East Brunswick’s Crystal Springs: Mayor Says Park Is Open, Vows Self-Sufficiency Fix

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Mayor Brad Cohen is clarifying comments he made last week about the future of Crystal Springs Water Park, saying the facility will open this summer and that there are no plans to shut it down.

"I'd like to clarify some comments that I made last week regarding Crystal Springs Water Park," Cohen said Tuesday. "There's no plans to close Crystal Springs Water Park, and I encourage everybody to come out this summer."

Cohen's original remarks, made during a public hearing on the township's proposed 2026 municipal budget, raised questions about the long-term viability of the facility. At that meeting, Cohen said the township would eventually need to decide "as a town, as a board, as a community — is it even something that's worth continuing as an ongoing business?" He cited a growing pool utility deficit, staffing challenges tied to the park's short two-month season, and competition from the township's year-round ice rink.

The proposed $89.4 million budget shows the pool utility deficit grew from $600,000 to $630,000 this year, with the general fund absorbing the full shortfall. The pool utility is carrying no operating surplus, down from $51,930 the prior year.

In his follow-up comments, Cohen confirmed the township will again draw on general funds to cover the park's costs in 2026.

"Due to the high anticipated expenses this year, the township will be dipping into general funds in order to cover the cost of running the park this year," Cohen said. "Being transparent has always been important to me, and that's why you should know that."

Cohen said the fiscal pressure has not derailed the township's broader budget goals. Despite the general fund draw, he said the municipality has kept its proposed tax increase to under 1 percent.

"Despite all of that, the township has been able to keep and introduce a municipal budget that's under 1 percent this year," Cohen said. "Taxes are a critical issue. I take the budget as a township very seriously."

Looking ahead, Cohen said his administration will focus on making the park financially independent.

"I can promise you that as we look at next year's budget, we will be looking very seriously at finding ways to make sure that Crystal Springs Water Park is self-sufficient again," he said.

Cohen urged residents to support the park by purchasing memberships and bringing family and friends.

"Please come out this summer and enjoy Crystal Springs Water Park," he said. "It's a great facility and a great value. Bring your friends and bring your family."

A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. May 11 at Township Council Chambers.

Have a correction or a news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com