Union, New Jersey
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| Union, New Jersey | |
|---|---|
| Name | Union |
| Settlement type | Township |
| Pushpin label | Union |
| Coordinates | 40, 41, 17, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | New Jersey |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Union |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | June 1, 1808 |
| Government type | Township |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Manuel Figueiredo (D, term ends December 31, 2025) |
| Leader title1 | Administrator |
| Leader name1 | Matthew J. Watkins |
| Area total km2 | 23.26 |
| Area land km2 | 23.11 |
| Area water km2 | 0.15 |
| Elevation ft | 115 |
| Population total | 59290 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 2565.8 |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 07083 |
| Area code | 908/732 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 34-74610 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 0882220 |
| Website | www.uniontownship.com |
Union, New Jersey is a township in Union County, New Jersey, centrally located within the state. Incorporated in 1808, it evolved from a collection of colonial-era villages into a major suburban community. The township is a significant commercial and residential hub, known for its diverse population and proximity to major transportation corridors like the Garden State Parkway and Interstate 78.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlement began in the late 17th century. It was part of Elizabethtown and later Connecticut Farms, a name still used for a historic section. During the American Revolutionary War, the Battle of Connecticut Farms occurred here in 1780, a skirmish following the Battle of Springfield. The township was formally incorporated by an act of the New Jersey Legislature on June 1, 1808, from portions of Elizabeth. The 19th century saw growth with the arrival of the Morris and Essex Railroad and the establishment of industries. In the 20th century, it transformed into a bedroom community for commuters to Newark and New York City, with significant residential development following World War II.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township has a total area of 9.0 square miles, with nearly all of it being land. It is bordered by Hillside and Irvington to the north, Springfield and Millburn to the west, Elizabeth and Linden to the south and east. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, part of the Atlantic coastal plain. Major waterways include the Elizabeth River, which flows along the southern border. The township contains several parks, including Rabkin Park and Hannah Caldwell Park.
Demographics
The 2020 United States census recorded a population of 59,290. The racial makeup is diverse, with significant populations identifying as White, African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino. The median household income is above the state average, and a large percentage of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Population density is high, characteristic of northeastern New Jersey suburbs. The township has historically been a destination for immigrant communities, including sizable populations from India, the Philippines, and Latin America.
Economy
The local economy is a mix of retail, healthcare, professional services, and light industry. Major employers include the corporate headquarters of The Children's Place and Kean University, which is a significant driver of economic activity. The Union Center commercial district features numerous shops and restaurants. Industrial parks are located along major highways like the Garden State Parkway and U.S. Route 22. The township is part of the larger economic sphere of Newark and the Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal.
Government
Union operates under the Faulkner Act (Mayor-Council) system of municipal government. The government consists of a Mayor and a five-member Township Council, all elected on a partisan basis. The current mayor is Manuel Figueiredo, a member of the Democratic Party. The township is located in New Jersey's 7th and 10th congressional districts, represented in the U.S. House by Thomas Kean Jr. and Donald Payne Jr.. It is part of New Jersey's 21st legislative district for representation in the New Jersey Legislature.
Education
Public education is provided by the Union Township School District, which operates elementary and middle schools, and Union High School. The district is overseen by the New Jersey Department of Education. Kean University, a public university and member of the New Jersey State College System, is located within the township. Private schools include the Union Catholic Regional High School and the Hillel Academy of Union County. The township is served by the Union Public Library, part of the Union County Library System.
Transportation
Major roadways include Interstate 78, the Garden State Parkway, U.S. Route 22, and New Jersey Route 82. Public transportation is provided by NJ Transit bus services connecting to Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City and other regional hubs. The township is served by the Union station on the Raritan Valley Line, providing rail service to Newark Penn Station and New York Penn Station. Newark Liberty International Airport is located approximately 5 miles to the east.
Category:Townships in Union County, New Jersey Category:Populated places established in 1808