KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council’s Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure Committee received an update Wednesday on the Downtown infrastructure project, which is currently out to bid with proposals due April 16.

Public Works Director Don Lussier told the committee that once bids are submitted, they will be reviewed before a selected contractor is brought back for approval and contract execution.

Parking management remained a central topic, with the committee addressing concerns on Marlboro Street. Officials also reviewed enforcement strategies, including the use of a mobile payment system, ParkMobile, along with a 30-minute parking limit in some areas. The committee put the matter on more time to allow for enhanced enforcement in the area. Lussier noted that the area is also going to undergo reconstruction soon.

The committee also supported moving ahead with a temporary public art installation, authorizing negotiations for a one-year renewable lease of a large sculpture on city-owned property. Pat Russell Park emerged as the preferred location due to lower costs and improved pedestrian access compared to busier traffic areas.

In another update, the fire department presented a three- to five-year strategic plan focused on workforce development, operational readiness, and community needs. The city plans to make the full plan and supporting materials available online to improve transparency.

The committee also reviewed plans for Dinsmoor Woods on Maple Avenue, where city officials are preparing to remove red pine trees impacted by an invasive insect known as red pine scale. The project is being prioritized due to the area’s higher risk of infestation and coordination with state and urban forestry experts.

Work is expected to take place during the April school vacation period to reduce public disruption. The plan calls for full removal of affected trees to prevent further spread, followed by monitoring for natural regrowth and potential future planting. Officials acknowledged the ecological impact, including the loss of some young native trees, but emphasized the long-term goal of restoring forest health.

The committee also reviewed infrastructure needs at the city’s transfer station, identifying aging electrical systems and fire protection gaps that will require upgrades in the coming years, and discussed expanding electronic payment options and connectivity to support future city operations.