PHOENIX — Ground was broken Wednesday on an expansion of the Mekong Plaza in Mesa’s Asian District, the city said.

The $10 million expansion project of the 100,000-square-foot plaza at the southwest corner of Main Street and Dobson Road is expected to be complete by July of next year.

Pre-signed leases have been secured for 60% of the new 35,000 square feet of space that will be added to the plaza, the city said in a press release.

“With Mekong Plaza at the heart of the Asian District, we are seeing tremendous demand for new and exciting Asian restaurants and businesses,” Drew Burtoni, development manager for Mekong Real Estate Investment Group, said in the release.

“Our focus will be Asian-centric and Asian-fusion eating and drinking establishments that attract a younger demographic looking for a vibrant dining and night-life experience.”

The Mekong Plaza, which opened in 2008 with fewer than 10 Asian-owned businesses, is at full capacity with 30 tenants that offer Asian cuisine, groceries, shops and service providers.

“I’m inspired to see Mekong Plaza expanding in our thriving Asian District,” Mayor John Giles said in the release.

“This part of our city is both a significant economic driver and the best place to experience Asian culture, food and traditions without leaving town.”

Arizona-based 3rd story is the architect of record for the design of the expansion project.

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