The City of Winkler is hoping to kickstart construction on an arena expansion in 2018.

The Meridian Exhibition Centre was a priority at city council's recent annual planning session, Mayor Martin Harder says, with a pressing need for more ice surfaces. The Winkler Minor Hockey Association has 16 teams which receive 21 hours of ice time per week. Even with additional ice time in Plum Coulee, Miami and Roland they say their needs are not met. Also vying for ice time are the Winkler Flyers (MJHL), Winkler Royals (SEMHL), high school hockey teams and the Winkler Skating Club.

However, even without secured funding, the city is hoping to start "sooner rather than later," even if it requires downsizing the project's scope.

"Ideally we would like the federal and provincial partnership because then we can do what really needs to be done," Harder says.

The project includes multiple phases including a second arena, and even an indoor pool facility

Expropriation continues with the Stanley Agricultural Society, which currently owns the land adjacent to the Winkler Arena. The city needs the land to expand the arena, "we need to make sure that get's done so we're able to move forward," Harder says.

Coming off an exceptional year, the city is also focusing on capitalizing on the momentum and making sure infrastructure keeps up with growth.

Roads and infrastructure are coming in the Northlands Parkway Collegiate area for both residential and commercial expansion in the city's northeast corner.

"We know there is more pent-up demand coming," Harder says, adding there is a shortage of lots within the city.

Along with developing the city's fringes, council is eyeing added density in the downtown core. They've already heard a number of suggested maximum density limits from the city planning committee.

Next, they want to meet with developers and create a new plan for Winkler's future.

Industrial properties also continue to fill up in the new Clover Creek Industrial Park, which also looms large on council's five-year plan.