Does Central Jersey exist? If you’ve ever been in a debate about whether Central Jersey exists, you’re not alone. For decades, New Jerseyans have argued over whether there’s really a “middle” to the Garden State or if it’s just North and South Jersey battling it out. Well, Jersey Girls, we have news: the debate is officially over.
“Today, we settle the decades-old debate once and for all: Central Jersey exists,” Governor Murphy declared at the bill signing in Somerville. The legislation requires New Jersey’s Division of Travel and Tourism to redraw the state’s tourism map to include Central Jersey and promote it in all regional marketing campaigns.
Does Central Jersey Exist? What the Law Defines
According to the new law, Central Jersey officially includes at minimum the counties of Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, and Somerset. But many Jersey Girls know the region extends beyond just those four—some argue that Monmouth, Ocean, and Union counties belong in the mix too.
Governor Murphy himself weighed in back in 2019, saying Central Jersey includes Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Somerset for sure, with Ocean and Union counties being “on the fence.”
The Wawa-QuickChek Test
Ask any true Central Jersey girl how to define the region, and she’ll probably mention the “Wawa-QuickChek line.” Central Jersey is that magical place where both convenience store chains exist within a 5-mile radius. It’s where North Jersey culture meets South Jersey vibes—and we get the best of both worlds.
Why Does Central Jersey Matter?
Beyond settling arguments at family dinners, the official recognition of Central Jersey has real benefits. The region is home to Revolutionary War history (George Washington spent time here!), Rutgers University, beautiful farmlands, scenic river towns, breweries, and so much more.
The law aims to boost tourism in Central Jersey, which is still recovering from pandemic-era declines. By putting Central Jersey on the map—literally—the state hopes to attract more visitors to explore what the area has to offer.
Central Jersey Girls Have It Best
Let’s be real: Central Jersey girls know they’ve got the sweet spot. We’re close enough to New York City for a Broadway show, close enough to Philly for a cheesesteak run, and close enough to the shore for a beach day. We don’t have to pick sides in the pork roll vs. Taylor ham debate (though we all know it’s pork roll). And now, thanks to Governor Murphy, we finally have the official recognition we deserve.
So the next time someone tries to tell you Central Jersey doesn’t exist, you can confidently say: “Actually, it’s the law.”
What do you think, Jersey Girls? Are you proud to rep Central Jersey? Let us know where you draw the boundaries in the comments!
The History Behind the Central Jersey Debate
For years, the question “does Central Jersey exist?” has sparked heated discussions at diners, beach trips, and family gatherings across the state. Some argued it was just a myth created by people who didn’t want to pick sides. Others pointed to distinct cultural markers that set the middle region apart from its northern and southern neighbors.
The debate even made national headlines when late-night host Stephen Colbert questioned Governor Murphy about it. Murphy didn’t hesitate—he declared himself a proud Central Jersey native from Middletown.
What Makes Central Jersey Unique?
Central Jersey isn’t just about geography—it’s about identity. It’s where you can root for both the Yankees and the Phillies without judgment. It’s where you’re equally comfortable saying “down the shore” or “the beach.” And it’s where the perfect weekend includes visiting a farm stand, catching a show at the State Theatre in New Brunswick, and ending the day at a local brewery.
The region also plays a crucial role in New Jersey’s economy and culture. With Rutgers University, Princeton University, and numerous tech companies calling Central Jersey home, it’s truly a “bedrock of innovation, ingenuity, and intellectual discovery,” as Governor Murphy stated.
The Final Word on Central Jersey
So, does Central Jersey exist? Thanks to Governor Murphy and the New Jersey legislature, the answer is a resounding yes. Senate Bill 3206 didn’t just settle a decades-old argument—it gave millions of Jersey Girls (and guys) the official recognition they’ve always deserved.
Whether you’re from Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Somerset, or one of the surrounding counties, you can now proudly say you’re from Central Jersey. Because it’s not just a place on a map—it’s a state of mind, a way of life, and now, the law of the land.
