Title: Disneyland Forward $1.9 Billion Expansion Plan Receives Unanimous Approval from Anaheim City Council

In a significant milestone for Disneyland's ambitious expansion plans, the Anaheim City Council has unanimously approved the Disneyland Forward proposal. The $1.9 billion multi-decade project aims to transform Disneyland into a more immersive and diverse experience for visitors, adding new attractions and mixed-use amenities.

The approval followed an eight-hour public hearing, during which residents of Anaheim, Disneyland cast members, and officials from neighboring cities voiced their opinions on the advantages and challenges of the expansion plan. The 7-0 vote in favor of Disneyland Forward sets the stage for a final City Council vote on May 7, after which land-use modifications can pave the way for construction to begin within 30 days.

As part of the deal, Disneyland will purchase three roadways surrounding the resort — Magic Way, Hotel Way, and a section of Clementine Street — from the city for $40 million. This transaction ensures that Disneyland can proceed with its designated areas for expansion.

Disneyland Forward serves as a comprehensive guide for future developments at the iconic theme park, delineating where and how expansions will take place. The proposal also underscores Disney's commitment to investing in Anaheim, with estimated benefits including the creation of 4,584 new jobs during operations and additional jobs during the construction phase.

Disney's investment is expected to generate $253 million annually in economic output, $15 million in tax revenue, and contribute to the growth of the local workforce. Moreover, Disneyland aims to prioritize union labor, particularly targeting Anaheim residents and veterans, reaffirming its commitment to the community.

The development agreement, set to last until 2064, has an estimated total cost of $2.5 billion upon completion. Last September, an extensive 17,000-page environmental impact report was released, highlighting both positive and negative aspects of the expansion. While the report indicated potential impacts on air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise, the effects on transportation and neighborhood aesthetics were deemed minimal.

To facilitate the expansion, Disney is requesting the easing of zoning restrictions outlined in Anaheim's 1994 "Resort Specific Plan" for the Disneyland area. DisneyForward advocates for more flexibility, emphasizing that the integration of hotel, theme park, retail, and dining experiences is now essential to meet the evolving demands of visitors.

In exchange for the zoning concessions, Disney has committed to providing the city with $30 million for affordable housing, $8 million for parks, and $35 million for nearby road improvements. These contributions aim to enhance the overall infrastructure and quality of life within the community.

While DisneylandForward.com showcases several potential new attractions, such as a Frozen land and Tangled and Peter Pan-themed experiences for the original park, and Zootopia, Tron, and Toy Story elements for Disney's California Adventure, Disney has yet to finalize these plans. However, Disney CEO Bob Iger did confirm that a new Avatar-based attraction will soon be introduced at Disneyland.

Notably, Disney's proposed expansion plans include a major development to the west of the current parks near the Disneyland Hotel and another in the southeast of Disney's California Adventure, both areas currently utilized for parking.

The approval of the Disneyland Forward proposal marks an important step for Disneyland and the city of Anaheim. As the project moves forward, it promises to bring significant economic growth, job opportunities, and a renewed sense of immersive wonder to one of the world's most beloved theme parks.