“FirstNet will continue to execute the acquisition process outlined in the RFP beyond the Nov. 1 target date for the award,” said FirstNet CEO Mike Poth in a blog.
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“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,” Poth said. “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.”
Poth said FirstNet officials can’t discuss procurement specifics, but they have “made significant progress in the evaluation process and are moving closer to a contract award in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)."
"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," he said.
Poth said 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.
FirstNet released the 25-year RFP with a $100 billion ceiling in January, with the deadline for submissions May 31. Last week, pdvWireless said it was informed by the contracting officer for the Department of the Interior (DOI) that pdvWireless is no longer being considered for the FirstNet nationwide public-safety broadband network award.
