On Friday, May 15, 2020, The Walt Disney Company officially announced the plans for the Disney Springs phased reopening, which will begin on May 20, 2020. Although, the term “phased reopening” means that things will still be different from before. Only a few locations will be reopening first, with a limited guest capacity along with additional safety guidelines. While some of Disney Springs will be opening to the public, the rest of the Walt Disney World Resort will stay closed. This includes all of the theme parks and resort hotels, for now. Here is everything you need to know.
What Will Be Open?
For now, only the dining and shopping locations owned by third-party companies (not Disney) will be opening at Disney Springs.
Things Will Continue To Evolve and Change
The Walt Disney Company has also announced that as things reopen, they will be taking notes. They want to know what they can do better, what is working, what is not working, and how to keep guests and cast members safe. Some of these changes and plans will likely include: the use of face coverings and personal protective equipment for all, increased and intense cleaning procedures, and limited physical contact. There may also be temperature checks at security.
Cast Members
Disney has said that they are speaking with their unions about some cast members returning to work during this time. We are sure there is a lot more going into it than just “going back to work”. There may be additional safety training, limited hours, increased safety measures, and more. It probably won't be easy for Disney either. During this time, it is likely that a lot of cast members got “essential jobs” at grocery stores or wherever else to make ends meet during their furlough. With that said, and the fact that Disney is infamous for paying very little, it may be difficult to get all of their cast members back.
Official Statement from Disney:
“During the initial opening phase, Disney Springs will have limitations on capacity, parking and operating hours. Given this unprecedented situation, we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate through this process as responsibly as we can.”
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