Fiber Optic Install at Seney NWR

The Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service has published a Special Notice regarding fiber optic installation services at Seney National Wildlife Refuge in Seney, Michigan. This is a notice of intent to award a sole source contract to Highline Internet, the only broadband service provider currently serving the geographic area. The justification for the sole source award is based on FAR 6.302-1, citing that only one responsible source exists and no other supplies or services will satisfy the agency requirement. The notice was posted on April 6, 2026, with a due date of April 20, 2026. Notably, this notice is for informational purposes only and is not a formal request for quote or solicitation for offers.

The project objective is to install underground single mode fiber optic cable to provide high-speed internet service to the new Headquarters and Visitor Center and the existing Maintenance Shop at the refuge. Interested contractors are encouraged to submit capability statements, proposals, or quotations for consideration in determining whether to conduct a competitive acquisition; such submissions will be evaluated at the discretion of the government. The contractor must be state-licensed with demonstrated fiber optic installation experience and must perform work between an estimated May 1, 2026 start date and a June 12, 2026 completion deadline. Key requirements include providing armored, direct-burial rated single mode fiber optic cable capable of supporting 2 GB service, coordinating with the Fish and Wildlife Service Infrastructure Management Division, obtaining utility locates and route approval, and delivering an as-built map with fiber testing results demonstrating signal performance and continuity. While Highline Internet is identified as the preferred contractor, alternative qualified contractors are eligible to participate in the evaluation process.