Lexington, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Lexington is unveiling a new comprehensive strategy to prepare for winter weather, focusing on snow and ice removal ahead of an anticipated severe winter. Streets and Roads Director Rob Allen will present the updated plan, which builds on lessons learned from last winter’s icy conditions. The city has 8,000 tons of salt and has invested $1.9 million in new snow removal equipment. With a winter storm warning in effect, local authorities are mobilizing resources to clear streets safely and effectively as they address potential homelessness during severe weather.
Lexington is taking significant steps to prepare for winter weather, unveiling a comprehensive new strategy aimed at optimizing snow and ice removal efforts as the season approaches. Streets and Roads Director Rob Allen is set to present the city’s updated plan during the Environmental Quality and Public Works Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday.
This updated strategy comes in response to the challenges faced after last winter’s icy conditions rendered many Lexington roads hazardous for several weeks. In anticipation of severe winter weather, the city has proactively leveraged enhanced resources, including additional staff and equipment, to ensure smoother operations during storms.
Currently, Lexington has 8,000 tons of salt stored in preparation for snow events, and an additional $1.2 million has been allocated for purchasing more salt if necessary. The city’s commitment to effective snow management includes an investment of $1.9 million in new snow removal equipment, such as tanker trucks and dump trucks, aiming to bolster operational capabilities.
Around 147 city employees, including 82 from the Streets and Roads Department, are ready to mobilize for street clearing during severe weather. The finalized snow plan, which details operational protocols and resource allocation, is set to be published on the city’s website by October 31.
Compounding these preparations, a winter storm warning is currently in effect for Lexington, lasting until Saturday at 7 a.m. Forecasts predict heavy snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches, prompting Mayor Linda Gorton to extend the city’s snow emergency until Monday, January 13.
During this snow emergency, all public safety divisions will work on a 24-hour schedule to address storm-related issues across the city. Residents are urged to avoid parking on designated snow emergency routes, which will assist in effective street clearing operations. City Streets and Roads crews will adopt 12-hour shifts and prioritize treating main roads for safe travel.
The snow emergency also allows for temporary delays in sidewalk clearance ordinances for property owners, enabling a more focused response for road treatment. Furthermore, city waste management will only collect trash during this period, suspending recycling and yard waste pickup due to the adverse weather conditions.
In light of the potential for increased homelessness during severe weather, the Office of Homelessness Prevention and Intervention has extended its Emergency Winter Weather Plan through January 17. This plan allows for overflow beds and relaxes restrictions for shelter access. Residents needing outreach assistance or shelter are encouraged to contact LexCall at 311.
Local law enforcement has reported several incidents linked to the winter weather, including 23 non-injury collisions on Friday, underscoring the impact of icy conditions on road safety. The city reassures residents of its comprehensive preparedness, with full salt barns and ready-to-deploy first responders standing by.
Key Features of the Winter Plan
- 8,000 tons of salt stored with a $1.2 million budget for more salt.
- $1.9 million invested in new snow removal equipment.
- 147 city employees poised for action, including 82 from the Streets and Roads Department.
- Emergency snow plan scheduled for release on October 31.
- Winter storm warning in effect with expected snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches.
- Snow emergency extended until January 13, 24-hour public safety operations active.
FAQs
What is the City of Lexington’s preparedness plan for winter weather?
Lexington has implemented a stronger winter weather strategy with more staff, equipment, and 8,000 tons of salt prepared ahead of the season to ensure better snow and ice removal this winter.
When will the updated snow plan be available?
The finalized snow plan is scheduled for release on October 31 on the city’s website.
How many employees are working to clear the streets?
A total of 147 employees, including 82 from the Streets and Roads Department, are ready to assist with street clearing during severe weather.
What should residents do during the snow emergency?
Residents are advised to avoid parking on designated snow emergency routes and are encouraged to contact LexCall at 311 for shelter or outreach assistance.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Lexington Snow Plan
- LEX18: Lexington Prepared for Winter Weather
- Fox56: Improvements to Lexington’s Winter Weather Plan
- Kentucky.com: Central Kentucky Winter Outlook
- LEX18: Lexington Government Winter Weather Preparations
- Wikipedia: Winter Weather
- Google Search: Winter Weather Preparedness
- Google Scholar: Winter Weather Plan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter
- Google News: Winter Weather News
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
