Qualified internet service providers and/or network owners are invited to submit a qualifications package (Phase 1) and if deemed qualified submit a proposal package (Phase 2) for consideration to partner with the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County (ACCGov/Owner), for design, construction and implementation of a County middle-mile ring or Backbone system. ACCGov is not actively pursuing operating a broadband network or offering service as a competitor to existing internet service providers. ACCGov’s interest is in collaborating with an internet service provider and/or network owner to ensure universal connectivity for ACCGov and Clarke County (County) through the development and construction of a Backbone system. The Backbone system is expected to provide connectivity at a minimum via an 864-count fiber optic cable, with availability for direct service to ACCGov facilities which will include fire stations, police stations, and pollution control, etc. In addition, the backbone fiber cable can provide fiber connectivity for existing and future cell tower locations, with available spare dark fibers are available for lease or expansion of future technologies.
