A month after Givaudan explosion, Clifton residents struggle with aftermath as lawsuits mount

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — It has been one month since a devastating explosion at the Givaudan plant rocked the Clifton neighborhood, leaving two people dead and dozens without homes. While workers are back on-site and cleanup efforts are underway, many residents are still grappling with the aftermath.

Caution tape still surrounds several homes in the Clifton neighborhood, marking the lingering effects of the blast. Spots where large pieces of debris landed remain visible in some yards, and boarded-up windows along Payne Street serve as stark reminders of the destruction.

“Windows blown out, some plaster knocked loose,” said Mike Williams, a neighbor affected by the explosion.

While construction equipment signals activity at the Givaudan site, some neighbors feel the company’s priorities are misplaced. Residents who declined to go on camera claim Givaudan has focused more on creating parking for construction workers than addressing property repairs. Calls for assistance from the company have reportedly gone unanswered, leading to lawsuits being filed.

IMAGES | Explosion at plant in Louisville leaves wake of destruction, workers hospitalized

Another lawsuit was filed this week, accusing Givaudan of negligence. The suit alleges that evacuated properties were burglarized and residents have not received adequate financial support for damages or long-term housing needs. Nearly 500 people have signed a petition urging the company to relocate outside of the residential area.

Williams expressed mixed feelings about the company’s presence in the neighborhood.

“They’ve been here a long time. They’ve had some mishaps in the past with dangerous circumstances, chemicals, protocols that weren’t really followed. Seems like maybe they could’ve been better citizens here, but there’s two sides to every story, of course,” he said.

Residents are demanding more robust safety measures from Givaudan, including clear emergency protocols for handling hazardous chemicals.

“I think maybe they should relocate, but at the least, they should do more safety stuff,” Williams added. “If they have dangerous chemicals on site, people should know what to do in the event of an emergency, which they didn’t seem to be prepared for.”

For those still seeking assistance, a community meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the United Crescent Hill Ministries, located at 150 State Street. For property assessments, repair follow-ups, and insurance-related questions, residents can contact Crawford & Co. at (404) 913-1949. Emails can also be sent to givaudanclaims@us.crawco.com.

For questions directly related to Givaudan, call or text (502) 341-2903. Officials said someone will answer directly or return your call or text within 2 business days. Emails can also be sent to communitysupport@ddwcolor.com.

As the community continues to rebuild, many are left wondering what steps Givaudan will take to ensure safety and restore trust in the neighborhood.

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