The Lexington City Council Work Session on September 9, 2025, focused on several key topics, including the renewal of a contract for traffic data services and infrastructure improvements at the West Hickman Wastewater Treatment Plant.
One of the primary discussions centered on the renewal of a four-year contract with Streetlight Data, which provides traffic monitoring services. This will be the final year of the current agreement, and the council explored enhancements to the service. The city had previously considered another vendor, Urban SDK, which offered a dashboard feature for monitoring traffic speeds. In response, Streetlight Data agreed to modify their contract to include a similar citywide dashboard that tracks traffic speeds relative to posted limits. This new functionality aims to improve traffic management by identifying bottlenecks and enhancing signal timing, all while maintaining the same cost.
Additionally, there was a suggestion to ensure that local police are equipped with access to this data, which could aid in addressing speeding issues in specific areas. The council expressed hope that better data usage would enhance public safety efforts.
Another significant topic was the replacement of a grit concentrator at the West Hickman Wastewater Treatment Plant. The council discussed a purchase agreement with Hatra International for this replacement, as one of the existing units had failed. The grit concentrator is essential for removing debris from wastewater, ensuring that the treatment process can proceed effectively. The timeline for installation remains uncertain, with ongoing concerns about delays in project completion.
Lastly, the council reviewed an agreement with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet to accept federal funds for a study of the Winchester Road corridor. This study will assess land use, transportation, safety, and access along the corridor, which stretches from Midland Avenue to the interstate. Public engagement will be a key component of this study, allowing community members to participate in the planning process.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to improving traffic management and wastewater infrastructure while ensuring community involvement in transportation planning.