Lease space on water tank for cell communication equipment

The Oak Bluffs Water District (OBWD) in Dukes County, Massachusetts, is seeking proposals from federally licensed communication companies and regulated public utilities to lease space on a water storage tank located at 96 Alpine Avenue in Oak Bluffs. The procurement is a non-exclusive lease opportunity for installing wireless antennas and related communication equipment on an 82-ft tall standpipe tank. Key deliverables include the installation of communication infrastructure without disrupting existing systems and maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the water tank. Bidders must submit one original and five copies of their proposal, accompanied by a $5,000 security deposit, by May 30, 2025, at 11:00 am. The initial contract term is five years, with options for up to three additional five-year terms, potentially extending the lease to a total of 20 years. Evaluation criteria will likely include the comprehensiveness of technical documentation, structural engineering drawings, FCC licenses, financial stability, and compliance with local zoning and regulatory requirements.

The procurement appears to be open to all federally licensed communication companies and regulated public utilities without specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Successful bidders must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including $2 million in general liability and automobile insurance, and a $100,000 performance bond. The minimum annual base rent is $65,000, with an automatic annual inflation factor of at least 3 percent. Proposers must be prepared to potentially relocate equipment if the water district constructs a separate communications tower. The lease requires detailed documentation, including structural engineering drawings, FCC licenses, references, and financial statements. While no incumbent vendors are mentioned, the existing water tank infrastructure will serve as the primary location for equipment installation. The total potential contract value could range from $325,000 to $1.3 million over the possible 20-year lease term, depending on renewal options and annual rent adjustments.