1. Introduction The Hanover Public School District (HPSD) seeks proposals from qualified vendors for a building-to-building WAN connectivity connecting Clearview Elementary School located at 801 Randolph Street, Hanover, PA 17331 and Hanover Public School District Administration Office, located at 403 Moul Avenue, Hanover, PA 17331. This project aims to establish a dedicated, high-speed link to enhance the District's communications, internet access, and internal network infrastructure. 2. Project Overview The District will review and consider all means of WAN connectivity including self provisioned fiber, services over third-party networks and leased lit fiber service. For a self-provisioned fiber solution, the project will involve the installation of a 2-mile fiber-optic cable connecting the two schools. The fiber will be connected to existing telecom/electric poles, and the district prefers an aerial fiber run. 3. Scope of Work Non-fiber connectivity proposals, including, but not limited to: services over third-party networks and leased lit fiber services must be scalable to 10 Gbps connectivity. Self-provisioned fiber solution proposals, include the following tasks: Design: A complete design for the fiber network, including route planning, utility coordination, and pole attachment. Installation: Trenching, conduit installation, and fiber laying to cover the 2-mile distance between the schools, with the fiber connected to the telecom/electric poles. Fiber Specifications: OS2 single-mode fiber with 12 strands (6 pairs) minimum for future scalability. Testing: End-to-end fiber testing for connectivity, signal strength, and throughput. Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance, including routine inspections, emergency repairs, and a service-level agreement (SLA) ensuring rapid response times for any issues. 4. Vendor Qualifications To be considered for this project, vendors must meet the following qualifications: • Proven experience in installing and managing high-speed building-to-building connectivity. • For fiber optic connectivity; knowledge of aerial and underground fiber installation techniques, including pole attachment and right-of-way management. • E-Rate eligibility, with the ability to provide E-Rate eligible pricing. • Ability to comply with local permitting and regulatory requirements. 5. Technical Specifications for fiber optic proposals Fiber Cable: • Type: OS2 single-mode fiber • Strands: Minimum of 12 strands (6 pairs) • Installation: aerial fiber connected to telecom/electric poles. Installation Requirements: • Adherence to National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) for pole attachments. • Fiber installation should avoid obstructions and meet all safety and regulatory requirements. Non-fiber connectivity proposals, including, but not limited to: services over third-party networks and leased lit fiber services must be scalable to 10 Gbps connectivity. 6. Proposal Submission Requirements All proposals must include the following: • Detailed project plan with milestones. • Design proposal, including a route map and installation plan. • Itemized cost breakdown for fiber installation, materials, and special construction. • Proposed maintenance plan and ongoing costs. • Evidence of previous successful fiber installations of similar scope. • E-Rate eligible pricing information, as required. • Proof of required licenses, certifications, and insurance. 7. Evaluation Criteria Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria: • Price: The overall cost of the project, including installation and ongoing maintenance. • Technical Merit: The quality of the design and technical specifications. • Vendor Experience: Relevant experience in similar projects. • Timeline: Ability to complete the project within the designated timeline. • E-Rate Eligibility: Compliance with E-Rate funding requirements. 8. Timeline • RFP Release Date: February 3, 2026 • Mandatory Walkthrough: February 24, 2026 • Proposal Due Date: March 9, 2026 • Project Completion: June 1, 2027 • Service Activation: June 15, 2027 9. Budget and Funding The project is eligible for E-Rate funding. Vendors should provide E-Rate eligible pricing for all components of the network. Special construction costs may also be eligible for E-Rate funding. Vendors are required to submit detailed pricing that complies with E-Rate guidelines. 10. Maintenance and Support The selected vendor will be responsible for maintaining the fiber network for a period of 5 years post-installation. The maintenance agreement must include: • Routine inspections and repairs. • Emergency response for fiber cuts or service disruptions. • SLA with a maximum response time of 2 hours for critical issues. 11. Legal and Compliance Requirements The selected vendor will need to comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including those related to: • Permits and Rights of Way. • National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) for aerial installations. • E-Rate requirements, including documentation and reporting for funding eligibility. • Insurance: Vendors must carry the necessary insurance to cover liabilities related to the installation and maintenance of the fiber network. 12. Proposal Submission Instructions Please submit your proposal by March 9, 2026 to: • Contact Person: Troy Wentz • Email Address: twentz@hanoverpublic.org • Physical Address: 403 Moul Ave, Hanover, PA 17331 All proposals must be in compliance with the specifications outlined in this RFP. Vendors should provide any additional information or alternate suggestions that might improve the project’s success.