Baybrook Mall celebrated the opening of a 285,000-square-foot outdoor expansion with a ribbon cutting Nov. 18. The additional shopping and dining options complete the first phase of a 555,000-square-foot expansion, according to officials. “I’d like to welcome everybody to the new Baybrook Mall,” General Manager Jeff Gionnette said at the ceremony. Construction on the new outdoor area began in summer 2014. The expansion features a lawn in front of a 22-foot by 12-foot digital screen and a 30-foot by 13-foot stage for community gatherings in addition to 30 retailers and 10 restaurants or entertainment venues, officials said. “Quality of life for our residents is the heart and soul of successful economic development,” said Bob Mitchell, president of the Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership. “The continued success of this region is dependent upon projects just like this.” While many tenants—such as Dave & Buster’s and Z Gallerie—opened Nov. 18, all are expected to open by early 2016, according to officials. Tenants include Bar Louie, Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille, Kendra Scott, Lovesac, Star Cinema Grill and Yard House among others. Phase 2 of the expansion includes an additional 270,000-square-foot of space with big-box tenants, restaurants and entertainment venues. Phase 2 is expected to be complete in late 2016, officials said. “Baybrook Mall has been so important to the growth of this region for many, many years,” Mitchell said. “This expansion will also play a significant role in the continued growth of this region.”