The largest shopping mall on the east coast will be getting bigger.   The expansion of King of Prussia Mall outside of Philadelphia will unite the two main shopping venues; the Court and the Plaza. 

Simon Property Group spokesman Les Morris says the project will add about 40 new stores, several restaurants, an upscale dining pavilion and customer lounge.  There’s no timetable set yet, because the group is still securing the needed approvals for construction.  He says they showed the plans to local officials in late October, and they’re very enthusiastic about it.

The project comes on the heels of work that’s already underway to convert the former Strawbridge building into a 100 thousand square foot space for 10 retailers, scheduled to open by the 2012 holiday season.

Morris says the timing of the new project coincides with the upcoming 50th anniversary of the mall.  The Plaza opened in 1963.   

Morris adds the new project is being fueled by retailer demand.