FirstNet Issues RFP for Deployment of Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network, Creating Significant Contract Opportunities for All Telecommunications Companies

Last month, the federal First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) issued its long-awaited Request for Proposals (RFP) for the deployment of the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network, a wireless network designed to facilitate communication and crisis response by federal, regional, state, local and tribal first responders and other public safety personnel. The network will cover all 50 states, as well as the territories and the District of Columbia, and is funded via an initial Congressional outlay of $7 billion.

FirstNet will award only one contract, requiring prime bidders to assemble large teams of telecommunications service providers and local vendors throughout the nation. With a March 17, 2016, deadline for submission of capability statements, prime bidders are sprinting to assemble their own national networks of telecommunications providers. After reviewing capability statements, FirstNet will select the best-qualified bidders to submit formal proposals, due April 29, 2016.

Fredrikson & Byron’s Government Contracts & Grants Practice Group has a dedicated team ready to help your company participate in the FirstNet RFP process. Please contact us for assistance on FirstNet or any other matters related to government contracting or telecommunications.