New Resort Property/District for WDW

[AwallaceUNC]

From WDWMagic:

7 November 2006: Disney planning a new Western Beltway Property

Disney are rumored to be planning a new tourist and retail development near to the newly constructed Western Way junction with the Western Beltway. The focus of the development is set to be "value" based, and includes shopping, dining, and accommodation. Whilst not yet named, the project is currently labelled as the "Western Beltway Property".

Features:

* 270,000 sq ft retail town centre, expanding up to 400,000 sq ft at build-out
* Retail outlets
* Grocery store
* Casual sit-down dining
* Fast food locations
* Gas stores
* Convenience stores
* Gift stores
* 3100 value hotel rooms
* 1300 time share units
* Bus transportation stops

The project is currently divided into 5 phases, with the initial phase to include the hotel and retail town centre. Something that sets this apart from other developments, is the inclusion of elements such as a town centre, featuring a park, fountains and foot paths. The development is planned to be landscaped, and walker-friendly.

There is currently no timeline available, or confirmation that the project will go ahead. It is however in a detailed planning phase.

http://www.wdwmagic.com/around.htm

Okay, I'm excited! The "town" aspect sounds really cool... another world within the World. On the other hand, I can see it being a distraction from that sense of the "Disney bubble". Thoughts?

-Aaron

[Just Myself]

Well, I think if done right it could be pretty neat. Disney's great with taking something old and making it new again. Should be good...

Cheers,
JM

[MichaeLeah]

On the other hand, I can see it being a distraction from that sense of the "Disney bubble".

I am with you Aaron. When I read this the question I asked was "Why?" I wonder what Disney is trying to accomplish. I think it is really neat when the Imagineers try to tackle something new and exciting, but this sounds like a boring old development that we already have everywhere. I would hate for them to waste their property on stuff like this. I want to see them be more creative.

This kind of reminds me of my attitude about Downtown Disney (in Florida). There is a certain charm to it and it is fun to walk around, but on the other hand it just a big outdoor mall to squeeze a couple of extra bucks out of people. The parks are so much more fun.

This also reminds me of my disappointment over Main Street. They could make the stores more charming and old school but they turn most of it into a mega-Disney Store in the name of making more money.

Anyway, I think it is time for me to finish my rant of only half-way expressed ideas that lack continuity. I need to get back to my homework.

[Raydawggie]

A little "Disney village", huh? I like that idea. Would be nice not to have to leave the park for certain things.

[Fidget1234]

kinda reminds me of Celebration....but sounds better.