LEXINGTON, Ky. — The city's Division of Water Quality is inviting businesses, nonprofits, schools and other organizations to apply for Stormwater Quality Incentive Grants that support projects aimed at improving water quality and reducing stormwater runoff across Fayette County.

Applications are currently open for large-scale infrastructure improvements, with a deadline of Friday, July 24. The city has moved to an online application process this year, eliminating the need to print and mail documents.

The program funds infrastructure projects including stream restoration, constructed wetlands, rain gardens, rainwater harvesting and pervious pavement installation. Eligible applicants include businesses, schools, churches, apartment complexes and other institutions that pay the Water Quality Management Fee in Fayette County.

The Division of Water Quality emphasizes that first-time applicants are welcome and strongly encouraged to apply. The city offers two virtual question-and-answer sessions scheduled for Monday, June 22 at 6 p.m. and Wednesday, June 24 at 1 p.m., where potential applicants can learn more about the grants and application process.

In addition to the Q&A sessions, prospective applicants may sign up for virtual office hours to meet one-on-one with Water Quality staff for 30 minutes. These sessions allow applicants to discuss their specific projects and receive feedback on their proposals. Sign-ups for July office hours are already available.

The grant program is designed to address stormwater management, which poses particular challenges in Lexington. As stormwater washes over roads, yards, roofs and parking lots, it picks up pollutants including motor oil, pet waste and fertilizer before flowing into the city's storm sewer system and ultimately into local creeks and streams.

More information about the Stormwater Quality Incentive Grants is available through the city's water quality website.