Disney Clears a Major Hurdle in the Demolition of the Rivers of America
Walt Disney World cleared a major hurdle in its planned demolition of the Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom today when the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) approved its application for stormwater modifications.
As a quick recap, Disney announced at last year’s D23: The Ultimate Fan Event that a new Cars area was coming to the Magic Kingdom. Eventually, it was revealed that the land would necessitate the demolition of The Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island.
Photo: Disney
With construction on the project set to start this year, Disney filed numerous permits with various governmental bodies to get the approval it needs to begin construction.
Permit Trouble
While these permits are usually routine, Disney has had some trouble with a permit relating to the draining of the Rivers of America. Beginning shortly after the project was announced, Disney has gone back and forth with the SFWMD.
Last November, the district returned Disney’s permit application and noted that they needed more information. If Disney did not amend the document and supply the requested information, the permit would be rejected.
Subsequently, Disney got an extension from the SFWMD and then filed an amended version of the permit last December.
Photo: South Florida Water Management District.
Now, after months of going back and forth, the SFWMD has approved Disney’s permit, clearing the way for the demolition of the Rivers of America to begin.
What the New Document Tells Us
Examining the approved permit, there is some information to be gleaned.
The permit not only covers the land that will eventually house the new Cars attractions, but also extends back to the future home of the Disney Villains land.
Photo: South Florida Water Management District.
Finally, it should be noted that the permit expires on February 17, 2030, five years after it was granted. That could give us an indication of when the transformation of Frontierland will be complete.
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