Four Seasons Resort

[KYMickey]

Can anyone confirm that other than some clearing no work has been done on the resort itself? From information I heard all the construction we've seen thus far is for the residential area on that site and its entrance. No construction has been done on the resort itself which means it is way behind its announced schedule.

 

[Crazy Hakim]

Here is some very current info:

http://www.mousesteps.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=385&Itemid=65

 

[rebecca06261]

as reported on Screamscape 3/22/10

Four Seasons Resort - (3/22/10) I’ve been sent word that what little construction we’ve been seeing on other sites labeled as being part of the Four Seasons resort really isn’t the Four Seasons at all. Apparently the Four Seasons resort proper really has yet to even do much more than some site clearing. All of the construction seen so far is really for the entrance and front end of the Golden Oak residential project.

 

[KYMickey]

Sounds like there is conflicting information about what is really happening. Of course the pictures are of something being built but it really doesn't look like a resort hotel. The write up from screamscape goes along with the other information I've heard.

 

[des1954]

The new Four Seasons resort is well underway. We were just by there on 3/26. The entrance area has landscaping and what looks to be the big marquee signs already built and just waiting for their letters. You can see cement block foundations being laid. So....it's on its way. I'm sure people thought this project might have been on hold when actually - they were working on all the infrastructure. Once that's in place the building can begin - and it has begun.

Also - across from Riverside - the land has been cleared and the foundation is being laid for the new Best Friends Pet Resort.

 

[rebecca06261]

^ it's been reported that the entrance and front end of the Golden Oak residential project and not the Four Seasons Resort. This would support and echo strong, yet unsubstantiated rumors that locals are hearing.

 

[doconeill]

Just to put it in perspective, the Best Friends place was supposed to be open last year, and they are only getting to the structure.

Flamingo Crossings has been nothing more than some dirt pushing, infrastructure, slabs and landscaping.

It is reasonable to believe that work has yet to start on the Four Seasons structure itself.

 

[DC7800]

We can only hope the (sadly mistaken) Flamingo Crossings project never progresses any further than it already has.

You can see cement block foundations being laid.

Which would be for the Golden Oak residential development, rather than the Four Seasons Resort itself.

 

[rebecca06261]

^the last I saw, which was a couple of months ago, nothing had progressed further than utility and road infrastructure. It's been in that state for roughly a year.

 

[Jason71]

^ it's been reported that the entrance and front end of the Golden Oak residential project and not the Four Seasons Resort. This would support and echo strong, yet unsubstantiated rumors that locals are hearing.

Sometime around Christmas of 2008, I heard from a reliable source that the Disney/4 Seasons deal was "90% close to being dead" [paraphrasing, it's been a while] but that Disney might go ahead with a resort on its own at the location. Thought little of it, because it was the least interesting tidbit in the conversation, and that was the last I heard on the subject until the ScreamScape post this month. Are you hearing similar rumors?

 

[doconeill]

Sometime around Christmas of 2008, I heard from a reliable source that the Disney/4 Seasons deal was "90% close to being dead" [paraphrasing, it's been a while] but that Disney might go ahead with a resort on its own at the location. Thought little of it, because it was the least interesting tidbit in the conversation, and that was the last I heard on the subject until the ScreamScape post this month. Are you hearing similar rumors?

Interestingly the location itself was, some years ago, announced as the location of a DVC resort. However, they called that off and instead rebuilt the Disney Institute into Saratoga Springs.

But I haven't heard anything about Four Seasons being killed, only that it has been slow/no going like all the other projects.

I don't know if the land status might have any effect on what might happen...has it already been de-annexed?

 

[Horace Horsecollar]

Sometime around Christmas of 2008, I heard from a reliable source that the Disney/4 Seasons deal was "90% close to being dead" [paraphrasing, it's been a while] but that Disney might go ahead with a resort on its own at the location.

Disney sold 298 acres of land to Four Seasons Hotels in late August 2008. At that time, the Orlando Sentinel reported, "Site preparation began earlier this year, and construction is expected to being next year. The hotel is slated to open by 2012."

See http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/business_tourism_aviation/2008/08/walt-disney-w-1.html

I find it hard to believe that the project was "90% close to being dead" four months after the transaction -- but that site preparation continued anyway.

(I also remember all the "reliable" reports that the Disney resort at Ko Olina, Hawaii, was dead.)

Neither Disney nor Four Seasons has any reason to issue press releases about the status of the project or to hold media events there at this time. I wouldn't be surprised of the project is delayed due to the economy and banking situation. But there's no reason to believe it's dead.

Consider the famous quotation attributed to Mark Twain: "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated."

 

[Jason71]

Disney sold 298 acres of land to Four Seasons Hotels in late August 2008. At that time, the Orlando Sentinel reported, "Site preparation began earlier this year, and construction is expected to being next year. The hotel is slated to open by 2012."

See http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/business_tourism_aviation/2008/08/walt-disney-w-1.html

I find it hard to believe that the project was "90% close to being dead" four months after the transaction -- but that site preparation continued anyway.

(I also remember all the "reliable" reports that the Disney resort at Ko Olina, Hawaii, was dead.)

Neither Disney nor Four Seasons has any reason to issue press releases about the status of the project or to hold media events there at this time. I wouldn't be surprised of the project is delayed due to the economy and banking situation. But there's no reason to believe it's dead.

Consider the famous quotation attributed to Mark Twain: "The reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated."

I found it odd at the time, but as I said, not really a subject all that important to me, so I just kind of let it go. But isn't ScreamScape basically saying no site prep actually took place? And a lack of action combined with more rumors of its demise would, in fact, be reason to believe it's dead. That's why I asked for clarification on what the other rumors are.

 

[Horace Horsecollar]

I found it odd at the time, but as I said, not really a subject all that important to me, so I just kind of let it go. But isn't ScreamScape basically saying no site prep actually took place? And a lack of action combined with more rumors of its demise would, in fact, be reason to believe it's dead. That's why I asked for clarification on what the other rumors are.

I know that land at Eagle Pines has been cleared. Beyond that, I don't know how much preliminary work has been done.

In 2008, the Orlando Sentinel wrote, "The hotel is slated to open by 2012." If one assumes around 18 months of serious construction, then it's not surprising that there's no vertical construction visible yet. If the date will slip to later in 2012, or even 2013 or 2014, then it's even less surprising that nothing major is happening now.

Four Seasons owns the land. It's been de-annexed from the RCID. Ground has been cleared. Now it's up to Four Seasons to decide how they'll proceed.

 

[KYMickey]

Four Seasons owns the land. It's been de-annexed from the RCID. Ground has been cleared. Now it's up to Four Seasons to decide how they'll proceed.

Have you found any documentation that the land was actually de-annexed? I did a lot of searching but I can only find where it was sold. It also stated that Disney was doing some of the preliminary grading work. I also found another article that stated Disney made retain ownership of the partial ownership homes (super DVC?). Makes me wonder if the ball is really in Four Seasons Resort's court or if it's still in Disney's.

 

[Horace Horsecollar]

Have you found any documentation that the land was actually de-annexed? I did a lot of searching but I can only find where it was sold.

Yes. Look for the 2008 ANNUAL REPORT, UTILITIES SYSTEM, REEDY CREEK IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, which you can Google. Within the document, you'll find:

"During the fiscal year ending September 30, 2008, the District sold and de-annexed land associated with the Flamingo Crossings project on the western boundary and the Northeast Resort Parcel."​

The "Northeast Resort Parcel" is the Four Seasons site.

I also found another article that stated Disney made retain ownership of the partial ownership homes (super DVC?). Makes me wonder if the ball is really in Four Seasons Resort's court or if it's still in Disney's.

Where did you find that?

As far I know the full and partial ownership homes are on the Four Seasons property.

 

[KYMickey]

Here is the article that talks about the possibility of Disney developing and possibly branding some of the partial ownership units.
http://www.mouseplanet.com/8091/Walt_Disney_World_Park_Update

 

[Horace Horsecollar]

Here is the article that talks about the possibility of Disney developing and possibly branding some of the partial ownership units.
http://www.mouseplanet.com/8091/Walt_Disney_World_Park_Update

Thank you!

Although that article is over three years old and is at a Disney fan website, it seems well written and well researched.

Most reports made it seem as if the full and partial ownership homes would be developed within the Four Seasons complex under the direction of Four Seasons. But with the Golden Oaks name and logo now released, it suddenly makes sense that the "Northeast Resort Parcel" isn't just about Four Seasons.

 

[Kagehitokiri]

so golden oaks is 980 acres and 450 full ownership residences (mentions "proposed" four seasons resort)

www.allthingsdiz.blogspot.com/2008/09/wdw-and-four-seasons-update.html (blog referring to public records)
four seasons lot was originally stated to be 298 acres (pre lehman )
* has anyone seen any four seasons "lot" updates?
* has some of it been shifted to golden oaks?
im wondering if there is any land for potential four seasons residences/fractionals in the future.
there is this, but doesnt account for 298 acres vs 980 acres >
www.screamscape.com/html/walt_disney_world_resort.htm (blog)

(12/30/09) A Screamscape source has come to tell us a bit more about an small residential area being built as part of the Four Seasons Resort on WDW Property. They tell us that it will be named Golden Oak

actually, i guess the 980 acres includes the 298 acres, which might make it even harder to tell. doh.

Homes may not be rented for a period less than 180 days.

at golden oak. wow. im really surprised disney is not doing hotel rentals. revenue could be insane, like over peak holidays. without rentals, i guess the margins on things like housekeeping arent worthwhile. (no mention of offering for a fee.)

re "insane" potential revenue, and in the context of four seasons - four seasons costa rica has a residence that runs up to $18,000/nt and upcoming residences at four seasons bora bora and four seasons seychelles could run even higher than that.

 

[PortMickey]

Here is the official info I have seen on Golden Oaks:

Golden Oak at Walt Disney World®Resortis designed to meet the desires of affluent families with a strong affinity for Disney. Disney has created a one-of-a-kind resort community destination at The Walt Disney World®Resortfor those who dream of a unique way to bring the magic of Disney to their family and guests.
Golden Oak at Walt Disney World®Resort will be a
private retreat for its residents, offering dedicated concierge and resident services, exclusive amenities and events at the Summerhouse clubhouse, and a unique opportunity to experience the many things Disney has to offer.
The custom homes of Golden Oak at Walt Disney
World®Resort demonstrate Disney’s commitment
to detail through architectural precedent. Six
Mediterranean and Caribbean-influenced architectural
styles were chosen and meticulously developed to create a genuine sense of luxury.
A select group of expert custom homebuilders was chosen to build homes that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World®Resort,a 445-guest room hotel, is planned to be located within Golden Oak and offer residents close proximity to superlative restaurants, full-service spa and a championship golf course designed by Tom Fazio.
Golden Oak at Walt Disney World®Resortis a resort community unlike anything that has come before.
The Golden Oak Homebuyer
Golden Oak homebuyers have a deep affinity for Disney and a desire to find a place that creates special value for their family. Golden Oak will resonate with homebuyers for its privacy, escape, enriched lifestyle and proximity to TheWalt Disney World® Resort. Location continues to be important –and for families who enjoy Disney, this is a unique product that cannot be found anywhere else.

Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort is the only luxury, master planned resort community being developed at the Walt Disney World®Resort. A private, gated community, this one-of-a-kind resort development blends world-class architecture with Florida’s natural environment and surroundings. Artfully designed with exquisite attention to quality and detail, the single-family homes will be the first product available for purchase at Walt Disney World®Resort. The initial phase will consist of 81 homesites featuring four distinct neighborhoods of homes built by custom homebuilders. The homes will follow strict design guidelines and draw inspiration from old-world Mediterranean and Caribbean architecture with Venetian, Dutch, and Tuscan design influences. At full build out, Golden Oak is anticipated to include approximately 450 homes.

Community life at Golden Oak will revolve around exceptional and enriching family experiences. As a resident, your choices to create them will be plentiful, with exclusive amenities, activities and events, concierge and resident services and Disney park offerings. Many will be inclusive to home ownership; others will be for-fee options to further enhance your resort lifestyle.
Family Resort Living: At the heart of this
exceptional community experience is a collection of
amenities, events, and activities including; a well-rounded program of events throughout the
year at Summerhouse, proximity to the proposed Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World®Resort, and access to beautiful park areas and pathways
winding throughout the community.
Concierge & Resident Services brings Disney’s guest service culture directly to residents and guests. A dedicated team will help arrange personal, residential and resort requests such as move-in services, pre-arrival
and post-departure home maintenance services, travel
and private transportation, Disney parks and special event tickets, golf tee-times, dinner reservations, private VIP tours, in-home dinners and parties, holiday home decorating, grocery shopping, errands and more.
The Disney Connection allows residents the opportunity to experience the many things Disney has to offer. As an initial offer, homebuyers who close on the sale of a homesite or a completed home by December 31, 2011 will receive up to four (4) complimentary Disney Premium Annual Passes valid for five (5) years! Residents will enjoy door-to-park transportation to each Walt Disney World®Resort theme park and select Disney restaurants, Extra Magic Hours daily in one of the four Walt Disney World®Theme Parks, merchandise delivery to their home, complimentary golf services and Disney Atmosphere Entertainment throughout the year within the community. In-park special event tickets and greens fees at Disney golf courses will be available for purchase at a discounted rate for residents. Beyond the initial offer, the Premium Annual Pass will be available to Golden Oak residents at the Florida Resident (or Florida Resident Renewal rate) as applicable.

Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort brings together Disney and Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts; two globally respected brands known for creating cherished guest experiences and offering exceptional service and amenities.
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World®Resort is planned to be located at Golden Oak and feature a 445-guest room hotel, a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, restaurants, facilities for meetings and private events and a full-service spa. Golden Oak residents will enjoy close proximity to all these Four Seasons amenities.
©Disney

Golden Oak at Walt Disney World® Resort is governed by the Golden Oak Non-Residential Association. Homeowners are also governed by a separate home owners association (HOA).Both associations have engaged Capital Consultants Management Corporation (CCMC) to be the on-site property manager. Non-Residential Association services include:
•Landscape and irrigation maintenance services (Kimball Trace homes only)
•Bulk services agreement to provide high speed, fiber-to-the-home internet, phone and cable television services
•24 hour controlled gatehouse staffing, including roving security patrol
•Maintenance of gatehouse, landscaping, roads, sidewalks, street lighting, parks, sculptures, walls, ponds water features and other common areas
•Pest and animal control of common areas
•Seasonal holiday decorations for common areasKEYRESIDENTIALCOVENANTS
•Funds are payable to the Golden Oak Non-Residential Association on certain resales, such as:
•75% of any profit if resale occurs before completion of construction of home.
•50% of any profit if construction of home had already begun but not completed at time of initial purchase, and resale occurs within 2 years following completion of construction.
•50% of any profit if construction of home was already completed at time of initial purchase from developer or builder, and resale occurs within 2 years of initial purchase date.
•For all resales, a working fund contribution equal to 2 times amount of then current HOA annual regular assessment.Initial purchase from developer or builder is not subject to this contribution.
•Homes may not be rented for a period less than 180 days.•Each homeowner will be a member of the HOA, and will pay assessments levied by the HOA in accordance with the covenants and declarations.
ENTITLEMENTSPlanned Development-Commercial Residential zoning
Maximum residential density: 4 DU/acre
GOVERNMENTGolden Oak homes are located within Orange County, FLwhich will provide police and fire services.
UTILITIESWater and sewer will be provided by Orange County Utilities.
Refuse removal service will be provided by Orange County.
Reclaimed water will be provided by Orange County.
Natural gas will be provided by TECO Energy.
PUBLICSCHOOLSSunset Park Elementary Kindergarten -5th Grade
Bridgewater Middle 6th Grade -8th Grade
West Orange High 9th Grade -12th Grade
©Disney

Since you can not rent these homes for less than 180 days, It looks much more like a residential neighborhood like Celebration then a resort hotel. The land is cleared where the Four Season is supposed to go but I have not seen anything confirmed on the actual hotel being started yet. The Prospectus to Future homeowners states the Four Seasons Hotel is still in the plans to be built, but does not say anything about the Four Seasons fractional ownership properties. From everything I have seen, It looks like Golden Oaks is replacing the Four Seasons Fractional ownership Homes. Disney already de-annexed the land and they had to do something with it. It is plain old Orange County now. If Four Seasons did not want to move forward on the Single Family homes, Disney is developing it as Golden Oaks. It looks like the Four Seasons Hotel is still the plan, but I have not seen any start or finish dates anywhere. There is plenty of land if Four Seasons wants to do the Fractional Single family homes in the future or Disney will just finish that area with Golden Oaks homes.