D--Fiber Optic Install at Seney NWR
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), under the Department of the Interior, has issued a Special Notice indicating its intent to award a sole source contract to Highline Internet for fiber optic cable installation at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Michigan. This project aims to provide high-speed internet to the new Headquarters, Visitor Center, and existing Maintenance Shop. While the intent is sole source, other responsible sources may submit capability statements for consideration. Responses are due by April 20, 2026.
Purpose & Requirement
Seney NWR requires the installation of underground single mode fiber optic cable to establish high-speed internet service. Highline Internet has been identified as the sole source provider due to being the only broadband service provider currently serving this geographic area and will also provide the ongoing monthly internet service.
Scope of Work
The project involves:
- Installing new direct-burial fiber optic cable from Highline's distribution line at highway M-77 to the new Headquarters and Visitor Center.
- Installing a secondary fiber run from the Headquarters building to the existing Maintenance Shop.
- Providing all necessary parts, including armored, direct-burial rated, singlemode custom fiber optic cable, LC UPC connectors, and protective conduit.
- Coordinating with FWS Infrastructure Management Division (IMD) and Refuge staff.
- Performing utility locates and avoiding disturbance of existing utilities.
- Obtaining FWS approval for the proposed fiber route and utilizing existing conduit where available.
- Ensuring all connections meet Highline service requirements and are compatible with Seney NWR equipment.
- Submitting all materials for FWS approval prior to installation.
- Providing a final as-built map showing exact fiber routing and burial depth.
Contract & Timeline
- Contract Opportunity Type: Special Notice (Notice of Intent to Sole Source)
- Justification: FAR 6.302-1 (Only One Responsible Source)
- Set-Aside: None specified
- Response Due: April 20, 2026, by 7:00 PM ET
- Published: April 6, 2026
- Place of Performance: Seney National Wildlife Refuge, 1674 Refuge Entrance Road, Seney, MI 49883
- Performance Period: Estimated May 1, 2026 (when ground conditions allow trenching) to June 12, 2026.
Special Instructions & Requirements
This is an informational notice and not a request for quote or solicitation. All responsible sources may submit a capability statement, proposal, or quotation for consideration. The Government retains discretion on whether to conduct a competitive acquisition based on responses. Contractors must be state-licensed general contractors with demonstrated experience in underground fiber optic cable installation and industry-standard termination practices. Deliverables include the fully installed system, testing results, ground restoration, and an as-built map.
Contact Information
- Primary Contact: Coleman, Justine
- Email: justine_pasiecnik@fws.gov
- Phone: 4132538287