LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton is demanding faster completion of repairs to High Street and Fontaine Road, which have been damaged by utility improvements over recent months, according to city officials.

The deteriorated sections stem primarily from Kentucky American Water infrastructure upgrades. Gorton expressed frustration with the pace of work, saying she is asking contractors to "step on the gas" as asphalt plants reopen for the season.

"This work has been idling on for months, and just like everyone who travels these roads every day, I'm frustrated," Gorton said in a statement. She called for the utility to complete its work and for city crews to schedule resurfacing "as soon as possible."

The affected areas include High Street between Rose and Mill streets, and Fontaine Road from Chinoe Road through Euclid Avenue to Ashland Avenue. Kentucky American Water announced nearly $72 million in water and wastewater system upgrades throughout its service areas in Kentucky in 2025, as part of ongoing infrastructure modernization.

While awaiting utility completion, the city is taking interim action. City crews finished temporary improvements on Fontaine Road on Thursday and plan to shift focus to High Street this week, with the goal of smoothing the ride for residents and commuters.

Gorton attempted to contact the utility company to request expedited completion of its work, but reported that her calls went unreturned. The city has invested significant resources in infrastructure improvements, repairing nearly 9,000 potholes last year as part of broader road maintenance efforts.