Update 4/2/2021: Check out our latest Saratoga Springs refurbishment and construction update from April 2021!
While work continues on the refurbishment of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, legal battles behind the scenes are continuing to heat up!
As we shared earlier last year, in a lawsuit filed in Orange County Circuit Court, Validus Construction Services is suing for unspecified damages related to breach of contract and negligent misrepresentation as part of their agreement with DVC for renovations at Saratoga Springs.
Additional Lawsuits Filed
Orlando Sentinel reporter Gabrielle Russon recently updated us on these legal woes as refurbishment continues towards its Summer 2021 completion under new construction leadership. What was initially a single lawsuit against Disney has now spiraled into multiple, including a countersuit by Disney, as well as suits against Validus from at least seven subcontractors claiming the lack of payment for work performed on the Saratoga Springs project.
Disney’s countersuit filed in August 2020 claims damages in excess of $30,000 as a result of Valisus’ inability to complete the requested work timely, as well as a “failure or inability to make prompt payment to its subcontractors”.
Saratoga Springs Refurbishment Scope of Work
The construction agreement included in this countersuit highlights several noteworthy pieces of information regarding the Saratoga Springs refurbishment’s scope and timeline.
Initially signed in September 2018, the agreement’s scope of work included the refurbishment of all studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and grand villa units of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Noticeably absent is any mention of the nearby Treehouse Villas, which were constructed after the original resort and likely still several years away from a refurbishment.
The included construction schedule outlines that Validus would work on two buildings at a time, with an anticipated construction completion date of November 1st, 2020.
The supporting documents also outline the planned construction schedule as they work their way through the resort. Based on this information, it appears that refurbishment will progress through Saratoga Springs remaining buildings in the following order:
- Grandstand 9501-9836
- Grandstand 9101-9436
- Grandstand 8501-8836
- Grandstand 8101-8436
- Carousel 7101-7436
- Carousel 7501-7836
Both Validus and Disney appear to be prepared to see this legal battle through in the court system. Attorney Tucker Byrd, who represents Validus, stated to the Orlando Sentinel, “We’re definitely in this fight for the long haul … It’s the right thing to do.”
Stay tuned to DVC Fan, the DVC Fan Facebook Group, and The DIS for more information as it becomes available!
Source: Orlando Sentinel
