5 Transportation Changes Coming Soon to Walt Disney World

Thursday, May 2, 2019 - 05:00

3. World Drive to enter new phase of redevelopment

Though the new overpass structure on World Drive has helped ease some of the traffic issues around the entrance of the Magic Kingdom, a second phase of redevelopment is set to kick off soon that will see an extension and realignment of World Drive and the associated ramps and frontage roads. According to a permit (which was posted on WDWMagic) Phase 2 of the World Drive extension will begin where Phase 1 ends near Floridian Way and east of the existing care care center. The end of Phase 2 ties in to Floridian Way approximately 800 feet south of Seven Seas Drive. The total project length is approximately 1.3 miles.

This second phase of redevelopment is currently still in the design and proposal phase, with construction tentatively scheduled to begin in late 2020.

4. New details released about Disney Skyliner project

Though we don't have an official opening date yet, Disney has been quietly testing its new Skyliner transportation option for several months now, suggesting that guests won't have to wait too much longer to check the Skyliner out for themselves. In the meantime though, Disney has released a new video (above) as well as new facts about this new system.

When it opens, the Disney Skyliner gondola system will feature 300 cabins, with 22 different character themes and eight vibrant colors. Each gondola is designed to accommodate up to 10 Guests, including those traveling with wheelchairs or assistive devices. With the system constantly in motion, most rides will take just a few minutes, and the cabins are specifically tailored to provide a relaxing ride in Florida’s climate.

5. Western Way extension now open

Image: Disney

One of the lesser known arteries into Walt Disney World is Western Way, which connects to SR 429 and routes guests near Disney's Animal Kingdom. And now, an extension of this road has officially opened near Flamingo Crossings, which currently is home to a few third-party hotels, and will eventually house a Disney College Program housing facility soon as well.

Amanda KondolojyView Profile

Managing editor of Theme Park Tourist and dark ride enthusiast. Amanda is a lifelong theme parks fan who lives just outside Orlando. When she’s not booking FastPass+ reservations, standing in a queue or eating the latest specialty cupcake, you can find her watching a Marvel movie, reading a book (probably by Neil Gaiman) or singing along to showtunes in her car. Contact: [email protected]