A proposal to build a technical education center in Pittsburg that would serve southeast Kansas has received a boost.

The Pittsburg City Commission on Tuesday approved appropriating $300,000 in economic development loan funds for the center, which would offer education and training to high school, community college and adult students while also providing workforce training for southeast Kansas businesses.

The vote came after more than two years of discussion about the center, which will cost an estimated $1.3 million. The Bicknell Family Foundation has donated $1 million to help buy a building and 18 acres.

The Pittsburg Morning-Sun reports  a building in the Pittsburg Industrial Park that is currently used by Fort Scott Community College will house the center, with an expansion to allow additional programs.