URGENT UPDATE: Rabbi Yudy Shemtov is transforming a long-abandoned site in Langhorne into a groundbreaking recreational park specifically designed for children with special needs. The park, named PlayaRaya, aims to foster inclusivity and accessibility, with an ambitious fundraising goal of $6 million still in progress.
The project is taking place on the former Breezy Point Swim Club site, purchased for $729,000 in 2022 after years of family litigation. Shemtov has already successfully raised over $1 million to kick off phase one, which includes a pool, ball pit, and splash pad expected to open by summer 2026.
“This park is not just about fun; it’s about creating a space where every child can play together, regardless of their abilities,” Shemtov stated. He emphasizes that accessibility will be the “core” of the park’s design. All areas will feature ramps instead of steps, ensuring that children with mobility challenges can navigate freely.
Shemtov, who leads The Shul at Newtown and the Friendship Circle organization, envisions this park as a solution to a pressing need observed during the pandemic: the lack of outdoor facilities that accommodate both special needs children and their peers. He recognized that the existing parks either catered exclusively to special needs or lacked necessary accessibility features.
“We realized our summer camp only operates for 25 days a year. What about the other 340 days?” Shemtov remarked, illustrating the urgency for a permanent, inclusive recreational space.
In the second phase of development, Shemtov plans to introduce walking trails, fitness stations, playgrounds, pickleball courts, and possibly equestrian facilities. This phase is contingent upon raising an additional $5-6 million and receiving approval from Northampton Township, as the land is not currently zoned for these expansions.
“Accessibility’s not an afterthought,” Shemtov insists. “It’s the core.” This commitment includes subtle accommodations, such as temperature-controlled splash pads to ensure comfort for children on the autism spectrum.
The rabbi is actively engaging with foundations, private donors, and state grants to secure funding for this transformative project. Collaboration with organizations like the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is also underway, with plans to utilize the space for therapies and community programs.
Once completed, Shemtov aims to share his blueprint with other developers to promote this inclusive model widely. “This becomes a subtle education for everyone that we are all alike,” he believes.
The urgency for such an inclusive facility has never been more apparent, and Shemtov remains optimistic about the momentum building around PlayaRaya. “What we are doing here is more than just building a recreational space; we are creating a community,” he said.
As the project progresses, Shemtov’s vision for a park that accommodates all children while fostering a sense of belonging and community continues to gain traction. This significant development is set to reshape recreational access for families throughout the region, making it a project to watch closely in the coming years.