Walt Disney World has provided an updated completion timeline for the ongoing expansion of the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. The project, which began with permit filings in April 2024, is set to significantly enhance the recreational offerings at the resort. With construction well underway, guests now have a clearer idea of when they can expect to enjoy the new and improved pool area.
This article will detail the project’s completion timeline, outline the scope of the expansion, and explain what guests can expect in terms of construction impact during their visits over the next couple of years.
Projected Completion and Timeline
According to a new notice published on the Walt Disney World website, the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool expansion project is scheduled to be completed by mid-2026. This announcement provides the first official end date for the construction, which has been in progress since early May 2025.
The full construction window is outlined as follows:
From early May 2025 through mid-2026, construction will take place near the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area.
DisneyThis timeframe establishes a roughly year-long period for the completion of the new pool and its surrounding amenities.
Details of the Pool Expansion
The project involves a significant expansion of the existing Meadow Swimmin’ Pool complex. Aerial photos show that the construction is taking place on the land formerly occupied by a tennis court and a volleyball area, adjacent to the current pool.
The centerpiece of the expansion is a brand-new, second swimming pool. Disney has confirmed this will be a zero-entry pool, making it easily accessible for guests of all ages and mobility levels. This addition is expected to effectively double the available space for guests to relax and swim, addressing the need for increased capacity at this popular resort.
In addition to the new pool, the project also includes the development of new recreational courts. The plans include one new tennis court and two pickleball courts, replacing and updating the previous facilities. Permits originally filed for the project also indicated the construction of a new 5,500-square-foot building, which will likely house restrooms, a pool bar, or other support services for the expanded area.
Guest Impact During Construction
Throughout the construction period, Disney has stated that both the existing Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and the Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool (the resort’s other quiet pool) will remain open for guest use. However, there will be some impact on the guest experience in the immediate vicinity of the work.
The official notice warns that seating availability around the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool may be limited. Guests should also anticipate seeing and hearing construction activity in the area during daytime hours. To help guests navigate the area, new signage has been posted to direct those using bus transportation to the pool entrance.
Conclusion
The expansion of the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool is a welcome development for Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, promising to add much-needed capacity and modern recreational facilities. With a clear completion timeline now set for mid-2026, guests can look forward to enjoying a new zero-entry pool and updated sports courts in the near future. While construction will continue for the next year, the existing pools remain open, ensuring that guests still have ample opportunity for swimming and relaxation during their stay.
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.
