Pre-qualify vendors who can provide telecommunications outside plant services in selected zones

The Iowa Telecommunications and Technology Commission, operating the Iowa Communications Network, is seeking proposals to pre-qualify vendors for telecommunications outside plant services across five state zones, with proposals due November 6, 2026, and a question deadline of October 5. The ICN intends to pre-qualify a maximum of three vendors per zone; individual vendors may receive awards for up to three zones.

The scope encompasses underground, aerial, and maintenance construction for fiber optic and telecommunications infrastructure, including directional boring, direct-bury plowing, aerial installation, utility locating, splicing, and related OSP services. Vendors must submit unit rates on Attachment 7 for services across Rural, Residential, and Urban classifications, covering labor, materials, mobilization, and specialized tasks including fusion splicing and GPS data collection. All work must comply with OSHA requirements, include site restoration, and meet ICN material specifications.

The contract is available to all state institutions, universities, schools, and political subdivisions with no guaranteed minimum work volume. Project assignment for work valued between $5,000 and $50,000 is determined by lowest calculated cost, subject to ICN discretion on vendor capacity, geographic proximity, and past performance. For projects under $5,000, ICN retains full discretion regardless of pre-qualification. Projects over $50,000 may be solicited separately or competitively re-bid.

New vendors enter probationary status until satisfactorily completing up to three jobs, then move to approved status or the Vendor of Last Resort List. The contract term is initial with potential extension through five additional one-year periods by mutual written agreement. Vendors must maintain general liability coverage of $3 million aggregate, automobile liability of $1 million, and performance bonds for projects valued at $5,000 or more. Liquidated damages are $100 per day for work completion delays and $50 per day for schedule failures. A three-strike vendor performance policy may result in contract rescission and one-year placement on the Vendor of Last Resort List.

Evaluation uses a 1,060-point scoring system assessing vendor qualifications, experience, equipment, personnel, locations, emergency response capabilities (including two-hour crew dispatch and 24/7 availability), and splicing capabilities. Written questions are due October 5, 2026, with responses by October 7.