In the world of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) enthusiasts, the buzz surrounding the fate of Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge has never really died down. Each time we’ve thought the project was shelved indefinitely, another bus driver rumor or piece of permit activity has reignited discussions and speculations about the future of this potential lakeside resort. Let’s take a look at the latest developments and see if Disney is once again considering the Reflections property as the future home of a DVC resort!
Recent Permitting Developments
First, it’s crucial to understand the context behind the recent buzz. Walt Disney Imagineering recently filed for a permit extension on a piece of land that was originally earmarked for the construction of Reflections. While I’m no expert in reading plans, a cursory review of the documents included indicates that this permit covers a significant parcel of land. Yes, it includes details and areas associated with Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge, with some documents outlining the proposed construction there. However, the scope of the plans extends beyond, covering areas from Disney’s Wilderness Lodge to Fort Wilderness, even including a proposed walking path connecting the two. I, for one, wouldn’t mind if that’s truly all we gained from this entire arrangement!
What Does Disney Want?
The essence of Walt Disney Imagineering’s request is a time extension on the existing permit, granting them the leeway to proceed with the proposed work at their discretion. According to a letter dated May 3rd, 2024, the project’s completion was delayed due to the COVID-19 shutdown, necessitating this extension request.
This move signals that Disney is seriously contemplating further development of this land. Given the prime location, it would be surprising if they chose not to pursue some form of development. However, whether it will manifest as Reflections in its originally proposed form remains to be seen. My gut suggests that while the development might proceed, Disney might “reimagine” the resort, altering its theme and overall concept while likely retaining the initial design framework due to the invested planning and resources.
The Palmetto DVC Trust Angle
Another layer to this unfolding story is the Palmetto DVC Trust. This trust encompasses a vast expanse of land surrounding the original Reflections site. A simple modification could easily integrate this property into the trust, presenting a streamlined and cohesive development strategy for Disney Vacation Club in this area.
Looking Ahead
I mentioned this on a recent episode of The DVC Show, but my guess is that we might hear more about this property at this year’s D23 Expo in Anaheim. With several years allocated for construction, the timeline seems feasible for selling the current inventory of Fort Wilderness Cabins, Riviera, and the upcoming Polynesian DVC Tower. If I were to speculate, I’d peg the estimated opening date for this mysterious project to be in late-2026 or early-2027.
While the details remain scarce and our knowledge based largely on speculation and permit filings, it’s clear that Disney has not abandoned its plans for this site. The extension request suggests movement and intent. Whether it will culminate in the realization of Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge or morph into a different concept altogether remains a tantalizing question I’m sure we will all continue to speculate.
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Kimber Abair
May 9, 2024I’ve heard they are already working on redoing (it used to exist) that walking path between Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge. Recent guests have said they’ve seen active work being there, including paving.
Marcy
May 9, 2024I think Disney is going into overload with the DVC resorts. The more resorts there are the more crowded the parks are and it is getting insane so that it is not as enjoyable as it used to be. And it costs so much more to go. With the loss of Fast Passes you either wait forever in lines or spend quite a bit on Lightening Lanes which are also long. For a family of 5 the costs have gone up significantly. I think they should pause a bit on new resorts.
Rick-n-Jane
May 9, 2024We have been DVC owners since 96 and I agree Marcy. Way too many resorts and not enough parks/attractions. Seems that there will be more DVC rooms than non-DVC rooms if it has not happened already. DVC used to feel a bit more special. Heck even the refurbs are being toned down. Our home resort is Boardwalk. The Refurb is BEIGE! BEIGE at BWV! They are turning what used to be a premium experience into just another HoJo’s And diluting the product along the way with a lot of new resorts.
I guess on the upside it should be easier to get reservations outside of the home resort.
Ok Rant over, but Marcy you really nailed what I have been feeling since our last trip in December.