Has the Disneyland expansion progressed with the release of the Environmental Impact Report?

Disneyland, the iconic theme park located in Anaheim, California, is moving forward with its expansion plans. The city of Anaheim has recently released a comprehensive report that outlines the potential environmental impact of the proposed expansion, known as “Disneyland Forward.” The report, which spans a whopping 17,000 pages, offers both positive and negative insights.

According to the report, the expansion would have a significant impact on air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise. However, it would only have minimal effects on transportation and neighborhood aesthetics. Interestingly, the report also highlighted the fact that greenhouse gas emissions were not analyzed in the previous master plan approval in the 1990s. It stated that energy, water conservation, waste reduction, and sustainability efforts were already considered in previous reports, with many of those conservation measures already implemented.

To address any noise concerns, Disney would be required to construct temporary sound barriers during the expansion’s construction phase. Additionally, permanent 12-foot-tall noise barriers would be installed along property lines. To avoid excessive noise levels in surrounding communities, fireworks would also be prohibited in the expansion areas. The guidelines set by Disney include maintaining a certain distance of 200 to 300 feet from homes when constructing certain rides.

While specifics regarding new attractions, shops, and restaurants within the park’s existing footprint have not been disclosed, the focus of the expansion will be on underdeveloped areas around the resort that Disney already owns. The park’s overall size will remain unchanged. No cost estimates for the project have been provided yet, but the expansion will be privately funded.

Disney is optimistic about the project and aims to have it reviewed by the Anaheim City Council for approval by the end of 2024. As part of the process, a public workshop to discuss the Disneyland Forward environmental plan will be held on October 9 at Anaheim City Hall, as reported by the Orange County Register.

Disneyland’s expansion plans have sparked excitement among fans who are eager to see what new experiences and offerings the park will bring. However, concerns about potential environmental impacts must be carefully addressed and mitigated to ensure the long-term sustainability of the resort. With the release of the environmental impact report, stakeholders and the public can now better understand the project’s implications and actively participate in shaping its future.