Exciting news! Disneyland is set (as in committed) to a substantial $2.5 billion investment over the next decade as part of the ambitious Disneyland Forward proposal. Unveiled during a recent workshop with the Anaheim City Council, the proposal envisions a transformative expansion, bringing to life beloved Disney tales in new and captivating ways.
The proposed Disneyland Forward development agreement charts a course for the next four decades, aiming to update Anaheim’s city plan and create a dynamic mix of theme park, hotel, retail, dining, and entertainment experiences on the eastern and western edges of the Disneyland resort.
The heart of this expansion lies in potential projects inspired by iconic stories like Black Panther, Coco, Frozen, Tangled, Peter Pan, Zootopia, Toy Story, and Tron. These projects aim to fill the gaps in Anaheim’s current city planning and zoning guidelines, promising a magical landscape that captures the imaginations of Disney enthusiasts.
A significant portion of the $2.5 billion investment is earmarked for the development of theme park lands, attractions, hotels, shopping, and dining. The proposed expansion will stretch west of Disneyland Drive and extend into the Toy Story parking lot, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences.
Disneyland’s commitment goes beyond the financial investment, with plans for a 17,000-space eastside parking structure that boasts direct connections from the Santa Ana (I-5) Freeway. This structure, larger than the combined Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals parking facilities, aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for parkgoers.
To seamlessly connect the expanded areas, the proposal envisions up to three pedestrian bridges over Harbor Boulevard. These bridges will not only link the eastside parking structure to the Disney theme parks but also provide easy access to hotels, shops, and restaurants along the bustling street below.
The proposed development agreement also involves Disney purchasing portions of Magic Way, Clementine Street, Gene Autry Way, and Hotel Way for $40 million. Additionally, a $90 million investment is proposed for street improvements, including the widening of Katella Avenue on either side of Harbor Boulevard.
In a forward-looking move, Disney plans to revamp the entry gates at both theme parks, ensuring a welcoming and immersive experience for visitors. The company is also committed to contributing $30 million to affordable housing projects and $8 million for park improvements, demonstrating a holistic approach to community development.
Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock expressed pride in the Disneyland Forward initiative, emphasizing the positive benefits it brings to Anaheim residents. The proposed agreement, set to last until 2064, reflects Disney’s commitment to the long-term growth and enhancement of the Disneyland Resort.
As the proposal advances, the Anaheim Planning Commission is scheduled to conduct hearings in March, with the City Council expected to cast its vote in May. This marks a pivotal moment in Disneyland’s evolution, promising a future where enchanting tales come to life, creating lasting memories for generations to come.
FAQ’s
1. What is the Disneyland Forward proposal?
The Disneyland Forward proposal is an ambitious plan by Disneyland to invest $2.5 billion over the next decade for the expansion and transformation of the Disneyland Resort. It aims to update the city plan of Anaheim to include a mix of theme park, hotel, retail, dining, and entertainment experiences.
2. Which Disney stories are expected to inspire new projects under the Disneyland Forward proposal?
The proposal includes potential projects based on beloved Disney stories such as Black Panther, Coco, Frozen, Tangled, Peter Pan, Zootopia, Toy Story, and Tron. These projects aim to fill gaps in the current city planning and zoning guidelines.
3. What does the $2.5 billion investment cover?
The $2.5 billion investment will cover the development of theme park lands, attractions, hotels, shopping, and dining. It will extend west of Disneyland Drive and include the Toy Story parking lot, enhancing the overall experience for Disneyland visitors.
4. What infrastructure improvements are part of the Disneyland Forward proposal?
Disneyland plans to build a 17,000-space eastside parking structure with direct connections from the Santa Ana (I-5) Freeway. Additionally, up to three pedestrian bridges over Harbor Boulevard will connect the expanded areas to the Disney theme parks and other facilities.
5. How does the Disneyland Forward proposal contribute to the community?
Apart from the theme park expansion, Disney is committed to contributing $30 million to affordable housing projects and $8 million for park improvements. The proposal reflects a holistic approach to community development, ensuring positive benefits for Anaheim residents.
Co-Founder of the OFT Blog. Mother of 2 who disguises as a 9 to 5 finance professional on most days. She loves to travel, is an amateur website builder and cook. And given her day job, she loves travel planning and saving money. Follow along!
