Two Kentucky waste hauling companies have agreed to merge to create a full-service waste company for the central Kentucky region.

Sadieville, Ky.-based Waste Services of the Bluegrass Inc. and Legacy Carting LLC, Pittsburg, Ky., said in a news release they will merge to form a stronger competitor in the central Kentucky region, using their combined service offerings to spur future growth.

Waste Services of the Bluegrass operates the Central Kentucky Landfill located in Georgetown; along with Lexington-based Thoroughbred Disposal, a C&D landfill in Lexington; and Central Kentucky Hauling.

The combined company expects to hire additional employees in the region for expanded operation. The parties expect the deal to close this year.

“We are extremely pleased to announce this transaction with Legacy Carting, which enhances our position in the expanding Central Kentucky market,” said Todd Skaggs, president and CEO of Waste Services of the Bluegrass.

“The combination of our two companies is a great strategic fit – both operationally and culturally,” said Todd Hopper, president and CEO of Legacy Carting.