Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network

The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for an Emergency Services Internet Protocol Network (ESInet) and Next Generation Core Services (NGCS) solution to support a statewide Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) environment. The procurement targets vendors capable of providing NENA i3 standards-compliant technical solutions for a comprehensive emergency communication infrastructure covering all 67 counties in Pennsylvania, including Adams County and Gibraltar CDP. Key objectives include developing an interoperable, scalable, and secure network that can integrate with existing regional ESInets and support advanced emergency communication capabilities. The RFI seeks detailed information on ESInet architecture, NGCS functionality, implementation strategies, cybersecurity protocols, Geographic Information System (GIS) integration, and service level agreements. Respondents must provide comprehensive answers addressing their company overview, NG9-1-1 vision, technical capabilities, and approach to meeting the Commonwealth's emergency communication needs. The submission deadline is November 21, 2017, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, with responses to be emailed to EM-9-1-1@pa.gov using the subject line "PEMA ESInet/NGCS RFI".

The RFI does not explicitly outline specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations. PEMA indicates that this is an information-gathering exercise and will not result in a direct contract award, but rather aims to understand potential vendor capabilities and market solutions for the statewide NG9-1-1 infrastructure. While no specific budget range is mentioned, the comprehensive nature of the RFI suggests a potentially significant technology investment for modernizing emergency communication systems across Pennsylvania. The document implies that PEMA may conduct follow-up meetings with selected respondents to discuss their proposed solutions in more detail. The procurement appears focused on technical capability, standards compliance, and the ability to provide a scalable, secure, and interoperable emergency communication network that can serve diverse jurisdictional needs across the Commonwealth. Vendors will be evaluated on their ability to demonstrate comprehensive NG9-1-1 solutions that meet current and future emergency communication requirements.