Bogota

Across the Hackensack River, Bogota beckons. This New Jersey borough, not to be confused with Colombia’s capital, has a history as unique as its pronunciation (buh-GOH-ta). Established in 1894, Bogota sprung up amidst the “Boroughitis” craze, a period when Bergen County saw a flurry of new borough formations. Bogota takes its name from the Bogert family, early settlers of the area. It may also incorporate “Banta,” another prominent family name, with an “O” added for smoother pronunciation. Bogota sits on the river’s east bank, a small area of just 0.80 square miles. The CSX River Line cuts through Bogota, creating distinct eastern and western halves. The east bustles with industry and traffic. The west offers a quieter, suburban feel, punctuated by shops along West Main Street and River Road. As of the 2020 census, Bogota housed nearly 9,000 residents. Interestingly, the population saw a 7.2% increase from 2010, rebounding from a slight decline in the preceding decade. Bogota has a rich history of local politics. The 2003 mayoral race, featuring Republican Steve Lonegan, Democrat Fred Pesce, and independent Dave Musikant, became the focus of the documentary “Anytown, USA.” This film offers a glimpse into the borough’s political landscape. Bogota is also home to notable figures, including Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Eddie Adams and longtime Los Angeles Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully. From its unusual name to its divided landscape, Bogota offers a unique slice of New Jersey history.