Disney Granted Extension for Cars Land Expansion in Frontierland Until January 2025
Disney’s plans for a Cars-themed expansion in Frontierland are moving forward—albeit with a slight delay. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has approved Disney’s request for an extension to finalize plans related to the replacement of Rivers of America with new attractions inspired by Pixar’s Cars franchise. Originally given a ten-day deadline to update its stormwater management plans by December 13, Disney successfully secured a partial extension, with a new deadline set for January 9, 2025.
Related: Disney Requests 60-Day Extension to Update Cars Land Permit in the Magic Kingdom
This extension gives Disney more time to address critical questions about the environmental impact of the project, which involves filling in the current Rivers of America to make way for Cars-themed attractions. Central to the process is revising the stormwater management system that serves the area behind Tom Sawyer Island and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The system is vital for managing water flow and protecting the surrounding environment, ensuring that proper drainage and water movement are maintained even after significant alterations to the area.
Addressing Environmental Concerns
Disney’s updated plans must address several key issues identified by the SFWMD, including:
- Wetland Impacts: A detailed map of existing wetland conditions and an analysis of how the project will affect these areas.
- Stormwater Management: Plans to re-route and maintain the stormwater management system to minimize disruptions.
- Mitigation Strategies: A comprehensive proposal for offsetting any damage to wetlands, including restoration or creation of equivalent wetland areas.
- Wildlife Protection: Measures to safeguard local wildlife species, particularly those listed as vulnerable or endangered, during and after construction.
These considerations highlight the delicate balance Disney must achieve between creating immersive new attractions and upholding its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Related: Dumbo Interactive Playground Set for Refurbishment in the Magic Kingdom
What’s Next for Cars Land?
The Cars-themed expansion is part of a larger vision to reimagine Frontierland with a Pixar twist, blending classic Disney storytelling with new experiences for guests. While Disney works to finalize its updated plans, fans eagerly await more details about what this transformation will bring to Magic Kingdom. With the January 2025 deadline now in place, Disney has a clear timeline for meeting these critical requirements and pushing the project closer to breaking ground.
Stay tuned as this story develops and more details about the Cars expansion in Frontierland come to light!
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