Disney Extends The Reflections Permit For Five Years: What It Means

Disney Vacation Club member, take note! Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a request for a 5-year extension on permits related to the development of the long-rumored Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge. This project is set to be a Disney Vacation Club resort nestled within Disney’s Fort Wilderness & Campgrounds. While many had assumed the project was canceled, if Disney extends the Reflections permit, they’re leaving the door open for the resort to rise again.

The Permit Request: Keeping Project 89 Alive

The permit extension specifically applies to Project 89 (phase 2), which involves the construction of Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge and its surrounding infrastructure, such as parking lots and backstage support buildings. In the permit request, Walt Disney Imagineering stated that the project remains incomplete due to COVID-19-related delays:

“We would like to request an extension of this permit as construction is not yet complete. This project was shut down during COVID-19 conditions and therefore delayed the completion of this project.”

Reflections’ Background: From River Country to Luxury Resort

The seeds of Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge were planted back in March 2018 when Disney World began exploring the development potential of the long-closed River Country water park site. This exploration was dubbed Project 89, and it included studies to evaluate land viability. In October 2018, Disney World officially announced the construction of a new, nature-themed resort that would complement the environment while providing guests with unique accommodations.

Slated to open in 2022, Reflections was planned to be a deluxe resort, boasting over 900 rooms and various types of Disney Vacation Club villas. As Terri Schultz, Senior VP and GM of Disney Vacation Club, emphasized:

“This resort experience will be a celebration of Walt Disney’s lifelong love and respect for nature, with some fun and even surprising accommodation types that families will find irresistible. It will give our members and guests yet another opportunity to stay in close proximity to all the newest attractions and experiences in our theme parks.”

Where Does This Leave Reflections Now?

The COVID-19 pandemic brought many projects to a grinding halt, including Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge. Despite site clearing and initial work, the site has remained dormant. Meanwhile, Disney pivoted to another project, a Disney Vacation Club tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This new tower is currently under development and is expected to open soon.

Still, this recent extension request indicates Walt Disney Imagineering’s intent to keep Project 89 alive. Although not a definitive confirmation, it is a sign that Disney wants to maintain flexibility in its development plans. The land is considered prime real estate within the Magic Kingdom resort area, making it a desirable location for potential expansion.

Future Implications: Connecting the Dots

Disney’s continued interest in developing more Disney Vacation Club properties, coupled with the strategic value of the land near the Magic Kingdom, points to intriguing possibilities. Furthermore, the concept art for the new Polynesian Resort Tower is believed to be inspired by Reflections’ original design. Therefore, should Disney move forward with Reflections, a new design might be in order—potentially one that aligns with the planned Disney Vacation Club cabins at Fort Wilderness.

Lastly, the ongoing expansion plans for the Magic Kingdom, including the rumored Beyond Big Thunder Mountain project, could signal the need for additional resorts. Though not yet confirmed, all signs point to a significant announcement at D23.

In summary, Disney’s permit extension for Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge is not only a beacon of hope for the project’s supporters but also a glimpse into the future of Disney World. The next five years will reveal whether this lakeside retreat emerges as a shining new destination or continues to be a vision on hold.

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!