KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow)  – The Keene City Council approved the proposed design for the Keene Downtown Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction project at last night’s meeting.

The vote was 14-1, with Ward 5 Councilor Philip “Phil” Jones casting the sole dissenting vote, citing concerns over the proposed protected bicycle lanes along Main Street and Central Square.

Stantec, the city’s consultant, will now finalize the design, expected to be presented to the council by late winter. The project is slated to go out to bid in the spring. Meanwhile, the city manager’s committee on bike lanes will present their findings to the Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure Committee next week.

The $17.4 million project will replace aging pipes beneath downtown Keene, some of which are over a century old. The approved design will preserve the current traffic pattern around Central Square, with modifications such as widening the space and adding a footpath around its perimeter. Additional downtown changes include flashing crosswalks and a raised crossing table at the Main and Railroad Street intersection.

The project’s primary goal is to replace outdated water, sewer, and stormwater utilities from the late 1800s. While there is consensus on the need for these updates, discussions have focused on potential changes to the city’s layout.

The Downtown Infrastructure Improvement and Reconstruction Project has involved a comprehensive public planning process, engaging residents, property owners, business owners, workers, and visitors. The project team has collaborated with local organizations such as the chamber of commerce, the Keene Downtown Business Association, the Keene Bicycle/Pedestrian/Path Advisory Committee, the Keene Energy and Climate Committee, and the Keene Rotary Club.

Since April 2022, the Mayor’s Ad-Hoc Downtown Infrastructure Project Steering Committee has held several informational meetings and public workshops to discuss project alternatives, estimated costs, and funding sources. The City Council referred the project to the Municipal Services, Facilities, and Infrastructure (MSFI) Committee for review and recommendation.

The construction will occur in three phases, starting with Central Square, moving south to Gilbo Avenue and Railroad Square, and finishing with Main Street between Gilbo Avenue and Water Street. Future phases will address how downtown businesses will operate during construction.