1966
A 24-minute preview of the “Florida Project,” including plans for EPCOT (“Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow”), is recorded by Walt Disney on October 27.
Walt Disney dies of lung cancer at the age of 65 on December 15; Walt’s brother, Roy, moves forward with the Disney World Project.
1967
Legislation creating the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which allows Walt Disney Productions to proceed with construction of Walt Disney World, passes both the Florida House of Representatives and Senate, and is signed into law on May 12.
Site preparation begins for Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
1968
A Florida Supreme Court ruling allows the Reedy Creek Improvement District to issue tax-free bonds to help finance the Disney World project.
1969
Construction begins on Disney’s Magic Kingdom, including Main Street U.S.A. and the 189-foot-high Cinderella Castle.