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 Where is the new commemorative plaque?
In Nov. 1965, Walt and Roy O. Disney revealed the “Florida Project” in what is now the Thornton Park District of Downtown Orlando. Today, a new plaque commemorates the very building where that bold idea was first shared.
“With this plaque, we honor more than a historic announcement. We honor a relationship, with both Walt Disney World and our Orlando Main Streets, that bolsters our economy, strengthens our neighborhoods and defines our identity," said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.
 What does the Florida Project look like today?
The Florida Project is now known as Walt Disney World and has become the largest and most visited theme park destination in the world. Our resort spans nearly 30,000 acres and has become a powerful economic engine for Florida, generating an influx of jobs, tourism and public revenue for the state.
In fact, did you know that ...
- Walt Disney World is the largest single-site employer in the United States, supporting 80,000 cast members.
- Disney leads the industry in employee retention at a rate of over 80% and an average tenure of 12 years.
- Disney also supports thousands of small businesses, many who are local to Florida and employ additional workers.
- In total, one out of every 32 jobs in Florida can be attributed to Disney.
- Since opening in 1971, Disney has provided hundreds of millions of dollars in support to local nonprofits, schools and other organizations.
 What's next for Walt Disney World in Florida?
More than 60 years after that historic day in Thornton Park, Disney continues to invest in Florida. This includes work that is underway now like Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom, a Monsters, Inc. land at Hollywood Studios and the largest expansion of Magic Kingdom with Cars and Villains-themed lands and more.
Disney’s growth in Florida means more new stories brought to life, greater prosperity for the region and new opportunities for guests, cast and neighbors alike. Read more about the story that Disney and Florida have built together.
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