By FirstNet CEO Mike Poth
With November approaching, I wanted to update the public safety community on where we are in the process for awarding a contract for the Nationwide Public Safety Broadband Network (“Network”). While FirstNet is not able to discuss procurement specifics, I am pleased to report that we have made significant progress in the evaluation process and are moving closer to a contract award in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) .
What is the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)?
The FAR was established, and is continually updated, for the codification and publication of uniform acquisition policies and procedures for executive branch agencies. The FAR helps ensure consistency across government acquisition in cost, quality, and timeliness of the delivered product or service by maximizing the use of commercial products and services and by promoting competition. The FAR helps agencies minimize administrative operating costs; conduct business with integrity, fairness, and openness; and fulfill public policy objectives.
As an organization, FirstNet has accomplished many of the major tasks needed to award the contract for the deployment of the Network on behalf of public safety on or ahead of schedule. We developed and issued the Request for Proposals (RFP) in January, answered several hundred questions about its content, and received and evaluated proposals from offerors.
From the outset, FirstNet set an aggressive schedule for the procurement knowing that the timing of the award would depend on many factors given its significance and complexity, some of which are outside our control. This is a highly complex acquisition that requires the input and support of multiple agencies and entities; it is critical that all parties are thorough and follow the necessary processes so that FirstNet gets this right for public safety.
With all of this in mind, FirstNet will continue to execute the acquisition process outlined in the RFP beyond the November 1st target date for the award. We will continue to work diligently with our Federal partners to complete the RFP process in line with the FAR, while being as transparent as allowable.
FirstNet set a high bar for deploying this Network as quickly and judiciously as possible. Going forward, we remain committed to delivering the Network to the public safety community and the American public they serve as swiftly as possible.
Thank you,
Mike
