Plans for the fifth phase of the Whistle Bend subdivision could take the next step forward this evening.

That’s when city council will vote on the subdivision of the 20.9 hectares of land off of Casca Boulevard.

It’s anticipated it would be 2019 before lots would be available for this phase of the city’s newest neighbourhood.

Pat Ross, the city’s manager of land and building services, made that confirmation last Monday night when questioned by Coun. Samson Hartland on the matter.

As it was highlighted in a report to council, it takes time for work on each phase to happen after the subdivision is approved.

This spring, for example, a lottery is anticipated for the sale of lots in Phase 3, which was approved in May 2016.

Meanwhile, construction for Phase 4, which had subdivision approval in November 2016, is underway.

“To ensure the continued development of the Whistle Bend subdivision, (developer) YG is now requesting approval for Phase 5 of the subdivision,” it was highlighted in a report to council.

“In accordance with the city’s subdivision and control bylaw 2012-16, council is the approving authority for subdivisions that result in the creation of six or more lots.”

In addition to the roadways and the like, the subdivision would establish a total of 100 single-family lots, 64 townhouse lots, two multi-family lots envisioned for apartment-style buildings, three large greenbelts, one lot for institutional use, and one park lot.

Access to the fifth phase section of Whistle Bend would be off of Casca Boulevard.

Efforts are now underway for the fifth phase.

Coun. Betty Irwin wondered what plans are in the works to handle the increased traffic on Mountainview Drive and Copper Road as Whistle Bend residents make their way to and from the downtown area.

Ross noted that there are engineering plans in place to address traffic flow as the area grows.

It’s expected there would be a phased-in “as needed” approach to the efforts, Ross added.