Disney Begins Clearing Land Ahead of Big Magic Kingdom Expansion

Some BIG things are happening in Disney World right now, especially in Magic Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom

Disney is getting ready to change the very FACE of Magic Kingdom by getting rid of the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island to add a new Cars expansion to Frontierland. However, there are also plans to add a brand new Villains-themed land to Magic Kingdom. Ahead of all the work that needs to be done, we recently spotted some land clearing happening near Magic Kingdom.

Now, we know Disney is moving ahead with the Cars expansion, but the company isn’t QUITE ready just yet to start actually building it. Most recently, Disney requested an extension to answer some questions on a permit about an area where it wants to build a treatment facility for stormwater drained from the area. That extension was granted, but Disney cannot continue with the work until the permit is approved. The initial permit mentioned Rivers of America, so that permit is likely for the Cars expansion.

Rivers of America

However, ahead of that permit’s approval, we spotted some land being cleared just west of Magic Kingdom, potentially for some roadway changes that also need to happen at the resort that may or may not be connected to the expansion. Note that Disney will also need land for staging areas before it starts the Magic Kingdom expansions, too. A LOT goes into these things, people! Anyway, here’s what we spotted near Maple Road and Floridian Parkway. This is a little over a mile from Magic Kingdom.

Some trees have been felled

Here’s what we spotted near Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, which is nearby (and close to Magic Kingdom). You can actually see the Polynesian in the background in this photo. We’re not sure what’s going on here, but this land is being cleared for SOMETHING.

Land clearing near Polynesian

We’ll keep an eye out for more construction and updates in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

5 Game-Changing Updates Announced for Magic Kingdom in 2025

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

What do you think? Are you worried about all the construction we’ll be seeing soon in and around Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!