Wizarding World - Diagon Alley Discussion (Opens 2014)

[ThemeParks4Life]

I will be wondering the streets of Universal tomorrow...

Good luck with the tourists (both fake and real)

[Disneyhead]

This is what I've been hearing as well. We could see "limited" softs for months to work every single kink out with a Grand Opening on the 5th Anniversary of Phase 1. Look for this expansions opening to be even more drawn out to deliver a perfect experience for the summer rush.

I am placing my money on them having the Grand Opening on the 5th Anniversary. With softs actually starting before Spring Break.

[SweeneysGalMegz]

I am placing my money on them having the Grand Opening on the 5th Anniversary. With softs actually starting before Spring Break.

I would lean that way too, more because it's the summer and I'd imagine you could get even greater crowds then than any other time (excluding Christmas time, but that would be a nightmare).

[John321]

On a side note- This Wednesday marks the 1 year anniversary of the Jaws Ride closing. Crazy the difference in 1 year.

[hatetofly]

Update in a bit

[hatetofly]

From today,

[bobwadd]

Site-work appears to be moving at an accelerated pace now! Thanks HtF

[hatetofly]

Kings Cross is using a construction technique more commonly found in skyscraper construction. They are floating reinforced concrete on a system called "SKYDECK" which is (ironically) a product of a British Company. After finished and cured, the skydeck system is removed and the concrete floats only supported by distant end points.

Thanks to a special member for the insight and explanation on this unique process.

[Felipe]

Thanks for more great pics HTF! Wondering about that boxy structure to the left of the building... Why was that finished so early on, compared to the rest...

[Teebin]

^ And why... is that huge white oil rig type pipe bolted in there... hmmmmmm. Engine service building?

[Disneyhead]

^ And why... is that huge white oil rig type pipe bolted in there... hmmmmmm. Engine service building?

Aren't they going with a Doppelmayr Funicular system? If that is the case I would phrase it, "Motor Building".

[bobwadd]

Kings Cross is using a construction technique more commonly found in skyscraper construction. They are floating reinforced concrete on a system called "SKYDECK" which is (ironically) a product of a British Company. After finished and cured, the skydeck system is removed and the concrete floats only supported by distant end points.

Thanks to a special member for the insight and explanation on this unique process.

Floating reinforced decking systems (aka - table system) are not new by any means. The PERI SKYDECK system is extremely lightweight and strong compared to conventional wood and steel systems. The SKYDECK system uses mostly aluminum components which due to light weight make setting and striking the form-work easier and faster. Also, carrying beams can be cast in one continuous pour with the slab. Once again saving time.

As HtF said this is only usually used in large projects due to the form-work cost over a conventional system. Although it is becoming more popular every day.

[jmercer25]

I know this has been discussed a thousand times, but I haven't found the answer yet...do we know the coaster manufacturer yet? The track looks really similar to Premier. I was just holding out for Intamin because they've done EMVs before and it seems a Spidey/Mummy-type hybrid would suit them well.

[hatetofly]

I've been saying Intamin for many many moons with a host of others giving a strong premier argument. So I've just been waiting for Universal to confirm Intamin until then.

[Teebin]

Floating reinforced decking systems (aka - table system) are not new by any means. The PERI SKYDECK system is extremely lightweight and strong compared to conventional wood and steel systems. The SKYDECK system uses mostly aluminum components which due to light weight make setting and striking the form-work easier and faster. Also, carrying beams can be cast in one continuous pour with the slab. Once again saving time.

As HtF said this is only usually used in large projects due to the form-work cost over a conventional system. Although it is becoming more popular every day.

Tah Dah!

It amazes me how changed the building techniques are compared to Phase One. It is almost as if "they mean business" on every front. I am so happy this has happened for Universal Orlando Resort.