KEENE, NH – The City of Keene has released an informational update on the Downtown Reconstruction project.

The project is still in the design phase, and it’s been a point of contention in the community with residents and downtown business owners against making any changes to the look of Central Square.

A recommendation from the Ad Hoc committee on the project would see a small round about being put in ahead of the square, and an expansion of green space in the square, eliminating the road and parking spaces at the head. Those spaces would be replaced by parking spaces on each side of the expansion area.

In the update, the city reiterated that the project needs to happen now because the infrastructure underneath the road has reached the end of the line and needs to be replaced before any bigger issues arise. The update also notes that the design options do not impact the length of the project, it will take about three years to complete regardless.

While the road needs to be dug up to replace the infrastructure either way, what gets put back has been the major point of contention with the project. Many community members don’t want to see the square change and want it put back exactly as it is now, citing concerns for parking, traffic, and the historic nature of Central Square.

A “Save the Square” initiative has been launched and organizers have held numerous protests against any change. The “Save the Square” Facebook page has garnered about 1,000 followers and continues to share information on the project.

Mayor George Hansel has scheduled a pair of public workshops to allow the community to ask questions, make comments, and learn more about the project. The first is set for January 30th beginning at 5 pm at the Keene Public Library, the second is on February 21st beginning at 6 pm at the Keene High School.

Hansel joined WKBK earlier this week and discussed the project. The full discussion is available here. The full informational update on the project from the city of Keene is available here.