Yesterday, the Rivers of America and the Disneyland Railroad saw their last day of operation for what Disney believes will be around a year. While most fans knew that the temporary closures were due to the impending construction of Star Wars Land, few had much of an idea what the reopened attractions would look like.
Today, the Disney Parks Blog has shared some concept art featuring a new waterfront on the north side of the Rivers:
As you can see from this artist’s rendering, courtesy of Walt Disney Imagineering, this gorgeous new riverbank will also feature an elevated trestle over which the iconic Disneyland Railroad will travel.
A reopening date for the Rivers of America attractions and the Disneyland Railroad are still unknown at this time.
In a press release, the Disneyland Resort confirms that the Mark Twain and Columbia will continue to travel along the Rivers of America. Also, Pirate’s Liar is scheduled to return:
The Mark Twain Riverboat and Sailing Ship Columbia operate along the Rivers of America. Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island — a mysterious place rumored to have hidden treasure — is surrounded by the river.
When asked about the canoes, a Disneyland representative said that they do not have any information that they will not be returning at this time.
Regardless of what changes end up taking place, fans seem to be split on the how the decisions will affect the park. For example, Ken takes exception to where the Star Wars project is to be located while FanBoy is in favor of the park’s evolution.