Walt Disney World has run into a snafu regarding their upcoming expansions to the Magic Kingdom. Disney has planned for construction to begin on their upcoming Cars expansion meant to fill in the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. However, the permits haven’t been approved, and it looks like the new Cars area may not start construction in early 2025.
What is happening with the Walt Disney World Construction?
Disney tried filing permits to begin construction on the new Cars area last summer. The plans involved stormwater basin modifications, water distribution, and how it would impact the wetlands. At that time, the permits were denied, and the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) asked Disney for clarification and more information.
The area in question would contain the laydown yards, or staging area, where construction materials would go before work can begin.
Now, SFWMD has sent Disney a letter giving them 10 days to submit the information requested or withdraw the application.
“The additional information requested by letter on September 11, 2024 has not been received by the South Florida Water Management District (District). This information is necessary for the District to timely complete the processing of the above-referenced ERP application. The requested information was to be provided pursuant to the timelines outlined in Section 5.5.3.5, ERP AH, Vol. I to avoid denial of the application.
If you are not ready to submit a complete response you may voluntarily withdraw the application prior to the application being denied. If you elect to withdraw the application, Section 5.5.3.7, ERP AH, Vol. I, provides a process for you to refile the application within 365 days without the necessity to pay a new processing fee.
Should you fail to fully submit the requested information, or to withdraw the application, within 10 days of the date of this letter, the application will be considered incomplete and District staff will process the application for denial, without prejudice to your right to reapply at a later time.”
What is Disney’s response?
The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) has requested a 60-day extension for discussions between Walt Disney World and the state to rectify the issues and gain a permit.
However, at this point 60 days would put Disney into February before they could even start the construction on the Cars area. It could also push back the time table on the new Villains area as well.
It is unclear why Disney didn’t address the issues that (SFWMD) requested or why it took them filing a 10-day notice for CFTOD to move on a solution.
Given that Epic Universe is coming for Walt Disney World in 2025, one would think getting this done would have been a priority.
I’m not all that upset by it because I don’t want to see the Rivers of America completely removed, but Disney seems adamant. Given that they could charge more for Light Lane single attraction or Lighting Lane Premiere, it’s understandable why they want to put in another E-Ticket attraction.
What do you think? Comment and let us know!
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