VIDALIA, La. &045; The Gateway and Welcome Center is inching closer to started construction, Vidalia Mayor Hyram Copeland said Thursday.

The low construction bid for the project, which was submitted by Don M. Barron Contractor Inc., will likely be accepted by the town early next week, Copeland said. Barron bid $4,000,500 with alternate bids of $54,000, $237,500 and $89,000. Nottingham Construction Inc. and Traxler Construction Inc. also made bids.

Vidalia City Manager Kenny Davis was working with the state to ensure the bid meets all requirements before the town can accept it, Copeland said. The bid must receive approval from the state.

&uot;We still have to clear it with the state,&uot; Copeland said.

&uot;We’re going to award it soon, it’s just a matter of doing everything right.&uot;

The Vidalia Board of Aldermen took bids from three companies under advisement at its Aug. 9 meeting. All three were for between $4 and $5 million.

The Gateway and Welcome Center, to be located on the Vidalia Riverfront, will serve as a convention center and place for visitors to learn about the city. In addition, it will house the Vidalia Chamber of Commerce and exhibits about the history of the area.