@@HeyBrickeyI love this content! WTH? I’m not allowed to comment? I’m thinking of making my own video on this. All I said was they have no money for anything right now. Garden walk would be hundreds of millions to obtain. And it will be for sale eventually. And I agree that the DF plan for another shopping district on toy story was probably the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. That plot is one hundred percent their third them park! I wasn’t criticizing YOU, just commenting on how ridiculous Disney is right now. That’s all😊
I think Brickey read your comment as a nay sayer. :) I think it would be a great idea but yeah, like you said - they got a cash problem atm. But I would love for them to acquire Garden Walk and expand Disneyland!
@@thebluetarp They don't have "zero cash." They're hurting by wall street standards, but they also have the money to spend $300 million to make a movie that... I don't want to say "flopped" because I really liked it, but it definitely underperformed. Every corporation as big as Disney has money, they're just not doing very good with it lately. As has been said, this isn't happening tomorrow, but you still need to keep in mind that when people say Disney has a cash problem, they don't mean the same thing as if you or I say we have a cash problem.
Love this video also. You definitely are the best Disneyland creative UA-camr out there. We just need to get the word out. You put so much heart into your videos.
Yes, buying Garden Walk is vital. A long time ago, l was informed of the vacant land on the East side of Garden Walk was being set aside for two Disney hotels, however run by outside companies. (1 hotel was built). The unique aspect of these 2 hotels is that the monorail was going to connect them to the existing Resort and the strawberry fields/parking lot/3rd gate.
I like the Collectable store they have at that Mall. Also this is where I park my car before my hotel becomes available. Parking is just $3 an hour with the first hour free.
I hope Disney is watching this video! The plan would put future development so close to the existing parks - a huge benefit over Disney World where everything is spread out over several miles. Well done, excellent content 👍
walt said that "the biggest mistake i made,was not buying enough land around the park"......because it created his park being surrounded by tacky motels,and other hangers -on looking to cash in on being next to disneyland...and it limited his ability to expand... this was the reason for WDW in florida....to have enough land to expand out...and do things the way he wanted to do them....while keeping his sightlines.if anahiem wants to make "a disney resort district",they need to work with disney to make it happen...and thats what "disney forward" is all about.
Yep, you're absolutely right about Garden Walk. I've been saying it for years that they will connect the Toy Story lot to Garden Walk for a 3rd gate. The new parking garage would feed the shopping district, which will feed the 3rd gate, which will feed back to retail and DVC. An endless loop for Disney.
Not enough parks for a week unless you are going to go to knotts berry farm or drive to Hollywood or see the ocean. WDW has a ton more to do in a week and they have a ton more parks in one place. If you stay at a Disney hotel at WDW you get free transportation from airport, to the parks, to the Disney spring mall, water parks, Epcot, etc. right in Front of your hotel. You don’t need a car.
I think your ideas have a lot of merit, but one hurdle (or perhaps opportunity) I see is that those sections of land are all broken up by dual or triple carriageway roads. I wonder what creative methods Disney can use to span the blocks seamlessly. The Disneyland Dr bridge is one example, but I'm sure they can do better as well. In some ways it comes back to Walt's original ideas about efficient urban design, I'd love to see that theme brought through with something like underground light rail, or maybe just make it entirely walkable, similarly to the Las Vegas strip where you can walk from building to building and not know you've just walked 3 blocks.
Hey Brickey. I think your thought process makes sense. If Walt was alive, I think he would have jumped at the chance to buy that mall and expand. I was dissapointed that during 2020 and the closure, that they didn't take that time to really go maintenance crazy and also plus the parks. I think they misses the boat here as well. I say that with respect and hope. Were a long time Disney family, my parents started coming to Dland in 1955. Family friend was an early imagineer.
They absolutely should have spent the time to do maintenance, but I can understand them not wanting to be too aggressive about expansion plans during such a tumultuous time when people didn't really know what was going to be happening next or when "next" would even be
I work in the power industry, The areas you showed can’t have anything built there because of those big Power Poles - they are 69KV transmission Power lines that feed all the power to the parks, the areas underneath those poles are right of ways and nothing besides maybe a nursery can be put under those lines, also - they are such high power lines they just can’t be relocated to another spot easily. High power lines like that have been deemed not OK for people to be under or around long term due to potential health reasons from the induction the lines produce. In theory the Power lines “could” probably be put way underground but that would cost a Massive Pile of cash to accomplish - and I still am not sure if the ground above it can be used for the public. Anaheim also has its own power company (its not Edison), and they simply don’t have the deep pockets that other Mega power companies have so I am sure Disney would have to fund that Power line relocation project Hans Solo - and just the project to put those lines underground alone would take a few years.
“If you’re not a designer or a creative…” you just might want to become one after watching these videos. I’m inspired by this visionary. Thanks, Brickey! 7:26
Hey Brickey, that empty area along Disney way is under the high voltage lines. You can't build permanent structures in these zones. You could define have this area be a landscaped pedestrian walkway. Love the vid!
Going to Anaheim for the first time in September, all the way from Scotland. Thank you for all your videos, always so informative and great for getting a sense of the area surrounding the parks!
I absolutely love this series. Not only are you showing us your great vision and imagination, but you're teaching us to use ours. Very eye-opening and educational.
If the DVC tower would have sold out right away, I can see how the purchase would be a no-brainer. But I don't see them investing in more DVC unless they make it half and half like the Riviera. I love that you're taking the time to walk around and explain things. I've been there countless times but not a local and no familiar with the area.
I have to add a second comment. Brickey, you clearly put a lot of thought into this video and thinking through these scenarios. I know you don't want to hear this, but they should hire you (OK maybe as a consultant 😅).
Your hypothesis is logical. Since the days of Eisner, the land east of Harbor Boulevard has been in play. But the turbulent national economy during each successive decade since the 70s has made for short term boom and bust cycles, too short for Anaheim to fall into line at Cityhall. Unfortunately the economy continues to boom & bust cycles in rapid succession, complicated by the defeat of traditional retailers to online retailers. When & if Disney pulls a trigger on Garden Walk is too difficult to predict.
Really enjoying this, niche as it is. This is super unique content that isn't just "Top Ten Snacks" or, as you said, "reviewing the new popcorn bucket".. it might not be the clickbait of "top ten trash cans of Disneyland" but I'm digging it. ...actually, a video on the trash can design would be kind of cool, now that I think about it...
Like all this speculation. Makes a lot of sense and the development of the Toy Story lot would be a boon to all those Harbor / Karelia hotels and businesses. Look forward to more of these!
It makes sense for Gardenwalk to stay retail and they could make some of the parking floors for CMs too. Then 2/3 of the existing CM lot could be the new parking and transportation hub with garages and the last 1/3 the CM garage. Size-wise Toy Story looks comparable to DCA; there is just a lot of residential and business next to it. Disney could run shuttles straight down Clementine between the parks and maybe there’s enough room next to the power lines for a Skyliner? Great work as always
Pretty much agree. The parking lot is not particularly well engineered for high flow parking, such as occurs before park opening and after fireworks. It is marginally suitable for normal spread out flow you get with retail and dining on-site.. Not good for traffic flow or pedestrian traffic at any time. (I worked for RT&P for several years and worked at Gardenwalk many times when DL used it for parking.) Also, I wouldn't bet against the property already being owned by Disney., with constraints from deeds or zoning issues.
Brickey, you are talking the plan that seemed obvious to me since 2018. Would not surprise me if Disney already helped finance the 2019 purchase of Gardenwalk in 2019 thru an aliased 3rd party, with the first option for outright buy once certain conditions are met. Disney knew 2019 was too early to outlay the cash, but if zoning rules loosen, they can put existing business options in motion.
Fun and thought-provoking series. Appreciate the time and effort put forward. We'll have to wait and see what Disney has planned, but you ideas are spot-on! Thanks!
The Disney Co should have bought the acreage under Gardenwalk when the land was still available. Major oversight on their part to not have done that. But financing is always a tricky game---eg, Disney's parks in France have been generally in the red for yrs. Meanwhile, too bad too the Edison Co never undergrounded their high-tension power lines that straddle the east & south sides of Disney's properties. That was talked about yrs ago, but the high price to do that scared off Disney & Anaheim city hall. However, when prepping for their 2012 Olympics, London re-routed a similar system below grade. The photo of the old Melodyland theater hints at just how substandard was the neighborhood around DL for over 40 yrs, which Walt Disney was fully aware of. That was finally cleaned up in the late 1990s. As for Hollywood Land of DCA, that should have been improved a long time ago. It's now over 20 yrs since it was built, & tearing it down & combining it with the adjoining bus loading area is the least the Disney Co should do. Given what's being built at the Disney parks in Tokyo, an area in DCA that has all the charm of a light industrial park (a fake backlot with exposed trusses? Really, Disney?) needs to be torn down & totally redesigned.
Great video! I've agreed with this idea for years. It just makes logical sense. People taliing about Disney not having enough money or The Garden Walk wouldnt sell, are just naieve. History shows, when Disney wants to do something, they do it
I was amazed when Disney didn't buy GW when it was available. Or ... is it possible they DID? Could the current owner be a shell company ala "The Florida Project"? 🤔
I agree with you. Should Disney purchase the Garden Walk, it would be a special connection piece between parks. Years ago, we used the parking lot area right off Disney Way and it was so convenient - To have that as a parking structure as you mentioned would be instrumental and actually relieve vehicular congestion along Harbor Blvd. Enjoy your videos and keep up the good work!
Glad to see Jeff getting a new job giving advice to passerby's, Great Video Brickey, I think with Disney buying the place its all about timing and clearly the last time it was up for sale was just not the right time as they were heavily invested and finishing up Galaxy's edge and other projects. Maybe next time they will have more cash at the ready.
To your point when we visited for the first time last May we stayed at the Hampton INN across the street from this Garden Walk area. Never once did we set foot in there because it wasn’t part of Disney but we made the walk to DT several nights. We had no idea what was in that area and just walked by simply because it wasn’t part of Disney 🤷🏻♂️
I like your vision brickey! And I’m on your team! If more retail establishments want to come to downtown Disney, I don’t see why they can’t buy garden walk to accommodate them. Disney really needs to buy it soon so they can expand a bit more. I’m looking forward to your next video about the future of the Toy Story parking lot. Can’t wait to hear your insight about the potential third park 👍🏼👍🏼
There was a mini golf on this baren stretch of land that Disney purchased in the 90s. Along with the Grand Hotel that was behind and to the left a bit.
That big long strip next to the Gardenwalk with nothing in it? If I remember correctly, that's power regulation. You have high tension wires running all down that particular route right there. You can't develop on it. It has to stay empty in case an earthquake or other natural disaster knocks over those towers.That should be owned by the the Utility Company, whatever they might be called now days.
I really like your thought process taking us through the possible progression of Disney Forward Brickey. Let's say this all does happen as you theorize, I think about how to move all these people throughout the whole complex. Over the years with WESTCOT & other visions, there were always People Movers, Moving Sidewalks and/or the Monorail, maybe even by Skyway Gondolas. The biggest hurdle to any of these expansion possibilities is having to crossover Harbor & the other City owned streets that would require approval. The connectedness of all these "zones" of Disneyland Resort are essential. WDW has no such concerns because it owns the land & can use whatever transpo system they like. However in Anaheim crossing over public property/streets & sidewalks is an issue. Additionally the businesses on the ground hate the idea of a "Disney Bubble" that might impact their street foot traffic. Any vision on how to address this? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Personally I'm hoping for a Monorail system (with a/c) to make the entire loop!
This expansion series is brilliant. A while ago i saw a few other creaters talk about Gardenwalk and factors about it and the ownership issues it has had. With no reason beyond that I liked the idea, and that the current owners don't seem to have major plans, i wondered if there was any chance that a "Florida Project" was in play, and that Disney was already in possession of the Gardenwalk behind or using the the company that owns it, holding their cards close until the Forward plans allowed for it to be showcased along with eventual plans for the eastern side of Harbor Blvd.
Definitely an interesting opportunity with lots of upside potential. What ever happened with Disney buying Angels Stadium? Thanks for creating some very intriguing stories in this series, loads of food for thought 💭 😊
Brickey I think you’re spot on here! I think this is exactly what will happen. We can bluesky beautiful ideas but this legitimately seems so possible. Do you think Disney would tear down gardenwalk entirely to build downtown Disney east? Also, how big is the Toy Story lot? Does it make westcot possible ?
Gardenwalk has big properties both to the east and west, owned by companies that know just how valuable that land is and would really stick it to Disney if they really wanted to buy them. In other words, not really enough room for a single story "walk". I worked for Disney while Mr. Fujishige still had a life interest in continuing the farm on his former property. Another challenge is that that parcel doesn't have water and sewer connections available. A rather startling revelation to families with children who need to pump bilges after arriving by car. Cast members need to return to the buildings just off Katella. Decades old plans were to install when a third "park" was built. Not sure how things stand now but before Covid the Anaheim City Council took a decidedly progressive turn and in direct and indirect activities to show they didn't care what Disney wanted, enacted some low cost housing zoning requirements. Between Covid and the Council several projects got backburnered.
Interesting the video ... Early Plans of Garden Walk previously referred to as Pointe Anaheim had it designed as a L-shape Retail/Entertainment venue that had an access point at Katella as it exist and also a connection at Harbor Blvd. This larger version of Pointe Anaheim would also have included the property where the Anaheim Hotel is now sitting. Direct access to Harbor maybe have helped the performance of Garden Walk.
I could see all those motels along harbor from the east side pedestrian bridge to Disney way becoming a consolidated new first class resort complex #harborBoulevard
You mentioned that the garage is engineered to support a time share structure. Wouldn't that make it more attractive to Disney? Disney could build DVC space or another hotel on that property if it could support such structures.
Golf and stuff used to sit there under the power lines on the corner of harbour. I wonder if that’s now considered undevelopable land?? I’m assuming it’s owned by the city.
I agree! I think this is the way Disney should go in order to expand. I wonder though if they will. It just feels like all of their decisions lately are looking to cut corners and costs. Not do what’s best for the customers. From just remaking old movies (that are bombing in the theaters) to things like choosing not to bring back the dragon in Fantastic and so much more in between. I feel like I keep finding myself scratching my head. Anyone who knows me, knows I’ve been a Disney die hard my entire life. Been a pass holder since the ‘80’s. It pains me to say although I hope they do exactly what you said, I have a serious lack of faith that they would make such a wise decision to do so. I just can’t understand their decisions in recent years.
Totally agree!!! I always thought it was odd they didn't buy it when they had the chance. But like you said Covid proved how important Disney is to Anaheim.
FIRE STATION: The Anaheim Fire Station next to the JW Marriot could easily be bought by Disney and replaced with a station built and paid for by Disney within 1-2 blocks without affecting response times/coverage. Increasing footprint next to Gardernwalk.
After hearing, years ago they could have bought the property but didn't.....I just don''t understand why they didn't. With Land so limited in the area Disney should be buying up anything they can get their hands on
This was a great video! Only one thing worries me however cause if they ever decided to purchase Garden Walk that also means they would have the land that House of Blues sits on. I am an avid concertgoer and that is my favorite venue. Now what makes me worried is the fact that Disney banned bands from playing at HOB back in the day cause they didn’t want specific people going into their parks. They mostly banned metal bands etc which is my favorite genre so if they acquire Garden Walk then I hope they won’t touch HOB and do that again. I would love if Disney took over that part of the garden walk or even build something in the parking lot across from it!
Disney purchased the mini golf course that was on Harbor in the early 90s as well as the Grand Hotel that sat behind and to the left of the mini golf course.
I completely agree with you that this makes the most sense. However, the only way this can eventually happen is if Disney realizes that they need to stop using their extremely profitable theme parks to fund their movie studios and instead start reinvesting that money in the theme parks to ensure long-term growth. The movie studios are losing money and alienating fans. The theme parks make money and gain more fans by the day. I hope that the Disneyland Forward project is an indicator that Disney is starting to appreciate just how important the theme parks are to their business.
um they have zero cash!
@@HeyBrickeyI love this content! WTH? I’m not allowed to comment? I’m thinking of making my own video on this. All I said was they have no money for anything right now. Garden walk would be hundreds of millions to obtain. And it will be for sale eventually. And I agree that the DF plan for another shopping district on toy story was probably the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. That plot is one hundred percent their third them park! I wasn’t criticizing YOU, just commenting on how ridiculous Disney is right now. That’s all😊
I had the exact thought. They are struggling so much right now and can barely hold onto and take care of what they have. So sad.
I think Brickey read your comment as a nay sayer. :) I think it would be a great idea but yeah, like you said - they got a cash problem atm. But I would love for them to acquire Garden Walk and expand Disneyland!
@@thebluetarp They don't have "zero cash." They're hurting by wall street standards, but they also have the money to spend $300 million to make a movie that... I don't want to say "flopped" because I really liked it, but it definitely underperformed. Every corporation as big as Disney has money, they're just not doing very good with it lately.
As has been said, this isn't happening tomorrow, but you still need to keep in mind that when people say Disney has a cash problem, they don't mean the same thing as if you or I say we have a cash problem.
The have revolving lines of credit, like every other huge corporation.
I’ll say it every time, this is the best DL content around.
every single time without failure, i get so excited to see his posts!
Love this video also. You definitely are the best Disneyland creative UA-camr out there. We just need to get the word out. You put so much heart into your videos.
I’ll say it every time, I’m a huge Disneyland freak but an even bigger Jesus freak. It’s always time to share good news.
Yes, buying Garden Walk is vital.
A long time ago, l was informed of the vacant land on the East side of Garden Walk was being set aside for two Disney hotels, however run by outside companies. (1 hotel was built). The unique aspect of these 2 hotels is that the monorail was going to connect them to the existing Resort and the strawberry fields/parking lot/3rd gate.
keep um coming Brickey my boy!
Thanks!
Totally agree with everything you said. A third park and Disney buying garden walk is perfect.
I like the Collectable store they have at that Mall. Also this is where I park my car before my hotel becomes available. Parking is just $3 an hour with the first hour free.
I hope Disney is watching this video! The plan would put future development so close to the existing parks - a huge benefit over Disney World where everything is spread out over several miles. Well done, excellent content 👍
Love these friend, thank you.
walt said that "the biggest mistake i made,was not buying enough land around the park"......because it created his park being surrounded by tacky motels,and other hangers -on looking to cash in on being next to disneyland...and it limited his ability to expand... this was the reason for WDW in florida....to have enough land to expand out...and do things the way he wanted to do them....while keeping his sightlines.if anahiem wants to make "a disney resort district",they need to work with disney to make it happen...and thats what "disney forward" is all about.
You Sir, are making WAY TOO MUCH sense. I really like your analysis & assessment. 👊🏼✌🏼
I really love this series. The videos aren't just smart and informative, they look fantastic. I like pondering all these ideas. Thanks, Brickey 🤘
Yep, you're absolutely right about Garden Walk. I've been saying it for years that they will connect the Toy Story lot to Garden Walk for a 3rd gate. The new parking garage would feed the shopping district, which will feed the 3rd gate, which will feed back to retail and DVC. An endless loop for Disney.
I fully agree.
I'm so anxious for some news about Disneyland Forward, let alone for something to happen to GW - Such a barren wasteland. Solid Video, Brickey.
Totally agree!! Disney makes Toy Story Parking Lot a 3rd Gate and buys Garden Walk and becomes exactly what you said, “A week long destination”!
Not enough parks for a week unless you are going to go to knotts berry farm or drive to Hollywood or see the ocean. WDW has a ton more to do in a week and they have a ton more parks in one place. If you stay at a Disney hotel at WDW you get free transportation from airport, to the parks, to the Disney spring mall, water parks, Epcot, etc. right in Front of your hotel. You don’t need a car.
Yes yes Yes Brickey!!!! I’m here and loving every bit of your content and imagination. Come on Disney please get on board.
I was just there at GardenWalk. I can see your vision and i like the win win scenarios.
So excited about the possibilities!! Wish it would happen sooner than later… at least during my lifetime 🙏😊
I want ‘em to get approval & build it already!!
I think your ideas have a lot of merit, but one hurdle (or perhaps opportunity) I see is that those sections of land are all broken up by dual or triple carriageway roads. I wonder what creative methods Disney can use to span the blocks seamlessly. The Disneyland Dr bridge is one example, but I'm sure they can do better as well. In some ways it comes back to Walt's original ideas about efficient urban design, I'd love to see that theme brought through with something like underground light rail, or maybe just make it entirely walkable, similarly to the Las Vegas strip where you can walk from building to building and not know you've just walked 3 blocks.
So interesting! I love your ideas🎉
Brickey just followed your channel.. I like your videos about Disney Expansion. I like this kind of content.
Love this video Brickey!
Hey Brickey. I think your thought process makes sense. If Walt was alive, I think he would have jumped at the chance to buy that mall and expand. I was dissapointed that during 2020 and the closure, that they didn't take that time to really go maintenance crazy and also plus the parks. I think they misses the boat here as well. I say that with respect and hope. Were a long time Disney family, my parents started coming to Dland in 1955. Family friend was an early imagineer.
They absolutely should have spent the time to do maintenance, but I can understand them not wanting to be too aggressive about expansion plans during such a tumultuous time when people didn't really know what was going to be happening next or when "next" would even be
I visited here in 2012. Nice to see it's still up and running
Amazing video . I’ve always loved imagining what Disneyland can potentially be.
I work in the power industry, The areas you showed can’t have anything built there because of those big Power Poles - they are 69KV transmission Power lines that feed all the power to the parks, the areas underneath those poles are right of ways and nothing besides maybe a nursery can be put under those lines, also - they are such high power lines they just can’t be relocated to another spot easily. High power lines like that have been deemed not OK for people to be under or around long term due to potential health reasons from the induction the lines produce. In theory the Power lines “could” probably be put way underground but that would cost a Massive Pile of cash to accomplish - and I still am not sure if the ground above it can be used for the public. Anaheim also has its own power company (its not Edison), and they simply don’t have the deep pockets that other Mega power companies have so I am sure Disney would have to fund that Power line relocation project Hans Solo - and just the project to put those lines underground alone would take a few years.
Great content. Please keep this series going!!
“If you’re not a designer or a creative…” you just might want to become one after watching these videos. I’m inspired by this visionary. Thanks, Brickey! 7:26
Hey Brickey, that empty area along Disney way is under the high voltage lines. You can't build permanent structures in these zones. You could define have this area be a landscaped pedestrian walkway. Love the vid!
Love to see you getting your steps in with this series. You are definitely moving "Forward" and taking us with you.
Thanks Mark!
Going to Anaheim for the first time in September, all the way from Scotland. Thank you for all your videos, always so informative and great for getting a sense of the area surrounding the parks!
It’s looks like a ghost town at the Garden Walk. Disney needs to buys this property.
I think your option makes absolute sense and I hope Disney does something at least similar!
Great creative insight! Disney needs to talk to some creative people like you to expand their vision!
I see the vision. Its perfect. Keep these videos coming!
I've never been to Garden Walk, since we are from out of town I'm always going straight to the parks. This is so interesting, thanks Brickey!
Can we just recognize how beautiful that first shot was 🙌🏼
Great spit balling of ideas.
Thanks Brickey
Love, love, love these topics! Ideas start swirling around in my little brain and I get excited for the future!
Another great episode. Thanks for all the great work.
Love it- Dream Big with Brickey!! 😀
HI RES version looks great! Great video today and thanks for the historical details on Garden Walk!
Thanks for the video Brickey! Loved it as always.
Another great video in the series. I love hearing your ideas and hope Disney listens! Keep up the good work!
Love this content so good
i’m convinced you need to be an Imagineer. they need you!!!!
I absolutely love this series. Not only are you showing us your great vision and imagination, but you're teaching us to use ours. Very eye-opening and educational.
If the DVC tower would have sold out right away, I can see how the purchase would be a no-brainer. But I don't see them investing in more DVC unless they make it half and half like the Riviera. I love that you're taking the time to walk around and explain things. I've been there countless times but not a local and no familiar with the area.
The bare spot is the electrical right of way
I have to add a second comment. Brickey, you clearly put a lot of thought into this video and thinking through these scenarios. I know you don't want to hear this, but they should hire you (OK maybe as a consultant 😅).
Hundred percent agree with you! Bring on the 3rd Gate
Nice color scheme. ❤.
Your hypothesis is logical. Since the days of Eisner, the land east of Harbor Boulevard has been in play. But the turbulent national economy during each successive decade since the 70s has made for short term boom and bust cycles, too short for Anaheim to fall into line at Cityhall. Unfortunately the economy continues to boom & bust cycles in rapid succession, complicated by the defeat of traditional retailers to online retailers. When & if Disney pulls a trigger on Garden Walk is too difficult to predict.
The possibilites! Love it! Thanks, Brickey!
From a Disneyland frequent visitor, this expansion would be great more room.
Stellar content!
Really enjoying this, niche as it is. This is super unique content that isn't just "Top Ten Snacks" or, as you said, "reviewing the new popcorn bucket".. it might not be the clickbait of "top ten trash cans of Disneyland" but I'm digging it.
...actually, a video on the trash can design would be kind of cool, now that I think about it...
Well said and great job.
Like all this speculation. Makes a lot of sense and the development of the Toy Story lot would be a boon to all those Harbor / Karelia hotels and businesses. Look forward to more of these!
love these ideas! who do we tell in the Disney Corp to get it rolling? keep up the videos Brickey! loving them!
What a fun video series. I can’t wait to see what Disney does next.
It makes sense for Gardenwalk to stay retail and they could make some of the parking floors for CMs too. Then 2/3 of the existing CM lot could be the new parking and transportation hub with garages and the last 1/3 the CM garage. Size-wise Toy Story looks comparable to DCA; there is just a lot of residential and business next to it. Disney could run shuttles straight down Clementine between the parks and maybe there’s enough room next to the power lines for a Skyliner? Great work as always
Pretty much agree. The parking lot is not particularly well engineered for high flow parking, such as occurs before park opening and after fireworks. It is marginally suitable for normal spread out flow you get with retail and dining on-site.. Not good for traffic flow or pedestrian traffic at any time. (I worked for RT&P for several years and worked at Gardenwalk many times when DL used it for parking.) Also, I wouldn't bet against the property already being owned by Disney., with constraints from deeds or zoning issues.
Brickey, you are talking the plan that seemed obvious to me since 2018. Would not surprise me if Disney already helped finance the 2019 purchase of Gardenwalk in 2019 thru an aliased 3rd party, with the first option for outright buy once certain conditions are met. Disney knew 2019 was too early to outlay the cash, but if zoning rules loosen, they can put existing business options in motion.
Fun and thought-provoking series. Appreciate the time and effort put forward. We'll have to wait and see what Disney has planned, but you ideas are spot-on! Thanks!
The Disney Co should have bought the acreage under Gardenwalk when the land was still available. Major oversight on their part to not have done that. But financing is always a tricky game---eg, Disney's parks in France have been generally in the red for yrs. Meanwhile, too bad too the Edison Co never undergrounded their high-tension power lines that straddle the east & south sides of Disney's properties. That was talked about yrs ago, but the high price to do that scared off Disney & Anaheim city hall. However, when prepping for their 2012 Olympics, London re-routed a similar system below grade.
The photo of the old Melodyland theater hints at just how substandard was the neighborhood around DL for over 40 yrs, which Walt Disney was fully aware of. That was finally cleaned up in the late 1990s. As for Hollywood Land of DCA, that should have been improved a long time ago. It's now over 20 yrs since it was built, & tearing it down & combining it with the adjoining bus loading area is the least the Disney Co should do. Given what's being built at the Disney parks in Tokyo, an area in DCA that has all the charm of a light industrial park (a fake backlot with exposed trusses? Really, Disney?) needs to be torn down & totally redesigned.
Great video! I've agreed with this idea for years. It just makes logical sense. People taliing about Disney not having enough money or The Garden Walk wouldnt sell, are just naieve. History shows, when Disney wants to do something, they do it
I was amazed when Disney didn't buy GW when it was available. Or ... is it possible they DID? Could the current owner be a shell company ala "The Florida Project"? 🤔
I agree with you. Should Disney purchase the Garden Walk, it would be a special connection piece between parks. Years ago, we used the parking lot area right off Disney Way and it was so convenient - To have that as a parking structure as you mentioned would be instrumental and actually relieve vehicular congestion along Harbor Blvd. Enjoy your videos and keep up the good work!
Tremendous amount of potential (insert mind-blown emoji here. lol)
Glad to see Jeff getting a new job giving advice to passerby's, Great Video Brickey, I think with Disney buying the place its all about timing and clearly the last time it was up for sale was just not the right time as they were heavily invested and finishing up Galaxy's edge and other projects. Maybe next time they will have more cash at the ready.
It took me a while to get Zoltar out of there, but it was worth the effort. I so hope I make the Expansion that is the plan anyway.
🧙🏽♂️
To your point when we visited for the first time last May we stayed at the Hampton INN across the street from this Garden Walk area. Never once did we set foot in there because it wasn’t part of Disney but we made the walk to DT several nights. We had no idea what was in that area and just walked by simply because it wasn’t part of Disney 🤷🏻♂️
Makes a lot of sense .
I like your vision brickey! And I’m on your team! If more retail establishments want to come to downtown Disney, I don’t see why they can’t buy garden walk to accommodate them. Disney really needs to buy it soon so they can expand a bit more. I’m looking forward to your next video about the future of the Toy Story parking lot. Can’t wait to hear your insight about the potential third park 👍🏼👍🏼
There was a mini golf on this baren stretch of land that Disney purchased in the 90s.
Along with the Grand Hotel that was behind and to the left a bit.
That area is empty because of the easement for the high-tension lines that run above it.
That big long strip next to the Gardenwalk with nothing in it? If I remember correctly, that's power regulation. You have high tension wires running all down that particular route right there. You can't develop on it. It has to stay empty in case an earthquake or other natural disaster knocks over those towers.That should be owned by the the Utility Company, whatever they might be called now days.
From a design perspective: garden walk is ugly and I would be happy to see Disney transform it
I really like your thought process taking us through the possible progression of Disney Forward Brickey.
Let's say this all does happen as you theorize, I think about how to move all these people throughout the whole complex.
Over the years with WESTCOT & other visions, there were always People Movers, Moving Sidewalks and/or the Monorail, maybe even by Skyway Gondolas. The biggest hurdle to any of these expansion possibilities is having to crossover Harbor & the other City owned streets that would require approval.
The connectedness of all these "zones" of Disneyland Resort are essential. WDW has no such concerns because it owns the land & can use whatever transpo system they like. However in Anaheim crossing over public property/streets & sidewalks is an issue.
Additionally the businesses on the ground hate the idea of a "Disney Bubble" that might impact their street foot traffic.
Any vision on how to address this?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Personally I'm hoping for a Monorail system (with a/c) to make the entire loop!
This expansion series is brilliant.
A while ago i saw a few other creaters talk about Gardenwalk and factors about it and the ownership issues it has had.
With no reason beyond that I liked the idea, and that the current owners don't seem to have major plans, i wondered if there was any chance that a "Florida Project" was in play, and that Disney was already in possession of the Gardenwalk behind or using the the company that owns it, holding their cards close until the Forward plans allowed for it to be showcased along with eventual plans for the eastern side of Harbor Blvd.
I agree with u bro. U got my vote
Definitely an interesting opportunity with lots of upside potential. What ever happened with Disney buying Angels Stadium?
Thanks for creating some very intriguing stories in this series, loads of food for thought 💭 😊
I love this series. Keep it up.
Brickey I think you’re spot on here! I think this is exactly what will happen. We can bluesky beautiful ideas but this legitimately seems so possible.
Do you think Disney would tear down gardenwalk entirely to build downtown Disney east? Also, how big is the Toy Story lot? Does it make westcot possible ?
Gardenwalk has big properties both to the east and west, owned by companies that know just how valuable that land is and would really stick it to Disney if they really wanted to buy them. In other words, not really enough room for a single story "walk".
I worked for Disney while Mr. Fujishige still had a life interest in continuing the farm on his former property. Another challenge is that that parcel doesn't have water and sewer connections available. A rather startling revelation to families with children who need to pump bilges after arriving by car. Cast members need to return to the buildings just off Katella. Decades old plans were to install when a third "park" was built.
Not sure how things stand now but before Covid the Anaheim City Council took a decidedly progressive turn and in direct and indirect activities to show they didn't care what Disney wanted, enacted some low cost housing zoning requirements. Between Covid and the Council several projects got backburnered.
Interesting the video ... Early Plans of Garden Walk previously referred to as Pointe Anaheim had it designed as a L-shape Retail/Entertainment venue that had an access point at Katella as it exist and also a connection at Harbor Blvd. This larger version of Pointe Anaheim would also have included the property where the Anaheim Hotel is now sitting. Direct access to Harbor maybe have helped the performance of Garden Walk.
I could see all those motels along harbor from the east side pedestrian bridge to Disney way becoming a consolidated new first class resort complex
#harborBoulevard
I love this video!! You’re asking all the right questions and give all the LOGICAL answers!!! I fucking love this video!!
Thanks, I fucking love you!
I fucking love you too!! Keep up the good work
You mentioned that the garage is engineered to support a time share structure. Wouldn't that make it more attractive to Disney? Disney could build DVC space or another hotel on that property if it could support such structures.
Golf and stuff used to sit there under the power lines on the corner of harbour. I wonder if that’s now considered undevelopable land?? I’m assuming it’s owned by the city.
I agree! I think this is the way Disney should go in order to expand. I wonder though if they will. It just feels like all of their decisions lately are looking to cut corners and costs. Not do what’s best for the customers. From just remaking old movies (that are bombing in the theaters) to things like choosing not to bring back the dragon in Fantastic and so much more in between. I feel like I keep finding myself scratching my head. Anyone who knows me, knows I’ve been a Disney die hard my entire life. Been a pass holder since the ‘80’s. It pains me to say although I hope they do exactly what you said, I have a serious lack of faith that they would make such a wise decision to do so. I just can’t understand their decisions in recent years.
Cool series
Totally agree!!! I always thought it was odd they didn't buy it when they had the chance. But like you said Covid proved how important Disney is to Anaheim.
FIRE STATION: The Anaheim Fire Station next to the JW Marriot could easily be bought by Disney and replaced with a station built and paid for by Disney within 1-2 blocks without affecting response times/coverage. Increasing footprint next to Gardernwalk.
After hearing, years ago they could have bought the property but didn't.....I just don''t understand why they didn't. With Land so limited in the area Disney should be buying up anything they can get their hands on
I have been saying for years that Disney needs to buy Garden Walk to tie all their properties together! Great minds think alike!
This was a great video! Only one thing worries me however cause if they ever decided to purchase Garden Walk that also means they would have the land that House of Blues sits on. I am an avid concertgoer and that is my favorite venue. Now what makes me worried is the fact that Disney banned bands from playing at HOB back in the day cause they didn’t want specific people going into their parks. They mostly banned metal bands etc which is my favorite genre so if they acquire Garden Walk then I hope they won’t touch HOB and do that again. I would love if Disney took over that part of the garden walk or even build something in the parking lot across from it!
Disney purchased the mini golf course that was on Harbor in the early 90s as well as the Grand Hotel that sat behind and to the left of the mini golf course.
I completely agree with you that this makes the most sense. However, the only way this can eventually happen is if Disney realizes that they need to stop using their extremely profitable theme parks to fund their movie studios and instead start reinvesting that money in the theme parks to ensure long-term growth. The movie studios are losing money and alienating fans. The theme parks make money and gain more fans by the day. I hope that the Disneyland Forward project is an indicator that Disney is starting to appreciate just how important the theme parks are to their business.
Garden Walk is actually already a Disneyland parking lot