Disney and the DeSantis appointees have reached a new agreement that could lead to the company investing up to $17 billion into its Florida resort and potentially opening a fifth major theme park at Walt Disney World. The agreement, which was approved by the district’s board, will last for the next 15 years and allow Disney to make substantial investments in the theme park. In exchange for the approval to build a fifth major theme park and two minor parks, Disney must donate land for infrastructure projects, award half of its construction projects to Florida-based companies, and invest in affordable housing in central Florida.
The settlement in March ended a two-year legal battle between Disney and the DeSantis appointees, which was sparked by Disney’s opposition to a Florida law known as “Don’t Say Gay.” The controversial law banned classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades and was championed by Governor DeSantis. As a result of Disney’s opposition, DeSantis took control of the district from Disney supporters and appointed a new board of supervisors. Disney sued DeSantis and his appointees, claiming their free speech rights were violated, but the lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge. As part of the settlement, Disney agreed to put on hold the appeal of the federal lawsuit.
Before the district changed hands to DeSantis appointees, Disney supporters had signed agreements with the company that shifted control over design and construction at Disney World to Disney. The new appointees claimed these agreements limited their powers and sued Disney in state court to have them voided. Disney filed counterclaims to uphold the agreements, and these lawsuits were also dismissed as part of the March settlement. The new agreement between Disney and the district will allow the company to expand its property by increasing the number of hotel rooms, retail, and restaurant space, while also ensuring that Disney retains control of building heights to maintain an immersive environment.
Under the terms of the agreement, Disney will also be required to donate land for infrastructure projects controlled by the district and allocate funds for affordable housing in central Florida. The company must also prioritize Florida-based companies for construction projects. The agreement paves the way for substantial investment in Disney World over the next decade or two, including the potential construction of a fifth major theme park. The agreement marks a new chapter in the relationship between Disney and the DeSantis appointees, symbolizing a step towards cooperation and collaboration in the development of Disney World.
