A crane towering over Disney’s Contemporary Resort signals that Walt Disney World Resort’s years-long exterior refurbishment has entered another phase, this time reaching the North side of the Deluxe hotel’s iconic A-Frame building.
A Refurbishment Years in the Making
Work on Disney’s Contemporary Resort began back in September 2024, starting with Bay Lake Tower before eventually shifting to the main Contemporary Tower building. Scrim and scaffolding have gradually crept across the side of the A-Frame structure as construction has progressed.
Earlier this month, the project reached the Bay Lake-facing side of the resort, where Disney installed scaffolding and dark green construction walls.
Crane Signals New Phase of Construction
WDWNT reported on August 26 that a crane had arrived on the North side of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, marking the latest step in the ongoing exterior work. Photos shared by the outlet show much of the fourth-floor observation deck on the Contemporary Tower now blocked off with rolling planters, likely a safety measure given that the space sits directly beneath the crane’s arm. The crane itself is stationed in a service area on the building’s Northern side, cordoned off with orange traffic cones.
Beige scrim and scaffolding remain visible on the front of the Magic Kingdom Resort Area hotel as construction continues, though the fabric covering has shifted somewhat over time.
A Shifting Timeline
Walt Disney World Resort originally projected the refurbishment would wrap up by September 2025. That estimate was later pushed to July 2026, and the resort’s official webpage now states construction will continue through “late 2027.”
Despite the ongoing work, most of the guest experience at Disney’s Contemporary Resort remains unaffected. Monorail and bus transportation, pools, restaurants, and most hotel amenities are still available. Guests should simply expect some construction noise and visible activity during daytime hours throughout their stay.
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