Quick Read
- Construction is advancing on a 150,000-square-foot expansion in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe.
- Work has begun on a permanent fireworks launchpad, hinting at potential new nighttime shows for the theme park.
- Universal’s proposed transit system for Orlando is expanding its scope with a new connection to the Sunshine Corridor.
- A multi-purpose event space and new dining concepts are under development within Celestial Park, though some dining plans face delays.
- The Fyre Drill boat ride is scheduled for a brief refurbishment from February 1st to February 8th, 2026, to address water pressure issues.
ORLANDO (Azat TV) – Construction at Epic Universe, Orlando’s newest theme park, is accelerating significantly, with major projects underway that signal its ambitious future. Key developments include the commencement of prep work for a substantial new attraction within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the construction of what appears to be a permanent fireworks launchpad, and an expanded proposal for the resort’s comprehensive transit system, according to recent permits and aerial observations.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Sees Major Expansion
The most substantial project currently inside Epic Universe is a confirmed expansion for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Permits indicate that preparatory work has begun for a massive 150,000-square-foot indoor experience, referred to as Project 987 and designated Building 1660. This new structure is situated on the back-right of the Paris-themed land, directly behind the facade for the French Ministry of Magic, which featured prominently in the second Fantastic Beasts film.
Survey markers and colored paint have appeared across the large empty plot, signaling the imminent start of foundation work. The foundation permit, filed in December 2025, is set to expire by June 30, 2026, suggesting that construction will ramp up in the coming months. While the exact nature of the attraction remains under wraps, speculation, fueled by allusions to the French Ministry throughout the land, suggests a potential broomstick-flying experience. Baker Barrios Architects, a local firm known for major Orlando projects, is listed as the contractor for the foundation work.
New Nighttime Spectacles and Event Space
Epic Universe is also laying the groundwork for enhanced entertainment and guest amenities. Work has finally started on what could be a permanent launchpad for fireworks shows. Located on a peninsula in a drainage pond behind the Universal Helios Grand Hotel, this site, known as Project 247, has seen concrete poured and trenches dug, possibly for cabling to a future control booth. A safety fence has already been installed around the pond to secure the launch site.
The development coincides with a recent trademark application for ‘Universal Celestial Goodnight,’ a name and logo filed for ‘entertainment services in the nature of an amusement park show.’ This suggests a potential update or rebranding of the park’s current nighttime show, ‘The Cosmos Fountain,’ which primarily uses coordinated water features. It remains unclear whether the new launchpads will facilitate nightly fireworks or if they are intended for special events and holidays, as has been the case previously.
Elsewhere in Celestial Park, Project 915 is taking shape as a 30,000-square-foot multi-purpose building across from the Atlantic seafood restaurant. Land preparation is underway for this two-story structure, which is expected to house event space on its first floor and Team Member areas, including a kitchen and computer rooms, on the upper level. Preliminary permits for this project expire by the end of 2026, indicating major construction is anticipated this year.
Enhanced Connectivity and Infrastructure
Universal Orlando Resort’s proposed transit system, designed to connect its north and south campuses, has seen an important update. The proposal now includes an additional stop labeled ‘Sunshine Corridor Future Connection.’ This new stop aims to link the potential future SunRail station near the Orange County Convention Center directly to Universal Orlando. Universal has offered to donate 13 acres of land and contribute to the construction costs of this crucial train stop, which would connect the Orlando International Airport to the Convention Center.
Universal’s special district, the Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District, is actively seeking a contractor to build and maintain this up to five-mile transportation network for 25 years. While the Sunshine Corridor rail line may not be completed until the next decade, this expanded proposal underscores Universal’s commitment to integrated, large-scale infrastructure development.
Further west of Epic Universe, a project known as ‘West Parcel Mass Grading’ has been approved, covering approximately 35 acres. This grading work, with a permit expiring in December 2030, is intended to support future commercial development on an 87.2-acre parcel along Universal Boulevard, although specific plans for this large area have not yet been announced.
Park Operations and Future Dining Updates
In recent operational news, the Stardust Racers coaster experienced two ‘valleying’ incidents earlier this month, where trains stalled due to strong wind gusts. Fortunately, no guests were on board, and the ride reopened swiftly after cranes were used to remove the trains. This marks the second such incident since the park’s preview phase in March 2025.
Meanwhile, the Fyre Drill boat ride in the How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk land is scheduled for its first official refurbishment, closing from February 1st to February 8th, 2026, to address complaints regarding low water pressure on its cannons. The official soundtrack for the Isle of Berk has been released on vinyl, with the Celestial Park soundtrack expected to follow on streaming services in the coming months.
However, plans for Project 914, a dual Italian and Mexican dining location in Celestial Park, appear to be delayed. Signs advertising a 2026 opening have been removed, and interior build-out permits remain incomplete, suggesting that the project may not open as originally announced this year.
These ongoing developments at Epic Universe and the broader Universal Orlando Resort highlight a strategic push to enhance guest experience, expand capacity, and improve regional connectivity. The significant investment in new attractions, infrastructure, and entertainment options positions Epic Universe as a dynamic and evolving destination, ensuring its long-term appeal in the competitive Orlando theme park market.