KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene City Councilor Michele Chalice outlined the city’s ongoing review of its Capital Improvement Plan and a debated proposal for a downtown public restroom during an appearance earlier this week on Good Morning with Dan Mitchell on WKBK Radio.

Chalice said the proposed restroom project — estimated at about $442,000 — is part of the city’s broader Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which guides major infrastructure and facility investments from fiscal years 2027 through 2033. The plan recently advanced following a public hearing at Thursday’s Keene City Council meeting.

Much of the public feedback at that hearing focused on the proposed downtown restroom, which is slated for fiscal year 2028. Chalice acknowledged the issue has drawn both support and concern from residents.

During the radio interview, Chalice emphasized the lack of publicly accessible restrooms in downtown Keene, particularly during evenings, weekends, and large community events. She said the need extends beyond visitors to include elderly residents, families with young children, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

“There hasn’t really been a public option since 2013,” Chalice said, noting that the absence of facilities can create health and safety challenges.

Radio host Dan Mitchell raised concerns shared by some residents, including the potential for misuse of the facility, such as drug activity or vandalism. Chalice responded by pointing to a proposed design that would include a self-cleaning system and be built to function year-round, including during winter conditions.

She also said adding a dedicated public restroom could reduce strain on local businesses that often serve as de facto public facilities.

The conversation also touched on the possibility of pairing the restroom project with other improvements, such as a nearby solar array or electric vehicle charging stations, though Chalice noted those ideas are still in early stages. Mitchell also suggested exploring a welcome center concept using city-owned property, which Chalice said could warrant further discussion but may present logistical challenges.

The CIP, including the restroom proposal, will now return to the city’s Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee for further review. A final vote by the full council is scheduled for April 2.

Chalice said she plans to continue updating the public as the proposal moves forward.