Coronavirus: Construction of Universal Studios’ ‘Epic Universe’ theme park shelved

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Construction on “Epic Universe,” a Universal Studios theme park, has been delayed indefinitely, company officials said.

NBC Universal, the parent company that owns the theme parks, paused development until “our future becomes more certain,” WFTV reported.

The park was being built on 750 acres and scheduled to open in 2023.

Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Japan reopened in June after temporarily closing because of coronavirus restrictions. Universal Studios Hollywood remains closed.

Revenue from the theme parks decreased 94% because of the closures, WFTV reported.

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