Mickey Mouse is gearing up to sprinkle some Disney magic in the Coachella Valley, and whether locals embrace it or not remains to be seen.
Nestled in Rancho Mirage, the Walt Disney Co. is progressing on an ambitious project named Cotino, which promises to weave Disney’s enchanting touch into real estate. Dubbed as Disney’s “Storyliving” initiative, Cotino aims to cater to Disney enthusiasts wanting the branded experience to seep into their daily lives. From an “Incredibles”-themed gathering space to a sprawling 24-acre lagoon, Cotino is set to host 1,932 homes spread across over 600 acres.
While some locals love Mickey, others miss the serenity. Mark Wolpa, a resident since 2008, laments the transformation from a peaceful oasis to a bustling construction site. Traffic jams and road closures have become common due to the swarm of construction vehicles. And for some, the 24-acre lagoon raised eyebrows in terms of water usage in a desert where water is a precious commodity.
Disney partnered with Crystal Lagoons to ensure the artificial oasis, Cotino Bay, is maintained efficiently. Although Crystal Lagoons claims their technology is water-conscious, locals like Bill Miller, a gardener and environmentalist, remain skeptical about the ecological impact. Concerns over wildlife being displaced and the extensive use of water remain prevalent.
Despite the concerns, the development continues. With home sales already commenced and the first batch of 300 homes projected to welcome residents in early 2025, real estate agents like Katie Dorr admire the meticulous Disney design sensibilities. Yet, the debate endures: will Cotino seamlessly blend into the community, or will it reshape Rancho Mirage entirely?
Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion about this enchanting yet contentious development. We’d love to hear from you!
Source: Jack Flemming
