Two hotels are breaking ground on a chunk of land just outside Disney's western entrance.
You may already have heard about Flamingo Crossings - a themed tourist district announced back in 2007 (and whose website hasn't been touched in years). A yucky economic environment prevented any vertical development, according to a Disney spokesperson.
But that changes next week.
On Oct. 16, construction of a SpringHill Suites and TownePlace Suites by Marriott begins. Disney is the developer, but - since it sold the land to Alaska-based JL Properties, Inc. - the hotels are not on "Disney property."
A JL Properties spokesperson says the hotels are slated to open in January 2016. Nearly 125 people will get full-time jobs. The project will add about 500 rooms.
In addition to the bells and whistles that come with a new hotel (resort-style pool, poolside bar, whirlpool spa, etc.), they're creating athletic facilities. Visiting teams will enjoy and benefit from the several sports practice fields with batting cages and picnic areas.
I asked a Disney spokesperson if these hotels guarantee progress with the rest of the announced tourist district. She says to expect announcements - like dining, retail, and grocery - to start rolling out next year.
But she was quick to say that Flamingo Crossings is not going to be another Disney Springs, which has a "broad appeal." Instead, it will accommodate the "value-conscious traveler."
Major brands continue to show interest, the spokesperson added. But not a single tenant has been locked in - yet.