What's in store for Lucan and its $250K win?

The arena is the heart of small town Lucan-Biddulph.

For decades, the community's multi-purpose venue has opened its doors to minor league hockey games, wedding ceremonies and even popular St. Patrick's Day celebrations.

• Lucan wins! Kraft Hockeyville is coming to town

Now, with an extra $250,000 and an army of supporters — upcoming arena renovations are slated to bring in community-focused additions, including a new daycare centre and a seniors' area.

"It's the hub of our community. At some point, everybody is going to walk through those doors," said Mayor Cathy Burghardt-Jesson.

The township just north of London won the nationwide Kraft Hockeyville contest on Saturday. More than nine million votes were cast to determine a winner.

"The energy was like nothing I have never felt before. Driving in and out of Lucan for the last week — everybody had signs up, windows painted green, ribbons everywhere," said Burghardt-Jesson. 

"We won it on community spirit and community pride."

The town had painted itself green in honour of the colours of the town's local teams, named The Lucan Irish. 

Burghardt-Jesson said even the London Knights had vouched their support.

• Lucan turns green in pursuit of Kraft Hockeyville title

The victory means the town will get $250,000 for upgrades to its arena, $10,000 worth of hockey equipment from the National Hockey League Players' Association and a chance to host a NHL pre-season game.

Other additions may also include a new dressing room and swimming pool. More spaces for viewing, seating and warming areas are also in store.

The three other community finalists will receive $25,000. They include High River, Alta., Lafleche, Sask. and Huntingdon, Que.

Burghardt-Jesson said the overall project will cost about $13 million, with the hopes of receiving additional grant funding.

The first leg of renovations is set to begin this spring.