Downtown Infrastructure Project Information
Current Phase: Preliminary Design
In July of 2023, the City Council adopted the "Multilane Hybrid" conceptual design for the Downtown Infrastructure Improvement Project. The current Preliminary Design Phase will use the Multilane Hybrid concept to develop the detailed plans and specifications required for construction. This will include multiple opportunities for community involvement.
Detailed information from the completed conceptual design phase 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
June 26th MSFI Committee Meeting, 6:00 PM, City Hall - The draft preliminary design plans have been referred to MSFI for a final review. The City Council will then vote on the project design at its July 18th meeting.
Downtown Project Impacts Public Meetings
June 25, 2024 at the Keene Public Library: 10:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. (All three sessions will cover the same content - people can attend the session that best fits their own schedule.)
We look forward to working closely with downtown businesses and residents to minimize impacts and maintain open communications during the Downtown Infrastructure Project. Everyone’s input is invaluable in helping us achieve this goal.
MSFI Meetings
The City Council Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure (MSFI) Committee held three special meetings to review specific focus areas. A follow-up to the discussion occurred on May 22nd. The committee will review the proposed design at its 6/26 meeting for a recommendation to the City Council.
These meetings are open to the public and take place in Keene City Hall. The meetings are also live-streamed (on the City website and the City's YouTube channel.)
| 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 26, 2024, 6:00 PM Keene City Hall, Council Chambers (2nd floor) |
A Council Workshop took place June 11th. The full 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. Although no formal council action regarding the design occurred at this workshop, Councilors reviewed the complete project scope and provided input to the design team.
Presentation Slides
Public Workshops - Complete (March, April, and May, 2024)