KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council’s Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure (MSFI) Committee met Wednesday to discuss ongoing downtown infrastructure improvements and receive an update on the Route 101 reconstruction project.

Downtown Improvements Move Forward

The committee finalized several design decisions regarding the city’s downtown revitalization project. Among them was a consensus to keep the Central Square fountain in its current location while incorporating historic design elements and reusing its existing granite. The committee also opted for deployable bollards rather than permanent fixtures to enhance security during community events. Additionally, a wood-frame pavilion with brick columns was selected as a design preference for Railroad Square, though it remains a bid alternate and is not guaranteed to be included in the final project.

Other downtown improvements discussed included the use of colored and patterned concrete in pedestrian areas, as well as ongoing coordination with property owners regarding infrastructure updates such as fire lines, backflow prevention, and accessibility enhancements.

Route 101 Reconstruction Update

While construction remains a few years away, the committee also heard an update on the long-awaited Route 101 reconstruction project. The project, managed by the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT), focuses on a one-mile stretch from Optical Avenue to just beyond Branch Road.

One of the most significant changes involves the intersection with Swanzey Factory Road, where NHDOT is proposing to relocate the roadway behind the fastener mill and install a roundabout at its connection with Route 101. Additionally, a left-turn lane will be added for eastbound traffic turning onto Branch Road to improve safety and traffic flow.

Testing of the Branch River Bridge revealed severe structural issues—referred to by NHDOT as “concrete cancer”—necessitating a full replacement. Due to right-of-way constraints, the project will not include dedicated bike lanes or sidewalks but will feature 5-foot shoulders to accommodate cyclists and pedestrians.

The $17 million project is 80 percent. federally funded, with construction expected to begin in spring 2027 and last approximately two years. NHDOT plans to hold a public hearing this summer to gather additional community feedback before finalizing the design.