Reedy Creek Improvement Act

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Mickey ears on sign

Reedy Creek Improvement Act was a landmark piece of legislation passed by the Florida Legislature in 1967. This act was instrumental in the establishment and development of the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida. It essentially created the Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID), a special taxing district that allowed The Walt Disney Company to have almost complete autonomy over the land within the district. The act granted Disney the ability to issue bonds, levy taxes, and even possess certain governmental powers such as the ability to create and enforce its own building codes and regulations.

Background

In the mid-1960s, Walt Disney envisioned creating a new type of entertainment venue in Florida, far surpassing the scope of Disneyland in California. To realize this vision, Disney needed more than just land; it required the ability to control every aspect of the development and operation of this new project, which would come to be known as Walt Disney World. Disney lobbied the Florida Legislature for the creation of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, arguing that such a district would allow for unprecedented innovation in building and environmental management.

Legislation

The Reedy Creek Improvement Act was signed into law by Florida Governor Claude Kirk on May 12, 1967. The act covered approximately 25,000 acres of land in Orange County and Osceola County, Florida. It allowed for the creation of two cities within the district: Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, which would be governed by the landowners (essentially Disney). This unique arrangement gave Disney the power to control zoning, land use, and other regulatory aspects typically managed by county and state governments.

Powers and Responsibilities

Under the Reedy Creek Improvement Act, the RCID was granted a wide range of powers, including but not limited to:

• Issuing bonds for public financing
• Imposing taxes
• Creating building codes
• Managing utilities and services such as water, waste, and electricity
• Controlling land use and development

These powers enabled Disney to build the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom, along with numerous hotels, water parks, and other entertainment venues.

Controversies and Criticisms

The Reedy Creek Improvement Act has faced criticism and controversy over the years. Critics argue that it gives Disney too much power, essentially allowing a corporation to act as a government. Concerns have been raised about the lack of public oversight and the potential for Disney to prioritize its interests over those of the public or the environment.

Recent Developments

Over the years, there have been several legislative attempts to amend or repeal the Reedy Creek Improvement Act, reflecting ongoing debates about the balance between corporate autonomy and public oversight. Despite these challenges, the RCID remains a critical component of the operation and expansion of the Walt Disney World Resort.

See Also

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Special district (United States)
• Municipal government

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