Largest single-land expansion in Disney Parks history set to open in Orlando August 29, 2019
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Aug. 8, 2019) – With the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge set for August 29, Walt Disney World Resort continues its position as being a “force” for Florida and the economy, contributing more than 7,000 jobs to the Central Florida region since the beginning of the project in 2016. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, totaling 14 acres, is the largest single-themed land created in a Disney Park. It transports Guests to the planet of Batuu and pushes the boundaries of innovation and creativity, providing customized experiences to everyone who visits.
Among these new jobs are 1,700 operational roles, including leadership positions, entertainment performers, attractions engineers, and food and beverage and merchandise hosts and hostesses. These exciting expansions offer our Cast Members new opportunities to expand their skills and grow their careers all across our Resort. In addition, jobs were created due to the support of both small and large Florida-based companies contributing more than 5,500 local trade, artisan and construction roles.
“The anticipation for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is unlike anything else we’re experiencing at Walt Disney World Resort,” said Maribeth Bisienere, senior vice president, Walt Disney World Parks. “Our Cast Members make our parks uniquely special and we couldn’t create any of the memorable and immersive experiences for our Guests without their talents, passion and dedication.”
As part of the opening, the 1,700-member team had unique opportunities to learn about the story of this amazing new land, received specialized name tags and could customize their costume by hand-selecting apparel and accessories from an array of Resistance- and First Order-themed options, creating a unique Batuuan look and fully integrating them into life on the planet.
“I have such pride in our Cast Members and am so confident in the opening team as they bring Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to life,” said Phil Holmes, vice president of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. “This opening team is unparalleled and sets the stage in delivering out-of-this-galaxy experiences with guests traveling to Black Spire Outpost.”
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About Walt Disney World Resort
As the largest single-site employer in the United States, Walt Disney World Resort is a significant contributor to the Central Florida economy. Employing more than 75,000 Cast Members in more than 3,000 job classifications, Walt Disney World Resort offers many comprehensive benefits to Cast, including the education investment program, Disney Aspire. Walt Disney World Resort is also the largest single taxpayer in Central Florida, contributing $961 million in total state and local taxes paid and collected for 2018.
