JoAnna and Gail's Real Estate Thoughts

One of the most popular questions I get from buyers looking to make a move to the Manalapan/Marlboro area is "how are the schools?"  I have two children who are currently enrolled in the Manalapan Elementary and Monmouth County Vocational school systems.  To date, the school districts I've experienced have not let me down and in fact, have far exceeded my expectations. 

When my daughter was graduating middle school, I couldn't believe the variety of choices she had for where to go to high school.  There truly is "something for everyone."  Admission to some programs is based on academic  testing/grades and others could be based on a written essay, interview or even an audition!  Some programs have pre-requisite courses that need to be taken in middle school.  Parents should familiarize yourself with these programs when their children are in 7th grade so you can make the best choices when considering their classes for 8th grade.

Alternatively, children can go to the schools they are zoned for based on their mailing address.  Keep in mind, the town you live in is not necessarily the high school for which you are zoned!!  There are parts of Manalapan Township where the children go to Freehold Township High School and parts of Marlboro and Freehold Township where the kids will go to Colts Neck High School!  Here is a link to a guide for streets that are not zoned for their hometown high schools.

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The Freehold Regional High School District  is a public regional school district serving students in grades 9-12 from eight communities in western Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States. The district, consisting of six high schools, is the largest regional high school district in the state of New Jersey. The district serves students from Colts Neck Township, Englishtown, Farmingdale, Freehold Borough, Freehold Township, Howell Township, Manalapan Township and Marlboro Township.

 

The curriculum at each of the high schools is the same for all academic subjects. A high priority is placed on student performance and staff accountability. More than 87 percent of the students pursue higher education, including the most prestigious colleges in the nation. At all of the high schools, SAT scores consistently exceed state and national averages, and HSPA scores at all schools are well above state averages.

 

Students living within zone of The Freehold Regional High School District are offered more than just the opportunity for an award winning high school education.  Students are given the option to participate in one of the specialized Learning Centers, Academies or perhaps attend one of the career oriented schools of the award winning Monmouth County Vocational School District.  Note:   The Freehold Regional High School District provides bussing for all Academy, Learning Center and Vocational School District students.

 

 

 

Learning Centers are four-year programs of academic study offered to a selected group of highly motivated students who have demonstrated interests and abilities in particular fields of study. Students and faculty of a particular program join together to form a unique learning community located within the comprehensive high school setting. All Learning Centers include in depth study of targeted courses on an advanced level, with many courses meeting the requirements of Advanced Placement or college level work. Learning Center courses fall under traditional academic disciplines such as science, math, social studies, and language. However the four-year sequence of course work combines to make an integrated and interdisciplinary academic experience for students. The centers address the core skills, knowledge and values that are essential to success in high school and in preparation for acceptance to a competitive four-year college or university.  All 8th grade students from a sending high school in our district are eligible to apply. Click the program name for a short video describing the program.

 

 

Business Administration  -  Marlboro High School

The Business Administration Learning Center, offers a four-year program to talented, high achieving students who wish to pursue their interests in business administration and management. Courses include Economic Geography, Business Law, American Economic History I & II, AP Economics, Business Computer Systems, Business Principles & Applications, Accounting, and an Entrepreneurship Seminar. Classroom activities are augmented with guest lectures, field experiences, and close affiliations with business and industry. Opportunities for counseling and career orientation to colleges and universities are available.  A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade.

 

Humanities  -  Howell High School

The Scholars' Center for the Humanities, offers a four-year program that assists highly talented and motivated students to develop advanced research skills, superior analytical and critical thinking skills, and sophisticated written and verbal communication skills while studying the many facets of American culture.  Students experience an intensive, interdisciplinary approach to the liberal arts through course work in literature, arts, history, cultures, philosophy, and research strategies.

Contemporary Global Issues  -  Freehold Township High School

The focus of this program is an intensive study of global regions, international challenges, cultures, economies and governments.  Students with an interest in international development, diplomacy and world order are challenged with an accelerated and unique curriculum within the high school experience.  A comprehensive language program enables students to gain proficiency in a world language.  Seniors in the program participate in a culminating independent research project exploring an international problem and presenting their findings and recommendations at the Contemporary Global Issues Research Symposium.

 

Medical Sciences  -  Freehold High School

The Medical Sciences Learning Center, offers a four-year program for students interested in the medical and natural sciences. Students work and study in a creative environment, invigorated by contact with specialists in the science and health care fields. Advanced program curricula includes Lab Biology, Math, Research, Statistics, Introduction to Computers, Chemistry; Biochemistry/ Cell Physiology, Calculus, Anatomy/Physiology, and Human Genetics. The program enables students to develop research and process skills, which serve as an excellent preparation for future training in the health science. Articulation with medical and research facilities prepare students for an extensive junior year research project. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8th grade.

 

Science and Engineering  -  Manalapan High School

Science and Engineering offers a 4-year program of interdisciplinary studies for gifted students interested in pursuing careers in mathematics, engineering, or the physical sciences.  Working with specialists who promote creativity, students receive an accelerated preparation in science, math, computer science, and electronics. The program includes courses in Biology, Chemistry, Physics C&C E/M, Statistics, Calculus BC, Multi Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra, Computer Science., Algebra II, Geometry, Pre-Calculus, and Electronics. The program of study culminates in a full year of research in 12th grade that focuses on specific areas of interest, e.g.: robotics; engineering design; laser technology; chaos theory; and artificial intelligence. A prerequisite for program admission is satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the 8^th grade

 

Law and Public Service  -  Colts Neck High School

The Center for Law and Public Service, is a four-year program for students with demonstrated interests and abilities in history, politics, government, law, volunteerism and leadership. Targeted skills for development include problem solving, critical thinking and reading, written and oral communication, research, and organization. The values of citizenship, justice, and service serve as the foundation for academic study. Students study history as it relates to the development of the US and the evolution of world societies and governments, as well as political thought, ethical philosophy, and leadership theory. Special attention is given to NJ history and civic affairs. Skills and knowledge are enhanced by active experiences in volunteerism and public service on the school, local, state and national levels. Career opportunities are explored during externships in government offices, volunteer agencies, police departments, and emergency and fire services. 

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To help you decide if a Learning Center is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.   Your responses will help you to decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my grades in the subjects that are the academic focus of the learning center demonstrate that I am ready to accept the challenge of the program?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance the demands of accelerated classes while still participating in sports, clubs, hobbies and other extra-curricular activities?

Do my personal interests match the focus of the learning center?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to Business Administration, Science and Engineering, and the Medical Science Learning Centers?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Have my scores on standardized tests been strong?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

 

 

 

 Academy programs are four-year programs of specialized coursework and experiences for students who have a particular career interest. The programs integrate career and technical courses in addition to the traditional academic curriculum. Students who attend our academies benefit from being part of a career-oriented learning community while at the same time being a fully participating student within a comprehensive high school. The academy environment encourages students to engage in meaningful learning activities that are relevant to real-world settings. Students who attend academies are prepared to directly enter the work force where they can immediately use the knowledge and skills; attend a post-secondary technical program; or attend a two or four year college.

 

 

Animal and Botanical Science  - Freehold Township High School

The Animal and Botanical Academy is a four-year program covering topics such as floral and landscape design, plant and animal science, greenhouse production, food science, and natural resources management. The program consists of three integral parts: classroom instruction, supervised Agricultural Education (SAE), and participation in National Organization for Agriculture Education, (FFA). Participation in these organizations provides students with an opportunity to build leadership skills, serve the community, and explore career opportunities. An articulation agreement with Mercer County Community College allows students to earn college credits for courses completed while attending the Animal and Botanical Program.

 

Computer Science -  Freehold High School

The Computer Science Academy is designed for students interested in exploring the fields of Computer Science or Computer Engineering. The first two years emphasize the basic components of Computer Science and various programming languages. Specialized math courses, combining Geometry, Algebra and Discrete Math, are integrated into the curriculum. Junior/senior classes are equivalent to second and third year computer science courses at the college level. A prerequisite for program admission is enrollment in and the satisfactory completion of Algebra I in the eighth grade with a "B" or better average.

 

Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management -  Freehold High School

The Culinary Arts/Hospitality Management Academy is a four-year career exploration program that prepares students for employment in the hospitality industry, as well as admission to college or post-secondary culinary schools. Courses include specialized math and science and "hands-on" work experience in menu planning and food preparation. Students gain real work experience through the operation of the 5-Star Cafe - a fully licensed restaurant in Freehold High School. This unique program, designed for students with a wide range of ability levels, offers an opportunity to be successful in both academic and skill performance components

 

Fine and Performing Arts – Howell High School

The Fine and Performing Arts Learning Center, located at Howell High School, provides an opportunity for highly motivated students to channel and further develop their interests and talents in the arts. The center prepares students for further training and/or performance at colleges/ conservatories by developing self-discipline, analytical/ critical thinking skills, and an appreciation for all the arts. A four- year sequence of classes is offered in the following majors: Acting, Dance, Entertainment Technology-Video, and Entertainment Technology-Music. Class work is augmented with field trips, lectures, and master classes offered by visiting artists. Students participate in a variety of creative and performance opportunities.

 

Navy JROTC Character and Leadership Development – Colts Neck High School

 This four year course of study encompasses three main subject areas: Leadership, Naval Science, and Physical Training. The Leadership curriculum develops skills in study, time management, and personal leadership, as well as self-discipline and self-reliance. The roles and capabilities of the U.S. Armed Forces, particularly sea power, shipboard life, national security and naval history are reviewed. Cadets learn military customs, courtesies, drills, ceremonies and respect for the flag, and develop a sense of patriotism through community and school service. The leadership value of fitness is reinforced with weekly physical training. This is a dynamic opportunity for students to develop leadership qualities in a nurturing and exciting environment.

 

Law Enforcement and Public Safety (LEPS) – Manalapan High School

This program is a highly focused program for students with specific interests in law enforcement, fire fighting, homeland security and emergency preparation and response. Course study includes criminal justice, civics, law enforcement, physical training, forensic and fire science. Students will receive training in various public safety areas. Skills and knowledge are further enhanced by active participation in volunteer programs and frequent articulation with local police and volunteer agencies.

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To help you decide if an Academy is right for you, ask yourself the following questions.  Your responses will help you decide whether or not you are eligible to apply.

Do my personal and career interests match the focus of the academy?

Have I participated in classes, after school activities, hobbies or other activities that demonstrate that I have had some experience with the focus of the academy?

Have I demonstrated that I can balance my interests and my required school work and be successful at both?

Am I taking the prerequisite course, Algebra I, for application to the Computer Science Academy?

Can I identify two teachers that will provide me with an excellent recommendation for these programs?

Can I identify one other professional who has knowledge of my performing arts talent and who will provide me with an excellent recommendation for FPAA and for JROTC?

Am I willing to participate in an audition for FPAA and/or an interview for JROTC?

Am I willing to attend the high school where this program is located?

 

 

 

 

 

The Monmouth County Vocational School District Academies are a collection of theme-based public schools.  These competitive admission academies are open to all 9th grade students in Monmouth County.  The MCVSD prepares students for an evolving workplace and further education through achievement of the New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards at all grade levels in specialized academic, career and technical programs and lifelong learning opportunities. 

 

 

 Academy of Allied Health & Science (AAHS)

The Academy of Allied Health and Science prepares and motivates students to pursue further education towards a career in the medical sciences through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships, inspiring students to serve society with compassion, skill and vision.

This specialized high school Is located in Neptune Township, in close proximity to Jersey Shore Medical Center and other Health Care facilities.  AAHS provides a Continuous Program of College Preparatory Course work for students who are interested in exploring careers in the health and medical sciences with a heavy emphasis on the use of computer technology in the Allied Health field. 

 

 Biotechnology High School (BTHS)

Located in Freehold Township, Biotechnology High School provides a collaborative learning environment with a life science focus that prepares students for higher education, the evolving workplace, and citizenship in the global community through a challenging curriculum, exploration of scholarly research, design and implementation of original investigations, and interactive partnerships.   The life science theme emphasizes scientific research, critical thinking, problem solving, technology and team work. Eighty-five percent of the graduates in 2011 selected college majors in biological sciences, physical sciences, engineering and pharmacy. BTHS has articulation agreements with New Jersey universities as well as internship partnerships with many top bio/pharmaceutical companies in the state. All junior and senior students at BTHS are International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Candidates.  Seventy-three percent of the Class of 2011 earned their IB Diploma.

 

Communications High School (CHS)

Located in Wall Township, Communications High School, a small, personalized academy with a career focus, provides a theme-based integrated curriculum in conjunction with community and industry partnerships. Monmouth County students interested in the field of communications acquire knowledge, skills, and ethics in a unique and challenging educational environment.   As a highly competitive specialized school, CHS selects 80 students each year from over 29,000 students enrolled in 26 public and 10 private schools across the county.  CHS provides a college preparatory program in Communications that serves the community by providing exemplary learning experiences in areas such as New Media, Journalism and Publishing , Commercial Art, and TV/Radio Broadcasting. Every course is offered at the honors level.   

 

High Technology High School (HTHS)

Located on the campus of Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, High Technology High School is a pre-engineering career academy that emphasizes the interconnections among mathematics, science, technology and the humanities.  HTHS prepares students to become creative problem solvers through a rigorous specialized curriculum and community-based partnerships.   Since its founding, the admission process has become increasingly competitive. Seventy-five students are selected each year from a pool of over three hundred outstanding applicants.  Recognized twice as both a NJ Star School and a No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School, the US Department of Education has described HTHS as a "benchmark school." It went on to say the school "evidences that its approach embraces student, faculty, staff, and administration alike in a mission of excellence, requiring the most of, and providing the most to, all who enter there."

 

Marine Academy of Science & Technology (MAST)

To provide small, nurturing, student-centered, learning environment for young people in New Jersey; who are talented and are truly interested in the areas of: Marine and Environmental Studies.  Located on historic and scenic Sandy Hook, this unique location enables the students to have regular scientific contact on the beaches, the bay and the Atlantic Ocean.  The Marine Academy is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Schools and Colleges and offers small classes with close personal attention. In 1998, the Marine Academy was designated a Blue Ribbon School as well as a New American High School by the United States Department of Education; these are just two of the many the innovative program has received throughout its years. The school's curriculum focuses on marine sciences and marine technology/engineering. The M.A.S.T. program requires each student to participate in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) in lieu of Physical Education.

 

 All information deemed reliable as of 1/15/2012.

 

 

You’ve seen some homes and like what you’ve seen!  Manalapan, New Jersey sure appears to be a great place to live, but what about the school system?

Manalapan Township is proud to offer an elementary school district with a tradition of excellence!  Personally, I have two daughters with whom I have experienced the Manalapan Township School System and I will say that the school district continues to exceed my expectations!

Two of our schools, Manalapan Englishtown Middle School and Pine Brook School, have received the coveted New Jersey Department of Education STAR School designation and a third school, Taylor Mills, was recognized for a statewide Best Practice Award.

Manalapan students have succeeded scholastically on the national level in the Odyssey of the Mind and Continental Math League competitions. Manalapan athletes have won numerous conference, county and state titles.  Click for NJ School Report Cards on schools in the Manalapan Englishtown Regional School District.

Manalapan Township has one Early Learning Center for Pre-k and Kindergarten, five elementary schools for Grades 1 - 5, one pre-middle school for Grade 6 and a middle school for Grades 7 & 8.  Manalapan High School is a part of the Freehold Regional High School District, offering Manalapan students numerous options for their high school education.  (See my blog on High School Opportunities for the Freehold Regional High School District for more information on High School Education).

Which school will my children attend?  Not too long ago Manalapan Township underwent a redistricting to best service the needs of our growing population.  You can click here to find the district zoning map.  Click here for a list of streets with the school they go to and whether they are AM or PM kindergarten session.  Yes, Manalapan Township is only HALF DAY Kindergarten!

Where do you go to register?  New homeowners should register children at the Transportation Department, located at 116 Milhurst Rd., Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.  When transferring from another school, you will need the following:

1. Transfer card from school previously attended (if transfer is from another  N.J. school system, health records must accompany the transfer card).
2. Proof of residency (closing statement ("HUD"), utility bill, etc.)

NOTE: Students who will be 13 by October 1 must register for MEMS. Students who will be 15 by October 1 must register for the Freehold Regional High School District. Kindergarten students must be 5 years old by October 1 of that year.

Give me a call or drop me an email if you would like a more personalized description of the Manalapan-Englishtown School System.  As a 20 year Manalapan resident, I enjoy talking and teaching all there is to know about my town!

 

EARLY LEARNING (Pre-K & Kindergarten)

 

John I. Dawes Early Learning Center
Ms. Melissa Foy-Principal
38 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732) 786-2830
               

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS (Grades 1 - 5)

 

Clark Mills School
Mrs. Jayme Orlando - Principal
34 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2720
       

 

Milford Brook School
Ms. Kim Pickus-Principal
20 Globar Terrace
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)-786-2780
       

 

Lafayette Mills School
Mr. Gregory Duffy-Principal
66 Maxwell Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2700

 

       
Taylor Mills School
Mrs. Kerry Marsala-Principal
77 Gordons Corner Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2760

 

       
Wemrock Brook School
Ms. Jacqueline M. Martin-Principal
118 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726
(732)786-2600

 

 

PRE-MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grade 6)

 

Pine Brook School
Mr. John Spalthoff-Principal
155 Pease Road
Manalapan, NJ  07726
(732)786-2800

 

 

 

MIDDLE SCHOOL (Grades 7 & 8)

 

Manalapan-Englishtown Middle School (MEMS)
Mr. Robert Williams-Principal
155 Millhurst Road
Manalapan, NJ  07726
(732)786-2650 

 

 

 

 

Make this a Warmer Winter for Neighbors in Need!!

 

 

The goal of the 16th Annual Jersey Cares Coat Drive is to collect and distribute 50,000 “gently used” winter coats to at-risk men, women, children and infants. 

Over the past fifteen years, Jersey Cares has collected, sorted and distributed thousands of winter coats to New Jersey residents in need through this program.

 

 

Companies, churches, police stations, schools and other organizations collect coats throughout the drive. 

Volunteers then sort the donated coats and bag them for pick-up. Agency recipients schedule their pick-up and distribute the coats to those in need.                      

 

 

 

If you have a coat to donate, bring it  between November 1^st through December 1th to Manalapan Township Town Hall. The hours are Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm.

Alternatively, I am happy to pick up any coats from Manalapan Residents if you can't get over there.   Please call me at 732-580-7893 to arrange a date for pickup.

 

 

 

Located at the intersection of Route 33 and Route 9, Freehold Raceway Mall is a super-regional, high-end shopping mall in Freehold, New Jersey, right in the heart of Monmouth County. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Managed by The Macerich Company, Freehold Mall is currently the second largest shopping mall in New Jersey.   An outdoor lifestyle addition, built in 2007, made Freehold Raceway Mall the only mall in New Jersey to have both indoor and outdoor shopping areas.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Freehold Raceway Mall owes its success, in part, to the strength and dependability of its anchor stores which include Macy's, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Sears and JCPenney.

In addition to the large department stores, Freehold Raceway Mall also offers plenty of shopping choices for all your retail needs.  Young or old, boy or girl, there's something for everyone!

Retail Stores at the Freehold Raceway Mall

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to eating The Freehold Raceway Mall offers many options from a sit down meal at Ruby Tuesday's to grabbing a pretzel at Auntie Anne's.  Nordstrom Cafe is a crowd pleaser for something in between.

Dining at Freehold Raceway Mall

 

 

 

 

 

Whether you live in Marlboro or Manalapan, or Freehold or Howell, Freehold Raceway Mall is a great option for all your shopping needs.

 

***SOLD*** Former Model Home in Toscana at Howell, New Jersey!! ***SOLD***

SHORT SALE!!

$350,000!

 

 

 

 

 

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, Brick Front Colonial in much sought after Toscana at Howell, New Jersey!

Two story entrance and the formal Living Room welcome you to this former model home!

Updated kitchen with cherry cabinets and upgraded countertops. Breakfast room is truly stunning with walls of floor to ceiling windows!

Perfectly located off the kitchen is the spacious Family Room with gas fireplace.

Sumptuous Master Bedroom with lighted tray ceiling and two walk-in closets. Master Bathroom is upgraded with vaulted ceiling, double sinks, soaking tub and separate shower.

Finally, finished two car garage and yankee basement supports all your storage needs.

This incredible value is a Short Sale and subject to lender approval.

All certifications and township approvals are the responsibility of the buyer.

 

About Toscana at Howell:

Nestled in a quiet, scenic corner of Howell Township, this community is ideal for anyone searching for the convenience of easy access to award winning schools, transportation thoroughfares, recreational attractions, and all of the finer things in life.

Toscana’s Howell Township location is a beautiful blend of rural charm and modern conveniences.  Lush landscape surrounds the community, while gentle rolling hills and wide-open fields are found just beyond its borders.  Allaire State Park, Manasquan Reservoir, and Oak Glen Park feature a wealth of fun-filled recreational activities and facilities such as hiking, horse-back riding, picnicking, and more.  And who can resist a trip to the beaches on the shore – only a short drive away!

Travel to Manhattan, Philadelphia and throughout New Jersey is also a breeze with the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike, I-195, and Routes 9,18,33, and 34 close by.  Or, you can choose to sit back and relax on public transportation, including bus service and the Park & Ride to major business centers.

*** SOLD ***

$210,000

Move In Condition!

 

 

Excellent value in sought after Winding Ways Adult Community in the heart of Jackson, New Jersey!

Lovely 2 story Hampshire Model with Loft. Move in condition with stone front and 2 car garage!

Bright and sunny with vaulted ceilings, laminate flooring and fresh paint throughout. No popcorn ceilings here!

Separate entrances to patio from Master Bedroom and Family Room.

Fabulous loft with bonus storage room overlooks Family Room.

Must be seen!

SOLD!!!  $409,000

 

 

 

Well loved and well maintained, 4 bedroom, 2 full bath custom home with full finished basement and fabulous inground pool!

Outstanding features include decorative moldings, hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, updated stone-front fireplace and vaulted ceiling and skylights in family room.

First floor bedroom and full bath are an added bonus for visiting guests or parents.

Romantic master bedroom offers custom walk-in closet and separate dressing area.

Entertainers delight in oversized deck leading to the country club backyard!

*** SOLD ***

$409,500

 

Value, Condition AND Location!

 

 

Incredible value in this very well maintained, 4 Bdrm, 2.5 bath colonial in sought after Woodbury Oaks Community in the Morganville section of Marlboro, New Jersey!

Hardwood floors, 9 foot ceilings, recessed lighting, Cat 5 cable ready bedrooms & spacious kitchen are only a few of the amenities of this young home.

Private corner lot with paver patio completes the picture!

Fantastic location for commuters!

Less than 1.5 miles to Marlboro's Early Learning Center, a great start to Marlboro's award winning school district!

Access to the renown Marlboro recreation center, swim club/summer camp program is a bonus!

1 year home warranty to the lucky buyer!

Condition, Location AND Value!!

YOU deserve this home!

 

You asked for it, you got it!!  As a realtor with a focus on Manalapan Township, one question I get asked over and over again is... "What can you tell me about the commute to New York City?" 

 

How about...

"EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT COMMUTING FROM MANALAPAN, NEW JERSEY!!!" 

Myself, my husband, my Dad and many friends have commuted to the New York City area for years and years!

The important questions to start with are where are you going (Midtown vs. Downtown) and how do you prefer to get there (bus or train).

 

 

 

BUS

Travel to Midtown Manhattan (Port Authority)

With sheltered bus stops along the Route 9 corridor, New Jersey Transit carries riders to New York's Port Authority Bus Terminal, located in Midtown Manhattan on 8th Avenue and 42nd Street.

NJ Transit Bus Route #139 (Route 9 all local Stops) and #132 (Gordon's Corner Express).  Click for NJ Transit Bus Route #139 Schedule  Note - NJ Transit also runs limited service to and from Covered Bridge and NYC as noted on the above schedule.

From the Gordon's Corner Road stop, New Jersey Transit's 7:04 am bus will get you to the Port Authority at 8:17 am (1 hr 13 mins).  I did confirm with friends that the total trip time is pretty consistent, barring any unforeseen events.

NJ Transit bus tickets can be purchased at the Deli near the Gordon's Corner Road bus stop, the Gulf Station on Ryan Road and the Penny Pantry on Texas Road in Marlboro.

One way fare for NJ Transit from Gordons Corner Road is $13.75 with a monthly pass costing $324. 

 

Travel to Downtown Manhattan (Wall Street Area)

Academy Bus Lines services the Downtown Manhattan and Wall Street area commuters.

Academy Bus Line is the Route 9 to Wall Street.  Click for Academy's Route 9 to Wall Street Bus Schedule.   

From the Gordon's Corner Road stop, Academy's 7:06 am bus will get you to the Wall Street Area at 8:24 am (1 hr, 18 mins). 

Academy bus tickets can be purchased at the Union Hill Road Park and Ride.

One way fare for Academy is $13 with a monthly pass costing $295). 

 

Manalapan Township Commuter Parking

Manalapan Township has three commuter parking lots which require an annual permit (cost $150/year).  If you would like to put your name on the waiting list for a parking permit in Manalapan, please call the Municipal Clerk's office at (732) 446-8316.

Franklin Lane Lot - Franklin Lane runs parallel with Route 9N and is in the vicinity of Gordons Corner Road and Route 9 Intersection.  Pretty much behind the Gordon's Corner Road bus stop)

Symmes Drive Lot - Symmes Drive intersects with Route 9S and Ryan Road across from the Epicentre Shopping Mall.

Towne Pointe Lot - This lot is located at the Towne Pointe Shopping Center and is accessible from Tennent Road or Route 9S.  Note, when facing Towne Pointe, the commuter lot is on the right, in the back.  Not to be confused with the parking for patrons of the shopping center.

There is also a daily park and ride lot located at the Franklin Lane Lot.  The fee is $2.00 per day. In addition, there is also daily parking available near the Union Hill Road Park and Ride which does not require a permit.

Additional commuter parking is provided by Vornado Shopping Center (Best Buy) (Route 9 and Craig Road) in designated spaces.  This is on a first come-first served basis and no fee is charged or permit is required.

Finally, Manalapan has a reciprocal agreement with Marlboro Township for 100 commuter parking places.  Should a resident of Manalapan desire to obtain a permit in the Marlboro Township lot located on Union Hill Road, please call the Marlboro Municipal Clerk at (732) 536-0200 to have your name put on the waiting list. Since they only give 100 spots to Manalapan residents, the wait will be long.

 

TRAIN

For folks who prefer taking the train, New Jersey Transit offers rail service via the North Jersey Coast Line to New York's Penn Station (8th Avenue and 31st Street). 

The closest train station is Aberdeen-Matawan, approximately 25 minutes north east of Manalapan.  Click for NJ Transit's North Jersey Coast Line Schedule.

The 6:55 am train will get you into Penn Station at 7:55.

NJ Transit Rail Tickets can be purchased at the Aberdeen-Matawan Station.

One way fare is $13.75 with a monthly pass costing $386.

There are four commuter lots at the Matawan Train Station.  Two are controlled by Matawan Borough (732-290-2004) and two by Aberdeen Township (732-583-4200).  Contact the municipal clerk in each town to request to be placed on the waiting lists for a parking permit, although the waiting lists are years long!  The Lots 1 and 4 are by permit only.  Lots 2 and 3 offer daily parking for $3/day.  The daily lots fill early, usually by 6:30 am!  No permit is required in any of the lots after 11:00 am, with cars needing to be gone by 4:00 am.  All lots are free, with no permit required, on the weekends.

 

TRAVEL TO JERSEY CITY

More recently, I have been having people asking about commuting to Jersey City.  As such, I thought it would be helpful to include some information on that commute as well.

NJ Transit Bus Route #63 (Express) or #64 (Local).  Click for NJ Transit Bus Route #63 and #64 Schedule.

New Jersey Transit runs buses from Manalapan to Jersey City, through Hoboken and ultimately ending up in Weehawken.  Buses run approximately every 8-10 minutes between 5:30 am and 7:45 am.  The last bus to Manalapan leaves Jersey City at approximately 6:45 pm.

The 7:04 am (Express) gets you to Exchange Place (Jersey City) at 8:14 am (1 hour, 10 minutes total). 

One way bus fare is $10 with a monthly pass costing $263.

You may also consider taking the train from Aberdeen-Matawan to the Newark/Penn Station Stop and take the subway to the Jersey City Exchange Place Path Station.  Travel time, including the change of train would be just over an hour.

 

THE COMMUTING TAKEAWAY

If you are interested in a first-hand account of what it is like to commute from the Manalapan area, please feel free to give me a call!

The takeaway on commuting from Manalapan is that sure, some days it can be hectic, but the lifestyle is certainly worth it!  The closer you live to "the city," the more "city" it will be.  The higher the taxes, the smaller the lot sizes, the less "house" your money can buy.

As I mentioned earlier, I commuted for years, as did most of my family and many of my friends.  For this post, went back and asked many of them if they had any regrets about making the move and not a single one said yes!

 

 

 

 

If you've taken the time to read this post, then you have probably done your fair share of commuting. 
I KNOW you'll appreciate a little commuting humor.  Check out my recent blog post...

Top 7, Sure-Fire Ways to Foul Up Your Commute.

 

 

 

(Information contained in this post is deemed reliable as of 11/29/2010, but cannot be guaranteed)

 

Little Soldiers Toy Drive

 

ManalapanTownship will be participating in the Little Soldiers Toy Drive which collects toys for the children of deployed military personnel.  

Stars will be displayed at the Manalapan Township Municipal Building.  Residents are encouraged to pick a star or two, go shopping and return the gift to the Manalapan Township Administration Department.

All gifts must be at the Administration Department no later than Dec. 9, 2010.