KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Efforts to enhance safety at the intersection of Route 9 and the old Sullivan Road section were a focus of last night’s Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure committee meeting involving city officials and the Department of Transportation (DOT). City engineer Brian Ruoff has developed a revised striping plan aimed at addressing ongoing safety concerns at the busy crossing.

Initially, the city’s proposal involved converting a passing lane into a dedicated left-turn lane. However, the DOT raised objections, recommending instead the implementation of a hatched lane. This alternative design discourages passing while turning, thereby reducing potential conflicts and improving safety without eliminating the passing lane entirely.

The city had been prepared to execute the new striping plan, but freezing rain forced a delay. According to officials, the application of the striping requires temperatures of at least 45 degrees and rising to ensure proper adherence to the road surface. With purchase orders and permits already in place, the city is poised to proceed as soon as weather conditions allow.

During the discussion, officials also explored additional measures to improve safety at the intersection. Suggestions included raising the road or filling in a low-visibility area on the Keene side of the intersection. These measures would address visibility issues that have been a longstanding concern for drivers.

The city is working to have this intersection added to the DOT’s 10-year plan. Officials are hopeful that by advocating for prioritization, the project could receive earlier attention and funding.

As part of the next steps, the city manager or attorney was directed to make a formal motion authorizing the city manager to implement the engineer’s recommendations as soon as weather conditions permit. City leaders emphasized the importance of taking swift action to improve safety at the intersection for all road users.