Construction on the new TRON coaster in Tomorrowland will temporarily close two attractions at the Magic Kingdom.
The Walt Disney World Railroad will close in December 2018, with a train remaining at the Main Street Station for unique photos while work on TRON progresses. The Tomorrowland Speedway will close “for a portion of 2019” as the track is adjusted before reopening in Summer 2019.
The Disney Parks Blog states that the Speedway will be “the same attraction our guests know and love” when it reopens. That’s slightly surprising as reports suggested the Speedway would be rethemed in order to match its new neighbor, the TRON coaster. Gasoline-powered vehicles don’t really fit into the Tomorrowland theme, especially with something futuristic looking sitting nearby. This closure seems like a great time to update the Speedway, but it’s possible they’re waiting to announce that plan in the future – assuming the plans haven’t changed.
The TRON coaster, which has new art near Storybook Circus, is expected to open in time for the Magic Kingdom’s 50th anniversary in 2021.