BEAD NEPA Final Propsal Submission

Background
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is issuing guidance for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This program aims to ensure that every resident has access to reliable, high-speed broadband connections. The guidance assists Eligible Entities in submitting quality Final Proposals that align with the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).

Work Details
Eligible Entities must submit a Final Proposal that includes:

1) A narrative describing deployment plans and outcomes from the Subgrantee Selection Process;

2) Five CSV data attachments detailing subgrantees, deployment projects, locations, no BEAD locations, and community anchor institutions;

3) Additional required documents such as accountability documents and environmental plans;

4) A Final Proposal Funding Request (FPFR) that includes a project plan/narrative and consolidated budget form.

The proposal must demonstrate compliance with BEAD program objectives and include specific details about how unserved and underserved locations will be addressed.

Period of Performance
The Eligible Entity has 90 days from the issuance of the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice to complete necessary actions including public posting of the Final Proposal for a minimum of 7 days before submission.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed in various geographic locations as determined by the Eligible Entity's approved Challenge Process results.

Bidder Requirements
Eligible Entities must be legal entities authorized to conduct business in Illinois. They must comply with various certifications including not being in default on educational loans, not having felony convictions barring contract eligibility, and ensuring compliance with federal labor laws. Additionally, they must certify adherence to environmental regulations and confirm that no foreign-made equipment was produced using forced or child labor.