KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The City of Keene’s Downtown Infrastructure Improvement Project is moving forward, with a final design recommendation set for presentation at the December meeting of the City Council’s Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure (MSFI) Committee.

This public meeting will provide a final opportunity for residents to weigh in on the design before construction begins, according to a news release from city staff. Once the date is confirmed, the city will publish notifications through various channels, including KeeneNH.gov, social media, and press releases. Key documents will also be available on the project’s webpage.

The final design, developed after a comprehensive analysis, reflects priorities established by the City Council last July, including utility coordination, geotechnical investigations, and permit applications, the release said. Major design elements aim to preserve downtown’s character while improving accessibility, safety, and environmental sustainability. Some highlights of the design include:

  • Retaining the current single-lane Central Square traffic pattern and emergency vehicle routes.
  • Maintaining two lanes for Main Street’s northbound and southbound traffic.
  • Preserving U-turn options on Main Street while eliminating median parking, ensuring no loss in total parking spaces.
  • Planting additional trees and expanding pedestrian spaces with 10-foot sidewalk commerce zones.
  • Adding protected bike lanes, raised crosswalks, and enhanced pedestrian connectivity around Central Square.
  • Enhancing Railroad Square with a pedestrian-focused layout, new benches, more trees, and a gateway arch with a railroad theme.
  • Considering a solar pavilion along Gilbo Avenue, contingent on grant funding, to offer additional shaded parking.

The first phase of construction, focusing on Central Square, is slated to begin in May 2025.

Public Engagement and Project Updates

As construction approaches, the Public Works Department is planning “Coffee and Hard Hats” monthly meetups in downtown Keene. These gatherings will allow residents and business owners to hear project updates, ask questions, and provide feedback. Details regarding dates and times will be announced soon.

The city is also hiring a project ombudsman to assist the community by addressing concerns and facilitating communication throughout the construction process. Subscribers to the project’s website will receive timely notifications on potential impacts to traffic, parking, and accessibility. Residents are encouraged to register for email or text alerts at KeeneNH.gov/Downtown.

For ongoing updates, the MSFI Committee will host monthly public sessions beginning closer to the start of construction. These meetings, held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m., will be accessible both in person at City Hall and online.

The City of Keene remains committed to keeping the community informed and engaged as this project unfolds. Residents can contact Public Works at 352-6550 or email pwinfo@KeeneNH.gov for more information.