USDA's $141.6M Network Infrastructure Contract Awarded to Lumen Technologies
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $141,571,333 ($141.6M)
Contractor: Lumen Technologies Government Solutions, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Agriculture
Start Date: 2021-12-16
End Date: 2026-09-30
Sector: IT
Official Description: USDANET ENTERPRISE INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Agriculture obligated $141.6 million to LUMEN TECHNOLOGIES GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS, INC. for work described as: USDANET ENTERPRISE INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS Key points: 1. Significant investment in enterprise network infrastructure. 2. Competition details are limited, raising potential concerns. 3. Contract duration extends over several years, indicating long-term reliance. 4. Potential for cost efficiencies through consolidated network services.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The total value of this contract is substantial, reflecting a significant investment in the USDA's network capabilities. The award covers a multi-year period, suggesting a strategic commitment to upgrading and maintaining critical IT infrastructure.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: unknown
Information regarding the specific procurement method and the extent of competition is not readily available. Further details are needed to assess if the award was fully competitive or if other factors influenced the selection.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayers expect competitive bidding to ensure the best value for government IT investments.
Public Impact
Ensures reliable data transmission for USDA operations. Supports modernization of federal IT systems. May impact access to services reliant on network stability.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of transparency in the competitive process.
- Potential for vendor lock-in with a single provider.
Positive Signals
- Modernizes critical IT infrastructure.
- Consolidates network services for potential efficiency gains.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the IT services sector, specifically focusing on the foundational network infrastructure essential for modern government operations. Such investments are crucial for data security, communication, and the delivery of digital services.
Small Business Impact
There is no indication that small businesses were specifically targeted or that this contract was set aside for them. The award appears to be to a large, established provider.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight will be critical to ensure Lumen Technologies meets performance benchmarks and delivers the contracted services effectively. Regular reviews of service delivery and cost management are essential.
Related Government Programs
- Network Infrastructure
- Enterprise IT Solutions
- Telecommunications Services
Risk Flags
- Lack of competition details
- Long contract duration
Tags
usda, it-infrastructure, network-services, lumen-technologies, federal-contracting, enterprise-solutions, delivery-order
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Agriculture awarded $141.6 million to LUMEN TECHNOLOGIES GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS, INC.. USDANET ENTERPRISE INFRASTRUCTURE SOLUTIONS
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is LUMEN TECHNOLOGIES GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Agriculture (Office of the Chief Financial Officer).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $141.6 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2021-12-16. End: 2026-09-30.
Analysis insight 1
The contract's duration suggests a long-term need for these network services.
Analysis insight 2
Understanding the competitive landscape for this award is key to assessing value.
Analysis insight 3
The scope of 'enterprise infrastructure solutions' warrants detailed examination.