NETWORK SWITCH REFRESH PARTS

The Buffalo Public Schools (BPS) is seeking parts and pricing for the 2027 Network Switch Refresh Project. The procurement will support the district-wide replacement of aging Extreme Networks access/closet switching infrastructure with a standardized Fortinet FortiSwitch architecture. The current planning baseline includes FortiSwitch 348G-FPOE access switches, FortiSwitch 1024E switches, associated FortiCare support, direct-attach cables, and long-range SFP+ transceivers.

The project is intended to standardize switch models, operating code, configuration, and management; integrate the new access switches with BPS's existing FortiGate/FortiSwitch infrastructure; support automated configuration and firmware deployment; and reduce reliance on external scripts and custom server-based processes currently used to support the legacy architecture.

BPS is seeking pricing for the network equipment and associated support/components required for the 2027 Network Switch Refresh Project. The equipment will support replacement and standardization of BPS access/closet switching and integration with the District's existing Fortinet infrastructure.

The current design uses FortiSwitch 348G-FPOE as the standardized access/closet switch platform and FortiSwitch 1024E equipment as specified below. The District requires the manufacturer part numbers, descriptions, and quantities listed in this offering. Bidders should price the requested items, or equivalent items, in the BPS Bid Table.

• Bidders are to submit their pricing in the BPS Bonfire portal.
• Bidders are required to also submit their standard price quote forms with vendor logo such that the amounts and total equal their BPS Bonfire Bid Table submission. Failure to do so may result in rejection.
• Bidders should submit manufacturer product data sheets (or similar documentation) to demonstrate compliance with the technical specifications. All items are subject to BPS review to ensure functionality, quality, compatibility, and performance. Failure to meet the specifications may result in rejection.
• All hardware, support, cables, transceivers, and related items shall be new and authentic manufacturer products, or equivalent, unless the District expressly authorizes otherwise in writing.
• Bidders shall identify any manufacturer authorization, support entitlement, licensing, registration, or activation requirements necessary for BPS to receive the specified FortiCare support.
• Bid prices must include F.O.B. destination shipping to the BPS-designated receiving location. Current project planning anticipates delivery to the 64 Bailey warehouse; the final ship-to address will be confirmed by BPS Purchasing in the released bid.
• Delivery schedule and lead time must be stated in the bid response. BPS desires to begin field deployment approximately July 1, 2027, depending upon E-Rate funding award; therefore, delivery timing is a material project dependency.
• Payments will require SPI invoicing, at the district discretion.
• No installation labor or disposal services are requested under this parts bid unless specifically added by formal addendum.

Submission method

Electronic submittal is ALLOWED (and encouraged) via BPS BONFIRE portal at: https://buffaloschools.bonfirehub.com/portal/?tab=openOpportunities. Only one method of submittal should be used; mailed responses will be entered into the electronic portal by the BPS Purchase Department for evaluation/scoring purposes. Mailed or delivered responses must include two (2) printed copies and one (1) electronic copy.

Offering closes **11/10/2026 4:00 PM**. Tentative award: 12/16/2026.

**Basis of award:** Lowest price. Award may be split among respondents: No. Subcontractors may be used: No. Insurance is required: No. Response Surety ("Bid Bond") Required: No. Performance Bond Required: No. Formal contract required: No. Proposals valid for: 90 days past closing minimum.

**Contract term:** Board approval (one-time purchase). Maximum Term End: 06/30/2027.

**E-Rate:** Service providers unable or unwilling to participate in the federal E-rate Program will automatically be eliminated from this RFP process. The winning Proposers must be in "Good Standing" with USAC and the SLD E-Rate program, and will be required to have or obtain a SPIN number(s) and provide it as part of their proposal submission. Proposers MUST provide New York State OGS contract number, if applicable.