 This year, I always find myself saying, "We just have to get through Derby...then budget...then Dainty..." There's always a hump to get over and a zillion things going on, but—golly—we're getting a lot done! I hope springtime has been treating you just fine and you find yourself sashaying into summer soon.
If you were in town during Derby, you probably heard what I heard resoundingly this year: "The vibes were off." I could write a dissertation on why I think that is, although you won't need my ramblings to know that Derby just isn't for us anymore. And by us, I mean you, me, neighbors around the track, neighbors all over the city, Louisvillians. The vibe shift isn't just directed toward Churchill Downs, what happens at the track, and all the folks flying in on their private jets to guzzle our juleps and leave (although that takes the bulk of it). It's also directed at the Kentucky Derby Festival. Are they just going through the motions? Where's the fun? Where's the culture? Where's the flavor? And, let me tell you, flavor is not in a $20 corndog at the "Fest-a-Ville." Bring back calling it the Chow Wagon. Bring back real grand marshals in the Pegasus Parade. Bring back the Central party. Bring back Broadway cruising. Bring back...well, I'll stop there before I go too far. 😁 (BTW, what happened to Sherby?)
If you came to "Derby Our Way," thank you! We had a packed house! Thanks to The Streatery for hosting, and Churchill Downs for buy everyone dinner. I know the traffic plans can be frustrating (and we'll continue to chip away at those), but good things have come out of those meetings, like a post-Derby clean-up. I also want to thank Streets for People for making a map of the road closures. It's always hard to visualize the list of closures LMPD sends out, so I'm grateful that S4P stepped up when we asked.
Let's shift to the budget. It's a very capital-heavy budget. Despite the fact that there is no direct funding for District 15, this budget does not support my priorities for our city. It lacks investment in our public spaces, sustainability, infrastructure, and basic city services. While I’m very excited about projects like a new Belvedere, I’ve never heard a constituent asking me fund it. Instead, I hear from people asking why it takes months of waiting on a list to get a trashcan repaired or replaced. I’m asked why the city doesn’t adequately fund traffic calming or why we provide zero funding for speed humps. I’m asked how people will be able to get around when TARC routes are greatly reduced later this year. I’m asked how we can better target illegal dumping. I’m asked how we can support small businesses struggling because of things like the 65 closures and Derby. I don’t see any of these things addressed in this budget.
Now, here are some other tid-bits that you might be interested in:
- On Monday, my office is refiling a moratorium on data centers. The recommendations are far overdue and I can't help but feel like there's a motive behind that...
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Our livestock ordinance passed unanimously in the Public Safety Committee! The ordinance is a big win for urban livestock owners, and undoes changes that were made last October when a microchipping ordinance passed.
- Our office had 20 free air conditioner distributed to folks who needed them over the last couple of weeks. Thanks to the Office of Social Services and Councilor Ruhe for organizing.
- There's a new flag at the Manslick/Hazelwood intersection. Thanks to Tommy Wheatley with Woodmen of the World for replacing the flag for us!
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ELECTION DAY IS TUESDAY, MAY 19. Head over to the County Clerk's website for information on where you can vote early and who will be on your ballot.
- It was announced that Louisville will the be home for the Team USA Olympic Trials in June 2028!
- Remember, 65 is going to be shut down in June and July from the Watterson to Downtown Louisville. The PR team for the project attended the last Public Works meeting. You can watch it here. More about the closure below.
- Mother's Day is on Sunday, so happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful mothers, guardians, and mom-like figures in our lives! I heard someone say recently that the world is made up of mothers and all their children. Whoa! So true! I want to give a very special shoutout to Carol Chappell, my incredible mom. I love you, mom! You're the best ever, mama llama!
Last, but not least, our dear, sweet Alena turned THIRTY on Derby Day! If you see her around, give her a birthday high-five! You can also wish Alena a happy birthday on BIG BOB Day on Saturday, May 30 in Wyandotte Park. (How cool is it that her birthday month is sandwiched between two huge parties?!)
See y'all around D15,
April highlights included Chill with Chappell in Wyandotte Park, a community clean-up in St. Joseph, groundbreaking for Kentucky Humane Society's new campus, a tour of the Main Library, Hazelwood New Growth Fest, The Tempest at Iroquois Park, Derby Our Way, Opening Day at Churchill Downs, a morning on the backside, and a whole lot of fun (maybe too much fun) hanging with neighbors outside of the track on Derby Day.
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On April 23, the Mayor released his proposed Executive and Detailed Budgets. Over the next few weeks, Metro Council will meet with 19 of Louisville's 44 departments to ask questions and adjust the budget.
Find all the budget documents and budget hearing schedule here.
Watch budget hearings online live on Spectrum Channel 184, with Roku, Apple TV, and Fire OTT Apps, or on the Louisville Metro Council Facebook page.
There will be one Community Budget Hearing on Wednesday, May 13, at 6:00 pm for people to voice their opinions about the city budget. You can sign-up to speak on May 13, between 5 and 6 pm at Metro Council Chambers, 601 W. Jefferson Street.
You can read check out my budget breakdown here.
The community members can submit comments online. The form will remain open until Thursday, June 6 at 6 pm.
I encourage everyone to read the proposed budget. With nearly 500 pages to comb through, I know it can be overwhelming and there’s a lot of information to digest. My office is always available for any questions.
The Council is expected to vote to adopt the FY 2026-2027 Budget during the regularly scheduled Metro Council meeting on Thursday, June 25, at 6 pm.
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If you live in Wyandotte-Oakdale, I hope you’ve heard about BOB by now! Over the past several weeks, our team has knocked on more than 1,500 doors and hosted community meet-ups throughout the neighborhood as part of this exciting initiative.
BOB is short for Building Our Blocks, and it's a program unique to District 15 that partners with Louisville Metro departments, local nonprofits, and neighborhood organizations to bring resources directly to residents while helping support resident-led ideas and improvements. Through this intensive six-month initiative, we’re working to make local government more proactive, connected, and responsive to the everyday needs of our neighborhoods.
Learn more about BOB here.
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Request FREE Services
Residents can request a wide range of free services and resources, including:
- Trees and rain barrels
- Smoke alarms
- Soil and radon testing
- Trash and recycling cart repair/replacement
- Pet resources
- Housing and repair assistance
- …and more!
If you haven’t already completed your BOB survey, there’s still time! Responses are due by May 20.
Sign up for services: https://bit.ly/BOBWyandotteOakdaleSurvey
We’d also love to see you at our upcoming park and neighborhood clean-up on May 9. Volunteers can meet at Wyandotte Park at 11 a.m. to pick up supplies and help us keep the neighborhood beautiful.
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BIG BOB DAY: GET INVOLVED!
We’re also gearing up for BIG BOB Day, our community celebration of everything that makes Wyandotte-Oakdale special and we want neighbors to help make it their own!
BIG BOB Day will feature a ton of stuff, including a resource fair, petting zoo, pickleball activities, a touch-a-firetruck experience, the chance to explore a TARC bus, a Louisville Metro Animal Services vaccine clinic, pet food giveaways, kids activities, and much more.
We’re currently looking for:
- Volunteers
- Community groups and nonprofits
- Food trucks
- Face painters, balloon animal makers, family-friendly entertainers—whatever!
- Interactive activities and neighborhood-focused programming
Our goal is to create a fun, welcoming event that reflects the energy and creativity of the community itself. If you have an idea, activity, or talent you’d like to share, we’d love to hear from you!
Together, we can make BIG BOB Day a celebration of connection, neighborhood pride, and community spirit.
If you live in Wyandotte-Oakdale, we want to work with you to help strengthen the community together.
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With Derby 152 in the rearview mirror, yet fresh in our minds, it's the perfect opportunity to share your thoughts on how Derby week went for you as neighbor of Churchill Downs. We want to hear the good, bad, and the ugly. Your honest feedback will help us improve for Derby 153!
Share your experience: https://tinyurl.com/2026-derby-detox
The Council-Directed Traffic Calming project on South 5th Street, between Longfield Avenue and Florence Avenue, is nearing completion.
Identified by District 15 as a high-priority area for traffic calming, the project reflects a collaborative effort between Councilwoman Jennifer Chappell and the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation (DOT) to improve roadway safety and enhance the streetscape for residents and visitors alike.
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One of the project’s most visible features is the installation of planted floating island curb extensions, commonly known as bumpouts. Our local contractor recently completed the landscaping using a variety of native plant species, including Aromatic Aster, Eastern Bluestar, Purple Coneflower, Bee Balm, and Blue-eyed Grass. |
These native plantings do more than beautify the corridor. They provide important habitat for pollinators, are resilient to local climate conditions, and help create a more welcoming, neighborhood-scale streetscape. The added greenery and visual narrowing effect of the bumpouts also support the project’s traffic-calming goals by encouraging slower vehicle speeds. Because the landscaping consists of perennial native plants, the areas will continue to grow and return year after year with less long-term maintenance.
Additional improvements include striped parking lanes separated by a 2-foot buffer to improve safety for people parking and walking, as well as upgrades to the existing mid-block pedestrian crossing frequently used by students traveling to and from Semple Elementary School.
The Louisville Metro DOT Council-Directed Traffic Calming Program supports neighborhood-driven projects aimed at reducing speeding, improving safety for people walking and biking, and creating more comfortable, people-centered streets through thoughtful design improvements.
As the final touches are completed, the South 5th Street corridor is already beginning to reflect the long-term vision of a safer and more vibrant neighborhood street.
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Team Kentucky is investing in a better Interstate 65 in Louisville by advancing critical infrastructure improvements along the corridor through a planned temporary closure that will allow contract crews to accelerate the replacement of three key bridges. Two public meetings are scheduled to make sure that people have the information they need to prepare for the two-month closure.
Tuesday, May 5
DuPont Manual High School
120 W. Lee Street
Tuesday, May 12
Spalding University, College Center
812 S. Second Street
Both meetings start at 5:30 and end at 7 p.m. with a presentation at 6 p.m. The meetings will include information on why the closure is needed, what to expect, how to prepare, and how to best get around during the temporary closure. The meetings are an open house format and will offer the opportunity for one-on-one conversations with members of the Project Team.
To park at Manual High School, enter from W. Cardinal Boulevard or Second Street and enter at Door 22. To park at Spalding University, enter from S. Second Street and enter through the main entrance at College Center.
Special Accommodations
With advance notice, KYTC can provide special accommodation for persons with disabilities and/or limited English-speaking ability and persons needing auxiliary aids or services such as interpreters, signers, readers or large print.
Should special accommodation be needed, please contact Berry Craig, public involvement specialist, at (270) 705-1640, or email berry.craig@parsons.com. |
Project Overview
Five miles of I-65 are scheduled to close between the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and downtown Louisville (Jefferson Street) by 12:01 a.m. on Monday, June 1. I-65 is expected to reopen to two lanes of traffic on Saturday, Aug. 1.
A two-mile section of southbound I-65 is expected to reopen to two lanes of traffic by Wednesday, July 1. It stretches from University Boulevard to the Watterson Expressway (I-264). Reopening this section of roadway will reopen four ramps: Crittenden Drive on and off ramps and the on ramps from Eastern Parkway and University Boulevard.
Three Key Bridges Being Replaced
The I-65 bridges over Kentucky Street/Brook Street, Hill Street/CSX Railroad/Burnett Avenue, and Bradley Avenue near the fairgrounds will be replaced. All three bridges were constructed in the late 1950’s as part of the original construction of the interstate. Accelerated work during the closure will save at least a year of additional restrictions and delays on I-65.
Crews will make significant progress during the closure, demolishing and rebuilding part of the new deck of each bridge. This will allow the bridges to reopen to two lanes of traffic in each direction when the closure ends in August. In addition to replacing the bridges, sidewalks will be reconstructed and improved, and modernized lighting will be installed under and adjacent to the new bridges.
Getting Around During the Closure
During the closure, through traffic will be detoured to I-264 (Georgia Davis Powers Expressway) on the west side of Louisville. The signed detour route is the shortest distance, utilizes roadways with the most available capacity, and creates the least traffic impacts.
The detour is the signed alternate interstate route taking through traffic around the closure to minimize impacts to local traffic. Local detours are not signed because of the many different beginning and end points. KYTC has a partnership with Waze providing the latest closure information to guide drivers along the most efficient route at the time of travel.
Traffic accessing downtown Louisville will use the Jefferson Street exit from southbound I-65. Traffic will also be able to access downtown Louisville via I-64. Traffic leaving downtown will use the ramp from East Liberty Street to access northbound I-65., and the I-64 ramps will also be an option for drivers (Third Street and Ninth Street ramps).
Staying Informed
Project information and updates can be found at I65CentralCorridor.com. While on the site, users can sign up to have project and traffic updates delivered to their inboxes or by text to their phones.
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D15 May Event Calendar
5/5: I-65 Central Corridor Improvement Project (5:30 pm; 120 W Lee St)
5/5: Taylor BerryNeighborhood Association (6 pm; 2911 Taylor Blvd)
5/5: Wilder Park Neighborhood Association meeting (6:30 pm; 120 Fairmont Ave)
5/6: Oakdale Neighborhood Association (6:00 pm; Center for Neighborhoods, 1126 Berry Blvd)
5/9: BOB Wyandotte Community Clean-Up (10 am; Wyandotte Park, 1104 Beecher St)
5/9: Schnitzelburg Spring Walk (11 am-midnight; Hickory St)
5/10: Mother’s Day
5/12: I-65 Central Corridor Improvement Project (5:30 pm; Spalding University, 901 S 4th St)
5/12: 4th Division Advisory board meeting (6:30 pm; Edison Building cafeteria; 701 W Ormsby Ave)
5/13: Meriwether-Fort Hill Neighborhood Association meeting (6:30 pm; 537 E Burnett Ave)
5/14: Metro Council Meeting (6 pm; 601 W. Jefferson St)
5/18: German-Paristown Neighborhood Association meeting (6 pm; at Hope Worsted Mills, 1000 Swan St)
5/18: Friends of Iroquois Park (6 pm; Iroquois Library, 601 W Woodlawn Ave)
5/19: Hazelwood Neighborhood Association Meeting (6 pm; South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Ave)
5/19: Lucky Horseshoe Neighborhood Association meeting (6 pm; 1017 Queen Ave)
5/21: Taylor Berry AVC Community Dinner (5 pm; N Street Baptist Church)
5/23: Hazelwood Neighborhood Cleanup (2 pm; Corner of Bicknell and Cayuga St)
5/24: Shakespeare in the Park- The Tempest at Emerson Park (6:30; 1100 Sylvia St)
5/25: Memorial Day
5/30: BIG BOB DAY (10 am; Wyandotte Park, 1104 Beecher St)
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Follow @councilwomanchappell
Stay up to date on everything D15 and see what's happening around the district and in the city.
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The gate to the North Overlook via Uppill Road in Iroquois Park will be open on May 9-10 from 10 am to 4 pm. April is a great time to see all the pink redbuds in bloom from the Overlook!
Here's the remaining 2026 schedule:
- May 9-10
- June 13-14
- July 11-12
- August 8-9
- September 12-13
- October 10-11
- November 14-15
Please remember to drive SLOWLY as the drive will still be shared with pedestrians, cyclists, and animals.
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The MUSCL Senior Center will be having a yard sale fundraiser on Saturday, May 9th at St. Elizabeth (1016 E. Burnett Ave) from 8 am to 3 pm.
Please come and support the Senior Center!
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 The Schnitzelburg Walk is a free, twice-a-year street festival held in Louisville’s Schnitzelburg neighborhood each spring and fall along Hickory Street. The event features live music, food trucks, adult beverages, and a flea market featuring a wide variety of local vendors.
The Schnitzelburg Spring Walk will be on Saturday, May 9 with the Flea Off Market starting at 11 am near Emerson Park. Music at the bars along Hickory Street will start at 4 pm. Participating bars include Monnik, The Merryweather, Check's Cafe, Old Hickory Inn, and All Wool & Yard Wide. Please check with each establishment for a schedule.
Everyone must be off the street by midnight!
The Louisville Regional Airport Authority (LRAA) is conducting an update to its Noise Compatibility Program (NCP) for the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in accordance with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 150. The voluntary Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 150 program sets guidelines for determining aircraft noise exposure and provides a process for developing NCP measures to address land uses which have been determined to be incompatible with noise from aircraft operations. The first phase of the Part 150 Program is known as the Noise Exposure Map (NEM). More information and the updated NEM can be found at: http://www.flylouisville.com/NCPUpdate
The public is invited to learn about and participate in the NCP Update process. LRAA is hosting a series of open-house-style public meetings throughout the course of the study. LRAA invites interested community members to the first open house on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at Fourth Presbyterian Church (3016 Preston Highway.). A short presentation summarizing the study process will take place at 4:30 p.m. People can review maps and other informational displays in an open house format and ask questions of the study team regarding the Part 150 process at the airport.
Written comments can be left for the study team at the open house or submitted to Bob Slattery at engineering@flylouisville.com or by U.S. Mail at the following address at any time during the course of the study, which is expected to conclude in late fall, 2026:
Bob Slattery
C/O LRAA Maintenance Facility
4320 Old Park Blvd
Louisville, KY 40209
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In partnership with Maryhurst Renewal, South Central Neighborhood Place will be hosting a Spanish language community listening session Thursday, May 14th at noon at 4255 Hazelwood Ave, Louisville, KY 40215.
The session will be facilitated by Carmen Mendivil (Maryhurst), and staff from JCPS Office of Multi-Lingual Learners will be in attendance.
A light lunch will be served.
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Join neighbors for a community cleanup on Saturday, May 16 at 9:30 am. Meet at (874 Clarks Ln, Louisville, KY 40217) to get supplies and refreshments. |
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The Friends of Iroquois Park will be meeting on Monday, May 18th at 6:00 pm in the basement meeting room at the Iroquois Library (601 W. Woodlawn Ave).
The group meets monthly to make sure that Iroquois Park remains an extraordinary park for our community. We welcome attendees to listen to updates, share ideas and discuss proposals. Everyone is welcome so feel free to bring your friends, family, and neighbors!
Please note this meeting will be taking place the third Monday of the month instead of the fourth due to Memorial Day.
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Join the Hazelwood Neighborhood Association for a Neighborhood Cleanup on May 23rd at 2 pm. Supplies will be provided, and participants will be meet at the corner or Bicknell and Cayuga.
For questions contact hazelwoodneighborhoodassn@gmail.com
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The South End Community Market will be back Saturdays opening day is May 24th and will run through October 25th. Patrons are invited to support local talented farmers, artisans, and bakers while also having the opportunity to connect to the community that supports our park. Please note this year's new hours of 8:30 am-12:30 pm.
For those interested in becoming a vendor you can find more information here- https://linktr.ee/southendcommunitymarket
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Schnitzelbrat, was started by neighbors of Schnitzelburg located on the Clarks Lane side of Eastern Parkway to create a simple, welcoming space for neighbors to connect and get to know each other. Schnitzelbrat is now in its third season and is held once a month during the warm months. Bratwurst, sides, and some beverages, are provided and attendees are encouraged to bring a dish or drink to share.
This casual, community-driven, event is a great way to bring people together and build lasting friendships with neighbors. You can find information about upcoming monthly events on the Schnitzelbrat Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/schnitzelbrat/).
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Kentucky Shakespeare is rounding out their Shakespeare in the Parks tour with The Tempest in Schnitzelburg!
Catch the performance in Emerson Park on Sunday, May 24th at 6:30 pm.
"Thought is free"—and so is this show! No tickets or reservations required!
In case of inclement weather, most locations have alternate in-door spaces, still currently being determined below. All location changes will be shared on KY Shakespeare's Facebook and Instagram pages.
For more information visit: https://kyshakespeare.com/season/parkstour/.
The show is approximately 80 minutes long without an intermission. Please bring your own chairs, blankets, or other sitables that are most comfortable for you, for most venues.
Performances utilize a sound system with speakers. Sensory tools and noise-cancelling headphones for both adults and youth available for use at every performance.
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This summer, the Speed Art Museum is introducing a fresh take on their youth programming with In the Making: an exploratory art camp. This reimagined five-day experience invites young artists to go beyond the classroom and experiment with a range of traditional and contemporary techniques, including drawing, mixed media, sculpture, and painting. Each day combines instructor-led demonstrations with hands-on studio time, encouraging students to take creative risks and develop their own artistic voice.
Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.
Learn more and register: https://www.speedmuseum.org/speed-summer-camps/
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Village School Louisville will be hosting Summer Camps in June. Summer camps are open to the public and cost $250 per week.
For more information visit Village School of Louisville.
(Village School of Louisville is located in the old Our Mother of Sorrows school building on Eastern Parkway.)
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The Schnitzelburg Area Community Council (SACC) has launched a brand new business membership program and are asking local businesses to join or renew their membership for 2026. Your participation directly contributes to enriching Schnitzelburg through vibrant events such as the Dainty Festival, the #1 Citizen’s Dinner, the Community Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Movie Night, and the Holiday Cocoa Crawl, and more.
The funds raised not only support these beloved events but also fuel beautification projects and cover administrative costs that help SACC operate effectively. Businesses from outside Schnitzelburg are encourgaed to lend their support too, as every membership makes a difference. By becoming a member, you’ll have the chance to sponsor neighborhood gatherings and showcase your promotional materials at our events.
Each member will receive a new SACC Business Member Sticker, along with a designation indicating the year of your membership. This is something you can proudly display in your business window, showcasing your commitment to our community.
You can join at any of the following levels:
 Bronze = $50
 Silver = $100
 Gold = $200
 Platinum = $500
Getting involved is simple—payment can be made online. If you have any questions or would like to explore tailored sponsorship opportunities for specific events or initiatives, email sacc@schnitzelburg.org.
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Bring the whole family to the amphitheater from May through September for free outdoor movie screenings.
2026 MOVIE NIGHTS:
Monday, May 18: The Princess Bride presented by Monticello Bank
Monday, June 1: When We Were Kings
Monday, June 15: Hannah Montana Miley Cyrus Best of Both Worlds presented by Monticello Bank
Saturday, June 20: Wicked For Good Sing-Along
Monday, June 29: How to Train Your Dragon presented by Monticello Bank
Saturday, July 11: Almost Famous / This Is Spinal Tap (Double Feature!)
Monday, July 20: The Big Lebowski
Monday, August 3: Shaun of the Dead
Saturday, August 22: The Rocky Horror Picture Show (with Live Shadow Cast)
Saturday, September 5: Godzilla (1954) & Godzilla vs Destoroyah (Double Feature!) presented by Monticello Bank
https://iroquoisamphitheater.com/hollywood-classics-under-the-stars/
For more info or if you have questions, reach out to amphitheater@louisvilleky.gov or call (502) 368-5865.
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Louisville Grows invites you to their Seeds & Starts Sale.
This community event features hundreds of locally grown vegetable, herb, and flower starts, as well as native plants and fruit trees-perfect for gardeners of all levels. Proceeds support our work to grow greener, healthier neighborhoods across Louisville.
Event Dates: May 7 & 9
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Louisville Grows Greenhouse (1641 Portland Ave)
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Poorcastle Festival 2026
May 15-17, 2026
1 pm-11 pm each day
Jubilee Field (529 E Burnett Ave)
All ages
Four-legged friendly (on leash)
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Grab your blanket and lawn chairs and come out to Forest Fest on May 16 for a full‑day celebration of live music and local makers set in the beauty of Jefferson Memorial Forest!
Gates open at 11:30 AM, admission is $15 per car.
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Join the Toonerville Trolley Neighborhood Association for Springfest in Toonerville Trolley Park, Old Louisville's biggest springtime festival and neighborhood market. Held near the corner of Brook & Oak Street in Historic Old Louisville, the free event will be held on May 16 and is open to the general public. Springfest kicks off at 10 AM and rocks, eats, and shops until 7 PM!
Handmade artists, vendors, and non-profits will be selling their unique local art, upcycled goods, jewelry, pottery, clothing, handmade soaps, wood crafts, and artisanal food. Don’t miss out!
For more information on booth costs, timelines, and more, please contact them at oldlouspringfest@outlook.com.
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The Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) is hosting Anti Violence Coalition meetings throughout May. These meetings offer a free meal and provide an opportunity for neighbors to connect and discuss local violence prevention efforts.
District 15 residents should pay particular attention to the Taylor Berry Neighborhood AVC meeting on Thursday, May 21 at 5 pm at N Street Baptist Church (2914 S 6th St, Louisville, KY 40208).
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Kentucky Waterways Alliance will be hosting "Date Centers in Kentucky: A Community Conversation on May 26th from 12 to 1 pm on Zoom. It's a free meeting for volunteers, professionals, students, and concerned citizens.
Register here to receive the virtual meeting link.
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 The Louisville Independent Business Alliance (LIBA) will host the annual Buy Local Fair on Sunday, May 31st from 12:00pm-6:00pm at the Lynn Family Stadium Fan Zone. The event will include more than 100 booths from local retailers, organizations, and artists, as well as food and libations. Admission is free; stadium parking in the Purple Lot is $10 a carload with a portion supporting LIBA. Carpooling encouraged and bicycle parking is free. For more information, visit keeplouisvilleweird.com/buylocalfair
Help us save migrating birds this spring: Join the Lights Out Louisville program!
You might know that millions of birds migrate over Louisville every spring and fall. But did you also know that billions of migrating birds are injured or killed each year in the U.S.— and it’s due to artificial light at night pulling them off course or causing them to fly into windows and buildings?
With your help, Lights Out Louisville—a locally focused conservation program sponsored by the Louisville Audubon Society—aims to change that.
By taking a few simple actions, you can help us save migrating birds—and save money on your electricity bill at the same time!
This April and May, between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., do what you can to reduce artificial light at night.
That’s as easy as turning off nonessential lights—both indoors and outside—and closing blinds, shades, or curtains, or by reducing artificial light at night during peak migration months, we give migrating birds a better chance of surviving their long journeys.
If you choose to participate, you can also help us track our program’s impact by ZIP code: Go to www.lightsoutlouisville.org/go-lights-out/ and fill out the “pledge” form. It costs nothing and it takes less than 1 minute.
Visit www.lightsoutlouisville.org to learn more.
Together, we can make migration safer for birds. Thank you for choosing to join Lights Out Louisville!
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Please be aware of an upcoming traffic pattern change at the Waste Reduction Center, effective Tuesday, May 5.
Patrons will no longer be allowed to turn into the facility from Meriwether Street. All traffic must enter from Burnett Avenue.
This change is being made to improve traffic flow and safety for customers, staff, and nearby motorists.
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The City of Louisville is selling surplus fleet vehicles through a no-reserve online auction at Purple Wave Auction. Vehicles include Ford Crown Victoria, Explorer, Taurus, F-150s, Focus, and more, all previously used and maintained in municipal service in Louisville, KY.
Bidding is open now and closes May 12, with every item selling to the highest bidder through a transparent, fully online process: https://bit.ly/CityofLouisvilleKY
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May is National Bike Month, and that can only mean one thing — Bike to Work Day is back! Mark your calendars for Friday, May 15, 2026, and get ready to ride.
Bike Louisville will host five group rides starting at 7:30 a.m. from parks and locations across the region, including Iroquois Park, Seneca Park, Shawnee Park, George Rogers Clark Park, and the Big Four Station in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Each ride will be led by experienced volunteer ride captains and will end downtown at The Plaza on Fourth (222 S. 4th St.).
Riders will be welcomed downtown with coffee, donuts, and prizes — a well-earned reward for helping celebrate active, sustainable transportation in Louisville Metro.
Don’t have a bike? No problem. Lime will be deploying e-bikes at each Meet & Ride location and offering free rides into downtown. Participants can reserve an e-bike through the registration form.
Bike to Work Day is a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, connect with others, and experience the benefits of biking as a healthy and sustainable way to get around the city. Be sure to register in advance and view route maps for each ride by following the link below.
To see what Bike to Work Day was all about last year, watch this video!
REGISTER HERE!
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Louisville Metro Animal Services is hosting a Drive Thru Microchip Clinic on Sunday, May 17th from 1 pm to 3:30 pm at Louisville Metro Animal Services (3528 Newburg Rd).
Online registration required here.
Chips are $10 each. Payment is due at time of services.
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Jefferson County Residents Can Apply for Electric Assistance through the Louisville Metro Office of Social Services
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Spring Subsidy is here to help Kentucky households offset spring cooling costs. Enrollment starts April 20th and runs until May 22, 2026, or until designated funds are depleted, on a first-come, first-serve basis.
The LIHEAP Spring Subsidy Component is available to Jefferson County residents who are within 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Applicant must be responsible for home energy utility costs or pay energy costs if utilities are included as an undesignated portion of rent.
Jefferson County residents wishing to apply may schedule an appointment utilizing the automated appointment system. Appointments can be scheduled by phone by calling (502) 991-8391 or online at louisvilleky cascheduler. The toll-free service is currently open and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
All applicants will be required to supply the following documentation at time of application:
- Proof of Residence (Photo ID, property tax bill, lease, etc.).
- Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each member of the household.
- Proof of income from the preceding month for all members of the household.
- Most current electric bill, statement from your landlord if electric is included in your rent, statement from utility company if you participate in a Pre-Pay Electric Program.
- The account number and name on the account for main heating fuel sources and electric bill.
Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect a household's eligibility.
Household income must be at or below the following, relative to household size (Household Size + Gross Monthly Income):
- 1 + $1,995
- 2 + $2,705
- 3 + $3,415
- 4 + $4,125
- 5 + $4,835
- 6 + $5,545
- 7 + $6,255
- 8 + $6,965
Add $710 for each additional family member.
Must be responsible for home heating costs or pay heating costs as an undesignated portion of rent.
Residents may also call the automated LIHEAP information line at (502) 991-8391 or visit louisvilleky cascheduler.
The Louisville Metro Office of Social Services (OSS) serves as the administering agency of the Louisville Metro Community Action Agency.
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Solid Waste Association of North America is excited to introduce the 2026 SWANA Kentucky Bluegrass Chapter Scholarship & Member Recognition Program—a new initiative designed to support the future of our industry and recognize the outstanding individuals who make it strong today.
This program reflects our commitment to investing in education, workforce development, and leadership within Kentucky’s solid waste and recycling community.
For 2026, we are proud to offer the following opportunities:
• Academic Scholarship – Supporting students pursuing higher education in environmental and waste-related fields
• CDL Scholarship – Assisting individuals entering the workforce through commercial driver training
• Mechanics/Technician Scholarship – Supporting those pursuing careers in equipment maintenance and repair
• Member of the Year Recognition – Honoring a chapter member for exceptional leadership, service, and impact We encourage students, industry professionals, and members to apply or submit nominations.
Full details and application can be found by using the QR code. Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
Submission Email: scholarships@kyswana.com
All completed applications and nominations should be submitted via email by the deadline.
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Interested in helping create safer, more accessible streets for everyone in Louisville Metro? If so, you might consider applying to join the Complete Streets Coalition.
This group includes 15 community members along with representatives from the Louisville Metro Department of Transportation (DOT), TARC, and the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA). Members review publicly funded transportation projects to make sure they consider the needs of people of all ages and abilities across all modes of travel.
To learn more, click here.
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In a few short weeks, Louisville Parks and Recreation will be opening its four pools and water parks for family fun. This includes the locations at Nelson Hornbeck Park, Sun Valley Park, Algonquin Park, and, new this year, Camp Taylor Park!
To help support programs and events at these four facilities, Parks and Recreation is beginning a sponsorship banner program. For $400, businesses and organizations can become sponsors for the entire summer via a 2 x 7 or 3 x 6 vinyl banner. Typically, these banners should have a company logo and information (website, phone number, address) on them. They will be hung on the interior of the pool by parks staff.
All the proceeds that we raise from this endeavor goes directly back into the aquatics fund for swim classes, programs, amenities for the pool and other items. Good exposure + helping the community = win-win!
Pool banner sponsorship application: https://forms.louisvilleky.gov/form/260404287275054
Please contact Jon Reiter if you have any questions: jon.reiter@louisvilleky.gov.
The Construction Review, Code Enforcement, and Vacant Lots Dashboards each provide a simple, interactive way to keep track of important activities in our community. Whether you want to view building permits and inspections, monitor property complaints and code enforcement, or track work orders for vacant lots, these dashboards make it easy to find up-to-date information – all in one place. Explore each dashboard by clicking the buttons below to get the details you need and see what’s happening in your area!
Code Enforcement Dashboard | LouisvilleKY.gov
Construction Review Dashboard | LouisvilleKY.gov
Vacant Lots Dashboard | LouisvilleKY.gov
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TARC contractors have begun installing concrete pads and stanchions at roughly 200 new bus stops that must be constructed in advance of the launch of the New TARC Network in August. These new stops will allow nearby residents and businesses to enjoy the benefits of the New TARC Network and will ensure accessibility for all riders. Public notices will be posted at all future bus stop locations for the awareness of adjacent property owners and businesses.
Whereas the old network has a stop almost every block (3,341 stops in total), the new network is consolidating to one stop every three blocks (1,430 stops in total—a reduction of 1,911 stops) to help with on-time performance and service efficiency. Notices will be posted at any bus stops that are subject to removal. No existing TARC bus stops will be removed prior to August 2, 2026.
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TARC will be installing new TARC bus-stop signs later this spring to replace the existing red signs at bus stops that will be served by the New TARC Network. The new blue signs will be larger, double-sided, and will include more route information to help customers understand what buses are arriving at the stop and where they can go.
Learn more about the new routes here.
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Lawn Care for Cleaner Program Offers Rebates on Air Friendly Lawn Equipment
Making the switch from gasoline-powered lawn equipment to air-friendly, electric equipment can make a big difference in the air we all breathe. Louisville Metro Government is making that switch easier with cash rebates on electric mowers, trimmers, and leaf blowers, as well as human-powered reel mowers.
Rebates are available for all new electric and reel-powered equipment, but you can save even more by trading in your old, gas-powered equipment. Get up to $100 off a brand-new electric mower!
For program details, visit the Air Pollution Control District website or call (502) 574-6000.
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For the 11th year in a row, KIPDA Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living, and the Louisville Metro Office for Aging and Disabled Citizens are teaming up to provide fans for older adults and persons with disabilities to help offer relief from the sweltering summer heat. Persons or businesses interested in sponsoring fans will be able to make tangible or monetary donations to this effort until May 22nd, 2026.
The Fan Affair will happen on June 6th, 2026 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at the Edison Center (701 W. Ormsby Ave).
If you or your organization is interested in sponsoring, contact Alli at 502.574.5092 or allison.woosley@louisvilleky.gov
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Have a question about zoning in your neighborhood? Wondering how developments get approved?
Planning impacts how our neighborhoods grow, what the future of Louisville looks like, and where we live. Louisville Metro’s Office of Planning is hosting open Q&A sessions at library branches on select Tuesday afternoons. These sessions are free and open to the public – no RSVP required.
The goal of these conversations is simple: to make the planning process clearer and easier to understand.
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What is a Change of Use permit?
A change of use permit is required in Louisville whenever a property’s use shifts from one type to another – like converting a retail space into a restaurant or a warehouse into offices – even if no construction is planned. These permits are issued by Construction Review, a division of the Department of Codes and Regulations.
Why is it needed?
Different uses have different safety, building code, and zoning requirements. Examples: Turning a house into a short-term rental, a warehouse into a gym, or a church into an event venue.
How to apply?
Apply online through Louisville Metro’s Accela Citizen Access portal. City staff will review for code, zoning, and safety compliance before approval. If you are not a licensed contractor with Louisville Metro, please visit the Construction Review office at 444 S. 5th Street to apply.
Questions? Visit LouisvilleKY.gov/Construction or call (502) 574-3321.
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