Hi Jothar.
My grandparents lived in Lakewood from way back in the day and I often spent time there. But how many “real” Lakewood old timers have you spoken to? And they all hold the same? Are they different from the ones I am in contact with everyday? Are you in Lakewood yourself?
Bezalel WAS the only game in town as you admit. As far as who would send their kids their today is a moot point since it is closed down. But your original point, I believe, was talking about Lakewoods’ origins. Throwing “today” into the mix was not in the context of what you were stating. You are making this an apples and oranges kind of thing.
As far as your conclusion, I have to respectfully disagree. The mere presence of other types of Jews, if we have to go there, does not mitigate the presence or quality of an “ir HaTorah in Lakewood at all times. In fact, it’s a good thing, in my opinion.