EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso has received a $4 million grant to support what is being called “critical water infrastructure improvements” at Fort Bliss, state Sen. Cesar Blanco’s Office announced.

The grant has been awarded through the Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant program through the Texas Military Preparedness Commission.

The funding will support expanded water capacity at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Desalination Plant, a key facility that serves both Fort Bliss and the greater El Paso community, Blanco’s office said.

The investment will help strengthen water reliability for the installation while supporting the region’s growing water needs, Blanco’s office added.

The Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG) program, administered through the Texas Military Preparedness Commission in the Office of the Governor, provides funding to communities across Texas for infrastructure projects that strengthen military value, support local economies, and help position installations for potential future base realignment and closure (BRAC) decisions.

Blanco, D-El Paso, issued the following statement:

“Fort Bliss is a cornerstone of our community and a major driver of our regional economy. This investment helps ensure the installation has the infrastructure it needs to carry out its mission, while also strengthening water security for El Paso.

“Water remains one of the most critical challenges facing our region. Expanding capacity at the desalination plant is a practical, forward-looking solution that benefits both our military partners and our broader community. Investments like this help protect jobs, support economic growth, and reinforce El Paso’s role as a strong and reliable partner in supporting our servicemembers and national defense.”

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