Monorails to no longer operate during Evening Extra Magic Hours

[maiapapaya]

Not looking for a fight, just explaining that it's not right to do what you suggest (on a lot of levels). Not sure if you clearly read all of what I wrote...

I have clearly read all of what you wrote. Obviously we have different opinions.

Right and the monorail isn't one of those things. It's included with the cost of admission as part of the Disney transportation system.

And you're talking about people needing to provide a resort ID to get into Epcot, that's ANY resort ID, not a specific ID.

Actually, no, I'm not. You may not enter the Epcot monorail ramp at the TTC on EMH mornings before a certain time without a resort ID. There are CM's at the bottom of the ramp limiting access. I gave EMH as an example of guests receiving priority service because they've paid extra for it (which you implied doesn't/isn't supposed to happen) and I gave the Epcot example as a circumstance when access to the monorail is limited to those who have paid extra for a service (the EMH).


Right, and as others have pointed out there are many valid reasons why someone not staying at one of these resorts would want/need to use the monorail...

Other than guests staying at a monorail resort the main reason at this time of night that most people would need access would be for ADR's, which I talked about (and said wouldn't be an issue). If you read my posts clearly, I suggested that resort ID's only be checked for MK boarding under very specific circumstances. I also suggested that access should only be limited, under those circumstances, for guests trying to use the resort loop as transportation to the TTC from the MK. I never said access should be limited for people wanting to go to the resorts, regardless of the reason.

I never judged anyone and I never indicated I have a chip on my shoulder. You are the one wanting to exclude people based on where they're staying...not me.

The resorts you speak of are not more expensive just because they're on the loop. Let's not loose sight of that.

Considering that they are more expensive than the other deluxes, including WL which is in the same geographic area, I would say this is a large part of it.

They revoked this service for ALL guests, not just people staying at the monorail resorts. This is my point, some people make it seem like those who are paying extra to stay at these resorts are the only ones who are inconvenienced and should have access to the monorail. This is just wrong.

Yes they did. But in doing so they took away an amenity (for a good part of the evening during certain times of the year) that is included for a particular category of resort. Based on the rumour on the DVC thread that they are considering running the resort monorail until 11:00 it would appear that they are trying to come up with a compromise to fix the situation. They are not reinstating service with the express monorail from MK to TTC. This would imply then that runnning the resort monorail is to service people travelling to these resorts (for dining or accommodation) and is not intended as service to the TTC from the MK.

Again, you make it seem like people staying there just shouldn't be inconvenienced at all because they paid extra. If that isn't elitist, I really don't know what is.

I'm not saying they shouldn't be inconvenienced. I'm saying they should be provided with the service they paid for. You, clearly don't see it that way and you're entitled to your opinion. If you paid extra to stay at a resort that provides monorail service then have you not paid more to use the monorail?

Why not just make everyone staying at those resorts wear a special badge or shirt so we can all recognize who they are. This way, we can all get out of their way so they're not inconvenienced with crowds down Main St. Or how about having a special line for attractions for them while we're at it. We wouldn't want them waiting on line with the riff raff...

And this is where the chip on the shoulder comment comes in. All I ever said was related to MONORAIL service, UNDER VERY SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES and you call me an elitist (multiple times) and say that what I'm posting is BS and then go off with your sarcasm about people staying at these resorts and expecting special treatment all the time for everything.
Whether you intended to sound like that or not, that's what you sound like when you make this argument. I'm just trying to point that out not be argumentative....

reference my last comment

-

 

[kaytieeldr]

Actually, no, I'm not. You may not enter the Epcot monorail ramp at the TTC on EMH mornings before a certain time without a resort ID.

I'm not sure that's accurate. Offsite guests taking an Epcot tour and whose hotel transportation takes them only to the TTC would need early access to the monorail.

I also suggested that access should only be limited, under those circumstances, for guests trying to use the resort loop as transportation to the TTC from the MK.

How reasonable is it to restrict monorail access from the majority of its users? Yes, I understand the people staying at the four properties on 'the loop' pay a lot to do that. They're vastly outnumbered, if not outspent, by people visiting Magic Kingdom for the day. If WDW is going to cave in and operate the monorail anyway, sheer numbers dictate the need for a TTC stop on each trip.

I'm not saying they shouldn't be inconvenienced. I'm saying they should be provided with the service they paid for. You, clearly don't see it that way and you're entitled to your opinion. If you paid extra to stay at a resort that provides monorail service then have you not paid more to use the monorail?

Do you mean 'paid more for location and amenities? Sure, you should get the service for which you paid. In this case, though, the guests will (or would, if Disney doesn't cave) be getting the service - just, at predictable and scheduled times, not in the mode they desire.

 

[Traveliz]

Quote:
Originally Posted by maiapapaya
Actually, no, I'm not. You may not enter the Epcot monorail ramp at the TTC on EMH mornings before a certain time without a resort ID.

kaytieeldr:
I'm not sure that's accurate. Offsite guests taking an Epcot tour and whose hotel transportation takes them only to the TTC would need early access to the monorail.

It is correct that on EE mornings you have to show a resort ID (any Disney resort is fine) to access the Epcot mornorail from the TTC. At least that was my experience last July. It might be possible that if you had tour confirmation (same for ADRs) you would be able to get through though.

Liz

 

[Robo]

(Making appropriate caveats as to accuracy of the info of the Resort Monorails hours of operation...)

No matter what happens, looks like there will be very, very, VERY unhappy guests.

Obviously, nothing will appease them, in this regard. No-thing.

The fact that there ARE Monorails that service certain resorts and not others is a complaint of the first order.

Therefore, I can't worry much as to whom is or is not "happy" about the revised hours.

My purpose is to try to discover the most accurate info... and post it as clearly as possible...
amidst some of the most hyperbolic b---hing and moaning I've read on these boards in my past 55,000+ post history.

Holy mass transit, Batman!!


.

 

[Planogirl]

Buses. In the first case, bus from the GF to DtD, then bus directly to your resort.
In the second case, bus from wherever you are to DtD, then transfer to the GF bus. Reverse for the return trip. Exception: if you're coming from an open park - generally Epcot or DHS - direct transportation. That would b a bus from DHS, and if the MK monorail had stopped running, probably the 'direct' Epcot/Poly/GF bus - but never hesitate to ask a Transportation CM for advice!

I forgot to mention it but we drive whether onsite or offsite and park by the T&TC. I think that it might be easier to actually ride the buses in this case. Even that nightmare run to Downtown Disney might be less confusing.

 

[maiapapaya]

I'm not sure that's accurate. Offsite guests taking an Epcot tour and whose hotel transportation takes them only to the TTC would need early access to the monorail.

It is because I have experienced it more than once. I'm not sure how they handle off site guests with tours & early ADR's. Maybe they have a list like they do at the park gate for pre-rope drop ADR's.

How reasonable is it to restrict monorail access from the majority of its users? Yes, I understand the people staying at the four properties on 'the loop' pay a lot to do that. They're vastly outnumbered, if not outspent, by people visiting Magic Kingdom for the day. If WDW is going to cave in and operate the monorail anyway, sheer numbers dictate the need for a TTC stop on each trip.

I do not pretend to know how TPTB make decisions. But an hour after park closing they have decided to shut down the monorail (for maintenance, cost cutting, what ever the real reason is?). The situation being discussed here would imply that they are trying to continue monorail service to the monorail resorts, not the TTC. Perhaps they don't want this policy affecting reservations for these resorts because that is probably the main reason many people stay there.

Do you mean 'paid more for location and amenities? Sure, you should get the service for which you paid. In this case, though, the guests will (or would, if Disney doesn't cave) be getting the service - just, at predictable and scheduled times, not in the mode they desire.

Considering the other deluxes offer all the same amenties (wrt theming, restaurants, room quality, pools etc) and the WL is in a similar location, the premium rates charged for these particular resorts would imply that monorail service is the main reason for this. So in the minds of most guests at these resorts they are paying more (than for the other deluxes) for monorail service. This was not offered with limitations when most guests with current reservations booked these resorts. The understanding was that monorail service would be available to their resorts as per the normal operating schdule (with the exception of breakdowns). I don't get why some people think it's wrong to be upset that this is not now the case. Any one who booked with this expectation and who has already paid in full or can't find a comparable alternative for their dates is now stuck and, in a sense, not necessarily getting what they've paid for. You're right, the transportation service being offered is probably not in "the mode they desire" because they paid a premium for that mode. Rooms were booked and then WDW changed "the rules". Sure, as a business it's within their rights (and I'm sure there's tons of fine print to back that up from a legal perspective) but that doesn't mean that people don't have the right to be upset about not getting what they believed they were paying for.

-

 

[KSDisneyDad]

(Making appropriate caveats as to accuracy of the info of the Resort Monorails hours of operation...)

No matter what happens, looks like there will be very, very, VERY unhappy guests.

Obviously, nothing will appease them, in this regard. No-thing.

The fact that there ARE Monorails that service certain resorts and not others is a complaint of the first order.

Therefore, I can't worry much as to whom is or is not "happy" about the revised hours.

My purpose is to try to discover the most accurate info... and post it as clearly as possible...
amidst some of the most hyperbolic b---hing and moaning I've read on these boards in my past 55,000+ post history.

Holy mass transit, Batman!!


.

I can't agree more and I "only" have a tenth of your post count!!!

 

[sandym718]

If Disney truly means to have the Resort Monorail stay open specifically for Monorail resort guests (and possibly ADR holders), then wouldn't that monorail just NOT stop at the TTC?

I'm not saying this IS what Disney is intending, just asking the question.

 

[snykymom]

Do you work for Disney...in PR?

I'm just trying to get an answer. The monorails are so dilapidated and dangerous, they need to close for maintenance or it's a tiny cutback, or they don't know, who leaked...such outrageous information? Hey, I'm just trying to plan a vacation. Which CM do I believe? Should i just spin the wheel and play roulette? Should I say, never mind, not renew my APs and go to Universal and Seaworld? Information seems to be very inconsistent.

If you're "just trying to plan a vacation", then why does it matter if it's maintenance or if it's a cutback, if it saves money or if it's necessary? Why difference does the reason make? If you think the reason is legitimate, you'll go, but if you don't, you won't? Now, I understand if all you want to know is which monorails will be running when, but the rest is irrelevant to your plans.

I think maybe we're just misunderstanding each other Cafeen. The way I understand the potential situation, and then my hope that the resort monorail may be monitored was this ... if the park closes at 8:00, the express monorail would shut down at 9:00 and the resort monorail (according to what was posted in the DVC thread) would stay open until 11:00. I never suggested that from 8:00 to 9:00 that either monorail was limited to resort guests only - both monorails would continue to service everyone as they always do. I was suggesting that after 9:00, when the express would go off line that if tons of people were trying to use it to get to the TTC, when the implication is that management is trying to acccommodate monorail resort guests, that if overcrowding became a problem that the monorail resort guests be given priority.

They could deal with this issue very easily: have the resort monorail not stop at the TTC. Then only resort guests would be able to get where they wanted to go. Guests from Epcot could take a bus directly to their resorts if the Epcot loop stopped or if Epcot guests needed to get to the TTC directly.

 

[sandym718]

They could deal with this issue very easily: have the resort monorail not stop at the TTC. Then only resort guests would be able to get where they wanted to go. Guests from Epcot could take a bus directly to their resorts if the Epcot loop stopped or if Epcot guests needed to get to the TTC directly.

I guess we were having a similar thought at the same time!

 

[crostorfer]

"Why not just make everyone staying at those resorts wear a special badge or shirt so we can all recognize who they are. This way, we can all get out of their way so they're not inconvenienced with crowds down Main St. Or how about having a special line for attractions for them while we're at it. We wouldn't want them waiting on line with the riff raff..."

Am I the only one that actually likes this idea? Anyone....anyone....Bueller......

 

[KSDisneyDad]

If Disney truly means to have the Resort Monorail stay open specifically for Monorail resort guests (and possibly ADR holders), then wouldn't that monorail just NOT stop at the TTC?

I'm not saying this IS what Disney is intending, just asking the question.

Good question and I hope that is not the case (and we stay at BLT). I realize that you're only innocently responding and my post is intended to share my thoughts only in response to those who actually think Disney should limit monorail service only to monorail guests.

It would seem to me the ONLY reason to limit monorail service to monorail resort guests after a certain time is to prevent crowding. I guess that I believe that between one hour after closing and 11:00 pm, that most guests would be staying at a WDW resort somewhere. (Hard ticket events excluded as that hasn't been decided as far as I know, but it's hard to keep up). And isn't all WDW transportation open to all resort guests (even in the Epcot examples given)? To desire to limit monorail service to only resort guests to prevent crowding comes across as elitist, even if that's not the intent.

Plus, I always thought that the monorail/ferries were designed to transport guests to and from the parking lot as well as to be a means of transportation for those staying at the CR or Poly (and later GF). Granted, there are two MK monorail tracks - Express and Resort. However, many resort guests drive to the MK rather than take Disney transportation. Not everyone is enamored with the Disney bus system. Yes, those guests can still get to the TTC via the ferry, but why limit it to just the ferries if the monorail is also running? Disney should not turn anyone away from the monorail if you enter the station by closing time. For that reason alone, again the ONLY reason to limit monorail service to only monorail resort guests is so that those guests don't have to wait in line a bit longer. While we're at it, why don't we ask Disney to change the direction of the resort monorail resort loop at park closing? The GF and Poly generally cost a lot more than the CR. Don't those guests deserve to be dropped off first as they paid more?

 

[TLSnell1981]

If you're "just trying to plan a vacation", then why does it matter if it's maintenance or if it's a cutback, if it saves money or if it's necessary? Why difference does the reason make? If you think the reason is legitimate, you'll go, but if you don't, you won't? Now, I understand if all you want to know is which monorails will be running when, but the rest is irrelevant to your plans.

.

Actually, the reason DOES matter. If, the original closure was due to safety reasons, but Disney backed off, potentially because of lost revenue?. I have a concern. If, the true reason pertains cutbacks ...but they lied? I have a problem with their credibility.

Transportation is an important issue for my family. Some of us, have limited mobility and location is very important when choosing a resort. I also, plan and book our trips, almost a year out...not on the fly. This may not be an issue for some, but it is for us.

 

[Colleen27]

If Disney truly means to have the Resort Monorail stay open specifically for Monorail resort guests (and possibly ADR holders), then wouldn't that monorail just NOT stop at the TTC?

I'm not saying this IS what Disney is intending, just asking the question.

That doesn't really make sense, financially, because it would require both buses and the monorail to run where one or the other could suffice. There is no point in having the Epcot line running until 10 or 10:30 if the express line closes at 9 and the resort line isn't stopping at the TTC, because they'd still need to add bus routes to serve monorail guests who would have no way to get from the TTC to their resort.

 

[Cafeen]

Actually, the reason DOES matter. If, the original closure was due to safety reasons, but Disney backed off, potentially because of lost revenue?. I have a concern. If, the true reason pertains cutbacks bus...but they lied? I have a problem with their credibility.

Transportation is an important issue for my family. Some of us, have limited mobility and location is very important when choosing a resort. I also, plan and book our trips, almost a year out...not on the fly. This may not be an issue for some, but it is for us.

(Not being snarky)

So you have a problem either way then? The reason seems to matter only for which battle you want to fight. If it's unsafe and they backed down, or if they lied and are untrustworthy. There have not been any other explanations that I've seen, so it's going to be an issue either way then.

(Again, no snark in there at all. Really and honestly.)

The disconnect between the fact that that both rails (since we're only talking express and resort right now) need maintenance (this is coming from their released statements, not my personal beliefs as I simply don't know), and then the ability to run the resort until 11 (if that actually ends up being the case) can be explained by then focusing on one first, then the other, instead of both (with a smaller crew each) at the same time. Whether that's correct and what's happening or not, I don't know, but it offers a fully plausible explanation on how it can be done which may assuage your safety fears some.

If the 11pm thing is true, barring party nights (since their message is now that they are yet undecided), it seems that most everyone's issues will be taken care of (dining and resort hopping included). Once they release the party night details then we'll know more for sure, not that it helps right now. Sad truth is, until the first week of August hits, we're not going to have a true answer as to what their plans are, and deeper, until the parties start rolling we won't have a complete answer, even if they say "We'll keep them open until 1am! (all times and availability subject to change).

So, yep, I certainly understand the frustration and the value placed on the transportation that, while may only make up 2% of the total time, could make up 50% of your own time. I just don't think we're going to find the answer until the parties start rolling (and probably a week or two after that, as they'll make adjustments as time goes on).

And, reading what I just wrote, I think that's another spot of confusion with some people. We all understand that it's a small portion of the total available time, however, what sets the value of that time to us is when it's available for us to use. If that 2% overall reduction creates a 50% reduction to me, the value of the service is certainly going to drop. If my local cable company decided to turn off between 8 and 9pm every night, it's only 1/24 of a day and less than a 5% decrease in service, but if I only watched TV between 8 and 11pm daily, that's a 33% decrease in value.

 

[sandym718]

That doesn't really make sense, financially, because it would require both buses and the monorail to run where one or the other could suffice. There is no point in having the Epcot line running until 10 or 10:30 if the express line closes at 9 and the resort line isn't stopping at the TTC, because they'd still need to add bus routes to serve monorail guests who would have no way to get from the TTC to their resort.

You're right. For us, at the Poly, it would still work, but not for GF, CR or BLT. Taking it further, and as other posters have stated, any of this only makes sense if they're just going to focus on vehicle maintenance or if it's rail, one line at a time.

It would seem to me the ONLY reason to limit monorail service to monorail resort guests after a certain time is to prevent crowding. I guess that I believe that between one hour after closing and 11:00 pm, that most guests would be staying at a WDW resort somewhere. (Hard ticket events excluded as that hasn't been decided as far as I know, but it's hard to keep up). And isn't all WDW transportation open to all resort guests (even in the Epcot examples given)? To desire to limit monorail service to only resort guests to prevent crowding comes across as elitist, even if that's not the intent.

I agree, I think It will be interesting to see what Disney does, if this all comes to pass. If this is just needed for maintenance purposes, will they actually direct folks leaving the MK 2 hours after regular closing TO the resort monorail, or ferry? To prevent overcrowding at either? Or will they strongly encourage the ferry, but not prevent resort monorail usage? Or will they restrict resort monorail usage, as some posters have discussed?

I really don't think they should, either, though as a Poly guest, I'd hate to see it get too crowded. Overall, though, if the resort monorail continues, I really have no issue. Epcot line closing and needing to take the bus is a bigger issue for me, but still small potatoes considering it's only for evening EMH.

 

[DisneyChristmas]

Any further "official" explanation? In effect now?

 

[Cafeen]

Any further "official" explanation? In effect now?

As of today, the "official" party line is:
1) Epcot Monorail to close 1 hour after "normal" closing time. Buses used to bring remaining guests to TTC/CR and Poly/GF as well as all normal buses and watercraft. This is in effect right now.

2) "Magic Kingdom" line to close 1 hour after "normal" closing time starting Aug 1. The latest from DVC Member Services is that the MK Resort line will remain open until 11pm if the MK Express line closes before that point. Buses and watercraft should be available after the express line closes.*

3) The reasoning behind this is for maintenance purposes to allow the crews more time to maintain the beams.**

4) What to do on party nights has yet to be decided.***

* It would be speculation to ... well... speculate on what happens when MK closes at or after 11pm after Aug 1 with regards to the resort line. Is it the latest of closing + 1hr and 11pm? Or just a flat 11pm? This will need confirmation once the MK lines are affected by the changes.

** This is the official information, what they released officially. Yes, we all heard the stuff before that announcement and that's half of what this thread is about. I get that, don't come at me with those pitchforks, no, please put those torches away, they're dangerous. Por favor manténganse alejado de las puertas...

*** Again, just repeating the official information. Yes, the internal memos said "events" and this suggests parties, but the official line which is what I'm summarizing is that it's undecided.

 

[Sammie]

Has anyone other than the one person on the DVC forums been told that the resort monorail will run unto 11pm, because I haven't.

And I have talked to DVC also.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Some of doconeill's suggestions were intentionally extreme and exaggerated. This one is just, again, elitist: "Pay enough to stay here, use the monorail; buy only some food or merchandise, use the transportation about which our room guests are whining!".

Seriously?

Well I respectfully disagree because I don't see what's so wrong about what I said. Is it not true that when leaving the Magic Kingdom there are other options besides the Resort Monorail when wanting to visit those resorts? Now I highly doubt WDW will ever make the Resort Monorail's exclusive to guests staying at those resorts, even in busy times when it's the only Monorail operating and that's if it's true about it stopping at 11:00 PM. However I do think that's something WDW should at least talk about and I wouldn't be surprised if they did.