Colorado’s U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton is asking for grant money to fund projects in the Roaring Fork and Fort Carson areas, according to a Friday release from his office.

Tipton made a case to the U.S. Department of Transportation for a $7.9 million grant in order to upgrade an existing maintenance building into a regional transit hub for the Roaring Fork area.

“I’ve heard from the Glenwood Springs community on how this project would greatly improve the transportation services in the three-county region, and I am glad to support their efforts in securing this grant money,” Tipton said.

He also wants to see more gates between Fountain and Pueblo for easier access to military bases.

“As Colorado welcomes back U.S. Space Command and continues to serve the many veterans in Southern Colorado, it’s important that the DOT ensure ease of access to these military bases for those who rely on the services provided there,” he said.

Tipton reiterated his support for a new rail connection for the Fort Carson Military Reservation, which he said could help veterans gain employment.

“The new rail spur is an opportunity for the creation of over 6,000 new jobs in economically disadvantaged areas of the local communities in Southern Colorado,” Tipton said. “This collaborative of local organizations is seeking to increase military preparedness at Fort Carson … and provide a heavy industrial rail park in Southern Colorado.”