PRE-QUALIFY VENDORS WHO CAN PROVIDE TELECOMMUNICATIONS OUTSIDE PLANT SERVICES IN SELECTED ZONES

The Iowa Communications Network is seeking to pre-qualify three vendors in each of five geographic zones across the State of Iowa to provide telecommunications outside plant services. The scope of work includes underground fiber optic cable construction, boring, plowing, aerial work, and splicing, as well as emergency response for urgent repairs and relocations. Vendors must demonstrate expertise in fiber splicing and infrastructure services, providing detailed information on equipment inventory, personnel capabilities, and office locations. Proposals are due by November 6, 2026, and must include a comprehensive set of attachments, including a unit price sheet for labor and materials, a zone bid form, and vendor qualification documents. Award selection is managed by an evaluation committee and the Executive Director of the ICN, following a mandatory compliance gate. Once pre-qualified, work is assigned based on project value: projects under 5,000 dollars are awarded at ICN discretion, those between 5,000 and 50,000 dollars are generally awarded to the lowest calculated cost or best operational value, and projects exceeding 50,000 dollars may require formal project-specific quotes or separate competitive bidding. The contract allows for an initial term with the possibility of five additional one-year extensions. Performance is monitored through site visits and testing, with final acceptance contingent upon the approval of as-built drawings and successful system testing. Vendors may be required to post performance bonds for individual jobs valued at 5,000 dollars or more.