Potential Cars Land Permit Delay: What You Need to Know

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Hey Disney Vacationers. Walt Disney Imagineering’s ambitious plan to transform Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom into a new Cars-themed land has hit a slight speed bump. You might be wondering what’s going on and how it could impact your future visit. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details of this potential Cars Land permit delay and what it means for the project.

The Permit Hiccup: What Happened?

Disney recently submitted an initial permit application to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) as an early step in the project. This permit was crucial because it focuses on modifying the stormwater management system behind Tom Sawyer Island and Big Thunder Mountain. In short, it’s about making sure water flows properly and the environment is protected when they start building Cars Land.

However, SFWMD reviewed the permit and sent it back to Disney, requesting additional information and revisions. Why, you ask? Well, the district found some inconsistencies between Disney’s construction plans and the previously approved conceptual designs. These inconsistencies mostly revolve around potential wetland impacts and how the construction could affect the surrounding ecosystems.

What Does the SFWMD Want?

The SFWMD is asking for a few specific things before giving Disney the green light:

• Clarification on Stormwater Modifications: Disney needs to provide more details on how they plan to modify the stormwater systems. This involves explaining how water will be managed during and after construction.
• Wetland Impact Details: They want to know the exact extent of wetland impacts, including how the development might affect the environment.
• Mitigation Measures: Disney must outline what steps they’ll take to protect the environment during the construction.
• Detailed Maps: The SFWMD wants revised construction plans with detailed maps showing the current state of wetlands and the areas that will be affected. This includes outlining wetland boundaries, upland buffers, and other water management details.
• Wildlife Impact: Disney needs to ensure that the project’s impact on local wildlife, especially any listed species, is minimized and appropriately mitigated.

This Isn’t Disney’s First Rodeo

It’s important to note that this type of delay is not unusual for large-scale projects, especially those involving environmentally sensitive areas like wetlands. Disney has dealt with similar situations before. During the construction of TRON Lightcycle / Run, they had to revise their stormwater permits to address concerns around proper water management. In other words, this is just part of the process.

Why Is This So Important?

Water management is crucial for projects around the Magic Kingdom. Currently, the Rivers of America plays a key role in maintaining water levels, as it does connect to Seven Seas Lagoon. There’s even a water lock backstage used to drain the rivers when maintenance is needed. But this system water lock system might not be a long-term solution, and some rerouting of water could be required to accommodate the new Cars Land.

Cars Land Overview: What’s Coming?

Despite the permit delay, the excitement for Cars Land is still full throttle. At the recent Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase during D23, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, announced this thrilling new addition. In a special video call featuring Tow Mater, D’Amaro shared the vision of bringing the American West to life in a way that only Disney can.

Here’s a sneak peek at what you can expect:

• Attraction One: The Rally Race
  Buckle up for a thrilling rally race through the mountains! This ride will have you racing across rugged terrains, climbing steep trails, dodging geysers, and splashing through muddy paths—Mater’s favorite part, of course! It’s going to be an adrenaline-packed adventure that you won’t want to miss.
• Attraction Two: Family Fun
  Not everyone is a speed demon, and Disney has something for everyone. The second attraction is designed with the whole family in mind, ensuring even the smallest racers can join in on the fun.

What’s Next for the Permit?

This permit delay doesn’t mean the end of Cars Land, but it does mean Disney has some more paperwork to do. They’ll need to address the SFWMD’s concerns and resubmit the permit. Given Disney’s track record and dedication to environmental stewardship, they’re likely to make the necessary revisions and move forward.

The Bottom Line

If you’re excited about the new Cars Land at Magic Kingdom, don’t worry—this is just a minor detour on the road to an amazing new experience. Environmental regulations are rigorous for a reason, and Disney’s commitment to compliance ensures they’ll create a Cars Land that’s not only fun but also environmentally responsible. So, stay tuned for more updates as this project shifts gears and gets back on track for its scheduled construction start in 2025.

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?