Disney Approves Cars Land, Set to Destroy Tom Sawyer Island and More

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has given Disney the green light to commence construction on a freshly themed “Cars” area within Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. This decision will lead to the replacement of traditional attractions such as Tom Sawyer Island, and bring about substantial modifications in the Rivers of America, Frontierland, and Liberty Square.

As a movie-goer penning my thoughts, I find myself grappling with Disney’s decision, announced on February 17, 2025, to modify the 407 Basin Stormwater System. This alteration covers approximately 61.93 acres of wetlands and water surfaces. Disney assures us that they will offset these ecological changes by utilizing credits from their Disney Wilderness Preserve and Mira Lago sites. However, it seems that the public is not swayed by this corporate jargon.

While Disney is committed to adhering to state water quality regulations and the Clean Water Act, the crux of the matter lies elsewhere for many. It’s not about environmental concerns; it’s about the erosion of Magic Kingdom’s authentic narrative and enchantment, replaced yet again by a grab for intellectual property (IP) profits.

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve always cherished the serene charm of the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle riverboat – a timeless piece of classic Americana that has offered me a refreshing escape from the growing commercialization in the park. This nostalgic corner, with its tranquil vibe, has always been a unique oasis amidst the bustling landscape. However, the recent decision by Disney to demolish this cherished area for a new Cars-themed land feels like another instance where corporate interests are overpowering creativity and respect for heritage.

The new project will bring two Cars-themed attractions:

Option A offers a thrilling, high-speed race over rugged mountain landscapes, featuring geysers and tricky mud pits. On the other hand, option B is designed as a kid-friendly, car-themed experience tailored for our younger visitors, reminiscent of the beloved movie Cars.

The construction process is projected to start this year, with preliminary steps such as cleaning and leveling already in sight. While Disney officials view this as a fresh, exciting phase for the park, some long-term fans and purists of Disney see it as another impersonal expansion under the leadership of Josh D’Amaro, Disney Parks Chairman.

This change appears eerily reminiscent of the transformation from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Critics have often described it as lacking inspiration, functionality, and seemingly driven more by corporate promotion than creativity. The reception towards Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has been underwhelming at best, with many operational challenges faced since its debut. It seems that Frontierland might be heading down a similar path now, as its captivating narratives and historical value appear to be compromised in favor of a Pixar franchise.

Not only does this decision add to the disappointment, but Disney is contemplating taking away MuppetVision 3D, which was Jim Henson’s final project, in favor of a Monsters, Inc. themed area. The growing disregard for historic attractions and the creators who brought them to life has started to concern many fans. Previously known for its dedication to storytelling and creativity, Disney’s shift towards exploiting existing intellectual properties for commercial gain has left some supporters feeling disenchanted.

Although there seems to be a chance that things might not turn out as bleak, Disney historian Joshua Harris shared that the suspension of the Liberty Belle riverboat’s removal has been indefinitely postponed. Additionally, costly repairs have already begun on it. This sudden turn of events hints at the possibility that there could still be some optimism—for now. Furthermore, Harris mentioned that certain individuals within Disney are reconsidering their plans, stating that only parts of the Rivers of America will undergo changes, but the specifics regarding what remains and what is altered remain uncertain.

YES, there is absolutely a chance.

As a devoted cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that the delay in taking Liberty Belle out of service has been extended indefinitely! The good news doesn’t stop there; we’re diligently working on some costly repairs, particularly focusing on restoring her boiler (and other necessary areas), ensuring this grand dame of cinema continues to shine for years to come.

Also, A LOT of people are backtracking/gaslighting by saying only PART of the ROA is going away.

— Joshua L Harris (@JLHomni) February 17, 2025

Harris has asked fans to step up and make their voices heard by composing emails to Disney, voicing their disapproval of the current project. He highlighted that messages should be brief, courteous, and suitable for all audiences, as this is the most impactful approach. It’s unclear if the collective protest from fans will influence Disney’s decisions, but Harris’s appeal provides a possible strategy for those seeking to maintain the historical allure of the park.

In the exciting journey that Disney is embarking on, I, as a dedicated fan, am standing at a juncture, faced with a choice: embrace the corporate machine or champion the very essence that once enchanted the Magic Kingdom.

2025-02-18 17:55

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