Communication Franchise August 2025

Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government is soliciting non-exclusive communications franchise bid proposals for companies interested in erecting, installing, and maintaining communication facilities within Metro Rights of Way. The procurement seeks providers capable of establishing comprehensive communication systems, including small cell antennae, aerial and underground fiber installations, and ground-level communication infrastructure. Applicants must submit detailed system descriptions outlining geographical areas, anticipated equipment locations, installation methodologies compliant with FCC standards, and project phasing plans. The franchise opportunity requires a non-refundable application fee of $2,500 and a $1,000,000 franchise bond, with submissions due through Louisville Metro's Procurement Portal by August 31, 2025. Mandatory application components include signed applications, proposed system details per Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances Chapter 116, PSC and FCC certificates of authority, and comprehensive insurance policies approved by the city's Insurance & Risk Coordinator. Franchises will be granted under the current terms of Chapter 116, which may be amended during the franchise period, with terms not exceeding twenty years.

The communications franchise opportunity appears open to all qualified communication service providers without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Successful applicants must demonstrate substantial technical capabilities, including maintaining 24-hour customer service, providing access to Public, Educational, and Government Access channels at no cost to Louisville Metro, and complying with equal employment opportunity requirements. Insurance requirements are stringent, mandating $5,000,000 in general liability coverage per occurrence, $5,000,000 in automobile liability, and statutory workers' compensation limits. While no specific incumbent vendors are mentioned, the franchise requires providers to coordinate with Louisville Metro's Public Works and Assets Department for all construction work, subject to departmental approval and inspection. Though an exact award value is not specified, the substantial bonding and insurance requirements suggest the franchise is designed for established communications infrastructure providers with significant financial and technical resources capable of implementing comprehensive metropolitan communication systems.