Thunder Over Louisville Interstate and Street Closures

Clark Memorial Bridge (Second Street Bridge)

• Thursday, April 20, 9:45 a.m. to midnight
• Friday, April 21, all day
• Saturday, April 22, all day
• Sunday, April 23, midnight to 2 p.m.

10:30 a.m., Friday, April 21 to  8 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• West River Road from 2nd Street to 6th Street (local access to Joe’s Crab Shack)
• Witherspoon Street from Preston Street to Brook Street
• East River Road from Preston Street to Witherspoon Street
• Bingham Way from West River Road to Witherspoon Street
• Floyd Street from Witherspoon Street to Washington Street

Midnight, Friday April 21 to 8 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• Ramp from westbound Interstate 64 to Third Street
• Ramp from Second Street to eastbound Interstate 64
• Second Street from Witherspoon Street to West River Road (local access to local garages only)

9 a.m. Saturday, April 22 to 8 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• (Local traffic and pass traffic will be allowed provided there are no pedestrian safety issues.)
• Witherspoon Street from Brook Street to Second Street
• Witherspoon Street from Preston Street to Adams Street
• Washington Street from First Street to Second Street
• Armory Place from Liberty Street to Muhammad Ali Boulevard
• Preston Street from Main Street to Witherspoon Street
• Floyd Street from Main Street to Washington Street
• Brook Street from Main Street to Witherspoon Street
• First Street from Main Street to Witherspoon Street
• Second Street from Main Street to Witherspoon Street
• Third Street from Main Street to River Road (access will be allowed to parking garages)

1 p.m. Saturday, April 22 to 9 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• Washington Street from Preston Street to 1st Street

5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22

• Kennedy Bridge at I-65 North

6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22 to 2 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• 2nd Street from Main Street to Jacob Street
• Muhammad Ali Boulevard from Clay Street to Roy Wilkins Avenue (9th Street)

7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22

• Kennedy Bridge at I-65 South

8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22

• Interstate 65 northbound from Interstate 264 (Watterson Expressway) to Interstate 64
• Interstate 65 southbound from Interstate 265 (Indiana) to Interstate 64
• Interstate 64 westbound from Interstate 264 (Watterson Expressway) to 22nd Street
• Interstate 64 eastbound from Interstate 264 (Shawnee Expressway) to Interstate 65

8:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22 

• Preston Street ramp entrance to I-65 North
• St. Catherine Street ramp entrance to I-65 North
• Muhammad Ali Boulevard ramp entrance to I-65 North
• 9th Street ramp entrance to I-64 East
• 9th Street ramp entrance to I-64 West
• 22nd Street ramp entrance to I 64 East
• Zorn Avenue ramp entrance to I-71 South
• Grinstead Drive ramp entrance to I-64 West
• Cannons Lane ramp entrance to I-64 West

9 p.m. Saturday, April 22 to 1 a.m. Sunday, April 23

• Third Street from Main Street to Broadway will be one way southbound
• Market Street from Sixth Street to 10th Street will be reversed from eastbound traffic to westbound traffic

Emergency Route

Only authorized emergency vehicles can use the following route from 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 22

• Muhammad Ali Boulevard from Roy Wilkins Boulevard to Clay Street
• Second Street from Main Street to Jacob Street
• Northbound Second Street traffic will be diverted at College Street

April 26 - Celebrate International Flamingo Day with a "Pink Out" at the Louisville Zoo

Louisville Zoo to have Largest Chilean Flock in North America The Louisville Zoo is happy to announce that, with the recent addition of 49 Chilean flamingos, it is now hosting the largest Chilean flock in North America. The Zoo’s Chilean flamingo flock, also called a “flamboyance,” will feature an impressive 89 birds (up from 38). An additional two flamingos are expected to arrive soon. The Zoo is celebrating the arrival of its newest additions on April 26 with a “Pink Out.” Guests are encouraged to join in on the fun by wearing their brightest pink to the Zoo that day and receive $2 off admission at the windows. At 11 a.m., the flamboyance will march into their Americas Zone habitat in a stunning flurry of pink. International Flamingo Day was started in 2020 by the Flamingo Specialist Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to draw attention to the difference between the six flamingo species. Guests looking for additional ways to celebrate the new flamingo flock can become a symbolic parent through the Zoo’s ADOPTS program. “Adopt” the Zoo’s flamingo flock to help support their care! For more details, visit https://louisvillezoo.org/adopts. The Zoo is open daily, year-round. Current hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (stay until 6 p.m.) through September 17. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Updated links for Louisville Metro Government meeting information

Here are updated links for meeting information: agendas, minutes, and how to view meetings Once posted, the agendas for each meeting can be accessed at: https://louisvilleky.primegov.com/public/portal (password not needed). To view the attachments to an item, you must view the HTML version or the pdf version of the packet.  To open the attachments, run your cursor over the three dots to the right of the title and select “pdf” and it will open in a download on the bottom of your screen where you can scroll through the attached documents combined into one. The proceedings can also be viewed live on Metro TV, Spectrum Cable Channel 184, or UVERSE Channel 99, or streamed live from Swagit’s page at https://louisvilleky.new.swagit.com/views/506/ (select Watch Live) and on Facebook on the Louisville Metro Council’s page at https://www.facebook.com/LouisvilleMetroCouncil.  (The Swagit link is temporary and you’ll be able to view meetings on our PrimeGov webpage in a few weeks.) Archived meetings will soon be available on PrimeGov as well, but currently, they can be viewed on Legistar at  http://louisville.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=2.

Kentucky Nurses Association mobile unit offering COVID testing and vaccinations

The Kentucky Nurses Association is hosting more than 30 free COVID testing and vaccination clinics around the city from now until the end of June. Here is a complete list with dates, times and locations.

Louisville Metro Public Works road safety improvement and paving projects scheduled in D-10 for the week of April 24

The following projects are scheduled for paving work next week. The schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather and/or operational factors.

• Greenleaf Road from Rosemary Drive to Fern Drive
• Audubon Ridge Court from Audubon Ridge Drive to dead end
• Audubon Ridge Drive from Illinois Avenue to dead end
• Grantswood Court from Audubon Ridge Court to dead end

Louisville Metro Animal Services promotes Interim Director Ashley Book to Director role

Louisville Metro Animal Services is welcoming a new director - but turning to a familiar face.

Mayor Craig Greenberg announced Tuesday the hiring of Ashley Book. Book has been with Metro Animal Services since the summer of 2017 and the Interim Director since May of 2020.

Book has more than six years of animal shelter experience and has additionally served as a veterinary assistant. Born in Louisville, she holds a master’s degree in applied industrial and organizational psychology from Colorado State University. Book is also an Army Reserve veteran and served proudly during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

“My experience before and during LMAS has shown me how amazing our community is and how compassionate the citizens of Louisville are to their pets and our rescue animals,” said Book.

Book says her first order of business is to find ways to help citizens keep their pets during these times of uncertainty.

Book has a great passion for animals and currently has three dogs, two of which were adopted from LMAS; Atticus, Radley and Charles Baker Harris.

Book replaces Ozzy Gibson who was named Director in 2016. Gibson was moved in 2020 to lead numerous departments during the previous administration serving as a Chief. He is currently serving as the Interim Parks Director until a permanent director is hired. Mayor Greenberg has stated that Ozzy will be in another Metro Government leadership role to be announced at a later date.

“Ashely has done a remarkable job under difficult times the past three years. I am sure she will continue to build upon the success we have had since 2016,” Gibson said. “I am very proud of the work that we accomplished on my watch! Many thanks to Friends of Metro Animal Services, all the staff at LMAS, volunteers, fosters, community partners, elected officials and the Harshaw family”.

Stephanie Gumm, Chairman of Friends of Metro Animal Services, also praised Book’s appointment. “Ashley’s appointment to this position is a testament to her skills and experience. LMAS was extremely fortunate to have Ozzy at the helm and we are thrilled that the position is being handed over to someone of Ashley’s knowledge and deep compassion for animals,” said Gumm. “Ashley will bring a high level of enthusiasm and commitment that will allow LMAS to serve and benefit the community for years to come.”

It's okay to not be okay - help is available so connect 

When traumatic events happen, whether they affect you directly or indirectly, it’s OK to not be OK. Mental health experts recommend one of the best things anyone can do at a time like this is to connect with others and talk about how they’re feeling. Don’t isolate yourself. Therapy: A trained therapist can help you process your experiences and develop coping skills. Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of community and validation. Self-care: Taking care of yourself physically and mentally is crucial in the healing process. Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion. Education: Learning about trauma and its effects on the brain and body can help you better understand and manage your symptoms. Additional mental health and wellness resources: Dial 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Text “LOU” to 741741 Crisis Text Line Community Wellness Hub Mental Health Lou 502-414-4380 The Black Counseling & Consulting Collective 502-589-4313 Seven Counties 24/7 Adult Crisis Line 502-589-8070 Seven Counties 24/7 Child Crisis Line 502-583-3951 Seven Counties 24/7 Addiction Help Line 502-792-7011 Collective Care Center at Spalding University 502-588-2008 NAMI Louisville 1-800-273-8255 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-888-843-4564 LGBT National Help Center

Voting information for the May 16 primary

The deadline to register to vote in the primary has passed, as has the deadline to change party affiliation. 

Check your voter registration, making sure that your name, address, phone number, email and social security number are listed and correct, at www.GoVoteKY.com  (other voter registration sites will likely solicit you for donations)

The portal is open now through May 2 to request an absentee ballot:
https://vrsws.sos.ky.gov/abrweb/, or call 574-5886 or 574-5889. 

 To find out who will be on the ballot: https://web.sos.ky.gov/CandidateFilings/ Statewide: Governor, Attorney General, State Treasurer, Secretary of State, Auditor, and Agriculture Commissioner

Tree Debris Drop-Off

Through Saturday, April 22, Jefferson County residents may drop off tree debris for free at the Waste Reduction Center and Metro Fleet Services.

Contractors and businesses who are hauling debris are invited to use the Waste Reduction Center for the usual fee. 

• This free drop-off is for tree debris only.
• Residents will be asked to provide address.
• Locations and hours are 
  • Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Avenue
    • Tuesday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
    • Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Metro Fleet Services, 3515 Newburg Road
    • Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Preston Corridor Plan ready for public comment

The Preston Corridor Plan, prepared by Louisville Metro’s Office of Advanced Planning, is ready for public review. City planners have been working with transportation planning professionals from WSP Inc, MKSK, and EHI Consultants to develop a long-range plan for the Preston Corridor that aims to decrease the number of severe and fatal crashes on the roadway and improve the number and availability of useful transportation options along the corridor.

According to the Kentucky State Police, there have been 13 fatalities and 33 serious injuries on Preston Highway since the Preston Corridor Plan process began in 2021.

The full draft of the plan is available on the project website (www.prestoncorridorplan.org) along with a survey for the public to submit their feedback. The project team engaged with hundreds of people in person and over 1,500 in total during the previous rounds of public engagement.

To prioritize next steps and inform the public about expectations, the project team would like to connect with as many people possible during the public review period. Neighborhood associations, business associations, boards, commissions, congregations and other community-oriented groups along Preston Highway are encouraged to submit a presentation request by May 19. The public review period will run through the end of May.

Preston Area Business Alliance seeks executive director

The Preston Area Business Alliance (PABA) is seeking a part-time executive director. PABA is a network of business owners and community leaders dedicated to advancing business through enhanced connection, understanding, and action. We focus on supporting, promoting, and strengthening businesses along the Preston Corridor. PABA is a collective of individuals with personal or business interests along the corridor, and creates a platform for its members to strengthen business relationships through networking; voice their most pressing concerns in a unified way; and leverage the alliance as a resource for communicating trends, needs, and recommending strategy and vision for the future of the Preston Corridor. Please send resumes to pabacareers@gmail.com.

Help stop wire theft along Kentucky's highways

• Report any information about wire thefts at Kentucky interchanges to the KYTC Office of
  Inspector General (OIG) Office at 502-330-7506. If your information leads to an arrest and conviction, you may be eligible for the $5,000 reward.
• Report active crimes or suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
• Report dark intersections to the KYTC Traffic Operations Center at 877-FOR-KYTC

Reporting potholes

• Report online. 
• Use Twitter by sending the location of the hole to @LouMetro311 and include the hashtag #502pothole.
• Call Metro311 or 574-5000 to report potholes or any other issues. 

Buechel Bypass bridge closure this weekend

Closure necessary as contractor advances on repairs to bridge

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 9 p.m. on Friday to 5 a.m. on Monday between mile point 10.4 and 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.

Various closures have been in place for the bridge since 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 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.

Sidewalk over Goldsmith Lane bridge near Peabody Lane closed due to safety concerns

The sidewalk over the bridge structure on Goldsmith Lane near Peabody is closed until further notice. A Kentucky Transportation Cabinet inspection revealed safety concerns and closing the sidewalk will allow the driving lanes to remain open at this time.  The next steps will be to investigate and design a repair or replacement of the structure. Please watch for signage and use extra caution in the area.

Monthly Food Pantry at St Agnes Parish in partnership with Dare to Care

The monthly Food Pantry at St. Agnes Parish, in partnership with Dare to Care, distributes food to approximately 150 guest families the fourth Saturday of each month. The pantry operates from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and is open to all Louisville residents. Guests are served via a drive-through format and all Pantry volunteers are prescreened and wear masks as per CDC guidelines.

District 10 events

Louisville Zoo

Party for the Planet continues with Fun Day Monday and Earth Day observation April 30

The Louisville Zoo’s annual celebration, Party for the Planet: A Month-Long Celebration of the Earth, continues with Fun Day Monday, April 24. The celebration culminates on Sunday, April 30 when we observe Earth Day with $5 off on-site admission, free parking and eco-partner displays.  Louisville ZooPoopyDoo Compost Sales continue the final two Saturdays in April, plus May 13, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. for $45 per scoop. Only open-top truck beds and trailers will be loaded. To purchase online, visit louisvillezoo.org/zoopoopydoo

Wild Lights: Around the World through May 21

The Louisville Zoo hosts one of the largest lantern festivals in the nation, Wild Lights: Around the World, through May 21. Tickets are on sale. 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. This 46-night immersive experience features live cultural performances including Chinese folk dances, acrobatics and more. 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 to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday nights through May 21.

Louisville Nature Center

LNC to host three witches shakespeare May 11 to 14

Staged on the edge of the forest at the Louisville Nature Center, three witches shakespeare presents a fresh new rendition of A Midsummer Night’s Dream… The story is told with Y2K flair, and raucous humor. Thoughtful gender-bending serves to deepen the themes of the original story, while staying true to the familiar tale of fairies, magic, and the desire to be with the one you love. May 11-14, 7:00pm You can learn more about three witches shakespeare's A Midsummers Night's Dream. To increase the accessibility of this production, ticket pricing is scaled.

Upcoming programs at Louisville Nature Center

Native Gardening, Wednesday, April 26, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Are you a beginner gardener that wants to learn more about native plantings? Phyllis will give a presentation, plus Q & A session about how to create a native garden. After the presentation, she will take you on an optional tour of her private garden down the street from the Louisville Nature Center

Terrarium Workshop! Friday, April 28, 5 to 7 p.m.  Bring nature inside as you learn how to build a forest in a jar. Charlie, our Americorp member, will guide participants on how to create a sustainable habitat, flourishing with plants and other wildlife. We will provide all materials for building your habitat, but we ask that you bring a 1 quart jar of your choosing (lid not required). This is a great way to repurpose recycled materials! You will leave this workshop with a piece of the forest and information on how to care for your new habitat.

These and many other great programs are listed here. 

Summer camp registration Camp registration is open for Louisville Nature Center summer camp! Summer camp has sold out quickly the past few years, and we expect this year to be the same! Learn more about day camp and see our 2023 camp themes.  We cannot wait for another summer of adventure!

Brightside Cleanups continue

Cleanups are an integral part of Brightside's mission and without the help of volunteer groups, and many other volunteers throughout the year, Brightside could not achieve our goals of a cleaner, greener Louisville.

Neighborhoods can hold their own cleanups at any point throughout the year and we can provide gloves and bags for each Neighborhood Cleanup. We will work with Solid Waste Management to have the collected litter bags picked up. Give us a call at (502) 574-2613 or register online about two weeks prior to your event to schedule your cleanup and for information about getting supplies. 

April 29 - next event for adults at the Louisville Zoo

Monarchs and Mimosas is back on April 29 and September 9 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Guests, ages 21 and older, will learn how to create their own pollinator garden while enjoying refreshing mimosas and pastries. Zoo educators will provide guidance on the types of plants that are most beneficial to attracting pollinators, how to identify the best location and type of garden for specific spaces, and how to manage plants to provide the best habitat year-round. Participants will also be able to take home their own milkweed plant to begin their home habitat. Monarchs and Mimosas is $40 per person. Ironweed Native Plant Nursery will host a native plant sale at the front of the Zoo, with no admission required to visit the plant sale. 

The ever-popular Hump Day Happy Hours begin Wednesday, May 10 with Sunset Safari. This 21-and-older event includes specialty cocktails, appetizers and exclusive animal demonstrations and interactions. Tickets include entry, appetizers, and two drink tickets redeemable for beer, wine, or a specialty cocktail. Additional food and beverages will be available for purchase. This series continues July 12, September 13 and October 11, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and tickets are $40 each.

Trivia Nights make their return to the Zoo June 21 and August 16. These fun-filled evenings will feature music, prizes and of course, trivia! Food and drink specials will be available. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place teams. Advance registration is required; tickets go on sale April 19.

New for 2023, the Zoo has added Late Night Date Nights, a few film favorites to their popular summer movie series on June 30 and July 28. Gates open at 8 p.m.; movies will be shown under the stars in the Zoo’s Oasis festival field beginning at sundown. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Read more on date nights here.

Additional summer events for adults include Friends of the Louisville Zoo’s Zoofari!, June 10, and Brew at the Zoo and Wine, Too!, August 26.

May 12 - Shakespeare in the Parks in Joe Creason Park

Free 5K run/walk every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park

The Joe Creason parkrun is a free 5K that meets every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Joe Creason Park. Come join your friends and neighbors - parkrun is family and dog friendly and you can walk, jog or run or volunteer. More information can be found at parkrun.us/joecreason. They're also on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Louisville Metro news

Enrollment now open for LIHEAP spring subsidy

Automated appointment line now open to schedule appointments in advance

Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services joins with Community Action Agencies across the state to begin accepting applications for the 2023 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Spring Subsidy Cooling Component. This federally-funded program is designed to help offset the cost of higher electric bills due to rising temperatures. Applications will be accepted now through June 2 or until funds are depleted.

Applicants for the LIHEAP Spring Subsidy must be residents of Jefferson County with a household income at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty guidelines (e.g. for a household of four, the gross monthly income cannot exceed $3,250.00). 

The LIHEAP Spring Subsidy component provides households a one-time benefit ranging from $38 to $200 depending on income levels and housing category. Residents can apply regardless of the status of their utility bills. The benefit amount is paid directly to the electric vendor (i.e. LG&E).

“The LIHEAP Spring Subsidy will help to take the burden off of Louisvillians,” said Tameka Laird, director of the city’s Office of Resilience and Community Services. “Our agency proudly offers financial assistance like LIHEAP to families who need it the most.  When it is combined with other Community Action services, LIHEAP is vital in helping families and communities.”

Jefferson County residents wishing to apply must schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling 502-991-8391 or online at louisvilleky.cascheduler.com. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Required documentation includes:

• Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household. 
• Proof of all household’s (all members) income from the preceding month.  (Ex. Food Stamp award letter, Social Security Award Letter, pay stubs, etc. or other proof of $0 income). Note: Zero Income forms are available at the LIHEAP locations or online at www.louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP
• Most current electric bill, or statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, or statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program. The account number and name on the electric bill must also be provided. 

There are seven LIHEAP locations for the 2023 LIHEAP Spring Subsidy program

• South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave., 40215
• Neighborhood Place Ujima, 3610 Bohne Ave., 40211
• Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place,1411 Algonquin Pkwy., 40210
• Newburg Community Center, 4810 Exeter Ave., 40218
• Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, 40216
• Northwest Neighborhood Place, 4018 W. Market St., 40212
• Charmoli Neighborhood Place, 9100 Marksfield Rd., Ste. 100, 40222

For more descriptions about LIHEAP income eligibility and other instructions, visit https://louisvilleky.gov/LIHEAP. Residents may also call the automated LIHEAP information line at 502/991-8391 or visit www.louisvilleky.cascheduler.com.

Individuals who require more information can contact Metro311 by simply dialing 311 or (502) 574-5000, email metro.311@louisvilleky.gov, tweet @LouMetro311, Web:  louisvilleky.gov/tell311, or download the free Mobile Louisville Metro 311 app from the website. Residents can also call Metro United Way’s 2-1-1 help referral service.

Help us support St. Bernadette's Diaper Bank

The Office for Women is supporting St. Bernadette’s Diaper Bank this year for Mayor’s Give A Day. The Diaper Bank provides diapers to organizations across Louisville who then distribute them to families in need. Last year, they increased the number of agencies they serve from 13 to almost 30 and need additional diapers to help meet the growing need. Their highest need is for pull-up diapers and larger sizes (4-5). There are donation bins in the Office for Women, outside of Suite 201 in Metro Hall and in the first floor lobby of Metro Hall at 527 West Jefferson Street. Learn more about diaper need.

Louisville Metro Health and Wellness offering fulfilling summer jobs

Are you mission driven? Are you interested in improving the health and wellness of all residents of our city?  If the answer is yes, we invite you to be a part of a dedicated team.   Please apply today.

For more information, please email LMPHWCareers@louisvilleky.gov. 

Sign up now for the Mayor's Give a Day Celebration of Service 

Cherokee Park Bridge #2 closed for construction through mid-May

Bridge #2 in Cherokee Park, just south of the base of Cochran Hill Road, closed March 17 and will be closed for about two months for a restoration project. Pedestrians and vehicles will be detoured around the bridge construction site via the map on the right. Construction is funded through the Bridges Kentucky program administered by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Appointment system phasing in

Large Item Pickup by appointment is being phased into the entire Urban Services District. Now, you can quickly get rid of up to four large items, once per week, by simply making an appointment on the Metro311 app or website. This means more opportunities to dispose of large items, less "junk" sitting out for weeks, and improved neighborhood cleanliness!

Monday, March 6 all areas will be eligible to make Large Item Pickup appointments! When your address is on the appointment system, you can make an appointment up to once per week for up to 4 large items to be picked up. Households and property owners will receive a letter and info card in the mail. 

If you'd like a representative to attend a community meeting and share about this program or other waste-related topics, contact the Solid Waste Education Department. 

Learn more at Louisvilleky.gov/LargeItems!

Income tax preparation assistance available 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. 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 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) to residents. Learn more about the Tax Time Connect, financial counseling and other resources.  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.

AARP Tax-Aide 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 are operating:  http://www.aarp-tax-aide-lou.org.

Assistance

The Louisville Metro Down Payment Assistance Program provides low- to moderate-income homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance for purchasing a home in the Louisville Metro area.

The Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund is a program that can help homeowners impacted by the pandemic rebound and avoid foreclosure. Qualifying homeowners can apply for up to $46,350 in assistance to help with delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes, homeowner’s and/or flood insurance, homeowners association fees and utility costs. 

FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred on or after January 20, 2020. Eligibility requirements and instructions on how to apply are available online FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance and through FEMA's dedicated helpline at 1-844-684-6333.

If you're 65 years old, own and occupy your primary residence, you may qualify to exempt the first $39,300 of your home value from property taxes through the The Homestead Exemption. Vets with service connected disabilities and totally/permanently disabled civilians may also qualify.

Locate Dare to Care food assistance locations, which include St. Stephen Martyr at 3015 Greenup Road, from 3:45 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays. Please call before visiting sites to verify hours of operation. 

Meals on Wheels is available to qualified seniors in Jefferson County, 60 years or older, who are homebound with no one available to help prepare meals. Call 574-6325 to begin the qualification process. For information on the senior congregate sites for more active seniors, 60 and older, call the number above or sign up at the RCS page. Sites require a one-day advance reservation. See the updated list of open congregate sites.  The Senior Nutrition Program seeks volunteers all year long to help in a variety of capacities. For more information, call 574-6420.

LMPD - which numbers to call for emergencies, non-emergencies, and ongoing criminal activity complaints

The most efficient manner to report crime and/or request to speak to an officer is to call Metrosafe Dispatch at 574-2111 (5) Furthermore, if the efforts of the officer were not reasonably adequate to address the concern or issue, a citizen can immediately call Metrosafe back and request for an LMPD supervisor to contact them.  For non-emergencies, dial 574-2111 (5)  for non-violent crimes, non-injury auto accidents, or to report a crime that has already occurred.  For emergencies, dial 911 for violent crime in progress, serious injury auto accidents, or immediate threat to human life.  To report ongoing criminal activity, dial 574-5673, the LMPD Tip Line, for drug dealing, prostitution, gang activity, or any information that may help close open investigations.

Louisville Metro events

Free workshops focused on mental health and wellness 

Mental Health Lou  and Louisville Free Public Library will offer free workshops focused on mental health and wellness starting in March. The Mind-Body Wellness Series is a four-part series that focuses on the ways in which our thoughts, feelings, and beliefs can positively or negatively impact our bodies and vice versa.

Taught by licensed experts from Mental Health Lou’s partner groups and providers, the series will be offered at the library branches listed below. 

Each workshop in the series addresses a different topic:

• Discovering the Mind-Body Connection: Participants will learn ways to identify and connect feelings, thoughts and somatic responses and develop tools to help manage stress, anxiety, depression and more.
• Movement & Mental Health: This workshop looks at the impact of movement on our mental health by extending into yogic practices and breathing techniques for individuals to use as a means of self-care and deepen their connection with their bodies.
• Practical Mindfulness for Stress Management: Participants will learn basic tools to help identify stressors and implement Mindfulness techniques to manage/decrease stress response. This will be an experiential workshop that focuses on skill building of stress management tools.
• Taking Charge of Your Wellbeing: Workshop participants will begin developing a realistic and easily executable self-care plan with the help of a mental health therapist.

• Mondays in April, 6 p.m. - Main Library
• Tuesdays in April, 6 p.m. - Newburg Library
• Tuesdays, May 9 -30, 6 p.m. - Western Library
• Wednesdays, May 10-31, 6 p.m. - Bon Air Library

Learn more about the series.

April 25 - Conversation with a City Planner about zoning

April 26 - "How does a city go solar?" virtual conversation

Clearing the way for solar power in Louisville: Will state government and LG&E help or hurt Louisville’s clean energy future?

A solar power future for Louisville faces roadblocks on the way to meeting the city’s renewable energy goal. A virtual event April 26 will explore what those hurdles are and how to overcome them. This is “REAL Good News” tenth in a series of quarterly public Zoom meetings aimed at making sure Louisville implements its green energy goals.

In 2020 the Metro Council passed a resolution to move the city’s operations to 100 percent clean renewable electricity by 2030. That resolution also sets a goal of 100 percent clean energy for the entire Louisville community by 2040. April’s event will feature a discussion by an expert panel on how other cities have transitioned to solar and how Louisville can follow their example. Speakers will include Steve Ricketts, chair of the Kentucky Solar Energy Society and owner of Generation Solar; Ryan Van Velzer, Energy and Environmental Reporter at Louisville Public Media; and Andrew Owen, newly-elected Metro Council Representative for District 9.

Music by Louisville musician and activist John Gage will open and close the event. People attending will also be encouraged to attend Metro Council meetings to speak in favor of implementing Louisville's clean energy resolution. The REAL Good News event will run from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The three sponsoring organizations are 100%REAL, Kentucky Interfaith Power and Light, and the Christian Action group of St. Paul United Methodist Church.

The event is free but registration is required. Here’s the url for the Zoom link to register: https://tinyurl.com/3xzya46s More information is available at the 100%REAL website: https://renewableenergylouisville.org/events.html

April 25 - Wellspring Derby preview party

May 15 - Community Convening on Human Trafficking

May 19 and 20 - next volunteer training at Hildegard House

Join our community of compassionate volunteers at Hildegard House. We provide a home and compassionate care for individuals at the end of life who have no home or loved ones to care for them so that they may die with dignity and access hospice care. We are the family for our residents and care for them just like family members. Compassionate Companions commit to a weekly five-hour shift. The next volunteer training is May 19 and 20. Learn more about volunteering and register at www.hildegardhouse.org or call Volunteer Coordinator Jana McNally at 581-8267.

May 20 - The Neighborhood Summit returns to Louisville

Join the in-person learning event and “Bloom Where You’re Planted!” Center For Neighborhoods is proudly hosting this year's Neighborhood Summit on Saturday, May 20 at Neighborhood House, 201 N. 25th Street. With the pandemic largely behind us, we anticipate this will be our most successful Neighborhood Summit to date. More than 250 attendees will be joining together to build connections and knowledge-sharing, guided by the theme “Bloom Where You’re Planted: Embracing Your Power in the Place You Call Home.”  

The Neighborhood Summit is an in-person, half-day conference that showcases community-building success stories and celebrates inspired neighborhood development across Louisville. Through interactive workshops, engaging keynote speakers, and networking breakouts, attendees learn about community achievements, make valuable connections, and recognize leaders affecting positive change in the places and spaces we live in. 

Register for the Summit.

May 20 - Next Pop-Up Drop-Off 

News you can use

District 10 CIF and NDF appropriations

Councilman Mulvihill-initiated D-10 Capital Improvement Funds (CIF) appropriations documentation dating to 2016 is linked here.  The D-10 Neighborhood Development Funds (NDF) appropriations document is linked here.

ABC advertisement run for 3301 Newburg Road

An Alcoholic Beverage Control ad ran April 13 in the Louisville Courier-Journal for an NQ Retail Malt Beverage Package and a Transitional Malt Beverage License for SGS Trades, LLC, dba/SGS Food Mart at 3301 Newburg Road. 

Any person, association, corporation or body politic may protest the granting of the licenses by writing the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, 500 Mero Street, 2 NE 33, Frankfort, KY 40601, within 30 days (KRS 243.430) of the date of this legal publication. 

Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services District 10 cases

Note: short term rental is the general term used to describe vacation rentals including AirBNB, VRBO, and Tripping. 

Recent applications/revised applications to Louisville Metro Planning and Design Services: 

23-ZONE-0033, 1618 Lincoln Avenue, application for a Change in Zoning from R-5 to C-1 to allow for a law office and commercial kitchen in an existing building on 0.10 acres.

23-LANDSCAPE-0028, 2703 Preston Highway, a Landscape Plan for expansion of an existing liquor store with 3 apartments on the second floor on 0.33 acres in the C1 zoning district. 

23-CUPPA-0115, 6500 Six Mile Lane, a Conditional Use Permit  for a school extension and sports gym on 7.1025 acres in the R-4 zoning district. 

April 24 - Public hearing regarding 3921 Marwood Place

22-CAT3-0009, 3910 Produce Road, a Category 3 Plan Application for a storage/distribution warehouse. Exeter Warehouse. 

23-CAT2-0009, 4501 Poplar Level Road, revised application submittal for Category 2B development for a 4,309 S.F. warehouse with loading and parking area on 0.4777 acres in the M-2 zoning district. Chaparro's Warehouse.

22-CAT2-0037, 4601 East Indian Trail, Building 2, a category 2B application for a 67,500 square foot warehouse/office building on 8.8 acres in the M-2 zoning district.

21-DDP-0087, 2020 Bashford Manor Lane, a District Development Plan for a building expansion. Walmart Fulfillment Center. 

2703 Preston Highway: 

23-LANDSCAPE-0028, 2703 Preston Highway, a Landscape Plan for expansion of an existing liquor store with three apartments on the second floor on 0.33 acres in the C1 zoning district. 

22-CAT2-0034, 2703 Preston Highway, Revision of a Category 2B Plan for a proposed 6,525 sq ft retail and residential addition on .33 acres in the C-1 zoning district.

4819 Poplar Level Road: 

21-DDP-0073, 4819 Poplar Level Road, a revised District Development Plan to construct an office/warehouse on 1.41 acres in the CM Zoning District. Louisville Countertop. 

21-WAIVER-0112, 4819 Poplar Level Road, a request for a Landscape Waiver to the required 35-foot landscape buffer along the northwestern property line on 1.41 acres in the CM Zoning District. Louisville Countertop. 

21-MVARIANCE-0003, 4819 Poplar Level Road, a Modified Variance to allow encroachment into the 25-foot building setback on 1.41 acres in the CM Zoning District. Louisville Countertop.

4730 Champions Trace Lane:

19-DDP-0077, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a Revised District Development Plan for a medical office and dialysis center on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

19-VARIANCE-0076, 4730 Champions Trace Lane, a variance from section 4.8.1 of the Land Development Code to allow the proposed pavement to encroach into the middle and outer 100-foot stream buffer for a medical office on 1.4 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

19-LANDSCAPE-0050, 2128 Old Shepherdsville Road, Revision of a Landscape Plan for a private automobile parking area on 0.74 acres in the C1 zoning district.

23-MPLAT-0041, 1551 Indiana Avenue, a Minor Plat application to create two tracts from one tract on 0.7233 acres in the R-5 zoning district.

22-MPLAT-0044,4322 Mildaun Road, application for a Minor Plat change to create two lots from one on .736 acres in the R-4 zoning district and SW form district. Bicker Division.

22-MPLAT-0044, 4322 Milldaun Road, a Minor Plat to create two lots from one on .736 acres in the R-4 zoning district and SW form district.

21-MPLAT-0011, for 3901 Atkinson Square Drive, a Minor Plat Application to create two lots from one lot on 9.59 acres in the C2 zoning district. 

22-VARIANCE-0168, 3119 Harmon Court, a Variance from Section 5.3.11 to allow a garage to encroach 20 feet into the required rear yard on 0.139 acres in the R5 zoning district.

20-WAIVER-0136, for 6000 Six Mile Lane, a waiver to allow a residential driveway onto a collector roadway on 0.462 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

21-WAIVER-0140, 1200 Hodel Road, a waiver to reduce the required vehicular use area on 1.45 acres in the M-3 Zoning district.

19-WAIVER-0016, 4500 Champions Trace Lane, a sidewalk waiver request for requirement along Champions Trace Lane. 

2814 Newburg Road

19-WAIVER-0112, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver for the sidewalk requirement along Newburg Road. 
19-WAIVER-0113, 2814 Newburg Road, a waiver to allow detached houses to abut a private street.  

22-ZONE-0169, 2221 Bradford Drive, a change in zoning from R-5 to R-6 on 5.4 acres for a 94 unit multi-family development. 

23-ZONE-0033, 1618 Lincoln Avenue, application for a change in Zoning from R-5 to C-1 to allow for a law office and commercial kitchen in an existing building on 0.10 acres.

23-ZONEPA-0034 , 1391 Gardiner Lane, application for a change in Zoning from OR-3 to OR-3 and C-1 for Lee Hospitality Hotel & Apartments on 4.822 acres.

Short Term Rental cases

23-CUPPA-0101, 1675 Christian Street, a Conditional Use Permit application for a Short Term Rental on 0.1833 acres in the R-5 zoning district.

23-CUPPA-0063, 1537 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit Pre-Application for a Short Term Rental on 0.08 acres in the R-5 zoning district.

23-CUPPA-0062, 3709 Willmar Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit Pre-Application for a non-primary residence Short Term Rental on 0.2602 acres in the R-4 zoning district.

23-CUPPA-0014, 1628 Belmar Drive, application for a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.13 acres in the R5 zoning district.

23-CUP-0024, 3921 Marwood Place, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental at a non-primary residence on 0.15 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

22-CUP-0408, 1000 Parkway Drive, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.17 acres in the R5 zoning district

22-CUP-0373, 1724 O'Daniel Avenue, application for a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.21 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

22-CUP-0066, 1607 Orchard Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on .14 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

20-CUP-0147 for 1500 Lincoln Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a short term rental at a non primary residence on 0.18 acres in the R5 zoning district.

19CUP1017, 2606 Pindell Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a short term rental on 0.1197 acres in the R5 zoning district. 

18CUP1130 for 3762 Illinois Avenue, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental of a non-primary residence in the R-5 zoning district.

Check on Planning and Design Services cases.

In D-21 but nearby: 22-STRCLOSUREPA-0031, 1305 Durrett Lane, a Street and Alley Closure Pre-Application from Durrett Lane to I-264. Louisville Dive Center.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with new interactive map

Short term rental enforcement continues in large part to be complaint-driven, based on public reporting of alleged violations to administrators. An interactive map tool contains all of the registered short term rentals in Louisville having an active permit to rent their property out to paying customers on STR websites like Airbnb. If you believe someone is using a property as a short term rental but it does not show up on this registry, or if the registry indicates a non-owner occupied property does not have a CUP, then please report the issue here (select “Zoning and Business Concerns,” “Zoning Concern,” “Short Term Rental,” complete the form and submit). Or contact our office.

Driver licensing - REAL ID enforcement date extended to May 7, 2025

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID Act enforcement date by two years offering Kentuckians, and residents of other states, more time to request a compliant driving or identity credential that maintains air travel access and military base entry. The enforcement date has been moved from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025. Read details on REAL ID.

Be informed about crimes with LMPD's crime mapping website

The Louisville Metro Police Department uses a Crime Mapping website to display crime on a map in Jefferson County.  Zoom in to see crimes in an area, or put an address in the address bar at top left to search. You may sign up for auto email alerts for crime around an address. Reports are made available to the public after a process of internal review, often in the same day as the report taken. Due to the nature of some crimes, reports are made available to public upon the completion of a thorough investigation and will be made available as soon as practical. These LMPD divisions serve sections of District 10: Link to LMPD Fourth Division  Link to LMPD Fifth Division Link to LMPD Sixth Division

Know the signs of human trafficking - you could save a life

Do you know the indicators of human trafficking? You could save a life.  If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-888-373-7888 to speak with a specially trained Anti-Trafficking Hotline Advocate. Support is provided in more than 200 languages. We are here to listen and connect you with the help you need to stay safe. Callers can dial 711 to access the Hotline using TTY. Or text at 233733. Message and data rates may apply. You can also email at help@humantraffickinghotline.org  or submit a tip online here.

Veterans Crisis Line 

Some offices and VA hospitals offer a "Health Promotion Disease Prevention Program" that includes treatment methods including acupuncture, tai chi, and meditation instead of opioids, and they work with the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255, Press 1) to provide support and treatment for PTSD and depression, the leading cause of suicide for veterans. Additional references for VA material and assistance or 1-877-WAR-VETS. Lifestyle changes for better health, or sexual trauma.

"Embrace the Journey" website for parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents

For LGBTQ+ children and adolescents,a parent’s support makes all the difference. The Embrace the Journey website is designed to educate the parents of LGBTQ+ children and adolescents about how to give children the emotional support they need.

Streetlight out? Report it. 

Please report non-working streetlights to LG&E.  Report a hazard on a state road or highway, such as non-working highway lighting or potholes.

Report litterers

Get directly involved in making Louisville a more litter-free community through the Report-A-Litterer program aimed at motorists who throw fast-food wrappers, cigarette butts, soda bottles or any type of litter out their car window.

Would you like to serve on one of Louisville Metro's Boards or Commissions? 

Interested in volunteering for one of Louisville Metro Government's Boards and Commissions? Serving on a board or commission, you will have a chance to improve the quality of life in our community. There are approximately 100 boards and commissions with many areas of interest, including business and economic development, land planning, parks and recreation, public health and public safety. Read more about board applications.

If you know of a community event you'd like to be considered for inclusion on the District 10 enews, let us know. Please email our office or call 574-1110.

You are receiving this email because you have signed up for the enews or have contacted our office for assistance. If you would like to be removed from this communication please email Sara Feltner with "REMOVE" in the subject line.