Official Poly construction update thread **updated video page 103(2/17/15)**

[tiger4me2]

I have been told by a few sources that walls will be up sometime around September 7 - 9. I am very interested to see what happens around that time.

I guess I shouldn't be shock by this but I am getting rather tired of how Disney do things. Why not be truthful & let the guest decide to stay or not ? I guess I still wait & see when I get there as it is only one night but if what say is true then I will ask for a discount for the room. I still think it better to go now than later

Ty for all you do for keeping us informed

 

[jl234]

I have been told by a few sources that walls will be up sometime around September 7 - 9. I am very interested to see what happens around that time.

Those are the dates that we will be there. We'll keep an eye out and post what we see happening.

 

[fitzperry]

I guess I shouldn't be shock by this but I am getting rather tired of how Disney do things. Why not be truthful & let the guest decide to stay or not ? I guess I still wait & see when I get there as it is only one night but if what say is true then I will ask for a discount for the room. I still think it better to go now than later

Ty for all you do for keeping us informed

I'm not sure it's a matter of being untruthful. It is very common for large construction projects like this to get off schedule and to be subject to various types of changes. Even a relatively minor delay of a week or two (or getting similarly ahead of schedule) would make a huge difference in the planning process for guests traveling during that time. You simply can't nail these things down to the narrow windows people need for planning vacations. Also, keeping staff apprised of what is happening when would be a huge endeavor, no doubt fraught with problems. I'd love to know what will be going on the first week in December when we're going, but I think it would be worse to change plans based on an announcement that didn't pan out than it is to be aware that things are uncertain. I suspect it's safer for Disney to leave things up in the air and deal with complaints as they come.

FWIW, I've stayed in plenty of hotels that were undergoing construction and I don't recall ever being notified in advance. One was a Ritz-Carlton--main pool was closed the entire time we were there. I don't think this policy is unique to Disney.

 

[Adlergray]

So if wb-1 gets going is it going to cut out the wishes viewing from the Hawaii lounge?

 

[Jennygt]

I'm not sure it's a matter of being untruthful. It is very common for large construction projects like this to get off schedule and to be subject to various types of changes. Even a relatively minor delay of a week or two (or getting similarly ahead of schedule) would make a huge difference in the planning process for guests traveling during that time. You simply can't nail these things down to the narrow windows people need for planning vacations. Also, keeping staff apprised of what is happening when would be a huge endeavor, no doubt fraught with problems. I'd love to know what will be going on the first week in December when we're going, but I think it would be worse to change plans based on an announcement that didn't pan out than it is to be aware that things are uncertain. I suspect it's safer for Disney to leave things up in the air and deal with complaints as they come.

FWIW, I've stayed in plenty of hotels that were undergoing construction and I don't recall ever being notified in advance. One was a Ritz-Carlton--main pool was closed the entire time we were there. I don't think this policy is unique to Disney.

I agree and disagree,yes it would be hard to be pinpoint accurate, but to say nothing at all is just a lazy way out I feel. I have stayed at a holiday inn and they even informed me of construction when I made the reservation. At this point they know what will be happening during the first few weeks of September, I am sure they have some way to communicate to cm what is happening in the next month at least .

 

[bluejasmine]

I agree and disagree, it would be a hard yes to be pinpoint accurate, but to say nothing at all is just a lazy way out I feel. I have stayed at a holiday inn and they even informed me of construction when I made the reservation. At this point they know what will be during the first few weeks of September, I am sure they have some way to communicate to cm what is happening in the next month at least .

Well said!!! I do think its ridiculous that they haven't informed their guests or CMs.. I adore Disney and The Poly but for this they were obviously looking out for their bottom line instead of their guests! I check in next weekend at CL and have yet to hear any info from The Poly or Disney that I haven't specifically asked for. In fact had I not been here on DIS I wouldn't have known about any of the construction until I checked in. I have been able to prepare my husband for the wall that I here will be up infront of the Hawaii LH beach but if I hadn't they would have had one ticked off guest! Especially considering we just spent $5100 for this vacation!

 

[Jennygt]

Well said!!! I do think its ridiculous that they haven't informed their guests or CMs.. I adore Disney and The Poly but for this they were obviously looking out for their bottom line instead of their guests! I check in next weekend at CL and have yet to hear any info from The Poly or Disney that I haven't specifically asked for. In fact had I not been here on DIS I wouldn't have known about any of the construction until I checked in. I have been able to prepare my husband for the wall that I here will be up infront of the Hawaii LH beach but if I hadn't they would have had one ticked off guest! Especially considering we just spent $5100 for this vacation!

I hope you have a great trip no matter what. Walls up depending on the location could be a bummer if you are on ground level. September is a great month at wdw!

 

[Jennygt]

Tikimans FB page reporting some hammocks removed from beach area, not a big deal but makes you wonder if this is in prep for the walls said to go up soon?

 

[bluejasmine]

It must be!

 

[Princess Katherine]

Tiki says that they may need repair and will be back soon.

Katie

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

(big sigh).....So sad all this is happening. I feel this DVC is changing the feel of the Poly forever. When it is all complete, I think I will stay on the Luau side of the resort so that I do not have to look over those bungalows on the water when gazing out at the castle over the lagoon. I hope the beach area near Fiji stays pure! The only thing I am looking forward to is a new main pool. I am hoping they will make the main pool bigger and add more cabanas and bar space. I know many are upset that the volcano may be vanished but I am sure they will create a great themed pool area As long as they keep the view of the castle from the pool, it is all good.

For our upcoming late July 2014, I am keeping Poly as an option--just in case construction is at a minimum. But for my planning, I am leaning toward the GF with CR as a back-up. GF has a great room layout for our family, basically all rooms have balconies, and I love the food options at the resort. Hoping they have a soft goods refurb before our trip to get rid of those hideous bedspreads We have stayed CR-GW previously and would not choose again because of the lack of a balcony and would now only consider the tower rooms. My big problem with CR is the lack of a padded chair to just sit and relax or read/watch TV. JENNYGT--I know you are having the same issue....LOL.

 

[tiger4me2]

I'm not sure it's a matter of being untruthful. It is very common for large construction projects like this to get off schedule and to be subject to various types of changes. Even a relatively minor delay of a week or two (or getting similarly ahead of schedule) would make a huge difference in the planning process for guests traveling during that time. You simply can't nail these things down to the narrow windows people need for planning vacations. Also, keeping staff apprised of what is happening when would be a huge endeavor, no doubt fraught with problems. I'd love to know what will be going on the first week in December when we're going, but I think it would be worse to change plans based on an announcement that didn't pan out than it is to be aware that things are uncertain. I suspect it's safer for Disney to leave things up in the air and deal with complaints as they come.

FWIW, I've stayed in plenty of hotels that were undergoing construction and I don't recall ever being notified in advance. One was a Ritz-Carlton--main pool was closed the entire time we were there. I don't think this policy is unique to Disney.

FYI I realize this but is still wrong in my book. My view only. I am just tired of hearing too many stories out of them.

When they did work on the BWI they called us and told us. I also recall reading on this board of many being emailed or called & being told ahead of time. MHO

 

[Masonmj84]

For our upcoming late July 2014, I am keeping Poly as an option--just in case construction is at a minimum. But for my planning, I am leaning toward the GF with CR as a back-up. GF has a great room layout for our family, basically all rooms have balconies, and I love the food options at the resort. Hoping they have a soft goods refurb before our trip to get rid of those hideous bedspreads We have stayed CR-GW previously and would not choose again because of the lack of a balcony and would now only consider the tower rooms.

I feel your pain.

We really want to stay at a Monorail resort as part of our trip next spring and if it wasn't for the potential construction issues, it would be an easy decision for the Poly.

Currently, we're booked for Poly but if there are construction walls around the Nanea Pool and inside the GCH, I just don't see how we can justify the cost without some incredible discounts.

The GF would probably be our second choice but I just can't get over the grandmotherly room decor and ugly bedspreads.

CR tower is already booked during our planned stay, so that leaves Garden Wing but, like you, we'd really like a balcony.

It's painful to think that we'll be shelling out the big bucks to stay on the Monorail only to be less than excited about some major aspect of the resort. I have to keep reminding myself that these are first world problems and the important thing is that we'll be together as a family at Disney.

 

[P'colaBeachBum]

Well said!!! I do think its ridiculous that they haven't informed their guests or CMs.. I adore Disney and The Poly but for this they were obviously looking out for their bottom line instead of their guests! I check in next weekend at CL and have yet to hear any info from The Poly or Disney that I haven't specifically asked for. In fact had I not been here on DIS I wouldn't have known about any of the construction until I checked in. I have been able to prepare my husband for the wall that I here will be up infront of the Hawaii LH beach but if I hadn't they would have had one ticked off guest! Especially considering we just spent $5100 for this vacation!

We will be staying at the Poly Oct. 29 & 30.On Sat. I received a letter from the manager about work being done. It was nice of Mr. Nobles to send it, but I'm worried about just how much will be going on at that time. I was looking forward to being there again...last time was 1973! I hope I don't regret booking. We usually stay at the YC for F&W but since they redid the rooms in brighter decor.... I wanted a change.

 

[fitzperry]

FYI I realize this but is still wrong in my book. My view only. I am just tired of hearing too many stories out of them.

When they did work on the BWI they called us and told us. I also recall reading on this board of many being emailed or called & being told ahead of time. MHO

How far in advance were you notified about the BWI construction? Maybe you shouldn't rule that out in this case--as far as I know, nothing has actually happened yet. They may start notifying people as the time approaches, but some people are fretting about what will be happening as far out as next summer, and no one can answer that question with the required degree of specificity at this point in time.

Edited to add: I just read the post above mine, which indicates they are making some effort to notify people (more than I got from the Ritz-Carlton). But that post also is consistent with my point that guests are not going to get the details they want, at least not many weeks or months in advance. Personally, I'm prepared to play it by ear and change my reservation or ask to be moved if necessary.

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

I feel your pain.

We really want to stay at a Monorail resort as part of our trip next spring and if it wasn't for the potential construction issues, it would be an easy decision for the Poly.

Currently, we're booked for Poly but if there are construction walls around the Nanea Pool and inside the GCH, I just don't see how we can justify the cost without some incredible discounts.

The GF would probably be our second choice but I just can't get over the grandmotherly room decor and ugly bedspreads.

CR tower is already booked during our planned stay, so that leaves Garden Wing but, like you, we'd really like a balcony.

It's painful to think that we'll be shelling out the big bucks to stay on the Monorail only to be less than excited about some major aspect of the resort. I have to keep reminding myself that these are first world problems and the important thing is that we'll be together as a family at Disney.

Yes--a good problem to have so-to-speak. It is always a dilemma when Poly is not the booked resort. Our last two trips we flip flopped all over the place ending up at YC(to try Epcot area) and it was nice but not for us and then CSR(for budget reasons). After the last trip at CSR, we decided never again outside the MK area as that is where we prefer. We couldn't wait to book Poly for our next WDW trip and now THIS stupid construction has to get things all complicated. UGH.....

We have always said GF would be our second choice behind Poly so looks like now we will be staying at our second choice for our last whole family trip for the forseeable(sp?) future given oldest DD is currently a sophomore in HS. We want to squeeze in a beach trip before she graduates so the next WDW trip would not be until after she graduates(sniff sniff).

 

[tiger4me2]

How far in advance were you notified about the BWI construction? Maybe you shouldn't rule that out in this case--as far as I know, nothing has actually happened yet. They may start notifying people as the time approaches, but some people are fretting about what will be happening as far out as next summer, and no one can answer that question with the required degree of specificity at this point in time.

Edited to add: I just read the post above mine, which indicates they are making some effort to notify people (more than I got from the Ritz-Carlton). But that post also is consistent with my point that guests are not going to get the details they want, at least not many weeks or months in advance. Personally, I'm prepared to play it by ear and change my reservation or ask to be moved if necessary.

I was notify by phone 45+ days in advance.(for the BWI) I am also staying club level so they should informed me when I talked to them yesterday & was told by them I would be okay. But it doesn't seem to be okay by reading these posts. I am only staying one night but I wanted a view of the theme park since I paid for this view. It is not a request but I paid for it. If they can't deliver then they need to inform the guests that the view they want will be under construction and taken out of the system. This is how I feel, they are booking these rooms knowing people might not have a good view of the theme park. This is what making me feel being "used" I read the post that you read but so far I have not be called or email. I leave Sept 5th since we are driving and taking in the sites since DH is going overseas for a year. Like you I am prepared to see what happens as long as if they moved us to a good location or give us the choice to cancel with full refund back. again MHO

Understand about the post about the construction months in advance. No one can guess what will happen but with two weeks + I should be informed of any major work MHO

 

[fitzperry]

I was notify by phone 45+ days in advance. I am also staying club level so they should informed me when I talked to them yesterday & was told by them I would be okay. But it doesn't seem to be okay by reading these posts. I am only staying one night but I wanted a view of the theme park since I paid for this view. It is not a request but I paid for it. If they can't deliver then they need to inform the guests that the view they want will be under construction and taken out of the system. This is how I feel, they are booking these rooms knowing people might not have a good view of the theme park. This is what making me feel being "used" I read the post that you read but so far I have not be called or email. I leave Sept 5th since we are driving and taking in the sites since DH is going overseas for a year. Like you I am prepared to see what happens as long as if they moved us to a good location or give us the choice to cancel with full refund back. again MHO

Well I completely agree that if they can't deliver the theme park view you booked, they should notify you and offer an alternative. Based on what I've read, the inventory of TPV rooms will be reduced but not eliminated. And maybe since you're only staying one night, you are more likely to get one of them. I guess I'd be inclined to take them at their word that you'll "be ok," but I'd raise holy heck if, after that assurance, I got there and there were no TPV rooms.

 

[tiger4me2]

Not only will work be out in the water in the designated areas but here is a map from the permits filed showing the affected area on land. You can see why Disney informed travel agents that longhouses, Hawaii, Tokelau, Tahiti and Rapa Nui would be affected.

If they are informing the travel agents why not the people who book by phone as well? I was told when I book the Hawaii Theme Park View would not be affected.

 

[tiger4me2]

Well I completely agree that if they can't deliver the theme park view you booked, they should notify you and offer an alternative. Based on what I've read, the inventory of TPV rooms will be reduced but not eliminated. And maybe since you're only staying one night, you are more likely to get one of them. I guess I'd be inclined to take them at their word that you'll "be ok," but I'd raise holy heck if, after that assurance, I got there and there were no TPV rooms.

I agree and I will take my chances unless DH decides not to take this chance. Don't worry if we keep it and don't get the view (not partial) I will let them know.