Epic Universe Expansion Begins as Project 915 Permits Reveal New Construction Plans

Universal’s Epic Universe may have just opened its gates, but that’s not stopping the company from getting to work on its first major expansion. Just weeks after its grand debut, new permits filed with Orange County confirm the arrival of something big that right now is simply called Project 915.

Universal Isn’t Slowing Down

While Epic Universe has been quietly wrapping up final touches like landscaping, pathway refinements, and signage, behind the scenes, Universal has also been busy filing a wave of new construction permits that signal imminent expansion. Among the most vague filings are entries simply marked as “professional services,” but two in particular stand out: permits for something entirely new, under the project name “915.”

And this isn’t a small upgrade.

The permit for the first Universal Epic Universe Expansion titled Project 915 – City or Orlando

One of the permits describes a 40,178-square-foot construction site, including foundational groundwork, utility relocation, new utility installations, and full site grading. Another permit tied to the project lists vertical construction, a clear signal that steel will soon start rising in one of the park’s undeveloped zones.

Both permits are set to expire in December 2025, which gives Universal a firm window to begin and possibly complete this next phase of Epic Universe.

A Strategic Location With Expansion in Mind

If you’re wondering where Project 915 is going, the most likely answer is an expansion pad nestled between Super Nintendo World and Celestial Park, right across the path from the Atlantic full-service restaurant. That location has long been designated as a future development site, and now it seems that future is arriving sooner than expected.

An expansion pad at Universal’s Epic Universe – Bio Reconstruct

Photos from aerial documentarian Bio Reconstruct show a clearly defined backstage lot now cleared and sectioned off by temporary construction walls and a service gate. This aligns almost perfectly with the square footage described in the permit, giving us our first real clue as to where the action will take place.

Interestingly, this space was originally rumored to be the site of a parade building back when plans for Epic Universe were first drawn up. But recent documents suggest that parade support structures will instead be located at the rear of the park, including behind Dark Universe, leaving this pad open for something else entirely.

What Could the Project 915 Epic Universe Expansion Be?

At this point, Universal has not released official details about what Project 915 will become. But the leading theories point toward a multi-purpose soundstage or theater, possibly designed for events, seasonal shows, or even temporary exhibits. The footprint listed on one of the two permits is 30,337 square feet, which would be consistent with several of the soundstages already used at Universal Studios Florida. That leaves roughly 10,000 square feet of additional area for pathways, backstage access, or support facilities.

If those rumors hold true, this expansion would greatly enhance the entertainment capacity of Celestial Park, giving Universal the flexibility to host major events, concerts, and nighttime spectaculars without interfering with day-to-day ride operations.

Universal Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury and Mario/Donkey Kong Creator Shigeru Miyamoto in Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: NBC Universal

While a soundstage might sound modest on paper, it could also serve as a modular space for more ambitious projects down the line. Universal has been known to test new technologies and concepts within enclosed showbuildings before rolling them out on a larger scale. Think projection mapping, drone choreography, and even hybrid dark ride/theater concepts.

There have been many rumors regarding Epic Universe expansion plans since before the park opened. Many believe we’re likely to see Legend of Zelda or Luigi’s Mansion at some point, with other rumors pointing to the addition of a Wicked Oz land at some point. None of these plans are confirmed, however, and it seems as though this particular area would be too small to house an additional themed IP land on the scale one would come to expect from Epic Universe. 

Visible Signs of Progress

So far, construction has not yet begun in earnest—but that may change quickly. The only visible change to the expansion pad over the last few weeks has been the removal of portable office units, which previously occupied the back corner of the lot. With that space now cleared, there’s little standing in the way of foundational work starting soon.

Super Mario World with Bowser’s Castle at Universal’s Epic Universe theme park – Photo Credit: Marvin Montanaro

Once we see construction fencing go up or cranes arrive on-site, it will be confirmation that Universal is wasting no time turning Epic Universe into a dynamic, evolving park that doesn’t wait years for its next new addition.

Final Thoughts

Epic Universe has barely caught its breath from its grand opening, but Universal’s long-term vision is already in motion. Project 915 may be the first of many new additions coming to the Orlando resort over the next decade, and it sends a clear message to competitors: Universal is building for the future now.

The Chronos Gate entrance to Universal’s Epic Universe theme park – Photo Credit: Marvin Montanaro

As more permit details emerge and vertical construction begins, That Park Place will keep you informed every step of the way. Whatever Project 915 turns out to be, it’s the start of Epic Universe’s second act—and we’ll be watching.

What do you think this Epic Universe expansion will entail? Sound off in the comments and let us know!

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