Census Shows Increase in Population, Officials Not Surprised

With a growth in population as evidenced by the recent released information, Bridgewater’s mix of businesses, good schools and quality is what some officials say attracts such diversity to the township.

“Bridgewater is a very desirable place to raise a family,” said Bridgewater Township Mayor Patricia Flannery.

According to the national census, Bridgewater has 44,464 residents, as opposed to the 42,940 residents found to be in the township in 2000, when the previous census was conducted.

In addition, the census found that there has been a 3,000-resident increase in the Asian population, a jump from 4,525 in 2000 to 7,927 in 2010.

Superintendent of Schools Michael Schilder said that diversity is fully embraced in the schools.

“Diversity is always an advantage to communities and school districts, and it is certainly embraced in the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District,” he said.

For Flannery, Bridgewater is a place with very varied opportunities for residents and those looking for both economic and family opportunities.

“While we have beautiful scenic countryside, we also have a good number of high quality jobs right here,” she said. “The high concentration of pharmaceutical and biotechnology jobs in the area attract educated and technology-savvy residents.”

Flannery said the fact that Bridgewater is directly located at the intersection of so many highways—Routes 287, 78, 202 and 206—allow for an easy commute both into the area and to more metropolitan locations.

But overall, Flannery said, she believes the township’s population has risen over the years because Bridgewater offers many different resources for people in all stages of their lives.

“We have a real variety of housing stock, good schools and a lot of amenities that make it a great place for raising children,” she said.