North Star FSA Base Station Radio Upgrade

The Fairbanks North Star Borough (FNSB) is seeking qualified communications vendors to upgrade emergency radio dispatch systems for North Star Volunteer Fire Department stations through an Invitation for Bid (IFB No. 26020). The procurement involves comprehensive replacement of current base station radio equipment, specifically targeting four fire stations in North Pole, Alaska. The project requires delivering, installing, configuring, and testing new radio console equipment, with precise deliverables including 14 integrated IP station dispatch consoles, 4 IP radio gateways, 4 ethernet switches, and associated installation equipment. Bidders must provide unit pricing for all components, encompassing installation, configuration, testing, equipment removal, and shipping. The bid submission deadline is November 18, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., with a mandatory pre-bid conference scheduled for November 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The contractor is expected to complete delivery, installation, and configuration within 120 days after order receipt. Evaluation will focus on identifying the low responsive, responsible bidder meeting all specified requirements.

The procurement allows for local bidder preferences and includes an additive alternate for console wall mount hardware. Bidders must provide comprehensive insurance coverage, including $1,000,000 in commercial general liability, and submit various required documents such as a non-collusion affidavit and conflict of interest certification. The Fairbanks North Star Borough reserves the right to adjust quantities as necessary and offers potential participation to other Alaska governmental entities through the resulting contract. While no specific set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises are explicitly mentioned, the bid documents suggest an open competitive process. The project is funded through the Fairbanks North Star Borough, with the procurement aimed at modernizing emergency communications infrastructure. Though a specific budget range is not disclosed, the comprehensive equipment and installation requirements suggest a significant investment in upgrading the fire department's communication systems. The contract allows for potential cooperative purchasing, potentially increasing its overall value and attractiveness to communications equipment vendors.