Universal Studios has announced the location of its next theme park: Frisco, Texas.
On Wednesday, Universal Parks and Resorts announced plans for a family-friendly theme park on 97 acres outside the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Like the Universal Studios theme parks in Orlando, Florida and Hollywood, California, the company’s newest park will pay homage to Universal’s film and entertainment brand. But the smaller sized theme park will be especially for families with young children.
The announcement was instantly praised by amusement park lovers, but some were surprised by the theme park’s exclusive—and somewhat random—location in Frisco, Texas.
“As a North Texas resident I am excited about this!!!” Someone tweeted.
“As someone who lives so close to here, I’m super excited!” Another user tweeted.
“AT MY PLACE?!” said a shocked user.
Others expressed their excitement at visiting the family-friendly theme park without having to travel halfway across the country.
“I’ve always been intrigued by smaller themed experiences spanning areas outside of California and FL, so I’m excited about it!” Written by a user.
“Very interested in this!!! Growing up, I only went to theme parks occasionally, but spent every year in the Wisconsin Dells because it was only a few hours away,” said another. “It’s a win-win to have projects like this one in locations that serve families and guests beyond Orlando and Southern California!”
While the location of the theme park may confuse many, Universal Parks and Resorts explained that their decision to build its newest park in North Texas was due to the city’s “increasing popularity” in the southwestern region of the country.
“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with the city of Frisco and Mayor Cheney as we work to bring to life this innovative, new concept designed specifically for the younger generation of Universal fans,” said Page Thompson, President of New Ventures. Universal Parks and Resorts, in a statement. “Given its growing popularity in this part of the country, we think North Texas is the perfect place for families to start this unique park.”
“Frisco is considered one of the fastest growing cities in the United States and a great place to plant professional roots and start a family,” said Jeff Cheney, the city’s mayor. “This new Universal concept will benefit our residents, businesses and visitors by continuing to improve our tax base, expand employment opportunities and bring even more fun to Frisco.”
Despite the excitement, as Texas lawmakers continue to pass laws eliminating abortion protection, some people have pointed out how Texas is at the center of an ongoing border crisis.
In response to the announcement, one person asked, “How about if we choose a state that doesn’t try to usurp people’s rights?” he tweeted. “Disney better stay away. Sorry to my Texan friends for saying this :(“
As thousands of immigrants from Central and South America seek asylum in the US each month, President Joe Biden made his first visit to the US-Mexico border this week. Meanwhile, statewide abortion rights in Texas continue to be threatened by conservative lawmakers following the overthrow of Roe v Wade.