Network switches

Dougherty County School System in Albany, Georgia issued an RFQ for network switches and related components funded through the FCC E-Rate program, with proposals due March 16, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. EST and a questions deadline of March 6, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. EST. The procurement supports 34 eligible entities including charter schools, charter school districts, pre-K programs, and public schools across the district.

The scope includes 96 Cisco Catalyst 9300 48-port switches with associated power supplies, network modules, stacking cables, and software licenses. The district prefers Cisco equipment for compatibility but will evaluate equivalent options if vendors demonstrate interoperability and comparable features in accordance with E-Rate program rules. Installation and initial configuration are explicitly excluded. All deliveries are FOB destination to the DCSS central warehouse at 601 Flint Avenue, Albany, Georgia 31701, with freight costs borne by the vendor.

The contract period runs July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024. All pricing must be firm for this period. The procurement is contingent on securing Federal Universal Service Fund (E-Rate) supportive funding. Award selection prioritizes cost-effectiveness with price as the primary evaluation factor.

Vendors must submit sealed proposals in one original, one copy, and one electronic copy on thumb drive. Required certifications include DJEA Policy Statement of Assurance, debarment certification, non-collusion certification, Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act affidavits, and a valid FCC Service Provider ID Number (SPIN). All vendors must demonstrate E-Verify compliance, non-debarment status, and adherence to Title VI, Title IX, Equal Employment Opportunity Act, and Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. The district reserved the right to reject any or all bids.

The contract was subsequently awarded to The Cumberland Group for $838,944.