LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The City of Lexington is getting ready for the University of Kentucky Men’s Basketball Team’s appearance in the NCAA Sweet 16 on Friday, March 28.

What You Need To Know

  • The Lexington Police Department is monitoring NCAA Tournament celebrations at its Intelligence Center

  • Road closures are possible, and people should be careful when traveling downtown or on the University of Kentucky’s campus

  • Police are reminding the community to not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

  • The Lexington Fire Department will also have an Incident Management Team on standby at Fire Station 6 on Scott Street

The city is working with several divisions and partner agencies to keep people safe before and after the game. 

“This is a thrilling time for Lexington, and we’re excited to celebrate the success of our hometown team,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “We must work together to ensure that celebrations remain peaceful and safe.”

The Lexington Police Department urges the community to celebrate responsibly. The department’s Real-Time Intelligence Center will monitor celebrations.

“Peaceful celebrations are welcome. However, criminal acts, such as vandalism, criminal mischief and disorderly conduct, will not be tolerated,” said Incident Commander Sam Murdock.   

In addition to the NCAA Tournament, the KHSAA Boy’s Sweet 16 Basketball Tournament will take place at Rupp Arena Wednesday, March 26 through Saturday, March 29.

People should use caution when traveling downtown and in campus areas. Road closures are possible. Anyone who encounters a road closure or traffic should follow officers’ directions and slow down.

Police are reminding the community to not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and use ride shares or have a sober driver. Also, be mindful of others and their property.

“The UK Police Department will increase patrols on campus and adjacent areas before, during and after the game on Friday,” UK Police Chief Joe Monroe said. “The department will also have additional staff on hand and utilize its campus security system, which includes over 4.000 cameras, to heighten situational awareness. Contingency plans are in place to be deployed in the event of any major emergencies. As always, we work closely with the City of Lexington and Lexington Police to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.”

The Lexington Fire Department will also have an Incident Management Team on standby at Fire Station 6 on Scott Street. Various fire and EMS units will be staged in the area.   

The Division of Code Enforcement has issued its “Emergency Abatement” to all property owners in the Waller and Elizabeth Street corridors. The notice remains in effect until 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 9.

During this time, the city asks residents to remove any indoor furniture from the properties’ exterior, and keep the property free of trash and debris. Code Enforcement will complete a grid sweep of the standard celebration areas, checking for items in violation of the notice. If violations are found, the team will take steps to remove items from the property.

Lexington’s Division of Waste Management will help clear debris from streets. Waste Management will begin securing Herbie and Rosie carts on Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27. Dumpsters in the Limestone corridor will be emptied.          

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