E-Rate Network Equipment

The City of Hartford is soliciting proposals to supply and install E‑Rate‑eligible network equipment for its public‑school and library systems. The scope includes wireless access‑point licenses, POE‑capable multi‑gigabit switches, APC smart‑UPS units, and structured CAT‑6a cabling services across more than 80 sites, with installation, testing, labeling, and warranty support. Vendors must be authorized resellers, hold an E‑Rate SPIN and FCC “Green Light” status, meet MWBE utilization goals, and provide extensive insurance and bonding. The contract runs for one year beginning July 1 2026, with possible extensions. • Equipment: 2,200 Meraki AP licenses, 315 POE switches (plus power supplies, licenses, DAC cables, SFP modules), 80 APC Smart‑UPS units, and extensive CAT‑6a cabling drops and patch cords. • Mandatory compliance: 10 % bid bond, 100 % performance/payment bonds for awards > $50 k, $1 M insurance limits, living‑wage rates, E‑Rate documentation (SPIN, FRN, Green Light). • Evaluation factors: price (percent off list), experience with schools/libraries, MWBE subcontracting, references, SLA, and implementation timeline starting July 1 2026.