Fiber Optic Construction and Related Services

Baltimore County, Maryland's Division of Procurement Services is seeking qualified firm(s) to furnish fiber optic emergency maintenance, construction, and locating services for approximately 250 miles of existing fiber throughout the county under an RFP due January 14, 2027, with a mandatory pre-proposal meeting on December 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. via WebEx. Baltimore County pursues a 30 percent participation goal (not a set-aside) for minority and women business enterprises as prime contractors or subcontractors per Executive Order 2022-005.

The scope encompasses 24/7 emergency maintenance with 30-minute response times, fiber splicing and testing, underground and aerial cable installation, conduit and vault construction, and facility locating services compliant with excavation notice requirements. All work must comply with Maryland state regulations, the National Electrical Code, National Electric Safety Code, Bellcore standards, OSHA regulations, and applicable local construction codes. Contractors must maintain storage facilities within Baltimore County at no charge to the county, provide quarterly inventory reports, demonstrate financial responsibility and adequate equipment and manpower, and submit background checks for personnel with access to county data. General Liability Insurance must carry minimum limits of $1,000,000, Automobile Liability Insurance $1,000,000, and Workers' Compensation coverage with Baltimore County named as additional insured.

The contract term is three years from execution, with the county retaining the right to renew for up to five additional one-year options. Pricing must remain firm for one year from the contract's effective date; subsequent renewal terms may allow escalation based on the Consumer Price Index or up to 5 percent maximum increase, whichever is lower. Evaluation criteria prioritize organizational skills and service proficiency, demonstrated experience and technical qualifications, fiscal and administrative structure, references, completeness of response, MWBE participation, and cost. Questions are due January 5, 2027 at 4:00 p.m.