2025 E-Rate Network Cabling Additions

Swartz Creek Community Schools in Michigan is seeking bids for a comprehensive network cabling infrastructure upgrade across six school facilities, including Swartz Creek High School, Swartz Creek Middle School, and four elementary schools (Dieck, Elms Road, Gaines, and Morrish). The project involves installing Category 6A UTP cabling infrastructure, with a focus on classroom technology enhancements, including two cables per classroom (one terminated at the front of the room and one coiled in the ceiling). The procurement requires replacement of network cabinets with insufficient expansion room, installation of cabinet rails, and implementation of proper bonding and grounding solutions in IDFs and MDFs. A mandatory bidder's conference is scheduled for February 6, 2025, with final questions due February 13, 2025, and bid proposals due February 27, 2025. The project timeline includes a contract award on March 7, 2025, with work to begin April 1, 2025, and completion expected by August 13, 2025. Bidders must include their Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) to qualify for E-Rate funding under the FY2025 universal service support mechanism.

The procurement requires a bid security of 5% of the maximum bid proposal amount, with performance and labor/material payment bonds at 100% of the contract sum. Bidders must provide proof of insurance with minimum coverage of $1-2 million depending on project value. Two voluntary alternates are included: replacement of multi-mode fiber between IDFs/MDFs with single-mode fiber, and removal of old cabling from two computer labs at the high school. The project includes specific requirements such as sworn and notarized disclosure statements regarding familial relationships with school board members or the superintendent, and a signed Iran Economic Sanctions Affidavit. While no specific set-aside designations are mentioned, the detailed technical specifications suggest a preference for experienced telecommunications infrastructure contractors with expertise in educational facility cabling installations. The project leverages existing infrastructure across multiple school buildings, with comprehensive design drawings prepared by Convergent Technology Partners detailing specific cabling requirements for each facility. Though an exact budget is not specified, the extensive scope and multiple facility involvement suggest a significant project investment.