LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Late-night crowds in Louisville’s Highlands neighborhood that prompted dozens of arrests over several weekends appear to be easing.
According to police and residents, the change follows a stepped-up law enforcement presence and other adjustments along Bardstown Road.
Louisville Metro Police said the past two weekends have been calm, with six arrests last weekend — several tied to outstanding warrants — a decrease from earlier weekends, when arrests numbered in the dozens.
Neighbors and business owners say they are noticing the difference.
"A couple of weeks ago have been quiet, or there is no more issues in the night," said Katheryn Correa, who works at a coffee shop in the Highlands and has watched the late-night problems unfold.
Correa said the neighborhood is known for its nightlife and should still feel welcoming.
"Obviously, if someone wants to go out at night and have a great night — it is supposed to be quiet and beautiful," she said.
Concerns about disorderly crowds intensified last month after a shooting outside Atomic led to a suspension of the bar’s liquor license. The license was reinstated two weeks ago.
Robert Suarez, who lives a few hundred feet from several bars, said the changes have been noticeable compared to earlier weekends.
"There used to be a lot of people basically hollering, being drunk, trying to start fights," Suarez said.
Tensions had grown enough that some residents sought a "moist" election that, if approved by voters, would have required certain bars to generate at least 70% of their revenue from food sales — a move aimed at shifting the corridor away from late-night bar traffic.
Those petition efforts have since been suspended.
LMPD deployed a Summer Task Force to patrol busy stretches of Bardstown Road, with officers on foot, on ATVs and on horseback. Additional lighting has been installed in some of the busiest areas.
"Generally, just a lot of foot patrols and being present and not having to take enforcement action, which is always preferred for any kind of policing in the community," said Officer Adam Sears, a spokesperson for LMPD.
The Highlands Commerce Guild said businesses along the corridor have reported a noticeable change in crowds and rowdiness.
Police said they plan to maintain an increased presence in the area throughout the summer and on other high-traffic weekends during the year.
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