GSA Awards Federal Wireless Telecommunications Services Contract to GTE

GSA #9360
Contact: Bill Bearden
(202) 501-1231
Internet: bill.bearden@gsa.gov

The U.S. General Services Administration's Federal Telecommunications Service (FTS) announced today the award of the Federal Wireless Telecommunications Services (FWTS) contract to GTE Government Systems. With an estimated value of approximately $300 million, the contract is the first of its kind to provide nationwide wireless service and equipment to all Federal agencies and authorized users. Substantial cost savings will be realized. Prices for equivalent services in the 10 largest government market areas range from 20% to 60% below commercial rates. Additionally, there are no daily roaming access charges.

In announcing the award, Robert J. Woods, Federal Telecommunications Service Commissioner, said, "We are pleased to welcome GTE as part of the FTS Program. I look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship providing excellent wireless services and prices to government agencies."

The FWTS is a non-mandatory contract for use by agencies in the United States, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Guam and the Northern Marianas. It will also provide the flexibility through contract enhancements to obtain additional emerging wireless services and equipment as determined by agency requirements and public availability. The contract is the second to be awarded by the Post FTS2000 Program, following the recent award of the Telecommunications Services Contract Two (TSC2). The term is for 8 years with an initial 3-year period and five 1-year options.

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