D--Network Connectivity Fiber Network Backbone

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) is seeking a contractor to provide a high‑capacity fiber‑optic network backbone that connects its research facilities. The government will not purchase or own any fiber or equipment; instead, the contractor is expected to lease dark fiber from existing providers and deliver the required connectivity without constructing new conduits. The effort includes design, procurement (leasing), installation, testing, and ongoing maintenance of the fiber network to meet NCI’s data‑transfer performance standards. • Scope: Lease and provision of dark fiber, network design, installation, testing, and maintenance. • No new conduit or dredging required – use existing infrastructure. • Contractual relationship is for services only; the government retains no ownership of the fiber. • Requires compliance with federal telecommunications standards and security requirements. • Delivery timeline and performance milestones to be defined in the final contract.