A local real estate investor is adding to the retail mix along Kamehameha Highway in the 'Aiea-Waimalu area, with plans to open a neighborhood convenience center in six months.

Nakamura Investment Group, headed by David Nakamura, recently broke ground on the estimated $4 million project at the site of a former Shell gas station between Pearlridge Center and Waimalu Shopping Center.

The new project, called Pearl West Center, is designed for up to 10 single-story tenants expected to be a mix of quick-service restaurants, retailers and service shops.

Nakamura would not disclose names of prospective tenants because lease negotiations are ongoing, but said he is interested in users such as a bakery, dry cleaner, coffee shop and fast-food eateries.

Pearl West Center joins recent additions to the area that include Best Buy, renovations to Pearl Kai Shopping Center and several new tenants moving into Pearlridge such as Borders Books & Music, Local Motion, Starbucks, Price Busters, Fantastic Sams and Kay Jewelers.

"The whole area is being transformed," said Nakamura, who bought the Shell station property about a year ago. "We thought it was a great location."

Reach Andrew Gomes at agomes@honoluluadvertiser.com.