Lubavitch of Bucks County engaged ESI to support the preparation of a competitive application to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s (DCED) Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), Special Program Priorities (SPP). The effort centered on securing tax credit-eligible contributions to advance the development of PlayaRaya, a first-of-its-kind, fully accessible recreational campus designed to serve individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities.
The project team led its client through the development of a comprehensive grant application strategy that combined economic development positioning, impact storytelling, and technical budget alignment
ESI coordinated the documentation of private-sector participation, incorporating commitment letters and structuring contributions to maximize eligibility under the NAP tax credit program. The team collected, reviewed, and compiled all required materials, including cost estimates, project timelines, and supporting documentation prior to submission of the full electronic submission via DCED’s portal.
Support through NAP funding enables PlayaRaya to advance construction of its facilities and move toward a defined opening timeline. Through the NAP tax credit, local businesses have committed funding to support construction of the accessible pool and future campus components. This public-private partnership model demonstrates how state-supported incentives can mobilize private investment to address urgent community needs.
As additional phases are completed over the next three to four years, PlayaRaya will evolve into a comprehensive recreational campus offering aquatic programming, playgrounds, trails, sports facilities, and therapeutic equine experiences. Beyond its immediate local impact, the initiative is intended to serve as a prototype for ultra-accessible recreational campuses. The model demonstrates how inclusive design and strategic public-private funding partnerships can create scalable, lasting community assets.
