Big things are happening at the domestic Disney Parks!
©Disney
Some major expansion projects are underway at BOTH Disney World and Disneyland — some with some very tangible progress. While things are moving along for all the projects announced by Disney at both theme park resorts, a few projects got some serious updates via recently filed permits!
First up was a new permit filed back in August for the Tropical Americas-themed Pueblo Esperanza in Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
DINOSAUR
The permit was filed to “install set elements” at DINOSAUR, and Mecca Productions, Inc. — which specializes in set designs and fabrication for theme parks and other venues — was listed as the contractor. While this permit could possibly have something to do with the new Indiana Jones ride replacing DINOUSAR, we think the permit likely pertains to minor updates that will maintain ride stability and presentation until it closes permanently on February 2nd, 2026 — along with the rest of DinoLand U.S.A.
DINOSAUR
The next permit could be a bit more significant. In October at Disneyland, Disney officially filed a permit to advance its big transportation hub plans.
©Disney
The permit was for the east side of the resort, where a new parking and transportation hub will be located. The new hub will provide around 6,000 parking spaces, as well as shuttle drop-off and pickup areas, dedicated spots for rideshare services, more security screening, and other features focused on accessibility. The permit’s language includes “East Esplanade” work, which will feature a 15-foot-long by 8-foot-high chain link fence. Construction will also feature the addition of a 128-foot-long and 8-foot-high wooden fence.
Disneyland Resort parking garage
Finally, back at Disney World, we got a major update on the new Monsters, Inc. Land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
©bioreconstruct on X
Two permits were filed in October — one for Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and another for Pizzerizzo. Both permits were for “general construction,” and work will be done by PCL Construction Services, Inc. Both restaurants are currently closed, but these now-defunct buildings will likely be transformed into useful spaces for the new land. Right now, for example, it appears Mama Melrose’s will be transformed into Harryhausen’s.
©Disney
As for the land itself, Disney has teased that it might be called Monstropolis (which makes all the sense in the world) and will feature a narrative picking up after the events of the first film. The land’s big attraction will be Disney’s very first suspended roller coaster! The new land will also feature a theater show.
©Disney
We’re always monitoring new permits filed by Disney, as well as checking out construction updates in person, so keep it posted right here at DFB for all the latest Disney Parks expansion news!
We’ve Got Some Bad News About Disney World’s New Indiana Jones Ride
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I hope Harryhausen’s doesn’t serve Japanese food. If it does, this will be another Disney World restaurant we will never eat at.
Wouldn’t it be great if they moved Monster’s Laugh Floor from MK and put it in Monstropolis at HS! That would free up more space at MK for a new attraction. Then they could add something else new to the area where Stitch used to be and improve that entire area into Tommorowland.