Lexington crews make progress as winter storm response continues, mayor says
LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — Lexington leaders say the city is turning a corner in its winter storm recovery, with road conditions improving across major routes and crews now working deeper into neighborhoods.
Mayor Linda Gorton and city officials shared an update Wednesday, calling the response an “all hands-on deck” effort as the city continues battling ice and bitterly cold temperatures.
“While Lexington continues to battle ice and an extended period of bitter cold temperatures, city road crews have made significant progress, and the work continues,” Gorton said.
Even though the city’s state of emergency expired Wednesday morning, officials say crews remain focused on treating roads and restoring normal operations as quickly and safely as possible. The city continues prioritizing high-traffic routes, hospital access roads, and school routes — and is getting help from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, which sent additional trucks from counties that saw less snow and ice.
“Main roads are in much better condition, and road crews are actively working on neighborhood streets, busy intersections, and school routes,” Gorton said.
Free parking in downtown garages has ended with the expiration of the emergency declaration, but the mayor is continuing to delay enforcement of the city’s sidewalk shoveling ordinance due to dangerous icy conditions.
On the waste collection front, garbage pickup will resume Thursday for normal Thursday routes. Recyclables and yard waste will not be collected this week.
Gorton also thanked residents for staying off the roads when possible, saying it made a real difference in allowing crews and first responders to work safely.
Police, fire crews remain busy
According to the Lexington Police Department, officers have been responding nonstop to storm-related calls. From Saturday afternoon through Wednesday morning, police handled 11 injury crashes, 91 non-injury crashes, 264 motorist assists, 37 escorts, and 98 traffic hazards.
Officers continue urging drivers to slow down and watch for ice — especially on bridges and overpasses — noting that salt is less effective in extremely cold temperatures.
The Lexington Fire Department kept staff at the Emergency Operations Center throughout the storm and even sent crews to Monroe County to help with debris removal at the request of Kentucky Emergency Management. Fire officials are also reminding residents to use caution with space heaters and other heating equipment, which are a leading cause of winter house fires.
Shelters still operating at capacity
City officials say warming shelters and outreach efforts remain active for people experiencing homelessness. New Life Day Center is open during daytime hours, while Lighthouse Ministries is serving as an overnight warming center through February 2.
Outreach teams continue helping connect people to shelter, food, and warm clothing, and Lextran is offering free rides to shelters.
Officials note that most shelters are at or near capacity and recommend confirming bed availability before going.
Sheriff’s Office and parks updates
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office continues operating its Winter Care Program, providing transportation for healthcare workers, prescription pickups, welfare checks, and other essential services.
Several Parks and Recreation facilities remain closed, including all city golf courses and Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, as crews evaluate conditions. Some community center programs are also canceled.
City leaders say response efforts will continue as temperatures remain dangerously cold — and they’re asking residents to keep using caution and patience as cleanup moves forward.
