URGENT UPDATE: Rabbi Yudy Shemtov is set to transform the former Breezy Point Swim Club in Langhorne into an inclusive recreational park for children with special needs, aiming to raise $7.6 million for the project. The initiative, named PlayaRaya, meaning “play your way,” is designed to provide a space where every child can thrive, regardless of their abilities.
The park, located on a 12-acre site, was purchased for $729,000 in 2022 thanks to a generous donor. Rabbi Shemtov has already raised over $1 million and plans to open the park’s first phase—including a pool, splash pad, and ball pit—by summer 2026. This phase is relatively straightforward as the property is already zoned for recreation.
However, the second phase poses a greater challenge. Rabbi Shemtov seeks an additional $6 million to add essential features such as walking trails, fitness stations, playgrounds, and possibly equestrian facilities. Authorities are currently reviewing these plans, as the property is not yet zoned for these enhancements.
Rabbi Shemtov emphasized that accessibility is the core of the park’s design. “A play area won’t have ramps in addition to steps. There will only be ramps,” he stated, highlighting that every aspect of the park will be designed for inclusivity. This vision is an extension of the work done through The Shul’s Friendship Circle, which connects volunteers to children and young adults with special needs.
The COVID-19 pandemic opened Rabbi Shemtov’s eyes to a critical gap: families lacked outdoor spaces that catered to both children with and without disabilities. “I realized that our camp is only 25 days a year. But what do you do for the other 340 days?” he questioned. The new facility aims to fill this void, facilitating a space where families can enjoy quality time together.
Rabbi Shemtov is actively seeking partnerships with organizations like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, which could provide therapeutic services on-site. “This will expand the Friendship Circle to a completely different level,” he said, outlining plans for trails, sports fields, treehouses, and fishing areas.
The park’s inclusive design will also consider sensory needs, such as maintaining appropriate water temperatures in the splash pad to accommodate children on the autism spectrum. “The entire family can be there together,” Rabbi Shemtov affirmed.
Despite the significant fundraising still required, Rabbi Shemtov remains optimistic. He is tapping into various foundations, donors, and state grants to secure the necessary funds. The success of this project could serve as a blueprint for other communities aiming to build similar inclusive spaces.
As the project develops, Rabbi Shemtov intends to share his plans publicly to inspire and assist other developers in creating inclusive environments. He envisions a shift in societal perceptions, promoting the idea that everyone is alike, fostering understanding and acceptance.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking initiative that promises to change the landscape of recreational facilities for children with special needs.
