FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does the city decide which streets to plow?

Our first priority is to clear roads to hospitals, police and fire stations, so those with medical emergencies can get help as quickly as possible. Plow crews then concentrate on major thoroughfares, moving next to the major neighborhood streets that connect residents to those main arterials. Because of the magnitude of this storm, crews have plowed some residential streets, and will return to plowing the rest of them once the second storm passes.

When the plow came through my neighborhood, it pushed snow onto the sidewalk and driveways. Who is responsible for clearing that?

Residents are responsible for clearing driveways and sidewalks. We cannot provide an exact time when operators will plow your road; and unfortunately, plows cannot move their blade position to avoid driveways without reducing the effectiveness of the plow.

That might happen again a few days after the storms as plows work to push the plowed snow back further to ensure snow and ice melt off the streets. This can, in some circumstances, push additional snow onto driveways and sidewalks.

What if I have an emergency and my street isn't plowed?

If an emergency situation occurs, call 911.

I have a scheduled court date and can’t get out of my neighborhood. What can I do?

Call the Aurora Municipal Justice Center at 303-739-6444, explain your situation and ask to have your court date rescheduled.

My car was towed during the storm. What number do I call for information?

Call 303-739-6319 during business hours or 303-739-6050 after business hours

I take the bus to work. When are they going to clear the bus shelters and sidewalks?

Because of the magnitude of recent storms, it’s going to take some time to remove that snow. We appreciate your patience, and in the meantime, encourage residents to use extra caution on their way to the bus stop.

How Can I Help?

• Be patient and be assured that during a snowstorm every reasonable effort will be made to keep roadways open. During a major snowstorm, all our snow removal operators and equipment will be on the road.
• Shovel snow into your yard if possible, so plows do not push it into your driveway or sidewalk.
• If avoidable, do not park your car on the street – plows work best when the roads are free of vehicles.
• Do not attempt to stop a snowplow or obstruct its path. Plows must maintain speed for maximum efficiency.
• When approaching snow removal equipment from the rear, travel a minimum of 200 feet behind to allow for sanding and abrupt movements.
• Use extreme caution when passing snow removal equipment and before you pass, please honk your horn and/or flash your headlights to alert the operator you intend to pass.
• Do not park along snow routes. In residential areas, leave room for plows to get through safely and if possible, park off the street.
• Help your neighbors. Offer to help elderly neighbors shovel their walks and make sure people in your area have plenty of food.

Winter Driving Tips

• Do not drive unless you must.
• If you must drive, exercise extreme caution. Driving on snow-packed and icy roads requires your full attention and demands your best driving skills.
• Have adequate snow tires or chains in or on your vehicle.
• Remember to brake slowly and leave adequate room between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you.
• Be patient and drive at reduced speeds.
• Allow sufficient travel time to reach your destination.
• Drive defensively - Be courteous.

Where can I get the latest storm related information?

Visit the city website at www.auroragov.org or call the city at 303-739-7000.