Disney's Fantasyland to give central Florida job boost

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Central Florida's largest employer is about to give the local job market a very big boost.

On Wednesday, Walt Disney officials revealed more about the new Fantasyland under construction right now.

Fantasyland will unveil a new world of attractions based on classic tales like "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Little Mermaid."

The massive expansion serves as Disney's response to heavily hyped new attractions at central Florida's other theme parks, including SeaWorld's Antarctica and Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

"We know we're giving families a new reason to come and visit central Florida, which is a direct economic impact to this community," said Meg Crofton, president of Walt Disney Parks.

Fantasyland means there will be new rides, new restaurants and new jobs. The park has already 800 new performers, restaurant workers and technical staff, as well as construction contracts.

Construction continues through 2014 and adds another 700 jobs just to build Fantasyland.

"It's entertainment and it's fun, but you have to look at it in the economic terms as well," said Mayor Buddy Dyer.

Kids from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida got the first look at Fantasyland last weekend. The attraction officially opens Dec. 6 at the Magic Kingdom.

WFTV