Disney's New Housing Project: A Look At Cotino In Rancho Mirage

Disney's ambitious housing project in California's Coachella Valley is starting to take shape in the desert landscape of Rancho Mirage, amid concerns from locals. This project, known as Cotino, is the first of Disney's "Storyliving by Disney" residential communities. According to the company's website, Cotino is envisioned as "a dynamic creative oasis with a stunning landscape in the Greater Palm Springs Area." The luxury community aims to welcome "homeowners of all ages," including single-family residences, with some specifically designated for residents over 55.

While the first residents aren't expected to move into Cotino until early 2025, home sales have already commenced, with the initial batch of 300 homes under development. Prices for these homes start at more than $1 million and can exceed $2 million, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. The project involves the construction of 1,932 planned homes spread across more than 600 acres, along with a 24-acre lagoon, sandy beach, and various recreational amenities.

Home prices in Rancho Mirage are significantly higher than the national and state averages. According to Redfin's latest data, the median sale price for a home in Rancho Mirage was $920,500 in July, marking a 2.8 percent increase compared to a year earlier. For perspective, the median sale price of a home in the U.S. during the same period was $438,706, while the figure for California was $836,300.

The project aims to blend the Disney experience into everyday living. Membership to the community will grant access to curated experiences, including wellness programs, entertainment such as live performances and cooking classes, and numerous philanthropic endeavors. This unique approach to community living is designed to provide residents with both luxury and a sense of belonging.

However, not all locals are thrilled about the new development. Residents like Mark Wolpa express concerns regarding pollution and increased traffic that Cotino may bring to the peaceful Rancho Mirage area. He articulated that the community's lagoon might be wasteful in a region where water is already a precious resource. Other locals share similar environmental worries, highlighting the need for considerations regarding local wildlife in the landscaping plans.

As the Cotino project continues to progress, it remains to be seen how it will impact local residents and the environment in the Coachella Valley. While Disney's vision of a vibrant community is ambitious, the response from the current residents will play a significant role in shaping the future of this new neighborhood.