In a quiet corner of Disney's Hollywood Studios, the mystery surrounding the steel structure located between the exit of Muppet*Vision 3D and Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano has taken another interesting turn.
Recent developments include the structure being freshly painted a light blue color, marking a noticeable change from its previous rusty red appearance. Disney typically uses the light blue color on structures that it wants to blend into the blue sky, as we have seen at various show buildings in the park. A new Notice of Commencement (NOC) construction permit for the area was also filed earlier this week.
Originally, this steel framework served as a support structure for a backlot cityscape facade and has had a varied history over the years. It has been the backdrop for several themed meet-and-greet experiences, including appearances by characters from Disney•Pixar's Cars and Disney Channel's Phineas and Ferb. While the structure has remained largely unused in recent years, its fresh coat of paint and the newly filed permit suggest it may soon find a new purpose.
Unfortunately, the NOC permit provides little insight into what might be planned. Its vague description only states, "Provide labor, material and/or electrical for construction," offering no details about the project. However, this structure is located within the area that is set to become the new Monsters Inc. Land, and this might be the first sign of progress on the redevelopment of the existing land into Monstropolis.
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