Deb Wills sez Disney Institute to be next DVC

[KCritter]

Deb Wills has an unofficial report on her web site that DI will be the next DVC:
Deb Wills News Flash (http://www.wdwig.com/hnews.htm#655)

I know there has been a lot of speculation on these boards about it, but has anybody heard anything else lately?

[chris1gill]

One word....

YUCK

no way, no shape, no how are those buildings of the DVC quality... Yuck.....

[Firefighter Mickey]

They would have to tear down existing structures to make this work. If those buildings still have some useful life in them, I can't see DVD/Disney doing this.

I suspect that she's actually talking about the proposed Eagle Pines, and has confused that with DI.

[PamOKW]

There is something similar on the AOL site. It looks like it might be something that was sent out to travel agents regarding not taking the ressies for DI. I agree that as currently built it is not up to the DVC standards. It also has different configurations. I could see using the property but not the buildings. I hope this doesn't impact Eagle Pines.....that was something to really look forward to.

I'll try doing a search to see if anything else comes up on this rumor.

[friskykitten]

I really do, BUT my guide has said that same thing.....kind of. We were just talking about what the future of DVC MIGHT hold and I was curious whether they might add on to another resort, ie: the Grand Floridian or something. He didn't think the GF was a likely thing at all. If anything DVC might consider taking the Contemporary's long buildings and turn those into DVC villas keeping the tower for the hotel.

I had also asked if he thought Disney would be building another property similar to Vero Beach or Hilton Head in the future. He said they would probably think about the DI as the next property because it is already on-site so Disney already owns the land and it has all the necessary utilities, etc. right there. That means minimal cost to build.

Again, I MUST insist that we were just tossing ideas and opinions around. NONE of this is a fact or even a rumor from my guide. :bounce:

[kamgen]

Let me say first that I am not trying to ruffle any feathers here, but I probably will....so sorry! :)

Well, I think it is wrong to post something you "heard" might happen or is happening. I am sure when something is finalized, we will be told. So, I don't think rumors should be on someone' site unless they heard from a reputable source. Not saying that Deb is right or wrong with her info.

I have heard things from very reputable sources, BUT I will not post them because i was asked not to. So, I will keep the information I have and wait for a formal announcement when there is one.

JMHO.

Kamy :)

[DVC Chris]

It is interesting that this 'rumor' has surfaced again... A few months back, when it was announced that parts of the DI would be closing, someone mentioned that a DCL Bus driver told them that parts of the DI would be 'converted' to a DVC. It will be interesting to see if anything ever comes of this. It does concern me that this 'rumor' pops up at a time when they are reportedly starting work at Eagle Pines. At the member's meetings in December, they assured us that Eagle Pines was still a go!

I agree that the DI buildings are nowhere near DVC standards. BUT, they are among the oldest on property and I could see them bulldozing the buildings and re-building new ones in their place. The area closest to PI (I think) would be ripe for this sort of developement. It is right on the lake and is close to all the 'newer' construction that was done for the DI.

I do hope, however, that they do NOT bulldoze the Treehouse Villaa. I particularly think they are GREAT accommodations and offer something very different than any other location on property. Even though they are smaller than most DVC accommodations, their location, privacy and quietness are great.

Once again, just my two cents!

Chris

[PamOKW]

mentioned that a DCL Bus driver told them that parts of the DI would be 'converted' to a DVC.

Sometimes those bus drivers are the best source of info. Quite a few years ago a bus driver pointed over to the woods between Y&B and All-Star and said "They will be building a resort with a Southwest Theme over there."......voila -- Coronado Springs.

Kamgen I agree that rampant rumor is a bad thing. Everything posted here we should know needs to be taken with "a grain of salt" but when someone puts it on their site they should give some source for their material. It reads like a press release. I usually like Deb's site but I question this week's newsletter that spoke of the parks being dirty and then following up with this info.

[sgtpet]

I am so excited, I wonder whether they will presell DI. If so what will be the incentives. Anybody know?:D

[Firefighter Mickey]

Th incentive will be another increase in price just before it goes on sale. :p

Seriously though, DVC doesn't really need to do much in the way of incentives - the only reason they do MB is because they (DVD) gets something out of it.

[KirstenB]

I've never been inside any of the DI buildings, so I want to make sure I understand...these are the contemporary, cedar-sided dwellings on the golf course, near the Treehouse Villas, right? They look okay to me from the outside. Maybe they could just update the interior and exterior, and at least keep the basic framing, rather than bulldoze the whole structure. It does make sense rather than having to clear all new ground, etc.

[DebbieB]

Beach Club Villas may be sold out by late 2003 or early 2004. I don't know what the projected date for Eagle Pines was, but maybe they figure they can renovate DI and have it ready to sell by the time Beach Club Villas sellout. It would take less time to renovate DI than to build Eagle Pines from the ground up.

[Chuck S]

The following is pure speculation and "what ifs" on my part.

1) DVD could build some new buildings "attached" to the current DI resort, similar in the way the BWV and VWL are "attached" to their rental resorts -or-

2) DVD could rehab the existing buildings, making a moderate DVC resort. BY charging fewer points per night and utilizing existing buildings, they could drop the minimum buy-in at this resort to less than 100 pts. (allowing DVC to market to a wider range of potential owners) It would provide an alternative for those people that check out of the current DVCs to save weekend points, or allow extended stays for folks that own fewer points. However this would do two things - it would make it difficult for owners at DI to stay at one of the current DVC resorts except for very short intervals and it would make the current 11/7 month window even more important for all DVC Resorts. -or-

3) Create the much rumored DVC-II as moderate style units, having it completely separate from the current DVC system of resorts and not have a direct interchange of points between the two DVC entities, again allowing DVC to market to a wider range of potential owners. They would have their own point systems and purchase price per point. -or-

4) The DI thing could be a complete rumor, or DVC could change plans like they have after previous press relases. Just like they did after announcing the Newport Beach, CA units. In short, don't believe it 'til you see it.

JMO,

[Beth]

Is it possible she's taken this info off of her site?

I still see the "DVC News Flash" link on her home page - it takes me to the same page kcritter has above - but, for the life of me, I can't find any of the info you guys are describing...

[DVC Chris]

WDWMAGIC has a similar article....

http://www.wdwmagic.com/resorts.htm

[Werner Weiss]

This is clearly still a rumor, not official news.

It may happen. It may not happen. As others have pointed out, there doesn't appear to be any official news in the print or online news media. If anything, this could be a leak of some real internal Disney information. Or, of course, it could turn out to be a hoax that's been planted in various places -- including the DIS News and Rumors board, WDWMagic, and Deb's WDWIG -- to make it seem corroborated.

Yes, it's a believable rumor. Let's assume that Disney Vacation Developemnt (DVD) has determined that BCV is likely to sell out before the as-yet-unnamed DVC resort at Eagle Pines Golf Course is ready. And we know that the Orlando Sentinel ran an article in November saying that the Villas at Disney Institute were shut down due to lack of guest demand. Now, imagine if DVD thoroughly renovates some portion of the Villas, and perhaps adds new pools and tears down some building that don't lend themselves to renovation. You could have a new DVC resort in half the time and at half the cost of building from the ground up.

[ralphd]

Still think it is a joke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ralphd:) :) :) :) :) :)

[Orky15]

perhaps I'm especially guillible, but I buy it!

[Shadeaux]

Looks like this is for real:

http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/f_headline.cgi?day0/220242259&ticker=

[jjcollins]

Can't say we would interested in adding on at the Disney Institute.


jj...... ;)

[Beth]

Guess I'm in the minority - but I'm excited about this news!

I've always really liked that area, and would welcome another "waterfront" property!

I'm anxious to see how it all comes together - with the existing DI facilities!

[Werner Weiss]

Earlier, I wrote, "This is clearly still a rumor, not official news." Since then, it's become official news.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 24, 2002--In response to strong guest demand, Disney Vacation Development, Inc. will expand its timeshare resort presence with its next location at the Disney Institute at Walt Disney World Resort, subject to obtaining all necessary approvals. The Institute property, with its unique amenities and urban setting adjacent to the Downtown Disney resort area, made it an ideal place to expand the company's highly successful Disney Vacation Club business.
It's interesting that thay actually used the "t" word -- timeshare. Ususally DVD is so careful to avoid the word "timeshare," preferring to describe DVC as "Disney’s innovative vacation ownership program."
"The proposed ownership resort expansion will combine one of our highly successful offerings with an exciting complement of existing resort amenities," said George Aguel, Senior Vice President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. Guests staying in the Disney Vacation Club villas will have convenient access to the Downtown Disney resort area, including the Institute spa and recreational facilities.
That makes sense. The Spa at Disney Institute is one on two major Spas at WDW. (The other is at the Grand Floridian.) For some potential customers, this could be a real draw.
The new, 192-unit development is slated to occupy a unique 16-acre site overlooking the lakefront district at Downtown Disney. Initial plans call for the construction of four residential-style buildings with studio, one- and two-bedroom villas and Grand Villa units that sleep up to 12 guests.
That certainly sounds like new construction -- not renovation of existing buildings, as I had earlier speculated.

I wonder how they'll deal with the view issue? It seems that they learned from BWV that DVC resorts shouldn't have rooms where some some have much better views than others. Consider that at VWL, all units have views of the woods, and that at BCV, there won't be any magnificent views.
"We had the opportunity to consider this location because expansion of Disney Institute programs throughout the Walt Disney World Resort reduced the need for dedicated Institute resort space," said Aguel. Disney Institute programming includes professional development programs, from keynote speeches, workshops and behind the scenes tours to customized programs that help groups implement successful strategies into their own organizations.
In other words, the Disney Institute now does group and corporate programs, but the individual enrichment programs on which the Disney Institute was founded are history. With a loyal group of DVC members who return year after year (and are always looking for new and different things to do), I wonder if there's a possibility that the Disney Institute could rebuild some of their individual enrichment programs? That would be great.
The announcement heralds a time of exciting growth for Disney Vacation Club, which is celebrating its 10th year and now boasts a membership of more than 60,000 families from over 60 countries.
That's an impressive success story.
Development will begin this spring with a targeted opening of spring 2004.
That raises the biggest question: What does this mean for the as-yet-unnamed DVC resort at Eagle Pines Golf Course?

The original Eagle Pines press release said, "The new resort is scheduled to open in phases, with the first phase consisting of the Inn building and five Villa buildings for a total of 360 units. The Inn and one Villa building are expected to open in spring/summer 2004, with the four additional Villa buildings opening throughout the remainder of that year. The final phase of five additional Villa buildings containing 240 units are anticipated to open by spring/summer 2005."

I can't see DVD opening two major WDW on-site DVC resorts in spring/summer 2004. My guess is that the first phase of Eagle Pines will be put on hold until 2005 or 2006, with the actual opening date determined by how well BCV sells and when DVD expects to need more inventory to sell.

(By the way, I'm quoting the whole press release because it's a press release, and press releases are meant to be reprinted. I don't quote copyrighted articles in their entirety.)

Any other thoughts about the announcement or replies to my comments?

[vernon]

Nicely covered Werner, I hadn't thought about the spa part of the Institute, to some people that could be a good reason to stay at "DVC/DI" . I would agree that it does make it look shakey for the Eagle Pines developement and that it is likely that building on the DI would be much quicker than developing a completely fresh site. No need to lay fresh utilities or sewer systems.

If it is done well and completely new buildings I have no major objection, although I do have some nagging worries about the whole thing. Those worries are
1) Being so close to OKW it would make sense, possibly to have it as an expansion as opposed to a resort in it's own right ( an amalgamation like PO and DL for example) this would save money by only needing one check in area etc.

2)DI has failed to capture the publics imagination in any of it's various guises to date, maybe that's been the public's fault but I tend to think there is a reason for it.

3) Eagle Pines looks like it's on the back boiler

4) Is Disney just trying to dump the unpopular and unprofitable DI onto the profitable DVC?

5) Given that DI is unpopular, will people buy into DI with the thought of actually staying at one of the other DVC resorts. Leaving those that book at the last minute the choice of DI or nothing?

I'm left nervous by the number of worries I have about this, it is possible that DVD will come up trumps with a fabulous resort, but I think they are starting from a long way back. The VWL and BCV both were expansions of very popular and nicely themed resorts, DI seems to bring about , in general , an "ugh" response from the majority of the "punters" it doesn't exactly install me with confidence as to the reasons for the choice of DI, when the Eagle Pines development had a pretty major "WOW" factor to it.

[jennybobenny]

Looks official to me. ;)
I really have no opinion one way or the other since most of our stays would be at our home resort (BWV), followed by BCV, VWL and OKW, in that order. At least it will give the DVC guides something to sell when the Beach Club Villas are sold out. I do hope they change the name - Disney Institute just doesn't cut it. ;)

[Regina]

Just for the record, the Animal Kingdom Lodge has a full spa, and the VWL offers spa services.

If they're going to focus on the waterfront, that would leave out the Fairway Villas and the Treehouses.

We used to stay there before we bought into OKW. It never had a resort feel to it. The main building was far removed from everything. To this day, I can't tell you where the pool was.

I hope that they simply bulldoze everything and start over. These accommodations are aged and wallpaper and paint alone are not going to cut it.

[hoosiergirl]

I agree with those that are not really thrilled with this. I hope they're bulldozing and re-building!

[sgtdisney]

Based on the article that was posted and the fact that it mentions 16 acres specifically this is my take on it. It sounds like, to me, that they will bulldoze the area where the 'Townhouses' are located. This is really one of the only parts of the Disney Institute that overlooks Downtown Disney. It sounds like for sure that the current Institute buildings will be demolished as well. This is where they will build the new DVC style resort. I think that the Fairway and Treehouse villas and the Grand Vista Suites will remain. The Fairway and Treehouse Villas have always been more popular than the Townhouses anyway and the Townhouses sit on prime real estate. Maybe they will even incorporate the DI studios into this development and raze those as well, as those have never been big sellers either. The Fairway and TreeHouse villas are north of the Existing clubhouse anyway and I am willing to bet that the exisiting golf Clubhouse building will stay put as well.

It will be interesting to see what happens there. I personally will be a little sad to see the Townhouses leveled, if this is the case. I have not stayed there since long before we bought into the DVC, but my family stayed there a couple of times when I was a kid and I have some fond memories there. Ah, progress.

[Paul in CT]

I don't understand the disclaimer at the end that says it's an unofficial announcement when George Aguel, Senior Vice President of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, is quoted as making the statement.

I wouldn't want to be him if it is not an OFFICIAL statement. :)

[tom in ct.]

I was the one that posted this rumor back in early december when my wife got back from her cruise! she was told that by the bus driver of the mears shuttle! At the time everyone who had the inside scoop from various sources inside disney said that this was absolutely not true! It makes you think doesn't it! how good are these sources and who is really telling the truth if the bus driver knows and he doesn't even work for disney!;) ;) ;) ;) ;)

[PamOKW]

The DI and GF spas are much more elaborate than the spa/spa services at any other WDW resort. They are more along the lines of going on a "spa vacation". Here's a link with some info on them. Maybe they see the DVC as a way to attract folks to the spa?

European Style Spas at WDW (http://disneymeetings.disney.go.com/disneyworldmeetings/main/golf/mainGolfSpaIndex?id=mainGrSpa)

When I was looking for this info, I noticed they already call the accomodations the Villas at Disney Institute. Seems like they'll need a new name....and maybe some type of theme?

As for Disney folks "knowing nothing"....Celebration was well-known to be under construction but if you asked a CM for info, even just an idea of where it was located....they would do their best Sgt. Schultz impression. ;)

[Werner Weiss]

First, here's a map of the current Villas at Disney Institute (http://www.mouseplanet.com/dtp/maps/wdw_resorts/VDI_map.htm) from Brian Bennett's site at MousePlanet. You can click on the map for a much larger map.
Originally posted by sgtdisney
Based on the article that was posted and the fact that it mentions 16 acres specifically this is my take on it. It sounds like, to me, that they will bulldoze the area where the 'Townhouses' are located. This is really one of the only parts of the Disney Institute that overlooks Downtown Disney.
I agree. According to the press release, "The new, 192-unit development is slated to occupy a unique 16-acre site overlooking the lakefront district at Downtown Disney." The section that's now occupied by the townhouses seems to fit that description. So I think that's where the four new buildings "overlooking the lakefront district at Downtown Disney" will go.
Originally posted by sgtdisney
It sounds like for sure that the current Institute buildings will be demolished as well. This is where they will build the new DVC style resort.
I think the current, main Institute buildings will remain. And I'm not sure what sgtdisney means by "the new DVC style resort." The initial new construction seems to be limited to the 16 acre site.

The main Institute buildings were designed by noted architect Thomas Beeby, dean of the Yale School of Architecture from 1986 to 1991. These buildings continue to be used for Disney Institute programs, as well for the Spa at Disney Institute. George Aguel is quoted, "The proposed ownership resort expansion will combine one of our highly successful offerings with an exciting complement of existing resort amenities." I think the main Institute buildings are a key part of the "existing resort amenities" to which Aguel refers.
Originally posted by sgtdisney
I personally will be a little sad to see the Townhouses leveled, if this is the case. I have not stayed there since long before we bought into the DVC, but my family stayed there a couple of times when I was a kid and I have some fond memories there.
The Treehouse Villas probably won't be leveled at this time. They are a substantial distance from the site described in the press release. As the most unusual and appealing structures in the current Villas at Disney Institute resort, I too hope they'll remain.

But consider the sentence, "Initial plans call for the construction of four residential-style buildings with studio, one- and two-bedroom villas and Grand Villa units that sleep up to 12 guests." Note that I've highlighted "Initial plans." This makes it seem that the first four buildings are just the first phase, and that DVD is leaving the door open to additional phases. Perhaps, some day, the DVC resort will absorb the entire Disney Institute resort -- and the Treehouse Villas will be history.

[tarzanman]

Here is the stuff that I told my guide that I would until Friday to post. Thanks.

Feb 3rd Beach Club Villas starts presale. There will be big incentives for current members to add on.

DI is the next DVC resort. They will be some construction, some destruction. It is scheduled to open in 2004 but presale could start sooner. Might get a new name.

Price per point goes to $80 in June.

VWL will be announced sold out the second week of February.

Eagle Pines is still coming in 2004 or 2005.

Call your guides if you have any questions. They were all given this info at a meeting earlier this week.

[ralphd]

Does this mean that I must back down on ' this must be a joke'.

Tell me this isn't so???????

ralphd:) :) :) :) :)

[d-r]

Seriously though, afaik, the DI has the only pool deep enough to allow for diving on property - I always figured that risk management would catch up with that and "fix" that little situation - I wonder if that pool will stay?
DR

[doubletrouble_vb]

I definitely in the minority here...I wish DI were coming on line before BCV. They will have honest to god water views, they are near most of the evening entertainment on the property...they are near OFF property entertainment. I could have a lot of fun at this location. They will be near the transit hub of Downtown Disney.

I figure BCV will have a lot of competition to get into it, will have a ton of kids (I like rugrats but not necessarily after they've had a day in the park). Since I don't golf I have as much interest in Eagle Pines as I do Old Key West. I haven't stayed there yet and I plan to for the Epcot Flower & Garden Show but...it seems really inconvenient if you don't have a car.

[Orky15]

MHO? Bring DI on! The more choices, the more valuable points in the DVC. Sure, the location is different, but that's good too. As long as they keep required points in line with the condition and desirablility of the property, how could it hurt to have another option?

[PamOKW]

Doubletrouble -- All the points you mention in anticipation of the DI villas could already apply to OKW. I think you'll enjoy your stay there. You are in your own "home" so you aren't dealing with other folks children anymore than you do with neighbors at home (with the exception of possibly hearing footsteps if they are heavy walkers). OKW is a 5 minute drive to DD and if you got in your car at your unit and drove to the front door of Boardwalk you'd be there in less than 10 minutes -- five if you hit the lights right. I have always found the buses as good or better than those at every other WDW resort. I think you'll enjoy your stay.

[DC7800]

Ironic that the graphic which accompanied the Orlando Sentinel article on this expansion should read "part of the Disney Institute will be turned into Vacation Villas", as one previous name for these Townhouse accomodations was the Vacation Villas.

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/tourism/orl-disneygraf.graphic?coll=orl%2Dbusiness%2Dheadlines %2Dtourism

But, are all the Vacation Villas to be demolished? That Sentinel graphic (red circle) seemed to point only to units situated toward the west end of the Vacation Villas area; perhaps units #80-133? Anyone know how many acres total the Townhouses currently occupy?

Although I'm going to be in a (small) minority here (and though I'm excited at the prospect of a DVC resort in this area), I hate to see all these villas demolished. Seems like such a waste. I really hope some Townhouses might remain. Besides, we are losing a part of WDW history here, one of the earliest resorts (and part of just five total Disney resorts through most of the 1980's). Extensively renovated, those buildings could easily have made excellent DVC accomodations.

[SueM in MN]

Thought I'd throw this info in for what it's worth.
We have nver stayed at the Treehouse villas, but during our stays at OKW, we always take a boat at least once down to DD. In our last few trips, we could see some pretty extensive renovation going on at the Treehouses. The kind of remodeling where everything is torn out to the rafters and framing, not just re-wallpapering. I don't know if they have done all of them, but from what we saw, I'd say the Treehouses are probably set for another 20 years.

[sgtdisney]

Werner, I wasn't aware that the actual spa facilities were located in the Disney Institute buildings. Since this is the case, I am sure you are right and those buildings will probably remain. What I meant to imply by the DVC style resort was that it will be more like what we have seen at VWL and BVW, except in 4 seperated buildings. (Possibly like the artist conceptual drawings for the Eagle Pines are resort.) I don't think it will be anything like OKW. I think that was all I was meaning to say.

Also, I agree with you on the treehouses. I am sure that those will remain, at least for now. They are pretty far removed from the townhouse area.

Either way, it will be interesting to see how this unfolds.

[sgtdisney]

Originally posted by DC7800
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/tourism/orl-disneygraf.graphic?coll=orl%2Dbusiness%2Dheadlines %2Dtourism

But, are all the Vacation Villas to be demolished? That Sentinel graphic (red circle) seemed to point only to units situated toward the west end of the Vacation Villas area; perhaps units #80-133? Anyone know how many acres total the Townhouses currently occupy?



Thanks for the graphic! If you look at it closely, while only a small part of the townhouse complex is circled, you can see a faint red line going around the whole complex. I am willing to bet that the whole townhouse complex will be removed to make way for the new DVC resort. The townhouses were never as popular as the other DI villas so it makes sense, financially to replace them with something more viable. I agree, I will be a little sad to see them all go. From what I remember they were actually quite nice and rather large on the inside.

[DC7800]

Originally posted by sgtdisney
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/busi...lines%2Dtourism


Thanks for the graphic! If you look at it closely, while only a small part of the townhouse complex is circled, you can see a faint red line going around the whole complex.

I just noticed something about this graphic - it may be of the new resort, not the Townhouses! It's appears to be a representation showing the layout of the new resort buildings. I first thought it was a picture of the existing Townhouses (Vacation Villas), but it isn't. Look closely (I had to save the picture and zoom in) and you can see four main guest buildings, just as described in the Disney announcement. Looks like "C" shaped buildings; I think I am also seeing parking areas and other, smaller structures. The Townhouses don't look like this, and there are a lot more of them.

There is also some writing on the graphic in three places (above the "Disney Institute" label), but I can't make it out. What puzzles me is that "Disney Institute" label being there at all. It's actually covering the area of the new development; I'm guessing it was added by the Orlando Sentinel.

Now, I should point out this is all based on what I think I am seeing in this fuzzy graphical image. Is this a Disney graphic, or the Sentinel's? We may not be looking at the new resort at all, or it could be just a rough sketch for the newspapers benefit. My only point is that this does not appear to be a representation of the Townhouses as they exist today, and does seem to occupy the entire Townhouse area.

Looks like all the Vacation Villas are indeed slated for demolition. :( Had I known this, I'd have stayed there one last time during last month's trip!

[chris1gill]

DC7800, VERY GOOD observation! You are indeed right... the area of construction is represented with "C" shaped buildings, not townhouses... I could only locate 2 of the "C" shaped buildings lakeside (but I didn't zoom in)... Of course now this gives the age old problem of Standard vs. Lake View, I certainly hope the views are different point levels!

[mistermouse]

A close inspection of the image shows 4 "C" shaped buildings, the layout is intriguing - it looks like the rear view of each will be water view - could be a very nice alternative.

The townhomes were nice (but you could always tell the age of the buildings). The "Bungalows" were in a state of disrepair IMHO, and not up to Disney lodging standards, they should have been bulldozed first....

The noise from PI has been a complaint in the past, but never bothered us

[Simba1]

This is great news no matter how you look at it from both a Member standpoint, as well as from Disney's management standpoint.

With BCV becoming available in a few weeks, combined with the announcement of Disney Institute, this clearly indicates that DVC AND WDW are enjoying better than average financial times, even in this somewhat shaky economy. In speaking with my Guide, you can see that it took them under 15 months to sell-out Wilderness Lodge.

I suspect that Beach Club will sell fast, too...with the amenities of the Y&B Club, the views of EPCOT and the adjacency of Boardwalk...this location offers great reward for add-ons and new members. Makes even more sense that they considered DI, afterall that property has an infrastructure already in place. I'm sure that they will rebuild the villas to DVC standards, but everything else is in place SHOULD BCV sell-out at the same pace as Wilderness Lodge. And why shouldn't it...location is everything for DI. Seems like a smart interim step while Eagle Pines continues to be developed, but at a more manageable (and likely less costly) construction timetable.

I don't believe that there is any reason to think that Eagle Pines has been scrapped. If anything, the DVC management is probably looking at many scenarios to ensure the greatest return for both Disney and the Members.

:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: :smooth: :bounce: :bounce: :bounce:

[kem330]

Simba1, Are you a cast member? Please don't take offense but it sounds like you are spouting the company line. Eagle Pines was already scheduled for 2004 (until Sept 11th anyway). How will DI help? In just my personal opinion, it seems like a bandaid. After OKW, all resorts were located somewhere special - BW, BC, WL and the new Eagle Pines with a beautiful mediterranean design and golf resort theme. I hope I'm wrong, but if there is no WOW factor theming and these are just condo type buildings, what will make them special? Disney has already overbuilt on property and to just build something at DI because DVC is successful and DI was not just doesn't make sense. I think Disney is subject to a lot of criticism right now because there is the perception that they are not putting in the quality they used to. Personally we had fantastic service and a great trip last month, but they really do need to improve park attractions and quit building hotels/dvc, because without something to draw people in - they will never fill them. I love Disney (or I wouldn't have become a DVC Member), but unfortunately I think we have been spoiled by the high standards we have grown to expect over the years . It is important for Disney to realize this. Well I hope I'm just being too cynical and the plans will be fabulous - it just disturbs me that no model/artist rendering has been revealed as in the case of BCV and EPV. Personaly that area does not appeal to me- I feel like I might as well be off property- we rarely go to DD or PI. You are indeed a lucky person to live in Celebration- what a charming community!

[minster22]

My DH, who sells timeshare for a living showed me this link about the plans for DI....www.thetimesharebeat.com. I can understand how you would not be excited about this location for DVC. The company my husband works for here on Cape Cod buys existing resorts amd converts them to timeshare and each resort has turned out beautifully. When I read this press release I could visualize a great DVC resort capitalizing on the Spa aspect and the Downtown Disney area. I remember way back before the Boardwalk was built and thinking what a garish concept it was. Now it is my favorite place at WDW!!

[kem330]

Good point, Minster- I really need to wait and see the plan. I felt the same way about BW- when they built it across from Y & BC, I really thought it ruined the peacefulness of the area (although it's hard to ruin it more than the garish swan and dolphin do). But now I really enjoy all it has to offer (still wish they'd get rid of that clown face at the pool, though!) Well no one appointed me minister of esthetics LOL!

[Simba1]

kem330...no offense taken...

I guess my enthusiasm and excitement comes from a life-long appreciation for Disney's quality standards and trust. I have absolutely no reason, other than speculation, to believe that Disney will not put it's greatest minds together to ensure that the same quality that I've come to expect will be delivered into the Disney Institue project. I'm also encouraged by Disney Vacation Club's leadership and their ability to be "innovative" as a result of September 11 (if that had anything to due with DI becoming available before EP).

As for the fact that there aren't any renderings, again, I have not been let down by Disney to date, so I'm not sure where this is alarming!?! or concerning!?! The Imagineers have done a great job perserving the magic with every new structure that has been added to Disney, so I don't see any cause for worry that the same consideration won't be given to this project.

As for the location...don't they say that location is everything in real estate development? Being directly across from PI will certainly appeal to some vs. others, but I'd say that this location is prime real estate!!

And yes...Celebration is a wonderful community! ;)

:)

[PKS44]

I think Disney has already tipped it's hand as to the theming....in the press reports they talk about the great URBAN setting of DI near DD and PI...therefore the theme is likely to follow that line of thinking...The theme will be "downtown/metropolitan." Something like the New York Hotel at Disneyland Paris. Maybe a pool like Rockefeller Plaza's rink...Or Art Deco ala South Beach in Miami...

Paul

[sumessefui]

I love the idea of having a DVC at DI. Everyone has different likes and dislikes, and we like the OKW condo concept and not the hotel type DVC. To have another on site choice of the condo type is a plus to me.

[Dean]

I don't consider the DI that great of a location but in some ways it's certainly a better location than OKW is/was and I love OKW. If DVC puts those special touches that include quality and the something extra we expect from Disney, who knows. The sky may be the limit. Question is what's the price going to be compared to the overall situation and desirability.

The thing that gets me is that I see this project and Eagle Pines as having a lot of similarities. They are certianly going to be different in many ways but both are somewhat away from the action, even if you can see it from DI. The resorts should appeal to the same type of members. They will also be selling at the same time IF (and I mean if) Eagle Pines actually happens at least on time. My guess is that DVC has put EP on hold and will see how BC and the new resort go over before making a final decision. This could delay it by as little as 6-12 months or permantently. Don't expect both to open and begin sales in 2004 though.

There are many good rumors from reliable sources that say EP is on hold indefinitely. I don't put a lot of stock in what the guides say about this type of situation, I don't think they know any better than we do. Many times I don't think they know as much until the actual information is distributed to them all. That puts them very good on short term info and poor on info more than say 6 months out. Just the nature of the beast as DVC doesn't tell them too much up to a certain point. It's certainly a project that makes more sense to me than the EP does. Don't be surprised if DI ends up being a replacement for EP.

[Betty X]

We just got back from OKW and a CM told us that DI will be bulldozed because they have sunk into the ground. In its place a new DVC resort will be built. This CM had mentioned she worked at WDW since 95 and her husband was in management since 91.

[Toxicesq]

There could be some benefits to DVC in selling DI and EP concurrently. It seems to me that EP's primary attraction is golf, and as a confirmed non-golfer, I can tell you that if that if I were looking to buy DVC at a time that only EP was available, I would be out the sales office door ina minute and shopping around for a resale at one of the other DVC properties. DI may offer non-golfers an attractive home resort alternative.

[Werner Weiss]

Originally posted by Betty X
We just got back from OKW and a CM told us that DI will be bulldozed because they have sunk into the ground. In its place a new DVC resort will be built. This CM had mentioned she worked at WDW since 95 and her husband was in management since 91.
The DI Townhouses will be bulldozed according to the press release and articles. It doesn't matter whether the reason is that the Townhouses are physically sinking in the ground or are financially sinking because they lack appeal a quarter century after they were built.

I wouldn't go so far as to agree that, "DI will be bulldozed." There's no reason to believe the four announced DVC "residential-style buildings" won't leverage the current spa, restaurant space, check-in facilities and other public DI spaces. In comparison to the obsolete Townhouses, the DI core complex is new and attractive. It just happened to provide the space for an unsuccessful business initiative, the Disney Institute. I believe the "Disney Institute" name will go away in the process.

[larry_poppins]

Werner, I too think that DI will replace EP. It just makes more sense than clearing all that land around the golf courses. Already they have a vacant Pop Century, POFQ, and the vacant DI. If they build without addressing these vacancies WDW will have a slum/low rent district without guests! I say leave those trees on those golf courses.

Once the first section of DI, or whatever they call it, sells out they will start a phase 2 at the Institute.

Just my thoughts...

Larry

[teri]

It is about time. I have been saying for 2 years that DI should be converted to a DVC property.

As others have mentioned, I hope that they bring back some of the enrichment programs and provide good kid-camps and child care services. A place that has the family atmosphere of Vero Beach, the greenbelt of Ft. Wilderness, Downtown Disney a quick shuttle or walk away, an excellent spa, nice restaurant, a super pool with features, and spacious accomodations, with the rest of WDW at the back door - sounds lovely to me. I do hope they make the rooms larger than those at BWV and VWL. :)

[DVC-Don]

It just makes more sense than clearing all that land around the golf courses.

On our 1/16 to 1/27/02 trip, I saw some work going on out by EP. It looked like a new entrance road and bridge going up.