RFQ Blue Ridge Hotshots Fiber Optic Install, Coconino NF

The USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region is requesting sealed offers for fiber optic cable installation at Blue Ridge Ranger Station on the Coconino National Forest under a total small business set-aside (NAICS 237130), with offers due June 25, 2026. This is a firm-fixed-price construction contract; only small businesses are eligible to bid.

The scope covers installation of approximately 1,500 lineal feet of single-mode fiber optic cable (6 strand pairs to each of three buildings; 12 strand pairs total) establishing an outside plant fiber optic backbone connecting three buildings at the project site. Optional work includes installation of dedicated 15-amp electrical circuits with quadplex 20-amp 120-volt receptacles near new interior NEMA enclosures and testing of existing 24-strand single-mode fiber optic cable to industry standards. The contractor must begin performance within 10 calendar days after receiving the notice to proceed and complete all work within 90 calendar days thereafter; this performance period is mandatory and non-negotiable.

The site is located at Blue Ridge Ranger Station, 8738 Ranger Road, Happy Jack, Arizona 86024. A site visit is scheduled for May 26, 2026 at 12:00 PM Pacific Time and is highly encouraged but not mandatory. Requests for information are due June 10, 2026 at 2:00 PM Pacific Time via email to richard.ortega@usda.gov.

Award will be made to the offeror presenting the best value based on technical approach, price, and past performance. The technical approach will be evaluated on ability to meet schedule requirements and demonstration of thorough understanding of solicitation requirements. Past performance will be rated acceptable, neutral, or unacceptable. Pricing must be fair and reasonable and remain firm for 60 calendar days from the offer due date. No performance or payment bonds are required.