KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene Parks and Recreation Director Carrah Fiske Hennessey shared updates on several of the department’s largest ongoing projects and upcoming programs during an appearance on Good Morning with Dan Mitchell Friday on WKBK Radio. The complete interview is embedded below.

Among the biggest topics was the long-awaited renovation of Robin Hood Park, where the city’s aging pool is losing an estimated 5,000 to 8,000 gallons of water each day because of deterioration along the gutter line. Hennessey said the first phase of the project is focused entirely on rehabilitating the pool by installing a heavy-duty PVC liner to stop the leaks while also making accessibility improvements. City officials hope to bid the project this fall without sacrificing a summer swimming season.

She also discussed plans for the park’s second phase, which remains in development. A community steering committee is refining concepts that include a new playground with nature-based features, a multi-sport court, expanded programming space, improved public restrooms and traffic and parking changes. Two updated concept plans are expected to be unveiled for public feedback this fall, with construction targeted for fiscal year 2028.

Hennessey highlighted another significant project at Ashuelot River Park, where about two acres of newly donated land will be transformed into additional public park space. Plans call for a nature-inspired playground, more parking, public restrooms and improved river access for kayakers. An anonymous $35,000 donation is funding the park’s conceptual design, and residents will have an opportunity to review proposals and offer feedback during Art in the Park over Labor Day weekend.

The interview also addressed the city’s ongoing forest regeneration efforts following the red pine harvest along Maple Avenue. Hennessey said natural regrowth has exceeded expectations, and the Parks and Recreation Department plans to begin invasive species management this fall while working with local educators to turn the site into an outdoor learning opportunity for students. Informational signage explaining the area’s conservation easements and ecological restoration is also planned.

Looking ahead, Hennessey previewed several upcoming environmental and recreation programs, including Keene’s participation in the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests’ Open Woods Day on Aug. 8 at Goose Pond and the city’s first time hosting the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension’s 12-week Natural Resource Stewards program this fall.

She also highlighted the remainder of the summer recreation schedule, including pump track bike races, Movies Under the Stars, concerts, themed pool parties and the department’s transition into fall youth sports, after-school activities and expanded adult recreation offerings. The city’s new skate park is expected to receive its official ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 10.

Listen to the full interview: