Meeting Notes October 3, 2023

On the evening of October 3rd, 2023, the CCRC and Friends of Fundy with the support of the Rural Upper Fundy Partnership (RUFP) co-hosted an open conversation about the future of the 114/915 crossroads corner in Riverside-Albert. From the region between Hillsborough and Alma, an interested and invested 30+ people attended, led by consultant Lisa Hrabluk as facilitator.  Stories, tales, trials and tribulations were shared about the Old Bank of New Brunswick and the surrounding corner. This engaged group not only reminisced but reflected on what the future of this area could be.

What we discovered can be condensed into 4 main points.  

The Old Bank of New Brunswick that resides at the corner, holds significant historic and personal value to the residents.  There was a lively discussion, with much laughter and smiles from residents who remember when the bank was a working bank. They told stories about the robbery, about their personal relationship to the bank and how they admired the passion and singular vision of Mary Majka to convert the bank into a museum and preserve it. Between the robbery, the cafe and the museum, everyone has a connection to this building and there is great interest in seeing it come to life again. Many Ideas were suggested for its transformation -  from coffee shops, to pubs, to adventure eco-tourism and UNESCO hubs and more. This building is the main visual connection to the crossroads and holds a great deal of sentimental value to the community. 

The Anderson Hollow Lighthouse should be moved back to its former resting space along the Crooked Creek, beside the Old Bank of New Brunswick. Currently at its more remote location, it has been subject to weather, vandalism and neglect. While this lighthouse has seen a few different locations, it needs a new permanent and safe residence.  A home where locals and tourists alike can enjoy the beauty, take photos and touch a piece of history.  By moving the lighthouse, it stays in our hearts and our sights. Coming soon, there will be a fundraising element to raise money to have this lighthouse professionally and properly lifted and moved to the crossroads for all to enjoy. 

Something that was unanimous, was that future development needs to be Community-First.  Understanding that yes, we thrive on tourism in this area, we still have many communities with families and small businesses here. Members of our community would like a place to order a coffee, have a meeting, or buy and promote local produce, goods and services. This could look like many different things as we are overflowing with talent and growth but it was clear that the development at the crossroads was an opportunity to be year-round and self-sustaining.  There are already community members stepping forward to offer grant and investment opportunities. 

Lastly, everyone agrees that the 114/915 crossroads corner needs to be the centre of Riverside-Albert. The corner is a beautiful place, which is why it should be developed in a way that honours and supports community values of sustainability, safety, beauty, and historic preservation. It is central geographically and it is the centre root of our community. 

We have the opportunity to have and provide for ourselves here.  We can have new businesses, new money inserted into our community and new interests piqued. It can be a place for others to check in, meet up, rest, rejuvenate, and enjoy the unique beauty of the area.  It can be a destination unto itself. 

Here is a quick list of many of the wonderful ideas that were brought up at the meeting: Boardwalk, ice cream shops, coffee, sandwiches, cafe, pub, bakery, craft village, small boutique hotel, souvenirs, jewelry, crafts, local artists, farmers markets, kayak and trail hub, shuttle services, outdoor adventure combined with local culture. 

The CCRC will be planning another community meeting to further this discussion. If you have anything that you would like us to know, please email at chipoudycrc@gmail.com. 

Stay tuned for further updates and plans regarding the 114/915 Crossroads Corner. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us and participated in what was a lively and informative evening.  We look forward to where this road takes us.

Audra and David Jacombs, Board members of CCRC

Micha Fardy, Executive Director of Friends of Fundy and Administrative lead of RUFP