KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) As the construction season nears its close, two of Keene’s major infrastructure projects are shifting gears.

On Island Street, crews are finishing the last stretch of work before the project pauses for the winter. The city’s contractor, SUR West, is completing final utility replacements, while Liberty Utilities wraps up gas main improvements in the area. Once underground work concludes, paving crews are expected to finish resurfacing the street by the end of October, weather permitting.

To ensure the area stays accessible through the colder months, temporary asphalt sidewalks will be installed before winter sets in. Those will be replaced with permanent concrete sidewalks when construction resumes in spring 2026.

Meanwhile, work is set to begin this month on the Marlboro Street Reconstruction Project. The city has awarded the contract to Bazin Brothers Trucking, Inc., with the first phase of construction beginning October 20.

Because of the late start in the season, this fall’s efforts will center on improvements to the Cheshire Rail Trail near Marlboro Street. Full road reconstruction is scheduled to start in April 2026, once the ground thaws and conditions improve.

City officials say they will share further construction and traffic updates before work resumes in the spring.

“We appreciate residents’ patience as we continue investing in Keene’s infrastructure,” the city said in its latest update.

Questions about either project can be directed to the city’s Public Works Department at 352-6550 or by email at PWinfo@keenenh.gov.