KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Motorists traveling through Keene next week may encounter detours, lane shifts and temporary traffic controls as several infrastructure and maintenance projects move forward across the city.
One of the most significant impacts will begin Monday when the George Street Bridge closes for a replacement project expected to last approximately four months. Traffic will be detoured around the work zone while crews remove the existing structure and construct a new bridge.
Road reconstruction efforts will also continue on Marlboro Street, where crews from Bazin Brothers are scheduled to remove pavement, install gravel and complete granite curb work between Main Street and Eastern Avenue. Drivers should be prepared for alternating traffic patterns and lane shifts while construction is underway.
On Key Road, utility work is slated to begin Thursday evening near 63 Key Road. Contractors will relocate a water main, requiring alternating one-way traffic during overnight work periods. The project is expected to continue into the following week, when crews will begin installing a box culvert as part of ongoing drainage improvements.
Construction associated with the Transportation Heritage Trail will remain active near the Eastern Avenue trailhead parking area. Periodic one-way traffic controls may be necessary as work continues over the next two weeks, weather permitting.
Additional traffic impacts are expected Wednesday on Island Street as contractors install pavement markings. Temporary alternating traffic will be used while crews complete the work.
At the City Hall Parking Garage, repair work continues as contractors perform concrete restoration and selective demolition. The project is expected to wrap up during the first week of July.
Sidewalk and roadway improvements are also progressing in several neighborhoods. On Willow Street, crews will complete cleanup work related to a recently installed sidewalk. Short-term road closures and alternating traffic may be necessary during construction activities.
Meanwhile, excavation for new curbing and sidewalks is scheduled to begin Monday on Gardner Street. The project is expected to continue through July 1, with traffic reduced to alternating one-way flow in active work areas.
Tree removal projects will create additional traffic impacts Tuesday. A tree near 89 South Lincoln Street will require temporary sidewalk closures and alternating one-way traffic, while another removal near 60 Summer St. will result in shifted two-way traffic patterns for much of the day.
City officials are urging drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to use caution around work zones, follow posted signs and allow extra travel time when passing through construction areas.
