eRate 2026 Fiber Data Cabling Upgrade Project

Grand Rapids Public Schools in Kent County, Michigan is issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for materials and services to upgrade fiber optic data cabling systems at four school facilities: City High/Middle School, Coit Academy, Westwood Middle School, and CA Frost Elementary School. The project requires vendors to replace existing multi-mode fiber optic cables connecting Main Distribution Frames (MDFs) to Intermediate Distribution Frames (IDFs) using CommScope LazrSPEED OM4 12-pair/24-strand fiber specifications with plenum-rated innerduct throughout all areas. Deliverables include complete installation, termination, testing, and disposal of existing cabling, with contractors responsible for coring, fire stopping, grounding, as-built AutoCAD drawings, detailed cable record spreadsheets, and comprehensive end-to-end testing at 850nm wavelength using light source and power meter equipment. Vendors must provide itemized equipment lists, implementation schedules, three references for similar installations, detailed service rate information for on-site technicians, and evidence of manufacturer certification for a minimum 20-year warranty on the entire channel. Key qualifications include proof of Service Provider Identification Number (SPIN) for eRate compliance, comprehensive insurance coverage (Commercial General Liability of $1,000,000 per occurrence/$3,000,000 aggregate, Business Auto Liability of $1,000,000 combined single limit, and Excess/Umbrella coverage of $1,000,000), criminal history record checks for all personnel, and demonstrated experience with similar fiber optic installations. Critical dates include the Intent to Bid deadline of February 17, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST, a mandatory site walk-through on February 16, 2026 beginning at 8:00 AM, a question period running through February 27, 2026, and final proposals due March 6, 2026 at 10:00 AM EST via the Bonfire procurement portal; all proposals must remain valid for a minimum of 180 calendar days, and installation cannot commence before April 1, 2026 with no invoices permitted prior to July 1, 2026.

The procurement does not indicate any specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises or restrictions on organization types eligible to respond. All bidders must execute mandatory compliance certifications including a Debarment and Suspension Certification confirming no suspension or debarment by any Federal agency within the past three years, an Iran Business Relationship Affidavit certifying non-classification as an "Iran linked business" under Michigan's Iran Economic Sanctions Act, a Sworn Statement of Familial Relationship disclosing any conflicts with Grand Rapids Public Schools Board members or the Superintendent, and a notarized non-collusion affidavit. The project is eRate-eligible, requiring vendors to demonstrate familiarity with E-Rate program rules and include all administrative costs necessary for E-Rate eligibility in their proposals; vendors must respond within three days to any Program Integrity Assurance inquiries during audits. No incumbent vendors or existing contractors are identified in the procurement materials. The District does not pay sales or use tax, and vendors must include all applicable taxes, fees, and permits in their pricing; the contract term shall be not less than one year from the effective date with a 12-month warranty covering parts, labor, and shipping, and the District will retain 10 percent of the contract value until final acceptance. No specific budget range or award value is disclosed in the available procurement documents.