Universal’s Epic Universe Expansion Begins Just Weeks After Grand Opening

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Despite Universal’s Epic Universe having only recently unveiled its entrance, they are already gearing up for their initial expansion, as indicated by recent permit filings in Orange County. The upcoming project, currently known as Project 915, promises something significant.

Universal Isn’t Slowing Down

As Epic Universe nears completion with details like landscaping and pathway improvements, Universal has secretly been preparing for growth by submitting numerous construction permits. Some of these applications are quite unspecific, such as those labeled “professional services,” but two have caught our attention: permits related to a brand-new venture called “915.

And this isn’t a small upgrade.

One permit details a 40,178-square-foot construction area involving groundwork for foundations, moving and installing utilities, as well as leveling the entire site. Another permit associated with the project mentions vertical construction, indicating that steel structures are about to be erected in one of the park’s currently unused sections.

In December 2025, both permits will have expired, providing Universal with a definite timeframe to kick off and potentially finish the upcoming phase of Epic Universe.

A Strategic Location With Expansion in Mind

If you’re curious about the progress of Project 915, it appears to be heading towards an expansion area situated between Super Nintendo World and Celestial Park, directly opposite the Atlantic restaurant. This location was marked as a future construction site for some time, and it looks like that future is coming more quickly than anticipated.

Images captured by aerial photographer Bio Reconstruct reveal a distinctly demarcated backstage area that has been emptied, enclosed by temporary barricades and a service entrance. Remarkably, this layout almost perfectly matches the space specified in the permit, offering us our initial significant hint about where the main events might unfold.

It’s intriguing to note that initially, there were whispers about this area serving as a location for a parade construction site when Epic Universe was first conceptualized. However, newly uncovered documents hint that the infrastructure for parades will actually be positioned at the back of the park, even behind Dark Universe. This seemingly frees up this space for some other purpose entirely.

What Could the Project 915 Epic Universe Expansion Be?

As of now, Universal has yet to disclose specifics about Project 915’s final form. However, speculation suggests it could be a versatile soundstage or theater, potentially suitable for events, seasonal shows, or temporary displays. One permit indicates the area is approximately 30,337 square feet, a size that aligns with several existing soundstages at Universal Studios Florida. This implies around 10,000 square feet remain, which might be used for walkways, backstage access, or support facilities.

Should these rumors be accurate, this expansion would significantly boost Celestial Park’s ability to provide entertainment, allowing Universal Studios to comfortably accommodate large events, concerts, and nighttime shows, all while keeping daily ride operations uninterrupted.

Although a soundstage may seem small in description, it can also be used as a flexible space for future, more complex endeavors. Companies like Universal often experiment with novel technologies and ideas within confined structures before expanding them on a broader level. This could include projection mapping, drone coordination, and even blended dark ride/theater concepts.

Since the park’s opening, there have been numerous speculations about the expansion plans for Epic Universe. Some think that we might eventually see attractions like The Legend of Zelda or Luigi’s Mansion. Other whispers hint at a future Wicked Oz land. However, it’s important to note that these ideas are all speculation and there has been no official confirmation. Furthermore, considering the size of Epic Universe, it appears that accommodating another themed IP land on the grand scale usually associated with such expansions might be challenging.

Visible Signs of Progress

To date, construction hasn’t really gotten underway yet, but it could pick up pace rapidly. The only noticeable alteration to the construction site over the past few weeks has been the relocation of temporary office structures that used to be stationed at the rear corner of the area. With this area now vacant, there’s not much left to hinder the commencement of groundwork imminently.

When you notice construction barriers being set up or cranes appearing at the location, it means Universal is swiftly transforming Epic Universe into a vibrant, ever-changing park that won’t delay for years before introducing its next exciting update.

Final Thoughts

After just wrapping up its spectacular debut, Epic Universe is already gearing up for more developments according to Universal’s long-term plan. With Project 915 potentially being the first of several upcoming expansions at the Orlando resort within the next ten years, it signals a strong intent from Universal: they are actively constructing their future today.

With further revelations about the permit specifics and the commencement of the vertical building phase, That Park Place promises to keep you updated every step of the journey. Regardless of what Project 915 eventually becomes, it marks the beginning of Epic Universe’s second act—and we can’t wait to see it unfold.

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2025-06-16 19:56