Universal Orlando Resort plans to open its theme parks to
the public on June 5.
Universal Orlando CEO John Sprouls and executive vice
president of resort operations Rich Costales presented Universal’s reopening plans
to Orange County’s Economic Recovery Task Force on Thursday. The task force
approved the plans but they have not yet been endorsed by Orange County Mayor
Jerry Demings, which is necessary to move forward with the plans.
Demings said he needed time to review the plan and is expected
to speak about it with the governor, likely Friday.
Sprouls said Universal Orlando’s reopening would be gradual
and capacity-managed, with social distancing measures for every attraction,
venue, shop and restaurant.
Universal Orlando plans to open the park to employees only
on June 1 and 2 to vet its new procedures. On June 3 and 4, Sprouls said the
parks would be open to some invited guests, like annual passholders, to further
test procedures. Then, the parks would open to the public on June 5.
In addition to spacing standards throughout the parks, the
plan call for increased guest screening and sanitation. Temperature checks will
be required as will face coverings (disposable coverings will be provided to
guests who don’t bring their own).
Frequent reminders about following guest safety procedures
will be on signage and in audio messages throughout the parks.
Universal Orlando has three parks: Universal Studios,
Islands of Adventure and the Volcano Bay water park.