KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council’s Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure Committee met Wednesday night, tackling a wide range of topics including downtown construction impacts, ongoing safety concerns on Court Street, and a proposed new system for hanging event banners across Main Street.

A proposal to install infrastructure for hanging banners downtown generated both interest and hesitation among committee members. The concept, whether by installng poles or attaching cables and attaching them between buildings, carries a price tag of up to $75,000 for equipment and installation. Public Works Director Don Lussier outlined four possible designs, noting the most viable might be a building-to-building setup on West Street due to the shorter span and reduced sag. whether by installing poles or attaching cables between buildings

However, concerns were raised about building stability, installation logistics, and whether there’s enough enthusiasm from the community to justify the investment. Councilor Randy Filiault expressed he thought the Council needed to hear more about the project from event organizers and the business community, suggesting fundraising might be a way forward. With questions still lingering, the committee placed the matter on more time to allow staff and stakeholders to iron out the details.

The meeting also featured an update on the downtown infrastructure project. Lussier reported that the city is close to hiring a project ombudsman to act as a liaison between local businesses, residents, and city staff during construction. Several business owners voiced concern over potential disruptions to sidewalk cafes, particularly how much seating space they might lose.

Licenses for outdoor seating will include extra restrictions to account for construction zones, but most establishments should be able to keep comparable capacity.

Meanwhile, the committee continued to wrestle with traffic and pedestrian safety issues on Court Street, especially around a driveway at 82 Court St. where poor visibility has led to several accidents. Residents and business owners from both sides of the street spoke about the risks, with proposals ranging from no-parking zones to changes in driveway design. The issue, along with a separate pedestrian safety petition, was placed on more time, pending additional data and public input.

Finally, the committee unanimously recommended approval of several ordinances related to updated traffic controls, including new stop and yield sign placements and turning restrictions aimed at aligning city code with recent infrastructure changes.