Call issued for solutions to telecom infrastructure woes.

By THE STAR STAFF

The Puerto Rico Broadband Program (PRBP) has issued a request for proposals seeking suppliers to modernize the island’s telecommunications infrastructure in an effort officials say will strengthen the communications systems used by public safety agencies.

The PRBP said the initiative is aimed at improving the resilience, reliability and coverage of critical networks used by emergency management, law enforcement and other security agencies, particularly during hurricanes and other disasters.

Program materials describe the project as a push to ensure first responders have access to robust, high-speed and secure service, including improved continuity of operations when commercial networks are strained or disrupted.

Puerto Rico’s telecommunications systems have faced persistent challenges in recent years, including service interruptions and fragile network segments that can be damaged by extreme weather, difficult terrain and gaps in coverage outside major population centers. Industry analysts and local officials have also pointed to the need for more redundancy, hardened facilities and backup power to keep communications online when the electrical grid and fuel supply chain are under stress.

The PRBP is inviting technology providers, infrastructure companies and telecom operators to propose solutions to improve network performance, expand coverage and support public safety operations with modern tools and services.

The request for proposals was published April 24, and submissions are due May 29.

The solicitation comes as Puerto Rico continues to pursue broadband expansion and other digital infrastructure upgrades, supported in part by federal funding streams intended to close connectivity gaps and bolster disaster preparedness.