FirstNet, the organization tasked with managing a nationwide first responders network has released a long-awaited RFP for technology contracts associated with the network.
The release of the RFP follows more than a year of dialogue with public safety and industry on the objectives and scope of the RFP for the FirstNet network. The build-up to the release has included 13 Requests for Information, a set of draft RFP documents, two public events, answers to more than 650 questions related to network specifications, and meetings with interested vendors.
“We have developed this RFP in an open forum to create a ‘first of its kind’ public-private partnership for the network,” said FirstNet Chief Executive Officer Mike Poth in a statement. “As we move into the next phase of the process, we look forward to receiving competitive offerings to deliver the best possible network for public safety.”
FirstNet will spend up to $6.5 billion on individual task orders to create the network for all 56 states and territories. Proposals will be due April 29, 2016.
According to the RFP, all technology task orders should include solutions that work for a range of networks, operating systems, and devices. FirstNet also wants to be able to support “bring your own device” programs. FirstNet partners will also have the right to monetize the 20MHz spectrum band.
The full text of the RFP is available here. FirstNet has also created a “reading room” with relevant documentation available here.
