This web page is a mere facsimile of the official Request for Proposal (RFP) document. Vendors considering responding to this RFP must contact the University of Virginia Purchasing office at 804-924-4212 to obtain an official printed copy and to ensure that they receive information regarding changes and amendments. The printed version of the RFP of the only official version.
Virginia Education and Research Network (VERnet) Internet Connectivity Services
Request for Proposal Number GN-031296
March 12, 1996
Issued by
The Department of Purchasing and Materials Services
for
The Rector and Visitors
of
The University of Virginia
Table of Contents Page
I. General 1
II. Procurement Schedule 2
III. Issuance of Request for Proposal and Questions 2
IV. Proposal Deadline 3
V. Pre-Proposal Conference 3
VI. Oral Presentations and Negotiations 3
VII. Communications Between the University and the Firms Regarding This
Request for Proposal, The Firms' Proposals and This Procurement
Transaction 4
VIII. Formation of the Agreement with the Selected Firm 5
IX. Provisions Deemed Included in the Proposal 6
X. Rejection of Proposals 7
Attachment A - Background Discussion and Goals of the University 8
Attachment B - Basis of Selection 10
Attachment C - Contents of the Proposal 12
Attachment D - Preferred Contractual Provisions 16
Attachment E - Mandatory Contractual Provisions 20
Attachment F - Procedure for Resolution of Contractual Claims 23
Attachment G - Dial-Up Modem Services 25
Attachment H - Scope of Required Services 26
Attachment I - Mandatory Technical Specifications 28
Attachment J - Preferred Technical Specifications 30
Attachment K - Special Needs of Certain VERnet Member Sites 32
Attachment L - VERnet Membership Site List 34
Attachment M - VERnet Dial-Up Site Location List 43
Virginia Education and Research Network (VERnet) Internet Connectivity Services
Request for Proposal Number GN-031296
March 12, 1996
I. General
The Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia, a Virginia public corporation, (the "University"), seeks an experienced firm to assume operational responsibility for the Virginia Education and Research Network (VERnet). The scope of the goods or services required by the University is described in detail in Attachment H, Scope of Required Services; Attachment I, Mandatory Specifications; and Attachment J, Preferred Specifications.
This Request for Proposal is part of a competitive procurement process which helps to serve the University's best interests. It also provides firms with a fair opportunity for their services to be considered. The process of competitive negotiation being used in this case should not be confused with the different process of competitive sealed bidding. The latter process is usually used where the goods or services being procured can be described precisely and price is generally the determinative factor. With competitive negotiation, however, price is not required to be the determinative factor, although it may be, and the University has the flexibility it needs to negotiate with firms to arrive at a mutually agreeable relationship.
For ease of reference, each firm receiving this Request for Proposal is referred to as a "Firm" and the Firm selected to provide services for the University is referred to as the "Selected Firm." This Request for Proposal states the instructions for submitting proposals, the procedure and criteria by which a Firm may be selected, and the contractual terms by which the University proposes to govern the relationship between it and the Selected Firm.
It is the policy of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the University of Virginia to contribute to the establishment, preservation, and strengthening of small businesses and businesses owned by women and minorities, and to encourage their participation in State procurement activities. The Commonwealth and the University encourage Firms to provide for the participation of small businesses and businesses owned by women and minorities through partnerships, joint ventures, subcontracts, or other contractual opportunities.
II. Procurement Schedule
Here is a brief schedule for this procurement, specifying the important dates and milestones:
A. Issue Date of RFP 3/12/96
B. Pre-Proposal Conference 3/25/96
C. Deadline for Receipt of Proposals 4/08/96
D. Oral Presentations 4/19/96
E. Negotiations 4/22/96
F. Contract Award 4/30/96
III. Issuance of Request for Proposal and Questions
The Issuing Office for this Request for Proposal is:
Purchasing and Materials Services
University of Virginia
1001 North Emmet Street
P.O. Box 9008
Charlottesville, Virginia 22906
ATTENTION: Gary Nimax, C.P.M., Assistant Director
Telephone: (804) 924-4220
Fax : (804) 982-2690
TDD : (804) 982-HEAR
Any questions concerning this Request for Proposal will be directed to Gary Nimax at (804) 924-4220, and not to any other person at the University. The University
will determine whether any addenda should be issued as a result of any question or other matters raised.
IV. Proposal Deadline
All proposals must be received at the Issuing Office by 3:00 p.m., Monday, April 8, 1996. Five copies of each proposal must be provided. Each proposal will be provided in a single bound volume.
V. Pre- Proposal Conference
A conference for Firms receiving this Request for Proposal will be held on Monday, March 25, 1996 at 2:00 p.m. EST in Carruthers Hall Conference Room # 2, Charlottesville, Virginia. Attendance at this conference is advised if your Firm wishes to raise any questions in connection with this Request for Proposal. The University intends to present general information which may be helpful in the preparation of proposals and to offer Firms the opportunity to ask questions concerning this Request for Proposal. No Firm may have more than two representatives present at the Pre-Proposal Conference.
Firms planning to attend the Pre- Proposal Conference should notify RFP Coordinator at the Issuing Office [phone: (804) 924-1346] no later than 3:00 p.m. EST on Friday, March 22, 1996 of the names and titles of the individuals who will attend.
VI. Oral Presentations and Negotiations
An oral presentation by two or more Firms may be required after written proposals are received by the University. If the University requires such a presentation, the Issuing Office will schedule a time and place. Each Firm should be prepared to discuss and substantiate any of the areas of the proposal it submitted, its own qualifications for the services required and any other area of interest relative to its proposal. Oral presentations are scheduled for April 19, 1996.
Negotiations with two or more Firms will be conducted by the University on the Firms' financial proposals and proposed terms and conditions. Negotiations are scheduled for April 22, 1996.
VII. Communications Between the University and the Firms Regarding This Request for Proposal, the Firms' Proposals and this Procurement Transaction
A. Informal Communications
From the date of receipt of this Request for Proposal by each Firm until a binding contractual agreement exists with the Selected Firm and all other Firms have been notified, or when the University rejects all proposals, informal communications regarding this procurement will cease. Informal communications will include but not be limited to:
1. Requests from the Firms to any department(s) at the University, with the exception of Purchasing and Materials Services (see Section III, Issuance of Request for Proposal and Questions) for information, comments, speculation, etc.; and
2. Requests from any department(s) at the University, or any employee of the University, with the exception of Purchasing and Materials Services for information, comments, speculation, etc.
B. Formal Communications
From the date of receipt of this Request for Proposal by each Firm until a binding contractual agreement exists with the Selected Firm and all other Firms have been notified, or when the University rejects all proposals, all communications between the University and the Firms will be formal, or as provided for in this Request for Proposal, or as requested by Purchasing and Materials Services. Formal communications will include but not be limited to:
1. Pre-Proposal Conference;
2. Oral presentations;
3. Site visits, etc.
C. Any failure to adhere to the provisions set forth in (A) and (B) above may result in the rejection of any firm's proposal or cancellation of this Request for Proposal.
VIII. Formation of the Agreement with the Selected Firm
All proposals received will be carefully evaluated by the University. The University will then select two or more Firms deemed to be fully qualified and best suited among those submitting proposals, on the basis of evaluation criteria described in this Request for Proposal (refer to Attachment B, Basis of Selection). The University will then conduct negotiations with each of these Firms. After negotiations have been conducted with each Firm so selected, the University will select the Firm which, in its opinion, has made the best proposal. The University will award the contract to the Selected Firm by either of these methods:
A. Accept the proposal as written by issuing a written notice to the Selected Firm which refers to this Request for Proposal and accepts all or part of the proposal submitted in response to it and/or any addenda submitted during the negotiation process; or
B. Both parties will execute a mutually satisfactory written agreement based on this Request for Proposal, the proposal submitted, and the negotiations concerning these.
If the University determines in writing and in its sole discretion that only one Firm is fully qualified, or that one Firm is clearly more highly qualified than the others under consideration, it may decide to negotiate and award a contract to that Firm.
Because the University may use alternative (A) above, each firm must include in its written proposal all requirements, terms or conditions it may have, and should not assume that an opportunity will exist to add such matters after the proposal is submitted.
Firms should also note that, as described in the following Section IX, Provisions Deemed Included in the Proposal, certain matters will automatically be deemed part of the proposal.
IX. Provisions Deemed Included in the Proposal
The University will consider each proposal to include not only the matters expressly stated in the proposal as requested in Attachment C, Contents of the Proposal, but also other provisions which consist of two different types: those which are "mandatory" and cannot be changed by a Firm in its proposal; and those which are "preferred" by the University, but which a Firm may wish to alter by expressly and specifically so stating in its proposal.
The University includes mandatory provisions so that all proposals will be governed by the same basic contractual terms. The University encourages any Firm which feels that a mandatory provision is unreasonable to contact the University before proposals are due so the University can consider amending the provision. The University includes preferred provisions so that any difference between the Firm and the University's preferred contractual provisions can be considered during the University's evaluation of proposals.
A. Mandatory Provisions
Each proposal received by the University in response to this Request for Proposal will automatically be deemed to include the Firm's agreement to the provisions of (1) and (2) below. Although such provisions will govern the Firm's proposals as submitted, the University and one or more Firms may later mutually agree to amend such provisions, such as when additional time is needed to consider proposals, or when contractual negotiations or performance indicate that such amendments are appropriate.
1. The proposal constitutes an offer by the Firm which will remain open and irrevocable for a period of {Number} days [NOTE: This period is normally 120 days] from the deadline for submitting proposals stated in Section IV, Proposal Deadline above.
2. If selected by the University, the provisions governing the Firm's performance will include all the provisions of Attachment E, Mandatory Contractual Provisions.
B. Preferred Provisions
Unless a Firm expressly and specifically provides otherwise in its written proposal, the proposal received by the University in response to this Request for Proposal will automatically be deemed to include the Firm's agreement to these provisions:
1. The Firm consents to the University contacting and obtaining any information relevant to this Request for Proposal from the references and others identified by the Firm in its proposal, as well as from any other persons, firms, or agencies which the University wishes to contact; and
2. If selected by the University, the provisions governing the Firm's performance will include all the provisions of Attachment D,
Preferred Contractual Provisions.
X. Rejection of Proposals
The University reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received. Nonacceptance of a Firm's proposal will mean that one or more proposals were deemed more advantageous to the University or that all proposals were rejected. Firms whose proposals are not accepted will be notified after a binding contractual agreement between the University and the Selected Firm exists, or when the University rejects all proposals.
The University very much appreciates your Firm's consideration of this Request for Proposal and looks forward to receiving your Firm's proposal.
Attachment A
Background Discussion and Goals of the University
The Virginia Education and Research Network (VERnet) is a statewide Internet Protocol (IP)-based computer network which interconnects the majority of the Commonwealth's colleges and universities, several governmental agencies, some schools, and a few research and commercial organizations. A list of VERnet members is provided as Attachment L, VERnet Membership Site List. VERnet was established in the late 1980s to help fill a void in Virginia's research and education infrastructure by creating a mechanism to support cooperative research and education, promote Internet connectivity and services, and provide for the rapid exchange of all types of information. The initial funding for VERnet was from a combination of sources including a Virginia Tech grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) under its NSFNET program, construction fees and dues paid by member organizations, and a significant contribution of resources by Virginia Tech and the University of Virginia. During this initial time period, VERnet was sponsored by the Virginia Center for Public/Private Initiatives. At the end of the NSF grant period, a University of Virginia proposal to the Virginia Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) was funded for the continuation of VERnet. During the period of CIT support, the VERnet Board was established and the operational coordination role was assumed by the University of Virginia. VERnet has operated as an independent consortium since the end of the CIT award period.
VERnet's primary function is to provide low-cost leased-line Internet connectivity to consortium members throughout the state. A combination of T1 and 56 kbps leased lines and T1 and 56 kbps Frame Relay services are used to interconnect sites. Traffic destined for locations outside of VERnet is gatewayed to the rest of the Internet via a 3.0 Mbps connection supplied by the SURAnet region of Bolt, Bernack, and Neuman, Inc. The University expects to increase the bandwidth of the Internet gateway connection to 4.5 Mbps within the next few months. Attachment N details the current network topology and line speeds for each site. In addition to the leased line services, VERnet also operates modem pools for the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) in support of Virginia's Public
Education Network (VA-PEN) and for the Library of Virginia in support of the Virginia Library and Information Network (VLIN).
The rapid growth and commercialization of the Internet in recent years has fostered the creation of many new Internet service providers and helped to develop real competition. The market has grown to the point where the VERnet management now believes that it should be possible to procure connectivity services for the membership from an established Internet Service Provider for a fee structure that is similar to the dues currently paid by members. Under VERnet's existing rate structure, most sites with T1 connections pay $20,000 per year while most 56 kbps sites pay a $5,500 in annual dues. In general, these dues include local loop charges. The University seeks proposals from qualified Internet Service Providers to out-source the operation of VERnet. The intent is to out-source all aspects of VERnet's operation including, but not limited to, the actual provision of network connectivity, gateway service to other portions of the Internet, new site installation, network monitoring and repair, and all billing. VERnet's intention is to move away from operating a network into becoming a purchasing consortium where members place orders with and are billed directly by the Selected Firm.
Attachment B
Basis of Selection
A. The University will evaluate proposals and, if a Firm is to be selected, select the Firm on the basis of:
1. The composition of the Firm, including the key personnel committed to this project, and the Firm's capacity to provide high quality services as required by the University and described in Attachment H, Scope of Required Services, Attachment I, Mandatory Specifications and Attachment J, Preferred Specifications;
2. The Firm's financial proposal;
3. The Firm's plan to assist the University to meet its objectives for Internet services as defined in Attachment A, Background Discussion and Goals of the University, Attachment H, Scope of Required Services, Attachment I, Mandatory Specifications and Attachment J, Preferred Specifications;
4. The Firm's relevant experience, qualifications and success in providing services of the type described in Attachment H, Scope of Required Services, Attachment I, Mandatory Specifications, and Attachment J, Preferred Specifications;
5. The quality of the proposal, specifically:
a) the provision of service to all VERnet sites,
b) the technical quality of the proposal
6. The contractual terms which would govern the relationship between the University and the Selected Firm;
7. The Firm's references from institutions of higher education and clients which are comparable to the University;
8. Any other factors relevant to the Firm's capacity and willingness to satisfy the University.
B. The order in which the above selection criteria are listed is not necessarily indicative of their relative importance.
C. It is expected that the Selected Firm will demonstrate extensive and substantial qualifications, capabilities, and experience in the provision of Internet Services. Previous experience should include successful provision of similar services to comparable institutions.
The University intends to select a Firm on the basis of proposals received in response to this Request for Proposal and any other information it obtains from other sources regarding the Firm, including site visitations by a University delegation.
Attachment C
Contents of the Proposal
Each Firm that wishes to submit a proposal in response to this Request for Proposal should submit to the Issuing Office five (5) copies of a written proposal which provides the information requested below. Copies of proposals will not be sent to any other office or department whatsoever at the University of Virginia or at any other state agency. When responding tho this RFP each Firm must take into consideration the information provided in Attachment K, Special Needs of Certain VERnet Member Sites.
A. Proposed Services
Proposals should include this information relevant to the Firms' proposed services:
1. State the Firm's acceptance, with any proposed modifications, of Attachment D, Preferred Contractual Provisions;
2. State the Firm's acceptance of Attachment E, Mandatory Contractual Provisions;
3. State the Firm's acceptance, with any proposed modifications, of Attachment H, Scope of Required Services and Attachment I, Mandatory Specifications;
4. State the Firm's acceptance of Attachment J, Preferred Specifications; and
5. Provide a plan of operation to achieve the objectives set forth in Attachment A, Background Discussion and Goals of the University which fully addresses how the services outlined in Attachment H, Scope of Required Services, would be provided. At a minimum, the plan of operation should provide this information:
A) A description of the backbone network the Firm will construct or use to carry traffic to VERnet sites including its topology, capacity, redundancy, equipment location points, etc.
B) A description of the Firm's Network Operations Center, staffing, hours of operation, trouble reporting procedures, available management reports, etc.
C) An outline of a transition plan for the re-homing of sites off of the existing VERnet backbone on to the infrastructure used by the Firm.
D) An explanation how the Firm will connect VERnet sites to the rest of the Internet including information on the Firm's connection(s) to the Internet as a whole, the name of the Firm's Internet Service Provider (ISP) or National Science Foundation defined NAP connection points, bandwidths, available capacity, etc.
E) An outline of the Firm's plan for assuming the provision of ancillary services such as primary and secondary DNS server services, USENET news feeds, MBONE feeds, special routing requirements, etc.
F) The Firm's plan, if any, to provide special and/or discounted services to members of Virginia's Research and Educational community.
G) The Firm's proposal, if any, to optionally offer non-Internet telecommunications services to VERnet sites. Such services must be completely optional and might include items such as discounted long distance telephone services, discounted leased line services, and/or other data, video, or voice transmission services. Due to state regulations, VERnet members who are also state agencies may be unable to take advantage of many of these services.
B. The Firm and Its Proposed Operations
Proposals should provide this information about the Firm and its proposed operations:
1. Describe the Firm, its size, number of employees, and annual sales. This should include:
a. A brief history of the Firm, emphasizing its services to higher education;
b. An organizational chart indicating which individuals or positions would have knowledge of an Agreement with the University, and the degree to which each person would be responsible to the University's account;
c. The Firm's commitment to the University in terms of resources, personnel, investment, etc.; and
d. A copy of the Firm's most recent audited financial statements.
2. Describe the Firm's general experience in providing services of the nature the University seeks.
3. Provide a list of all of the Firm's clients comparable to the University indicating the length of service of each account. The University may contact and/or visit any of these accounts.
4. State that the Firm represents that the prices, terms, warranties, and benefits specified in its proposal are comparable to or better than the equivalent terms being offered by the Firm to any present customer.
5.5. The Firm will provide the University with any form or contract the University will be requested to sign.
C. Financial Proposal
The University seeks creative financial proposals which meet the objectives stated in Attachment A, Background Discussion and Goals of the University. Provide this information regarding the Firm's financial proposal:
1. The proposed Internet Service fee structure. Each Firm must clearly detail what is covered for each proposed rate (especially in the area of local loop circuit costs). At a minimum, the fee structure must provide for end-institution connectivity at rates of 56 kbps, T1, dual-T1 (3 Mbps imux service), and triple-T1 (4.5 Mbps imux service).
2. The fee structure, if any, for ancillary and/or optional services such as DNS, USENET news feeds, dial-up services, MBONE feeds, special routing needs, etc.
3. The University reserves the right to inspect any Firm's audited financial statements or other financial information which may be acceptable to the University prior to making an award to that Firm.
D. Reporting
The Firm will submit a report of past efforts to utilize the goods and services of small businesses, and businesses owned by women and minorities, and plans for the involvement of small business and businesses owned by women and minorities in the resulting Agreement from this Request for Proposal.
E. Other Information
Provide any other information which the University should consider in evaluating the Firm's proposal.
NOTE: In preparing proposals, Firms should be certain to address the selection criteria enumerated in Attachment B, Basis of Selection.
Attachment D
Preferred Contractual Provisions
A. Services
During the term of this Agreement, the Selected Firm will provide for the University the services offered to the University by the Firm in its proposal and/or any addenda to its proposal and as specified by the University when it selected the Firm.
B. Term of Agreement
The term of this Agreement will be for two years, with an option for renewal by the University, if agreeable to the Selected Firm, on the same terms and conditions, for three additional one year terms.
C. The University's Authorized Representatives
The only persons who are or will be authorized to speak or act for the University in any way with respect to this Agreement are those whose positions or names have been specifically designated in writing to the Selected Firm by the University's Chief Contracting Officer.
D. Waiver
No waiver of any right hereunder will be deemed a continuing waiver, and no failure on the part of either party to exercise wholly or in part any right hereunder will prevent a later exercise of such or any other right.
E. Indemnification
The Selected Firm will indemnify and hold harmless The Rector and Visitors of the University, the Commonwealth, and the employees and agents of each, from any and all property damage or loss, claims, liability, damages, expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys' fees and expenses) and any other amounts arising out of the performance of the Agreement by the Selected Firm.
F. Governing Law
This Agreement will be governed in all respects by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
G. Termination
If the Selected Firm fails to provide quality services in a professional manner, solely as determined by the University, and, upon receipt of notice from the University, does not correct the deficiency within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 30 calendar days unless otherwise agreed to by both parties, the University reserves the right to terminate this Agreement by giving written notice to the Selected Firm.
H. Non-Appropriation
Funding for any Agreement between the University and a Selected Firm is dependent at all times upon the appropriation of funds by the Virginia General Assembly and/or any other agency of the Commonwealth authorized to appropriate such funds. In the event that funding to support this Agreement is not appropriated, whether in whole or in part, then the Agreement may be terminated effective the last day for which appropriated funding is available.
I. Right of Audit
The University reserves the right to audit or cause to be audited the Selected Firm's books and accounts with the University at any time during the term of this Agreement and for five years thereafter.
J. Contractual Claims
This Agreement is subject to the University's policy on Contractual Claims which is provided as Attachment F, Procedure for Resolution of Contractual Claims.
K. Insurance
Listed below is the insurance which the Selected Firm must provide under any Agreement resulting from this Request for Proposal. Each Firm will propose insurance which meets or exceeds the needs of the University. No Agreement will be executed by the University until the Firm satisfies the insurance requirements of the University. The Selected Firm will provide the University with a valid Certificate of Insurance before providing any goods or services to the University. The University reserves the right to approve any insurance proposed by the Selected Firm.
Commercial/Comprehensive General Liability:
The Selected Firm and any Subcontractor will maintain, at a minimum, a minimum Limit of Liability for bodily injury and property damage of $500,000 per person/occurrence, with coverage for:
Premises - Operations
Product - Completed Operations
Automobile Insurance
The Selected Firm and Subcontractor will provide a minimum Limit of Liability for bodily injury of $100,000/$300,000 per person/occurrence and property damage $100,000 per occurrence, with coverage for:
Owned and non-owned automobiles operated by their employees.
L. Purchasing Manual
This Request for Proposal and subsequent Agreement are subject to the provisions of the Commonwealth of Virginia "Purchasing Manual for Institutions of Higher Education and Their Vendors" and any subsequent revisions.
M. Agency Access
If agreeable with the Selected Firm, these agencies may have access to any Agreement resulting from this request for proposal (RFP): 1) Any University related foundation or not for profit organization, and 2) Any institution of higher education, including Virginia's public colleges, universities, community colleges, and vocational education schools. The Selected Firm will respond promptly to a request from any of these agencies for access to the Agreement, but is NOT required to provide that access to the agency. A Firm's willingness to provide this access to these agencies will not be a consideration in awarding this RFP. Although the agencies may have access to the Agreement, their use of the Agreement is strictly optional.
If an agency chooses to access the Agreement, the Agreement will be considered amended to be between the Selected Firm and the agency. The University will have no responsibility whatsoever for payment of invoices rendered to the agency, resolution of problems, or administration of contractual claims. The University's sole intent is to provide other agencies with access to the University's Agreements and to provide Selected Firms with opportunities to do business with other agencies.
Attachment E
Mandatory Contractual Provisions
A. Nondiscrimination
During the performance of this Agreement, the Selected Firm will comply with the contract provisions contained in Section 11-51 (1) & (2) of the Code of Virginia or any successor provisions which may be applicable to this Agreement.
B. Conflict of Interests
The Selected Firm represents to the University that its entering into this Agreement with the University does not entail any violation of the Virginia State and Local Government Conflict of Interest Act.
C. Assignment
Neither party to this Agreement will have the right to assign this Agreement in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the other.
D. Amendments
No amendment of this Agreement will be effective unless it is reduced to writing and executed by the University's Chief Contracting Officer and by the individual signing the Selected Firm's proposal or by other individuals named by either party as specified in Section E, Notices below. If the Selected Firm deviates from the terms of this Agreement without a written amendment, it does so at its own risk.
E. Notices
All notices will be given in writing and deemed given when delivered to, or deposited in the U.S. Postal Service mail, certified mail return receipt requested, and addressed to the other party as shown below.
If to the University:
Dolly Prenzel
Chief Contracting Officer
Carruthers Hall
University of Virginia
1001 North Emmet Street
P.O. Box 9008
Charlottesville, Virginia 22906
If to the Selected Firm:
The person signing the Selected Firm's proposal in response to the University's Request for Proposal, at the Selected Firm's address indicated in such proposal; or to such other person or address as either may designate for itself in writing and provide to the other.
F. Independent Contractor
The Selected Firm will not be an employee of the University, but will be an independent contractor. The Selected Firm will indemnify and hold harmless the Commonwealth of Virginia, the University, and the employees and agents of each with respect to all withholding, Social Security, unemployment compensation and all other taxes or amounts of any kind relating to employment of the persons providing services to the University with respect to this Agreement. Nothing in this Agreement will be construed as authority for the Selected Firm to make commitments which will bind the University, or to otherwise act on behalf of the University, except as the University may expressly authorize in writing.
G. Worker's Compensation and Employers Liability
The Selected Firm will comply with all statutory regulations and the Code of Virginia pertaining to Worker's Compensation Requirements for insured or self-insured programs. Minimum limits of liability on Employers Liability is $100,000. The Selected Firm will waive subrogation rights in any Worker's Compensation Claims, Employers Liability or action involving the Selected Firm's employees.
H. Drug-Free Workplace
The Selected Firm, its agents and employees are prohibited, under the terms of this Agreement and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Personnel and Training Policy Number 1.02 executed by Governor Lawrence Douglas Wilder on July 1, 1991, from manufacturing, distributing, dispensing, possessing, or using any unlawful or unauthorized drugs or alcohol while on University property.
Attachment F
Procedure for Resolution of Contractual Claims
Section 11-69 of the Virginia Public Procurement Act requires contractors with the University to submit any claims, whether for money or other relief, in writing no later than 60 days after final payment, however, written notice of the contractors intention to file such a claim will have been given at the time of the occurrence or beginning of the work upon which the claim is based.
The University's procedure for deciding such contractual claims is:
A. The Selected Firm must provide the written claim to:
Director
Department of Purchasing and Materials Services
University of Virginia
1001 North Emmet Street
P.O. Box 9008
Charlottesville, Virginia 22906
B. Although the Selected Firm may, if it chooses, attempt to resolve its claim by dealing with a University department other than the one stated in Section A above, the Selected Firm must submit any unresolved claim in writing no later than 60 days after final payment to the Director of Purchasing and Materials Services if it wishes to pursue its claim.
C. Upon receiving the written claim, the Director of Purchasing and Materials Services will review the written materials relating to the claim and decide whether to discuss the merits of the claim with the Selected Firm. If such discussion is to be held, the Director of Purchasing and Materials Services will contact the Selected Firm and arrange such discussion. The manner of conducting such discussion will be as the Director and the Selected Firm mutually agree.
D. The Director of Purchasing and Materials Services will mail his or her decision to the Selected Firm within 60 days after receipt of the claim. The decision will state the reason for granting or denying the claim.
E. The Selected Firm may appeal the decision to:
Chief Contracting Officer
University of Virginia
Carruthers Hall
1001 North Emmet Street
P.O. Box 9008
Charlottesville, Virginia 22906
by providing a written statement explaining the basis of the appeal to the Chief Contracting Officer, within 15 days after the Selected Firm's receipt of the decision.
F. Upon receiving the written appeal, the Chief Contracting Officer will review the written materials relating to the claim and decide whether to discuss the merits of the claim with the Selected Firm. If such discussion is to be held, the Chief Contracting Officer will contact the Selected Firm and arrange such discussion. The manner of conducting such discussion will be as the Chief Contracting Officer and the Selected Firm mutually agree.
G. The Chief Contracting Officer will mail his or her decision to the Selected Firm within 15 days after the Chief Contracting Officer's receipt of the appeal. The decision will state the reasons for granting or denying the appeal.
Attachment G
Dial-Up Modem Services
Attachment H
Scope of Required Services
A. General
The University is seeking experienced Firms to provide Internet connectivity services to members of the VERnet consortium. It is the University's intent to contract with a single Firm unless, after examining the submitted proposals, it appears to be beneficial to the University to award contracts to multiple Firms.
B. Service
11The Selected Firm will provide Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity between all members of the VERnet consortium and will gateway traffic as needed to non-VERnet locations across the Internet in general as needed.
The Selected Firm must have qualified staff on duty 24 hours per day, 365 days per year to resolve connectivity problems.
The Selected Firm will operate a Network Operations Center (NOC) on a 24 hours per day, 365 day per year basis. The NOC will proactively monitor all circuits used to provide services to VERnet members and will work to resolve problems before member sites are aware that they exist.
The Selected Firm will provide USENET news feeds, MBONE feeds, DNS server services, and other such services to individual VERnet sites upon request.
The Selected Firm will provide the University with the ability to perform direct read-only SNMP queries of the routers used to provide service to VERnet member sites. This service merely requires the provision of SNMP access control information and does not imply that the Selected Firm is to supply a network management package to the University.
The Selected Firm may choose to offer and individual VERnet Member Sites may choose to purchase a maintenance agreement where the Selected Firm either maintains the VERnet Member Site's router and CSU or maintains a pool of spare units for shipment in the event of a failure.
C. Management Reports
The Selected Firm(s) will, upon request, supply the University and/or VERnet Member Sites with reports which detail the level and/or quality of service being delivered. It expected that such reports will be requested on an infrequent basis and will primarily be used for capacity planning and problem resolution purposes. The Selected Firm will propose its standard report topics, formats, sampling intervals, sampling periods, and units of measure when responding to this Request for Proposals. The University and the Selected Firm will finalize reporting details as part of the final agreement negotiations. At a minimum, the University expects to be able to receive reports on Link Utilization, Packet Loss Rates, Link Error Rates, and Queue Drops.
Attachment I
Mandatory Technical Specifications
Service Point Locations. The Selected Firm will provide network services to all existing VERnet members at the locations and data rates specified in Attachment L, VERnet Membership Table. The University fully expects that the vast majority of existing VERnet members will choose to transition to the new network infrastructure but can not guarantee any specific site or quantity of sites at this time. VERnet will obtain firm commitments from the membership before signing an Agreement with the Selected Firm.
Router Serial Port Compatibility. Most VERnet sites are equipped with Cisco packet routers with serial ports configured to operate using Cisco's proprietary serial protocol. These routers are a mixture of AGS+, CGS, IGS, and 2500 devices. A few sites use NAT LANB-180 routers operating using the PPP protocol. Support for both the native cisco protocol and PPP is required. The Selected Firm must support Cisco router products or provide equivalent replacement equipment as part of its proposal.
DSU/CSU Devices. At 56 kbps data rates a variety of CSUs are used. The vast majority are either General Datacom 500C devices or AT&T 3510 units. Some Fastcomm units are also in service. At T1 data rates, all CSUs are Digital Link DL551VX and DL-551 Encore units. The only T1 inverse multiplexor in service is also a Digital Link unit. The Selected Firm must either agree to support this existing equipment or provide equivalent replacement equipment as part of its proposal.
Routing Protocols. With the exception of the University of Virginia, routing information is passed to member sites using RIP. The University of Virginia exchanges routing information with its provider via BGP. Most sites will continue to rely on RIP but the Selected Firm must support both protocols.
Acceptable Use Policy. The Internet gateway services provided to VERnet Member Sites can not be restricted by an acceptable use requirement such as the old NSFNET Acceptable Use Policy which restricted use to research and educational purposes. All VERnet sites must be provided with full commercial access.
CIDR Block Delegation. The Selected Firm will have or obtain a CIDR block of IP addresses from the Internic and meter out additional IP address space as needed to VERnet member sites.
Attachment J
Preferred Technical Specifications
It is not necessary that the following components be included in your Firm's proposal. They are included here in order for the University to take advantage of any discounts available as part of a package. As stated in Attachment C: Contents of the Proposal, the University reserves the right to make a partial award based on line item quotations, and it will select the most advantageous package, selecting from all of its options.
Router Serial Port Compatibility. Some older VERnet sites are still equipped with Proteon P4200 and P4100 routers. In general, these routers are older models that do not support the PPP protocol. The ability of these sites to be able to continue to use this older equipment is highly desirable.
Existing Dial-up Modem Services. VERnet presently operates dial-up modem pools in various parts of the state for Virginia's Public Education Network (VA-PEN) and for the Virginia Library and Information Network (VLIN). VA-PEN is operated by the Virginia Department of Education and primarily serves K-12 educational sites. VLIN is operated by the Library of Virginia and provides services to libraries and librarians throughout the state. Attachment G, Dial-up Modem Services details the location, quantity, and technical specifications for the modem pools presently operated by VERnet. Firms are encouraged to submit proposals for assuming operational responsibility for these modem pools.
New Dial-up Modem Services. VA-PEN and VLIN might be interested in expanding the size of the existing modem pools and may also be interested installing modem pools in new locations. Any such new services would operate under the same terms as for Section B above and new facilities would only be installed in locations with existing Internet connections where site personnel would be available to assist with problem diagnosis and resolution.
Gateway Services. Several VERnet sites have expressed an interest in being able to use their Internet connection to gateway traffic from affiliated and other local organizations to the Internet. Positive policy statements from the Firm or a pricing schedule should be submitted by the Firm if the Firm will be able to offer this type of service to VERnet members.
Attachment K
Special Needs of Certain VERnet Member Sites
Center for Innovative Technology and Software Productivity Consortium. The Virginia Center for Innovative Technology and the Software Productivity Consortium are related by mutual agreements and share the same building complex. These sites have different IP network numbers but, for the purposes of the Firm's response, should be treated as a single site.
Old Dominion University. Old Dominion University has expressed an interest in obtaining higher speed Internet connectivity. The Firm must propose optional pricing for dual-T1 (3.0 Mbps) service at this location. The pricing should include the cost of the inverse multiplexor.
University of Virginia. The University of Virginia has research partnership and various other ties and arrangements with local entities including, but not limited to, the local city and county school systems, the Jefferson Madison Regional Library, local city and county government offices, firms in the University's research parks, and some other locations as needed for special purposes. Although some of these locations operate with non-University IP network numbers, they are connected to the University's network and the University must be able to continue to supply Internet services to these affiliated networks. The University of Virginia presently has a dual-T1 connection to the Internet and is in the process of upgrading this connection to triple-T1. The Firm must propose triple-T1, quad-T1, and full T3 pricing for the University of Virginia.
Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University has expressed an interest in obtaining higher speed Internet connectivity. The Firm must propose optional pricing for dual-T1 (3.0 Mbps) service at this location. The pricing should include the cost of the inverse multiplexor.
Virginia Community College System. The Virginia Community College System operates its own state-wide IP-based network. The Community College network is gatewayed to the Internet by VERnet in Richmond via a 64 kbps line. The Community College System is planning to upgrade their connection to T1 and requires price quotes for both 56 kbps and T1 gateway service.
Ferrum College. Ferrum College is interested in obtaining a T1 level of service. They desire a connection with a policy that will enable them to provide Internet services to their local school systems. Costs should be quoted for Ferrum both for a continuation of their existing service and for the type of T1 service they are interested in obtaining.
Attachment L
VERnet Membership Site List
Bristol Public Library
Bristol Public Library
Goode Street
Bristol, VA 24201-4199
703-669-9444
Brookville High School
Campbell County Schools
P.O. Box 99
Rustburg, VA 24588
804-528-1655
Brookneil Elementary School
Campbell County Schools
P.O. Box 99
Rustburg, VA 24588
804-376-2042
Buckmaster Publishing
Buckmaster Publishing
Rt. 4, Box 1630
Mineral, VA 23117
703-894-5777
Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility
CEBAF
12000 Jefferson Avenue
Newport News, VA 23606
804-249-7536
Center for Innovative Technology
Center for Innovative Technology
CIT Building, Suite 600
2214 Rock Hill Road
Herndon, VA 22070
703-689-3047
Clinch Valley College
Clinch Valley College
Administration and Finance
Clinch Valley College
Wise, VA 24293
703-328-0195
Christopher Newport College
Christopher Newport University
50 Shoe Lane
Newport News, VA 23606
804-594-7183
Central Virginia Governor's School
Central Virginia Governor's School
3020 Wards Ferry Road
Lynchburg, VA 24502
804-582-1104
Cooper Center for Public Service
700 East Franklin Street
Richmond, VA
804-371-0202
Environmental Resources of Michigan
ERIM
1101 Wilson Blvd.
Suite 1100
Arlington, VA 22209-2403
703-528-5250
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Academic Computer Center
Eastern Virginia Medical School
P.O. Box 1980
Norfolk, VA 23501
804-446-5772
FBI Academy
FBI Academy (UVa Cont. Ed.)
FBI Academy
Quantico, VA 22135
703-640-1224
Ferrum College
Ferrum College
Route 40
Ferrum, VA 24088
703-365-4386
Fluvanna County Schools
P. O. Box 419
Palmyra, VA 22963
(804) 589-8208
George Mason University
Communications Network Services
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-993-3401
Goochland County Schools
Goochland School System Office
2938 River Road West
Goochland, VA 23063
804-556-5316
Hand Held Products
Hand Held Products, Inc.
12955 River Road
Richmond, Va. 23233
804-784-3090
Hollins College
Hollins College
8142 E. Campus Drive
Roanoke, VA 24020
540-362-6292
Institute for Textile Technology
Institute of Textile Technology
P.O. Box 391
Charlottesville, VA 22902
804-296-5511
Jefferson Forest High School
Jefferson Forest High School
1 Cavalier Circle
Forrest, VA 24551
804-525-2674
James Madison University
Frye Building
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
703-568-6896
Lynchburg City Library
Lynchburg Information Online Network (LION)
2315 Memorial Avenue
Lynchburg, VA 24595
804-847-1577
Longwood College
Research and Information Systems
Longwood College
Farmville, VA 23901
804-395-2034
Lynchburg College
Lynchburg College
1501 Lakeside Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24501
804-544-0629
Marymount University
Marymount University
2807 North Glebe Road
Arlington, VA 22207-4299
703-284-5950
Math and Science Center
Math and Science Center
2401 Hartman Street
Richmond, VA 23223
804-343-6525
Mary Baldwin College
Frederick Street
Staunton, VA 24401
703-887-7150
Martha Jefferson Hospital
459 Locust Avenue
Charlottesville, VA 22902
804-982-7079
Norfolk State University
Norfolk State University
2401 Corprew Ave
Norfolk, VA 23504
804-683-2533
NVGC (Telstar - Fairfax)
Northern Virginia Graduate Center
2990 Telstar Court
Falls Church, VA 22042
703-698-6000
Old Dominion University
Associate Vice President
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA 23529-0227
804-683-4638
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Route 6, Box 1
Charlottesville, VA 22901
804-977-3900
Radford University
Computer Services
Radford University
P.O. Box 6888
Radford, VA 24142
703-831-5173
Richard Bland College
Administrative Building
Richard Bland College
11301 Johnson Road
Petersburg, VA 23805
804-862-6274
The Governor's School for Government and International Studies
4100 W. Grace Street
Richmond, VA 23230
804-780-6155
Randolph Macon College
Randolph Macon College
Corner of Railroad and College
Ashland, VA 23005
804-752-7263
Randolph Macon Woman's College
Randolph Macon Woman's College
2500 Rivermont Avenue
Lynchburg, VA 24503
804-947-8103
Roanoke Valley Governor's School
2104 Grandin Rd
Roanoke, VA 24015
703-981-2116
Roanoke College
Roanoke College
Academic Computing Center
221 College Lane
Salem, VA 24153
703-375-2395
Roanoke Graduate Center
Roanoke Valley Graduate Center
Virginia Tech/UVa
117 Church Avenue, SW
Roanoke, VA 24011-1905
703-857-7584
Sweet Briar College
Computer Center
Sweet Briar College
Sweet Briar, VA 24595
804-381-6301
State Council for Higher Education
State Council for Higher Education
James Monroe Building
101 North Fourteenth Street
Richmond, VA 23219
804-225-2643
Software Productivity Consortium
Software Productivity Consortium
SPC Building
2214 Rock Hill Road
Herndon, VA 22070
703-742-7267
Saint Anne's Belfield School
St. Anne's-Belfield School
2132 Ivy Road
Charlottesville, VA 22903
804-296-5106
Thomas Nelson Community College
Thomas Nelson Community College
Thomas Nelson Drive
P.O. Box 9407
Hampton VA 23670
804-825-2905
University of Richmond
University Computing
University of Richmond
Richmond, VA 23173
804-289-8779
. Virginia Community College System
Virginia Community College System
James Monroe Building
101 North Fourteenth Street
Richmond, VA 23219
804-225-2281
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond Plaza Building, 4th Floor
110 S. Seventh Street
Richmond, VA 23284
804-828-6450
Virginia Department of Education
Virginia Department of Education
101 North Fourteenth Street
Richmond, VA 23219
804-225-2941
Virginia Institute for Marine Science
Virginia Institute for Marine Science
Box 1346
Gloucester Point, VA 23062
804-642-7183
University of Virginia
Information Technology and Communication
Carruthers Hall
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, VA 22903
804-924-0616
UVa Continuing Education Center (Abingdon)
UVA Continuing Education
Southwest Virginia Center
P.O. Drawer 1987
Highway 19 North
Abingdon, VA 24210
703-628-6327
University of Virginia Continuing Education
UVa Continuing Education Center (Hampton)
418 Pembroke Four
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(804) 552-1890
UVa Continuing Education Center (Lynchburg)
University of Virginia
Division of Continuing Education
P. O. Box 3199
1 Quinlan Street
Lynchburg, Va. 24503
(804)947-6699
UVa Continuing Education Center (Richmond)
UVa Continuing Education Center
Suite E
7740 Shrader Road
Richmond, VA 23226
804-662-7464
Virginia Military Institute
Virginia Military Institute
330 Nichols
Lexington, VA 24450
703-464-7341
Virginia State Library
Library Development Division
Virginia State Library
11th Street at Capitol Square
Richmond, VA 23219-3491
804-786-2320
Virginia State University
Box 9090
Virginia State University
Petersburg, VA 23803
804-524-5303
Virginia Tech
Virginia Tech
Information Systems Building, CRC
1700 Pratt Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24060
703-231-6022
Washington and Lee University
Washington and Lee University
Tucker Hall, Room 213
Lexington, VA 24450
540-463-8847
Walker Elementary School
1564 Dairy Road
Charlottesville, VA
804- 984-7024
William and Mary
Blow Memorial Hall
College of William and Mary
Williamsburg, VA 23185
804-221-3005
Lynchburg Family Practice Residency
2097 Langhorne Road
Lynchburg, VA 24501
804-947-5200
Danville Regional Medical Center
142 South Main Street
Danville, VA 24541
804-799-2100
Attachment M
VERnet Dial-Up Site Location List
Site Name Phone Lines Modem Cards Modem Chassis Term. Servers
Bristol Library 4 2 1, Older style 1 NB
University of 15 8 1 1 NB
Virginia
Clinch Valley College 10 5 1 1 NB
George Mason 31 16 1 1 NB, 1 Cisco
University
CEBAF 17 9 1 1 NB, 1 Cisco
James Madison 9 5 1 1 NB
University
Lynchburg College 14 7 1 1 NB
Old Dominion 28 14 1 1 NB, 1 Cisco
University
Virgina State 6 3 1 1 NB
University
Mary Baldwin College 6 3 1, Older style 1 NB
Virginia Tech. 10 5 1 1 NB
VA Cowmmonwealth 18 9 1 1 NB, 1 Cisco
Univ.
Roanoke College 21 11 1 1 NB, 1 Cisco
Spotsylvania 14 7 1 1 NB
Notes on modems and
associated rack mount
units:
The modem cards used
are US Robotics
14.kbps dual analog
units.
The modem racks are
USR WAN HUB units.
The older style noted
above are USR
Rackmount 32 units.
Notes on terminal
servers:
The "NB" above
signifies a Telebit
Netblazer ST terminal
server.
The "Cisco" above
signifies a Cisco
2511 terminal server.