Hey Disney Vacationers! Disney has officially received approval from the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) for an environmental resource permit, setting the stage for Magic Kingdom’s highly anticipated Cars Land. This approval marks a major milestone in the transformation of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America into a new themed area based on Pixar’s Cars franchise. Now that the Magic Kingdom Cars Land permit is approved, let’s take a deeper look.
Permit Approval Details
On February 17, 2025, SFWMD granted Permit No. 48-111503-P, which allows modifications to the 407 Basin Stormwater System—a critical component in managing water flow and minimizing environmental impacts. This approval came after Disney addressed concerns related to wetland impacts and stormwater management, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
Key Facts About the Approved Permit:
- Total project area: 300.82 acres
- Wetland and surface water impact: 61.93 acres
- Mitigation efforts: Credits from the Disney Wilderness Preserve and Mira Lago sites
- Permit expiration date: February 17, 2030
Environmental Protections in Place
The approved permit includes updates to the stormwater system, such as new drainage structures and erosion control measures to maintain water quality and meet Clean Water Act standards. This ensures that the transformation of the area will have minimal long-term environmental impact.
What’s Next for Magic Kingdom’s Cars Land?
Now that the permit is secured, Disney can proceed with early site preparations, including land clearing and grading. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with two brand-new attractions confirmed for the new Cars Land expansion:
- High-Speed Rally Race – A thrilling attraction featuring mountainous terrain, geysers, and mudholes.
- Family-Friendly Cars Ride – A fun experience designed for younger guests.
At this time, Disney has not officially announced a closing date for the Liberty Bell or Tom Sawyer’s Island.
The Big Picture
This project signals Disney’s continued investment in Magic Kingdom’s future, bringing more immersive experiences to guests. With the environmental approvals secured, the road is officially open for Cars Land to take shape in the heart of Walt Disney World.
Stay tuned for updates as Disney moves forward with this exciting expansion!
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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!
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