KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A new pedestrian crosswalk equipped with flashing beacons has been installed on West Street near its intersection with Pearl Street, aiming to improve safety for pedestrians navigating the busy roadway.

The project was approved by the City’s Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee in December 2024 following a recommendation from Public Works Director Donald Lussier. The initiative was prompted by an anonymous See-Click-Fix request and a subsequent engineering review that identified the area as a logical pedestrian crossing point between the Pearl Street neighborhood and commercial destinations on the north side of West Street.

West Street sees more than 19,000 vehicles per day during the workweek, and with four travel lanes and no median, crossing can be difficult—particularly for those with limited mobility. Existing crosswalks are located hundreds of feet away, prompting city engineers to conclude that a mid-block crossing with safety enhancements was warranted at this location.

The new flashing beacons are pedestrian-activated and designed to catch the attention of oncoming drivers with bright yellow lights. New signage and pavement markings have also been added to further enhance visibility.

City officials are encouraging pedestrians to press the beacon button and wait for vehicles to stop before crossing. Drivers are urged to reduce their speed and remain alert when approaching the new crosswalk.