Summerside is a vibrant Canadian city in Prince County, Prince Edward Island. It is the second largest city in the province and serves as the primary service center for the western part of the island. 

 

Officially incorporated as a town on April 1, 1877, Summerside later amalgamated with other communities in 1995, becoming PEI's second incorporated city after Charlottetown.

 

The city's history is deeply rooted in its energy sector. The City of Summerside operates the only municipally owned electric utility in Prince Edward Island. 

 

Summerside Electric, similar to Maritime Electric, sources a significant portion of its electricity from NB Power and operates its diesel engines for backup power. 

 

Summerside is not only known for its energy initiatives but also for its cultural and culinary experiences. The city offers a range of attractions, including Holman's Ice Cream Parlour, a popular spot for homemade gourmet ice cream. 

 

Additionally, Summerside hosts various events and activities, such as art exhibitions, live music performances, and film screenings, providing a rich tapestry of entertainment for residents and visitors alike.

 

With its picturesque location along Bedeque Bay and Northumberland Strait, Summerside offers a blend of coastal charm, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. 

 

The city's commitment to sustainability is evident through initiatives like supporting clean electric vehicles and investing in renewable energy sources, making it a progressive and environmentally conscious community.

 

Summerside's diverse offerings, from its scenic waterfront to its cultural attractions and culinary delights, make it a captivating destination, embodying Prince Edward Island's charm and hospitality.

 

History of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside, a city in Prince County, Prince Edward Island, has a rich history that dates back to its early days as a town. 

 

Officially incorporated on April 1, 1877, Summerside expanded its boundaries through amalgamation with neighbouring communities like St. Eleanors and Wilmot in 1995, becoming PEI's second incorporated city after Charlottetown. 

 

The city's name comes from an inn owned by George Linkletter II, the Summer Side House. One significant aspect of Summerside's history lies in its energy sector. 

 

The City of Summerside operates the only municipally-owned electric utility in Prince Edward Island, with a history that includes the acquisition of Charlottetown Light & Power in 1918. 

 

Summerside Electric, akin to Maritime Electric, sources most of its electricity from NB Power and operates its diesel engines for backup power. 

 

The city established Canada's first municipally owned and operated wind farm in West Cape, contributing significantly to its electricity needs.

 

Over the years, Summerside has evolved into a modern city that embraces sustainability and innovation. The city's commitment to clean energy is evident through initiatives like the wind farm project and support for electric vehicles. 

 

Summerside's cultural landscape has also flourished, offering a range of attractions, events, and culinary experiences that showcase the city's vibrant spirit and community engagement.

 

Summerside's history reflects a blend of tradition and progress, making it a dynamic city that honours its past while embracing the future through sustainable practices and a diverse cultural scene.

 

Geography of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

The city of Summerside, in Prince County, Prince Edward Island, is in the western part of the island. It lies northwest of Charlottetown, along Bedeque Bay and the Northumberland Strait. 

 

The city covers an area of 28.49 km² (11.00 sq mi) and has a population of 14,829 as of 2016. Its density is 520/km² (1,300/sq mi). 

 

Summerside was officially incorporated as a town on April 1, 1877, and later became a city on April 1, 1995, following amalgamation with neighbouring communities like St. Eleanors and Wilmot. The city's motto is "Small city. Big opportunity."

 

Summerside's geographical coordinates are approximately 46°23′36″N latitude and 63°47′25″W longitude. The city's elevation ranges from sea level to 29 meters (0 to 95.1 feet). 

 

It operates the only municipally owned electric utility in Prince Edward Island, with a history dating back to the acquisition of Charlottetown Light & Power in 1918. 

 

The city's energy sector includes a wind farm project in West Cape, Canada's first municipally owned and operated wind farm, contributing significantly to Summerside's electricity needs.

 

Summerside's commitment to sustainability is evident through its support for clean electric vehicles, with numerous electric car charging stations in the city. 

 

The city's landscape, characterized by rolling hills in central Queens County and level stretches in western Prince County, offers a picturesque setting for residents and visitors alike.

 

Demographics of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

As of the 2016 census, Summerside's population was 14,829, making it the second-largest city in Prince Edward Island. The city covers an area of 28.49 km² (11.00 sq mi) and has a population density of 520/km² (1,300/sq mi).

 

In 2011, Summerside had 6,269 private dwellings occupied by usual residents, a change of 5.8% from 2006. The median age in Summerside in 2011 was 44.1, compared to 42.8 for Prince Edward Island as a whole.

 

Summerside had 4,295 census families in 2011, a decrease of 0.3% from 2006. 66.8% of these families were married, 5.9% were common-law couples, and 27.3% were lone-parent families.

 

In 2011, 57.0% of Summerside's population aged 15 and over were married (47.6%) or living with a common-law partner (9.3%). The remaining 43.1% were not married and not living with a common-law partner.

 

54.6% of private households in Summerside lived in single-detached houses in 2011, while 0.0% lived in apartments in buildings with five or more storeys.

 

Economy of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada's economy is diverse and rapidly growing, focusing on various sectors contributing to its economic vibrancy. 

 

Summerside is emerging as one of the most accessible and competitive markets in North America, offering a range of opportunities for businesses and residents alike. 

 

The city's economic base includes agricultural service industries, government offices, and a growing emphasis on knowledge-based industries such as aerospace, information technology, food processing, and manufacturing.

 

Summerside's value proposition for business development is strengthened by its central location in PEI, with a trade area population of 45,000, proximity to major markets in Canada and the northeastern United States, and competitive business environment with lower real estate and labour costs compared to many North American markets. 

 

The city has over 1,000 businesses employing over 7,000 workers, reflecting a diverse economy that stabilizes existing businesses and residents.

 

Moreover, Summerside's commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its energy initiatives, including Canada's first municipally owned and operated wind farm, which contributes significantly to the city's electricity needs. 

 

The city's support for clean electric vehicles, with numerous electric car charging stations, showcases its dedication to environmental responsibility and modern infrastructure.

 

As Summerside continues to experience population growth driven by international and interprovincial migration, the city's economy is evolving to meet the demands of a growing workforce and expanding business community. 

 

The city's economic development strategy focuses on attracting and retaining skilled labour, supporting ongoing business growth, and diversifying its economy to ensure long-term sustainability and prosperity.

 

Education in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside, Prince Edward Island, offers a range of educational opportunities for its residents and visitors. The city is home to The College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada, a renowned institution celebrating Celtic culture through music and dance. 

 

Additionally, Summerside provides access to quality education through its schools, ensuring residents have a strong educational foundation.

 

Moreover, Prince Edward Island has a well-established higher education system, offering various programs and courses to students. 

 

The province boasts institutions like the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) and Holland College, which provide diverse educational pathways for individuals seeking higher education opportunities.

 

Overall, Summerside's educational landscape is enriched by its cultural institutions and commitment to providing a well-rounded learning experience for its residents, contributing to the city's vibrant and diverse community.

 

Transport System of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

The transport system in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada, is an integral part of the city's infrastructure, supporting the mobility of residents and visitors. 

 

While the sources do not provide specific details about Summerside's transport system, it can be inferred that the city likely has a well-connected road network to facilitate local and regional travel. 

 

Additionally, as mentioned in the sources, Summerside's proximity to major markets in Canada and the northeastern United States suggests that the city is accessible by various modes of transportation, including highways, airports, and possibly seaports.

 

The city's commitment to sustainability and innovation, as evidenced by its support for clean electric vehicles and renewable energy sources, may also extend to its transportation system, potentially incorporating eco-friendly initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental responsibility.

 

Overall, while specific details about the transport system in Summerside are not explicitly outlined in the provided sources, the city's strategic location, commitment to sustainability, and diverse economic landscape likely contribute to a well-developed and efficient transport system that meets the needs of its residents and supports its growing economy.

 

Living in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside, the second largest city in Prince Edward Island, offers a high quality of life with its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse economy, and abundant services and amenities. 

 

The city's population is approximately 16,000, which increases substantially during the summer. Summerside serves as the regional center for Western PEI, drawing from a market population of over 45,000.

 

The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, a safe and healthy community, and affordable real estate. Residents enjoy world-class recreational facilities, clean air, and a peaceful, tranquil environment. 

 

Commuting to work and getting around in your spare time is easy, with direct major highway access, modern port facilities, and a first-class international airport just 45 minutes away.

 

Summerside is committed to sustainability and innovation, with initiatives like Canada's first municipally owned and operated wind farm, which produces about 25% of the city's electricity daily. The city also supports clean electric vehicles, with over ten charging stations and plans for 30 more.

 

The city's downtown area features a vibrant atmosphere with various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Harbourfront Theatre, the College of Piping, and the Celtic Performing Arts of Canada. Outdoor entertainment, fireworks, and festivals add to the lively ambiance throughout the year.

 

With its exceptional quality of life, diverse economy, and commitment to sustainability, Summerside offers a superior community where to live, work, and play.

 

Healthcare in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside offers quality healthcare services to its residents. The Prince County Hospital is the city's primary healthcare facility. The hospital provides a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.

 

In addition to the Prince County Hospital, Summerside has several clinics that offer specialized medical services. These clinics ensure that residents have access to various healthcare options within the city.

 

Prince Edward Island's healthcare system is publicly funded and provides free, high-quality healthcare to all residents. This system ensures that every resident of Summerside has access to necessary medical care, regardless of their financial situation.

 

The city's commitment to maintaining a healthy community is evident through its focus on providing quality healthcare services to its residents. Summerside's healthcare infrastructure and the province's publicly funded healthcare system work together to ensure the city's residents can access the necessary medical care.

 

Tourist places in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Top Tourist Places in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

1. Holman's Ice Cream Parlour - A premium destination for homemade gourmet ice cream and delicious desserts.
2. Harbourfront Theatre - An intimate and acoustically superb theatre on the beautiful Summerside waterfront.
3. College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada - Celebrates Celtic culture through music and dance.
4. Summerside Arts Festival - An annual festival showcasing local and regional artists.
5. The Lefurgey Cultural Centre - Hosts art exhibitions, live music performances, and film screenings.
6. MacNaught History Centre & Archives - Preserves and promotes the history and heritage of Summerside and Prince County.
7. Bottle Houses - Unique structures built using glass bottles, located in nearby Wellington.
8. Green Gables Heritage Place - A historic site in Cavendish, about an hour's drive from Summerside, that inspired the setting of the Anne of Green Gables novels.

 

Summerside offers a blend of coastal charm, cultural heritage, and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for tourists seeking an authentic Prince Edward Island experience.

 

Local Food of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Summerside, Prince Edward Island, is known for its delicious local food offerings that showcase the province's agricultural bounty and coastal cuisine. Here are some of the top local food specialties to try in the city:

 

Seafood

Summerside is a coastal city renowned for its fresh and flavorful seafood. Some must-try dishes include:

• Lobster - PEI is famous for its succulent lobster, which can be enjoyed in various preparations like lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and whole steamed lobster.
• Mussels - Prince Edward Island is one of the world's largest producers of cultivated mussels, known for their sweet flavor and tender texture.
• Oysters - The island's cold, clean waters produce some of the best oysters in Canada, with varieties like Malpeque oysters being a local favorite.

 

Potatoes

Prince Edward Island is renowned for its potatoes, which are used in many local dishes. Some popular potato-based foods include:

• French fries - Often made with PEI potatoes, these crispy fries are a staple side dish.
• Potato salad - A classic summer dish featuring boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and various seasonings and vegetables.
• Potato soup - A hearty and comforting soup made with potatoes, cream, and often bacon or ham.

 

Dairy Products

The island's dairy industry produces high-quality milk, cheese, and ice cream. Some notable dairy products include:

• Cows Creamery cheese - This local creamery produces award-winning cheeses like cheddar and curds.
• Holman's Ice Cream - A beloved ice cream parlour in Summerside known for its flavours of homemade, gourmet ice cream.
• Dairy Bar soft serve - Many local dairy bars offer soft serve ice cream, often featuring unique flavors like maple or Moose Tracks.

 

By sampling these local food specialties, visitors can experience the authentic flavors that make Prince Edward Island and Summerside unique culinary destinations.

 

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