Work continues on the Meridian Exhibition Centre.

Winkler Mayor Martin Harder notes despite appearances, plenty of work is taking place below ground.

"It takes a long time to get over 500 piles in the ground and to do the infrastructure underneath, water and sewage. All that's being put in," Harder says.

He notes the electrical contract has been awarded and the mechanic tender is expected to be awarded soon.

"There's a lot of pre-work going in," he adds, noting the completion of the project next year will also be part of Manitoba's 150th celebration.

The $18 million construction will add a banquet space with seating for up to 1,200. The new 23,000 sq. ft multi-use exhibition hall will connect to the second arena with an atrium. In total, the expansion would have a 62,000 sq. ft. footprint, including a second floor space that would include room for spectating, an indoor track and meeting rooms.