96-426: Middletown Township is a township in northern Monmouth County , in the U.S. state of New Jersey . As of the 2020 United States census , the township was the state's 20th-most-populous municipality and the largest in the county, with a population of 67,106, an increase of 584 (+0.9%) from the 2010 census count of 66,522, which in turn reflected an increase of 195 residents (0.3%) from its population of 66,327 at
192-604: A humid subtropical climate ( Cfa ) and average monthly temperatures range from 32.6 °F (0.3 °C) in January to 75.9 °F (24.4 °C) in July. The hardiness zone is 7a or 7b depending upon elevation. The 2010 United States census counted 4,385 people, 1,870 households, and 1,186 families in the borough. The population density was 3,401.2 per square mile (1,313.2/km ). There were 2,002 housing units at an average density of 1,552.9 per square mile (599.6/km ). The racial makeup
288-582: A countywide basis are Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon (R, 2025; Ocean Township ), Sheriff Shaun Golden (R, 2025; Howell Township ) and Surrogate Rosemarie D. Peters (R, 2026; Middletown Township ). As of March 2011, there were a total of 3,238 registered voters in Atlantic Highlands, of which 842 (26.0%) were registered as Democrats , 800 (24.7%) were registered as Republicans and 1,589 (49.1%) were registered as Unaffiliated . There were seven voters registered as Libertarians or Greens . In
384-571: A countywide basis are Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon (R, 2025; Ocean Township ), Sheriff Shaun Golden (R, 2025; Howell Township ) and Surrogate Rosemarie D. Peters (R, 2026; Middletown Township ). As of March 2011, there were a total of 46,628 registered voters in Middletown Township, of which 10,222 (21.9%) were registered as Democrats , 11,674 (25.0%) were registered as Republicans and 24,701 (53.0%) were registered as Unaffiliated . There were 31 voters registered to other parties. In
480-574: A decline of 320 (−6.8%) from the 4,705 in the 2000 census . Atlantic Highlands contains Mount Mitchill, the highest point on the eastern seaboard south of Maine, rising 266 feet (81 m) above sea level. The borough's name comes from its location overlooking the Atlantic Ocean . Atlantic Highlands was incorporated as a borough by an act of the New Jersey Legislature on February 28, 1887, from portions of Middletown Township , based on
576-444: A female householder with no husband present and 36.6% were non-families. Of all households, 30.4% were made up of individuals and 11.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.34 and the average family size was 2.96. 19.6% of the population were under the age of 18, 5.5% from 18 to 24, 24.9% from 25 to 44, 34.4% from 45 to 64, and 15.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age
672-512: A fire department was organized. A number of churches saw their beginning in the 1880s: the Central Baptist, First Presbyterian, Saint Agnes Roman Catholic, First Methodist, and Saint Paul Baptist Church. Atlantic Highlands became a haven for bootleggers during the Prohibition era . Steamer service was the most important transport during the formation of the borough, and continued through
768-411: A four-year term of office. The borough council includes six members elected to serve three-year terms on a staggered basis, with two seats coming up for election each year in a three-year cycle. The borough form of government used by Atlantic Highlands is a " weak mayor / strong council" government in which council members act as the legislative body with the mayor presiding at meetings and voting only in
864-438: A household in the borough was $ 64,955, and the median income for a family was $ 79,044. Males had a median income of $ 60,857 versus $ 36,060 for females. The per capita income for the borough was $ 34,798. About 4.4% of families and 4.9% of the population were below the poverty line , including 5.0% of those under age 18 and 12.9% of those age 65 or over. Atlantic Highlands Recreation Committee runs many events in town throughout
960-563: A number of cottages and inns, such as the Blue Bay Inn. Entertainment venues include the First Avenue Playhouse, which offers dessert-and-dinner theater and puppet shows. Maritime attractions include a yacht club, marina and charter boats for fishing and touring. Other places of interest include a number of gift shops, galleries, and dining establishments. Atlantic Highlands is also home to two annual film festivals. According to
1056-416: A one-year term. Partisan elections are allowed under this law. Voters may initiate a referendum to change the membership to consist of either 3 or 5 members. While many township committees directly supervise the operation of their municipality, the revised act allows the committee to delegate all or a portion of its responsibilities to an appointed municipal administrator. A number of municipalities changed to
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#17330854747841152-534: A railroad junction in 1875, the town grew more rapidly, eventually changing from a group of small and loosely connected fishing and agricultural villages into a fast-growing suburb at the turn of the 20th century. If Middletown ever had a recognizable town center or town square, it was lost in that rapid growth soon after World War II . In May 1958, several Nike Ajax missiles exploded at Battery NY-53 in Chapel Hill, killing ten Army and civilian personnel. The accident
1248-831: A three-year cycle as part of the November general election. At an annual reorganization meeting, the Committee selects one of its members to serve as Mayor and another as Deputy Mayor, each for a one-year term. The Township Committee establishes municipal policies and programs and appropriates funds. As of 2024, members of the Middletown Township Committee are Mayor Anthony S. Perry Jr. ( R , term as mayor and on committee ends December 31, 2024), Deputy Mayor Rick W. Hibell (R, term on committee ends 2025; term as deputy mayor ends 2024), Ryan M. Clarke (R, 2026), Kimberly Kratz (R, 2026) and Kevin M. Settembrino (R, 2025). In September 2021,
1344-464: A township, as townships are equivalent to all other forms of local municipalities. Municipalities in New Jersey may be classified into one of five types , of which townships are one. Townships may retain the township form of government, or adopt one of the modern forms of government, which are not restricted to a particular type of municipality. In New Jersey, a municipality's name (such as X Township)
1440-507: A turnout of 42.9%. In the 2009 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 67.3% of the vote (16,351 ballots cast), ahead of Democrat Jon Corzine with 25.8% (6,265 votes), Independent Chris Daggett with 5.7% (1,382 votes) and other candidates with 0.8% (188 votes), among the 24,298 ballots cast by the township's 47,422 registered voters, yielding a 51.2% turnout. The Middletown Township Public School District serves students in pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade . As of
1536-405: A turnout of 46.1%. In the 2009 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 56.9% of the vote (1,020 ballots cast), ahead of Democrat Jon Corzine with 33.7% (604 votes), Independent Chris Daggett with 6.9% (124 votes) and other candidates with 1.8% (32 votes), among the 1,794 ballots cast by the borough's 3,309 registered voters, yielding a 54.2% turnout. As of May 2010 ,
1632-703: Is accessible via Route 36. Atlantic Highlands is a stop for the SeaStreak Ferry, which travels from the East 34th Street Ferry Landing and Pier 11/Wall Street (with shuttle bus service to the World Financial Center ) in Manhattan daily. NJ Transit provides local bus transportation on the 834 route. The Atlantic Highlands School District serves students in public school for kindergarten through sixth grade at Atlantic Highlands Elementary School. As of
1728-526: Is also within Middletown Township, though it is not connected to the rest of the township by land. However, one could sail along Raritan Bay from the mainland to Sandy Hook and remain within Middletown Township. The township borders the Monmouth County communities of Atlantic Highlands , Colts Neck , Fair Haven , Hazlet , Highlands , Holmdel , Keansburg , Red Bank , Rumson , Sea Bright and Tinton Falls . Poricy Creek ( Poricy Park , Oak Hill Road)
1824-752: Is governed by a Board of County Commissioners composed of five members who are elected at-large to serve three-year terms of office on a staggered basis, with either one or two seats up for election each year as part of the November general election. At an annual reorganization meeting held in the beginning of January, the board selects one of its members to serve as director and another as deputy director. As of 2024, Monmouth County's Commissioners are Director Thomas A. Arnone ( R , Neptune City , 2025), Susan M. Kiley (R, Hazlet Township , 2024), Erik Anderson (R, Shrewsbury , 2026), Nick DiRocco (R, Wall Township , 2025), and Deputy Director Ross F. Licitra (R, Marlboro Township , 2026). Constitutional officers elected on
1920-410: Is governed under the borough form of New Jersey municipal government, which is used in 218 municipalities (of the 564) statewide, making it the most common form of government in New Jersey. The governing body is comprised of the mayor and the borough council, with all positions elected at-large on a partisan basis as part of the November general election. The mayor is elected directly by the voters to
2016-556: Is locally well known for its deposits of Cretaceous marine fossils, including belemnites . Deep Cut Gardens , a public botanical garden and the former estate of mobster Vito Genovese is located in Middletown, as is Huber Woods Park , the former estate of the Huber family , Tatum Park , Thompson Park and parts of Hartshorne Woods Park . The 2010 United States census counted 66,522 people, 23,962 households, and 18,235 families in
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#17330854747842112-621: Is located about 266 feet (81 m) above sea level, at the highest natural elevation from Maine to the Yucatán, providing views of Sandy Hook , Sandy Hook Bay , Raritan Bay and the New York skyline. This 12-acre (49,000 m ) site is also home to Monmouth County's 9/11 Memorial. The town's history can be learned at both the Queen Anne-style Strauss Mansion Museum, and the local maritime museum. Lodgings can be found at
2208-598: Is located in Leonardo on Sandy Hook Bay, and is used to load ammunition onto ships on a finger pier that stretches for 2.9 miles (4.7 km), making it the world's second-longest such pier. The " Evil Clown of Middletown " is a towering sign along Route 35 painted to resemble a circus clown , that currently advertises a liquor store. The sign is a remnant of an old supermarket that used to be at that location called "Food Circus". The clown and recent successful attempts from residents to save it from demolition have been featured in
2304-466: Is not necessarily an indication of its form of government. In New Jersey, the township form of government consists of a three to five-member township committee usually elected at-large in partisan elections. At its organization meeting, held after an election, the committee selects one of its elected members to serve as mayor and preside at meetings. The other members of the township committee serve as commissioners of various township departments, overseeing
2400-499: Is part of New Jersey's 13th state legislative district. Prior to the 2010 Census, Middletown Township had been split between the 6th Congressional District and the 12th Congressional District , a change made by the New Jersey Redistricting Commission that took effect in January 2013, based on the results of the November 2012 general elections. The split that took effect in 2013 placed 30,866 residents living in
2496-585: Is represented by Frank Pallone ( D , Long Branch ). New Jersey is represented in the United States Senate by Democrats Cory Booker ( Newark , term ends 2027) and George Helmy ( Mountain Lakes , term ends 2024). For the 2024-2025 session , the 13th legislative district of the New Jersey Legislature is represented in the New Jersey Senate by Declan O'Scanlon ( R , Little Silver ) and in
2592-543: Is represented in the United States Senate by Democrats Cory Booker ( Newark , term ends 2027) and George Helmy ( Mountain Lakes , term ends 2024). For the 2024-2025 session , the 13th legislative district of the New Jersey Legislature is represented in the New Jersey Senate by Declan O'Scanlon ( R , Little Silver ) and in the General Assembly by Vicky Flynn (R, Holmdel Township ) and Gerard Scharfenberger (R, Middletown Township ). Monmouth County
2688-552: Is used by 27% of New Jersey municipalities; however, slightly over 50% of the state's population resides within them. Townships in New Jersey differ from townships elsewhere in the United States. In many states, townships can be an intermediate form of government, between county government and municipalities that are subordinate parts of the township, with different government responsibilities allocated at each level. In New Jersey, there are no subordinate municipalities located within
2784-550: The 2000 United States census there were 66,327 people, 23,236 households, and 18,100 families residing in the township. The population density was 1,613.0 inhabitants per square mile (622.8/km). There were 23,841 housing units at an average density of 579.8 per square mile (223.9/km). The racial makeup of the township was 94.71% White , 1.21% African American , 0.07% Native American , 2.59% Asian , 0.03% Pacific Islander , 0.53% from other races , and 0.86% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 3.41% of
2880-641: The 2000 census , when it was the state's 17th-most-populous municipality. Middletown is a bedroom community of New York City , located alongside of the Raritan Bay within the Raritan Valley region in the New York metropolitan area . Due to its affluence, low crime, access to cultural activities, public school system, location at the Jersey Shore and Raritan Bayshore , and central commuting location, Middletown
2976-406: The 2012 presidential election , Democrat Barack Obama received 50.2% of the vote (1,167 cast), ahead of Republican Mitt Romney with 48.3% (1,124 votes), and other candidates with 1.5% (35 votes), among the 2,342 ballots cast by the borough's 3,329 registered voters (16 ballots were spoiled ), for a turnout of 70.4%. In the 2008 presidential election , Republican John McCain received 49.3% of
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3072-413: The 2012 presidential election , Republican Mitt Romney received 58.2% of the vote (18,426 cast), ahead of Democrat Barack Obama with 40.4% (12,801 votes), and other candidates with 1.4% (448 votes), among the 37,742 ballots cast by the township's 48,011 registered voters (6,067 ballots were spoiled ), for a turnout of 78.6%. In the 2008 presidential election , Republican John McCain received 57.6% of
3168-566: The American Revolutionary War , Middletown and much of the rest of Eastern Monmouth County was held by the British. After the Battle of Monmouth , the British retreat from Freehold Township carried them down King's Highway through Middletown to their embarkation points at Sandy Hook in the bay, heading back to New York City. Middletown Township was originally formed on October 31, 1693, and
3264-551: The Battle of Monmouth . During the late 1800s, the many farms were subdivided by resort developers, church groups and builders who created the Victorian core of the borough, attracting thousands of visitors and year-round residents. In 1879, a surveyor was engaged to lay roads and lots for a permanent community. The Atlantic Highlands Association was formed by prominent members of the Methodist Church . This organization developed
3360-691: The Dutch surrender of the New Netherland colony at the onset of the Second Anglo-Dutch War in 1664. The most distinct preserved structures in this village are the three historic churches along Kings Highway, including The Old First Church (founded in 1688), Christ Church (founded in 1702, which is one of the oldest Episcopal parishes in New Jersey), and The Middletown Reformed Church (which dates from 1836). Township (New Jersey) A township , in
3456-440: The General Assembly by Vicky Flynn (R, Holmdel Township ) and Gerard Scharfenberger (R, Middletown Township ). Monmouth County is governed by a Board of County Commissioners composed of five members who are elected at-large to serve three-year terms of office on a staggered basis, with either one or two seats up for election each year as part of the November general election. At an annual reorganization meeting held in
3552-862: The Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools , located in Lincroft. Mater Dei High School was a four-year Catholic coeducational high school located in the New Monmouth section and operated under the supervision of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Trenton before closing in 2022. Saint Mary School (for Pre-K–8, founded in 1953) in New Monmouth and Saint Leo the Great School (a National Blue Ribbon School founded in 1960) in Lincroft both operate as part of
3648-573: The Monmouth County Master Plan , Atlantic Highlands has been designated as an Arts, Cultural, and Entertainment (ACE) Hub, which is defined as municipalities that have a high concentration of arts and cultural activities to serve as a destination for both visitors and locals, usually including an active nightlife scene in proximity to said cultural activities. Only eight towns in Monmouth County share this designation, with two additional towns designated as upcoming ACE hubs. Atlantic Highlands
3744-448: The New Jersey Legislature ; The charter preserves many aspects of the township form of government. The township is one of 11 (of the 564) municipalities statewide governed under a special charter. The township's governing body is comprised of the five-member Township Committee, whose members are elected at-large in partisan elections to three-year terms on a staggered basis, with either one or two seats coming up for election each year in
3840-485: The Roman Catholic Diocese of Trenton . Oak Hill Academy is an independent school for Pre-K–8 in Lincroft, that was founded in 1981. The Middletown Village Historic District is a 80-acre (32 ha) historic district located on both sides of Kings Highway, south and west of Route 35 . It features numerous structures from the early colonial period, when settlers primarily of English descent from Long Island and New England were first immigrating to Middletown after
3936-408: The 1940s. In the 1890s, rail service came to Atlantic Highlands. This opened up Highlands and points south to vacationers. The 1920s saw 26 passenger trains daily passing through the borough. The Central Railroad of New Jersey built a major pier at the end of First Avenue. Several trains at a time could continue to the end of the pier to offload steamboat passengers. From the 1910s through the 1940s,
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4032-408: The 2,663 ballots cast by the borough's 3,464 registered voters, for a turnout percentage of 76.9. In the 2013 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 64.5% of the vote (989 cast), ahead of Democrat Barbara Buono with 33.2% (509 votes), and other candidates with 2.3% (36 votes), among the 1,547 ballots cast by the borough's 3,357 registered voters (13 ballots were spoiled), for
4128-466: The 2021–22 school year, the district, comprised of 16 schools, had an enrollment of 9,150 students and 794.3 classroom teachers (on an FTE basis), for a student–teacher ratio of 11.5:1. The district consists of twelve K–5 elementary schools, three middle schools for grades 6–8, and two four-year high schools. Four elementary schools feed into each of the three middle schools. The facilities vary in age, architecture, size, and student population. Schools in
4224-420: The 35,403 ballots cast by the township's 46,022 registered voters, for a turnout percentage of 76.9. In the 2013 gubernatorial election , Republican Chris Christie received 74.5% of the vote (15,145 cast), ahead of Democrat Barbara Buono with 23.8% (4,834 votes), and other candidates with 1.7% (337 votes), among the 20,555 ballots cast by the township's 47,933 registered voters (239 ballots were spoiled), for
4320-474: The Borough Council are Council President Brian Dougherty (D, 2024), Vito Colasurdo (D, 2025), Jon Crowley (D, 2024), Eileen Cusack (D, 2025), Alyson Forbes (D, 2026) and James Murphy ( R , 2024). Atlantic Highlands is located in the 6th Congressional district and is part of New Jersey's 13th state legislative district. For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 6th congressional district
4416-486: The Raritan Bay. Major construction occurred from the 1880s through 1900. It included hotels, cottages, rooming houses, and private homes. A pier was built extending well into the bay to accommodate steamboats from New York City. The next twenty years saw rapid development within the community. A water and sewer system was constructed, cottages were erected, and the road system was completed. During this period of development
4512-598: The Township Committee selected Kimberly Kratz from a list of three candidates nominated by the Republican municipal committee to fill the seat expiring in December 2023 that had been held by Patricia A. Snell until she resigned from office the previous month. Kratz served on an interim basis until the November 2021 general election, when she was chosen by the voters to serve the balance of the term of office. In February 2018,
4608-481: The Township Committee selected Rick Hibell to fill the seat expiring in December 2019 that was vacated by Gerard Scharfenberger after he resigned and took office on the Monmouth County Board of Chosen Freeholders ; Hibell served on an interim basis until the November 2018 general election, when voters elected him to fill the balance of the term of office. In November 2017, the committee chose Anthony Perry,
4704-555: The Township type, or the Township form of government, between 1979 and 1982. A federal law, The State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972 provided funding to the states to be divided between state and municipal governments. In 1981, states were removed from the program and the law was amended to provide direct grants to the most popular form of local government in the United States - townships. In Essex County alone, 11 municipal governments changed their form or name to take advantage of
4800-467: The area when the first known European landing in what would become Middletown Township occurred in 1609. Sea captain and explorer Henry Hudson , in search of the mythical Northwest Passage in the service of the Dutch West India Company , anchored along the shores of Sandy Hook Bay in 1609, describing the area "a very good land to fall in with and a pleasant land to see." While a patroonship
4896-410: The average family size was 3.27. In the township the population was spread out, with 26.3% under the age of 18, 6.4% from 18 to 24, 28.6% from 25 to 44, 25.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 91.0 males. The median income for a household in the township
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#17330854747844992-461: The beginning of January, the board selects one of its members to serve as director and another as deputy director. As of 2024 , Monmouth County's Commissioners are Director Thomas A. Arnone ( R , Neptune City , 2025), Susan M. Kiley (R, Hazlet Township , 2024), Erik Anderson (R, Shrewsbury , 2026), Nick DiRocco (R, Wall Township , 2025), and Deputy Director Ross F. Licitra (R, Marlboro Township , 2026). Constitutional officers elected on
5088-498: The borough had a total area of 4.56 square miles (11.82 km ), including 1.26 square miles (3.27 km ) of land and 3.30 square miles (8.54 km ) of water (72.35%). The township borders the Monmouth County communities of Highlands and Middletown Township . Unincorporated communities , localities and place names located partially or completely within the borough include Brevent Park, Hillside, Hilton , Hilton Park, Navesink and Stone Church . Atlantic Highlands has
5184-541: The borough had a total of 24.59 miles (39.57 km) of roadways, of which 21.06 miles (33.89 km) were maintained by the municipality, 2.63 miles (4.23 km) by Monmouth County and 0.90 miles (1.45 km) by the New Jersey Department of Transportation . New Jersey Route 36 is the main highway running through Atlantic Highlands. The closest limited-access road is the Garden State Parkway , which
5280-510: The borough was $ 41,785 (+/− $ 4,864). About 2.5% of families and 5.3% of the population were below the poverty line , including 6.9% of those under age 18 and 2.0% of those age 65 or over. As of the 2000 United States census there were 4,705 people, 1,969 households, and 1,258 families residing in the borough. The population density was 3,805.4 inhabitants per square mile (1,469.3/km ). There were 2,056 housing units at an average density of 1,662.9 per square mile (642.0/km ). The racial makeup of
5376-545: The borough was 94.37% White , 2.30% African American , 0.06% Native American , 1.23% Asian , 1.02% from other races , and 1.02% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.51% of the population. There were 1,969 households, out of which 26.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 9.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.1% were non-families. 29.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.4% had someone living alone who
5472-472: The community of Atlantic Highlands. Individuals and groups came from New York City and the surrounding vicinity to camp along the water in tent colonies. An outdoor amphitheater was created with a large seating capacity and outstanding acoustics. An indoor auditorium was built, which was utilized for entertaining visitors at the camp meetings. In 1887, Atlantic Highlands was incorporated as a borough, containing 1.2 square miles (3.1 km ) of land bordering on
5568-504: The context of New Jersey local government , refers to one of five types and one of eleven forms of municipal government . As a political entity, a township in New Jersey is a full-fledged municipality, on par with any town , city , borough , or village . They collect property taxes and provide services such as maintaining roads, garbage collection, water, sewer, schools, police and fire protection. The Township form of local government
5664-596: The county's 2016 Master Plan. The town overlooks where the Atlantic Ocean and Raritan Bay meet at Sandy Hook , and its hills mark the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. south of Maine. For hundreds of years, the original inhabitants were the Lenape , who lived in and along the cliffs and creeks of Atlantic Highlands. The Lenape traded with the Europeans and sold a group of English settlers an area that covered
5760-931: The district (with 2021-22 enrollment data from the National Center for Education Statistics ) are Bayview Elementary School (341 students in grades K-5), Fairview Elementary School (304; PreK-5), Harmony Elementary School (471; PreK-5), Leonardo Elementary School (258; K-5), Lincroft Elementary School (452; K-5), Middletown Village Elementary School (425; K-5), Navesink Elementary School (194; K-5), New Monmouth Elementary School (486; PreK-5), Nut Swamp Elementary School (519; K-5), Ocean Avenue Elementary School (292; K-5), River Plaza Elementary School (260; K-5), Bayshore Middle School (616; 6–8), Thompson Middle School (917; 6–8), Thorne Middle School (625; 6–8), Middletown High School North (1,399; 9–12) and Middletown High School South (1,544; 9–12). Middletown also hosts two public magnet schools, High Technology High School , on
5856-522: The entire peninsula that was named Portland Poynt. The area was laid out with 10 lots in 1667, making them the first European residents of present-day Atlantic Highlands. Colonists convened the first Assembly of New Jersey in 1667 in what is now Atlantic Highlands. During Revolutionary War years, loyalists to the British crown and patriots of the new America clashed in repeated raids and counterattacks across these lands. Retreating English troops passed through after their defeat in 1778 by George Washington at
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#17330854747845952-421: The event of a tie. The mayor can veto ordinances subject to an override by a two-thirds majority vote of the council. The mayor makes committee and liaison assignments for council members, and most appointments are made by the mayor with the advice and consent of the council. As of 2024 , the mayor of Atlantic Highlands is Democrat Lori Hohenleitner, whose term of office ends December 31, 2027. Members of
6048-613: The first settlers, hiding in a tree from hostile Native Americans. Shortly after the Dutch surrender of the New Netherland to the English in 1664 a large tract of land known as the Navesink Patent or Monmouth Tract was granted to Baptist and Quaker settlers from Long Island , Rhode Island , and Massachusetts . In 1693 the triangular tract became three townships – Middletown Township, Shrewsbury Township and Freehold Township . During
6144-526: The headwaters to Many Mind Creek. Many groups and local residents volunteer their time to maintain the woods. Monmouth County operates two parks in the town, Henry Hudson Trail and Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook. Henry Hudson Trail runs 9 miles (14 km) from the Aberdeen/Keyport border at the intersection of Lloyd Road and Clark Street to the Atlantic Highlands border at Avenue D, and has been expanded to connect to Highlands. Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook
6240-472: The mayor's office each year, while others elect the same mayor for 2–3 consecutive years. Out of the 240 townships in the state, the township form of government is used by 140. On road signs, township is often abbreviated TWP or Twp . Some official documents abbreviate it as "Twsp." Historically, a variety of legislation has been passed by the state legislature that has defined and refined the township form of municipal government: The Township Act of 1798
6336-604: The pages of Weird NJ magazine, on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno , and in the Kevin Smith -directed film Clerks II . The Indian Trails 15K road race is held each year in April to benefit the Monmouth Conservation Foundation and includes a 5K walk/run event for fun. The race, run on a combination on paved and dirt roads, includes many relatively steep hills and has been described as "the most challenging race in
6432-431: The population were under the age of 18, 7.0% from 18 to 24, 22.7% from 25 to 44, 31.9% from 45 to 64, and 14.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42.5 years. For every 100 females, the population had 93.7 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older there were 91.1 males. The Census Bureau's 2006–2010 American Community Survey showed that (in 2010 inflation-adjusted dollars) median household income
6528-417: The population. Of the 23,962 households, 34.5% had children under the age of 18; 63.5% were married couples living together; 9.3% had a female householder with no husband present and 23.9% were non-families. Of all households, 20.3% were made up of individuals and 10.5% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.77 and the average family size was 3.22. 24.4% of
6624-407: The population. There were 23,236 households, out of which 37.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.3% were married couples living together, 7.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.1% were non-families. 18.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.84 and
6720-519: The program. There are a total of 240 townships in the state, including: Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey Atlantic Highlands is a borough in Monmouth County in the U.S. state of New Jersey , in the Bayshore Region . As of the 2020 United States census , the borough's population was 4,414, an increase of 29 (+0.7%) from the 2010 census count of 4,385, which in turn reflected
6816-551: The property of Brookdale Community College , located in the Lincroft section of town, and the Marine Academy of Science and Technology located on Sandy Hook , which are part of the Monmouth County Vocational School District . Middletown Township is home to one private high school, Christian Brothers Academy which is an all-boys College preparatory school with a focus on Christian education run by
6912-590: The results of a referendum held that day. The borough was reincorporated on September 1, 1891. Atlantic Highlands was part of the Bayshore Regional Strategic Plan , an effort by nine municipalities in northern Monmouth County to reinvigorate the area's economy by emphasizing the traditional downtowns, dense residential neighborhoods, maritime history, and the natural beauty of the Raritan Bayshore coastline. The plan has since been integrated into
7008-469: The son-in-law of then-Mayor Gerry Scharfenberger, from three candidates nominated by the Republican municipal committee to fill the seat expiring in December 2018 that had been vacated by Stephen G. Massell the previous month when he resigned from office to accept a position on the Monmouth County Tax Board. In October 2006, Middletown councilman and former four-term mayor Raymond J. O'Grady (R)
7104-827: The state". The Middletown Township Historical Society is a non-profit formed in 1968 to preserve and promote the history of Middletown. According to the United States Census Bureau , the township had a total area of 58.72 square miles (152.09 km), including 40.95 square miles (106.06 km) of land and 17.78 square miles (46.04 km) of water (30.27%). Belford (2010 Census population of 1,768), Fairview (3,806), Leonardo (2,757), Lincroft (6,135), Navesink (2,020), North Middletown (3,295) and Port Monmouth (3,818) are all census-designated places and unincorporated communities located within Middletown Township. Other unincorporated communities, localities and place names located partially or completely within
7200-579: The steamers Sandy Hook and the Monmouth navigated the waters bringing businessmen and vacationers to Atlantic Highlands. The Manhattan skyline can be seen from the borough's ridges and its shoreline. Pleasure, fishing and commuter boats sail from its harbor. The municipal harbor was built from 1938 through 1940 with municipal, state, and federal funds. It is the largest on the East Coast, home to 715 craft, including high-speed ferry service to New York City, which
7296-413: The term "municipality" and recognized five types of government: borough , township, city , town , and village and granted each equal legal standing. The Township Act of 1989 simplified the much-amended Act of 1899. It retains a three or five member township committee serving staggered terms, whose members are generally elected at-large. The committee elects a mayor from among its members to serve
7392-520: The township for a rent of at least five dollars a year. A group of five freeholders was elected to one-year terms on the Township Committee, which was responsible to oversee the expenditure of revenue in between town meetings. The Township Act of 1899 abolished the town meeting and strengthened the role of the Township Committee, which was initially set at three and amended to allow for expansion to five members. Members were elected for staggered three-year terms. The Home Rule Act of 1917 legally defined
7488-438: The township include Browns Dock, Chapel Hill , East Keansburg , Everett, Fort Hancock, Harmony, Headdons Corner, Hendrickson Corners, Highland Park, Highlands Beach, Highlands of Navesink, Holland, Leonardville, Locust , Locust Point, Monmouth Hills, New Monmouth , Normandie, Oak Hill, Philips Mills, Red Hill, River Plaza , Stone Church , Tiltons Corner, Town Brook, Waterwitch Park and Wilmont Park. The Sandy Hook peninsula
7584-453: The township's southeast in the 4th District, while 35,656 residents in the northern and eastern portions of the township were placed in the 6th District. For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 4th congressional district is represented by Chris Smith ( R , Manchester Township ). For the 118th United States Congress , New Jersey's 6th congressional district is represented by Frank Pallone ( D , Long Branch ). New Jersey
7680-474: The township. The population density was 1,622.9 per square mile (626.6/km). There were 24,959 housing units at an average density of 608.9 per square mile (235.1/km). The racial makeup was 93.89% (62,456) White , 1.31% (869) Black or African American , 0.10% (67) Native American , 2.60% (1,730) Asian , 0.01% (8) Pacific Islander , 0.81% (537) from other races , and 1.29% (855) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino people of any race were 5.37% (3,569) of
7776-438: The vote (1,287 cast), ahead of Democrat Barack Obama with 47.5% (1,242 votes) and other candidates with 1.8% (48 votes), among the 2,612 ballots cast by the borough's 3,454 registered voters, for a turnout of 75.6%. In the 2004 presidential election , Republican George W. Bush received 50.7% of the vote (1,350 ballots cast), outpolling Democrat John Kerry with 46.3% (1,232 votes) and other candidates with 0.9% (30 votes), among
7872-446: The vote (20,997 cast), ahead of Democrat Barack Obama with 41.3% (15,058 votes) and other candidates with 1.1% (404 votes), among the 36,887 ballots cast by the township's 48,174 registered voters, for a turnout of 76.6%. In the 2004 presidential election , Republican George W. Bush received 60.2% of the vote (21,317 ballots cast), outpolling Democrat John Kerry with 38.6% (13,651 votes) and other candidates with 0.7% (301 votes), among
7968-439: The work of those areas along with overall legislative issues. Some mayors in this form of government also oversee specific departments. The mayor in this form of government is primarily ceremonial and has the same power as other township committee members. The mayor does hold the powers vested in all mayors under state law One township committee member is elected deputy mayor each year. Some towns with this form of government rotate
8064-437: The year including a Summer Concert Series in the harbor, youth programs such as basketball in the winter and soccer in the fall. Atlantic Highlands has a large park system with eight borough-owned parks and two county operated parks. One of larger parks is Lenape Woods. It is nestled among tall trees and steep slopes, Lenape Woods offers approximately 51 acres (210,000 m ) of natural woodlands and freshwater wetlands that are
8160-418: Was $ 75,566, and the median income for a family was $ 86,124. Males had a median income of $ 60,755 versus $ 36,229 for females. The per capita income for the township was $ 34,196. About 1.9% of families and 3.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.2% of those under age 18 and 5.7% of those age 105 or over. The Township Committee operates under a special charter approved on June 23, 1971, by
8256-420: Was $ 96,190 (with a margin of error of +/− $ 2,818) and the median family income was $ 110,944 (+/− $ 3,794). Males had a median income of $ 78,739 (+/− $ 3,585) versus $ 52,752 (+/− $ 2,573) for females. The per capita income for the township was $ 42,792 (+/− $ 1,706). About 1.7% of families and 3.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 2.9% of those under age 18 and 5.1% of those age 65 or over. As of
8352-499: Was 45.0 years. For every 100 females, the population had 95.2 males. For every 100 females ages 18 and older there were 94.2 males. The Census Bureau's 2006–2010 American Community Survey showed that (in 2010 inflation-adjusted dollars) median household income was $ 82,127 (with a margin of error of +/− $ 10,511) and the median family income was $ 100,117 (+/− $ 16,562). Males had a median income of $ 73,021 (+/− $ 18,808) versus $ 51,207 (+/− $ 6,155) for females. The per capita income for
8448-464: Was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.39 and the average family size was 3.00. In the borough the age distribution of the population shows 21.4% under the age of 18, 6.2% from 18 to 24, 31.8% from 25 to 44, 26.5% from 45 to 64, and 14.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.3 males. The median income for
8544-407: Was 93.18% (4,086) White , 1.44% (63) Black or African American , 0.25% (11) Native American , 2.17% (95) Asian , 0.00% (0) Pacific Islander , 1.25% (55) from other races , and 1.71% (75) from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 5.13% (225) of the population. Of the 1,870 households, 25.5% had children under the age of 18; 51.9% were married couples living together; 8.6% had
8640-454: Was granted by the company in 1651 the land wasn't officially settled. Today's Shoal Harbor Museum and Old Spy House includes portions of a house constructed by Thomas Whitlock, one of the area's first European settlers (and a Reformed Baptist at Middletown) who arrived here as early as 1664, around the time of the English takeover of New Netherland as a prelude of the Second Anglo-Dutch War . Long-standing tradition had Penelope Stout , one of
8736-459: Was incorporated as a township by the Township Act of 1798 of the New Jersey Legislature on February 21, 1798. Portions of the township were taken to form Atlantic Township (February 8, 1847, now Colts Neck Township ), Raritan Township (February 25, 1848, now Hazlet ), Atlantic Highlands (February 28, 1887), Highlands (March 22, 1900) and Keansburg (March 22, 1917). Upon the completion of
8832-585: Was introduced in 1986. In 1966, the Central Railroad of New Jersey pier was destroyed by fire. Its rail route is now used by the Henry Hudson Trail . The bungalows on the East Side of the borough, which in the 1920s were summer bungalows, are now occupied year-round. Portland Pointe, a five-story senior citizens building, provides housing for the elderly. According to the United States Census Bureau ,
8928-615: Was one of the worst missile-related disasters of the Cold War. During the September 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, Middletown lost 37 of its residents at the World Trade Center , which was the second-most 9/11 deaths of any municipality, behind New York City itself. The World Trade Center Memorial Gardens were opened to the public on September 11, 2003, the second anniversary of the attacks. The Waterfront site of Naval Weapons Station Earle
9024-648: Was ranked in 2006, 2008, 2010, and 2014 in the Top 100 in CNNMoney.com 's Best Places to Live. Time magazine listed Middletown on its list of "Best Places to Live 2014". In 2016, SafeWise named Middletown Township as the fifth-safest city in America to raise a child; the township was the highest ranked of the 12 communities in New Jersey included on the list. Small communities of the Lenape Navesink tribe were common throughout
9120-410: Was sentenced to 43 months in federal prison on bribery and extortion charges arising from his involvement in a federal sting operation known as Operation Bid Rig targeting political corruption in New Jersey. O'Grady committed to obtain no-bid contracts after he had accepted bribes from contractors in exchange for the work. Middletown Township is split between the 4th and 6th Congressional Districts and
9216-454: Was the first state legislation to incorporate municipalities. The government defined was a form of direct democracy , similar to the New England town meeting , in which the vote was available to all white males, at least 21 years old, who were citizens of New Jersey, and residents of the township for at least six months; and who paid taxes in the township, or who owned land, or rented a home in
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