LAS VEGAS >> Local officials have approved casino giant MGM Resorts International’s plan for a new 20,000-seat indoor arena on the Las Vegas Strip.

The Clark County Zoning Commission approved the project’s land use and zoning applications Wednesday.

The $350 million project is being built in partnership with the entertainment company AEG. It will be located behind the New York-New York and Monte Carlo casinos.

Developers expect to break ground in the spring.

The facility will be privately financed and is expected to open in 2016 for concerts, boxing, mixed martial arts, award shows and other events.

Planners also hope to lure professional basketball and hockey teams, but no commitments have been announced.

Renderings show a sweeping 12-plus story glass and steel structure with a light-emitting display on more than 5 acres.