P25 radio network consulting services

Hood County, Texas is seeking an independent consultant to provide P25 Land Mobile Radio (LMR) network consulting services through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ2026-03) issued on January 12, 2026. The primary objective is to obtain vendor-neutral, technically sound analysis and strategic guidance regarding the county's existing and future radio communications infrastructure. Specifically, the consultant will evaluate three potential alternatives: continuing participation in the Granbury Regional Radio Network, transitioning to a county-owned network, or exploring participation in a neighboring regional radio network. The RFQ requires submissions by February 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM, with evaluation criteria totaling 100 points across five key areas: firm qualifications and P25 system background (25 points), technical qualifications of key personnel (30 points), relevant experience (15 points), project understanding (20 points), and response clarity (10 points). Deliverables will include written findings, recommendations, and a strategic roadmap comprehensible to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The consultant's work is strictly advisory and cannot involve equipment sales, installation, maintenance, or operation.

The procurement does not specify set-aside designations or restrictions on respondent types, but requires comprehensive documentation including a cover sheet, general terms and conditions, insurance requirements acknowledgment, vendor references, and various certifications. An initial evaluation report by Avistas Business Engineering indicates potential infrastructure challenges, with the current Granbury Regional Radio Network experiencing operational limitations and single points of failure. The existing infrastructure serves twenty-three county agencies across Hood, Erath, and Somervell Counties, with potential system upgrade or replacement costs estimated around four million dollars. Insurance requirements for the awarded vendor include statutory workers' compensation, commercial general liability with $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate limits, and commercial automobile liability with $500,000 per occurrence limits. The County reserves the right to reject vendors found suspended or ineligible, and will conduct contract negotiations with the selected firm to determine precise service costs.