The Disneyland Resort is undergoing a major transformation, and it's not just about the rides and attractions. The resort is getting a brand-new parking garage, and the Manchester Cast parking lot is set to close to make way for this exciting development. But what does this mean for the resort, and what does it imply for the future of Disneyland? Let's take a closer look.
A New Era of Parking
The new parking garage is part of the DisneylandForward project, which was officially announced in 2025 but teased back in 2023. The project is similar to the Eastern Gateway project, which was announced in 2016 but never fully came to fruition. The Pixar Pals parking structure, built in 2019, is a more recent example of a parking development at the resort.
The new garage will have 6,000 parking spaces, a dedicated space for shuttles and ride-sharing, security, and dedicated access for traffic off Disney Way. This is a significant upgrade from the current Manchester Cast parking lot, which is set to close on June 28, according to Workers United Local 50.
Impact on Cast Members
The closure of the Manchester Cast parking lot will have a significant impact on Cast Members, who currently use the lot for commuting. Local 50 notes that Cast Members can access other commuting options at disneycommuterassistance.com. The union has also provided a list of alternative parking lots that Cast Members can use, including the Katella Cast Member Lot (KCML), Harbor Cast Member Lot (HCML), and Ball Cast Member Lot (BMCL).
A New Entrance to the Resort
The new parking garage will also serve as a new entrance to the resort, with a pedestrian bridge to cross Harbor Blvd, leading to a new esplanade arrival experience. This is a significant change from the current layout, and it will likely have a significant impact on the overall visitor experience at the resort.
The Future of Disneyland
The new parking garage is just one part of a larger transformation at Disneyland Resort. The resort is undergoing a series of changes, including the demolition of the Team Disney Anaheim Office Building, which is currently located along the southern edge of the Manchester Cast parking lot. This is a significant development, as it will likely lead to a more streamlined and efficient operations at the resort.
Conclusion
The closure of the Manchester Cast parking lot is a significant development for Disneyland Resort, and it's just the beginning of a larger transformation. The new parking garage and the new entrance to the resort will likely have a significant impact on the overall visitor experience, and it's exciting to see what the future holds for this iconic destination. As an expert, I think this is a positive step forward for the resort, and it's a sign of things to come.
