Josh D’Amaro Urges California to Allow Disneyland to Reopen in News Conference
Today, several Vice Presidents of the Walt Disney Company and even Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, Josh D’Amaro urged the state of California to issue guidelines so Disneyland can begin its phased reopening process. D’Amaro stated, “We are ready, and more importantly… it is time.”
Disneyland has been closed since the COVID-19 pandemic began back in March of this year. Since then, Walt Disney World and other Parks around the world have reopened with enhanced health and safety guidelines in place. Several health officials here in the United States have confirmed that there have been no cases of COVID-19 outbreaks since theme parks have began welcoming Guests again.
Photo: ABC
During the press conference, D’Amaro mentioned that over 80,000 jobs rely on Disneyland’s operations and the longer the Parks are closed, the more devastating the impacts will be.
Also featured during the press conference was Patrick Finnegan, Vice President of Disney California Adventure and Downtown Disney. He stated that none of the State of California’s tiered guidelines specifically address theme parks but they continue to be in contact with Governor Newsom. They hope to have official guidance from the state soon so an official Disneyland reopening date can be announced.
Image Credit: Disney
Once Disneyland does reopen, Finnergan confirmed that a theme park reservation system will be utilized – just like the Disney Park Pass system currently in use at Walt Disney World. Disneyland will also be increasing mobile order locations and introducing more contactless payment options once its reopens.
Finnegan is very excited for Avenger’s Campus to open at Disney California Adventure (hopefully) soon after Disneyland receives the green light from California to reopen.
Credit: latimes.com
Since Disneyland’s reach goes beyond the Parks, during the press conference, Finnegan announce that COVID testing will be expanded to area communities with more details to be announced at a later date.
Elizabeth Mullins, Vice President of Hotels and Resorts, added that she was “heartbroken” when the Parks closed back in March. She stated that Disney has continued to give furloughed Cast Members health insurance along with other benefits. When a furloughed Cast Member is recalled, they receive a Cast Care kit to encourage health and wellness.
Image Credit: Disney
After today’s press conference, all eyes are on Governor Newsom and the State of California to release theme park reopening guidelines. Let’s hope they listen to D’Amaro and Disneyland will be open sooner rather than later.
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