Universal Orlando Enhances Epic Universe with New Sound Wall

Universal Orlando, August 28, 2025

News Summary

Universal Orlando is making significant upgrades to its Epic Universe, including the construction of a new 17-foot sound wall designed to reduce noise and improve visitor experience. This project, valued at approximately $5 million, spans over 0.53 miles and features robust engineering to withstand high winds. Along with this, Universal has initiated demolition of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit coaster and is planning future expansions at the park. These enhancements aim to elevate the attractions and overall guest satisfaction at Universal Orlando.

Universal Orlando Expands Epic Universe with New Sound Wall and Commences Demolition of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit

Construction has resumed at Epic Universe, positioned behind the Stardust Racers roller coaster, as crews press forward with a wave of new development activity. The project details emerging from recent permits point to a large-scale noise-mitigation effort designed to shield nearby views and reduce sound leakage from the expanding park.

The centerpiece of the current work is a 17-foot-tall sound wall that will extend roughly 0.53 miles along the fringe of the park. Official documentation indicates the wall is engineered to withstand winds up to 139 mph, a specification intended to maintain barrier integrity under extreme weather. The structure’s construction is valued at approximately $5 million, with steel columns placed every 20 feet and infill panels added between them. The design mirrors a similar barrier already standing behind Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and serves to obstruct external views while containing noise within the site.

Permits for the sound wall have been filed by Shingle Creek Transit & Utility Community Development District, and the application documents list an expiration date of February 2026. The project area has been cleared for construction, extending from Sand Lake Rd to the boundary near the water treatment plant’s property. In addition, a temporary bypass road has been put in place to accommodate Team Member shuttles around the work zone during the wall’s erection. Footings for the wall are actively being installed, with heavy machinery spotted on-site as crews proceed.

Nearby planning efforts have also shown up in newly submitted permits for a 53.76-acre parcel referred to as the ‘West Parcel Mass Grading’. Details on the intended end use are not disclosed in the filings, but permit language indicates planning for the construction of new works and the development of a stormwater management system. Industry observers have floated possibilities including the addition of new hotels, entertainment districts, or expanded park venues within the parcel’s future plans.

Beyond the wall, Universal has expanded its Express service to two additional attractions: Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry and Donkey Kong Mine-Cart Madness. The expansion of Express access marks a shift in guest flow management, potentially shortening wait times for popular experiences while the broader Epic Universe project progresses toward its next milestones.

The entertainment complex also saw the formal closure of the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster, which ceased operation on August 17, 2025, after 16 years in service. Demolition of the coaster began swiftly, with sizable sections of track removed within days of closure. On the attraction’s final operational day, guests encountered characters themed to the ride, and memorabilia was distributed to riders as part of a ceremonial farewell. The permitting environment suggests a new roller coaster may replace Rockit on a footprint similar to the existing ride, based on the indications found in associated filings.

In parallel with the urban development around Epic Universe, the park’s water-themed venue, Volcano Bay, is slated for a major seasonal refurbishment spanning October 26, 2026 to March 24, 2027. During this window, the TapuTapu wearable system will be retired as part of broader enhancements. Refurbishments are also anticipated for attractions across Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, with a rumored major overhaul of the Jurassic Park River Adventure noted by observers. Upgrades are described as targeted at elevating guest experiences and refreshing the lineup of the resort’s flagship experiences.

Major refurbishments are expected at Volcano Bay’s most popular attractions, aimed at improving guest flow and engagement. While precise timelines for some upgrades remain under review, the overall trajectory points toward a broad modernization effort across the resort complex. The project updates are being shared through a variety of channels, including video stories that offer visuals and context for ongoing changes.

Overall, the current phase of development at Epic Universe centers on large-scale physical barriers, expansion of guest services, and the eventual replacement of one iconic ride, all while planning for a wider growth footprint across adjacent parcels and refurbishments. The evolving program underscores the continued momentum behind the expansion and modernization of the park ecosystem, with multiple lines of work proceeding in parallel to support a broader guest experience strategy.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the size and purpose of the new sound wall?

The wall stands 17 feet tall and runs about 0.53 miles to block outside views and contain noise from Epic Universe construction, with a design that resists winds up to 139 mph.

When are permits for the sound wall set to expire?

Permits are slated to expire in February 2026, with construction already underway on footings and related infrastructure.

What happened to the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster?

The Rockit coaster closed on August 17, 2025, after 16 years of operation, and demolition began in short order, with portions of the track removed in the days that followed.

What is planned for the West Parcel Mass Grading?

The 53.76-acre parcel is being prepared for future development, with permits indicating plans for new works and a stormwater management system; specific end uses have not been disclosed.

When will Volcano Bay be refurbished, and what is changing?

A major refurbishment is scheduled from October 26, 2026, to March 24, 2027, during which time the TapuTapu system will be retired, along with other attraction enhancements across the park.

Are there other refurbishments planned at Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios Florida?

Yes, refurbishments are anticipated at both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida, including a rumored major overhaul of the Jurassic Park River Adventure and updates to popular Volcano Bay attractions to improve guest experiences.

Key features snapshot

Key features of Epic Universe expansion

Sound wall height (ft) 17 ft

Wall length (ft) 0.53 miles (≈2810 ft)

Construction value (millions) $5.0

West Parcel Mass Grading (acres) 53.76 acres

Rockit demolition progress In progress

Volcano Bay refurbishment window (days) ≈160 days (2026-2027)

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Additional Resources

• Orlando Park Stop
• Wikipedia: Universal Orlando Resort
• New York Times
• Google Search: Universal Orlando Epic Universe
• Theme Park Tribune
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando
• Attractions Magazine
• Google News: Universal Orlando Epic Universe news