Louisville Metro has experienced back-to-back winter weather events and the Snow Team has been working continuously to respond, recover, and prepare for what comes next. In total, the Snow Team has now responded to nine winter weather events this season. 

During the major winter storm the weekend of Jan. 24 – 25, followed by additional snowfall more recently, the city responded with more plows, more brine, and more salt than ever before. Snow Team members worked around the clock in extended shifts to pretreat roads, salt and plow snow routes, address refreezing concerns, and continue cleanup well after snowfall ended. Their efforts helped move Louisville’s major roadways from snow-covered to passable in a relatively short window, even under extremely cold conditions.

Focus on snow routes and essential access

As always, the Snow Team’s primary responsibility is maintaining the city’s 111 dedicated snow routes, which cover approximately 2,750 miles of roadway. These routes include major arterials and collector roads that connect residents to hospitals, schools, emergency services, large employment centers, and other critical destinations.

During the recent major winter storm, with contractor support, our road crews were able to clear more miles of roadways than any other time in city history – addressing select streets outside of the dedicated snow route network. That work focused on roads that support access to schools, medical facilities, major employment centers, transportation hubs, and other essential services. This expanded response was an exception driven by the scale and impact of that storm.

Why not every local road is treated or plowed

Louisville Metro’s Snow Team treats and plows 2,750 miles of roadway, which represents only a portion of all roadways across the community. Many additional miles of local streets, private roads, and roads maintained by other jurisdictions are not part of Metro’s snow route network.

Given the size of the roadway network and the resources available, the Snow Team is not able to treat and plow every road during a winter storm. Instead, the team prioritizes designated snow routes that keep the city functioning, focusing on safety, emergency response, and access to essential destinations. This approach is common in cities of similar size and allows crews to have the greatest impact during severe winter weather events.

We understand that it can be frustrating when local streets are not treated or plowed, and we appreciate residents’ patience and understanding as crews work through prioritized routes.

Looking ahead

Following the most recent snowfall, Snow Team members continue monitoring conditions, treating slick spots, and preparing for potential additional winter weather. Preparation, coordination, and flexibility remain key as the season continues.

We extend our sincere thanks to the more than 200 Snow Team members from across Metro Government, including equipment operators, mechanics, dispatchers, communications staff, and support teams, who have worked long hours through these events. We also appreciate residents who stayed off the roads when possible, allowing crews to work more efficiently and safely.

For ongoing updates, residents are encouraged to visit louisvilleky.gov/snow and follow Snow Team updates on social media.

Recent winter weather brought significant snowfall to our area, forcing the temporary closure of all unstaffed recycling drop‑off locations. While crews worked to clear access points, unexpected equipment issues added an additional delay to reopening.

We know how important these sites are to residents who rely on them for convenient recycling options. Our team has been working diligently to resolve the equipment problems and ensure each location is safe, accessible, and fully operational.

We truly appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding during this disruption. All unstaffed drop‑off locations are scheduled to reopen for public use on Friday, February 6. Thank you for your continued commitment to responsible recycling and for bearing with us as we navigated these challenges! 

Use our online map to find a location near you. To help keep the drop-off sites running smoothly and ensure materials are properly recycled, please keep these guidelines in mind:

Recycle only accepted materials

• Paper: newspapers, magazines, mail, paper cups, flattened cardboard
• Cartons: empty food and beverage cartons
• Plastic: empty kitchen, laundry, and bath bottles and containers
• Glass: empty bottles and jars
• Metal: empty cans, foil pans, and foil wrap

Prepare your materials before you arrive

• Remove all packaging materials from cardboard boxes ahead of time. Items like Styrofoam inserts and plastic bags or wrap are not accepted and should never be left inside boxes or placed in the recycling dumpsters.
• Flatten, fold, or cut cardboard boxes before arriving. Large, intact boxes take up unnecessary space and fill the dumpsters more quickly.
• Do not bring plastic bags or plastic film. These materials should only be recycled at participating retail stores.

Stay safe at the site

• If a collection truck is present and emptying the dumpsters, please stand clear. For your safety, do not attempt to drop off materials while the truck is operating.

Even if you have curbside recycling at home, the drop-off locations can be a great option when you have more recyclables than usual. Your cooperation helps keep these sites clean, efficient, and accessible for everyone.  

If you’ve ever stood over your recycling cart wondering “Does this actually help?” or hesitated with an item in your hand thinking “Is this recyclable… or wishful thinking?”—you’re definitely not alone. Recycling can feel confusing and complicated.

That’s why kNOw Waste Louisville is hosting a friendly, informative Recycling Q&A session on February 22 at the Iroquois Library. This is your chance to bring all those lingering questions — big, small, or oddly specific — and get clear, practical answers from people who work directly in waste reduction and recycling education.

What to expect

• A relaxed, judgment‑free conversation about what actually belongs in your recycling bin
• Insight into where Louisville’s recycling goes and how the process works
• Tips to avoid common recycling mistakes
• Space to ask anything you’ve always wondered about waste, sorting, or sustainability

Whether you’re a seasoned recycler or just getting started, you’ll walk away feeling more confident, informed, and empowered to make a real difference in reducing waste in our community.

Event details

📅 Date: Sunday, February 22
📍 Location: Iroquois Library, 601 W Woodlawn Ave
🕒 Time: 2 - 3 p.m.

Registration

The event is free, but registration helps us plan for the right number of attendees. 

Recycling doesn’t have to be confusing — and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Join us, get your questions answered, and become part of Louisville’s growing effort to kNOw Waste and recycle smarter.

Throo the Zoo registration is open now and offers a solid fitness goal

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (January 15, 2026) – Today, Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Zoo are excited to announce that Throo the Zoo registration is now open. This most unique 5K is a great way to kick off 2026 with a goal you can run toward.

“I’m excited for our community to come together for another year of Throo the Zoo,” said Mayor Greenberg. “This beloved tradition is one that every member of the family can enjoy whether you are running, walking, or strolling past your favorite animals while supporting our world-class zoo.”

Louisville’s wildest 5K takes place at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 9. The annual event is a one-of-a-kind experience, allowing participants to run or walk through the Zoo while supporting its mission to “better the bond between people and our planet.”

The Throo the Zoo 5k Run/Walk takes participants on a chip-timed course that winds through the Zoo’s exhibits, offering views of some animals including bears, giraffes and sloths. The event welcomes runners and walkers of all fitness levels, including guests with strollers.

To register/secure your spot for this important Zoo fundraiser, go to louisvillezoo.org/throo.

Registration fee timetable:

Through February 28: $35.

March 1 – 31: $40.

April 1 – May 8: $45

Race-day registration on May 9 will cost $55.

Registration includes a t-shirt with an option to upgrade to a tech shirt for an additional fee, commemorative finishers medals, post-race refreshments and a ticket to return to the Zoo for a future visit.

For those unable to attend in person or who prefer to complete the distance at another location, the Zoo offers a Throo the Zoo Virtual 5K. Virtual participants can run or walk the 5K on their time and course, and they will receive a finisher’s medal and a Zoo ticket for a future visit.

Pricing for the virtual option starts at $25 through February 28.

Virtual 5K timetable:

March 1 – March 31: $30

April 1 – May 9: $35

Zoo Hours

The Zoo is open daily year-round. Now through March 20, 2026, hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guests exiting by 5 p.m. The Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.

February 10th, 2026 Networking 11:00am Lunch Served at 11:30am Meeting 12:00-1:00pm

Our Mother of Sorrows Cafeteria

770 Eastern Parkway Louisville, Ky 40217

Lunch Sponsored by: Oak Street Health

RSVP REQUIRED:

Please call the Office for Aging & Disabled Citizens 502-574-5092 or by email to allison.woosley@louisvilleky.gov

Parking is available in the enclosed lot next to the cafeteria or in the lot to the right of school. Street parking is allowed.

📅 Wednesday, February 11 

⏰ 5:00 – 8:00 PM 

 📍 150 S. State Street Louisville, KY 40206 

💲 $5 Donation Admission 

Proceeds support UCHM programs 

 All skill levels are welcome! Bring a friend and enjoy a fun night of Mahjong. 

On February16^th at 9:00am the 5^th Division will be hosting our first quarterly community meeting at the Gilda’s Club of Louisville, 2440 Grinstead Dr.  I am asking for your assistance at advertising this community meeting.  The meeting is open to many topics that the residents may have concerns over.  While there I will provide updates on crime numbers and activities LMPD is conducting within the 5th Division.  We will attempt to answer all questions the best we can and truly want to hear the communities’ concerns and needs. These quarterly meeting are part of the community commitment that was agreed upon by the community and metro government.  This is the first time we are conducting this meeting and currently we are planning on it lasting an hour.  If you all would like to attend I more than welcome you to join.

The Book Works open house at Shelby Park Community Center has been moved to February 20 from 3:00–6:00 p.m. Discover exciting new programs for youth and families, enjoy refreshments, participate in a community art project, and take home free books! Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and learn more about The Book Works.

Join us for the Inaugural Black History Gala, an elegant black-tie evening designed to intentionally close out Black History Month with reflection, celebration, and legacy. Hosted at Roots 101, this unforgettable experience will feature a red carpet arrival, special guests, and a powerful celebration honoring Black history — past, present, and future.

Community members are invited to gather, reflect, and celebrate the legacy being built today in a space rooted in culture, excellence, and connection.

🎟 Tickets are available at: www.RegMorganDesigns.com

📅 February 28, 2026

📍 Roots 101 Museum

Harbor House is proud to kick off our Annual Ken-Ducky Derby season with our signature Feathers and Friends Gala—a celebration that directly supports our mission of serving children, adults with disabilities, and seniors through inclusive, community-based programs. Every dollar raised helps Harbor House provide life-enriching care, meaningful opportunities, and lifelong support for individuals and families across our community.

This year’s event will be hosted at Harbor House, 2233 Lower Hunters Trace, Louisville, KY 40216, and promises to be a night to remember. Guests will enjoy an immersive evening filled with Ducks & Diamonds, a speakeasy atmosphere, cigars, bourbon tastings, great music, and even better company. With a silent auction and a unique experience in every room, this unforgettable night sets the tone for a season of impact.

Get your tickets today: www.one.pidpal.net/feathersandfriends2026

Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious viral illness known for its itchy and sometimes painful rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and often begins with symptoms like fever, fatigue, and headache. Within a few days, a rash appears that begins as red spots, then develops into fluid-filled blisters which eventually burst and scab over. Chickenpox is often mild in young children, but it can lead to serious illness in adolescents, adults, newborns, pregnant people, and people with compromised immune systems.

Chickenpox spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and also through direct contact with the rash. People with chickenpox can spread the virus 1–2 days before the rash appears and remain contagious until all blisters have fully scabbed over. This makes rapid transmission more likely in homes, schools, and other close-contact settings and underscores the importance of adequate community vaccine coverage.

Before the varicella vaccine was widely administered, chickenpox was extremely common in the United States. An estimated 4 million people were infected each year, resulting in up to 13,500 hospitalizations and as many as 150 deaths. Since widespread vaccination began, chickenpox cases have declined by more than 97% nationwide, and serious complications are far less common. Despite this progress, Louisville has seen an uptick in chickenpox cases since the COVID-19 pandemic. More than 30 total cases were reported in 2023 and 2024, mostly among people who were unvaccinated, compared to less than 30 total cases reported in the previous four years. This trend highlights how quickly vaccine-preventable diseases can resurge when routine immunizations are delayed or missed.

The varicella vaccine is recommended as a two-dose series for children, normally given at 12–15 months of age and again at 4–6 years. Adolescents and adults who have never had chickenpox or did not complete the vaccine series are also recommended to get vaccinated. Infection with chickenpox after vaccination is possible, but it’s very rare and cases are much milder with fewer lesions and lower risk of complications.

Treatment for chickenpox focuses on managing symptoms such as itching and fever. Antiviral medications may be recommended for people at higher risk for severe disease or complications. Because chickenpox is so contagious, anyone diagnosed should stay home and avoid close contact with others until all blisters have scabbed over.

While chickenpox is far less common today than it was a generation ago, it has not disappeared. Increases in cases remind us that vaccine-preventable diseases can resurface when routine immunizations are delayed or missed. Ensuring that people of all ages are up to date on the varicella vaccine helps prevent outbreaks, reduces complications, and protects those who can’t be vaccinated. By prioritizing routine immunizations, we keep our community safe and healthy.

The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) is responsible for ensuring the health and safety of the community and individuals within it. Part of this responsibility includes investigating cases of contagious diseases which may pose risks to individual and community health. When an individual tests positive for or has been exposed to one of more than 50 diseases designated as reportable by the Kentucky Department of Health, the staff at LMPHW must contact the individual and investigate the case and potential exposures to others in the community.

If you receive a call from LMPHW, it’s natural to have questions. These calls are an important part of protecting individual and community health—and understanding why we reach out can help put your mind at ease.

We may contact you for a variety of reasons, including:

• You tested positive for, or were exposed to, a contagious disease.
• We are conducting contact tracing to break the chain of transmission and help prevent further spread of the disease
• You recently traveled to an area with a health advisory. Health advisories are issued by public health agencies to provide urgent information about immediate or potential health threats to the public and health professionals. The goal of a health advisory is to tell people of the actions they need to take to protect their health and reduce exposure to risks of illness.
• We want to make sure you have important information and are getting the care you need.  We can also connect you to supportive services.

Our goal is always prevention, education, and support.

How do I know the call is legitimate?

Calls from LMPHW come from official Louisville Metro Government phone numbers, which typically begin with 502-574-XXXX. If you’re unsure, you can hang up and call the official number listed on the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness website to confirm (502-574-6520).

What information might we ask you for?

During a public health investigation, we may ask questions to better understand your exposure to a contagious disease and how to reduce the risk of spreading it. This can include:

• Basic patient information (name, date of birth, address)
• Signs and symptoms
• Vaccine history
• Recent travel
• Close contacts
• Pre-existing medical conditions

We will NOT ask you for your social security number, citizenship status or any financial or credit card information or money.

Is my information shared with government entities?

Healthcare providers and public health agencies are legally required to report certain information to the state health department to ensure disease prevention and control. This reporting is focused on protecting public health—not enforcement. LMPHW as well as other public health agencies and healthcare providers are bound by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Why is it important that I respond?

Responding to the health department helps us:

• Prevent the spread of a contagious disease
• Protect public safety
• Connect individuals to care, testing, or resources
• Share accurate, timely health information with you and the community

Your participation plays a critical role in keeping not only you and your family safe but also our community.

How does my cooperation make a difference?

Your cooperation helps public health professionals make informed decisions related to:

• Early outbreak detection
• Contact tracing
• Quarantine and isolation guidance
• Vaccine education and outreach
• Targeted communication to specific communities and populations

Every response strengthens our ability to act quickly and effectively.

What if I don’t speak English?

We use Voiance Language Services, a secure interpretation service available 24/7 in more than 200 languages, ensuring clear and confidential communication for everyone we serve. We also have several qualified medical interpreters on our team.

Here is our adoptable pet of the week, Axel!

Eyes on the prize, paws on the pavement, and brains... somewhere in the bushes."

He’s clearly a "live fast, sniff hard" kind of guy who doesn't let things like kennel stress or fashionable cone pillows slow down his mission to see everything at once. Axel is 3yrs old, a totally lover boy with an adventurous side. We believe he is house trained too!

Meet Axel at Animal House today!

Visit Animal House today! 

3516 Newburg Rd, Louisville, KY

Open daily noon–6pm

Adoptable pets & more: linktree.com/yourcityshelter #yourcityshelter

ADOPTION EVENT!

We have an adoption event on Thursday, February  5^th 2pm-6pm at Oxmoor Center near Dick’s Sporting Goods

All adoption fees are covered by Friends of Metro Animal Services

DRIVE THRU MICROCHIP CLINIC

We have a drive thru microchip clinic on Sunday, February 15^th 1pm-3:30pm
“Drive-Thru Microchip Clinic means you get to stay in your warm car!

First 50 microchips are FREE! After 50, they will be $10 per pet.

Come through Sunday, February 15th 1pm-3:30pm.

Jefferson County residents only.

Drive Thru Microchip Clinic LMAS #YourCityShelter

Louisville Water has numerous projects either underway or planned for our Crescent Hill Treatment campus.

Reservoir Relining Project

Our project to reline the reservoir is progressing.  The walkway around the reservoir remains closed and Reservoir Avenue will remain closed on weekdays between Frankfort Avenue and Mary T. Meagher Aquatic Center to all the work to continue safely and smoothly. Reservoir Avenue will reopen at the close of business every Friday and stay open until Monday morning.  Access to Mary T. Aquatic Center will always remain open.

Residual Line Project at Crescent Hill

Louisville Water is constructing a new residual line to remove treatment residual from the plant.  This line will connect with the recently constructed residual line we installed in Zorn Avenue and River Road.  Currently, our contractor is working on our property that is adjacent to the fountain.  In the coming weeks we will bore under Frankfort Avenue.  This work will not impact traffic on Frankfort Avenue.  After boring under the road, the line will run behind our basins parallel to Pennsylvania Avenue between and railroad tracks and Reservoir Avenue.  We are currently installing temporary fencing in this area.  The project is expected to last approximately 12 months.  When completed the temporary fencing will be removed and the area will be restored.

Crescent Hill PAC System

Louisville Water will begin a project at the Crescent Hill Treatment plant starting as early as the week of February 9.  The work will involve upgrading the existing powder activated carbon (PAC) system and construction of silos for additional PAC storage. PAC is critical to our treatment process, and this upgrade will allow us to improve water quality and continue to meet new drinking water standards.  Construction is expected to last approximately 18 months.

To safely access the site, it is necessary to construct a temporary access road between Pennsylvania Avenue and the construction site.  Residents should expect normal construction activity and noise during the project. It will also be necessary to close the sidewalk between Pennsylvania and Reservoir Avenues.  After completion of the project the access road will be removed, and the sidewalk will be restored and open.

Over the next few days, an MSD contractor will be investigating the stormwater drainage line on N. Galt Avenue. They will be able to access that line through the same hole they have already dug, which is currently plated on the road. During their work, traffic will once again go down to one lane near the railroad tracks, close to where N. Galt meets Frankfort Ave.

Will keep you all posted on further updates. And let us know if you all have any questions. 

As temperatures drop, the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation is pausing paving operations for the winter season. Cold weather and moisture prevent asphalt from bonding and curing correctly, which can lead to weak pavement and shorter roadway life.

By waiting for warmer, more stable conditions -- our crews can ensure that new pavement is durable, long-lasting, and safe for everyone who travels our streets.

We appreciate the community’s patience and look forward to resuming paving work as soon as weather conditions allow. PAVING

Four snow events this season, repeated freezing and thawing, and winter road treatments have taken a toll on Louisville Metro streets. These harsh conditions weaken pavement and lead to potholes.

In 2025 alone, Louisville Metro's Department of Transportation has filled more than 48,860 potholes. 

Reporting potholes helps crews respond more quickly, keeping roads safer and smoother for everyone throughout the winter months.

You can report potholes by:

• Filling out the online form at LouisvilleKY.gov
• Using X (previously Twitter) by sending the location to @LouMetro311 and including #502pothole
• Calling Metro311 or 502-574-5000 to report potholes or other service issues

Solid Waste Management Services will pause yard waste collection beginning the week of January 19. Regular curbside pickup will resume the week of March 23.

During this temporary suspension, all Jefferson County residents may bring their bundled yard waste to the Waste Reduction Center, located at 636 Meriwether Ave., where it can be dropped off free of charge. 

This seasonal adjustment allows the Solid Waste team to use time and resources more efficiently while significantly less yard waste is generated during the winter months.

Key details

• Collection paused: Week of January 19
• Collection resumes: Week of March 23
• Free drop-off location: Waste Reduction Center, 636 Meriwether Ave. 

Solid Waste Management Services appreciates the community's cooperation and commitment to keeping our city clean and sustainable

Serve the Louisville community through a rewarding public service career! The department of Louisville Metro Public Works is currently hiring.

IMPORTANT! The link below is for all of Metro jobs currently open. To learn about career opportunities specifically in Public Works, once you've clicked the link, follow these three easy steps:

1. Click the filter tab
2. Click "Departments"
3. Click "Public Works" on the dropdown menu

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

Notice of VAPStat Joint Meeting Involving the Louisville Landbank

The Louisville and Jefferson County Landbank Authority, Inc. will hold it's regular meeting on Monday, February 09, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

The VAPStat Joint Meeting is open to the public and those interested in participating can attend the meeting in the Auditorium of the Old Jail Building, 514 W Liberty Street or remotely, pursuant to KRS 61.826.

The public may access and participate in the meeting virtually by joining the Webex video teleconference, using the instructions provided below.

Questions can be submitted using the Q&A chat box at the bottom left-hand corner of the event.

The public can also view the meeting live on the Cabinet for Economic Development’s Facebook page.

The Agenda for the Monday, February 09, 2026, VAPStat Joint Meeting at 3:00 PM is available on the Louisville Metro Government Agenda & Meeting Portal website by clicking the link below:

02.09.2026 VAPStat Joint Meeting Agenda - FINAL.pdf