Council gives first reading to ordinance closing a portion of Longview Road right-of-way

The Jeffersontown City Council gave first reading by title on Jan. 21 to an ordinance (14‑67, Series 2025) proposing to close a portion of unimproved public right‑of‑way along Longview Road in the Southern Breeze subdivision.

Why it matters: Staff said closing the unimproved segment would allow the property owner to create an additional buildable lot while preserving an existing sidewalk and the bike/pedestrian connection.

Staff summary. City planning staff said the closure applies only to a short, unimproved portion of Longview Road at the top of the subdivision curve; the adjacent sidewalk and pedestrian path would remain in public right‑of‑way and would be maintained by the city. Staff noted the Southern Breeze subdivision retains other access points, including a roadway connection to Hill Ridge Subdivision, and that Metro Planning Commission recommended approval.

Questions from council. Council members asked whether closing the right‑of‑way would prevent future road extension or connectivity; staff said the unimproved section was historically left unimproved and that converting an existing private driveway or extending pavement would require additional city action and expense (a new plat, etc.). Staff identified the owner of the affected property as Philip Lay.

Procedure and next steps. Because this item was before the council as an ordinance first reading, no final action was required that night. Staff told the council no further action was required that evening and explained the normal ordinance adoption timeline.

No public comment or opposition to the closure was recorded in the meeting minutes.