Keene’s planning board recently gave the green light for a new housing project on Elm Street, consisting of 18 single-family residences. This initiative, led by property owner Paul Dubriske, aims to transform the site at 454 Elm St., located near Route 9 and Fuller Elementary School, into a cottage court development. The planned homes are expected to be priced between $375,000 and $425,000.

The concept of a cottage court involves constructing several smaller homes grouped around a shared open space, a housing strategy that has been embraced by the city since May 2024 as a way to combat housing shortages. Dubriske indicated that the cottage court overlay was crucial for making this project feasible in Keene.

Currently, the 2.3-acre site is home to a house, along with areas of forest, wetlands, and stone walls, as noted in the developer’s submission to the city. The proposed residences will feature two or three bedrooms, with sizes ranging from 895 to 1,365 square feet, each designed with its own driveway and garage.

In order to advance the development, Dubriske intends to demolish the existing house and requested permission from the planning board to clear some vegetation and conduct grading within 30 feet of the wetland area. After deliberation, the board cast a 6-1 vote in favor of the project on December 22, with the stipulation of ongoing oversight by the city’s Community Development staff.