LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- As freezing temperatures continue, potholes are once again causing concern for drivers on Louisville's roads.

The city's ongoing freeze-thaw cycle has contributed to the road damage, according to Metro Public Works spokesperson Salvador Melendez. 

"It's bad. It's really bad," one man said downtown Thursday.

Metro Public Works officials said the problem is a familiar one: Water seeps into cracks in the pavement, expands when frozen and ultimately creates potholes when it thaws. The result? Rougher roads across the city, particularly in high-traffic areas like Chestnut and Jefferson streets.

Fixing the problem is a year-round job. Melendez said crews have already filled around 12,000 potholes since January. But recent severe weather, including flooding and snow, has temporarily shifted priorities.

"Up until this weather came, that's what they were working on," Melendez said.

He said the city repairs an estimated 40,000 potholes each year. There is typically a "pothole blitz" each spring. While crews are asking for patience in this weather, drivers are hoping solutions can come quickly. 

"Potholes are messing up the tires," one frustrated driver said Thursday. "We ain't got no money to fix the tires. We barely got money to put gas in it."

Another driver said the issue is more than a mere inconvenience.

"I think it goes beyond just being an annoyance," she said, describing her efforts to dodge potholes while driving downtown for work. "It can actually damage your car depending on how the pothole is and rough it is on your car when you're driving."

Metro Public Works is asking for patience as crews prioritize cleanup from recent storms before returning to pothole repairs.

"As soon as possible, our crews will tend to those needs," Melendez said.

Residents can report potholes in three ways:

  • Online at Louisville Metro 311
  • By calling Metro 311
  • On social media using the hashtag #502Pothole

As far as state roads, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet said crews are currently addressing pothole issues. Spokesperson Morgan Woodrum said a cold mix is applied to potholes in the winter for a short-term repair. She said in warmer months, potholes are repaired using a hot asphalt mix to smooth rough areas and "ensure a stable fill." 

If your vehicle was damaged on a highway or interstate, you'll need to contact the Kentucky Department of Transportation. A link on its website allows you to submit a claim for consideration. CLICK HERE to submit a claim. 

Related Stories:

Copyright 2025 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.