Bluebird Network seeking bids to complete fiber project

Bluebird Network, a communications infrastructure provider and operator of more than 11,000 miles of fiber and two data centers, is seeking bids from vendors to complete the Engineering Design and/or Environmental Assessments associated with the project. 

Vendors are invited to visit the Bluebird RFP submission website to submit a proposal associated with the fiber build, supported by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Middle Mile Grant award. RFP responses are due no later than April 4, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. CDT. 

Bluebird Network seeking bids

Vendors can download the RFP Template, KMZ layer of proposed fiber route, Master Construction Agreement and Professional Services Agreement as well as a collection of live Frequently Asked Questions at BluebirdNetwork.com/open-request-for-proposals/. 

A contract will be awarded based on RFP evaluation criteria including the ability to meet slated requirements, customer references, solution approach, price and additional factors detailed in the RFP and other supporting documents. 

The fiber build will have uniformly placed Point of Presence (PoP) locations along route corridors and is planned to span 330 miles through Missouri and 164 miles through Oklahoma. 

"These projects will extend middle-mile infrastructure to unserved and underserved areas and promote broadband resiliency by creating new and alternative connections across the Midwest. These projects will also increase competition, reduce costs and spur the rapid deployment of last-mile services in rural areas," said John Nolan, Bluebird Network’s Chief Development Officer.

Nolan added that the new routes have the potential to grow and strengthen fixed wireless and cellular connectivity, including advancements in new wireless technologies that are supported by fiber.