Universal Studios Hollywood Sets Major 5 Year Expansion Plan (VIDEO)

Universal Studios Hollywood has announced a five-year investment plan building on the 2012 introduction of "Transformers: The Ride - 3D" and continuing through 2016 with the Los Angeles debut of "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter."

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"This is a pivotal time in the history of Universal Studios Hollywood as we build upon our extraordinary success and expand our vision for the future of our world-class destination," said Larry Kurzweil, president of Universal Studios Hollywood.  "This broad investment in our five-year transformation will further strengthen Universal Studios Hollywood as an economic leader, significantly contributing to long-term employment opportunities and tourism throughout L.A."

"This amazing investment by Universal Studios Hollywood represents a dramatic boost for Los Angeles tourism, creating new world class entertainment that will add new jobs, stimulate hospitality revenues and contribute to the economic prosperity of our city," said Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti.

Working in collaboration with Universal Creative, Universal Studios Hollywood has crafted a five-year blueprint for the park's expansion. 

The plan began in 2012 with the introduction of "Transformers: The Ride - 3D." In the summer of 2013, the installation of the new Art Deco-styled Universal Plaza provided a new focal point for the park. 

On April 12, 2014, "Despicable Me Minion Mayhem" and "Super Silly Fun Land" will open at Universal Studios Hollywood. The footprint of the two new attractions will represent the park's first foray into fully expansive themed environments. From experiencing Gru's neighborhood to Miss Hattie's Home for Girls and the imaginative seaside carnival, this all-encompassing approach is a departure from the park's more commonly used vignette ride exteriors.

In 2015, as part of its 50th anniversary, the park will debut two more attractions: "Springfield," an immersive land surrounding "The Simpsons Ride," and "Fast & Furious—Supercharged," which will serve as the grand finale to the Studio Tour. "Springfield" will open in spring 2015 and "Fast & Furious" in summer 2015. 

Finally, in 2016, the "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" will arrive in the California park. 

Visit www.universalstudioshollywood.com