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Project Update - 1/23/06

Throughout the course of the initiative, the project team has been in constant communication with the private sector community. Recently the project team received feedback regarding the RFP timeliness, specifying the need for more time on the provider’s part to submit a quality, thorough response.

In light of this feedback, the project team has decided to extend the RFP deadline by five weeks. The new deadline for RFP responses is now March 7, 2006. Although this is a minor delay, the project team believes the end result will be higher quality responses from the private sector.

While the providers certainly could have had a response prepared by the end of January, this extra time allows them to solidify their partnerships and thoroughly discuss the technical components of the RFP. The project team will now be in a better position to select a provider who can deliver the highest quality service to Washtenaw County residents.

This delay impacts the 2006 Wireless Washtenaw timelines in the following manner (projected timelines):

  • March 7, 2006 – Deadline for RFP responses
  • March – Evaluate RFP responses
  • April – Tentatively select provider
  • May, June, July – Three geographically dispersed pilots throughout Washtenaw County
  • July – Evaluate pilot programs
  • August – Award Wireless Washtenaw Contract
  • September – Begin county-wide deployment
Master Participation Agreement

While awaiting RFP responses, the project team will continue to work with the local units of government on the Master Participation Agreement. This agreement sets the foundation for the use of public assets in exchange for wireless service. Municipalities who wish to participate in the project are required to sign this agreement.  

The project team continues to receive additional feedback and suggestions from the local units and their legal counsel. The project team expects an updated agreement incorporating this feedback to be available in the coming weeks. When complete, the new agreement will be submitted to the local units for their consideration.

shim