Walt Disney World will reopen the parks in phasesUpdate: Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings has approved the plan!
On Wednesday, May 27 the reopening plan for Walt Disney World was presented to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force. It was presented by Jim McPhee, Senior Vice President of Operations, Walt Disney World. Per the plan, the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will reopen on July 11, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT on July 15. Soft openings for Cast Members and invited guests will take place before that.
A reservation system will be required once the parks reopen, and capacity will be limited. All guests three and older and Cast Members will be required to wear face coverings. Hand sanitizing and handwashing stations will be added throughout the parks. Temperatures will be checked before entering. A touchless, handheld device will be used, similar to what is currently used as Disney Springs.
Physical distancing will be encouraged. Parades, fireworks, and other events that draw a crowd will be temporarily suspended. Meet and greets will temporarily be suspended and playgrounds closed. There will also be reduced capacity on transportation, as well as in the stores and restaurants.
The new Walt Disney World Health and Safety Protocols were mentioned. They include education, communication, and engagement. The Social Distancing Squad will expand to help guests to follow the rules. Contactless payments will be encouraged. Mobile Ordering will be expanded.
The proposal was approved by the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force. It will now be submitted to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. If he approves it, it will then be passed on to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.