Westwood

Westwood
Name	Westwood
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United States
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	New Jersey
Subdivision type2	County
Subdivision name2	Bergen
Timezone	EST
Utc offset	-5
Timezone DST	EDT
Utc offset DST	-4
Blank name	FIPS code
Blank1 name	GNIS feature ID

Westwood. Westwood is a borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, United States, situated within the New York metropolitan area. Incorporated in 1894, it is known for its historic downtown, proximity to major transportation corridors like the Pascack Valley Line, and its status as a commuter suburb. The borough features a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and preserved natural areas such as the Westwood Public Library Park.

History

The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlement as part of New Netherland. It was later incorporated from portions of Washington Township following the arrival of the New York and New Jersey Railroad in the late 19th century. Key historical structures include the Westwood Railroad Station, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Old Hook Mill, which dates to the colonial era. The borough's development was significantly shaped by its role as a stop on the Erie Railroad and subsequent growth as a bedroom community for professionals commuting to Manhattan.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the borough has a total area that includes several small bodies of water like Mill Pond and is traversed by the Pascack Brook. It is bordered by Hillsdale, River Vale, Washington Township, and Emerson. The terrain is characterized by gentle hills and valleys, part of the Piedmont region, with notable parks including Veterans Memorial Park and the Westwood Recreation Complex.

Demographics

As of the most recent United States Census, the population is predominantly White, with growing communities of Asian and Hispanic residents. The median household income is above the state average, with a high percentage of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Major employers in the region include Valley Hospital in nearby Ridgewood and corporate offices along the Interstate 287 corridor, contributing to the borough's socioeconomic profile.

Education

The Westwood Regional School District serves students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, operating Westwood Regional High School and several elementary schools. The district is known for its participation in the National Merit Scholarship program and consistently high rankings by Niche. Higher education opportunities are accessible at nearby institutions such as Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck and Ramapo College in Mahwah. The Westwood Public Library serves as a community hub for lifelong learning and cultural events.

Notable people

Notable individuals associated with the borough include actress Michele Lee, known for her role on the television series Knots Landing, and Major League Baseball player John Montefusco. Author Mary Higgins Clark resided in the area for a time, and former Assemblyman John E. Rooney represented the district. Musician and composer John Zorn has performed at local venues, contributing to the area's cultural scene.

In popular culture

The borough has been featured as a filming location for television shows like The Sopranos and the film The Family Stone. Its distinctive downtown and railroad station have appeared in episodes of Law & Order and the Netflix series The Blacklist. The annual Westwood Street Fair and events like the Westwood Chamber of Commerce holiday parade are often highlighted in regional media, including The Record and News 12 New Jersey.

Category:Boroughs in New Jersey Category:Bergen County, New Jersey Category:Populated places established in 1894