Beloeil is a municipality located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, Canada. It is situated about 35 kilometers east of Montreal and is part of the Agglomération de Longueuil.
Geography
Beloeil is nestled between the Saint Lawrence River to the south and Lake Stukely to the north. The municipality has a total area of approximately 53.17 square kilometers, with a mix of urban, rural, and wooded areas. The terrain is relatively flat, with some hills and valleys in the northern part of the municipality.
Climate
Beloeil experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -10°C to 0°C. Springs are mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually warming up to around 20°C by June. Summers are warm and humid, with average high temperatures of 25°C to 28°C. Autumns are generally cool and crisp, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C to 10°C.
Population
As of the 2021 census, Beloeil has a population of approximately 18,000 residents. The municipality is a diverse community with a mix of young families, retirees, and working professionals. English is widely spoken in addition to French, reflecting the multicultural nature of the area.
Economy
Beloeil’s economy is primarily driven by small businesses, retail trade, and services. The municipality has a relatively high concentration of restaurants, convenience stores, and other types of shops catering to local needs. A few larger businesses, such as automotive repair shops and industrial suppliers, also have operations in the area.
Tourism
Beloeil offers various attractions for tourists, including:
- Lake Stukely: This large lake is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking during the warmer months.
- Parc Saint-Jean-Baptiste: A scenic park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, ideal for outdoor activities and family gatherings.
- Bike paths and cycling routes: Beloeil has developed extensive bike paths that connect to neighboring municipalities and regional parks, making it an attractive destination for cyclists.
- Outdoor recreation: The municipality offers various outdoor recreational opportunities, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking.
Demographics
Beloeil’s population is characterized by:
- Age distribution: 22% of residents are under the age of 15, while 23% are between 65 and 74 years old.
- Marital status: 54% of households are composed of married couples or common-law partners.
- Language spoken at home: French is the primary language spoken in 93% of households, with English spoken by 7%.
- Education: Approximately 25% of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Infrastructure
Beloeil has invested heavily in its infrastructure to support economic growth and enhance quality of life for its residents:
- Water supply: The municipality has access to a reliable water supply system through the Longueuil Agglomeration.
- Sewage system: Beloeil’s sewage system is part of the larger network managed by the Longueuil Agglomération, ensuring efficient waste management.
- Transportation infrastructure: The municipality is connected to Montreal via the Autoroute 20 highway and has regular public transportation services.
History
Beloeil was established in 1965 through a merger of several neighboring municipalities. Over the years, the community has grown and evolved into the vibrant town it is today, with an active business sector, a strong sense of community, and access to recreational activities and natural attractions.
In summary, Beloeil, Quebec offers a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike, with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, economic opportunities, and modern infrastructure.