PI Update: They Promised Us Details!

When oh when are they finally going to tell us something about Downtown Disney and more specifically about Pleasure Island?

Last August the bi-annual D23 Expo of Disney fans was held.  Because Disney had previously announced the suspension of the Hyperion Wharf project for Pleasure Island, there was great anticipation that something would get announced at D23.  Nothing was announced.  The outcry was so loud from Disney World fans that Tom Staggs, President of Disney Parks and Resorts was forced to say something later that day. He posted this on the Disney Parks Blog:

Thanks to all of you for your responses. Your passion, energy and affection for our parks and resorts is the reason we do what we do so I appreciate your feedback. I know many of you were hoping for announcements regarding new projects from Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, especially at Walt Disney World Resort, so I wanted to take a moment to address those comments.
The projects we’ve already announced represent the largest period of growth ever in Disney Parks’ history. We’re working hard to create new and exciting experiences for our guests around the world and while the timing isn’t always right to announce another big project, we like to use opportunities like the D23 Expo to update fans like you on the great progress we’re making. We have several incredible projects currently in the works and look forward to sharing more information with all of you in the weeks and months ahead, including new details regarding Downtown Disney in Florida.

That was last August.  We're now 11 months since that post and are rapidly approaching 4 years since the PI clubs were closed.  Still nothing.  Why?  Apparently there are both small and large plans for Downtown Disney and the larger plans are being described by those in the know as "incredible".  The Blog has previously reported rumors of a huge expansion of DTD that could triple its size.  We've reported about a trolley system that would run the entire length of the development, beginning at Old Key West, circling around DTD and ending at Saratoga Springs. We've reported on multiple fountains in the lake, a dedicated exit ramp westbound off I-4 and of both parking garages and valet parking.  We've reported on various Schussler Creative restaurant concepts that may be coming.  But these all remain rumors and Disney has announced nothing. How PI fits-in all this remains to be seen. But we do know where PI fits-in......right in the middle!               (SPI Blog roving reporter Thommy contributed to this article.)