Request for Proposals (RFP) for Broadband/Fiber Service Provider

Request for Proposals (RFP) for Broadband/Fiber Service Provider
Hopkins County Fiscal Court, Kentucky

I. Introduction
Hopkins County Fiscal Court, Kentucky, is seeking proposals from qualified high-speed broadband service providers to expand broadband access within unserved / underserved areas of the county. The Fiscal Court has allocated $1,000,000 toward this initiative and seeks a provider that can propose how many households can be served with these funds. The county aims to improve connectivity for residents and businesses to enhance economic development, education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.

II. Scope of Work
The selected provider will be responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and implementing broadband infrastructure within Hopkins County. The proposal should address the following:

1. Coverage Area – Must include coverage area map and the number of households in unserved / underserved areas that can be served with the $1,000,000 allocation. At least 90% of households served must be located in unserved or underserved areas as identified by the Kentucky Office of Broadband Development Availability Map.
2. Technology Solution – The type of broadband technology to be used (fiber, ariel, underground, etc.).
3. Project Timeline – Estimated timeline for project completion, including key milestones.
4. Cost Breakdown – Detailed budget explaining how funds will be allocated.
5. Speed and Reliability – Expected internet speeds, service levels with costs, and reliability metrics.
6. Matching Funds or Additional Investments – Any additional funding the provider can contribute.
7. Experience and Qualifications – Provider’s experience in similar broadband expansion projects.
8. Maintenance and Support – Plan for ongoing service, maintenance, and customer support.

 

III. Proposal Submission Requirements
Interested providers should submit a proposal that includes:

• A cover letter summarizing the company’s interest and qualifications.
• A detailed response to each component outlined in the Scope of Work.
• A project implementation plan with a timeline and milestones.
• References from similar broadband expansion projects.
• Any additional information that supports the proposal.

 

IV. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Number of Households Served (50%)
2. Experience and References (15%)
3. Technology and Service Reliability (10%)
4. Cost-Effectiveness and Budget Transparency (10%)
5. Project Timeline and Feasibility (10%)
6. Additional Investment or Matching Funds (5%)

 

V. Questions Concerning Request for Proposals

Questions concerning this Request for Proposals should be addressed in writing to Judge Executive Jack Whitfield. All questions should be submitted no less than 7 days prior to the deadline on.

VI. Submission Deadline and Contact Information
All proposals must be submitted by June 2^nd 2025 at 12:00 Noon. Proposals should be emailed or delivered to:

Judge Executive Jack Whitfield
Hopkins County Fiscal Court
56 North Main Street
Madisonville, KY. 42431
(270) 821-8294
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hopkins County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive any informalities, and accept the proposal that best serves the interests of the county. No person shall be excluded from participation in, denied benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in the implementation of this program on the grounds of race, color, national origin, or sex. The Hopkins County Fiscal Court is an Equal Opportunity Employer.