Optical Fiber Network Assessment and Mapping Services for 200 Linear Miles

The Town of Cary has issued a solicitation (RFP 354-MI26-10) seeking qualified vendors to provide comprehensive assessment and mapping services for its municipal optical fiber network, which spans approximately 200 linear miles within North Carolina. The primary objective of this contract is to evaluate the current condition of the fiber infrastructure, identify maintenance needs, and produce detailed GIS-compatible mapping using advanced technologies such as ESRI GIS and centimeter-level geospatial accuracy methods. The scope involves thorough field inspections of both aerial and underground fiber assets, performance testing including OTDR traces, and photographic documentation to develop a comprehensive assessment report with prioritized recommendations. Deliverables include high-resolution maps, raw data packages, anomaly listings, and detailed asset documentation. The assessment supports network optimization, documentation improvement, and future infrastructure expansion planning. Proposals are due by December 23, 2025, with questions accepted until November 19, 2025. The contract term extends until June 30, 2026, with an option for two additional one-year renewals. Evaluation of proposals involves a weighted scoring system emphasizing the data dictionary for field data acquisition, previous experience, project understanding, approach, and cost, among other criteria. Award is based on a best value trade-off through a ranked and negotiated selection process. The contract includes compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including, if federal funds are used, provisions such as the Davis-Bacon Act and Equal Employment Opportunity regulations. Vendors must adhere to North Carolina statutes concerning governing law, dispute resolution, conflicts of interest, and verification of work authorization. Quality control requirements mandate rigorous validation of deliverables prior to submission, and inspections may be performed at the contractor’s site with acceptance determined by the Town after review. Payment terms specify submission of invoices to the Town of Cary’s Accounts Payable office with payment made within 30 days of acceptable invoice receipt. Proposals must be submitted electronically in PDF format through the North Carolina Electronic Vendor Portal, and the Town encourages participation from minority and women business enterprises but does not require socioeconomic certifications. Key personnel qualifications, safety plans including maintenance of traffic, and adherence to industry standards (OSHA, NEC, NESC, TIA/EIA, ANSI, IEC/ITU-T, FOA) are integral to the contract requirements. The agreement allows termination by the Town for convenience with ten days’ notice and contains provisions for amendments, insurance, and nondiscrimination, making this a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing the Town of Cary’s digital communication infrastructure.