Comptroller Seeks Vendor to Assess Local Government Broadband

The Comptroller of Public Accounts (CPA) is seeking a vendor with specialized knowledge to analyze local government broadband needs, planning and coordination.

Request for proposals 236a, titled “Broadband Network Planning and Design Consulting Services,” speaks to the state’s goal of connecting all residents to reliable broadband. It also highlights the need to connect the dots across Texas among communities that need resources for broadband planning and those who already have projects in process.

“Communities within the state are at different stages of broadband planning, with some communities needing no planning services, some needing one or a few services, and several communities needing all or nearly all services,” the RFP says.

The work to be done includes:

• Researching, identifying and reaching out to stakeholders
• Mapping broadband assets and providing data to the CPA
• Gap analysis and analysis of network, strategy and policy needs
• Finding and analyzing potential private-public partnerships
• Workforce development
• Identifying digital opportunities and digital literacy needs
• Feasibility assessments

The work requires fact-based research and information gathering about communities’ broadband networks, business planning, financial needs and development or outreach activities. In turn, the vendor will coordinate with and report findings to the comptroller’s office.

The agency since November 2020 has supported the Broadband Development Office (BDO), which was established under House Bill 5 during the 87th Legislature. It is charged with creating an accurate broadband map, awarding grants and monies, setting the threshold speed for broadband, providing community outreach and addressing barriers to expansion.

Responses are due Sept. 22, with a question due date of Aug. 23. This contract will be awarded in late October and run through Dec. 31, 2026.