Disney Springs in Orlando To Begin Phased Re-Opening on May 20
A phased reopening of Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida will begin on May 20, park officials just announced.
The rest of the Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and resort hotels.
"Following the guidance of government and health officials, a limited number of shopping and dining experiences that are owned by third-party operating participants will begin to open during this initial phase," Disney officials announced late Thursday afternoon.
Enhanced safety procedures for guests and employees will be put into place for guests of Disney Springs (including increased cleaning operations), they say.
The safety measures will include the use of appropriate face coverings by both Cast members and guests and limited contact guest services, today's release noted.
"We will apply learnings and ideas from leaders in the health and travel industries, and we’re also talking to our unions as we prepare for some Cast Members to return to work," the park said in Thursday's announcement.
Under the "new normal" life inside the park will certainly be different:
"During the initial opening phase, Disney Springs will have limitations on capacity, parking and operating hours," they wrote. "Given this unprecedented situation, we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate through this process as responsibly as we can."
The 120-acre complex (Disney Springs) was previously known as Downtown Disney and includes four areas: Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side. The venue has 104 shops, 64 dining options, and 24 play attractions (including shows and events), according to their official website.
Park officials say that they'll have more information about the phased re-opening in the coming weeks. Of course, the park's re-opening could indicate what life in similar venues will be like in the coming months as COVID-19 pandemic continues.