Village History
Woodbury was initially settled in the early 1700s, primarily as large farms and estates. The hamlets of Woodbury Falls, Highland Mills and Central Valley were established during the 1800s and connected by an old stagecoach route that is now Route 32. The New York and Newburgh Railroad arrived in 1868, providing a link between the hamlets and to points beyond. Formal government was established in 1889, and development around Central Valley and Highland Mills continued through the early 1900s. The population grew moderately through the 1920s, remained stagnant through the depression, and increased again in the 1940s.
Population growth in Woodbury continued through the mid-20th Century as summer resorts became popular and its reputation grew as a destination near to both New York City and the mountains. Bungalow colonies (some of which still exist) on the west side of Woodbury became popular with New York City residents, particularly with the opening of the New York State Thruway in the 1950s. Between 1970 and 1980, the number of bungalows and seasonal homes decreased, but the number of year-round residents increased.
Until the 1980s, the greatest growth period had been the post-war era from 1950 to 1970, when the Town took on its present-day characteristics. Suburban growth and the construction of yearround single-family detached units replaced the previous dominant characteristic: that of a seasonal vacation spot. Although in the 1970s, the rate of residential construction decreased, the 1980s and 1990s were decades of increased construction and fairly rapid population growth.
In August 2006, the incorporated Village of Woodbury was formed. On June 1, 2007, planning and zoning responsibilities became the function of the Village. The Village has subsequently assumed responsibility for the building department, the water/sewer department, and the fire department.
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