25-044 (BS) Cisco Wireless Equipment and Installation for Construction Schools (E-Rate)

The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) is seeking proposals for Cisco wireless equipment and installation services for construction schools under RFP #25-044, with anticipated E-Rate funding. The procurement encompasses the acquisition and installation of wireless access points (APs), including 163 standard APs, 5 high-density APs, and 5 outdoor APs, along with associated software licenses, mounting hardware, and accessories. Deliverables include comprehensive installation services involving removal of existing equipment, configuration, testing, labeling, and documentation across four district construction projects. Proposals must be submitted electronically through the Bonfire Portal by February 10, 2026, at 3:00 PM CST, with a 120-calendar-day proposal validity period. The evaluation criteria prioritize purchase price (35 points), quality and district needs alignment (30 points), vendor reputation (10 points), long-term cost (6 points), and references (5 points), with additional considerations for HUB compliance (5 points) and other relevant factors (4 points). Questions must be submitted in writing through the Bonfire Portal by January 22, 2026, at 12:00 PM, with responses posted by January 23, 2026.

While no specific set-aside designations are explicitly stated, the RFP demonstrates an interest in HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) compliance, which may provide opportunities for diverse vendors. The district prefers Cisco equipment but will consider equivalent alternatives, with a requirement that any proposed access points needing controllers must include compatible solutions if they cannot connect to existing Cisco controllers. Performance and payment bonds or irrevocable letters of credit are mandatory for contracts exceeding $25,000, along with comprehensive general liability insurance of $500,000 CSL, workers' compensation coverage, and professional liability insurance of $500,000. The contract term is one year from Board of Trustees approval, with options to renew for two additional one-year periods and potential price renegotiations. While no specific award value is detailed, the procurement is contingent on District and E-Rate funding availability, with no guaranteed minimum purchase amount. The project is planned for completion during E-Rate Funding Year 2026 (July 1, 2026 - September 30, 2027), utilizing either the SPI or BEAR billing method depending on E-Rate approval timing.