Theme Park Scope

Disneyland’s massive expansion plans just took another major step forward, and it could change how guests arrive at the resort for decades to come.

A significant piece of DisneylandForward is officially moving closer to reality.

According to new information shared by Workers United Local 50, Disneyland Resort’s Manchester Cast Member parking lot is expected to close later this month to make way for a massive new parking structure and transportation hub. The project is one of the first major infrastructure developments tied to Disneyland’s long-term expansion plans and will eventually help support several highly anticipated additions coming to Disney California Adventure.

Workers United Local 50, which represents many Disneyland cast members, says the Manchester parking lot will close beginning June 28, citing information provided by Disney Labor Relations.

Disneyland Resort has not yet publicly confirmed the closure date. However, if the timeline moves forward as planned, it would represent one of the biggest visible DisneylandForward milestones since the expansion project was approved.

The union also noted that there is currently no information regarding whether the Manchester lot will reopen for cast parking in the future.

Why Is Disneyland Closing the Parking Lot?

The closure clears the way for Disney’s planned Eastern Gateway parking structure and transportation hub.

Disney previously announced plans for a new arrival experience on the east side of Disneyland Resort that will include:

• Approximately 6,000 new parking spaces
• Shuttle and rideshare areas
• Security screening facilities
• Dedicated traffic access from Disney Way
• A new pedestrian bridge over Harbor Boulevard
• A redesigned guest arrival experience and esplanade access

Disney says the project is intended to improve both parking capacity and traffic flow throughout the resort area while preparing Disneyland Resort for future growth.

A New Pedestrian Bridge Is Also Planned

One of the most significant elements of the project is a pedestrian bridge that will span Harbor Boulevard.

The bridge will connect the new parking structure and transportation hub directly to Disneyland Resort while also providing public access to and from Harbor Boulevard.

This new arrival experience is expected to dramatically change how many guests enter Disneyland Resort in the future.

Construction Is Already Moving Forward

Additional progress has already been made behind the scenes.

Earlier this year, Disney filed permits to demolish Team Disney Anaheim East, a roughly 70,000-square-foot office building located between the Manchester and Pumbaa cast member parking lots.

According to permit filings, the building will be demolished, utilities will be capped, and the foundation will remain in place as part of preparations for future construction.

The recent issuance of demolition permits suggests Disney is continuing to move forward with preparations ahead of the larger construction project.

This Is Just the Beginning of DisneylandForward

While a parking garage might not sound as exciting as a new attraction, Disney has repeatedly described this project as the foundation for everything coming next.

The new transportation hub and parking structure are intended to support several major expansions already announced for Disney California Adventure, including:

Two New Avengers Campus Attractions

Disney is currently doubling the size of Avengers Campus with:

• Avengers Infinity Defense
• Stark Flight Lab

Both attractions are currently under construction and represent one of the largest expansions ever undertaken for the Marvel-themed land.

The New Coco Attraction

Disney has also confirmed a new Coco-themed attraction will be built near Paradise Gardens Park and Pixar Pier.

Construction is expected to begin backstage, with the project becoming Disney’s first major attraction inspired by Pixar’s beloved animated film.

The Avatar Experience

Disney also plans to transform part of the Hollywood Backlot into a new Avatar destination at Disney California Adventure.

While details remain limited, Disney has confirmed the project is in development and will be a major addition to the park’s future lineup.

What Happens Next?

Disney has previously stated that construction on the new parking structure and transportation hub is expected to begin in the fall.

A June closure of the Manchester Cast Member parking lot would allow Disney to begin site preparation work ahead of that timeline.

For Disneyland fans, this may not be the flashiest project tied to DisneylandForward, but it could end up being one of the most important. Before guests can experience new Avengers attractions, explore the world of Coco, or step into Pandora-inspired adventures, Disney first needs the infrastructure to support millions of additional visitors.

And now, it appears that the process is officially underway.

Be sure to keep checking back with Theme Park Scope for the latest DisneylandForward updates, construction milestones, Disney California Adventure expansion news, and Disney Parks announcements.