KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) — The City of Keene is moving forward with preparations for a major downtown infrastructure project aimed at revitalizing key areas through extensive utility and roadway improvements. To ensure the project meets community needs with minimal disruption, city officials are actively seeking input from downtown businesses and residents.

The multi-year project will involve the reconstruction of outdated water, sewer, and stormwater systems beneath several key streets, including Central Square, Main Street, Gilbo Avenue, and Railroad Square. As construction approaches, the city has launched a web survey to collect crucial information from local stakeholders. This survey will gather details about business operations, parking locations, delivery schedules, and access needs to help city planners accommodate the community during the construction period. The survey is available on the city’s website at KeeneNH.gov/downtown, where additional resources, including a project visualization tool, can also be accessed.

Public engagement has been a priority for the city, which hosted three workshops in late June at the Keene Public Library. These sessions provided an overview of the project, discussed traffic management and parking plans, and offered a platform for community feedback. The survey is meant for those who weren’t able to attend those meetings.

Concerns from downtown business owners were prominent at these meetings. Many expressed worries about how three years of construction could impact their operations. Other business owners echoed similar concerns, particularly regarding how construction might deter customers due to limited parking and access.

The city has endorsed a $1.23 million design contract with engineering firm Stantec, which has been involved since the project’s conceptual phase. The final design phase will translate preliminary plans into detailed construction documents.

City officials, including Public Works Director Don Lussier, acknowledge the challenges ahead but emphasize their commitment to minimizing the impact on businesses and residents and are focused on proactive communication to keep the community informed about traffic changes and disruptions.

The construction will be completed in three phases, starting with Central Square and moving south through Gilbo Avenue and Railroad Square before finishing with Main Street.

As the project progresses, the city is encouraging downtown residents and business owners to share their concerns through the ongoing survey, emphasizing the importance of community feedback in shaping the project’s approach.

The full City Council is set to review the project on August 1, with construction likely beginning in 2026 in three phases if approved. For more information or to participate in the survey, visit KeeneNH.gov/downtown or contact the City of Keene’s public works department at 352-6550.