Anaheim, California: Disneyland’s ambitious $1.9 billion expansion project, dubbed DisneylandForward, has received its final approval after the Anaheim City Council gave its nod on May 7.
The comprehensive proposal, first presented to the council during an April 17 meeting, garnered unanimous support from all members. However, the changes won’t take effect for another 30 days, according to a press release from the city.
Despite concerns voiced by several Anaheim residents about the impending expansion, the council unanimously voted to proceed with the project. Prior to this, the city’s Planning Commission had already accepted zoning changes and updates for the development on March 11.
Initially introduced during a January meeting, DisneylandForward entails Disney’s commitment to inject a minimum of $1.9 billion into the project over the next decade. This investment will focus on revamping rides, attractions, lands, lodging, entertainment, and shopping areas without expanding the park’s square footage or acreage.
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The proposed redevelopment extends to areas west of Disneyland Drive and the Toy Story Parking Area, potentially necessitating a total funding of up to $2.5 billion.
Beyond enhancing the park’s offerings, Disney aims to benefit the city of Anaheim through initiatives like affordable housing, a three-acre community park, and street and transportation upgrades.
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In anticipation of the expansion, Disney Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro teased potential themes for Disneyland’s future attractions, including beloved franchises like Frozen, Coco, Black Panther, Tangled, Peter Pan, Zootopia, Toy Story, and Tron. Some of these themes already exist in Disney’s other parks worldwide, such as Frozen Ever After at Epcot in Walt Disney World and Tron-themed coasters at Magic Kingdom in Disney World and Shanghai Disneyland.
