A DeSantis Disney World expansion project? Imagine stepping off your plane at Orlando International Airport and, within minutes, hopping onto a rail that takes you straight to the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort—no rental cars, no waiting in traffic.
This may soon be a reality for future guests, as a major transportation expansion is being considered that could transform the way you travel to one of the world’s most iconic destinations.
Could this be the future of Orlando vacations? Keep reading to discover the bold new plan in the works.
The Central Florida Transit Vision: What’s on the Table for Desantis, Disney World, and the Overall Guest Experience?
The excitement brewing in Central Florida is hard to ignore. According to the Orlando Business Journal, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the governing body for Walt Disney World Resort, is contemplating an investment in a groundbreaking transit initiative. This development would focus on a shared rail corridor, combining services from both SunRail and Brightline, two key rail operators that currently serve the region.
At a projected cost of $6 million for the study alone, this ambitious plan seeks a $500,000 contribution from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District to kickstart the project. The aim is to assess the feasibility of creating a rail link connecting key locations across Orlando, such as the Orlando International Airport, the Orange County Convention Center, and the vibrant South International Drive area. It’s a move that could fundamentally change how tourists—and locals—experience the area.
The idea is not just Disney’s. Central Florida’s leaders are backing this visionary project, with the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission already securing significant funding. The Florida Department of Transportation and Universal Destinations & Experiences have each committed $2 million, while additional support has come from Osceola and Seminole Counties, as well as the city of Orlando, each contributing $500,000.
Disney’s Role: Could This Be the Missing Link for Disney Springs?
But this isn’t just about improving local transit—it’s about expanding connectivity beyond the city’s boundaries. Brightline, the fast-growing intercity rail service, would also benefit from the expansion, potentially bringing the service all the way to Tampa, opening up even more travel opportunities for visitors from other regions.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this transit expansion is the potential inclusion of a SunRail station at Disney Springs. Disney World has previously expressed interest in a rail connection to Disney Springs, the resort’s iconic shopping, dining, and entertainment district. This development could finally pave the way for that long-awaited connection, something that could significantly enhance the guest experience by allowing for easier transportation between Walt Disney World and other major Orlando attractions.
The potential for a direct rail link from Disney Springs to Orlando International Airport would be a game-changer for Disney World guests. Imagine being able to skip the hassle of car rentals, parking fees, and long rides from the airport, all while enjoying a smooth and efficient rail journey.
How This Expansion Could Impact the Future of WDW Visits
In addition to making life easier for guests, this transit expansion is part of a broader strategy for Walt Disney World’s future. As part of a 15-year agreement finalized last year between Disney and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Disney committed to investing $17 billion into property development within the district over the next two decades. Of that total, at least $8 billion must be invested within the first 10 years of the agreement. With this level of commitment, it’s clear that Disney is poised to play a central role in shaping Orlando’s future—and this transportation project is just one piece of the puzzle.
The new rail corridor could open up new possibilities for development around Disney World and other areas in Central Florida. It would enhance the experience for guests and locals alike by providing a much-needed alternative to crowded roadways, and it would likely spur further economic development in the region, boosting tourism and helping local businesses thrive.
Additionally, the expansion could alleviate the stress and congestion often felt by guests traveling to the parks, particularly during peak seasons. The convenience of rail travel could make Disney World a more accessible destination for those coming from outside the state or even from different parts of the country. It’s a move that could not only streamline transportation but also create an even more enjoyable vacation experience for everyone.
Brightline’s Potential Role: The Bigger Picture
While the focus is currently on the SunRail connection, Brightline’s potential involvement in the expanded rail corridor is equally significant. The addition of Brightline service would allow visitors to travel more quickly between Orlando and other major cities, including Tampa. Brightline has already proven to be a reliable and convenient transportation option for travelers, and its expansion into the Orlando area would further bolster its growing network across the state.
The intercity rail service has already redefined how people travel between major Florida cities, and the proposed corridor could make it even easier for visitors to explore not just Walt Disney World but the broader region as well. Whether you’re coming for a theme park getaway or a business conference, this transportation upgrade would certainly make life easier.
The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District’s board of supervisors is scheduled to vote on the funding proposal for this major project on March 28. If approved, we could see groundbreaking steps toward transforming the way Orlando residents and visitors travel in the near future.
DeSantis and His Disney District Plan On Revolutionizing the Disney World Guest Experience
While it’s too soon to say exactly how this project will unfold, the potential for a more connected, accessible, and efficient travel experience is certainly something to watch. Will this change the way we plan our Disney World vacations? Only time will tell—but one thing is clear: it’s a step toward making Orlando an even more accessible and exciting destination for years to come.
What do you think about a possible SunRail station at Disney Springs? Would this make your future Disney World trips more convenient? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below about this DeSantis Disney World project!
The Orange/Kissimmee County area should do what south Florida has done and create their own system. There are federal and state funds available to assist. Brightline is a private company that is tax assisted. The Orlando-Tampa corridor is a very busy one. It would make sense to expand Brightline to Tampa. In the future, the west coast will need something similar because it is growing at an unbelievable pace.