Sprinkler Malfunction Disrupts Operations for Downtown Keene Businesses

A sprinkler head malfunctioned in an electrical room, causing water to damage electrical panels crucial to building-wide operations at 82 Main Street.

Several businesses on Main Street in Keene are struggling to resume operations following a sprinkler failure that led to a power shutdown on Tuesday evening. The incident has left establishments at 82 Main Street, including Kilkenny Pub, Local Burger, The Perch, and Madame Sherri's, facing interruptions and inventory loss.

The Keene Fire Department responded to the situation around 5:30 p.m. after a sprinkler head malfunctioned in an electrical room, causing water to damage electrical panels crucial to building-wide operations. The utility company Eversource subsequently cut off power and gas supplies to the location as a precautionary measure while assessing the situation.

According to co-owner of Madame Sherri’s, Patrick Brown, the incident resulted in flooding that affected electrical systems servicing all connected businesses. Staff members managed to safeguard food inventories by relocating items to nearby establishments, including Monadnock Food Co-op and 21 Bar & Grill. Local Burger's team confirmed they successfully transferred their stock as well.

While Madame Sherri's experienced limited flooding, some of their inventory was lost. The Perch's co-owner, Warren Steinberg, expressed concerns regarding uncertainty over the closure duration, noting that this disruption marks the third incident in a month that has forced them to halt business operations.

The implications of this incident extend beyond immediate closures; insurance claims are anticipated as businesses work through recovery and repairs. As restoration efforts progress, businesses are relying on community support to navigate the difficult situation.

Both Madame Sherri's and Kilkenny Pub have indicated that operations will remain halted at least until Thursday while remediation and assessments take place. The community's response has been supportive, aiding affected businesses during this challenging period.