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Rapid Thaw Triggers Pothole Surge as Louisville and Cincinnati Race to Patch Roads

Crews are relying on cold‑mix patches until warmer weather allows permanent hot‑mix repairs.

Overview

  • Louisville Metro Public Works reports roughly 2,500 potholes filled to date and targets repairs within 72 working hours, concentrating first on major thoroughfares.
  • Cincinnati says crews have patched nearly 3,500 potholes citywide, with 1,339 filled in the past week; the Department of Public Services typically responds to requests within about two weeks.
  • State officials with ODOT and KYTC attribute the spike to repeated freeze–thaw cycles and say highway fixes, including along I-75, are largely temporary until sustained warmth returns.
  • Auto shops across the region report a rise in tire, wheel and suspension damage, and AAA estimates potholes cost U.S. drivers more than $3 billion annually.
  • Residents are urged to report hazards via Metro311 in Louisville, the 311Cincy app or state portals, and Cincinnati offers a damage-claim process for city‑maintained streets if prior notice and delayed action can be shown.