University Of Maine Maineuniversity #2027-029

Statewide Carrier Ethernet and dark fiber transport services for Networkmaine

The University of Maine System is seeking statewide network transport services for Networkmaine and its MaineREN participants. - Government buyer: University of Maine System, Office of Strategic Procurement, on behalf of Networkmaine. - Services requested: - Carrier Ethernet connecting participating schools, libraries, government entities, research institutions, and other eligible organizations to University Points of Presence (PoPs). - Dark fiber connections from participating sites to a University PoP. - Scale and quantities: Approximately 900 eligible K–20 and other participating entities may be served. Exact sites, circuit capacities, strand counts, and pricing quantities are specified in cost exhibits not included in the provided materials. - Technical requirements: The attachment specifies at least 1 Gbps per school or library, four EVCs per site (tags 2, 3, 10, and 11) on one UNI, and no more than 5:1 oversubscription on aggregation circuits. A 10 Gbps Ethernet handoff is required for sites needing more than 1 Gbps. Reliability and availability expectations are 99.95%. - Notable preferences: Fiber transport is preferred, with University PoPs in Orono and Portland favored. Dark fiber generally calls for one or more strands per site; exact requirements are site-specific. ISP service is not required. Providers must coordinate site handoffs and accommodate diverse existing school and library equipment. - OEMs and vendors: No OEMs, vendors, or named service providers are identified in the provided materials.

Description

The University of Maine System, acting on behalf of Networkmaine, is seeking proposals for in-state data transport services for approximately 900 K–20 schools, libraries, state and local governments, and research institutions participating in MaineREN. Requested services include Carrier Ethernet and Dark Fiber connections between sites and University Points of Presence; fiber-optic transport is preferred, and internet service is not required. Sites are divided into two groups with services beginning July 1, 2027 or July 1, 2028, and respondents may bid on either or both groups. The initial contract terms are four years for Exhibit I sites and three years for Exhibit II sites, with four optional one-year renewals.

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