ORLANDO, Fla. – Disney and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ appointees have reached an agreement that could lead to a $17 billion investment in Disney’s Florida resort and the possibility of a fifth major theme park at Walt Disney World. The agreement, subject to approval by the district’s five DeSantis-appointed supervisors, stems from a legal battle that was resolved in March.
The proposed agreement, set to last 15 years, outlines Disney’s plans to expand its property, potentially building a fifth major theme park and two additional minor parks. The company also aims to increase hotel rooms to over 53,000, expand retail and restaurant spaces by more than 20%, and maintain control over building heights to preserve an immersive environment.
In return for these developments, Disney has agreed to donate up to 100 acres of its land for infrastructure projects under the jurisdiction of the Central Florida Tourism and Oversight District. Additionally, the company commits to allocating at least half of its construction projects to Florida-based companies and investing a minimum of $10 million in affordable housing initiatives in central Florida.
The legal dispute that led to this agreement began nearly two years ago when DeSantis took control of the district from Disney allies following the company’s opposition to a controversial Florida law known as “Don’t Say Gay.” In response, Disney filed a lawsuit against DeSantis and his appointees, citing violations of free speech rights. The legal battles were resolved with a settlement in March, which also put on hold Disney’s appeal of a federal lawsuit.
Before the change of control in the governing district, Disney supporters had signed agreements transferring design and construction authority at Disney World to the company. However, the new DeSantis appointees argued that these agreements limited their powers, prompting a state court lawsuit. These lawsuits were dismissed as part of the settlement agreed upon in March.
The potential expansion and developments at Disney World signal a new chapter in the relationship between Disney and the state of Florida, following a period of legal disputes and conflicts over legislation. The upcoming vote by the district’s supervisors marks a pivotal moment in the implementation of the proposed agreement, potentially shaping the future of Disney’s presence in Florida.