Woodbridge Township, New Jersey
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| Woodbridge Township, New Jersey | |
|---|---|
| Name | Woodbridge Township |
| Settlement type | Township |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision name1 | New Jersey |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name2 | Middlesex |
| Government type | Mayor–Council |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | John E. McCormac (D) |
| Established title | Incorporated |
| Established date | June 1, 1669 |
| Area total km2 | 63.38 |
| Area land km2 | 60.30 |
| Area water km2 | 3.08 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population total | 103639 |
| Population density km2 | 1718.6 |
| Timezone | EST |
| Utc offset | -5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | -4 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Code |
| Postal code | 07095, 08863 |
| Area code | 732/848 |
| Website | www.twp.woodbridge.nj.us |
Woodbridge Township, New Jersey is a township in Middlesex County, situated within the New York metropolitan region. As one of the oldest original townships in the state, it was formally incorporated by a charter granted by Governor Philip Carteret in 1669. The township is a diverse, populous community known for its extensive commercial corridors, significant historical sites, and robust transportation infrastructure connecting it to New York City and the broader Northeastern United States.
History
The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape people before European settlement began in the early 17th century. The township was officially founded on June 1, 1669, making it one of New Jersey's oldest English settlements, named after Reverend John Woodbridge of Newbury, Massachusetts. During the American Revolutionary War, local forges supplied the Continental Army with munitions, and the community was visited by General George Washington. The 19th century saw growth with the arrival of the Central Railroad of New Jersey and the development of industries like clay mining, exemplified by the Clay Works operations. The 20th century brought massive suburban expansion, accelerated by the construction of the Garden State Parkway and the New Jersey Turnpike, transforming the area into a major residential and commercial hub.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the township encompasses a total area of 63.38 square kilometers, including 3.08 square kilometers of water, primarily from the Arthur Kill and the Raritan River. It borders the Township of Edison, the City of Rahway, and the Borough of Carteret, while sharing a waterfront with Staten Island across the Arthur Kill. The terrain is largely flat coastal plain, with several parks and conservation areas such as the Heavenly Farms Conservation Area and the Woodbridge River corridor. Major waterways have historically supported industry and now provide recreational opportunities and natural habitats.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 103,639, reflecting a diverse community. The racial makeup includes significant White, African American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino populations. The median household income is above the state average, with a high percentage of residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher. Population density is among the highest in Middlesex County, with a mix of single-family homes, apartment complexes, and senior living communities contributing to the residential character.
Economy
The township's economy is characterized by a strong commercial and retail sector, anchored by the Woodbridge Center mall and numerous big-box retailers along U.S. Route 9 and U.S. Route 1. It is a major corporate and industrial center, hosting facilities for companies like Bristol-Myers Squibb, General Motors, and FedEx. The Port of New York and New Jersey and nearby Newark Liberty International Airport support logistics and distribution operations. The downtown areas of its historic villages, such as Avenel and Colonia, feature a mix of local businesses and professional services.
Government
Woodbridge operates under the Mayor–Council system of municipal government. The mayor, John E. McCormac, and a ten-member Township Council are elected on a partisan basis. The township is part of New Jersey's 6th and 13th legislative districts, represented in the New Jersey Legislature by State Senator Patrick Diegnan and others. At the federal level, it is within New Jersey's 6th congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Frank Pallone. Local services include a large Police Department and a professional Fire Division.
Education
Public education is managed by the Woodbridge Township School District, which operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, including Woodbridge High School and Colonia High School. The district is known for its specialized programs and consistently meets state standards. Several private and parochial schools, such as those affiliated with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen, also serve the community. Higher education opportunities are provided nearby by Middlesex College and Rutgers University, with continuing education programs offered through the township's own facilities.
Transportation
The township is a critical transportation nexus, served by multiple major highways including the New Jersey Turnpike (Interstate 95), the Garden State Parkway, and Interstate 287. Public transit is provided by NJ Transit, with rail service on the North Jersey Coast Line at stations in Avenel and Woodbridge, and extensive bus routes connecting to New York City and Newark. Proximity to Newark Liberty International Airport and the Elizabeth seaport facilities further enhances its regional connectivity for both freight and passenger travel.
Category:Townships in Middlesex County, New Jersey Category:1669 establishments in New Jersey New Jersey|New Jersey|New Jersey|New Jersey