KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Next week, the City of Keene will conduct a detailed parking assessment in its downtown area to gather insights into parking patterns and trends.

The assessment, which will be conducted in partnership with engineering firm Weston and Sampson, is set to take place over three days—next Thursday, Oct. 17 through Saturday, Oct. 19, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., weather permitting, according to a news release.

The study will focus on both public parking lots and on-street parking in key areas surrounding Central Square, Main Street, Court Street, and several other streets in the downtown vicinity. The goal is to better understand the city’s parking needs and usage, which will inform future planning efforts, the release said.

To collect data efficiently, the city will use a drone, which will fly at an altitude of around 200 feet. The drone, operated by an FAA-certified pilot, will capture images and information that will contribute to a comprehensive parking trend analysis. All operations will be conducted in line with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.

City officials have coordinated with the Keene Police Department, Public Works Department, and Keene Airport to ensure the project runs smoothly. In case of bad weather, updates regarding rescheduled observation dates will be posted on the city’s website and social media platforms.

For more information or questions about the assessment, residents are encouraged to contact City Engineer Bryan Ruoff at the Public Works Department at 352-6550.