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Quispamsis
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Quispamsis (/kwɪs.pæm.sɪs/,[a] sometimes shortened to Quispam /kwɪsˈpæm/) is a suburban town located in Kings County, New Brunswick, Canada. Located within Saint John's metropolitan area, it borders the town of Rothesay to form the Kennebecasis Valley and is located along the lower Kennebecasis River. As of 2021, the population of Quispamsis was 18,768.[1]

Key Information

History

[edit]
See also: History of New Brunswick and List of historic places in Kings County, New Brunswick

The region was initially inhabited by the Maliseet First Nation, who were members of the Wabanaki Confederacy.[2] The name "Quispamsis" was derived from the Maliseet language, signifying "little lake in the woods," possibly referring specifically to the present-day Ritchie Lake.[3] Around 1783, Acadians, British pre-Loyalists and Loyalists settled in the area, with many individuals receiving land grants along the Kennebecasis and Hammond Rivers.

In December 1982, Quispamsis' application for town status was accepted by the province; it was New Brunswick's largest village at the time.[4]

Amalgamation

[edit]
Quispamsis water tower

Following the December 1992 release of a government discussion paper entitled "Strengthening Municipal Government in New Brunswick's Urban Centres", a series of localized feasibility studies were commissioned by the Frank McKenna's Liberals targeting six geographic areas: Edmunston, Campbellton, Dalhousie, Miramichi, Moncton, and Saint John. In each instance, a panel composed of local representatives and expert consulting staff made specific recommendations for each urban-centred region.[5] The report for the Greater Saint John area, "A Community of Communities: Creating a stronger future" - often referred to simply as the Cormier Report - offered two potential solutions to the Province for consolidating the many municipalities in Greater Saint John, neither of which was ultimately adopted by government.

Option one offered by the Cormier Report was to create three communities with regionalization of some services. Under this option, the six Kennebecasis Valley communities (East Riverside-Kinghurst, Fairvale, Gondola Point, Quispamsis, Renforth, and Rothesay) plus the local service district of the Parish of Rothesay would be consolidated into one new municipality. The Town of Grand Bay and various unincorporated areas around Saint John would also be consolidated into the City of Saint John to form the second new municipality. The third municipality in this scenario would be Westfield, which would remain separate because it was more rural and less populated.[6] In this scenario, many services including water and sewerage, planning, and economic development would be regionalized across the three municipalities.

The second option offered by Cormier was a full consolidation of eight of the existing communities into one new city. In this scenario, only Westfield would remain a separate municipality.[7] Full consolidation was unpopular among residents outside the City of Saint John. Suburban residents stated generally that they were pleased with their communities as they were and that they liked their lower tax rates. As Cormier summarized it, residents "perceive Saint John as an expensive, poorly managed bureaucracy that does not serve its citizens well. They fear loss of control, loss of services, and loss of neighbourhood friendliness and sense of community."[8]

Ultimately, neither of the two options was implemented. Rather, the provincial government chose to proceed with partial consolidations and opted to legislate cost sharing for five specific regional facilities.[9] Quispamsis amalgamated on January 1, 1998 with the nearby communities of Gondola Point and Wells to form the present town, covering an area of 60 km2 and bordering the town of Rothesay to the southwest with the Hammond River along its northeastern boundary.

Occasional discussion about the possibility of further amalgamating Rothesay with Quispamsis has not proceeded beyond the discussion phase,[10] though the two municipalities do collaborate extensively to share services and facilities.[11] Notably, both towns' boundaries were also left largely unaltered by the 2023 New Brunswick local governance reform.[12]

Demographics

[edit]

In the 2021 Census of Population conducted by Statistics Canada, Quispamsis had a population of 18,768 living in 6,855 of its 6,985 total private dwellings, a change of 2.9% from its 2016 population of 18,245. With a land area of 56.97 km2 (22.00 sq mi), it had a population density of 329.4/km2 (853.2/sq mi) in 2021.[13]

Historical population
YearPop.±%
19816,022—    
19867,185+19.3%
19918,446+17.6%
19968,839+4.7%
YearPop.±%
200113,757+55.6%
200615,239+10.8%
201117,886+17.4%
201618,245+2.0%
Source: Statistic Canada[14][15]
Panethnic groups in the Town of Quispamsis (2001−2021)
Panethnic group 2021[16] 2016[17] 2011[18] 2006[19] 2001[20]
Pop. % Pop. % Pop. % Pop. % Pop. %
European[b] 17,170 92.94% 17,095 95.21% 16,780 95.07% 14,980 98.29% 13,455 97.85%
East Asian[c] 490 2.65% 315 1.75% 305 1.73% 40 0.26% 40 0.29%
Indigenous 275 1.49% 240 1.34% 195 1.1% 45 0.3% 70 0.51%
African 230 1.24% 150 0.84% 170 0.96% 45 0.3% 95 0.69%
South Asian 125 0.68% 50 0.28% 90 0.51% 55 0.36% 45 0.33%
Southeast Asian[d] 75 0.41% 20 0.11% 30 0.17% 20 0.13% 0 0%
Latin American 30 0.16% 20 0.11% 40 0.23% 50 0.33% 30 0.22%
Middle Eastern[e] 10 0.05% 45 0.25% 50 0.28% 10 0.07% 20 0.15%
Other/multiracial[f] 75 0.41% 35 0.19% 0 0% 0 0% 20 0.15%
Total responses 18,475 98.44% 17,955 98.41% 17,650 98.38% 15,240 100.01% 13,750 99.95%
Total population 18,768 100% 18,245 100% 17,941 100% 15,239 100% 13,757 100%
Note: Totals greater than 100% due to multiple origin responses

Parks

[edit]

There are a number of recreational parks in the area. Parks open at dawn and closed at dusk. Parks include:

Arts and Culture Park (12 Landing Court) – includes walking trails, WiFi, picnic/chess tables, benches, stage and mezzanine. During the summer months there are outdoor movies and music free of charge and ice skating during the winter months.

Hammond River Park (28 Reynar Drive) – includes 40 acres, a fire pit, barbecue, picnic tables, hiking trails and a log cabin which is available for rent.

Off Leash Park (222 Vincent Road) – fenced-in area, trails and benches. This is an area for dog owners to let their dog run free.[citation needed]

Meenan's Cove Park (199 Model Farm Road) – includes picnic tables, barbecues, beach, boat dock, playground, ball field, walking trails and beach volleyball courts.

Ritchie Lake Park (Cedar Grove Drive) – includes picnic tables, beach and walking trails.

Quispamsis Qplex (20 Randy Jones Way) - includes two soccer fields, a baseball field, tennis courts, an arena, a swimming pool and a playground as well as many varied walking trails.

Gondola Point Beach - Gondola Point Beach is a supervised freshwater beach with changing rooms and picnic areas. It is situated on a sandbar overlooking the Kennebecasis River at the entrance to the Gondola Point Cable Ferry service in Quispamsis. In the summer of 2014 there was a section on the beach fenced off for a "dog beach".[citation needed]

Transport

[edit]

The Gondola Point Ferry, linking Quispamsis with the Kingston Peninsula, was originally installed by William Pitt and is the first underwater cable ferry in the world.[21]

The COMEX bus service run by Saint John Transit runs through the Kennebecasis Valley and shuttles commuters from Quispamsis to Saint John every day, Mondays to Fridays. There are a few "park and ride" locations for commuters to leave their car for the day to take the bus into Saint John and along with other standing bus stops along the way.[22]

Education

[edit]

Quispamsis has a number of schools from grades K-12, these schools are:

School Grades
Quispamsis Elementary School K-5
Lakefield Elementary School K-5
Chris Saunders Memorial Elementary School K-5
École des Pionniers K-5
Origins Academy K-5
Valley Christian Academy K-12
Quispamsis Middle School 6-8
Kennebecasis Valley High School 9-12

Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Quispamsis

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from Grokipedia
Quispamsis is a town in southwestern New Brunswick, Canada, situated in the Kennebecasis Valley approximately 22 kilometres northeast of Saint John. The community is bordered by the Kennebecasis and Hammond rivers, which historically facilitated travel for First Nations peoples and early settlers. Originally inhabited by the Maliseet First Nation, part of the Algonquin Federation, the name "Quispamsis" derives from their language and means "little lake," referring to Ritchie Lake within the area. European land grants were issued in the late 17th century, but significant English settlement commenced after the Seven Years' War, with growth accelerated by the arrival of Loyalists in 1783. In 1998, Quispamsis underwent amalgamation with the former Village of Gondola Point and a portion of the Wells area, expanding its boundaries. As of the 2021 census, the town has a population of 18,768 residents. Primarily a residential suburb, Quispamsis functions as a commuter community for the nearby urban center of Saint John, featuring picturesque landscapes and access to river-based recreation.

Geography

Location and Physical Features

Quispamsis is situated in Kings County, , , within the Greater Saint John metropolitan area. The town lies approximately 20 kilometres northeast of Saint John and borders to the east, collectively forming the Kennebecasis Valley region along the lower reaches of the Kennebecasis River. Its central geographic coordinates are 45.43°N and 65.95°W . The municipality covers a land area of 56.97 square kilometres. Quispamsis occupies a position in the Kennebecasis Valley, featuring gently rolling hills and riverine terrain characteristic of southern New Brunswick's Appalachian foothills. The Hammond River flows through the area, supporting local parks, trails, and recreational activities such as and , while the nearby Kennebecasis River contributes to the valley's scenic and hydrological profile. Elevations average around 54 metres above , reflecting the low-relief landscape of the region.

Climate and Environment

Quispamsis experiences a (Köppen Dfb) with cold, snowy winters, warm summers, and significant precipitation throughout the year, moderated by its location in the Kennebecasis Valley near the . The annual mean temperature averages around 6–7°C, with January highs near -1°C and lows around -9°C, while and highs reach 22°C and lows 14°C; extremes can drop to -20°C in winter or exceed 30°C in summer. Average annual precipitation totals approximately 1,200 mm, including about 200 cm of snowfall, distributed fairly evenly but with peaks in fall and winter due to Atlantic storms. The local environment features riverine and coastal ecosystems, including the Kennebecasis River and Hammond River, which support wetlands, forests, and beaches such as Meenan's Cove and Gondola Point. Recreational areas like the Millennium Cycle Bike Park and community gardens enhance green space access, while natural aligns with New Brunswick's Acadian forest and coastal habitats. Recent assessments have identified challenges, including and loading in Ritchie Lake, contributing to degradation from and development. Municipal efforts address environmental resilience through initiatives like programs, solar street lighting pilots, and wind-solar resource mapping funded by provincial grants. Quispamsis participates in federal and provincial programs, including a dedicated Climate Change Adaptation Plan developed with the Climate Change Secretariat, focusing on flood mitigation, energy efficiency, and sustainable amid rising risks from sea-level rise and .

History

Indigenous and Early European Settlement

The territory encompassing present-day Quispamsis was originally inhabited by the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) people, members of the , who utilized the Kennebecasis and Hammond Rivers as primary travel and resource routes. These Indigenous groups, sometimes historically referred to as the Etchemin in early European accounts, maintained seasonal encampments and relied on the region's waterways, forests, and lakes for sustenance prior to sustained European contact. The name "Quispamsis" derives from the Maliseet term "Quispem Sis" or similar variants, translating to "little lake," in reference to Ritchie Lake within the town's boundaries. European interest in the area emerged during the colonial era, with lands linked to seigniories from the 1500s to early 1700s under French administration. In 1689, Pierre Chesnet, Sieur de Breuil, received a grant for territory south of the Kennebecasis River, extending from Meenan's Cove to Hampton. A subsequent grant in 1695 went to Sieur de Plenne for adjacent lands westward, encompassing much of modern Quispamsis, though these were primarily seigneurial claims rather than populated settlements. Substantive European settlement commenced after the Seven Years' War in 1763, as British control solidified, but accelerated with the arrival of Loyalists in 1783 following the . These refugees received land grants in the Kennebecasis Valley, establishing farms and communities that formed the basis of early permanent European presence; pre-Loyalist British settlers and displaced had occupied scattered sites earlier, but Loyalist influx markedly increased population density. Notable early structures include Stoneycroft, a Loyalist-era building along Hampton Road that functioned as the "Twelve Mile House," a waypoint for travelers between Saint John and the .

Modern Development and Amalgamation

Quispamsis was incorporated as a village in 1966 amid increasing residential settlement along the Kennebecasis River. By 1982, sustained population expansion led to its elevation to town status, reflecting its emergence as a key suburban hub in Kings County. The town's boundaries expanded significantly through amalgamation effective January 1, 1998, when it merged with the adjacent Village of Gondola Point and portions of the former Local Service District of Wells, enlarging its area to 57.21 km². This consolidation integrated diverse waterfront and inland communities, enhancing administrative efficiency and service delivery for a growing commuter base oriented toward Saint John, approximately 20 km away. Post-amalgamation, Quispamsis has undergone rapid suburbanization, shifting from a predominantly rural and seasonal enclave to a residential-oriented municipality with commercial corridors along Route 1. Population growth accelerated, rising 17.4% from 15,239 in 2006 to 17,886 in 2011, driven by affordable housing and proximity to urban employment centers. By the 2021 census, the population reached 18,768, with inter-censal growth rates between 2011–2016 and 2016–2021 ranking among the highest in the Greater Saint John region, fueled by in-migration and low-density housing developments. Recent urban initiatives address this expansion, including a 2024 housing action strategy to accommodate demographic shifts toward smaller households and aging residents, alongside upgrades such as $1.4 million in federal funding allocated in 2025 for streets, , and systems. In , municipal leaders surveyed residents on potential amalgamation with neighboring to manage shared growth pressures, though no merger proceeded. These efforts underscore Quispamsis's evolution into a stable, low-density with a of 329 persons per km² as of 2021.

Government and Politics

Municipal Administration

Quispamsis operates under a council-manager form of municipal , with policy decisions made by an elected and day-to-day administration handled by a (CAO). The council consists of eight members elected for four-year terms: one , one , and six councillors. Municipal elections occur every four years, with the most recent held on May 10, 2021. Libby O'Hara has served as mayor since 2021, having previously acted as for nine years; she won the 2021 mayoral election with 3,790 votes, capturing 84% of the total. The council includes Mary Schryer and Councillors Emil Olsen, Kerrie Luck, Kirk Miller, Mike Biggar, Beth Thompson, and Noah Donovan, as reflected in ongoing town activities through 2025. Council meetings are held regularly at , located at 12 Landing Court, with agendas posted online and opportunities available via pre-submitted requests. Administrative leadership is provided by CAO Ian Watson, who assumed the role on August 26, 2024, following a selection process by the town council. The CAO oversees municipal operations, including departments for , utilities, , and public services, supported by staff housed at , which operates Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Contact for is facilitated through phone at (506) 849-5778 or at [email protected].

Provincial Political Role

Quispamsis constitutes a provincial in the , primarily encompassing the town of Quispamsis and adjacent areas in Kings County. The district elects a single (MLA) to represent its constituents in provincial matters, including legislation on , , and . From 2010 to 2024, the riding was held by Progressive Conservative Blaine Higgs, who first won the seat in a by-election on November 15, 2010, and was re-elected in the general elections of 2014, 2018, and 2020. Higgs's tenure elevated the district's profile, as he led the Progressive Conservative Party to form government in 2018 and served as the 34th Premier of New Brunswick until 2024, focusing on fiscal restraint, energy policy reforms, and infrastructure investments. In the October 21, 2024, provincial election, Liberal Aaron Kennedy defeated Higgs by 193 votes, securing 52.2% of the popular vote in the riding and flipping the seat to the Liberals. Kennedy, a former municipal administrator, now serves as MLA for Quispamsis and holds cabinet positions as and minister responsible for Service New Brunswick, influencing policies on municipal funding and provincial administrative services. This outcome contributed to the Liberal Party's majority victory, forming the 61st with 31 seats. The district's competitive nature, evidenced by narrow margins in recent contests, underscores its strategic importance in provincial elections, often serving as a for broader conservative-leaning suburban sentiments in southern .

Demographics

Population

The population of Quispamsis stood at 18,768 according to the 2021 of Population conducted by . This marked an increase of 523 residents from the 18,245 recorded in the 2016 census, yielding a total growth of 2.9% over the intervening five years. The corresponding average annual growth rate was approximately 0.57%, reflecting modest expansion consistent with suburban patterns near larger urban centers like Saint John. This period aligned with broader trends in , where population increases have increasingly relied on net amid declining natural increase due to low rates. For Quispamsis specifically, official municipal assessments describe steady growth over the prior two decades, though at a decelerating pace as evidenced by successive figures. The 2021 enumerated 6,985 total private dwellings in the town, with 6,855 occupied by usual residents, indicating high occupancy rates supportive of sustained but not explosive demographic pressure. Quispamsis forms part of the larger Quispamsis-Rothesay population centre, which grew from 24,549 residents in 2016 to 24,881 in 2021—a 1.4% rise—highlighting slightly tempered dynamics when accounting for adjacent areas. Regional data for the Saint John area, encompassing Quispamsis, point to accelerated growth in southeast , reaching 138,985 by recent estimates, driven primarily by inbound migration to established communities. These patterns underscore Quispamsis's role as a stable commuter , with population dynamics influenced more by selective in-migration than rapid or natural expansion.

Socioeconomic Characteristics

In Quispamsis, the median total household income in 2020 stood at $113,000, exceeding the provincial median for . Average total household income reached $133,000 in the same year, with average after-tax income at $105,900, reflecting a relatively affluent resident base supported by suburban proximity to employment hubs in nearby Saint John. Educational attainment levels surpass provincial averages, with only 9.8% of residents holding no certificate, , or degree, compared to 18.9% across . Approximately 25.4% possess a or equivalent as their highest qualification. Post-secondary completion rates are elevated, contributing to skilled workforce participation in professional and technical sectors. The labour force totals around 9,800 individuals aged 15 and over, with a participation rate of 66.4% and an rate of 61.7% as of the 2021 census. The unemployment rate measures 7.2%, lower than contemporaneous provincial figures amid post-pandemic recovery. stands at 7.0%, among the lowest in the region, indicating limited socioeconomic distress relative to urban centers like Saint John.

Economy

Key Sectors and Employment

The economy of Quispamsis is characterized by a predominantly service-based structure, reflecting its role as a suburban community within the Greater Saint John region, where many residents commute for work. In the 2021 Census, the town's employed labour force totaled 9,290 individuals aged 15 and over, with an employment rate of 61.7% and an rate of 7.1%. Services-producing industries accounted for the majority of jobs, while goods-producing sectors represented a smaller but notable share, including and . Health care and social assistance emerged as the largest sector, employing 17% of the workforce in 2021, up from 15.4% in 2016, driven by regional demand for medical and support services. Retail trade followed at 13.1% (from 11.2% in 2016), underscoring the importance of consumer-oriented commerce in the local economy. (7.8%) and educational services (7.7%) also featured prominently, aligning with government and institutional employment in New Brunswick's .
Major Industry Sectors (2021)Percentage of Employed Labour Force
Health care and social assistance17.0%
Retail trade13.1%
8.7%
7.8%
Educational services7.7%
Professional, scientific and technical services7.5%
5.4%
, at 8.7%, highlighted a modest goods-producing presence, potentially linked to proximity to industrial base, while (5.4%) supported ongoing residential and development. Smaller sectors included utilities (3.0%) and transportation and warehousing (3.4%), with minimal in primary industries like (0.9%). These distributions indicate stability from 2016 to 2021, with growth in and retail amid broader provincial trends in service expansion. Overall, 90% of workers were employees rather than self-employed, suggesting reliance on established regional employers rather than local .

Housing and Cost of Living

The housing market in Quispamsis is characterized by high homeownership rates, with 91.4% of the town's 6,855 occupied private dwellings owner-occupied based on 2021 data. Single-family homes dominate the inventory, reflecting the suburb's family-oriented development near Saint John. Median listing prices stood at $367,178 in September 2025, a 0.81% decline from , while benchmark prices in the broader market reached $327,600 for all property types, up 5.8% year-over-year. Homes in Quispamsis typically sell after 93 days on average, longer than the provincial norm, indicating a cooling market amid rising inventory. Rental options remain limited, comprising just 8.6% of dwellings, with average one-bedroom costs rising from $935 in 2016 to $1,052 by 2021 per municipal analysis. Recent data from nearby , a comparable Kings County community, shows median rents at $1,375 across property types in October 2025, suggesting similar pressures in Quispamsis due to regional demand from commuters. The town's Housing Action Strategy, adopted in April 2025, highlights affordability challenges despite average household incomes of $133,000—well above provincial norms—attributing strains to limited multi-unit development and proximity to urban job centers. Overall in Quispamsis is approximately 2% below national average but 1% above New Brunswick's, driven primarily by expenses that are lower than urban benchmarks yet rising with provincial trends. Utilities, groceries, and transportation align closely with provincial figures, benefiting from the area's suburban efficiencies, though property taxes and maintenance reflect higher local incomes and infrastructure standards.

Infrastructure

Transportation Networks

Quispamsis maintains approximately 200 kilometres of municipal roadways, which receive year-round upkeep including repairs responsive to freeze-thaw cycles, drainage improvements, maintenance, repairs, and updates. Winter operations prioritize arterial and collector roads before proceeding to secondary streets, with residents able to report issues through the Q-1-1 online system. measures, such as speed humps and , are implemented per municipal policy to address speeding and enhance safety on local streets. The town connects to New Brunswick's broader highway network, enabling efficient road access to nearby urban centers like Saint John, approximately 20 kilometres to the southeast, via controlled-access routes that form part of the provincial system. This integration supports commuter traffic and goods movement, though local congestion has been noted on routes linking Quispamsis to Saint John during peak hours. Public transit remains limited but expanding, with the KV Go demonstration project—launched August 11, 2025, in partnership with adjacent —providing free, accessible bus service to essential destinations including grocery stores, banks, medical clinics, parks, and municipal buildings. Operating weekdays on two fixed routes (Go1 and Go2) and weekends on an alternating single route, service runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with approximately 90-minute loop times and five transfer points; Go2 offers wheelchair accessibility, while Go1's is planned for later addition. Complementing this, the Comex Route 52 bus delivers weekday commuter service from Quispamsis to uptown Saint John, facilitating regional travel. Active transportation infrastructure, outlined in the town's 2011 plan, emphasizes and connectivity via a network of sidewalks, multi-use trails, and low-traffic streets to reduce reliance on motor vehicles. No local rail lines or airports operate within Quispamsis; the nearest facilities are (YSJ), about 30 minutes away by road, accessible via taxis, limousines, or regional shuttles.

Education and Public Services

Quispamsis is served by public schools operated under the Anglophone School District of the Department of and . Quispamsis Elementary School provides for students in through grade 5, emphasizing leadership development and community respect. Quispamsis Middle School serves grades 6 through 8. Kennebecasis Valley High School, established in 1975, accommodates secondary students in grades 9 through 12 and offers programs in academics, arts, and athletics. Private educational options include Valley Christian Academy, a member of the Association of Christian Schools International, offering faith-based instruction from through grade 12 at 30 Vincent Road. Public safety services in Quispamsis are provided through joint agreements with the adjacent Town of Rothesay. The Kennebecasis Regional Police Force, headquartered at 126 Millennium Drive, handles law enforcement, crime prevention, and non-emergency responses 24 hours a day for both municipalities. The Kennebecasis Valley Fire Department delivers fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency medical first response to approximately 31,000 residents across the two towns, with stations including one at 12 Civic Drive in Quispamsis. The town's Emergency Measures Organization maintains a comprehensive plan for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, including public education on personal emergency readiness. Municipal utilities include a town-operated water distribution and system, subject to annual quality audits and reporting; residents receive quarterly bills with fixed sewer charges and metered water components. The Kennebecasis Public Library, located at 1 Landing Court and administered by the Public Library Service, provides access to books, digital resources, and community programs. Environmental public services encompass bylaw enforcement for —such as regulated yard campfires—and sustainability initiatives like tree planting along the Quispamsis River Trail and participation in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' Partners for Climate Protection program since joining regional climate efforts in 2018.

Recreation and Community Life

Parks and Outdoor Facilities

Quispamsis maintains a network of municipal parks and outdoor facilities emphasizing recreational diversity, including beaches, trails, and specialized sports areas. These sites support activities such as , , , and picnicking, with amenities like playgrounds, boat launches, and picnic shelters. Facilities operate under rules prohibiting smoking and firearms in designated areas, requiring helmets for biking, and mandating leashed dogs on trails; many trails and playgrounds receive limited maintenance from October to April. Meenan's Cove Park, located at 199 Model Farm Road, serves as a central outdoor hub featuring a sandy beach on the Kennebecasis River suitable for sunbathing and , alongside a 750-meter with shoreline views and a . The park includes a , ball field, courts, boat launch, green spaces, and sheltered picnic areas, with a refurbished available for bookings accommodating events like weddings. Adjacent to this is the Millennium Cycle Bike Park at 21 Sycamore Drive, offering 20 s totaling over 7 kilometers of and natural surfaces rated from beginner to advanced, primarily for and events. It provides picnic tables, benches, and planned additions like washrooms and a bike repair station, open year-round from dawn to 10:00 p.m. The town's trail system spans more than 27 kilometers, designed to connect communities and support walking, hiking, and biking. Notable segments include the 4-kilometer Hammond River trails at 28 Reynar Drive, featuring groomed gravel paths with moderate steep climbs through natural terrain; the easy 1-kilometer Matthew's Cove trail at 31 Meenan's Cove Road, incorporating boardwalks and interpretive areas linking to the ; and the paved 3-kilometer QR Trail at Pettingill Road, plowed in winter for year-round access. A 6-kilometer section of the traverses Quispamsis, mixing gravel, boardwalk, and paved paths from Gondola Point Ferry toward , accommodating hiking and cycling with some steep inclines. Additional beaches, such as Gondola Point with its dog-friendly swimming area, complement these facilities for water-based recreation.

Cultural and Social Activities

Quispamsis hosts a range of cultural activities primarily centered at the Quispamsis Arts & Culture Park, which features the open-air George S. Miller Stage for performances and community gatherings throughout the year. The park serves as a hub for events blending , , and social interaction, drawing local residents for seasonal programming. Summer highlights include the recurring "Music, Movies and Movement in the Park" series, with Music in the Park and Movies in the Park held on Tuesday evenings during July and August, offering free outdoor entertainment. on July 1 features live entertainment, vendor markets, and family-oriented activities at the same venue. The International Culturefest in the Valley, scheduled for September 20 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, emphasizes multicultural engagement through , , performances, educational booths by community partners, and cultural exhibits. Winter and fall social events foster ties, such as the annual Lighting ceremony and the Fall Community Expo, which connects residents with local groups offering programs in music, dance, sports, and other pursuits. The expo, typically held in autumn, includes opportunities for children and parents to explore club memberships and organizational involvement. Quispamsis Recreation coordinates these initiatives, promoting participation via an events and updates on gatherings like fundraisers and food-focused experiences. initiatives, including environmental efforts like Cleaner Greener Quispamsis, further encourage social collaboration.

Notable Residents

Randy Jones, a former professional ice hockey , was born in Quispamsis on July 23, 1981. He played eight seasons in the National Hockey League, primarily with the from 2003 to 2010, appearing in 214 regular-season games and accumulating 48 points (10 goals, 38 assists). Jones also suited up for the and , concluding his NHL career in 2012 before playing in the and overseas. Rob Moore, a Conservative for Fundy Royal since his initial election in 2004, resides in Quispamsis with his family. Born in on May 14, 1974, Moore has held cabinet positions including Minister of State for Opportunities and Small Business under Stephen . He regained the seat in the 2021 federal election after a brief interruption.

References

  1. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/living-in-quispamsis/
  2. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/living-in-quispamsis/history-of-quispamsis/
  3. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=Quispamsis&DGUIDlist=2021A00051305057%2C2021S051213050126&GENDERlist=1%2C2%2C3&STATISTIClist=1&HEADERlist=0
  4. https://www.latlong.net/place/quispamsis-nb-canada-23767.html
  5. https://tourismnewbrunswick.ca/listing/town-quispamsis
  6. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/as-sa/fogs-spg/page.cfm?topic=1&lang=E&dguid=2021A00051305057
  7. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/parks/hammond-river-park/
  8. https://en-ca.topographic-map.com/map-s4wb3/Quispamsis/
  9. https://weatherspark.com/y/27855/Average-Weather-in-Saint-John-New-Brunswick-Canada-Year-Round
  10. https://www.currentresults.com/Weather/Canada/New-Brunswick/Places/st-john-temperatures-by-month-average.php
  11. https://climate.weather.gc.ca/climate_normals/results_1991_2020_e.html?searchType=stnProv&lstProvince=NB&txtCentralLatMin=0&txtCentralLatSec=0&txtCentralLongMin=0&txtCentralLongSec=0&stnID=22000&dispBack=0
  12. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g2102065-Activities-c57-Quispamsis_New_Brunswick.html
  13. https://www.comeexplorecanada.com/new-brunswick/quispamsis
  14. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/quispamsis-ritchie-lake-1.7403281
  15. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/public-safety-and-environment/
  16. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/52efdd04e4b0e9a106d08683/t/60ae86c41095563f095b87b9/1741033700341/Quispamsis%2BCC%2BAdaptation%2BPlan-compressed.pdf
  17. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/public-safety-and-environment/climate-change-initiatives/
  18. https://www.country94.ca/2021/07/21/quispamsis-introduces-land-acknowledgment-at-meetings/
  19. https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/quispamsis
  20. https://www.historicplaces.ca/en/rep-reg/place-lieu.aspx?id=10067
  21. https://archives2.gnb.ca/Exhibits/communities/Details.aspx?culture=en-CA&community=3217
  22. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2011/as-sa/fogs-spg/Facts-csd-eng.cfm?LANG=Eng&GK=CSD&GC=1305057
  23. https://www.quispamsis.ca/media/m5povnjs/quispamsis_housing-action-strategy-adopted-ver-date-2025-04-14.pdf
  24. https://www.ctvnews.ca/atlantic/new-brunswick/article/new-brunswick-to-receive-50-million-in-federal-funding-for-infrastructure-projects/
  25. https://globalnews.ca/news/5412771/quispamsis-survey-residents-on-amalgamation/
  26. https://www.careerbeacon.com/en/canada/new-brunswick/quispamsis
  27. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/
  28. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/mayor-and-council/
  29. https://www.country94.ca/2021/05/25/election-results-quispamsis/
  30. https://www.facebook.com/p/Libby-OHara-Mayor-of-Quispamsis-100066614416658/
  31. https://www.country94.ca/2021/06/07/new-quispamsis-council-sworn-in-2/
  32. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/mayor-and-council/councillor-kirk-miller/
  33. https://www.quispamsis.ca/news-and-notices/posts/quispamsis-town-council-selects-next-chief-administrative-officer/
  34. https://www.country94.ca/2024/08/26/new-quispamsis-cao-begins-his-role/
  35. https://globalnews.ca/news/10794827/new-brunswick-election-2024-results-quispamsis/
  36. https://www.electionsnb.ca/content/enb/en/maps/PED/provincial-electoral-distircts1.html
  37. https://www.legnb.ca/en/members/current
  38. https://pcnb.ca/blaine-higgs/
  39. https://www.ctvnews.ca/atlantic/article/my-future-has-been-decided-blaine-higgs-loses-seat-as-party-falls-in-nb-election/
  40. https://www.legnb.ca/en/members/current/200/kennedy-aaron
  41. https://nbliberal.ca/team-member/aaron-kennedy/
  42. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/nb-election-2024-1.7358873
  43. https://worldpopulationreview.com/canadian-cities/quispamsis
  44. https://www.nbjobs.ca/sites/default/files/2024-06-04-LMI-Population-Report-EN.pdf
  45. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/dp-pd/prof/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&SearchText=Quispamsis%2520%252D%2520Rothesay&DGUIDlist=2021S05101452&GENDERlist=1%2C2%2C3&STATISTIClist=1&HEADERlist=0
  46. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/new-brunswick-population-growth-1.7212235
  47. https://www.point2homes.com/CA/Demographics/NB/Quispamsis-Demographics.html
  48. https://www.point2homes.com/CA/Demographics/NB-Demographics.html
  49. https://www.nbjobs.ca/sites/default/files/2024-06/2024-06-12-LMI-SWProfile-Report-EN.pdf
  50. https://nhsjs.com/2024/multi-sectorial-approach-in-addressing-child-poverty-a-case-study-on-saint-john-canada/
  51. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/as-sa/fogs-spg/page.cfm?topic=12&dguid=2021A00051305057&lang=e
  52. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2021/as-sa/fogs-spg/alternative.cfm?topic=12&lang=e&dguid=2021A00051305057&objectId=6
  53. https://www.houseful.ca/market-trends/quispamsis-nb/
  54. https://creastats.crea.ca/board/nbreb/
  55. https://www.zumper.com/rent-research/rothesay-nb
  56. https://www.erieri.com/cost-of-living/canada/new-brunswick/quispamsis
  57. https://www.areavibes.com/quispamsis-nb/cost-of-living/
  58. https://www.salaryexpert.com/cost-of-living/canada/new-brunswick/quispamsis
  59. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/streets-and-transportation/
  60. https://www.gnb.ca/en/topic/driving-transportation/roads/maps-charts.html
  61. https://www.reddit.com/r/SaintJohnNB/comments/g9msxz/highway_between_saint_john_and_rothesay/
  62. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/kv-go/
  63. https://saintjohn.ca/en/transit/fares-and-passes/comex-service-rothesay-and-quispamsis
  64. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/streets-and-transportation/active-transportation/
  65. https://ysjsaintjohn.ca/transportation/
  66. https://www.facebook.com/QuispamElemSchool/
  67. https://quispamsismiddle.nbed.ca/
  68. https://vcaschool.com/
  69. https://kennebecasisregionalpolice.com/
  70. http://kvfire.ca/index.html
  71. https://www.facebook.com/KVFire/
  72. https://www.quispamsis.ca/town-government/public-safety-and-environment/emergency-measures-organization-emo/
  73. https://www.quispamsis.ca/home-streets-and-utilities/water-and-sewer/
  74. https://www1.gnb.ca/0003/pages/en/biblio-e.asp?CODE=FK
  75. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/parks/
  76. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/parks/millennium-cycle-bike-park/
  77. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/parks/meenan-s-cove-park/
  78. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/trails/
  79. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/water-activities/beaches/gondola-point-beach/
  80. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/parks/arts-culture-park/
  81. https://www.facebook.com/QuispamsisACPark/
  82. https://www.quispamsis.ca/recreation/events/
  83. https://www.quispamsis.ca/news-and-notices/posts/international-culturefest-in-the-valley-unveils-inspiring-pilot-program-at-2025-festival/
  84. https://www.discoversaintjohn.com/event/fall-community-expo
  85. https://www.facebook.com/quispamsis.recreation/
  86. https://www.nhl.com/player/randy-jones-8470905
  87. https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/j/jonesra01.html
  88. https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/10326/randy-jones
  89. https://www.robmoore.ca/about_rob_moore
  90. https://lop.parl.ca/sites/ParlInfo/default/en_CA/People/Profile?personId=15894
  91. https://www.ourcommons.ca/members/en/rob-moore%2817210%29
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