The city of Anaheim, California, home to the iconic Disneyland Resort, has approved a multi-billion-dollar expansion project that could transform the theme park over the next four decades. The project, known as DisneylandForward, aims to bring more rides, hotels, and entertainment options to the area.
According to reports from FOX 11 Los Angeles and the Associated Press, the expansion could potentially introduce new themed lands inspired by popular Disney franchises like "Wakanda," "Coco," "Frozen," and "Zootopia." Disney's senior vice president of global development and finance, Rachel Alde, expressed excitement about the opportunity to tell new stories and create immersive experiences for guests.
Despite the ambitious plans for expansion, the project will not increase the size of Disneyland's current 490-acre footprint. Instead, it would utilize a 50-acre parking lot to build new ride and entertainment attractions. This approach is not unprecedented, as Disney California Adventure Park, a 55-acre park within the resort, was built on a former Disneyland parking lot and opened in 2001.
Disneyland officials have emphasized their desire to create a more integrated guest experience by strategically placing hotels next to attractions. Suzi Brown, a representative from Disneyland, stated that this approach would allow for more immersive lands that cater to the expectations of modern visitors.
While the expansion of Disneyland is viewed as a positive development for the entertainment industry, there have been concerns raised about labor issues within the resort. Reports have highlighted disputes over wages and working conditions for maintenance workers and character performers at Disneyland.
As one of the most visited theme parks in the world, Disneyland continues to attract millions of guests each year, showcasing its enduring popularity and cultural significance since its opening in 1955.