About this Location

Facility Overview

The Science Lot is an open-air surface parking facility situated on Blake Street on the Keene State College campus in Keene, New Hampshire. Positioned directly adjacent to the David F. Putnam Science Center, the lot offers an efficient, single-level parking layout with clearly marked bays and two-way driving aisles. Because it is an open-air lot with no overhead barriers or height restrictions, the facility accommodates standard passenger vehicles, minivans, SUVs, and full-size pickup trucks with ease. High-roof utility vans and vehicles carrying rooftop racks or bicycles can comfortably navigate the lot, provided they fit within standard bay dimensions.

Prime Location & Nearby Attractions

Serving as a vital campus parking hub, the Science Lot offers unbeatable convenience for college academics, athletics, and cultural events, as well as easy access to downtown Keene:

David F. Putnam Science Center: Located directly adjacent to the lot, providing immediate access to science lecture halls, research laboratories, and faculty offices.
Redfern Arts Center: Located approximately a 4-minute walk away (0.2 miles), home to theatrical performances, dance recitals, and music concerts.
Spaulding Gymnasium & Recreation Center: Just a 5-minute walk (0.25 miles), hosting Keene State Owls collegiate basketball, volleyball games, and campus athletic events.
Mason Library & Student Center: Located within a 4-to-6-minute walk, featuring campus dining options, student lounges, and research facilities.
Downtown Keene & Central Square: A scenic 10-to-12-minute walk (0.6 miles) north along Main Street, connecting visitors to local boutiques, cafes, independent bookstores, and historic dining spots.

Access, Navigation & Transit Connectivity

Ingress and egress to the Science Lot are handled directly via Blake Street, which links directly to Winchester Street (Route 10 / Route 9) and Main Street (Route 12). Its strategic campus positioning allows motorists to bypass congested downtown intersections when entering or leaving town. Regional drivers benefit from quick connections to NH-101 and NH-9, leading to nearby towns across the Monadnock Region. For local transit, Keene City Express bus stops are situated along Winchester and Main Streets, providing connections throughout the city of Keene.

Facility Amenities & Key Features

Open-Air Surface Parking: Generous vertical clearance with no overhead height obstructions, ideal for taller passenger vehicles and light trucks.
ADA Accessible Spaces: Dedicated accessible parking stalls located close to campus pedestrian walkways and Putnam Science Center entry points.
Pedestrian Connectivity: Well-paved, lighted walkways linking directly to the Keene State academic quad and surrounding campus facilities.
Safety & Visibility: Monitored periodically by Keene State College Campus Safety, equipped with exterior area lighting for nighttime safety.
Permit & Visitor System: Campus-regulated parking managed through Keene State College Parking Services, utilizing permit display or visitor registration passes.

Ideal For

Keene State Faculty, Staff & Students: Daily commuters with assigned academic permits attending classes or working in campus laboratories.
Campus Eventgoers & Arts Patrons: Visitors attending lectures, presentations, and arts performances at the Putnam Science Center or Redfern Arts Center.
Visiting Families & Prospective Students: Families taking official campus tours or visiting resident students during weekend visits.
Athletic Supporters: Fans heading to athletic matches and campus tournaments at nearby Owl sports facilities.

Visitor & Driver Tips

Check Campus Permit Regulations: Parking enforcement is strictly maintained during typical academic weekday hours (Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Ensure you have an authorized staff, student, or visitor permit displayed properly.
Visitor Passes: Unregistered guests should obtain a temporary guest permit from Keene State College Campus Safety (located nearby on Wyman Way) or use designated public/visitor stalls.
Winter Weather Awareness: Keep an eye out for posted snow emergency and plowing restrictions during winter months, as overnight parking rules change during snow clearance operations.
GPS Navigation: Set your navigation system directly to Blake Street, Keene, NH, and watch for official Keene State College parking signage at the lot entrance.