Abeo was born on June 28 at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Washington, to first-time mom Akenji. Unfortunately, Akenji was unable to bond with her newborn, and a subsequent foster arrangement was also unsuccessful. In response, Woodland Park Zoo officials worked swiftly with the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP), a cooperative breeding program managed by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), to secure a new home for Abeo. The Louisville Zoo’s Kweli was selected due to her successful experience fostering Kindi, the Zoo’s now 8-year-old sub-adult female gorilla, who was orphaned shortly after birth.

“Kweli has been an exemplary foster mom, first with Kindi and now with Abeo,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “We are incredibly proud of Kweli’s care and her attentiveness. Like our visitors, we are looking forward to watching Abeo grow and thrive with the family troop at Gorilla Forest.” “All of us at Woodland Park Zoo are celebrating that baby Abeo is now in the arms of gorilla Kweli. This is how it should be for a baby gorilla—being in the direct care of a gorilla and being socialized with a family of gorillas,” said Martin Ramirez, Interim Senior Director of Animal Care at Woodland Park Zoo. “Our zoo family is so grateful to Louisville Zoo and their dedicated gorilla experts. All the way from the Pacific Northwest, our zoo family and community will continue to enjoy watching Abeo grow to be a confident and secure gorilla.” For over a month, the Gorilla Forest team has provided round-the-clock care for Abeo, including feeding and socializing him using vocal and behavioral cues similar to those of a gorilla mother. After meeting key milestones, including responding to behavioral cues and navigating the habitat, Abeo was introduced to Kweli through closely monitored bonding. Over the coming weeks, Abeo and Kweli will be integrated with the rest of the gorilla troop that includes silverback Casey (42 years old), and adult females Paki (35 years old) and Patty (11 years old), and sub-adult female Kindi (8 years old). The group will rotate on exhibit with bachelor gorillas Bengati, Jelani, Cecil and Kicho.

Clean Collaborative Crew, Brightside, W.E.B. Dubois Academy students team up for cleaner streets

The Clean Collaborative Crew removed 356 bags of litter, six tires, and 29 other items from 107.27 curb miles last week alone!  Collaborations last week included Brightside and W.E.B. Dubois Academy. We extend a special thank you to students from W.E.B. Dubois Academy, who worked with Brightside in a Trash for Cash cleanup! The group is pictured at the right.  Trash for Cash, a state program being rolled out in Louisville for the first time, helps ensure roadways around Louisville are kept clean while raising money for local youth-serving nonprofits. Qualified nonprofits can apply through Brightside.

Two more bats test positive for rabies in Louisville

Two more bats have tested positive for rabies in Louisville this year. One bat was discovered at a home in the St. Matthews area, while the other was found at a house in Buechel.

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is reminding the public to avoid touching a bat if they come across one. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that encounters with rabid bats is the leading cause of rabies in humans across the United States.

Preventing rabies includes vaccinating pets, steering clear of wildlife, and seeking immediate medical attention in the event of potential exposure.

 If you encounter a bat in your home: 

• If possible, close the door to isolate the bat in the room. 
• Contact your doctor and LMPHW at 574-6650 right away. The health department will arrange for the bat to be collected and tested for rabies.
• If you know you have been bitten or scratched by a bat:
• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
• If the bat tests negative for rabies, you will not need postexposure treatment.
• If you do not know how the bat got into your home, you will also need to contact a bat remediation specialist to determine if bats are living in your home.

If your pet encounters a bat: 

• Contact LMPHW at 574-6650 or email publicfacilities@louisvilleky.gov. Your pet may need to be quarantined to ensure rabies is not transmitted. Please advise the health department if you choose to have your pet quarantined at another location besides your home. 
• If your pet bites or scratches someone during a rabies exposure quarantine, you must report the incident to us at 574-6650.

If you have general questions regarding bats or rabies, contact the LMPHW Rabies Prevention Program at 574-6650. 

Reminder to check your voter registration by October 7 for the November 5 general election

Check your Kentucky voter registration, and review your polling place. 

Application for mail-in absentee voting open to October 22

September 21 to October 22, Jefferson County residents who qualify for mail-in absentee voting may apply through the online portal. 

Voters who receive their requested mail-in ballot can mail it in or deliver it to an official secure Jefferson County Clerk’s Office election drop box. All ballots must be turned in by 6 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5.

October 8 - Public Hearing regarding Public Comment Notice for citizen input on Pathways to Removing Obstacles FY24 PRO Housing NOFO

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has issued a competitive NOFO titled Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) for the purpose of providing grant funding for the identification and removal of barriers to affordable housing production and preservation.

Louisville Metro Government will hold one public hearing: Tuesday October 8, at 1 p.m., at 444 South 5th Street, in the first-floor conference room. The purpose of the meeting is to receive citizen comment on the draft of Metro’s 2024 PRO Housing NOFO Grant. This meeting will be held in person and streamed virtually via Teams. Access the meeting.

The public comment period is open through October 11. View the draft. 

A hard copy of the draft is also available at the Metro Development Center at 444 S. 5th Street. Citizens may submit written comments on the Draft via email to wendy.fierberg@louisvilleky.gov or via US Mail to: Office of Housing and Community Development,  ATTN: Wendy Fierberg, 444 S. 5th Street, Suite 500, Louisville, KY 40202.

For further information, or to ensure reasonable accommodations are made for persons with disabilities or persons who are Limited English Proficient, please call Wendy Fierberg at 574-8031.

Housing & Mixed Use Development Study DRAFT Analysis Map and recommendations available for review and comment

In conjunction with the ongoing Land Development Code (LDC) Reform process, the Office of Planning was tasked by Metro Council to study the existing development patterns in Louisville Metro and identify areas where new housing opportunities can be unlocked. Working with the planning and urban design firm Opticos Design, the Office of Planning has developed the Housing & Mixed Use Development Study. The study analyzed existing conditions like land use, zoning, lot sizes, and infrastructure to identify areas that can support more housing, shown on the Analysis Map. After the Analysis Map was presented for public review in February 2024, the planning team worked to refine the map and develop a series of implementation strategies to help realize the identified potential for new housing. Drafts of the final materials for the study are now available for review and comment on the Office of Planning website, including a Story Map, the Analysis Map, and the draft Implementation Strategies Report.

The Office of Planning intends to adopt the Housing & Mixed Use Development Study and the Analysis Map as an amendment to Plan 2040, the comprehensive plan, after integrating public comment and feedback on the draft materials. The comment period will be open until at least November 1, with the option to extend if necessary.

You can access all of the Housing & Mixed Use Development Study draft materials, including the comment form, on the Office of Planning website: https://louisvilleky.gov/government/office-planning/housing-mixed-use-development-study.

Mental Illness Awareness Week: It's OK to not be OK

Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition — but mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly through family, friends or coworkers. That is why each year, during the first week of October, health professionals and advocates across the country raise awareness, fight discrimination and provide support.  What is a mental illness?   A mental illness is a condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, behavior or mood. These conditions deeply impact day-to-day living and may also affect the ability to relate to others. If you have — or think you might have — a mental illness, the first thing you must know is that you are not alone. Mental health conditions are far more common than you think, mainly because people don’t like to, or are scared to, talk about them. However: 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. About 1 in 25 U.S. adults lives with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year Over 1 in 5 youth (ages 13-18) either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness. 50 percent of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75 percent by age 24. A mental health condition isn’t the result of one event. Research suggests multiple, linking causes. Genetics, environment and lifestyle influence whether someone develops a mental health condition. A stressful job or home life makes some people more susceptible, as do traumatic life events. Biochemical processes and circuits and basic brain structure may play a role, too. None of this means that you’re broken or that you, or your family, did something “wrong.” Mental illness is no one’s fault. And for many people, recovery — including meaningful roles in social life, school and work — is possible, especially when you start treatment early and play a strong role in your own recovery process. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You can also visit our Community Mental Health Services webpage for a listing of mental health resources. Are you looking for a wellness provider? Visit Mental Health Lou for a listing of local professionals.

October 8 - National Alliance on Mental Illness special event

Shelters are full - consider fostering a dog or cat

Louisville Parks and Recreation athletic signups

Little Futsal League

Our Little Futsal League will start this November! It's for ages 3 to 4 and Tuesdays from November 12 to December 17. Teams will meet for drills and fundamentals followed by a short game. The registration deadline is Sunday, October 13. Registration fee is $20. Little Futsal games are played on the gym floor at Cyril Allgeier Community Center, so participants should not wear cleats. 

Scan the code below or register at bestparksever.com.

Parks is always in need of volunteer coaches for both Little Futsal and Youth Soccer. 

Youth Fall Soccer

Registration is open for Youth Fall Soccer! This league is for ages 3-11 and will be at Petersburg Park, 5008 East Indian Trail. 

• Three to four year olds practice and play ONLY on Saturdays.
• Five to 11 year olds will practice one night a week and play games on Saturdays.

Register online at bestparksever.com. or scan the QR code below. 

Fall Pickleball Leagues

Sign up now for our Fall Pickleball Leagues! These leagues are organized by playing ability and divided into two sessions: 

Session I - September 4 to October 11

• Outdoors at Iroquois Park
  • Level 3 Wednesday evenings
  • Level 2 Friday mornings 
• Indoors at Cyril Allgeier
  • Level 101 Thursday mornings

Session II - October 15 to November 22

• Indoors at Cyril Allgeier
  • Level 2 and 3 Tuesday evenings
  • Level 2 Friday mornings
  • Level 101 Thursday mornings

Register online at bestparksever.com. or scan the QR code below. 

Remember the Camp Taylor Elementary School pantry as you shop

Tiffany Bolling from the Family Resource Center has reached out to request food donations for the school pantry at Camp Taylor Elementary School. 

Not only do we feed our students and their families at Camp Taylor and Audubon Traditional Elementary Schools, we also have a food pantry in front of the school to feed the community. 

Our pantry is usually stocked through Dare to Care, but the food goes so quickly. Our homeless demographic has doubled from last school year. I am trying to keep up with the nutritional support I can provide, but it's a struggle.

If you are able to assist in getting us food to fill our pantry, donations can be sent to: Camp Taylor Elementary School, The Kid Connection FRC, 1446 Belmar Drive, Louisville, KY, 40213. 

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.

Reminder of leash law for all public dog walkers

District 10 events

Through October 27 - Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer

The Louisville Zoo’s ever-popular Boo at the Zoo presented by Meijer is celebrating 43 years of merry, not scary fun! Tickets are available now at louisvillezoo.org/boo. This Louisville tradition runs through October 27, on Thursday through Sunday nights. Tickets are all-inclusive and include Boo at the Zoo admission, parking, Spooktacular Carousel, “not-so-itsy-bitsy” Spider House and the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow attraction. Children and adults are invited to dress up in their wildest costumes for the after-hours event, which is rain or shine.  Tickets are $13.50 for all non-members three and older and $7 for all members three and older. Children two and under are free and do not require a ticket . Members and guests can purchase tickets online at louisvillezoo.org/boo, with their chosen date and arrival time. Ticket capacity is limited each night with popular nights expected to sell out quickly. The D-10 office has Boo at the Zoo tickets to give away, each person may request up to three tickets. Please email geoff.wohl@louisvilleky.gov with your request, this is first come first served.  On event days, the Zoo will close early for regular daytime visitors. Gates will close at 3 p.m. with guests being allowed to visit until 4 p.m. The party starts at 5 p.m. and Halloween guests will enter the Zoo at their ticketed time until 9 p.m., with closing at 10 p.m. Special Dates: Sensory-Friendly Hours at Boo at the Zoo, Sunday, October 20, enter 5 to 6:30 p.m., enjoy until 7 p.m. This night will feature a sensory-friendly trick-or-treating experience during these special hours with fewer lights, lower music and smaller crowds. Tickets are very limited so purchase early to reserve your spot. Allergy-Friendly Night, Wednesday, October 23, features peanut-free treat booths and added non-food treats like stickers, pencils and more.

Louisville Nature Center

Louisville Nature Center Events - view complete list

Enchanted Forest Join us for an unforgettable enchanted evening! Experience LNC programming first-hand and enjoy craft cocktails in the forest while listening to live music by Squeeze-bot. Tickets are on sale now!  Price includes a complimentary cocktail, heavy hors d'ouevres, and desserts. The event is October 12 from 7 to 10 p.m. Attendees will get an exclusive peek at Louisville Nature Center's plan for the future, and an opportunity to be a part of that vision. Celebrate our vision for the future of LNC Our center has become too small, outdated, and worn out. We are undergoing a new Site Capital Improvement Planning process and interior renovations so that we can continue to provide the community with the quality environmental education people need to be good stewards of our earth, and to be informed community members shaping our future. A city the size of Louisville needs a high-quality nature center, and LNC is ready to cement our role as the hub of environmental education in Louisville now and in the future. We invite you to help shape the future of conservation in Louisville!

Highlands-Shelby Park Library events

Please check dates and times at wfpl.org.  Beginning Bridge Lessons with Sandy Spears, Tuesday, October 8, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Sharpen your bridge by learning Stayman/Transfers, preemptive bids, doubles of many types, overcalls, and general competitive bidding. Call 574-1672 to enroll in this 12-week course. Taught by ACBL certified Bridge Teacher Sandy Spears. Creating Characters: the Good, the Bad, & the Unforgettable, Wednesday, October 9, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Mystery writer Beverle Graves Myers will discuss how she develops characters. Not only the kind of characters we love to read, but the kind of characters that get in our head and redecorate the place. She’ll also explain how readers participate in completing the process the writer starts. Myers’ publications include the Tito Amato Mystery series set in baroque Venice and numerous short stories.  Once Upon an Orchestra: Bear Snores On, Thursday, October 10, 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. The Louisville Orchestra and the Louisville Free Public Library are proud to present the 2024-2025 season of Once Upon and Orchestra. Through this free, public family concert series, multigenerational families are invited to join Louisville Orchestra ensembles for fun, interactive storytelling through-music performances at every library branch across Metro Louisville.

Louisville Metro Animal Services is having a Trunk or Treat event Sunday, October 6

October 7 - League of Women Voters Candidate Forum for Kentucky House District 41

October 24 - Planning Study public meeting set for KY 61/Preston Highway improvements in Jefferson County

KYTC seeks comments on potential safety, mobility changes

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will hold a public meeting on Thursday, Oct. 24, at the South Central Regional Library, 7300 Jefferson Blvd., to update citizens on the next phase of the Preston Transportation Plan, which identifies short-term and long-term improvements for the roughly seven-mile corridor on Preston Highway between I-264 (Watterson Expressway) and I-265 (Gene Snyder Freeway). 

A public meeting was held May 21 to inform the community on the Preston Transportation Plan and to gather feedback regarding the study. The project team listened to the concerns and suggestions from attendees and are now seeking input on improvement concepts that have been developed for the next phase of the study. During the upcoming Oct. 24 meeting, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) will showcase design concepts that reflect the input received from the initial phase of the study.

The Oct. 24 meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. and will be conducted in an open-house format, allowing attendees to view various exhibits, talk to KYTC representatives and ask questions about the study.

Written surveys will be available at the meeting to make it easier for the public to provide feedback directly to the project team. Surveys can be submitted by mail before Thursday, November 14 to the KYTC District 5 Office, 8310 Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40242. An online survey will be available following the public meeting.

Displays and materials will be available for review at the KYTC District 5 Office in Louisville beginning Friday, Oct. 25. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

All responses will become part of the official meeting record. Once compiled, the meeting record and supporting documentation will be made available for review and copying only after an Open Records Request has been received and approved. All Open Records Requests must be submitted to the Transportation Cabinet, Office of Legal Services, Transportation Office Building, 200 Metro St, Frankfort, KY 40622, or via kytc.openrecords@ky.gov.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone with a disability requiring assistance is asked to contact Morgan Woodrum at KYTC, no later than Thursday, Oct. 17. Please call (502) 764-0481, or mail your request to 8310 Westport Road, Louisville, KY 40242. Additionally, in compliance with Title VI, translation services are also offered upon request. 

* This meeting is not sponsored or endorsed by the Louisville Free Public Library.

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 events

October 5 - Schnitzelburg Fall Walk 

The Schnitzelburg Fall Walk brings together several exciting events happening along Hickory Street, including the Schnitzelburg Street Fest at Monnik, Oktoberfest at the All Wool and a Yard Wide Democratic Club, and festivities at The Merryweather. There’s a different vibe at every establishment.

The Flea Off Market will kick things off at 11 a.m. with vendors set up at Emerson Park and down Hickory Street from Forrest Street to Burnett Avenue. 

The bars along Hickory Street will continue the party at 4 p.m. with food, live music, and more throughout the evening. 

October 12 and 13 - Friends of the Louisville Free Public Library Moving Sale

Celebrate on The Belle of Louisville - 110 years on the river!

On October 18, 1914, a boat called the Idlewild launched from the James Rees and Sons shipyard in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. No one had any idea that, 11 decades later, she would still be cruising. The Belle has seen a lot in her time, including two World Wars, two pandemics, 19 Presidents… and millions of passengers. Since she became the Belle in 1963, over 12 million guests have made memories on our Legendary Lady.

Step aboard and back in time with a very special birthday event! Passengers will experience the adventure and intrigue of the steamboat era  with a one-of-a-kind immersive event. Gamblers, Rogues and Ne’er-Do-Wells is taking place on Saturday, October 12 from 7 to 10 p.m. 

October 13 | Belle Birthday #SundayFunday Cruise

Join us for a special-edition #SundayFunday all about the Belle’s 110th! Wish us a happy birthday onboard as you sip afternoon cocktails and enjoy the river breeze.

“Dream Within A Dream: A Journey with Edgar Allan Poe” explores a number of works of the 19th century poet and author during a two-hour excursion onboard the Belle of Louisville. Come experience Poe’s haunting tales performed in the round aboard the Belle on a five-night series of evening cruises, October 16 to 20, from 8 to 10 p.m. 

Through November 2 - Jack O'Lantern Spectacular at Iroquois Park

The event draws tens of thousands of guests nationwide for this one-of-a-kind immersive pumpkin experience.

It's time for the Parks Alliance of Louisville's largest fundraiser! Jack O’Lantern Spectacular, presented by Thorntons! An annual tradition for Louisvillians and visitors alike, last year’s event welcomed more than 110,000 visitors, the majority from outside of Louisville, contributing to more than $2.9 million in economic impact and more than 7,000 hotel room nights.

Jack O’Lantern Spectacular is celebrating its 12th year through November 2 at Iroquois Park. This year’s theme is “Trivia Night: Pumpkin Edition,” and will test guests' knowledge as they meander through the woods, lined with thousands of artistically carved and locally sourced pumpkins. Guests will be quizzed on art history, music, folklore, and more. They can challenge their friends and family while experiencing the magic that is Jack O’Lantern Spectacular.

Sensory Night – Presented by PNC Bank will be held on Monday, October 21, with gates opening early at 6 p.m. During this special sensory-friendly hour, pumpkins will light up the woods but there will be low music and no special effects. Designed for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), sensory processing differences, and their families.

October 1 - "Once Upon An Orchestra” returns to Louisville libraries, providing free musical storytelling performances for families

The Louisville Free Public Library and the Louisville Orchestra are again bringing “Once Upon An Orchestra” public performances to all LFPL locations through March. 

Presented free, each branch will host one of six different, unique family programs that weave music and storytelling together in an interactive experience. Louisville Orchestra musicians perform original music created around familiar and beloved children’s books. The hour-long experiences include a 30-minute small ensemble performance preceded by a hands-on activity to build a musical instrument from recycled materials, so everyone can play along.

For “Once Upon An Orchestra,” composers from the LO Creators Corps have developed original musical scores to accompany a number of beloved children’s books, including Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar. In addition, this year’s series features two new compositions – Laura Numeroff’s If You Give a Mouse a Cookie and Bear Snores On by Karma Wilson.

“Once Upon An Orchestra” is funded with support from Louisville Metro Government. For more information, contact your local LFPL branch, or call the Louisville Orchestra at 587-8681.

Once Upon an Orchestra

• Wednesday, October 9, 10:30 a.m., Middletown Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Thursday, October 10, 10:15 a.m., Highlands-Shelby Park Library, Bear Snores On
• Wednesday, November 6, 6 p.m., Main Library, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
• Thursday, November 7, 6:30 p.m. Northeast Regional Library, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
• Thursday, November 21, noon, Shively Library, Llama Destroys the World
• Saturday, November 23, 11 a.m., Newburg Library, Llama Destroys the World
• Wednesday, December 11, 10:30 a.m., Fairdale Library, Bunny's Book Club
• Thursday, December 12, 10:30 a.m., Bon Air  Library, Bunny's Book Club
• Saturday, January 11, 10:30 a.m., Iroquois Library, Bear Snores On
• Saturday, February 8, 2 p.m., St. Matthews Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Saturday, February 15, 2 p.m., South Central Regional Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Thursday, February 20, 6 p.m., Shawnee Library,, Llama Destroys the World
• Wednesday, March 19, 11 a.m., Southwest Regional Library, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
• Tuesday, March 25, 10:30 a.m., Crescent Hill Library, The Very Hungry Caterpillar
• Saturday, March 29, 10:30 a.m., Jeffersontown Library,  Bunny's Book Club

City-wide Anti-Racism Challenge 

As we go into this election season, unity for our country and community is foremost in our minds. To move our country forward, we must keep working to achieve equity for all. This requires ongoing engagement with issues of justice. That’s what the recurring Anti-Racism Challenge is all about: staying aware of the racism that still plagues us and proactively working to change it.  We want this city-wide Challenge to reach every corner of Louisville.

The ARC is sponsored by listenlearnact.org, Metro’s Office of Equity, and the Earth and Spirit Center and begins October 4. Sign up for the Anti-Racism Challenge.   

October 5 - Southwest Regional Library is turning ten and you are invited!

Germantown Oktoberfest postponed to October 11

Germantown Oktoberfest 2024 has been postponed to October 11 due to the rainy forecast. The celebration will still be on Goss Avenue with music, vendors, stein hoisting contest, weiner dog races, and more. 

October 12 - Urban Bourbon Half Marathon

Street closures from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Main Street from 7th Street to Preston Street
• Preston Street from Main Street to East Witherspoon Street
• East Witherspoon Street from Bingham Way to Adams Street
• Adams Street from East Witherspoon Street to North Spring Street
• Spring Street from Story Avenue to Lexington Road
• Payne Street from Spring Street to Baxter Avenue
• Baxter Avenue from Payne Street to Cherokee Road
• Cherokee Road from Baxter Avenue to Grinstead Drive
• Grinstead Drive from Cherokee Road to Cherokee Parkway
• Cherokee Parkway from Cherokee Road to Willow Avenue
• Willow Avenue from Cherokee Parkway to Alexander Road
• Alexander Road from Willow Avenue to Scenic Loop
• Scenic Loop from Alexander Road to Park Boundary Road
• Park Boundary Road from Scenic Loop to Beargrass Road
• Beargrass Road from Park Boundary Road to Scenic Loop
• Scenic Loop from Beargrass Road to Lexington Road
• Lexington Road from Scenic Loop to Spring Street
• Bingham Way from Witherspoon Street to River Road
• West River Road from Bingham Way to 4th Street
• 4th Street from West River Road to West Liberty Street

No parking areas, 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

• Main Street from 7th Street to Preston Street
• Preston Street from Main Street to East Witherspoon Street
• East Witherspoon Street from Bingham Way to Adams Street
• Adams Street from East Witherspoon Street to North Spring Street
• Spring Street from Story Avenue to Lexington Road
• Payne Street from Spring Street to Baxter Avenue
• Baxter Avenue from Payne Street to Cherokee Road
• Cherokee Road from Baxter Avenue to Grinstead Drive
• Grinstead Drive from Cherokee Road to Cherokee Parkway
• Cherokee Parkway from Cherokee Road to Willow Avenue
• Willow Avenue from Cherokee Parkway to Alexander Road
• Alexander Road from Willow Avenue to Scenic Loop
• Scenic Loop from Alexander Road to Park Boundary Road
• Park Boundary Road from Scenic Loop to Beargrass Road
• Beargrass Road from Park Boundary Road to Scenic Loop
• Scenic Loop from Beargrass Road to Lexington Road
• Lexington Road from Scenic Loop to Spring Street
• Bingham Way from Witherspoon Street to River Road
• West River Road from Bingham Way to 4th Street
• 4th Street from West River Road to West Liberty Street

October 17 - Final Music in the Park of the season at Iroquois Park

The final Music in the Park is October 17 at Iroquois Park, 2120 Rundill Road, with South Louisville Community Center as bad weather location.

Music in the Park is an event designed for folks ages 55 and older, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and include live music, lunch, health vendors, and ice cream for ages 55 and up. Complimentary lunch while supplies last. Don't forget your lawn chair, seating is limited. Call 398-4490 for more information. 

October 19 is Brightside Fall Community Cleanup

Brightside Fall Community Cleanup is set for October 19.  Held in the spring and fall, the events are a great service opportunity for boy/girl scouts, sports teams, faith groups and community organizations. It could also be a corporate team bonding opportunity!  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 their goals of a cleaner, greener Louisville. Register online.

October 19 - Pop-Up Drop-Off at UofL Shelby Campus 

Our next Pop-Up Drop-Off event will be Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at UofL's Shelby Campus. Please follow the guidelines. 

CycLOUvia Returns to the Highlands on Sunday, October 20

CycLOUvia is back Sunday, October 20! This time Bardstown Road will be closed off to make room for cyclists, skaters, walkers, and dancers. The Tom Owen CycLOUvia event of 2024 will be held on Sunday, October 20, from 2 to 6 p.m. on Bardstown Road from Grinstead Drive to Douglass Loop. Mark your calendars and join us for this family friendly event! Streets account for a massive amount of public land in all cities. CycLOUvia repurposes these public spaces by temporarily replacing traditional vehicular traffic with pedestrian traffic. Streets become paved parks where people of all ages, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds can come to improve their mental, physical, and emotional health. In addition, CycLOUvia allows residents to enjoy our great local businesses along some of Louisville's most iconic corridors! Starting in 2012, CycLOUvia events have attracted tens of thousands of people to various neighborhoods across the city. For updates, follow CycLOUvia on Instagram Bardstown Road will be closed from Douglass Boulevard to Grinstead Drive from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday.  There will be no parking along Bardstown Road from Douglass Boulevard to Grinstead Drive from noon to 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

Louisville Metro news

Apply to be an Ambassador through the Louisville Metro Office for Women 

LMPD Citizens Police Academy begins in January, apply now

How to report a pothole

Residents have three ways to report a pothole: By calling Metro311, (502-574-5000) On social media using #502pothole On Public Works' website at gov/government/public-works/services/report-pothole-or-other-city-services-issue

Jefferson County Legal Help Center offering hours Tuesdays

Assistance

The Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens' newest edition of the OADC Resource Guide is available now. The updated resources guide connects aging and disabled citizens, along with their caregivers, to a variety of service providers, government agencies and non-profit organizations in the city of Louisville. View or print the updated resource guide.

Kentucky's Employee Child Care Assistance Partner Program

The Employee Child Care Assistance Partnership (ECCAP) helps employers meaningfully  contribute financial assistance directly to employee child care costs by matching their contribution up to 100 percent, potentially doubling the value of their employer-provided benefit. All funds from the employer and the state are paid directly to eligible child care providers. Various program restrictions apply. Learn more at the Kentucky Chamber's ECCAP resource page, Kentucky's ECCAP program page, or by email.

Help with prescription medication copays may be possible through the Kentucky Prescription Assistance Program. Call 1-800-633-8100, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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. 

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.

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

Mental health experts recommend connecting with others and talking about how you're feeling. Don’t isolate yourself. 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

Trauma-trained mental health specialists are available at all eight Louisville Neighborhood Place locations for immediate and free assistance for any Louisville resident dealing with violence or other trauma. Appointments and walk-ins are accepted. The city has also set up a trauma hotline that is free to call: 901-0100.

Contact Congressman Morgan McGarvey's office

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.

LMPD Public Review of Policy

From the Louisville Metro Police Department:
The LMPD is committed to engaging the public when revising our policies. The LMPD seeks feedback from the public. Below is the process the Department has implemented to ensure a deliberate and thoughtful process when revising policies.

Process

• Policies that have been revised each quarter will be posted for review and public comment.
• Changes that have been made to the previous policy will be highlighted.
• Comments will be reviewed and considered by appropriate personnel and leadership during the next policy review process.

Policy/Standard Operating Procedure updates: 

General Order #24-002 - March 2024 SOP Updates

Links to updates and online comment forms: 

https://www.louisville-police.org/882/LMPD-Public-Review-of-Policy

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.

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 application to Planning and Design Services

24-VARIANCE-0141, 4408 Petersburg Road, application for a variance to permit a deck to encroach two feet into the required five-foot setback.

24-CFR-0003, 4201 Illinois Avenue, Application for a Community Facility Review for a zoo expansion on 15.09 acres in the R5 zoning district. Kentucky Trails at the Zoo. 

October 21 - Public Hearing regarding 1568 Belmar Drive

A public hearing regarding 1568 Belmar Drive will be Monday, October 21 starting at 1 p.m. The case number is 24-CUP-0228, a Conditional Use Permit application for a non-owner occupied Short Term Rental on 0.4825 acres in the R5 zoning district. Scan the code above for more information. 

1225 Gardiner Lane:

• 24-CAT2-0033, 1225 Gardiner Lane, category 2B application for the construction of a gas station on 5.6159 acres in the M2 and OR1 zoning districts.
• 24-WAIVER-0130, 1225 Gardiner Lane, A waiver application from section 5.6.1.C.1. to have less than 50% of the street facing facade without clear windows and doors.
• 24-WAIVER-0131, 1225 Gardiner Lane, a landscape waiver from section 10.2.4.B.1 to encroach into the landscape buffer area in the northwest corner of Poplar Level Road. 
• 24-PARKWAIVER-0013, 1225 Gardiner Lane, a parking waiver to increase the maximum parking allowed from 24 spaces to 32 spaces.

24-CUP-0063, 6500 Six Mile Lane, a Conditional Use Permit to construct a gym and building addition for a private institutional use on 7.1 acres in the R4 zoning district. NUR Islamic School.

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.

24-LANDSCAPE-0136, 1300 Eastern Parkway, a landscape plan to remove existing garage/shed and replace with a new one on 0.3916 acres in the R5A zoning district.

24-LANDSCAPE-0124, 3417 Community Horizon Circle, Landscape Plan for DaySpring's additional parking expansion.

23-MPLAT-0165, 2221 Bradford Drive, revised submittal for a minor plat to dedicate right of way on 5.46 acres in the R6 zoning district.

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.  

2988 Newburg Road

24-CUP-0154, 2988 Newburg Road, revised submittal of an application for a Conditional Use Permit for a private school expansion on 7.01 acres in the R5 zoning district. Louisville Adventist Academy. 

24-VARIANCE-0118, 2988 Newburg Road, application for a variance from table 5.4.3 to allow a maximum building setback of approximately 550 feet from Schuff Lane. Louisville Adventist Academy. 

24-VARIANCE-0119, 2988 Newburg Road, application for a variance from table 5.3.2 to allow a building setback of 20 feet from an adjacent residential use. Louisville Adventist Academy. 

24-ZONE-0080, 1300 Belmar Drive, application for a Change in Zoning from M2 to CM/M2 to permit auto sales on 0.2798 acres. Dean's Classic Auto Sales.

24-ZONE-0038, 6400 Six Mile Lane, a Change in Zoning from R-5 Single Family to R-7 Multifamily
with a Detailed District Development Plan with Binding Elements.

Short Term Rental cases

LIC-STA-24-00735, 3018 Louisa Avenue, Waiver of 115.516 (D) (1) of Metro Code of Ordinances to allow the registration of a Short Term Rental within 12 months of being issued a citation. 

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-CUP-0149, 1628 Belmar Drive, a Conditional Use Permit for a Short Term Rental on 0.1357 acres in the R-5 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.

Check on Planning and Design Services cases.

 Locate legal Short Term Rentals with 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. 

An easy way to find out where Louisville Water is working

Is Louisville Water working in your area? Our website offers an easy way to find out. An interactive map shows not only construction locations but also details on the projects, including the status, type, and even the project manager's phone number. While the map shows all planned projects, please note that it currently does not display repairs on water main breaks.

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.

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. 

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.

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

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

Are you interested in volunteering?  Louisville Metro Government has more than 70 boards and commissions - everything from the board of the Louisville Water Company to Metro Parks to the Louisville Planning Commission. We are always in search of citizens willing to serve on boards. Most boards are voluntary-based and are not paid but the reward of serving pays big dividends to our community.

To complete an application, please visit   https://louisvilleky.gov/government/mayor-craig-greenberg/interested-serving-board-or-commission

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: sara.feltner@louisvilleky.gov 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@louisvilleky.gov with "REMOVE" in the subject line.

Please note that you may need to copy and paste the above email address into your email service provider. We apologize for the inconvenience.