Ridley Township, Pennsylvania

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Ridley Township is a township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, United States. It is located in the southeastern part of the state, near the city of Philadelphia. The township is part of the Philadelphia metropolitan area.

History

Ridley Township was settled in the late 17th century and was officially established in 1687. The area was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans before European settlers arrived. The township was named after Ridley, Cheshire in England, the hometown of one of the early settlers, John Simcock.

Geography

Ridley Township covers an area of approximately 5.3 square miles. It is bordered by Springfield Township to the north, Swarthmore to the west, Ridley Park to the south, and Glenolden to the east. The township is traversed by several creeks, including the Darby Creek and the Crum Creek.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Ridley Township had a population of approximately 31,000 residents. The township is predominantly residential, with a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. The population is diverse, with a variety of ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds represented.

Education

Ridley Township is served by the Ridley School District, which includes Ridley High School, Ridley Middle School, and several elementary schools. The township is also home to several private and parochial schools.

Economy

The economy of Ridley Township is primarily based on local businesses, retail, and service industries. The township has several shopping centers, restaurants, and small businesses that cater to the needs of the local community. Additionally, its proximity to Philadelphia provides residents with access to a broader range of employment opportunities.

Transportation

Ridley Township is well-connected by several major highways, including Interstate 95 and Interstate 476. Public transportation is available through the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), which provides bus and rail services to the area.

Parks and Recreation

The township has numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the Ridley Township Marina, Ridley Creek State Park, and several community parks. These areas offer a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and sports.

Government

Ridley Township is governed by a Board of Commissioners, which consists of elected officials who serve four-year terms. The board is responsible for making decisions on local policies, budgets, and community development.

Notable People

• John Morton - Signer of the Declaration of Independence and former resident of Ridley Township.
• Other notable person

Related Pages

• Delaware County, Pennsylvania
• Philadelphia metropolitan area
• Ridley School District
• Interstate 95 (Pennsylvania)
• Interstate 476 (Pennsylvania)