Small-town atmosphere with big city access
Located just a 45-minute drive from New York City, Bradley Gardens eschews the urban atmosphere in favor of a small-town, suburban feel – one that provides a bit more room to stretch out and breathe without giving up access to all the urban amenities nearby. “I like to think of Bradley Gardens as that nice, quiet neighbor,” says Alex Monaco, Realtor with RE/MAX Instyle Realty and resident of a neighboring community for over six years. “It’s a tight-knit place where people get to know each other and see each other at the park – it’s a really different feeling than what you get just a little way away in the city.”
A blend of established and modern housing
Homes in Bradley Gardens reflect a blend of old and new, with modern contemporary homes sitting right alongside traditional styles – including ranch style, Cape Cod and Colonial Revival. “Housing in the community is a nice mix,” says Chris Egri, real estate agent (along with wife and partner, Diane) at Keller Williams Elite. “It’s got a quintessential suburban feel to it, and it features more newer, contemporary builds than some of the other neighborhoods nearby.” Prices for newer homes – which are usually larger in size, as well -- typically start at around $625,000 and can reach as high as $960,000. Traditional homes are often lovingly renovated, with these prices ranging from $400,000 to $550,000; some particularly grand established homes can reach prices as high as $800,000, however. Homebuyers can expect patios, driveways and sizeable yards, thanks to the spread-out nature of the area. Townhouses are also found throughout the neighborhood, generally ranging in price from $300,000 to $700,000.
Bridgewater-Raritan High School offers clear-cut paths post-graduation
Students can begin at Bradley Gardens Primary School, which earns a Niche grade of A-minus, before moving on fellow A-minus rated Bridgewater-Raritan Middle. Students can finish up at Bridgewater-Raritan High School, which earns an A from Niche and features an innovative multi-year career concentration curriculum. The program prepares students for college work in computer science, the performing arts or the visual arts, and provides career exposure and job shadowing before culminating in a senior capstone project.
Become a part of the community (garden)
The region’s natural beauty is on full display at nearby Duke Farms, where visitors can consider joining the Duke Farms Community Garden – which features over 460 plots (offered on a seasonal basis) aimed at offering members the opportunity to grow organic food while connecting with others in the community. Duke Island Park is another popular retreat, known for its trails and amenities. “There’s plenty of trails to explore up and down the length of the park,” says Monaco. “Kids can play on the large playground, and families can also enjoy the café inside the park center.”
Plenty of options without having to go far
Bridgewater Towne Center serves as one of the main commercial destinations in town, with it featuring well-known retailers and restaurants such as Home Depot, Party City and Olive Garden – along with the area’s go-to for groceries, Wegmans. Bridgewater Commons sits just four miles outside Bradley Gardens and is the largest shopping mall in the area and features over 150 shops/restaurants, including nationally recognized chains and designer brands. Espo’s Restaurant and Bar is a local favorite, renowned for its old-fashioned red sauce and classic Italian cuisine. And while the area is quieter than many of its neighbors, residents looking for a night out can still find plenty to do in nearby Somerville. “Somerville has a great nightlife, something that not everybody is aware of,” says Monaco. “Main Street really feels like its own little downtown area, where you can stroll around and stop in at places like Mannion’s Pub or the Village Brewing Company.”
Newark and New York City train access
Residents are only three miles from the onramp to I-287, while the Raritan Train Station is just two miles from the neighborhood. With straightforward access to New York City thanks to the nearby highways, along with train service to both Newark and NYC, commuters have plenty of reasons to consider Bradley Gardens – though, even with the traffic being less congested than some other nearby areas, getting around will still depend on the time of day.
