Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a permit for the demolition of Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom, marking a significant development in the park’s ongoing evolution. This move is part of a larger vision for expanding Frontierland and introducing new immersive experiences to guests. Below, we’ll break down what the permit entails, the timeline for work, and the potential impact on the park.
Understanding the Demolition Permit
The permit, filed by Walt Disney Imagineering, designates NorthStar Contracting Group as the company responsible for managing the project. The scope of work includes demolition, infrastructure preparation, and utility modifications. The location for the work is identified as Tom Sawyer Island, which will permanently close to guests after its final operational day on July 6th, 2025.
According to the filed documents, the project’s duration is expected to last one year. If additional time is required, a new permit would need to be issued.
The Role of Tom Sawyer Island in Frontierland’s History
Tom Sawyer Island, nestled along the Rivers of America, has been a part of Frontierland since Magic Kingdom’s opening in 1971. Providing a more tranquil exploration experience, the island’s rustic trails and interactive play spaces offered a unique way for families to unwind amid the park’s liveliness. Its closure marks the end of an era and makes way for ambitious new attractions.
What’s Next for Frontierland?
The demolition of Tom Sawyer Island and modifications to the Rivers of America pave the way for a Cars-themed expansion within Frontierland. This development aims to merge the beloved charm of the original land with fresh, engaging attractions inspired by Cars characters and settings.
Additionally, the northern section of the current Tom Sawyer Island will be utilized for a new “Villains Land.” This area will highlight some of Disney’s most iconic antagonists and provide a different thematic offering to balance Magic Kingdom’s existing attractions. These updates suggest a future rich with new storytelling opportunities while honoring the land’s historical roots.
Timeline and Project Scope
The permit outlines a yearlong timeline for completing demolition and preliminary infrastructure work. It also includes utility modifications, which are expected to support the needs of the new attractions. Updates on construction progress and specific project milestones are anticipated in the coming months as permits advance and work begins.
Looking Ahead
The permit to demolish Tom Sawyer Island signals a new chapter for Magic Kingdom. While the decision comes with a sense of change for long-time parkgoers, it also reminds us of how Disney continues to innovate and expand its storytelling capabilities.
Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter for more developments, as additional details about this expansion are likely to emerge in the months ahead.
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.
