The Vice President of Disney Springs, Matt Simon, has confirmed the phased reopening of the attraction will begin on the 20th May. The phased reopening will begin with a limited number of shopping and dining experiences, owned by third party operating participants. This follows advice and guidance from government health officials.
“Disney Springs will begin to re-open in a way that incorporates enhanced safety measures, including increased cleaning procedures, the use of appropriate face coverings by both cast members and guests, limited-contact guest services and additional safety training for cast members,” Disney Springs vice president Matt Simon wrote in a blog post.
The news of Disney Springs reopening comes just days after Disney announced that their parks had taken a $1 billion hit, following the shutdown caused by COVID-19. When the parks do eventually open, social distancing measures will be in place, and capacity will be limited, as we have seen at the Shanghai Disneyland.
“Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences and other offerings may be modified and will be limited in capacity and subject to limited availability or closure, based on direction from health experts and government officials to promote physical distancing,” Disney said in an update on its website.
Disney added that some attractions, experiences, services and amenities may have limited availability, or remain closed.
“Our focus remains on the health and safety of the entire Disney community—including the well-being of the cast members who are caring for and securing our parks and resorts during the closure,” the update said.
Although Disney Springs reopening can be seen as the start of attractions reopening in the US, the rest of Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and Disney Resort hotels, until further notice. More information regarding the opening of Disney Springs will be posted on the website leading up to the May 20th reopening date.
