Before its August recess, the House on Friday passed its version of the annual military construction appropriations bill that included $5.4 million for a new fire station at Hill Air Force Base.

"Growth at the base is always exciting, but there are certain things you need in place, like sufficient fire protection, before you can expand some areas," said Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah, who sought the funds. He said it will allow more development of the east side of the base.

The Senate Appropriations Committee last month included similar funding in its version of the bill, sought by Sen. Bob Bennett, R-Utah, who is a member of that committee. The full Senate has yet to consider that bill.

Both versions of the bill also include funding for construction of an F-22 maintenance facility at Hill, and money for a new hydrant fuel distribution system there that will place fuel bibs along the flight line to ensure easier, safer and more efficient fuel distribution.

Both bills also contain money to build a storage facility at Camp Williams.