Walt Disney World’ s Magic Kingdom theme park is famous for its attractions. However, few visitors are aware of the existence beneath it of a complex system of underground tunnels, known as Utilidors, which plays an essential role in its operation. Let’s see why:
Origin and purpose of the Utilidors
During the construction of Disneyland in California, Walt Disney noticed that employees had to go through various themed areas to get to their workplaces. This transit broke the public’s illusion of being in the world he wanted to create. So, after this experience, and to avoid this inconvenience, Disney insisted on the construction of an underground tunnel system at Walt Disney World in Florida, USA. Specifically, instead of digging into the swampy terrain of its location, the tunnels were built at ground level and the park was elevated above them.
Functions of the Utilidors
The functions that the underground corridors of the Walt Disney World theme park in Florida fulfil in its operation, are the following:
-Movement of staff and supplies: workers move without being seen by visitors and therefore without interfering with their experience, which is therefore more authentic. On the other hand, they facilitate the transport of supplies and goods to shops and restaurants.
– Waste management: The tunnels house a waste management system known as AVAC (Automated Vacuum Assisted Collection). Waste travels through a system of vacuum pipes, efficiently and discreetly, to a central collection and treatment facility.
– Emergency and security services: at the same time, the corridors provide security and emergency personnel with a means of quick, quiet and uninterrupted access for visitors to any point in the theme park.
-Employee rest and dining areas: in the tunnels there are dedicated spaces where employees can rest, eat or change clothes without leaving the park.
Design and structure
The layout of the Utilidors consists of a network of underground streets, each with a specific purpose and clear signage to avoid confusion. Therefore, due to the length and complexity of the tunnels, maps and signage are located at numerous points throughout the system to assist employees in navigating the tunnels.
Operational efficiency and safeguarding the visitor experience
The existence of the Utilidors has a direct and positive impact on the Magic Kingdom theme park visitor experience. It represents an example of attention to detail and meticulous planning to ensure that every visitor has a seamless magical experience, for the illusion to persist and the operability to reach the highest level of efficiency.
By Manuel Ginés, Senior Architect in Amusement Logic’s Architectural Dept.
