KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A stretch of Maple Avenue is now closed as crews begin work to remove red pine trees infested with red pine scale in Dinsmoor Woods, kicking off a weeklong forestry project that will impact traffic in the area.

Starting Monday, Maple Avenue is shut down between Court Street and Pako Avenue from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with traffic detoured along Old Walpole Road, Sesame Street, Melody Lane and Dale Drive before reconnecting at Pako Avenue.

From Tuesday through Friday, the closure will shift slightly, with Maple Avenue closed between Court Street and Melody Lane and a shorter detour route in place.

City officials say the work involves harvesting most of the affected trees to manage the infestation and protect surrounding forest health. Once completed, the area will be left to naturally regenerate before any replanting efforts are considered.

Drivers and pedestrians are urged to plan ahead, expect delays and follow all posted signage as increased truck traffic moves through the area during work hours.

Officials noted the timing of the project coincides with school vacation week, meaning no school bus routes are impacted. Additionally, Cheshire Medical Center said access to and from its West Campus on Maple Avenue will remain unaffected.

The project is expected to continue through Friday.