Universal pauses construction on new Epic Universe theme park

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The company that owns Universal Orlando announced Thursday work on the resort’s new theme park “Epic Universe” will remain paused indefinitely.

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In a conference call with investors, NBC Universal CEO Jeff Shell said the company would be pausing development of the new park until "our future becomes more certain."

The park, which is being built on 750 acres near Sandlake and Kirkman roads, was scheduled to open sometime in 2023.

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Comcast also said revenue from theme parks decreased 94% because of COVID-19 closures.

“While attendance in both locations is much lower than our typical summer levels, we are still doing better financially than if we were closed,” Shell said.

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Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Japan reopened in June after temporarily closing due to COVID-19.

Universal Studios Hollywood remains closed.

Cox Media Group