LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The former Givaudan plant site in Louisville’s Clifton neighborhood is one step closer to redevelopment after the city’s Planning Commission voted Thursday night to recommend rezoning the property.
The commission is urging Metro Council to approve changing the site from heavy industrial use to C-M commercial manufacturing, a designation that would allow light manufacturing, warehousing, wholesale distribution and potentially mixed-use development, including residential and retail.
The recommendation comes more than a year after a deadly explosion at the plant that killed two workers and injured 11 others in November 2024. The site has remained under cleanup since the blast.
Officials said the proposed zoning change would help shift the property toward a safer and more flexible use.
"We believe this is a more appropriate use for the property, is better for residents, and will be a great opportunity for the neighborhood to grow,"Â said Pam Vetter with the Clifton Community Council.
The Planning Commission also recommended Metro Council to study whether the surrounding industrial corridor should be considered for future rezoning changes.
Some Clifton residents have voiced concerns about any continued industrial activity in the area, citing safety and traffic issues following the explosion and ongoing cleanup.
Others said redevelopment could bring long-term investment and new uses for the vacant site.
Metro Council will now take up the rezoning proposal for final consideration.
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