(EL PASO COUNTY, Colo.) — Congressman Jeff Crank announced that four projects expected to benefit El Paso County have been included in the U.S. House of Representatives Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill.
On Tuesday, July 22, Congressman Crank announced four projects that will get funding, provided the appropriations bill passes. The 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Bill had not yet become law as of Tuesday, July 22.
“I am pleased to announce that my office has secured critical funding for projects in Colorado’s Fifth Congressional District,” said Rep. Jeff Crank. “These projects will allow for a safer community and protect our law enforcement, expand our students’ cybersecurity potential, and invest in our infrastructure. I look forward to seeing these projects signed into law later this Congress.”
The four projects included in the bill are:
Purchase of a new rescue vehicle
Purchase of a new rescue vehicle for the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. According to Congressman Crank, the County’s current and aging vehicle is commonly used to resolve dangerous situations while protecting deputies and the public. In the past year alone, the vehicle has been called to over 275 incidents. Congressman Crank hopes the purchase of the new vehicle will ensure the community does not lose this critical capability.
“I am incredibly grateful to Congressman Crank for his efforts to secure critical public safety funding for the citizens of the Pikes Peak region,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “The acquisition of a new rescue vehicle will ensure the safety of the community, my deputies, and our law enforcement partners across Colorado. My Office is committed to reducing victims and holding criminals accountable- and equipment such as an ARV allows us to complete our mission safely.”
Obtaining state-of-the-art computer equipment for UCCS
Obtain state-of-the-art computer equipment for the University of Colorado Colorado Springs’ Cybersecurity Program and Cyber Engineering Labs. Congressman Crank said this equipment will allow UCCS to train the next generation of cyber professionals to assist the five military installations and thousands of small businesses that call the Fifth District home.
“I am grateful to Congressman Crank for his partnership with UCCS and for submitting our community project funding request to Congress,” said UCCS Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet. “As a nationally recognized leader in cybersecurity education, this investment would allow us to expand our Cybersecurity Program and enhance our students’ preparation in Space and Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity. I was overjoyed to hear from Congressman Crank that our project had been included in the House of Representatives FY26 CJS appropriations bill, which puts us one step closer to securing this funding for UCCS.”
Safety improvements at Constitution Avenue and Peterson Road
According to Congressman Crank, the proposed project aims to improve community safety through targeted infrastructure improvements, including the installation of improved crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and refuge areas. This intersection has experienced multiple pedestrian fatalities and 69 crashes in the past six years.
Replacing the aging storm sewer system
Congressman Crank said this project will replace the aging storm sewer system along Palmer Park Boulevard with reinforced concrete pipes, upsize the drainage lines, and install an additional 26 inlets throughout the area. The Palmer Park Drainage Improvement Project will address essential community needs by enhancing public safety, protecting infrastructure, and improving accessibility.
“On behalf of the entire Board of County Commissioners, we thank Congressman Jeff Crank for his work and support for these projects,” said Carrie Geitner, Chair of the Board of the El Paso County Commissioners. “His leadership has been instrumental in helping El Paso County address real infrastructure needs. These investments have a meaningful impact on the daily lives of our residents and businesses by improving safety and reliability on our local roads. I’m especially grateful for Representative Crank, his staff, and the Republican leadership in Washington who are prioritizing infrastructure, public safety, and the needs of communities like ours—without growing government in the process.”
