Buechel Bypass Bridge Closure Set for This Weekend in Jefferson County

Closure necessary as contractor advances on repairs to bridge

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Jan. 26, 2023) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) advises motorists of the weekend closure of the bridge carrying Buechel Bypass (U.S. 31E/U.S. 150) over a set of railroad tracks in Jefferson County.

The bridge will be closed from 7 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, to 7 a.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, from mile point 10.4 to mile point 10.5. That’s between the cross streets of Plaza Avenue and Hikes Lane. During the bridge closure, signs in the area will direct drivers to utilize Hikes Lane, Shepherdsville Road, Buechel Bank Road and Progress Boulevard as the posted detour.

When the Buechel Bypass bridge reopens, the closure of a southbound lane, northbound lane and the northbound off-ramp to Progress Way will be reinstituted. One lane of traffic on the bridge will remain open in both directions.

The various closures were instituted after a February 2021 inspection found deterioration on one of the bridge’s pier caps. The repairs were initially delayed as KYTC and the contractor sought approval from the Norfolk Southern Railroad to work on the bridge section over the tracks. Last year, crews began working under the bridge, in an area not visible to motorists crossing the span. Those repairs have now advanced to a point where the weekend closure of the entire bridge is necessary. The repairs are expected to be completed in spring 2023.

The date and duration of this work may be adjusted if inclement weather or other unforeseen delays occur. Visit goky.ky.gov for the latest in traffic and travel information in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. You can also get traffic information for the District 5 counties at facebook.com/KYTCDistrict5 and twitter.com/KYTCDistrict5.

2022 Pop-Up Drop-Off Report

Pop-Up Drop-Offs are free recycling and large item disposal events for residents of Jefferson County. The Solid Waste Management team hosted nine Pop-Up Drop-Off events throughout the county in 2022. Data was collected from each participant including their zip code and material categories they brought. The zip code map below gives a visual overview of participation. Residents mostly dropped off electronics, bulky waste, and documents to be shredded. The top material categories varied slightly depending on the location. The graph below shows the number of vehicles that brought each material type. Material weights were measured or estimated, and the overall landfill diversion rate was 47%, an increase from last year! The chart below shows the weights of the material categories at each event.

Special thanks to the Metro Council, Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, and the Waste Management District for their partnership to make these events successful! We are currently planning the 2023 Pop-Up Drop-Off schedule. Check for updates at Louisvilleky.gov/PopUps. 

Miracle League at Fern Creek Park Spring Registration

Miracle League Family-

Happy New Year! 

2022 is ending, which means the 2023 registration is opening! The 2023 Spring Season registration will OPEN on January 3rd and it will CLOSE on March 3rd. Registration will be open for players AND volunteers/Buddy’s.

• Players, please note when you register, take time to review and update any address/contact information in your EZReg account so information will be up to date.
• Volunteers, please register each season through the ML website. We do not have your accounts stored on our database. Volunteer information is updated each season.

Click here to register!

**Get excited for the 2023 baseball season! It will begin on April 15th and run through June 17th with no games on May 6th or May 27th**

Mayor Greenberg, community partners announce free tax preparation services for eligible Louisville residents

Mayor Craig Greenberg today joined community partners in announcing the start of free federal and state income tax preparation assistance for eligible residents.  The Louisville Asset Building Coalition’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, or VITA, provides trained, IRS-certified volunteers who offer free tax services at 11 sites across the city. VITA is available to individuals and families who earned less than $66,000 in 2022.

VITA volunteers will also help determine if residents are eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable federal tax credit for low- and middle-income working individuals and families. Eligibility for the EITC is based on income, the number of family members and other criteria, such as the age of household members. Working families who earn up to $57,400 may be eligible, and the average credit last year was $2,800.

For many working families, free help with taxes and guidance in qualifying for the EITC can be a game-changer,” the Mayor said. "That’s money that could be used to start a savings account, buy a car, get braces for a child, pay books and college tuition, or start a college fund for their children."

  Since launching in 2001, VITA services have helped more than 135,500 Louisville tax filers. Last year, VITA processed more than 7,300 returns, adding more than $12 million to the local economy, including nearly $2 million in EITC to residents.

Mayor Greenberg thanked the many partner organizations that work together on the mission of helping hardworking families file their tax returns properly and capitalize on the credits, including Louisville Metro’s Office for Resilience and Community Services (RCS).  RCS helps to connect tax filers to an array of financial empowerment services including the newly opened Financial Empowerment Center which provides free financial counseling, and the Tax Time Connect initiative.

Tax Time Connect encourages “unbanked” tax filers to get banked with Bank On Louisville certified accounts, and to choose direct deposit for their tax refund. Bank On certified accounts are low-cost, safe and fully functional. 

Learn more about the Tax Time Connect, financial counseling and other resources at https://louisvilleky.gov/government/resilience-and-community-services/office-financial-empowerment.

Tax filing season is now officially underway and the deadline to file this year is April 18. VITA sites will prepare in-person free tax filing, by appointment only, at several sites. Most of the sites will provide free tax filing through drop-off services.

The VITA free tax preparation sites are located at:

• Americana Community Center, 4801 Southside Drive
• Edison Center, 701 W Ormsby Ave., Ste 201
• Goodwill Resource Center, 909 E. Broadway
• Louisville Urban League, 1535 W. Broadway
• Oldham County LaGrange Library, 308 Yager, LaGrange
• Portland Promise Center, 1831 Baird St.
• NABA/Shively City Hall, 3920 Dixie Highway
• Vincent de Paul Family Success Center, 1029 S Preston Hwy.
• Sun Valley Community Center, 6505 Bethany Lane
• United Crescent Hill Ministries, 150 State St.
• Wesley House Community Services, 5114 Preston Hwy.

To schedule an appointment for in-person tax assistance, call 502-305-0005 or visit https://louisvillekyvita.cascheduler.com.  For more details, including days and hours of drop off services, visit https://labcservices.org/. 

Also find information on the website about the annual “Taxathon” event, a two-day, 24-hour tax push to file taxes at St. Vincent de Paul, Jan. 27 and 28, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. Also, online is access to MyFreeTaxes.com, a free self-file program offered in partnership by United Way Worldwide and TaxSlayer. LABC is proud to be a member of the Tax Time Allies and has received funding from the Intuit Freedom Foundation to increase access to VITA and free software programs.

AARP Tax-Aide also provides free tax prep services with a mission to serve any person who comes through the door, with special attention to those 60 and older. The AARP team helped to file more than 2,400 returns in 2022 leading to over $2.8 million in federal and state refunds.

AARP Tax-Aid sites will begin operating at eight sites in early February. For more information, visit http://www.aarp-tax-aide-lou.org.

To help preparers accurately determine prepare returns EITC eligibility at VITA and AARP Tax Aide sites, individuals should bring:

• Picture ID and Social Security cards for everyone listed on the return
• Copy of 2021 tax return with all attachments and schedules
• W-2s and 1099s from your employers
• Other 1099s for interest, dividends, state tax refund or other income
• Form 1099-G for any unemployment compensation received during the year
• 1095-A for health insurance
• 1098 for education credit, plus a detailed financial statement from the school
• Bank account number and routing number for direct deposit as well as savings account number (if applicable)
• If you do not have a bank account, we can help you open a Bank On certified account.
• Childcare information, including Provider ID and actual amounts paid
• Summarized list of other income/expenses for those who itemize or are self-employed
• Additional tax information that may be required
• Masks are required at all VITA sites

The work of the Louisville Asset Building Coalition and the AARP Tax Assistance Program is made possible by Metro United Way, Louisville Metro Government, the IRS, the AARP Tax-Aide Foundation and dozens of other partners, and hundreds of volunteers.

LMG is Hiring!

Serve the Louisville community! Find your career in Metro Government!

¡Sirve a la comunidad de Louisville! ¡Encuentra tu carrera en el Gobierno Metropolitano!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisvilleky

Wild Lights: Around the World Tickets on Sale February 1

Featuring New Lanterns Inspired by Unique Global Sites

The Louisville Zoo is excited to announce the return of one of the largest lantern festivals in the nation, Wild Lights: Around the World, March 10 through May 21, 2023. Tickets will be on sale at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, February 1 at louisvillezoo.org/wildlights.

With an almost entirely new lineup of lanterns, guests will be able to see sights from around the world on their 1.4-mile excursion through the Zoo. Famous landmarks, flora and fauna from North and South America, Africa, Europe, Australia and Asia will be highlighted in six different zones. As families venture through the Zoo’s pathways each evening, they will experience hand-crafted, illuminated art displays comprised of silk-covered, metal frames and LED lightbulbs. The event will feature over 50,000 LED lightbulbs, 18 interactive displays, 8 animated lanterns and 10 light changing pieces that together present a spectacular feast for the eyes. A few lantern highlights include a walk-through cobra corridor, giant blue morpho butterfly, and a 9-foot, shark-themed photo opportunity. Other lanterns to look forward to include the Statue of Liberty, Sydney Opera House, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Hall of Supreme Harmony and so much more!

This 46-night immersive experience features live cultural performances including Chinese folk dances, acrobatics and more. There will also be unique handcrafted goods available for purchase along with snacks and cocktails by Service Systems Associates (SSA) – the Zoo’s food and amenity vendor.

Wild Lights is in partnership with Stewart Promotions and Tianyu Arts & Culture Inc., an international event design company.

The event is wheelchair and stroller-friendly on a paved path. The festival is a rain or shine event and will be held 6:30 – 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday nights from March 10 – May 21, 2023 and nightly from March 30 – April 9, 2023. 

PRICING

Early Bird pricing available March 10 – 31, 2023. General admission is $20, Louisville Zoo members receive $17 discounted admission. Children 2 and under are free and do not require a ticket. Family Four Pack tickets are available for $65; Zoo members may purchase the Family Four Pack at a discounted rate of $55. Family Four Pack ticket holders must enter the event together. Tickets are available for purchase in advance online only.

From April 1 – May 21, 2023, General admission is $22, Louisville Zoo members receive $19 discounted admission. Children 2 and under are free and do not require a ticket. Family Four Pack tickets are available for $75; Zoo members may purchase the Family Four Pack at a discounted rate of $65. Family Four Pack ticket holders must enter the event together. Tickets available for purchase in advance online only.

Regular daytime Zoo admission tickets and Wild Lights tickets must be purchased separately. Parking for this event is $7 and can be purchased in advance online during your purchase or at the Zoo admission windows. For more information, visit louisvillezoo.org.

Wild Lights: Around the World is sponsored by Bob Ray Company, LG&E and KU Foundation, Norton Children’s and Neil and Jane MacDonald Family.

***

The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The Wildest Jobs in Town: Zoo Hosts Job Fair

The Louisville Zoo will host a job fair on January 28 in the Islands Pavilion Gheens Room from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Zoo is seeking outgoing, highly motivated individuals who enjoy working with the public to fill seasonal positions in various departments. Positions are available in Admissions, Education, Guest Services, Membership, Front Desk, Horticulture and Rides & Attractions. Candidates will receive training in their area. 

The compensation for seasonal positions ranges from $15.15 to $17.15 per hour. All applicants must be at least 16 years of age and able to work a variable schedule that includes nights and weekends from March through October. Some positions require applicants to be 18 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license.

For those seeking a seasonal position in the Zoo’s animal departments, requirements include one year of college with a declared major in biology or a closely related field, as well as one year of working with animals in an institutional setting.

To apply for seasonal positions in the education department, candidates must have completed one year of college seeking a degree in elementary or secondary education, have one year of experience working with children in a formal or informal teaching setting (school, day camp, zoo or other cultural attraction), and have background knowledge of biology, ecology or related fields.

In addition to working in a unique environment, seasonal Zoo employees receive free Zoo admission and parking for the duration of their employment term as well as discounts in Zoo gift shops and food concession locations with Zoo ID.

All other full-time and part-time vacant positions will be posted weekly on the Louisville Government website at "www.louisvilleky.gov" 

BBB's January 2023 Hot Topics

1.    A consumer reported that while trying to sell an item, they were contacted by a potential “buyer” who offered to pay for the item by Zelle, but first the consumer would be required to set up a Zelle business account. This is a common scam on Facebook Marketplace. Zelle and other payment apps do not require you to set up a business account to complete a transaction.

1.    A consumer reported an employment scam to BBB. The consumer applied for a transcriptionist position, and after a quick interview process was informed she would be sent a check to purchase supplies. She contacted her bank, who verified the check was fraudulent. Beware of any “job opportunities” where the interview process seems almost too easy and the employer sends you a check to purchase supplies. You can also look up reviews on a company at bbb.org before applying or interviewing.

1.     Consumers continue to report scam callers claiming to represent LG&E. The callers state that the consumer’s service will be shut off unless a past due invoice is paid. As a reminder, LG&E will never call you and demand payment over the phone. When in doubt, contact LG&E directly to check the status of your account.    

1.   Consumers continue to report scam Amazon phone calls to BBB. As a reminder, Amazon will not call to alert you of a large pending charge on your account. When in doubt, log in and check your Amazon and bank or credit card accounts. Do not give anyone access to your account information over the phone!  
2.   A consumer reported receiving a scam phone call claiming to be from PNC Bank. If you receive an unsolicited phone call from someone claiming to represent your bank, hang up and contact your bank directly. Do not give out any financial information over the phone!  

1.     A consumer reported to BBB that they received a voicemail alerting them that legal action was being taken against them. This is a common scam that tries to scare victims into thinking they will face legal consequences if they do not pay large fines. Don’t fall for it!  

1.     A consumer attempting to sell an item on Facebook marketplace was contacted by a scammer who wanted the consumer’s phone number. BBB warns consumers not to fall for this scam. Once the scammer has your phone number, they can set up a Google Voice number linked to your phone number, allowing them to conceal their identity for future scams and/or set up new accounts in your name.

1.       A consumer reported to BBB that they were almost the victim of a medical billing scam after receiving fake invoices. If you receive an unexpected invoice, contact your insurance company and medical provider directly to verify its authenticity.

1.       A consumer reported an online shopping scam to BBB after attempting to purchase a rare NBA jersey, which they never received. BBB reminds consumers to check bbb.org for reviews and reports on companies before making online purchases, use a secure method of payment, and don’t fall for “deals” that are too good to be true.  

1.   A consumer reported a delivery scam to BBB. They received a message that a package could not be delivered until they paid a re-delivery fee. They later noticed their credit card was used for unauthorized charges. BBB warns consumers not to respond to suspicious messages like this.

ROADSHOW for The Week of Jan. 22, 2023

New items or changes in project status are shown in bold

Inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances may occur, so the information below is strictly of an advisory nature and is subject to change with no notice.

JEFFERSON COUNTY

• I-Move Kentucky (I-64 / I-71 / I-265): Find the latest project updates here: https://i-moveky.com/.
• Sherman Minton Bridge (I-64 & US 150 over the Ohio River between Louisville, KY, and New Albany, IN): Find the latest project updates here: https://shermanmintonrenewal.com/.
• U.S. 31E (Bardstown Road/Baxter Avenue): Lane closures and delays are possible from Bonnycastle Avenue to Broadway for asphalt resurfacing and related work. Drivers will be directed through these work zones via flagging operations. Motorists take note: On-street parking will be restricted. This is part of an overall Highway Safety Improvement Program within the Bardstown Road corridor.
• U.S. 31E (Bardstown Road): Lane shifts and delays are possible at Southpointe Boulevard for intersection improvements. The intersection is being reconstructed to include dual turn lanes. The work is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2023.
• U.S. 31E (Buechel Bypass): Motorists should expect a southbound lane closure and delays at a bridge over the Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks at mile point 10.4. This is in addition to the northbound lane closure that has been in place since 2021. One lane of traffic will remain open in both directions. The additional lane closure is necessary as contractors advance on repairs to the bridge. Crews had previously worked under the bridge in an area not visible to motorists crossing the span. The repair was delayed as KYTC, and the contractor sought approval from the railroad to work on the bridge section over the tracks. The repair is expected to be completed no later than spring 2023.
• U.S. 42: Daily lane closures are possible from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the set of I-71 overpass bridges (mile point 7). That’s between Seminary Drive and Mt. Rainier Drive. The contractor will first complete the work requiring a westbound lane closure before switching to the eastbound lane. The bearing pads are being replaced on the south side of both bridges. Electronic message boards will direct motorists through the work zone. The project is expected to be completed in spring 2023.
• KY 1450 (Blue Lick Road): Weekday lane closures are possible on Blue Lick Road between Gene Snyder and Preston Highway for road widening work. The project is expected to be completed in summer 2023.
• South Pope Lick Road: Road closed to thru traffic between KY 155 (Taylorsville Road) and Rehl Road. Local access only. Motorists should follow posted detours. The closure to thru traffic is for the reconstruction of the KY 155 and South Pope Lick Road intersection and bridge over Pope Lick Creek. The project is expected to be completed in fall 2023.