800 MHz Digital Mobile Radio System Replacement

A government authority in Pontoon Beach, Illinois seeks replacement of its 800 MHz digital mobile radio system. The existing two-way radio platform reached end-of-life in 2012 and end-of-support in 2017, with no remaining equipment available to repair or replace failed mobile, portable, or base station units. The system serves as the primary communications backbone for daily operations and fleet maintenance functions.

The current system operates on multiple owner-owned 800 MHz frequencies and broadcasts from an aging owner-owned tower that is also scheduled for replacement. The authority plans to add two repeater sites on existing owner-owned towers to address coverage gaps within the operational area. Due to critical spare-parts shortages and continuing system failures, the radio replacement will proceed independently of the tower replacement project.

The selected vendor is expected to provide an all-encompassing solution using current hardware and software suitable for a private agency system. The replacement system must provide a robust, maintainable communications platform supporting the safety and operational continuity of the authority's services. Questions must be submitted by September 30, 2026.