Lakewood, New Jersey
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| Lakewood, New Jersey | |
|---|---|
| Name | Lakewood, New Jersey |
| Settlement type | Township |
| Pushpin label | Lakewood |
| Coordinates | 40, 05, 52, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | New Jersey |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Ocean |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | March 23, 1892 |
| Government type | Township |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Raymond Coles (term ends December 31, 2025) |
| Leader title1 | Administrator |
| Leader name1 | Matthew C. Walker |
| Area total km2 | 66.80 |
| Area land km2 | 64.66 |
| Area water km2 | 2.14 |
| Elevation ft | 60 |
| Population total | 135158 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 2090.3 |
| Population est | 138537 |
| Pop est as of | 2023 |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 08701 |
| Area code | 732/848 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 34-38580 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0882101 |
| Website | www.lakewoodnj.gov |
Lakewood, New Jersey is a township in Ocean County, New Jersey, and one of the fastest-growing municipalities in the state. Originally developed as a winter resort for wealthy industrialists from New York City and Philadelphia, it has transformed into a major center for Orthodox Judaism and home to Beth Medrash Govoha, one of the world's largest yeshivas. The township features a mix of historic estates, commercial development, and residential neighborhoods, situated within the New Jersey Pine Barrens.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlement. In the late 19th century, it was part of Brick Township and known for its lumber and iron industries. The arrival of the Central Railroad of New Jersey spurred its development as the resort community of "Lakewood," named for its many lakes, and it was incorporated as a township by an act of the New Jersey Legislature in 1892. Magnates like John D. Rockefeller and Jay Gould built grand estates, with the Laurel-in-the-Pines hotel becoming a nationally famous destination. Following World War II, the community began to attract a growing Haredi Jewish population, a demographic shift that accelerated in the late 20th century and fundamentally reshaped the township.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 66.80 square kilometers, including 2.14 square kilometers of water. It is located in the coastal plain region of New Jersey and is part of the Pine Barrens ecosystem. Major bodies of water include Lake Carasaljo and Prospect Park. The township borders Brick Township, Toms River, Jackson Township, and Howell Township.
Demographics
The 2020 United States census recorded a population of 135,158, making it the fifth-most populous municipality in New Jersey. The population is notably young, with a median age of 22.2 years, and has one of the highest birth rates in the nation. A significant majority of residents identify as Orthodox Jewish, with Hebrew and Yiddish commonly spoken. The community is served by extensive private educational and social service networks centered around Beth Medrash Govoha.
Economy
The local economy is diverse, with major sectors including education, healthcare, retail, and light manufacturing. Beth Medrash Govoha is a primary employer and economic driver. The Lakewood Industrial Park houses numerous businesses and distribution centers. Retail corridors along Route 9 and Route 88 feature extensive shopping plazas. The township also maintains a presence in the Monmouth-Ocean farm belt, with several active agricultural operations.
Government and infrastructure
Lakewood operates under the Faulkner Act council-manager form of government, with a five-member Township Committee and an appointed Township manager. Local police services are provided by the Lakewood Police Department. Key infrastructure includes the Lakewood Bus Terminal, a major hub for New Jersey Transit bus services, and proximity to the Garden State Parkway. The township is part of New Jersey's 4th and 9th congressional districts, represented in the U.S. House by Chris Smith and Bill Pascrell.
Culture and notable people
Cultural life is largely defined by Orthodox Jewish institutions, including numerous synagogues, schools, and community organizations. The historic Lakewood BlueClaws, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Philadelphia Phillies, play at FirstEnergy Park. Notable residents have included industrialist John D. Rockefeller, baseball player Moe Berg, musician Jon Bon Jovi, and former State Senator Robert Singer. The former Lakewood Airport was an early site for airmail service and military aviation training.
Category:Townships in Ocean County, New Jersey Category:Populated places established in 1892 Category:1892 establishments in New Jersey