Bi-Directional Antenna Systems Installation, Annual Maintenance, Remote Monitoring, and Required Recertification of Emergency Responder Communication Systems

Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) is soliciting bids for Invitation for Bid (IFB) #251-26-130, seeking comprehensive services for Bi-Directional Antenna Systems (BDAS) across 72 school sites within Wake County, North Carolina. The procurement encompasses installation, annual maintenance, remote monitoring, and required recertification of Emergency Responder Communication Coverage systems, specifically focusing on Fire Responder and Public Safety Radio Signal Boosters. Vendors must submit detailed proposals including design drawings, signal propagation plans, system riser diagrams, an acceptance test plan, and comprehensive documentation of organizational experience. The bid requires vendors to provide complete pricing structures, including set fees, hourly rates, and associated expenses, with a mandatory compliance to the 2018 North Carolina State Building Code: Fire Prevention Code standards. The bid is scheduled for opening on March 31, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET, with an initial contract term of twelve months and potential renewals for up to four additional one-year terms. Evaluation criteria will primarily assess vendor qualifications, relevant experience, fee structures, and demonstrated capability to perform work efficiently and effectively.

The procurement encourages participation from historically underutilized businesses, specifically highlighting opportunities for minority-owned, women-owned, and small business enterprises. Vendors must meet stringent insurance requirements, including commercial general liability, automobile liability, worker's compensation, and specialized insurance coverages. WCPSS reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and is not obligated to award to the lowest bidder, indicating a comprehensive evaluation approach that prioritizes quality and capability over cost alone. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly detailed, the scope of work covering 72 school sites suggests a substantial contract value. The procurement process emphasizes technical competence, with requirements for vendors to submit product datasheets, maintenance and warranty plans, and provide a percentage discount off MSRP for replacement parts. This approach suggests WCPSS is seeking a long-term, strategic partner capable of maintaining complex emergency communication infrastructure across their school district.