Disney Imagineering Converts Former Galactic Starcruiser Site to New Offices

The company files second construction permit as it expands its Central Florida footprint.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:33pm

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Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a second Notice of Commencement for the former Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser building at Walt Disney World, indicating the project to convert the space into new offices has entered a new phase of construction. The former Galactic Starcruiser attraction closed in September 2023 after just over a year of operation, with Disney acknowledging the concept 'didn't work commercially' despite praise for its immersive storytelling.

Why it matters

The expansion of Disney Imagineering's Central Florida offices suggests the company is doubling down on its creative and development efforts for Walt Disney World, with several major projects underway or in the works across the resort's theme parks. The conversion of the former Galactic Starcruiser building also represents Disney's efforts to repurpose underperforming attractions and assets.

The details

The new permit lists Balfour Beatty Construction as the contractor, with a scope of general construction. Balfour Beatty was also named in the first Notice of Commencement filed for this project in August 2025. The filing of a second major NoC suggests the project has progressed into a new phase of construction work. The additional office space in Central Florida will give Imagineering more capacity to support its heavy workload of projects, including expansions at Disney's Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.

  • The former Galactic Starcruiser building closed in September 2023 after just over a year of operation.
  • Disney filed the first Notice of Commencement for this project in August 2025.
  • Disney has now filed a second Notice of Commencement, indicating the project has entered a new phase of construction.

The players

Walt Disney Imagineering

The creative development and engineering arm of The Walt Disney Company, responsible for the design and construction of Disney's theme parks, resorts, attractions, and other entertainment venues.

Balfour Beatty Construction

A global construction company that has been named as the contractor for the conversion of the former Galactic Starcruiser building into new offices for Walt Disney Imagineering.

Josh D'Amaro

The former Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, who acknowledged that the Galactic Starcruiser concept 'didn't work commercially' despite praise for its immersive storytelling.

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What they’re saying

“The concept 'didn't work commercially,' despite receiving praise for its immersive storytelling approach.”

— Josh D'Amaro, Former Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

What’s next

Disney has not announced an opening date or further details about the Walt Disney Imagineering office conversion project.

The takeaway

Disney's decision to convert the former Galactic Starcruiser building into new offices for its Imagineering team reflects the company's efforts to repurpose underperforming assets and expand its creative development capabilities in Central Florida to support its ambitious plans for Walt Disney World's theme parks and resorts.