EL PASO, Texas -- With more and more soldiers making El Paso home, adequate medical services is in the minds of many.

"They got to be at school as well. The school has a no tolerance for that. We like to get them in and out real fast," said Sgt. Domingo Chavez, a Fort Bliss soldier.

That's why U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes helped pass legislation providing millions of dollars for military construction. The measures fund over $1.5 billion for Fort Bliss, including $52.8 million for the planning and design of a new William Beaumont Army Medical Center.

"The Army has made a decision instead of remolding the existing hospital we're going to be building a brand new complex with multiple buildings," said Reyes.

Reyes said the existing medical center was designed for a base population of 12,000 to 14,000 soldiers. The 150-acre health care campus which will be located off loop 375 near the future interloop and will accommodate an increase of 40,000 to 45,000 soldiers and veterans as well.

"We anticipate that the partnership that currently exists with William Beaumont and Veteran's Clinic will continue. What it also means it that there will be an automatic upgrade of facilities," said Reyes.

Reyes estimate the hospital will be up and running in about three years. Included in the funding legislation is a 3.9 percent pay raise for service members.