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Major changes are underway at Downtown Disney as the area transitions to Disney Springs, with new shops and restaurants already opening their doors.
“We are going to double the size of what we have today,” said Maribeth Visienere, senior vice president of Downtown Disney.
Raw: Disney Springs press conference
Visienere said expansion started last year. By the end of 2016, Downtown Disney will become Disney Springs.
The new name will come with an area that has 150 stores and restaurants, compared to the 80 currently in Downtown Disney.
“We are answering our guests' needs. They’ve told us they love coming here and we want to diversify and make it exciting,” Visienere said.
A handful of new businesses have already opened shop, including Chapel, a hat store.
The manager said the variety of tourists who come through makes it an ideal spot.
“It’s an absolutely fun experience being in Downtown Disney, soon to be Disney Springs. Everything is changing,” said Andres Benavides.
Disney is focused on those from around the world who come to visit, but locals are a focus, too.
“I feel very sure we will attract a lot if locals. We have great places, like these outdoor bars. We also have great retails they can't get anywhere else in the market,” said Visienere.
