As someone with a close, personal relationship with Ariel, I know that The Grotto was desperately in need of a refurbishing!!!!!!!! Originally it was partially enclosed with an open area overlooking the 20,000 Leagues area. Ariel was able to wave at King Triton. When construction began on 20,000 Leagues, they temporarily closed the Grotto's open wall--there was very little ventilation which made the inside of the Grotto an OVEN!!! As we all know, Ariel is used to the cool water of the sea and she--as well as the guests--was quite miserable. :-( Finally some temporary a/c was installed which helped somewhat. The high humidity level inside the Grotto continued though and caused a LOT of deterioration . Now the Grotto will be totally enclosed and climate controlled.Supposedly, they are going to try and lower Ariel's rock a bit so it's easier for the children to reach Ariel (and easier on Ariel's back--as she frequently had to bend waaaaay over to reach the 'little ones').
