Construction for Walt Disney World began on May 30, 1967, with the first priority being necessary roadwork and utilities.
The first building to be built was the preview center which is located along Hotel Plaza Boulevard in Lake Buena Vista.
The goal of the preview center was to communicate to guests and media that this project was an all-new approach to family vacationing that encompassed not only a Disney park but all kinds of entertainment, dining, sports, and recreational activities on a larger scale than ever before.
The preview center building is now home to the Amateur Athletic Union.
A couple of years later, on April 30, 1969, the Walt Disney World Resort’s first press event was held, offering attendees a first look at various elements of the project. Roy O. Disney also reveals that the Walt Disney World opening date will be October 1, 1971.