Ongoing safety issues at EPCOT, part of the Walt Disney World Resort, have garnered guests’ attention. Reports indicate that high-traffic areas within the Disney park‘s World Celebration neighborhood are in disrepair, leading to significant frustration among visitors. The persistent problems, which first emerged last month, are particularly concerning given the Disney park‘s reputation for providing a safe and family-friendly environment.
Construction Delays and Their Impact
The renovations intended to enhance EPCOT, particularly in the Future World area, faced significant setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially scheduled for completion in 2021, the prolonged timeline for construction left guests grappling with unfinished areas and operational inefficiencies.
The final construction walls only came down recently, revealing the completed versions of the World Celebration, World Nature, and World Discovery neighborhoods.
Visual Evidence of Deterioration
Photos shared by concerned guests vividly illustrate the extent of the deterioration within EPCOT. Many images feature loose pavement sections held together by what appears to be white tape, which demonstrates the patchwork nature of the repairs.
X (formerly Twitter) user @tomorrowventure reposted this photo:
Can someone at @DisneyParks please explain to us what the heck is happening at EPCOT and why the center of World Celebration is literally being held together with tape?
This is freaking Walt Disney World. Not the state fair. Good god this is awful.
https://twitter.com/tomorrowventure/status/1846149966416211989
The breakdown of adhesive materials and the resultant wear-and-tear not only mar the aesthetic experience of the park but also create potential tripping hazards, particularly for those using mobility aids like canes and wheelchairs.
Public Reaction and Concerns
The public reaction to the current state of EPCOT has been overwhelmingly negative, particularly on social media platforms. Many guests have taken to X and other platforms to share their frustrations and demand accountability from Disney.
“They care more about record profits than about us,” said @cltimbes. “It’s why I haven’t been back in years. I’m not going to spend my hard earned money when all their concerned about is ripping me off and making me wait even longer in line.”
They care more about record profits than about us. It's why I haven't been back in years. I'm not going to spend my hard earned money when all their concerned about is ripping me off and making me wait even longer in line.
— Chris Timbes (@cltimbes) October 16, 2024
@MelissaD813_ agreed:
Wow. I generally am not one to complain, I overlook a LOT of things that others don’t. But this situation with the center of World Celebration can’t be defended or overlooked anymore. What a sin.
https://twitter.com/MelissaD813_/status/1846517113315283300
Walt Disney World Resort’s Guest Services team welcomes feedback from Disney Park guests. Contact them with any concerns about your visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth.
Have you noticed maintenance issues at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, or Disney Springs? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments.
Please note that the story outlined in this article is based on a personal Disney Parks guest experience. No two guest experiences are alike, and this article does not necessarily align with Disney Fanatic’s personal views on Disney Park operations.
