Animal Kingdom’s Newest Land Clears Another Hurdle With Latest Permit Approval

BIG things are happening in Disney World, but especially in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

First, It’s Tough To Be A Bug will be closing soon to make way for an all-new Zootopia attraction called Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, which is expected to open later this year. Dinoland, U.S.A. has already started its phased closure, so Disney can work on Pueblo Esperanza, a brand new Tropical Americas-themed land (and construction has officially started!). As a result, a permit was recently approved with the state of Florida for some infrastructure work for that land.

Disney filed a permit with the state of Florida on February 6th for changes to its existing infrastructure for the construction that will reimagine Dinoland over 12.87 acres. The state of Florida has officially approved that permit.

The project, titled Project RO, is set to focus on modifying “existing infrastructure to support renovations at the DinoLand, U.S.A.,” according to the permit filed from the South Florida Water Management District. This permit directly impacts the “enhancing and re-theming of the existing area with no change to land use.”

The modifications include DinoLand and backstage areas as well. The permit details the changes to a parking lot, sidewalks, utilities, and different drainage systems throughout the area.

This is a major hurdle for the project to clear so work can be continued on the new Pubelo Esperanza land that’s replacing the current themeing. Ground has already officially broken on the project which will include 3 new attractions as well as new shopping and dining options.

The land is set to bring stories from Encanto and Indiana Jones to life through dynamic rides and classic Spanish architecture. The land will also include a large hacienda that will also serve as one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Disney World.

Construction walls went up on January 13th, 2025, signaling the beginning of the changes coming to this area and this permit approval is just another step in the process. The land is expected to open to guests sometime in 2027.

For now, DinoLand is closing in phases with the first part already completed. The second phase will occur sometime in 2026 with Dinosaur, the signature attraction in this land, closing. Disney hasn’t confirmed when Dinosaur will close but did share that “2025 is your last year to visit before it goes extinct.” 

We are super excited to see this new land come to life but we will miss everything DinoLand, U.S.A. brought to life. We will continue to track the land’s progress as things grow and change. Don’t forget to follow AllEars for all of your Disney news and updates.

Everything we know about Pueblo Esperanza right here!

Tell us in the comments how you feel about the changes!