Public Private Partnership for Broadband Infrastructure Deployment

The Town of Frisco, located in Colorado's Sedgwick County, is seeking expressions of interest from qualified Internet Service Providers (ISPs) or network infrastructure firms for a Public-Private Partnership (P3) to develop a comprehensive Fiber-to-the-Premise (FTTP) broadband network. The procurement is structured as a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at identifying a partner to construct and operate a high-speed, symmetrical gigabit network serving residences, businesses, municipal facilities, and community anchor institutions. The project is designed in multiple phases, with Phase 1A focusing on municipal facilities in 2025, followed by Phases 2-4 targeting approximately 4,100 addresses within town limits, and Phases 5-8 potentially extending to an additional 1,500 addresses. Potential partners must provide detailed information on technical approaches, business models, customer offerings, and digital inclusion strategies. The RFI response deadline is May 23, 2025, at 5:00 PM, with potential follow-up meetings to explore partnership models and next steps. A 2024 feasibility study by Bonfire Broadband revealed that existing providers fall short of community expectations, necessitating this innovative procurement approach.

The Town of Frisco has not specified explicit set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations, but the RFI suggests openness to various P3 models and encourages innovative solutions for broadband deployment. The town is prepared to offer supportive infrastructure coordination, including permitting assistance, marketing support, and potential colocation opportunities. Construction cost estimates are substantial, with $8.9 million projected for Phases 2-4 and an additional $5.5 million for Phases 5-8, covering a diverse mix of short-term rentals, second homes, primary residences, and business units. The existing infrastructure includes Town-owned fiber optic network infrastructure, which will serve as a foundation for the expanded broadband service. While no incumbent vendors are specifically mentioned, the town emphasizes a focus on equitable access and future-proof infrastructure. The procurement seeks a partner capable of delivering comprehensive broadband services that significantly improve upon current connectivity standards, with a strong emphasis on technological innovation and community benefit.