Keene State move-in, local school openings to affect Monadnock Region traffic this week

Local schools begin Wednesday and Thursday, with Keene State first year students arriving Thursday as well.

The start of the 2026-27 school year is arriving across the Monadnock Region, and Keene State College’s annual move-in is expected to add congestion around the city at the same time.

Keene State will begin welcoming first-year students on Thursday, Aug. 27, with new arrivals scheduled to check into residence halls from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. College officials say the volume of cars and families should slow traffic in the area around campus.

Drivers may see delays on Winchester Street, stretching from the roundabout at Main, Marlboro and Winchester streets west to Winchester Court. Travel could also be affected on Main Street between Route 101 and Wyman Way. Campus Safety is advising people who do not need to be in the area to find another route during the move-in window.

Returning students will be able to get into the residence halls and apartments on Sunday, Aug. 30. Classes at Keene State start the next day, Monday, Aug. 31. River Valley Community College is also set to open its fall semester on Monday, Aug. 31.

Public schools throughout the Monadnock Region are also resuming instruction this week. Most districts will welcome students back on Wednesday, Aug. 26, while others begin Thursday, Aug. 27.

Districts starting Wednesday include Chesterfield, Fall Mountain, Harrisville, Keene, Marlborough, Marlow, Monadnock Regional, Stoddard, Surry and Westmoreland. ConVal, Hinsdale, Jaffrey-Rindge and Winchester are scheduled to start Thursday.

Families with questions about Keene State move-in may contact Campus Safety at 603-358-2228.