Middlesex County, New Jersey

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2018-05-20 10 18 51 View north along New Jersey State Route 444 (Garden State Parkway) just south of Exit 120 in Old Bridge Township, Middlesex County, New Jersey

Middlesex County, New Jersey is a county located in the central part of the U.S. state of New Jersey. As of the 2020 United States Census, it is the state's second-most populous county, with a population of 863,162. Middlesex County is part of the New York metropolitan area, and many of its residents commute to New York City for work. The county seat is New Brunswick, which is also home to Rutgers University, the state university of New Jersey.

History

Middlesex County was established on March 7, 1683, as one of the original counties of East Jersey. Its name is derived from the historic county of Middlesex in England. Throughout its history, Middlesex County has been an important center for commerce and industry, particularly during the Industrial Revolution when cities like New Brunswick and Perth Amboy became significant for their manufacturing and shipping activities.

Geography

Middlesex County covers an area of approximately 322 square miles, of which 308 square miles is land and 14 square miles is water. It is bordered by the counties of Union to the north, Monmouth to the southeast, Mercer to the southwest, and Somerset to the northwest. The county's geography is characterized by its flat plains and is intersected by major waterways, including the Raritan River and the Arthur Kill, which separates New Jersey from Staten Island, New York.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, Middlesex County has a diverse population, with significant communities of Asian Americans, particularly of Indian and Chinese descent, as well as Hispanic and African American communities. The county has seen steady population growth over the past decades, driven by immigration and its proximity to major metropolitan areas.

Economy

Middlesex County's economy is diverse, with strong sectors in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. The presence of Rutgers University contributes significantly to the local economy through education, research, and healthcare. The county is also home to several major corporations, particularly in the pharmaceutical and technology industries.

Government

Middlesex County is governed by a Board of County Commissioners, which consists of seven members elected at-large. The county is part of the 6th and 12th Congressional Districts and is represented in the New Jersey Legislature by members from several state legislative districts.

Education

In addition to Rutgers University, Middlesex County is home to several other institutions of higher education, including Middlesex County College and the New Brunswick campus of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. The county also has a well-regarded public school system, with numerous high schools recognized for their academic excellence.

Transportation

Middlesex County is served by an extensive network of roadways, including the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway, two of the state's primary highways. Public transportation options include bus services provided by NJ Transit and rail services that connect the county to New York City and other parts of New Jersey.

Culture and Recreation

The county offers a wide range of cultural and recreational activities, with numerous parks, theaters, museums, and historic sites. The Middlesex County Parks System provides ample green space and recreational facilities, while the vibrant arts scene is anchored by institutions like the State Theatre in New Brunswick.