KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) At the Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure Committee meeting of the Keene City Council last night, a range of updates regarding ongoing downtown projects and infrastructure improvements were discussed. Among the key topics were the progress of the downtown construction project, sidewalk café licenses, traffic safety initiatives.

Banner Project for Downtown

A proposal to display banners across Main Street was met with mixed reactions. Business owners supported the idea, citing the economic benefits of promoting local events, but concerns were raised about the cost and legal implications of using public space for banners. Keene Public Works Director Don Lussier provided technical details about the installation, noting that it would require substantial infrastructure. A decision on the project will be postponed for further research and planning.

Traffic and Safety Concerns

Traffic safety was also a key topic, with updates on the Route 9 restriping project. The project, which was delayed due to snow last fall, is now expected to be completed within the next four to six weeks. The Department of Transportation will cover the costs for this work.

roundabout at the hazardous intersection of Route 9 and Whitcomb’s Mill Road. The intersection, which lacks turning lanes and has steep terrain with limited visibility, has a history of fatal accidents. With a new 12-unit residential complex set to increase traffic, Jones stressed the urgency of improvements.

The council voted unanimously to draft a letter to state officials, including the DOT Commissioner and the Governor, advocating for a roundabout roundabout at the intersection of Route 9 and Whitcomb’s Mill Road. The intersection, which lacks turning lanes and has steep terrain with limited visibility, has a history of fatal accidents. With a new 12-unit residential complex set to increase traffic, the improvements would be timely. The goal is to accelerate safety upgrades, bypassing the standard 10-year state planning process.

Additionally, the committee discussed a proposal to install a stop sign at the intersection of Wilbur Street and Water Street to improve safety, particularly for westbound traffic on Water Street. The committee voted to move forward with drafting an ordinance for the stop sign installation.

Peace Pole on Central Square

The proposal for a peace pole in Central Square in Keene is still undecided. Initially, the city council discussed the possibility of integrating a peace monument into the design of the central square fountain as part of the Downtown Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction project. However, as the project moved forward, it became uncertain whether this would happen. As a result, the issue was revisited at the MSFI meeting on Wednesday, where it was decided to delay further action and allow city staff more time to explore design options, with or without the fountain inclusion.

Cemetery Expansion

The committee also approved the addition of 27 cremation lots at Monadnock View Cemetery. The expansion will not interfere with existing graves and will help address the growing demand for cremation spaces. The approval process followed city code requirements.
Keene Skate Park and Former Findings Property Redevelopment

The redevelopment of the former Findings property was also discussed, with plans for a new skate park and green space. A conceptual rendering was presented, and work is already underway on surveys and environmental assessments. Construction plans are expected to be finalized by the end of April, with the installation of a bocce ball court and other amenities anticipated in the coming months.
Downtown Infrastructure Project Update

Downtown Infrastructure Project Update

One of the main concerns for downtown business owners, particularly those with sidewalk cafés, is how the ongoing construction will impact their operations. Initially, a proposed ordinance allowed the Public Works director to revoke café licenses during construction, but after receiving pushback, the proposal was withdrawn. Instead, the city plans to meet with current license holders on April 7th to discuss realistic expectations for dining during the construction, which may include disruptions like gravel surfaces and dust. The city aims to work closely with café owners to manage the flow of tables and coordinate temporary removals where necessary.
Farmers Market and Event Relocation

The ongoing construction is expected to affect events like the Farmers Market, especially when work on Gilbo Avenue begins in 2027. Planners are already considering alternative locations for the market and other events to ensure adequate space, parking, and security, minimizing disruptions for the community.

In positive news, the city received a grant from the Northern Borders Regional Commission for the installation of a solar pavilion on Gilbo Avenue. The grant is moving forward, with paperwork expected to be completed soon. The city will hire a consulting team to design the pavilion, ensuring it integrates with the downtown revitalization plans.

Seven applicants have applied for the project ombudsman position, and geotechnical assessments are proceeding to ensure proper foundation support for traffic signals and other roadwork.