Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service via Getty Images
Florida and Disney are moving toward approving a $17 billion development plan for Walt Disney World, a major turnaround from the long battle that began when Disney spoke out against the state’s education policies.
The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District is set to hold a public hearing on the development plan before voting whether to approve it on June 15.
“What you’ve seen is a huge kiss and make-up between Florida and Disney,” said theme park industry insider Dennis Speigel, CEO of International Theme Park Services.
While Disney has not confirmed specific plans, the investment could lead to the development of a much-rumored fifth theme park at Walt Disney World, joining Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
