Lexington filed a complaint with the state Public Service Commission against Kentucky American Water over construction projects across the city.
The complaint alleges the utility’s construction work has been inadequate and insufficient for residents, has disrupted commerce and traffic and has damaged public and personal property.
"We have tried to work with Kentucky American on difficult construction projects, we have met with them, and we have repeatedly let them know that their work practices in Lexington are lacking and unacceptable,” Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton said in a release from the city. “They don’t listen to us and they don’t listen to our residents. They have to listen to the Public Service Commission.”
Those include projects to repair water mains on Fontaine Road and North Limestone, plus construction work on South Upper Street, Bell Court and Corral Street.
In July, WEKU reported Kentucky American contractors damaged private sewer lines during their work on Fontaine Road, causing delays. No significant sewage leaks have been reported.
The complaint says Kentucky American has incurred nearly $270,000 in permit fees since 2019, and $27,000 dollars in 2026. Gorton said in the release she’s concerned the increased construction costs will be passed on to the utility’s customers.
The city is requesting the commission investigate Kentucky American’s construction policies, including an audit of its operations and management.
