Montclair, New Jersey

Montclair, New Jersey
Name	Montclair, New Jersey
Settlement type	Township
Nickname	The "Suburb of New York"
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	New Jersey
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Essex
Established title	Incorporated
Established date	April 15, 1868
Government type	Faulkner Act (Council-Manager)
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Sean Spiller
Leader title1	Manager
Leader name1	Timothy Stafford
Area total km2	16.32
Area land km2	16.30
Area water km2	0.02
Elevation ft	299
Population total	40421
Population as of	2020
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	Eastern (EST)
Utc offset	-5
Timezone DST	EDT
Utc offset DST	-4
Postal code type	ZIP Codes
Postal code	07042, 07043
Area code	973
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank info	34-47500
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID
Blank1 info	0885301
Website	www.montclairnjusa.org

Montclair, New Jersey. Montclair is a prominent township in Essex County, New Jersey, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and diverse community. Often called a "suburb of New York City," it is a major commuter hub with direct rail service via New Jersey Transit to Penn Station. The township is home to several prestigious institutions, including Montclair State University and the Montclair Art Museum.

History

The area was originally part of a land purchase from the Lenape by settlers from the New Haven Colony in the 17th century. It was known as West Bloomfield until its renaming and incorporation in 1868, a change influenced by the scenic views reminiscent of the French countryside. Early development was spurred by the Morris Canal and the arrival of the Erie Railroad, which attracted wealthy industrialists from New York City and Newark who built grand estates. Notable historical residents include the inventor Thomas Edison, who had a laboratory here, and the painter George Inness, who lived and worked in the township. The Watchung Mountains provided a backdrop for many of his landscapes. The community played a role in the American Revolutionary War, with local militia involved in the Battle of Springfield.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 6.3 square miles, nearly all of which is land. It lies on the western edge of the Newark Basin and is characterized by the steep ridges of the First Watchung Mountain, which creates a notable elevation change. The topography includes several parks and reservations, such as the Alonzo F. Bonsal Wildlife Preserve and the Mills Reservation. Major waterways include Toney's Brook and the Second River, which are part of the Passaic River watershed. The township is bordered by Clifton, Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Glen Ridge, and Bloomfield.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 40,921, representing a diverse community. The racial makeup is approximately 55% White, 30% Black or African American, 8% Asian, and 10% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The township has a high educational attainment level, with over 60% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Median household income significantly exceeds both the New Jersey and national averages. Historically, Montclair was an early leader in residential integration, with activists like Ruth Bader Ginsburg's mother, Celia Bader, being a resident, and it was a filming location for scenes in The Sopranos.

Economy

The economy is characterized by a strong professional services sector, with many residents commuting to positions in New York City, particularly in finance, media, and law. The township's downtown, centered on Bloomfield Avenue, features a mix of national retailers and independent boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. Major employers within the township include Montclair State University, one of the largest public universities in New Jersey, and Hackensack Meridian Health, which operates Mountainside Medical Center. The presence of the Montclair Film festival and the Wellmont Theater also supports a vibrant arts and entertainment economy.

Culture and recreation

Montclair is renowned for its robust cultural institutions. The Montclair Art Museum, founded in 1914, holds a significant collection of American art and Native American art. The Montclair Film Festival, co-founded by filmmaker Stephen Colbert, attracts national talent. Performance venues include the historic Wellmont Theater, which hosts concerts and comedy shows, and the Montclair State University campus, home to the Alexander Kasser Theater and the Peak Performances series. Outdoor recreation is centered on its extensive park system, including Edgemont Memorial Park, Anderson Park, and the trails of the Eagle Rock Reservation. The township has been the filming location for numerous productions, including *The Incredible Hulk* and The Family Man.

Government

Montclair operates under the Faulkner Act council-manager form of government, adopted in 1980. The township council consists of seven members elected at-large to four-year staggered terms; the council selects a mayor from among its members. The day-to-day administration is handled by an appointed Township Manager. The township is part of New Jersey's 10th congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Donald Payne Jr., and lies in the 34th Legislative District for the New Jersey Legislature. Local police services are provided by the Montclair Police Department, and fire protection by a combination paid and volunteer department.

Category:Townships in Essex County, New Jersey Category:1868 establishments in New Jersey