Rabbi Yudy Shemtov, a Newtown Township resident, is planning to open a waterpark and recreational facility in Langhorne for individuals with special needs, writes Ryan Mulligan for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
The new attraction, named Playa Raya, is being constructed on the site of the former Breezy Point Swim Club in Northampton Township.
Shemtov, who is currently raising funds for the project, hopes the facility will be a model for future projects for the special needs community.
The first phase of the facility includes a swimming pool with shade structures, a two-story pool building, a ball pit, and a splash pad. The first phase will open this summer.
A second phase would add walking trails, fitness stations, and accessible playgrounds. Down the line, courts for pickleball and baseball, along with equestrian facilities, are planned to be constructed.
The 12-acre site was acquired for $729,000 in 2022 and Shemtov currently estimates the total cost of the project to fall between $6.5 and $7.5 million.
“It’s really an opportunity to invest in something that’s going to change the landscape of recreation locally and across the state and across the country,” said Shemtov.
“It’s creating a [recreational] space, in a way, that typical and special needs individuals can enjoy together,” he said. “It’s not just for special needs children or adults with disabilities, it’s for the families.”
Read more about the new Playa Raya waterpark and recreational facility coming to Langhorne in the Philadelphia Business Journal.
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