Remember the late 19th century. Wood-Ridge was undergoing a transformation. This borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, wasn’t always Wood-Ridge.
Wood-Ridge was incorporated on December 6, 1894. It was carved from portions of Bergen Township. This happened after a referendum the day before. The late 1800s saw a wave of borough formations in Bergen County. Historians call it “Boroughitis.” In 1894 alone, 26 boroughs emerged. Wood-Ridge was one of them.
Before it was its own borough, the area relied on Carlstadt for fire protection. Carlstadt’s firehouse on Friedrich Strasse served the area. That street is now Third Street. By 1890, the growing number of homes in the area necessitated a change. The Hook & Ladder Company No. 2 of the Carlstadt Fire Department was formed. They were stationed on Humboldt Street. This company provided fire protection to the developing area.
After Wood-Ridge became a borough, it inherited the Carlstadt Fire Department Hook & Ladder Co. No. 2. This company continued to serve Wood-Ridge until July 19, 1897. That’s when the Wood-Ridge Fire Department was officially organized. The borough paid fifty dollars for the building on Humboldt St. It also acquired the 1895 hook and ladder and its buckets.
Wood-Ridge covers a small area. It is just over one square mile. It is a dense suburban environment. Wood-Ridge is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. The borough earns high marks for safety, nightlife and outdoor activities.
As of the 2020 Census, Wood-Ridge had a population of 10,137. This was a significant increase from previous years. The borough continues to be a diverse community. Wood-Ridge offers a blend of suburban living with access to urban amenities.
Many notable individuals have called Wood-Ridge home. This includes musicians, actors, politicians and athletes. Frankie Muniz spent his childhood in Wood-Ridge. Paul Sarlo serves as both a State Senator and the Mayor of Wood-Ridge.
Today Wood-Ridge continues to evolve. It balances its rich history with modern growth. The borough stands as a testament to community spirit. It shows the enduring appeal of suburban life in New Jersey.