Dry Winter Shifts Work for Aurora Businesses, Public Works

Lack of snow this season has reduced demand for snow removal and other winter services in Colorado city.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A historically dry winter in Colorado has left businesses and public works crews in Aurora struggling to adapt. The city has seen just 11.4 inches of snow so far this season, compared to a typical 45-60 inches. This has dramatically reduced the need for snowplows, shoveling assistance, and other snow-related services, forcing some businesses to find alternative work to keep employees paid.

Why it matters

Aurora's lack of snow this winter highlights the economic impact that weather patterns can have on local businesses and municipal operations. Companies that rely on snow removal and other winter services are facing financial strain, while the city's public works department has been able to take on additional projects typically delayed until spring.

The details

The city's Snow Busters program, which connects volunteers with residents who need help clearing sidewalks, has seen a dramatic drop in requests. The public works department has been able to conduct small-scale paving projects and street sweeping that are normally delayed until warmer months. However, landscaping companies like Javi's Landscaping have lost significant income from the lack of snow removal calls, forcing some employees to seek temporary work elsewhere.

  • By early March, the city of Aurora had recorded just 11.4 inches of snow this season.
  • Historically, Aurora averages between 45 and 60 inches of snow each winter.
  • March and April are typically the snowiest months in Colorado.

The players

Anthony Bolton

An administrative specialist with Aurora's Housing and Community Services Department who helps coordinate the Snow Busters program.

Marc Tamburro

The Deputy Director of Public Works Operations for the City of Aurora.

Javier Banda

The owner of Javi's Landscaping, a company that typically receives steady calls for snow removal during winter storms.

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What they’re saying

“There are five shovels just sitting behind my desk, ready to roll. I broke down a 50-pound bag of salt into a bunch of gallon-sized zip locks to give out, but they're all still lingering.”

— Anthony Bolton, Administrative Specialist, Aurora Housing and Community Services Department

“There are still approximately six weeks remaining in our snow season. The City of Aurora Street Operations Division will be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.”

— Marc Tamburro, Deputy Director of Public Works Operations, City of Aurora

“Whenever I don't get a paycheck, my workers don't get a paycheck, so it hurts me.”

— Javier Banda, Owner, Javi's Landscaping

What’s next

With March historically the snowiest month in Colorado, Javier Banda says he's still hoping for at least one storm to help keep his business afloat through the end of the season.

The takeaway

This dry winter in Aurora highlights the economic vulnerability of businesses and municipal services that rely heavily on seasonal weather patterns. As climate change brings more unpredictable weather, communities will need to find ways to diversify their economies and operations to better withstand the impacts of changing weather trends.