KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) City crews are preparing to fan out across Keene this summer for a concentrated, five-week push to spruce up neighborhoods and tackle long-standing infrastructure issues—one ward at a time.

The initiative, known as Ward Optimization Weeks (WOW!), returns starting July 7 with a renewed focus on equity, efficiency and community engagement.

Public Works Director Don Lussier says the program, which debuted last fall to strong community feedback, aims to “bring a sharper focus to resident concerns while ensuring all parts of the city receive the maintenance attention they deserve.”

From filling potholes and repainting crosswalks to trimming vegetation and inspecting storm drains, crews will be tackling an array of infrastructure and quality-of-life concerns. Residents are being encouraged to speak up about what needs attention by logging non-emergency maintenance requests using the SeeClickFix app or online at SeeClickFix.com/Keene.

The 2025 WOW! schedule begins in Ward 5 (July 7–11), then rotates weekly through Wards 4, 3, 2, and 1, wrapping up by August 8.

WOW! 2025 Maintenance Schedule:

  • Ward 5: July 7–11

  • Ward 4: July 14–18

  • Ward 3: July 21–25

  • Ward 2: July 28–August 1

  • Ward 1: August 4–8

City staff will handle everything from traffic sign replacement and sidewalk repairs to graffiti removal and hydrant painting. Officials say the approach allows for faster response times and helps build community pride by giving neighborhoods a noticeable facelift.

For those who have trouble accessing SeeClickFix, requests can also be made by calling the Public Works Department directly at 603-352-6550.

In addition to WOW!, Keene residents are being invited to weigh in on the city’s long-term future. The Vision Keene Future Summit is set for Tuesday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Heberton Hall at the Keene Public Library. There, the city will unveil the final draft of its new Comprehensive Master Plan—a strategic 15-year roadmap designed to guide growth, infrastructure investments, and development through 2040.

This will be the final opportunity for public input before the plan is finalized. Registration details and more information are available at KeeneMasterPlan.com