Communication Franchise February 2026

Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government is soliciting non-exclusive communications franchise bid proposals from qualified parties interested in erecting, installing, and maintaining communications facilities within Louisville Metro's rights-of-way to provide communication services under Chapter 116 of the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances. Applicants must submit detailed proposals through Louisville Metro Government's Procurement Portal describing their proposed systems organized by Council District, including anticipated small cell antenna locations, fiber routing specifications (aerial and underground percentages), ground-level elements, underground installation methodologies compliant with FCC standards and Public Works utility policies, project phasing, and all types of communications services planned. Required qualifications include corporate status as a Kentucky-authorized business entity certified by the Kentucky Secretary of State, submission of a non-refundable $2,500 application fee, a $1,000,000 franchise bond, proof of PSC and FCC Certificates of Authority or signed waivers, and comprehensive insurance policies and certificates acceptable to Louisville Metro's Insurance & Risk Coordinator. The bid submission period operates on a rolling schedule with open submission periods beginning on the 15th of each month at 3:00 PM and closing periods ending on the 30th of each month at 3:00 PM; the specific opportunity referenced has a posted date of February 15, 2026, and a due date of February 28, 2026. Louisville Metro reserves the right to accept any bid, reject all bids, waive irregularities or informalities, and request supplementary information, with franchises to be granted under Chapter 116 as in effect at the time bid approval occurs, though the ordinance may be amended during the awarded franchise term.

The solicitation does not specify set-aside designations, disadvantaged enterprise requirements, or restrictions limiting response eligibility beyond the standard business authorization and certification requirements. No incumbent vendors, current contractors, or existing infrastructure integration requirements are identified in the available documentation. Specific award values, budget ranges, contract term lengths, renewal options, and detailed financial terms are referenced within Chapter 116 of the Louisville Metro Code of Ordinances and updated ordinance documentation available as part of the solicitation package but are not enumerated in the legal notice or general information documents provided. All applicants must comply with Louisville Metro procurement laws, regulations, and procedures in addition to ordinance requirements, and all application information is subject to Kentucky Open Records Act disclosure unless the applicant obtains a confidentiality determination prior to filing.