Downtown Infrastructure Project Information
Current Phase: Final Design
In July of 2023, the City Council adopted the "Multilane Hybrid" conceptual design for the Downtown Infrastructure Improvement Project. The Preliminary Design (see presentation slides) was then created (and approved by the City Council in July 2024) using the Multilane Hybrid concept to develop the detailed plans and specifications required for construction. The approved preliminary design is now being used to conduct a thorough infrastructure technical analysis that will inform the final design which will be presented to the City Council's MSFI committee in December 2024.
Detailed background information is posted online on the consultant's website, including utility infrastructure analysis, design concepts, full presentations, traffic and pedestrian analyses, tree study findings, and more.
The Keene Downtown area is the economic engine for the community and represents the spirit and place of Keene. It is critically important to continue investment in the Downtown to support local businesses and the broader community and keep the area relevant and vibrant. Much of Keene's downtown underground infrastructure has aged beyond its useful life including water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, electrical, telecommunication and gas - some of which date back to over 120 years. The last major downtown revitalization occurred in 1988. The need for utility improvements is critical and is now a top priority. (View the 1884 survey of the Central Square water system.)
Please check back for updates as the Preliminary Design Phase continues.
Contact:
Keene Public Works, (603) 352-6550
Contact Us
Meetings and Updates
Next Steps
Final Design Recommendation
In December 2024, City staff will recommend the final project design at the City Council's MSFI Committee meeting. The final design is the product of a thorough infrastructure technical analysis that commenced upon City Council's approval of the preliminary design. Following approval of the final design, construction for phase one (Central Square) is scheduled to begin in May 2025.
MSFI Meetings
| March 13, 2024, 5:30 PM, Focus Area: Main Street Streetscape Presentation Slides |
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| April 24, 2024, 5:30 PM, Focus Area: Gilbo Avenue/Railroad Square Presentation Slides |
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| May 8, 2024, 5:30 PM, Focus Area: Central Square Presentation Slides |
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| May 22, 2024, 6:00 PM Presentation Slides |
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| June 11, 2024, 7:00 PM Presentation Slides |
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| June 26, 2024, 6:00 PM Presentation Slides |
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| December, 2024 - date to be determined Final Design Recommendation (this is in process and will be posted here soon) |
A Council Workshop took place June 11th, 2024. The City Council reviewed the draft preliminary design plan, as it has been developed and refined through a series of public workshops and MSFI project update meetings. Councilors reviewed the complete project scope and provided input to the design team.
Presentation Slides
Public Workshops - Complete (March, April, and May, 2024)