Walt Disney Imagineering's plans to transform Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom into a new Cars-themed land have hit a minor speed bump.
The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has returned Disney's initial permit application, requesting additional information and revisions before the project can move forward.
The permit, which focuses on modifications to the stormwater management system behind Tom Sawyer Island and Big Thunder Mountain, was a necessary early step in preparing the land for its large-scale redevelopment. Disney had filed the permit as part of its plans to ensure proper water flow and environmental considerations for the new Cars-themed area, scheduled to begin construction in 2025.
However, the SFWMD identified several inconsistencies between Disney's construction plans and the previously approved conceptual designs. These issues primarily relate to wetland impacts and how the development might affect surrounding ecosystems. The District has requested further clarification on the proposed modifications to stormwater systems, the exact extent of wetland impacts, and the mitigation measures Disney will implement to protect the environment.
In addition, the SFWMD asked Disney to revise their construction plans to include detailed maps showing the current conditions of wetlands, as well as the areas expected to be affected by the new construction. These maps must outline the full extent of wetland boundaries, upland buffers, and other water management details. The permit review also pointed out that Disney needs to ensure the project's impact on local wildlife, especially any listed species, will be minimized and appropriately mitigated.
This delay doesn't signal the end of the project but highlights the rigorous environmental regulations Disney must follow to ensure compliance with local and state requirements. The returned permit is part of the usual process for large-scale developments, especially those in environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands.
At Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro, with the help of Tow Mater via video call, announced that a new area inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios film "Cars" will be coming to a reimagined section of Frontierland at Magic Kingdom. "The American West has always been about keeping your eyes on the horizon … believing in yourself, carving your own path, and striving toward success. That goes for miners in the mountains, bears from the country, a princess from the bayou … or a racecar from the big city," Josh told the crowd.
In this Cars adventure, guests will be able to experience two new "Cars"-themed attractions. One attraction will invite you on a thrilling rally race through the mountains. Take on wild terrain as you race across the landscape climbing mountain trails, dodging geysers and — Mater's favorite — splashing through mudholes.
The second attraction will be geared towards smaller guests and will be fun for the whole family. Work on this new space in Frontierland will begin in early 2025.
"As we develop the next generation of Disney Experiences, we're always looking for new ways to tell the stories people love," D'Amaro said. "We're thrilling Cars fans by building on this incredibly successful franchise and creating the next chapter in this story."
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