, the Engineer shall keep the Owner
advised of the status of construction and the Owner shall do the staking in a timely
manner.

3.

The Engineer shall perform all restaking made necessary by changes discussed under
paragraph C of section 2, above, as necessary to minimize delays in construction.

E. Manner of Staking. The staking shall be done in a thorough and workmanlike manner
such that construction can be completed in accordance with the latest revision of the National
Electrical Safety Code, National Electric Code, local and State laws, rules, regulations and
orders of regulatory bodies having jurisdiction; and the Loan Design, Borrower's Environmental
Report, and specifications approved by the Owner and the Administrator. The Engineer shall in
Page 2

RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97

no case stake lines other than those shown in the approved Loan Design except for minor rerouting and minor changes dictated by field conditions, unless such change shall have been
previously approved by the Owner and the Administrator. The Engineer shall replace all markers
lost or removed prior to or during construction of the Project. All costs, including costs of
markers, equipment, and other materials used in connection with the staking, shall be borne by the
Engineer. All markers and existing poles shall be properly identified with corresponding listing on
the construction sheets. Where it is probable that the Contractor or the Owner will have difficulty
in locating markers, the Engineer shall provide some other suitable means to identify the location.
When staking service entrances, the Engineer shall give due consideration to the location of the
station protector (or network interface device if it incorporates a station protector) in relation to
the availability of adequate grounding and the length of the service drop and station wiring.
F. Construction Sheets. The Engineer shall prepare or maintain construction sheets in
such standard form as the Owner shall require (and as hereinafter described) to: serve as the
means by which directions are given for the construction of the Project; serve as the permanent
plant record by the Owner's facilities as built; and identify adequately the geographical location of
the facilities, including non-standard construction corridors and cable placement locations. The
Engineer shall enter thereon all pertinent and useful design, specifications and data governing the
construction of the Project, including, without limitations:
1.

Detailed instructions on the point of attachment of the Owner's facilities on existing
pole lines employed in joint use with others;

2.

Non-standard depths for installing buried and underground facilities;

3.

The presence, but not location of, buried facilities of other utilities when known;

4.

The presence of rock when known;

5.

Vegetation clearing requirements; and

6.

Surface type and surface features of terrain if appropriate.

Copies of construction sheets shall be made available for sale to all prospective bidders in
advance of the pre-bid conference. For contract construction five counterparts of the
construction sheets shall be supplied by the Engineer to the Contractor for construction use and
two copies shall be supplied to the Owner. For force account construction three copies of the
construction sheets shall be supplied to the Owner. When revisions in staking are necessary, the
Engineer shall issue copies of the revised construction sheets.
G. Resident. A Resident, with full authority to act for the Engineer per this attachment,
shall be maintained by the Engineer at the site of the Project at all times when staking or other
services required under this attachment are being performed at the site of this Project. The
Resident may also be engaged in staking as well as in supervising the staking activities of other
staking crews of the Engineer. The Engineer shall establish and maintain, in the proximity of the
RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97
Rev. 7-97

Page 3

Project, a field office with telephone service at all times when staking or other services required
under this RUS Form 217e are in progress.
H. Reporting. The Engineer shall prepare, execute, and submit to the Owner _____
(insert frequency of reporting - minimal monthly) all estimates, certificates, reports and other
documents required to be executed by the Engineer pursuant to the loan contract.
I. Joint Use or Joint Occupancy. In connection with staking of joint use or joint
occupancy facilities the Engineer shall:
1.

Prepare and submit to the Owner for approval, detailed information on pole changes,
additional poles, and other changes or additions required in existing facilities of other
parties to joint use or joint occupancy agreements to accommodate the Owner's
facilities; and

2.

Coordinate engineering activities under direction of the Owner with other parties to
joint use or joint occupancy agreements.

J. The Engineer with the approval of the Owner shall have the option of performing
staking on the project under the circumstances described below on a time and expense basis
consistent with Table 2 of this Agreement.
1.

Less than 10 miles of buried or aerial plant,

2.

Emergency restoral of service, or

3.

Natural disasters.

Section 3. Compensation. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for services performed
pursuant to this RUS Form 217e as follows:
A. Staking Fee. For all services in connection with the staking of the Project lines
provided for in the approved Project design, including lines which, pursuant to the direction of the
Owner, with the approval of the Administrator, shall not be constructed, and for all other services
outlined in this RUS Form 217e (except as provided in paragraph C of section 3):

Page 4

1.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of existing buried
plant Project lines to be modified; plus

2.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of new buried
plant Project lines; plus

3.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of underground
cable to be installed in ducts; plus
RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97

4.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of new aerial
Project lines; plus

5.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of existing aerial
Project lines to be modified; plus

6.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of new joint use
or joint occupancy Project lines; plus

7.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) per mile of existing Project
lines to be removed where no construction or modification work is to be performed;
plus

8.

The sum of ____________________ dollars ($________) for each new service
entrance staked and for which a construction sheet is prepared and each existing
service drop to be modified as part of the Project; plus

9.

The sum of _____ dollars ($_____) for each subscriber shown on the construction
sheets.

For purposes of this section "modified" means rearrangements, additions, change of pair
assignments, etc., which require preparation of construction sheets to implement.
The length of the Project lines shall be determined by taking the sum of all distances
between terminal points for underground cable and buried cable or conductor, and new service
entrances added as part of the Project and all distances between pole markers or from center to
center of poles carrying aerial conductor or cable, including joint use or joint occupancy poles,
plus the vertical distances parallel to vertical cable runs for aerial cable installations.
B. Time and Expenses. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and expense"
compensation as defined in the current Table 2 of this Agreement for all services performed in this
RUS Form 217e in connection with: section 1; paragraph C of section 2; paragraph I of section
2; paragraph J of section 2; and for the replacement of markers made necessary by causes beyond
the control of the Engineer.
C. Payments. Compensation under paragraph A of this section 3 shall be due and payable
ten (10) days after delivery to the Owner, on a monthly basis, a copy of the construction sheets
representing the staking completed during that month and a recapitulation of the mileage of the
various types of line covered by such construction sheets and by previous construction sheets for
which compensation has been requested.
The staking shall be subject to review and inspection by the Owner and the Administrator.
The Engineer, when notified to do so by the Owner or the Administrator, shall correct such
staking as the review and inspection may indicate to be necessary. Such review and payments
shall not constitute unqualified approval of the staking. Where restaking is required for reasons
within the control of the Engineer, no additional compensation shall be payable.
RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97
Rev. 7-97

Page 5

The compensation payable for lines actually constructed, shall be adjusted to the number
of units actually constructed or actually completed as part of the construction of the Project, as
reflected in the final documents. Compensation payable for lines which have been staked, but
which shall not be constructed, shall be determined from the construction sheets as covered by
line abandonment order.
D. Plant Retained in Place. Compensation under this section, for staking existing Project
lines on which modification work is to be performed, shall include compensation for the
designation of assembly units of existing plant to be retained in place, and shown on the
construction sheets.
Section 4. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217e - Outside Plant Staking Services).

Page 6

RUS Form 217e
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT--RUS FORM 217f
Outside Plant Contract Document Phase Engineering Services
Section 1. Review of Requirements. The Engineer shall use the Loan Design and other
information furnished by the Owner under this Agreement as the basis for the preparation of the
plans and specifications. Prior to the beginning of the preparation of the plans and specifications,
the Engineer shall review with the Owner all data furnished to determine the most recent
requirements for facilities to be included in the plans and specifications.
Section 2. Map Tracings and Other Data. Prior to and during the preparation of the
plans and specifications by the Engineer, the Owner, if it has not previously done so by other
provisions of this Agreement, shall furnish any of the following items needed by the Engineer:
A. Up-to-date tracings of the detail and town maps of the area of the proposed system on
which the Loan Design was based and which show the existing system, and a tracing of the key
map when a key map is required by the Owner;
B. Up-to-date cable schematics (cable plant layout), and construction sheets showing the
existing system construction;
C. Up-to-date line and station data on existing subscribers;
D. The Loan Design and Borrower's Environmental Report on which the loan was based;
E. Current information as to the location and extent of electric and other lines available
for joint use, together with conformed copies of all existing joint use or joint occupancy
agreements covering such lines;
F. Current listing of existing, signed, and potential subscribers by map location and grade
of service to be considered in the preparation of the plans and specifications. The list of existing
subscribers shall be properly referenced to the line and station data;
G. Detailed lists of materials on hand, or on order, which are to be furnished by the
Owner in the construction of the Project, together with the quantity and value of each item of
such materials; and
H. A written statement setting forth the scope of plans and specifications and the
sequence in which the construction shall be performed and whether service entrances are to be
included in the plans and specifications.
The map tracings, schematics, and construction sheets are to be of suitable material
capable of allowing corrections to be made of the information shown thereon and capable of being
reproduced.

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

Section 3. Schematics, Assignments, and Cut Sheets.
A. Cable Schematics. The Engineer shall prepare cable schematics in such form as the
Owner shall require to: (a) serve as a means by which directions are given for connecting feeder
cable and distribution cable pairs, cross-connection terminals, connecting load coils, and such
other directions as may be necessary for properly splicing the feeder cables, distribution cables
and other facilities being installed; (b) serve as the permanent circuit assignment record of the
Owner's cable and wire facilities; and (c) adequately identify the physical location of all
equipment, devices and connections other than services, associated with the pairs of such feeder
cable and distribution cable facilities.
B. Circuit and Number Assignments. If requested by the Owner, the Engineer shall
prepare telephone number assignments and shall identify the circuit to which the service is to be
connected for station installations, including without limitation such information with respect to
central office equipment connections as may be required.
C. Cut Sheets. Where modification of existing lines is to be performed, the Engineer shall
furnish in such form as the Owner shall require complete and detailed information, collectively
known as "Cut Sheets" for: (a) making such changes in circuit connections in the existing outside
plant as may be required, including without limitation all associated devices such as load coils,
terminals, and temporary connections; (b) making such changes in telephone number assignments
and service connections as may be required, including without limitations, the corresponding
connection changes required at the central office end; and (c) designating the sequence to be
followed in making such changes.
Section 4. Outside Plant Plans and Specifications and Contracts.
A. Plans and Specifications. The Engineer shall, to the extent not previously prepared
under other provisions of this Agreement, prepare and review with the Owner complete and
detailed plans and specifications, drawings, maps and other documents required for the
construction of the outside plant facilities to be included as a part of the Project. During the
preparation of the plans and specifications, the Engineer shall make such changes in the plans and
specifications as may be reasonably required by the Owner as a condition of approval by the
Owner and Administrator.
B. Content of Plans and Specifications. The plans and specifications for outside plant
shall be prepared in sufficient time to allow normal completion of construction of the outside plant
to coincide with the established service dates and shall include the following:

Page 2

1.

One copy of the key map of the system, when a tracing is furnished by the Owner.

2.

One copy (or more if necessary for clarity) of the central office area detail maps
(sometimes referred to as exchange detail maps) and town maps of the system, on
which there shall be indicated the following:
RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

a.

Location of lines to be constructed, indicating joint use or joint occupancy
lines;

b.

Location of switching centers and pair-gain devices;

c.

Location of existing lines included as part of the proposed system and
modification of such lines;

d.

Location of existing lines to be retired;

e.

Locations other than service entrances, where right-of-way has not been
obtained;

f.

Work Sectors indicating sequence of construction;

3.

Complete drawings of each type of non-standard RUS unit covering the construction
and the materials to be used.

4.

An estimate of quantities of the various units of construction.

5.

A complete cable plant layout and cable schematics, when applicable, for each central
office area as prepared pursuant to paragraph A of section 3.

6.

If the Project contains requirements for installation of underground conduit, manholes
and associated appurtenances, the Engineer, during the preparation of the plans and
specifications, shall secure field data necessary for the proper design of such facilities
(including plan and profile data, if required, and detail construction drawings,
including cable to be installed), and shall proceed with the preparation of detailed
plans and specifications for the construction of such facilities. Such drawings and
specifications, when completed, shall be added to, and made a part of, the
construction plans and specifications.

7.

An itemized list of materials on hand or on order to be furnished by the Owner,
showing the locations of delivery points and delivery schedules of such materials, the
quantity, unit price and extended price.

8.

The form of the contract to be entered into between a Contractor and the Owner for
the construction of the outside plant, including forms of notice and instructions to
bidders, Contractor's proposal, materials and construction specifications, Contractor's
bond, description of assembly units and construction drawings.

Note: Plans and specifications for outside plant facilities to be constructed under a force
account proposal do not require Items 7 and 8, above.

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

Page 3

C. Contracts.

Page 4

1.

Upon receipt of notice by the Engineer from the Owner of the Administrator's
approval of the plans and specifications, the Engineer shall, unless otherwise
instructed by the Owner, with the approval of the Administrator, proceed to take all
usual and customary actions, including compliance with the procedures set forth
herein and in 7 CFR Part 1753, to facilitate full, free, and competitive bidding for the
award of contracts.

2.

Notices to Bidders shall be sent in accordance with Subpart F of 7 CFR Part 1753.
The Engineer shall then review with the Owner and the Owner shall approve the
qualifications of bidders who replied to the notice, as a condition of release of bid
documents to any such bidder. The Engineer shall prepare and furnish to such
qualified bidders the appropriate bid documents including construction sheets, and the
plans and specifications upon the conditions provided in the applicable standard RUS
contract forms. The construction sheets shall be furnished upon payment of
reasonable charges. The Engineer shall also prepare and furnish, upon payment of
reasonable charges, to material suppliers requesting them, copies of the Contractor's
proposal sheets for outside plant together with any special drawings or material
specifications pertaining thereto and a list of materials to be furnished by the Owner.

3.

The Engineer shall conduct a Pre-Bid Conference in accordance with Subpart F of
7 CFR Part 1753 and shall be available to each prospective bidder for consultation
with respect to the details of the plans and specifications and all other matters
pertaining to the preparation of the proposals for the construction, or the supply of
materials and equipment or services therefor. All changes to or clarifications of the
plans and specifications provided to one prospective bidder shall be provided in
writing to all other prospective bidders and to the Owner.

4.

The Engineer shall attend and supervise all openings of bids for the construction, or
for the furnishing of materials and equipment or services therefor. The Owner shall
return unopened bids received from Bidders not previously qualified under paragraph
C2 of this section. In the event that bids are received from less than three (3)
qualified bidders, the bids shall remain unopened and the Owner shall notify the
Administrator thereof immediately. If directed by the Owner, the Engineer shall
proceed in respect of the rebidding, in the manner provided for herein for the initial
bidding. The Engineer shall check the assembly unit prices and summarize of all bids
received. The Engineer shall render to the Owner assistance in connection with the
Owner's consideration of the bids received so that contracts may be prudently and
properly awarded. The Engineer shall submit to the Owner a written
recommendation for award of the contract or rejection of all bids stating the reasons
therefor.

5.

The Engineer shall prepare and furnish to the Owner three (3) copies of the detailed
proposal sheets or a detailed tabulation of the low bid, and a tabulation showing the
RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

names and totals of all bids. The Owner shall submit to the Administrator the bidding
information for approval by the Administrator of the award of the contract. Upon
receipt of notice from the Owner of the Administrator's approval of the award of the
contract, the Engineer shall prepare three (3) counterparts of the construction
contract to be executed by the Owner and the successful bidder and the Owner shall
forward such executed counterparts to the Administrator for approval.
6.

If, after the construction contract has been approved by the Owner and the
Administrator, it shall be determined by the Owner that any changes in the plans and
specifications are advisable, the Engineer shall prepare and submit a contract
amendment in accordance with 7 CFR Part 1753.

D. Force Account.
1.

If all or a portion of the Project, shall be constructed by force account, the Engineer
shall prepare a force account proposal in accordance with Subpart G of
7 CFR Part 1753.
a.

When requested by the Owner, the Engineer shall prepare an itemized list of
the total quantities of all items of materials required for the construction
showing in addition the quantity of each item of materials the Owner has on
hand based on the list furnished by the Owner pursuant to paragraph G of
section 2.

b.

The force account proposal shall include an estimate, prepared in
collaboration with the Owner, of the unit construction costs in substantially
the same form as the Contractor's proposal in the standard contract form, and
a summary of the total estimated cost of construction, setting forth the
following:
(1) The total Cost of labor and other;
(2) The total Cost of materials; and
(3) The number of calendar days required for the construction.

2.

After receipt of notice by the Engineer from the Owner of approval by the
Administrator of the force account proposal, the Engineer, in collaboration with the
Owner, shall fix a date for the commencement of construction. In the determination
of this date, consideration shall be given to the status of material deliveries, staking,
easements, and the availability of competent construction personnel and adequate
equipment to facilitate continuous construction in an efficient and expeditious manner.
Such date as agreed upon shall be submitted to the Administrator by the Owner and
the date thus established shall be the "Commencement Date" for the construction.
The Engineer shall be available to the Owner for consultation with respect to the

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

Page 5

details of the plans and specifications and all other matters pertaining to the
construction of the Project.
3.

If, after the force account proposal has been approved by the Owner and the
Administrator, it shall be determined by the Owner that any change or changes in the
force account proposal are advisable, the Engineer shall prepare and submit to the
Owner all necessary details in connection with the change or changes, and upon
approval thereof by the Owner, the proposed change or changes shall be submitted by
the Owner to the Administrator. To the extent that the Administrator approves such
proposed change or changes they shall be included as part of the force account
proposal, and the Engineer shall immediately proceed in respect of any additional
staking, construction, and material contracts or amendments required thereby in like
manner as though such staking, construction, and material contracts or amendments
were originally included as part of the force account proposal.

Section 5. Compensation.
A. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for services performed pursuant to this RUS Form
217f (except as provided in paragraph B of this section) as follows:

1.

The sum of _______________ dollars ($________) or when the outside plant is
divided into sections for construction purposes requiring separate plans and
specifications for each section; a sum of _______________ dollars ($________) for
each such section for which complete plans and specifications are prepared; plus,

2.

The sum of _______________ dollars ($________) for each approved amendment to
the contract; plus

3.

The sum of _______________ dollars ($________) per mile for each mile of Project
line facilities (1) included in the plans and specifications, and (2) added or deleted by
approved amendments to the plans and specifications; plus

4.

The sum of _______________ dollars ($________) for each approved force account
proposal.

The compensation payable under paragraph A of this section shall be due and payable ten
(10) days after the approval of the plans and specifications or approved amendments by the
Owner and the Administrator.
B. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and expense" compensation as defined in the
current Table 2 of this Agreement for services: (1) as requested by the Owner, in connection with
corrections to, or the furnishing of, items required to be furnished by the Owner per section 2; (2)
required under section 3; (3) in connection with underground conduits, paragraph B6 of section 4;
Page 6

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

(4) for changes in force account plans and specifications, paragraph D3 of section 4; and (5) in
connection with the conducting of the Pre-Bid Conference, paragraph C3 of section 4, and for
rebidding, paragraph C4 of section 4.
Section 6. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment (RUS Form 217f - Outside Plant Plans and
Specifications and Contracts).

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

Page 7

(Page left intentionally blank)

Page 8

RUS Form 217f
Rev. 3-97

ATTACHMENT--RUS FORM 217g
Outside Plant Construction Phase Engineering Services
Section 1. Construction Phase.
A. General. As engineering representative of the Owner, and in accordance with sound
and accepted engineering practices, the Engineer: (1) shall provide Construction Administration
and Inspection services; (2) shall assist the Owner in obtaining the expeditious and economical
construction of the Project in accordance with the approved plans and specifications, the terms of
the construction contract or force account proposal, and 7 CFR Part 1753; and (3) shall have and
exercise sole responsibility for the issuance of supplemental directives to the Contractor regarding
the Contractor's performance in accordance with the terms of the construction contract as
approved by the Owner and the Administrator. The Engineer's undertaking hereunder shall not
relieve the Contractor of the Contractor's obligation to perform the work in conformity with the
plans and specifications and in a workmanlike manner and shall not impose upon the Engineer any
obligation to see that the work is performed in a safe manner. The Engineer shall not be
responsible for the failure of the Contractor to perform the work in accordance with the contract
or to perform the work in a safe workmanlike manner. In fulfilling the above responsibility, the
Engineer shall as necessary:
1.

Interpret the plans and specifications and convey such interpretation to the
Contractor;

2.

Inspect the progress of and quality of construction, in sufficient detail to provide
reasonable assurance to the Owner of the adequacy of such progress and quality of
construction, pursuant to the requirements of the plans and specifications and
contract;

3.

Confirm the acceptability of materials and equipment proposed by the Contractor to
be utilized in the construction prior to the use of such materials or equipment on the
Project and promptly reject materials and equipment not in compliance with the plans
and specifications; and

4.

Inspect the manner of incorporation of the materials and equipment into the Project,
and the workmanship with which such materials and equipment are incorporated and
reject materials, equipment and workmanship which the Engineer determines will not
be in compliance with the plans and specifications. Such Inspection shall be deemed
to be adequate if a reasonable percentage of all routine construction units (other than
units requiring detailed inspection) are observed at the time of installation and found
free of error.

The above enumeration of specific requirements shall not limit the general undertakings of
the Engineer to perform services set forth in the first sentence of paragraph A of this section. The
obligations of the Engineer hereunder are for the benefit of only the Owner and the Administrator,
RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

Page 1

and shall not relieve the Contractor of any of its own responsibilities under its contract with the
Owner.
B. Residents and Inspectors.
1.

A Resident with full authority to act for the Engineer shall be maintained by the
Engineer at the site of the Project at all times during the entire period of scheduled
construction (including times when the Resident is available and through no fault of
the Engineer scheduled construction is not performed, and including times when
corrective work is being performed) unless specifically directed otherwise by the
Owner with the approval of the Administrator. A Resident shall be necessary for each
outside plant construction contract.

2.

If, at any time during construction, a Resident, or Inspector, is not required at the
Project site, or such personnel are not available because of other responsibilities on
the Project, the Engineer shall assign a Resident and/or Inspector on an intermittent
basis, to effect necessary observations of construction during any critical phase of
such construction.

3.

If the Engineer determines that particular components of the work or particular
circumstances during construction require the presence of a specialized representative
of the Engineer, such as an architect, structural engineer, design engineer or other
specialist for the purpose of interpreting contract requirements, or performing special
inspections or tests to facilitate compliance by the Contractor with the plans and
specifications and terms of the construction contract, the Engineer with prior
approval of the Owner shall assign such personnel to the Project site.

4.

The Engineer shall maintain at the site of the Project and under the direct supervision
of the Resident a sufficient number of qualified Inspectors, to fully discharge the
responsibility of the Engineer pursuant to paragraph A of this section (including times
when such assigned Inspectors are available and through no fault of the Engineer
scheduled construction is not performed). The number of Inspectors so required will
vary with the size of the Project, the number of construction crews, and the speed of
construction.

5.

The number of Residents and Inspectors required by the Engineer for a routine
construction schedule for this Project to effect completion within the allowed number
of scheduled "working days" is as follows:

6.
Page 2

a.

_____ (_____) Residents(s);

b.

_____ (_____) Inspectors(s);

In the event conditions should arise, through no fault of and beyond control of the
Engineer, which would require the placement by the Engineer of additional Inspectors
RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

(or Residents) on the Project, to accommodate special needs of the Owner (or
Contractor, with approval of the Owner), then, with the approval of the Owner prior
to their assignment to the Project, the Engineer shall assign such additional qualified
personnel to the Project for the limited time of such requirements.
C. Pre-Construction Conference. A competent representative from the office of the
Engineer, and the Resident (or Residents) to be assigned to the Project, shall conduct the outside
plant pre-construction conference. The detailed notes taken by the Engineer on items discussed
shall be furnished to all parties. Such notes shall be used by the Resident, as applicable, in
interpreting the plans and specifications pursuant to paragraph A1 of this section.
D. Project Office. The Engineer shall establish and maintain a field office, with telephone
service, in the proximity of the Project when construction is in progress and shall notify the
Owner of the address and telephone number of such field office. Any notices, instructions or
communications delivered to such field office shall be deemed to have been delivered to the
Engineer.
E. Defective Construction. If the construction is by contract, the Engineer shall notify the
Contractor in writing of all observed or otherwise determined defects in workmanship or materials
in accordance with the terms of the construction contract. If the construction is by force account,
the Engineer shall advise the Owner relative to the correction of such defects.
F. Joint Use or Joint Occupancy. In connection with all joint use or joint occupancy
construction, the Engineer shall:
1.

Coordinate construction activities for the Owner with the designated representative of
other parties to joint use or joint occupancy agreements;

2.

Review for the Owner all changes proposed by other parties to joint use or joint
occupancy agreements for changes in and additions to their existing pole lines under
such agreements and submit to the Owner recommendations thereon.

G. Tests. The Engineer shall conduct, or cause to be conducted, such tests of circuits and
equipment as required by the Owner and the Administrator to determine compliance with the
performance requirements of the plans and specifications. The Engineer shall make
recommendations in writing for the correction of defective materials, workmanship, or equipment.
All cases of transmission or operational difficulties due to faulty construction or defective
materials or equipment in the Project shall be reported in writing to the Contractor for correction
if the construction is by contract or to the Owner if construction is by force account. When the
corrections have been made, the circuits and equipment shall again be tested. The Engineer shall
furnish test equipment as required for performing all required tests or measurements.

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

Page 3

The outside plant tests to be made on this Project are noted in the table below:

Description of Test or Measurements

C.O. Ground Measurement
Copper Shield or Shield/Armor Continuity
Conductor Continuity
Shield or Armor Ground Resistance
Conductor Insulation Resistance
DC Loop Resistance
DC Loop Resistance Unbalance
VF Insertion Loss
Loop Measurements (Loop Checking)
Two-Person Structural Return Loss
One-Person Open Circuit Measurements
Cable Insertion Loss at Carrier Frequency
Fiber Armor Continuity
Fiber Optic Splice Loss - Field
Fiber Optic Splice Loss - C. O.
End-to End Attenuation
End-to End Fiber Signature

Test or Measurements
Subscriber
Loop Plant Trunk Plant
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

Will perform or participate
in performing tests
Owner

Engineer
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

As appropriate, complete the table using these symbols:
X

-

*

-

N/A

-

These are standard tests and measurements required on facilities as desired by the
owner or required by the Administrator.
These tests will not be required if the distribution pairs are not cross-connected to
feeder pairs at the time of acceptance testing.
Not Applicable

H. Connecting Companies. The Engineer shall coordinate all engineering and
construction activities with connecting companies and shall notify the Owner when the Project, or
a section thereof, shall be ready to be placed in service. After giving such notice, the Engineer
shall, when directed to do so by the Owner, cause the Project, or such section thereof as may be
ready, to be placed in service.
I. Reporting. The Engineer shall prepare, execute and submit to the Owner _____ (insert
frequency of reporting - minimal monthly) all estimates, certificates, reports, and other documents
required to be executed by the Engineer pursuant to a construction contract, a force account
proposal, or the 7 CFR Part 1753. The Engineer shall review and, if satisfactory, recommend for
approval each periodic estimate submitted by contractors prior to approval and payment by the
Page 4

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

Owner. Such recommendations shall include a statement by the Engineer based on the Engineer's
Inspection of executed work and the progress of the work and subject to evaluation and testing of
the work as a completed Project, that all construction for which payment is requested has been
completed and cleaned up in accordance with the terms of the construction contract and that all
defective construction of which the Contractor shall have received fifteen (15) or more days
written notice, has been corrected.
The Engineer shall maintain a cumulative inventory of all units of construction
incorporated in the Project, showing unit prices and extended totals, for all such units of
construction. When it appears that the previously approved contract total is likely to be
exceeded, the Engineer shall immediately notify the Owner in a format suitable for notifying the
Administrator. When requested by the Owner or when the "Overrun" results in 20% above the
contract total, the Engineer shall prepare a contract amendment in accordance with
7 CFR Part 1753 for execution by the Parties to the construction contract, to cover the additions
or changes in construction units that are resulting in such "Overrun".
J. Final Inspection. The Owner and a representative of the Administrator will normally
conduct a final inspection of completed construction. When requested by the Owner, a qualified
representative of the Engineer shall be present.
Section 2. Final Documents.
A. Contract Construction. If the Project or any portion thereof shall be constructed
pursuant to a construction contract, the Engineer shall prepare and submit to the Owner complete
and detailed final documents as specified in 7 CFR 1753 and a statement of all amounts payable
by the Owner under the construction contract. The final documents shall be in a format suitable
for approval by the Owner and subsequent submission to the Administrator for approval. These
final documents shall be submitted to the Owner within forty-five (45) calendar days after the
completion of construction based on the date shown on the certificate of completion covered by
each contract.
B. Force Account Construction. If the Project or any portion thereof shall be constructed
by force account:
1.

Within thirty (30) calendar days after completion of construction of the Project, the
Owner shall furnish to the Engineer the following data:
a.

The cost of all materials used in construction of the Project;

b.

Cost of right-of-way clearing (direct labor costs);

c.

All direct labor costs chargeable to construction exclusive of the right-of-way
clearing; and

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

Page 5

d.

2.

A list of all items of overhead cost applicable to the construction of the
Project, but excluding the cost of engineering, legal, accounting and other
professional services, interest during construction and preliminary survey
charges.

Within forty-five (45) calendar days after the completion of construction of the
Project, the engineer shall prepare and submit to the Owner for approval complete
and detailed final documents in such form as the Administrator may prescribe,
including without limitation, a final inventory of construction and a final inventory of
retirements. The final documents shall contain the labor and material unit costs based
on data supplied by the Owner.

C. Number of Copies. Copies of final documents shall be furnished in accordance with
7 CFR Part 1753.
Section 3. Plant Records.
A. Prior to Cutover. If the Owner shall have notified the Engineer not later than ten (10)
days prior to of the start of construction in a central office area that the Owner elects to assign to
the Engineer the preparation of any of the following plant records, the Engineer shall prepare and
deliver these records to the Owner, not later than fifteen (15) calendar days prior to the start of
Cutover of each central office area included as a part of the Project. These records cover the
Cutover work on facilities completed as of the date of delivery of such records for each such area.
The following records shall be in such form as the Owner, with the approval of the Administrator,
may prescribe:
1.

Cable schematics, corrected to show "as constructed" conditions of that portion of
the Project as of such date;

2.

Cable records data, for completed line segments as of such date;

3.

Line and station data for completed line segments as of such date; and

4.

Terminal assignment records.

B. After Cutover. The Engineer shall deliver to the Owner, within thirty (30) calendar
days after Cutover of facilities in any completed exchange area or completed section of the
Project, the record drawings of the following plant records covering such Project area (excluding
any of such records that the Owner has previously elected to prepare with its own forces):

Page 6

1.

Cable schematics, corrected to show "as constructed" conditions of such Project area;

2.

Cable record data, for all construction completed in such Project area;

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

3.

Line and station records for all lines completed in such Project area as a part of the
Project;

4.

Final maps, showing record drawings facilities completed in such Project area; and

5.

Final complete and detailed construction sheets, showing facilities completed in such
Project area, including the designation of assembly units of existing plant retained in
place along existing plant lines segments on which modification work was performed
as a part of the Project.

Section 4. Inventory and Appraisal. When requested by the Owner, the Engineer shall
prepare within thirty (30) calendar days after completion of construction of the Project and submit
to the Owner an inventory and appraisal of all existing telephone plant retained as part of the
Owner's system. The inventory and appraisal shall be in such form and provide such data as the
Owner, with the approval of the Administrator, may prescribe.
Section 5. Compensation.
A. For Services Under sections 1, 3 and 4. The Owner shall pay the Engineer "time and
expense" compensation, as defined and detailed in current Table 2 of this Agreement for all
services performed under sections 1, 3 and 4. Compensation under this section shall not exceed
__________________ dollars ($________) unless said amount has been increased by a contract
amendment approved by the Owner and the Administrator. Appropriate documentation justifying
the increase shall accompany the contract amendment.
Compensation under paragraph A of this section shall be due and payable as follows:
1.
2.

Ninety-five Percent (95%) thereof shall be due and payable ten (10) days after
delivery each month of the invoice of the Engineer;
The balance of such compensation shall be due and payable ten (10) days after
delivery of a statement by the Engineer to the Owner certifying that all final
documents prepared by the Engineer, for execution by the Contractor, have been
mailed or delivered to the Contractor for execution.

B. For Services Under section 2. The Owner shall pay the Engineer for all services
performed under section 2 as follows:

1.

The sum of _________________ dollars ($________) for each service entrance to be
installed, replaced or modified during the construction of the Project; plus

2.

The sum of _________________ dollars ($________); or when the Project is divided
into sections for which separate outside plant plans and specifications are prepared,
the sum of _________________ dollars ($________) for each section requiring final
documents; plus the sum of _________________ dollars ($________) for each mile

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97

Page 7

of Project line facilities included in the final documents. Ninety-five (95%) percent of
the compensation under this paragraph shall be due and payable ten (10) days after
approval by the Owner and the Administrator of the respective final documents and
the balance of the compensation under this paragraph shall be due and payable ten
(10) days after completion of the Project as defined in the Table 1.
C. Bi-weekly Statement. For compensation covered by paragraph A this section, the
Engineer shall submit to the Owner a biweekly statement showing the names of the Residents and
Inspectors, and the actual time spent on the Project by each Resident and each Inspector during
the preceding period. The statement should be prepared and submitted to the Owner in a format
similar to that shown in RUS Form 217, Exhibit A.
Section 6. Section Reference. Unless otherwise specified or indicated, any reference to
"section" shall mean within this attachment RUS Form 217g - Outside Plant Construction-Project
Direction, Inspection, Testing and Contract Closeout.

Page 8

RUS Form 217g
Rev. 3-97