DANVILLE — The Danville Village Council gave a first reading Monday on a grant proposal that would provide funds for the building of an ODOT welcome center in the village.

The building, dubbed the “Gateway to Amish Country” welcome center, could have restrooms, a drinking fountain, and an area to collect information about local businesses and attractions along the county’s scenic byways. It could remain open 24 hours a day.

The project would be grant funded, requiring a 20 percent local match. The village would also maintain the building and would cover the cost of paving the associated parking lot, estimated at $10,500.

According to Mayor Bob Dile, Amy Shocken with the Community Development Corp. of Ohio, will be present at the next meeting to further discuss the grant proposal.

In other business:

•Police Sgt. Tom Looney reported he obtained two new radar systems for a total of $2,200. At its last meeting, council authorized the spending of up to $3,500 to purchase new radar equipment. According to Looney, the department’s radar guns are outdated, and the department needs an updated system to better monitor and catch speeders.

•Councilman Todd Didinger reported on the status of the Richards Street bridge, explaining to council that the load limit has been reduced to five tons due to degradation of the bridge’s materials.