In an updated webpage on the Disney Connect website, Disney has recommitted to spending billions and creating 13,000 new jobs at Walt Disney World over the next decade. In a “What is the Future of Disney Reedy Creek?” section, Disney said the following about its vision for Walt Disney World despite hostile action from the state of Florida:
Many have asked what the new legislation in Florida concerning the special taxing district means for district employees, our Central Florida community and Walt Disney World.
Our focus has always been on the future, and so it remains. We are ready to adjust to a new plan and continue to innovate to further our goal of inspiring and bringing joy to the millions of guests who visit Walt Disney World in Florida.
Disney has far exceeded anyone’s wildest dreams in terms of economic development. Originally, the company estimated it would invest $600 million in Florida over the course of the entire development. Disney has invested billions of dollars throughout the state of Florida, and employment at Walt Disney World Resort has grown to more than 75,000. It is one of the largest single-site employers in the country and the largest in the state of Florida.
Our investments in Florida will continue as we plan to invest billions in Walt Disney World Resort over the next decade. Our investment will create 13,000 new jobs and thousands of other indirect jobs that will attract more people to the state and generate more taxes.
We remain committed to giving back to our Central Florida community. Our Company and its cast members continue to show up as a positive force, actively seeking solutions that impact the people and places around us.
First announced in April 2023 by Disney CEO Bob Iger, Disney said that it would be investing $17 billion at Walt Disney World over the next decade. Then, in September 2023, Disney said that it would be investing $60 billion within its theme park division (since renamed Experiences) over the next decade. The investment would “nearly double” Disney’s investment in the division as Iger and company aim to “turbocharge” investment in the profitable division.
However, both Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro have thrown some water on the fire by hinting that the actions of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis might impact Disney’s willingness to invest at the level that they announced.
Just a month after announcing the planned $17 billion investment, Iger directly asked “does the state want us to invest more, employ more people, and pay more taxes or not?”
Then, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro said “…I remain optimistic about the direction of our Walt Disney World business. We have plans to invest $17 billion and create 13,000 jobs over the next ten years. I hope we’re able to do so…”
Disney executives have not mentioned the $17 billion investment for Walt Disney World in prepared remarks for the past two earnings calls, but the updated webpage does seem like a positive signal for Walt Disney World fans hoping for new expansions, new rides, and new experiences.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!