Disney Springs will be begin its initial reopening this Wednesday, May 20, and in keeping the safety and well-being of guests, cast members and third-party operating participants at the front of their planning, and based on the CDC and other agencies Disney is implementing a number of new health and safety measures.
Next week, many third-party operating participants will open their doors to Disney Springs guests and a week later on May 27, three Disney-owned and -operated stores and venues will reopen: World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger (mobile order) and the Marketplace Co-Op.
Disney Springs has released the following health and safety requirements and operational changes that you need to know prior to your arrival:
Parking and Entrances: During this initial phase, guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime Garages. All surface lots will be closed. The number of entrances will be reduced to four locations: Orange and Lime Garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard pedestrian bridge and ride share location.
Appropriate Face Coverings: All guests 3 years of age and older, along with cast members and third-party operating-participant employees, will be required to wear an appropriate face covering while visiting Disney Springs. This is an important part of protecting both guests and cast members. Guests are required to bring their own face coverings before you arrive, as you’ll need to wear them over your nose and mouth at all times (except when sitting at a dining table).
Temperature Screenings: Once you arrive at Disney Springs, you and your party will be required to undergo temperature screenings with no-touch thermometers. Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance; those who again measure 100.4 degrees or higher will not be allowed entry, nor will those in their party.
Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures: To maintain appropriate physical distancing throughout Disney Springs during this initial phase, Disney Springs will limit the number of guests visiting the property and within each location. Ground markings will help promote proper distancing when queuing is required and physical barriers may be placed in select places where it’s difficult to maintain physical distancing.
Cleanliness: Cleaning and disinfection procedures in high-traffic areas such as elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more have increased. Hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer will be available.
Cashless Transactions: Disney Springs is recommending you use cashless payment options whenever possible during your visit to Disney Springs, including debit cards, credit cards, Disney gift cards, etc. You can also opt for contactless payment options or use cash to purchase a Disney gift card at the Welcome Center and select merchandise locations.
Reduced Hours: Many locations will have reduced hours and temporary closure of scheduled entertainment and high-touch interactive areas.
Disney cast members are going through extensive new training and there will be some cast members walking throughout Disney Springs to explain the new procedures and answer any questions. They will also be there to encourage everyone to follow these new measures for the health and safety of all.
Matt Simon, VP of Disney Springs knows this is a lot to take in, he states, "I understand this is a great deal of change to absorb, and I speak for all of us at Walt Disney World in thanking you for your cooperation and patience during this initial phase. Today’s world is different, and it’s going to require a shared responsibility, with everyone doing their part."
Please remember the theme parks and resort hotels remain temporarily closed, but the phased reopening of Disney Springs is a great milestone for the reopening of Disney Parks.
You can visit DisneySprings.com/reopening for the most current information on which locations are open.
News & Media Source: Disney Parks Blog