The proposed expansion of Disneyland Resort, also known as DisneylandForward, has made significant strides towards becoming a reality. Approved by the Anaheim Planning Commission, the project now moves to the city council for final approval. This article provides an in-depth look at this landmark development and its potential implications.
The Approval Process
On March 12, 2024, the DisneylandForward project received the green light from the Anaheim Planning Commission. This crucial approval marks a significant milestone in the project’s timeline, bringing it one step closer to realization. The next and final stage of the approval process involves the city council, which will decide whether or not the ambitious expansion plans will go ahead.
DisneylandForward: An Overview
DisneylandForward is Disneyland Resort’s proposed expansion plan. It aims to bring new attractions, entertainment, dining, retail, and hotel experiences to the resort. The project is seen as a vital investment in Anaheim’s tourism industry, promising to generate economic benefits and create jobs for the local community.
New Lands and Attractions
DisneylandForward aims to bring novel experiences to Disneyland Resort. The project seeks inspiration from exciting new lands and adventures in development at Tokyo DisneySea and Shanghai Disneyland, with hopes of replicating their success.
For instance, guests might soon be able to visit Arendelle, the home of Elsa and Anna from ‘Frozen’, or embark on Rapunzel’s “best day ever” in a charming forest overseen by her tower. Perhaps they could even journey to the middle of Pixie Hollow, where Tinker Bell and her fairy friends reside, or follow the Lost Boys down a river in Neverland.
New Entertainment
DisneylandForward also looks to introduce some of Disney’s most advanced and immersive entertainment to California Adventure Park. This could include attractions currently under construction at other Disney parks around the globe.
For example, the Zootopia attraction at Shanghai Disneyland, which uses state-of-the-art technology to bring the fan-favorite movie and its characters to life, or the TRON Lightcycle Run roller coaster, a high-speed race for survival that exists in both Shanghai Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park in Florida.
Possible Map & Legend
A Disney Entertainment Destination
With updated approvals, Disneyland Resort could transform into an all-round entertainment destination, much like Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. The property could house restaurants, hotels, live music venues, shops, ticketed shows, and theme park experiences, catering not only to resort guests but also locals and conventioneers.
Parking & Transportation
To support future development over the next few decades, DisneylandForward plans to significantly invest in transportation, parking, transit, and pedestrian safety measures to improve mobility throughout The Anaheim Resort. The vision includes a new parking destination on the east side of The Anaheim Resort, complete with pedestrian bridges for enhanced entrance accessibility for hotels and businesses along Harbor Boulevard. Disney also plans to work with local businesses and the city to promote public transit and ride-sharing for cast and guests.
Potential Impact on Local Economy
The DisneylandForward project is expected to have a substantial impact on Anaheim’s economy. It could potentially create thousands of jobs during construction and even more once the expansion is complete and operational. Furthermore, the project promises to attract more visitors to the area, boosting local businesses and increasing revenue from tourism.
Next Steps for DisneylandForward
With the approval from the Anaheim Planning Commission, the DisneylandForward project now moves to the city council for final consideration. The council’s decision will be a determining factor in the future of Disneyland Resort and its role in Anaheim’s tourism industry.
The DisneylandForward project represents a significant investment in the future of Disneyland Resort and the city of Anaheim. Its approval by the Anaheim Planning Commission is a major step forward, but the final decision now rests with the city council.
Should the project receive final approval, it could bring about transformative changes to Disneyland Resort, creating new experiences for visitors and providing substantial economic benefits for the local community. As developments unfold, those interested in Disneyland Resort news should keep a close eye on the progress of this potentially game-changing project.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
