Hello Krista! Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside is one of my family's favorite places to stay in all of Walt DisneyWorld Resort. The combination of recreational activities, theme, and amenities make it a truly unique experience. Being next to
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter helps too!
Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside is currently going through a soft goods refurbishment that is slated to continue through until the middle of next year. Resort Hotel rooms in many of the buildings in Alligator Bayou have already been completed with the remaining set to be completed by early next year. After that, work is scheduled to begin on the rooms in the mansions on Magnolia Bend by early spring 2019.
Soft Goods refurbishments usually refer to interior alterations and the upgrading of rooms. This (usually) has little effect on the exteriors and with large resorts such as Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, you may not even be aware of where the work is taking place. Cast Members follow strict guidelines for quiet hours to ensure that noise levels never continue during sleeping hours for children.
If these refurbishments are a concern to you for your visit, Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter has recently completed their refurbishments and do not currently have any scheduled for January 2019.
Have a Magical Visit!
~Todd