RFGH Aquatic Services Update: A Message from the RFGH CEO
Dear RFGH Community, For more than three decades, the Redington Rehab pool has served greater Somerset County for both medical and social needs. It has been more than just a place to swim; it has been a place for community members to connect, for our children to learn to swim, and for providing opportunities to maximize the health and well-being of many. It is with a heavy heart that I must share difficult news regarding RFGH Aquatic Services. After a thorough review of the state of the current infrastructure, safety regulations, and clinical needs, the very difficult decision has been made to close the pools and aquatics programs at RFGH. While no definitive date has been determined, tentatively, pool services will cease in the fall of 2026. The services will decrease over this time, with a slight decrease in pool hours of operation starting in May of 2026. It is important to state that our current infrastructure needs to ensure the viability of services and the safety of our community, which was the driving factor that led to the initial discussion of the future of our pools. In addition, RFGH has seen a 13% increase in referral needs; inclusive of three modalities (physical, speech, and occupational therapy) just in the last year. From 2022-2025, we have increased visits by 45%, with wait times unfortunately doubling during that same time frame to initiate services. Aquatic services as a whole represent only 3.7% of the total gross charges for all of the Rehab services, while this service occupies 46% of the total Rehab building. Unfortunately, our space limitations to meet this growth have had a negative impact on patient access, flow, and safety. With the goal to repurpose the pool space to meet the growing therapy needs for all ages, we believe that we can focus on timely, efficient, high-quality care. We have developed a strategic plan to make attempts in filling the gaps in aquatic therapy to both meet the physical and social needs of our pool patrons. We recognize the importance of both and our responsibility in upholding the mission and values that RFGH has so proudly upheld for many decades. The strategic plan was developed with a focus on collaborating with local town leaders, local philanthropic leaders, and businesses that could meet the direct needs of aquatics. We will remain committed to being a partner and advocate in any future opportunities for a community pool. Thank you for your understanding as we navigate this transition. More information on changes to pool hours, definitive closure timelines, alternative services, and potential construction will follow as those decisions are finalized. Sincerely, Tiffany Comis CEO
