News Summary
Walt Disney World has obtained a permit extension for its major expansion project, which includes new attractions themed around the Cars franchise and Disney villains. This extension allows for the continuation of construction plans, including the demolition of the Rivers of America. The project aims to introduce exciting new attractions over a significant area and is anticipated to significantly enhance the park experience.
Walt Disney World Receives Permit Extension for Major Expansion
Walt Disney World has successfully secured a crucial permit extension related to its ambitious expansion project that includes new attractions for fans of the Cars franchise and Disney Villains. The extension enables the resort to continue plans for the demolition of the Rivers of America and the construction of a Cars-themed area in Frontierland, as well as a new land dedicated to Disney villains. This permit extension now extends until January 9, 2025.
Initially, Disney requested a 60-day extension, but the state authorities granted only a 30-day extension after the original permit faced delays. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has indicated that no further extensions will be granted beyond this date. Initial complications regarding the permitting processes came to light in September 2024, when SFWMD filed a Request for Additional Information, highlighting the extensive nature of the permitting requirements.
Construction Plans and Timeline
The project’s scope involves significant changes, including the draining and demolition of the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. To facilitate this, three large laydown yards will be established for staging construction equipment and materials. The original permit was filed in August 2024, shortly after Disney announced details at the D23 Expo, making this construction project a highly anticipated addition to Walt Disney World.
The Cars-themed expansion is set to replace the existing landscapes along the Rivers of America, and aims to introduce a new rally race attraction, delighting enthusiasts of the franchise. The first phase of construction will focus on these Cars-themed attractions, while a second phase will develop the upcoming Villains-themed land, which will be located northwest of Magic Kingdom.
While no concept art has been publicly released for the Villains land, the construction bid indicates that this area will cover approximately 14 acres and feature thrilling elements like a roller coaster and an indoor ride. The estimated bid for initial site preparation is around $50 million, although total construction costs for the rides are expected to soar into the hundreds of millions.
Permits and Approvals
Walt Disney World is working towards getting final approvals for the necessary water management operations, which encompass over 300 acres of forested areas situated northwest of Magic Kingdom. A new pond for water management, denoted as the 407 Basin project, is also an integral part of the overall Rivers of America project and aims to support the ecological balance in the area.
As for the construction timeline, Disney strives to kick-start construction by March 1st in connection with the Villains Land and Frontierland expansion. Anticipation continues to build as final permitting approvals are projected to come through early next week, although delays remain a possibility given the thorough nature of the permitting requests.
Impact on Guests and Ongoing Works
As excitement brews for the new expansions, discussions regarding the date of closure for the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island remain unresolved. Alongside this significant project, ongoing construction at the Pop Century Resort includes a lobby refresh, slated for July 2025, and continues through October 2025, including refurbishments of guest rooms.
Furthermore, Disney is also improving guest experience with the introduction of new Airport Luggage Transfer services for Southwest Airlines flights at Value Resorts, showcasing the company’s dedication to enhancing its offerings in tandem with major new attractions.
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Construction FL Resources
Additional Resources
- Blog Mickey: Villains Land Work Begins
- Wikipedia: Walt Disney World
- Disney Tourist Blog: Pop Century Resort Overhaul
- Google Search: Disney Villains land Magic Kingdom
- Disney Dining: Fan Favorite Rides Shut Down
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Disney
- Blog Mickey: Walt Disney World Railroad Announcement
- Google News: Walt Disney World expansion
Author: Construction FL News
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