Today, the Disney Parks Blog announced an expansion coming to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort as well as a reimagining at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Both of these resorts are considered “moderate” and could be a sign that Disney is reevaluating their moderate resort portfolio which have seen lower occupancy since the intoduction of Value Resorts like Pop Century and All-Star Resorts.
At Coronado Springs, the expansion will be anchored by the addition of a 500-room, 15-story building that will overlook the resort’s Lago Dorado lake while featuring rooftop dining. The project also is described as including a renovation of current rooms and landscaping.
Concept art for the new tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
At Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, it was announced that their “Centertown” complex, which features retail and dining, will be getting a makeover. The expansion will include new waterfront dining and retail shopping areas. As part of this work, buildings within Martinique and Barbados islands will be unavailable beginning this May.
Disney would not comment if this project is related to the rumored Disney Vacation Club additions to the resort. It would not be surprising that Disney would announce facility improvements prior to commencing regulatory filings for time-share units as this is what occurred as part of the Polynesian’s recent expansion. Disney wants to keep the Disney Vacation Club focus on the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
Both projects are expected to be completed over the next two years. It is unknown how these project relate to the rumored Gondola project or the Caribbean Beach expansion.