Equinix Cross-Connect Services

The contract calls for the establishment and maintenance of physical fiber cross-connects within Equinix data centers to facilitate secure, high-performance interconnection with cloud service providers and Internet2, enabling seamless data exchange and network interoperability. These cross-connects are critical for supporting the Department of Health and Human Services' digital infrastructure requirements by providing direct, low-latency access to essential cloud and research networks without relying on public internet pathways. The work must be performed at the designated location in Bethesda, Maryland, with precise technical standards required to ensure reliability, scalability, and compliance with federal connectivity benchmarks. The contract is classified as a subcontract under NAICS code 238990, indicating it involves specialized telecommunications infrastructure services rather than general construction. It was posted on April 28, 2026, with a strict response deadline of April 29, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., suggesting a highly time-sensitive procurement process. The solicitation is managed by the Omas Strategic Buying Center - Information Technology under the Department of Health and Human Services, reflecting the agency’s focus on modernizing its network architecture for healthcare data sharing, research collaboration, and operational efficiency. The physical nature of the services requires qualified vendors with proven experience in data center cross-connect installations and ongoing maintenance within Equinix facilities.