Leavenworth ? The mayor of Leavenworth says residents would welcome construction of a second federal prison in the northeastern Kansas community.

The U.S. Bureau of Prisons is considering building a new facility on the grounds of the U.S. Penitentiary to house about 1,500 medium-security inmates. The proposal also includes a minimum-security camp for up to 300 inmates.

The St Joseph News-Press reports that Mayor Mark Preisinger told federal officials at a hearing Wednesday night the federal prison system provides “solid employment” for the city.

About 20 people spoke at the hearing, which focused on the environmental impact of the project. The News-Press reports that some expressed concerns about the effects on neighbors, but none voiced opposition.

Planning for the prison is in the early stages, with no timetable for construction yet in place.