Not as dramatic change as the earlier decisions to stop using the lakes for recreational bathing and then still leaving the beaches there.
The sunbathing and recreation elements can be replicated elsewhere on the property in sundecks and play areas... so there is really no loss in amenities anyway. The viewing for nighttime events isn't really impacted and the views can be kept intact even if the beaches go away entirely.
The landscaping and waterfront can be altered to be natural without it being approachable. Disney could even keep the sand washups but move the pedestrian barrier back to along the paths. Rocks, barriers, rope lines, etc can all establish a barrier without necessarily removing the water's edge look from afar.
I think adding the ropes but not altering the beach uses and accessibility itself is another stupid move... that like the years before it makes Disney maintain areas that would just make the guests go 'huh?? why is that even there if no one can use it'. Which is why I believe as other projects happen, you'll see these beaches finally goto YesterLand and the waterfront being redone.
I don't think anyone thinks the Grand Floridian looks awful from this view...
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And that is all the side that is break rock and not foot accessible.
And BTW: I've done plenty of marketing... comes with the territory of designing the corporate booths, presentations and strategy for industry shows, events, and other goodies that came with being Product Line Owners.