New Test Track Permits Filed: Here’s What We Know So Far

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Hey Disney Vacationers! Big news! As Disney works on the next version of Test Track, Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a new Notice of Commencement permit for the installation of set elements. The permit, filed today, lists the Jon Richards Company as the contractor for this exciting project. While the details are scarce, we do know that the work is set to take place at the Test Track building. Let’s look at what the new Test Track permits tell us.

Who is the Jon Richards Company?

The Jon Richards Company is no stranger to Disney magic. Known for partnering with innovative thinkers, they create some of the most enchanting and memorable scenes, signs, and surroundings around the world. Their projects, both large and small, are opportunities to collaborate, create, and celebrate with extraordinary partners in environmental design.

With over 30 years of history, Jon Richards Company has worked with both Disney and Universal. Recently, they were listed as the contractor for the installation of signage at the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree at Magic Kingdom. They also worked on the Minion Blast at Universal Studios, and here are a few more notable projects:

• Toontown, Anaheim CA
• Animal Kingdom, Orlando FL
• Seuss Landing, Orlando FL
• Universal Globe, Orlando FL
• The Henry Ford Greenfield Village, Dearborn, MI
• Tokyo Disney Sea, Tokyo, Japan
• Mills Malls, USA
• Hong Kong Disney, Hong Kong
• Cars Land, Anaheim, CA
• DCA Buena Vista Street, Anaheim CA
• The Burbank Studio, Burbank CA
• Fantasy Faire, Anaheim CA

What’s Next for Test Track?

Imagineering has been pretty tight-lipped about the changes for the next version of Test Track. However, they have shared that “teams are reaching back into history for inspiration—from the original World of Motion—and bringing that spirit of optimism to the next iteration of the Test Track attraction.” They’ve released one piece of concept art for the interior of the ride, showing a forest scene in the former Responsiveness Test section, where your vehicle makes a series of s-turns as it climbs about 20 feet.

A Nod to History: World of Motion

For those who remember, World of Motion was the original attraction in the transportation pavilion at Epcot, opening in 1982 and closing in 1996 to make way for Test Track. Guests would board Omnimover vehicles and journey through scenes filled with Audio-Animatronic figures and projection effects, showcasing the history and achievements in transportation from the invention of the wheel to futuristic visions.

The grand finale featured CenterCore, a sparkling metropolis in perpetual motion, with futuristic vehicles brought to life through Pepper’s Ghost illusions. Visitors would then explore the TransCenter, an interactive area showcasing new products in development by GM.

When Can We Ride the New Test Track?

While Walt Disney World hasn’t announced a reopening date for Test Track, it’s likely the ride will remain closed until 2025. Rumor has it that the new version of Test Track could open in time for the spring break or summer period, giving fans something exciting to look forward to.

Stay tuned for more updates on the new Test Track permits and the exciting changes coming to this beloved attraction!

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