Princeton covers an area of 18.1 square miles in the heart of central New Jersey. It is composed of the former Township of Princeton and Borough of Princeton which consolidated effective January, 2013 and is now known as Princeton. The population of Princeton is approximately 30,000.A substantial portion of the property of Princeton University lies within the borders of Princeton as does the property of the Institute for Advanced Study. Other well-known educational institutions within Princeton are the Hun School, the Princeton Day School, and the Stuart Country Day School of the Sacred Heart.While no major arteries directly touch Princeton, it is dissected by US Highway Route 206; and there is ready access to US Highway Route 1, the New Jersey Turnpike, the Garden State Parkway and Amtrak and New Jersey Transit which provide direct rail services to New York and Philadelphia.In general, Princeton is an open semi-wooded community of diverse housing, including substantial and moderate homes and a highly recognized affordable housing program and is an example of sound suburban development. There is also one shopping center, several other shopping areas of smaller size, some office research and services areas and a large amount of preserved open space.Recreation facilities are numerous and provide community recreation facilities including a large pool complex, tennis and paddle tennis courts, athletic playing fields and various parks and playgrounds. Numerous programs and activities are provided through the Recreation Department.