Plans for a new public restroom in downtown Keene are under consideration as part of the city’s Capital Improvement Program. The City Council’s Finance, Organization, and Personnel Committee recently examined this initiative, which could see a free public facility available for residents and visitors in the near future. The proposed restroom is estimated to cost approximately $440,000.

Previously, Keene maintained a public restroom downtown, but it was closed due to ongoing vandalism issues. According to City Manager Elizabeth Ferland, the city has contemplated various solutions over the years, including a flush-toilet kiosk and reopening facilities at the Gilbo Avenue transportation center, which had served the public until its closure in 2011.

During a recent committee meeting, support emerged from Michele Chalice, a city councilor, who emphasized the restroom’s importance for individuals experiencing homelessness and expressed that it would also serve the general public during community events. Chalice acknowledged the challenge of funding such a project but stressed the need for a compassionate community that accommodates everyone’s needs.

The proposed design of the restroom involves a single-occupancy structure to be located on Gilbo Avenue, nestled between the bike path and a soon-to-be-constructed pavilion. Public Works Director Don Lussier provided details on the structure’s innovative features, including a self-cleaning mechanism that triggers a deep clean every tenth use. This system is designed to maintain hygiene and discourage misuse, with the restroom locking temporarily after each cleaning cycle.

Ferland mentioned that the public works team is exploring various protective measures that would contribute to the project’s overall cost. Lussier indicated that the restroom would be built from durable materials, including concrete and tamper-proof stainless steel, with safety measures like a 20-minute occupancy sensor.

While some city officials voiced support for the restroom initiative, others, like Ward 1 councilor Jacob Favolise, raised concerns about prioritizing road repairs over the restroom. He pointed out that the funds allocated for the project could rehabilitate and pave approximately two miles of roads, which are also in need of attention.

The restroom project is currently slated for fiscal consideration in 2028, implying it will not appear in the upcoming budget. Ferland confirmed that the city intends to revisit this proposal in the next budget planning cycle, allowing for potential inclusion in the subsequent fiscal year if it gains approval.