“You are now beginning a grand circle tour of Tomorrowland, aboard the PeopleMover, the first system of its kind in the world. Since its 1967 opening, the PeopleMover has carried more than 50 million Guests.” These words were heard on the in-vehicle narration aboard the classic attraction during its last run on this day in 1995. PeopleMover vehicle designer and Disney Legend Bob Gurr recalls, “The PeopleMover at Disneyland first came about based upon Walt’s desire to have a high-capacity ride system of some kind. I based it on some of the (non-Disney) rides at the World’s Fair that I thought were really cool and really neat. General Motors had that really simple ride, it was just a palette with a chair but high capacity and real reliable, and I met the guy who designed it. Then I think AT&T had one that you kind of rode sideways, and I thought this is what we want to do, a continuous conveyor chain-like thing and try to keep it as simple as possible.” And that’s how the PeopleMover ride system was born. Now, as the ride narration directed, “Please remain seated and stay clear of the vehicle doors, kindly gather your belongings and carefully step away from your vehicle onto the moving platform.” Oh, and kindly watch your step, too. Thank you.
