Work has started on the new fireworks launch site for Hollywood Studios. The new Hollywood Studios fireworks launch site will be across World Drive in a previously wooded area. Permits were filed with the state to start clearing the site in late December, but recent imagery from Nearmap gives us our first good look at it.
Here’s what the site looked like in November.
And here’s how it looked two weeks ago.
Here’s where it is in relation to Hollywood Studios.
Looking at the above image, and roughly overlaying the plans filed with the state, we can see that the launch site is actually going to be quite a bit off center from Hollywood Blvd. The red line represents a straight line down Hollywood Blvd.
Why this matters
The Symphony in the Stars fireworks are currently shot off a trailer from near the former Backlot Tour loading area. Because of how close the launch site is to guests, Toy Story Midway Mania and the Great Movie Ride are closed for usually the last hour or two of park operation. This new site will eliminate the need to close rides. Also, a site further from guest areas means that the fireworks won’t have to be cancelled due to unfavorable wind conditions, as it currently the case.
This plot of land is much bigger (read 28 times bigger) than even the Magic Kingdom fireworks launch site. It will be interesting to see if this site is used for anything else as well as what the view will be like from inside Hollywood Studios when this is finished.
Tags: Hollywood Studios fireworks launch site