Walt Disney World Resort today announced plans to transform the Downtown Disney Area into Disney Springs, roughly doubling the dining, shopping and entertainment options of the existing area.

The new shopping will be a mix of Disney and other brands, and feature both boutique shops and flagship anchor stores.

One popular question surrounding the project concerns parking: To that end, two parking garages will be built to accommodate vehicular traffic, with the Orlando Sentinel reporting, a total capacity of 6,000 spaces.

As the name suggests, Disney Springs will draw from Florida’s numerous waterfront towns for inspiration and theming. The area will include four outdoor neighborhoods connected by a flowing spring and lake.

Here are a few other features of the area, according to an official press release:

• “The Town Center, which offers a sophisticated mix of shopping and dining along with a promenade where guests can relax, refresh and reconnect.”
• “A colorful and thriving commercial district called The Landing with inspired dining and beautiful waterfront views.”
• “The family-friendly Marketplace that will continue to delight guests of all ages by combining new experiences, such as an over-the-water pedestrian causeway, along with classic Disney favorites, including an expanded World of Disney store.”
• “A West Side that provides an exuberant atmosphere with lively entertainment, along with a series of new elevated spaces that provide both shade and an overlook to the activity below.”

Construction is set to begin next month, and new areas will be opened in phases. The area is expected to be completed in 2016. As always, we’ll share more details about the project as we learn more.

What do you think of the plans for Disney Springs? Let us know below!

Here’s to more changes!
— Leap