The following is a short survey we are asking you to take part in. Some five years ago a proposed Pedestrian Bridge (over route 9/10/12) that would link the Downtown Cheshire Branch bicycle/pedestrian trail (built along the old historic railroad corridor) with the West Keene corridor became part of the City of Keene’s Bicycle/Pedestrians Path Master Plan.

Since the completion of the downtown section and the Keene Industrial Heritage Trail section, there has been a healthy increase in the use of the trails. It has been noted that the increase in use, both bicycle and pedestrian, has also affected use of the unimproved West Keene rail bed corridor by cutting across the route 9/10/12 highway.

Not only are many West Keene residents using the paths coming into Keene, but also students coming from the downtown area are accessing the schools in this same manner using the trails.

Although there is at present a proposal for a combination trail and sidewalk system, that would be implemented as part of the Keene-Swanzey Bypass Project, it would still require the crossing of the two on/off ramps to the highway at two traffic signals. We believe that the bridge makes the most sense, is the most practical, and provides both the best safety and quality of life.