The Bronx is the northernmost of the five boroughs that make up New York City. With a population of 1,418,207 as of the 2020 census, it is the third most populated of the five boroughs after Brooklyn and Queens.
History
The Bronx was originally part of Westchester County, but it became a borough when it was annexed to New York City in 1898. The name “Bronx” comes from the Swedish settler Jonas Bronck, who established the first settlement in the area in 1639.
In the early 20th century, the Bronx developed into a thriving industrial and residential area. However, by the 1960s and 1970s, it had suffered from a wave of arson, poverty, and urban decay. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, the Bronx has undergone revitalization and redevelopment.
Geography
The Bronx is located on the mainland of New York City and is connected to Manhattan by bridges over the Harlem River. It is the only borough that is located primarily on the U.S. mainland. The Bronx covers 42 square miles and has a diverse landscape including coastal areas along the East River, hills in the western parts, and flatlands in the eastern parts.
Demographics
The population of the Bronx as of 2020 is 1,418,207. This makes it the 6th most populated county in the United States. Here is a breakdown of key demographics:
- White: 32.7%
- Black or African American: 43.7%
- Hispanic or Latino (of any race): 56.7%
- Asian: 4.2%
- Two or more races: 3.1%
The Bronx has a high degree of cultural diversity. It has large European, African American, and Hispanic/Latino communities. There are many neighborhoods that reflect distinct ethnic identities such as Little Italy, City Island, Riverdale, and Morris Park.
Economy
Historically, the Bronx was home to many manufacturing and food production businesses. Today, the economy of the Bronx is shifting more towards service industries. However, some notable businesses still have a presence:
- FreshDirect – Online grocer
- Goya Foods – Food manufacturer
- Montefiore Medical Center – Hospital & healthcare provider
The Bronx is home to major sports venues including Yankee Stadium and has a thriving cultural scene. Popular tourist attractions include the Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden.
Neighborhoods
The Bronx consists of a diverse set of neighborhoods, each with its own character and identity. Some of the most well-known include:
- Mott Haven – Primarily a residential neighborhood and home to the Banchon Playground.
- Melrose – Mixed residential and commercial area known as the cultural hub of the South Bronx.
- Morris Heights – Residential area near the Harlem River popular for its hilly streets.
- Riverdale – Affluent residential enclave with impressive mansions and views of the Hudson River.
- Woodlawn – Irish American enclave home of the famous Woodlawn Cemetery.
Parks
There are numerous public parks and green spaces throughout the borough of the Bronx. Some of the most notable include:
- Pelham Bay Park – the largest public park in New York City at 2,772 acres.
- Van Cortlandt Park – 1,146 acre park home to trails, sports fields, a golf course, and more.
- Joyce Kilmer Park – Named after the poet and includes a memorial in his honor.
- St. James Park – Features art deco style buildings, fountains, and monuments.
Transportation
Public transportation is essential for getting around the Bronx and connecting to the rest of New York City. Key options include:
- MTA Subway – Many lines such as the 2, 4, 5, 6, B, and D serve various parts of the borough.
- MTA Bus – Extensive network of local and express buses throughout the borough.
- Metro-North Railroad – Commuter rail connecting to Westchester County and Connecticut.
The Bronx is also accessible from Manhattan via major river crossings including the Robert F Kennedy Bridge, Willis Avenue Bridge, Third Avenue Bridge, and Madison Avenue Bridge.
Crime
In the 1970s through the 1990s, the Bronx became known for high levels of crime and poverty. Since then, crime rates have fallen dramatically. However, some neighborhoods still experience higher crime rates than the city average. According to NYPD data, the precincts with the most reported major crimes in 2022 were:
- 40th Precinct (Mott Haven area)
- 44th Precinct (Highbridge area)
- 48th Precinct (East Tremont area)
Improvements in the local economy, increased youth programs, community policing efforts, and urban redevelopment projects have all contributed to declining crime rates in the borough.
Government
The Bronx is governed by the Bronx Borough President, currently Vanessa Gibson, along with the 51 members of the New York City Council who represent districts in the borough. The Bronx Borough President advises the Mayor of New York City on issues relating to the borough.
The Bronx is part of federal Congressional Districts 14, 15, and 16. It is also represented in the New York State Assembly and State Senate.
Education
The New York City Department of Education manages public schools in the Bronx. There are several CUNY campuses located in the borough including Hostos Community College, Bronx Community College, and Herbert H. Lehman College.
Notable private universities include Fordham University and Manhattan College. Some historic public high schools include the Bronx High School of Science, DeWitt Clinton High School, and Theodore Roosevelt High School.
Hospitals
The largest health care providers in the Bronx include Montefiore Medical Center, Jacobi Medical Center, North Central Bronx Hospital, and NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln. These major hospitals offer various specialties, ambulatory care, emergency services, and community programs.
Visitor Attractions
The Bronx has many great options for visitors to enjoy history, culture, sports, and nature. Top attractions include:
- Bronx Zoo – One of the world’s largest metropolitan zoos.
- New York Botanical Garden – 250 acre garden with greenhouses, trails, and specialty gardens.
- Yankee Stadium – Home of the 27-time World Series champion New York Yankees.
- Wave Hill – Public garden and cultural center located on the Hudson River.
- The Bronx Museum of the Arts – Contemporary art museum.
For more information on visiting the Bronx, check out the borough’s tourism website at https://www.nycgo.com/boroughs-neighborhoods/bronx/
Famous People from the Bronx
Many famous people were born, raised, and got their start in the Bronx. Some notable names include:
- Jennifer Lopez – Singer, actress, dancer
- Colin Powell – Former Secretary of State
- Lauren Bacall – Actress
- Carl Reiner – Actor, director, producer
- Sonny Rollins – Jazz saxophonist
The Bronx’s diversity, tight-knit communities, and urban culture have produced many talented artists, leaders, and innovators over the years.
Final Thoughts
As one of New York City’s five boroughs, the Bronx offers a dynamic urban area rich in culture, diversity, sports, nature, and more. From its origins as a rural area to today’s resurgence and revitalization, the Bronx continues to evolve and thrive. To learn more, visit the borough’s Facebook page or the official website for the Bronx borough president.
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