Cell Tower RFPv2.pdf

Town of Madison Request for Proposals (RFP)

Cellular Signal Coverage Study

1. Introduction

The Town of Madison, Connecticut (“Town”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms or consultants to conduct a comprehensive cellular signal coverage study within the Town’s municipal boundaries. The purpose of this study is to assess existing wireless coverage, identify gaps or deficiencies in service, and provide data-driven recommendations to inform future planning, public safety, and infrastructure decision-making.

2. Background

Madison is a shoreline community located in New Haven County, Connecticut. Reliable cellular service is essential for residents, businesses, visitors, and emergency services. The Town seeks an objective, technically sound analysis of current cellular coverage conditions across all major carriers and technologies, including voice and data services.

The results of this study may be used to support municipal planning efforts, public safety initiatives, regulatory reviews, and coordination with wireless service providers.

3. Objectives

The objectives of this project include, but are not limited to:

Evaluating existing cellular coverage throughout the Town of Madison

Identifying areas of weak, unreliable, or nonexistent service

Assessing coverage for both voice and data services

Considering implications for public safety communications

Providing clear, actionable recommendations for improving coverage

4. Scope of Services

The selected consultant shall perform, at a minimum, the following tasks:

4.1. Data Collection and Analysis

Review existing available data related to cellular infrastructure and coverage

Identify major wireless carriers serving the area (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and others as applicable) and the extent of service coverage for each carrier.

Evaluate coverage across relevant technologies (e.g., LTE, 5G, voice)

4.2. Field Testing and Mapping

Conduct field measurements and/or drive testing to assess real-world signal strength and service reliability. Field measurements must be conducted to the extent required to deliver a “heat map” style of analysis by carrier.

Evaluate coverage in:

Residential areas

Commercial areas

Coastal areas

Public buildings and facilities

Major roadways

Environmentally or topographically challenging areas

Produce GIS-based or equivalent maps illustrating coverage levels and gaps

4.3. Public Safety Considerations

Assess cellular coverage related to emergency response and public safety needs

Identify critical gaps affecting first responders, emergency communications, and resiliency

4.4. Findings and Recommendations

Identify causes of coverage gaps (e.g., terrain, infrastructure limitations)

Provide technically feasible recommendations to improve service per carrier

Outline potential infrastructure solutions and planning considerations

Present findings in a clear, non-technical format suitable for public presentation

5. Deliverables

At a minimum, the consultant shall provide:

Draft Technical Report summarizing methodology, findings, and preliminary recommendations

Final Report, incorporating Town feedback, including:

Executive summary

Coverage maps and graphics clearly displaying signal availability/intensity (by carrier) within the boundaries of the entire Town of Madison.

Identification of coverage gaps

Recommendations and implementation considerations

Digital files of all maps and data used in the study

Presentation to Town staff and Board of Selectman, total of 2 presentations.

6. Project Schedule

Proposers shall include a proposed project schedule, including key milestones. The Town anticipates the project to be completed within 6 months of contract execution.

7. Consultant Qualifications

Proposals must demonstrate:

Experience conducting cellular or wireless coverage studies

Technical expertise in wireless communications and signal analysis

Experience working with municipalities or public agencies

Familiarity with Connecticut or New England geography (preferred)

Qualifications of key personnel assigned to the project

8. Proposal Submission Requirements

Proposals shall include the following:

Cover Letter

Firm Overview and Qualifications

Proposed Approach and Methodology

Project Team and Resumes

Relevant Experience and References – provide examples of (5) similar studies in the last 5 years.

Project Schedule

Cost Proposal, including a detailed breakdown of fees and hourly rates for any personnel who will be involved in the project

Exceptions or Assumptions, if any

9. Evaluation Criteria

Proposals will be evaluated based on:

Understanding of the project and proposed methodology

Experience and qualifications of the firm and project team

Quality and clarity of deliverables

Cost and overall value to the Town

References and past performance

The Town reserves the right to interview proposers and to select the proposal deemed to be in the best interest of the Town.

10. Submission Instructions

Sealed proposals must be received no later than:

Date: May 1, 2026

Time: 11:00 AM

Proposals shall be submitted to:

Jeanne Stevens

Town of Madison

8 Campus Dr., Madison CT 06443

Proposals will be opened at 11:00 AM on May 1, 2026 in Room A at Madison Town Hall 8 Campus Dr., Madison CT. 06443.

11. General Conditions

The Town reserves the right to reject any or all proposals.

The Town may waive informalities or minor defects in proposals.

All costs incurred in preparing a proposal are the responsibility of the proposer.

Questions related to this RFP must be submitted via email to deburrase@madisonct.org no later than 4:00 PM Friday April 10, 2026.

All questions and responses thereto, as well as any other necessary addendums, will be published on the Town of Madison’s website under the “Resources and Forms” tab, then “Bid/RFP Postings” and State of CT/DAS site by 4:00 PM Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

mailto:deburrase@madisonct.org https://www.madisonct.org/ https://www.madisonct.org/bids.aspx