Transmission Line and Antenna Replacement and Installation for KXNE-FM

The State of Nebraska, Department of Administrative Services, Materiel Division, State Purchasing Bureau is conducting a one-time purchase contract (ITB Number 6781 OF) for transmission line and antenna replacement and installation for KXNE-FM located in Thayer County. The procurement seeks a qualified contractor to provide comprehensive services including installation of a new transmission line, removal of the existing FM antenna, installation of a new FM antenna, and associated shipping. Key deliverables include technical specifications for transmission equipment, tower modifications, and complete installation services. The solicitation required electronic bid submissions via Sharefile, with the final bid opening date set for May 26, 2023, at 2:00 PM Central Time. The evaluation criteria focus on selecting the lowest responsible bidder, with the State reserving the right to reject any or all bids and potentially award the contract on an item-by-item or lump sum basis. Bidders were required to provide detailed technical capabilities, comply with state procurement requirements, and submit comprehensive pricing for all specified line items.

The solicitation indicates potential preference for Nebraska resident bidders and disabled veteran-owned businesses, suggesting some set-aside considerations for local and disadvantaged enterprises. Three vendors submitted competitive bids: Precision Communications LLC, Electronics Research, Inc., and National Tower Controls, with total bid amounts ranging from $225,108.06 to $369,505.00. The State ultimately issued a Notification of Intent to Award to National Tower Controls. No specific incumbent vendor was identified, and the contract does not appear to have exclusive provisions, allowing the State flexibility to contract with alternative vendors for similar goods in the future. Delivery timeframes for the proposed work ranged from 90 to 120 days after receipt of order, with payment terms of net 30 days. The procurement documents confirmed that no prevailing wage requirements were applicable, and the bidder would not be responsible for obtaining FCC or local jurisdiction permits, simplifying the procurement process for potential contractors.