Credit: Jason Lawrence, FlickrWalt Disney World Resort has installed a new safety feature for theme park guests, including the removal of the long-standing police presence at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here’s what to know before your next visit to the Central Florida Disney parks.
Security Update at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
On July 15, WDWNT reported that there was no longer an Orange County Sheriff’s Office vehicle parked outside the entrance to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In its place, Walt Disney World Resort had installed three concrete barriers, preventing anyone from intentionally or accidentally driving into the pedestrian walkway leading to the theme park gates.
The outlet shared this photo of guests walking toward the new barriers, located between the parking lot and the Disney Skyliner station, on social media:
The barrier also prevents unauthorized vehicles from entering certain parking areas. Guests appeared to adjust to the change immediately, walking behind the concrete structures for safe passage into Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Walt Disney World Resort hasn’t commented publicly on this change or indicated whether it will make the same change at EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, or the Transportation & Ticket Center (the only parking area for Magic Kingdom Park). It’s unclear whether this is a permanent or temporary replacement for the police vehicle.
Law enforcement presence hasn’t completely disappeared from Walt Disney World Resort. Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office remain stationed across Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and Disney Springs. Law enforcement officers help direct traffic, assist with security, issue trespass notices, and quickly respond to emergency calls at the Central Florida Disney parks.
Should Walt Disney World Resort maintain the police presence at its theme parks and Disney Springs? Inside the Magic would love to hear from you in the comments!
