Downtown infrastructure project to commence shortly

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 7:34 PM

The initial phase of Keene's downtown infrastructure overhaul is expected to commence this summer.

The initial phase of the infrastructure overhaul in Keene’s downtown area is expected to commence this summer, according to remarks made by the city's public works director.

This extensive three-year development will kick off in Central Square towards the end of May, focusing on replacing aging piping systems situated below the downtown region. In addition to underground work, there will be enhancements visible at street level, including the introduction of dedicated bike lanes for safety.

Earlier this month, bids for the project were submitted, with contractor proposals set to be reviewed on April 16. This marks the second bidding attempt due to previously received bids in late 2022, which exceeded the city's budget. To address the financial shortfall, the City Council implemented several cost-saving strategies in February and reallocated funds from other initiatives.

Currently, the revised estimate for the project's total cost stands at just under $24 million, an increase from the earlier estimate of $20 million, yet lower than the higher bids of $28 million and $30.8 million received last December.