Disney Begins Refurbishment Preparations at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Large Scrim Installed

Oct 29, 2024 in "Big Thunder Mountain Railroad"

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad October 2024
Posted: Tuesday October 29, 2024 9:22am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

A large scrim has been set up behind Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom, concealing early construction activity as Disney prepares for the attraction's upcoming refurbishment.



Initial Preparations for Extensive Refurbishment

The appearance of the scrim suggests that preliminary work is already underway ahead of Big Thunder's scheduled closure on January 6, 2025. This early phase may involve site preparation for the installation of a large crane, which is likely needed to manage significant upgrades to the coaster's ride system and track. Disney's previously filed permits indicate the project will require extensive structural updates, with the ride expected to reopen sometime in 2026. Given the scale of the refurbishment, cranes and other heavy equipment will almost certainly be essential.


Anticipated Timeline

Disney has not yet provided specifics on what updates are planned, but recent permits indicate that the project timeline extends through March 2026. While this offers a general timeframe for completion, exact dates may shift as the work progresses.

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    gorillaball4 hours ago

    It is indeed, further validating my point that single makes it unique.

    Disgruntled Walt1 day ago

    Making a new thread for this rumor. EDIT: Here it is!

    peter114351 day ago

    The timing

    TrainsOfDisney1 day ago

    Yes, all other versions are side by side. I believe all other versions have on board audio as well. The one in Anaheim is my favorite. I was so glad they restored the blue light tunnel again!

    JD801 day ago

    That rumor makes sense because I believe tomorrow and is getting a big polish after all th stuff already announced is completed. This is 4+ years from now. Unless they think that can get BTM and Space done before Villains is ready. I don't think they want major rides down with villains just opening.

    James Alucobond1 day ago

    Is it not side-by-side in other parks? Also, I find it fairly uncomfortable even as a 150-lb man.

    EricsBiscuit1 day ago

    Losing the two tracks on Space Mountain would be another insult to the MK. The big wigs in Burbank couldn’t care less about MK.

    gorillaball1 day ago

    But the single wide vehicle is what makes it unique, lose that and you lose a lot. Especially with the most recent two coasters built being two wide, indoor coasters.

    Agent H1 day ago

    Oh I know the last time I went on it was at the Christmas party and I spent the whole ride terrified I was going to lose my phone

    James Alucobond1 day ago

    I mean whether or not it'll switch to single track with a double-wide vehicle. That would honestly go a long way toward me bothering with it again. The current vehicles always have me grasping at my pocket contents out of concern that they'll slide into the abyss.

    TrainsOfDisney1 day ago

    Space is way past its lifespan - they have to close it or rebuild it soon.

    James Alucobond1 day ago

    Are you referring exclusively to the timing or the suggested updates as well?

    peter114351 day ago

    It will happen eventually. But I don’t believe it’s happening in 2026

    JoeCamel1 day ago

    If not then when? This is 10+ years past due so when are they going to bite the bullet?