Credit: Inside The MagicSplash Mountain will soon live in a new reimagined-resurrection for a new Disney property. Disney is building a brand-new community where guests can live near and within Disney-owned properties.
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Storyliving by Disney
Storyliving by Disney represents a strategic venture and brand extension of The Walt Disney Company, officially unveiled on February 16, 2022. This initiative revolves around the collaborative creation of master-planned communities that harness the innovative expertise of Disney Imagineering and feature the involvement of Disney cast members. This visionary undertaking is part of The Walt Disney Company’s broader Disney Living Development, Inc. subsidiary.
The inaugural Storyliving by Disney community, known as Cotino, is currently under development in the scenic locale of Rancho Mirage, California. This project is a testament to Disney’s commitment to crafting exceptional living experiences imbued with the magic and creativity for which the company is renowned. Furthermore, Disney is actively exploring additional locations to expand the reach of this unique concept, anticipating the growth and appeal of Storyliving by Disney to resonate with individuals seeking immersive, community-centric living environments.
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Cotino Community Coming Soon
Cotino, nestled in Southern California’s picturesque Coachella Valley within the city of Rancho Mirage, stands as the inaugural Storyliving by Disney community currently in the development stages. This distinctive endeavor takes shape on land adjacent to, and once owned by, the renowned Annenberg Sunnylands Estate, signifying a harmonious blend of history and innovation.
Developed through a collaborative partnership with DMB Development LLC of Scottsdale, Arizona, Cotino is set to encompass a sprawling 618-acre (250 ha) mixed-use landscape. Within this master-planned community, an array of residential options, hotels, resort amenities, and a bustling retail center converge around a captivating 24-acre (9.7 ha) grand oasis and lagoon.
The name “Cotino” pays homage to the Cotinus, a genus of plant commonly known as the Smoketree. This choice is a heartfelt tribute to Walt Disney, who cherished the serene environs of the Smoke Tree Ranch in nearby Palm Springs. This destination held a special place in Disney’s heart, serving as a cherished retreat. So deep was Disney’s affection for the Ranch that the stylized STR emblem, representing Smoke Tree Ranch, adorned Walt’s tie on the iconic 1993 Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse statue known as “Partners.”
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Splash Mountain Reference Coming to Cotino?
The symbolic commencement of this remarkable undertaking occurred on April 23, 2022, during a groundbreaking ceremony that marked the beginning of construction. In a significant development, the Rancho Mirage Planning Commission tentatively approved the first 70-acre (28 ha) tract map on July 14, 2022.
However, it’s worth noting that the project faced opposition from some Coachella Valley residents, who voiced concerns about the ongoing megadrought and its potential environmental implications. Despite this, preparations are underway, and home sales are expected to kick off in early 2023, with the first homes ready for occupancy in early 2024, ushering in a new era of exceptional living experiences.
Aside from everything announced, Disney has unveiled new information on this property coming soon. Further details indicate that Splash Mountain references will be made throughout this new Disney property.
According to the official Storyliving by Disney site, there will be a ranch-themed dog park called Laughing Place Ranch. The “equestrian-themed” dog park will “be a favorite destination for “Man’s Best Friend.” The location will boast “rustic, ranchero-style play structures, especially for four-legged friends, and separate play areas will make this location ideal for your pet.”
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In June 2020, a significant announcement was made regarding the retheming of Disneyland and Magic Kingdom attractions, inspired by the beloved 2009 film The Princess and the Frog. Disney revealed that the planning and development of this project had commenced in 2019, preceding the emergence of online petitions during the George Floyd protests. This reimagining represents a creative and timely evolution of these attractions, aligning them with Disney’s commitment to storytelling and inclusivity.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will replace the former Splash Mountain Disney location at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort. The last remaining Splash Mountain attraction is located at Tokyo Disneyland in Japan. Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear have all been removed, along with the iconic mountain top. Disney Park will add Tianas Bayou Adventure to the newly installed New Orleans area in California. Princess Tiana will appear at the attraction, along with Mama Odie (likely to pay homage to Uncle Remus) and more. Walt Disney Imagineering is working hard to ensure this new attraction will boast some of the best animatronics inside Disneyland Park.
Disney California Adventure and the Magic Kingdom park will pay no homage to the Splash Mountain (Disneys Splash Mountain) ride. Tokyo Disney Resort remains the only location with this iconic and legendary attraction. Disney fans all around the country united to inform Disney Imagineers, the Walt Disney Company, and Disney CEO Bob Iger that the ride should have remained intact despite the controversy surrounding the attraction.