Rifle (RFL) Substation Communications Tower

The contract is for the construction of a communications tower at the Rifle Substation to replace the aging and failing federally owned Rifle Microwave (RFM) building. The primary goal is to transfer microwave traffic currently handled by the RFM to the Rifle Substation, ensuring continued reliable communication. Due to terrain obstacles, a direct microwave link between the Rifle Substation and Sunlight Peak cannot be established without a tower structure, so the new tower will enable a clear microwave path between the two sites, eliminating the need to rebuild the outdated RFM facility. This solution avoids unnecessary capital expenses while maintaining critical communications infrastructure. The solicitation is issued under number 89503226RWA000024 by the Department of Energy’s Western-Rocky Mountain Region office located in Loveland, Colorado. It falls under NAICS code 237130, indicating it is for communications construction services. The opportunity was posted on June 30, 2026, with responses due by July 31, 2026. The point of contact for inquiries is John W. Pratt, reachable via email and phone. The work will be performed at the Rifle Substation and is intended to ensure uninterrupted microwave connectivity as part of the energy department’s broader communications network modernization efforts.