The return of the PeopleMover to Disneyland is highly contingent on a significant redevelopment of Tomorrowland. It is not out of the question that this could occur sometime in the next 10 to 20 years, but it would require extensive changes to the current park infrastructure.
Understanding the PeopleMover's Potential Return
For the beloved PeopleMover to operate again in Disneyland, major construction and redesign would be necessary. This is not a simple matter of reopening an existing attraction but rather a comprehensive overhaul of a large section of the park.
Key Conditions for Reinstatement
The reintroduction of the PeopleMover hinges on substantial changes within Tomorrowland. Here’s a breakdown of the primary conditions:
- Extensive Demolition: Much of the existing infrastructure in Tomorrowland would need to be torn down. This implies that current attractions or structures occupying the PeopleMover's former path or necessary support areas would be removed.
- Comprehensive Redevelopment: Following demolition, a significant portion of Tomorrowland would require a complete redesign and rebuild. This would involve planning new layouts, ride paths, and support systems compatible with the PeopleMover's unique operational needs.
| Aspect | Current Status (Impediment) | Condition for PeopleMover Return | Potential Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomorrowland Layout | Utilized by existing attractions and structures. | Major demolition and redevelopment required. | 10-20 years |
| Infrastructure | Not designed to support the PeopleMover's former system. | New, dedicated infrastructure must be built. | Likely long-term |
| Investment | Significant capital needed for such a large-scale project. | Substantial financial commitment from Disney. | Dependent on plans |
The Legacy of the PeopleMover
The original PeopleMover, known as the WEDWay PeopleMover, was a continuous, high-capacity transportation system that offered guests a relaxed tour above Tomorrowland. It was an iconic part of Disneyland from 1967 to 1995. Its unique design, featuring individual cars moving along a track propelled by spinning tires embedded in the track, provided a unique vantage point of the land's attractions.
- Original Purpose: To demonstrate urban mass transit of the future and offer scenic views of Tomorrowland.
- Operating Period: 1967 – 1995.
- Reason for Closure: Primarily due to maintenance costs and the desire to replace it with a new attraction, which ultimately became the Rocket Rods.
Why Its Return is a Complex Undertaking
The path of the original PeopleMover is currently occupied or otherwise integrated into existing attractions and guest areas. For instance, sections of the track now weave through other rides, and the Tomorrowland landscape has evolved considerably since its closure. Installing a new PeopleMover system would necessitate:
- Rethinking Traffic Flow: The new attraction would need to integrate seamlessly with current guest flow and other rides.
- Structural Integrity: New foundations and elevated structures would be required to support the PeopleMover system, potentially impacting subterranean utilities and existing building integrity.
- Modernization: Any new PeopleMover would likely incorporate modern technology and safety standards, which could differ significantly from the original system.
While the concept of the PeopleMover's return is exciting for many park enthusiasts, it remains a long-term prospect tied directly to a potential large-scale transformation of Tomorrowland.
