RFP026-37 Network Upgrade & Servicing

The City of Meriden, located in New Haven County, Connecticut, is seeking qualified vendors to execute a comprehensive network infrastructure upgrade through RFP026-37. The procurement focuses on supplying, installing, and configuring Cisco Meraki network equipment, including 13 MR-series access points (9 indoor, 4 outdoor), a Cisco Catalyst C9200/C9300M switch, a Tripp Lite 42U rack enclosure, and structured CAT6 cabling with a 48-port patch panel. Key deliverables include site surveys, design recommendations, equipment installation, trenching, and configuration of network equipment to the Meriden Meraki cloud platform, supporting three SSIDs: Meriden Guest, Meriden Local, and Eduroam. The project requires delivering symmetrical 1 Gbps+ connectivity to support approximately 3,000 users across the building and adjacent plaza. Evaluation criteria are weighted as follows: technical capability and Cisco Meraki solution experience (30 points), cost-effectiveness (30 points), project requirement understanding (20 points), and support service quality (20 points). Critical dates include a question submission deadline of January 14, 2026, at 4:00 p.m., and a response submission deadline of January 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with electronic submissions required through the City eProcurement Portal.

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must maintain appropriate state licenses and certifications, provide comprehensive insurance coverage, and comply with municipal, state, and federal affirmative action and equal employment opportunity practices. While no incumbent vendors are identified, the procurement requires seamless integration with existing Meriden network infrastructure, specifically the Meraki cloud platform. The project includes detailed infrastructure specifications such as two redundant fiber pairs (LC to LC), APC Smart-UPS 3000VA units, and provisions for historical building preservation during installation. Though a specific budget range is not disclosed, the complexity of the network upgrade—involving 13 access points, advanced switching infrastructure, structured cabling, and cloud management—suggests a significant investment. The City reserves the right to reject any proposals and negotiate contract terms, with payment expected no less than thirty days following service completion.