I still say there are decent odds that part of this area becomes New Orleans Square or similar. That would have quite a few "pros" in its favor:
- While not as thematically perfect as Rivers, would retain theming much more than cartoon cars (While still allowing them to fill in rivers, which I think people have said are expensive or in need of repairs? And would free up more land for use.)
- Bonus opportunity to put in more food and retail under the guise of - "Fans talked - we listened. MERCH!!!"
- I think New Orleans Square is a pretty big hit at Disneyland, yes? Would be a way to sell the Tiana ride a bit better. It might be better received as part of a beloved land.
- Mardi Gras celebrations (and associated $$), which Universal has at a much larger scale than Disney.
- They can copy a fair bit of the design from Disneyland, which I assume saves cash.
My gut instinct says this is probably the direction they'll go. The biggest "con" would be that they missed an opportunity to add an area that is more boy-centric. But given the backlash, I don't think that will be a make or break factor.