WORCESTER—Worcester spent more than $10 million battling snow and ice during the 2025–26 winter season, nearly doubling its original $5.5 million budget as a string of storms pushed city resources to their limits.
A Department of Public Works report set to be reviewed by the city council outlines a season defined by heavy snowfall, rising costs and operational strain — even as city officials say crews delivered a strong response under difficult conditions.
The city recorded 79.4 inches of snow this winter, making it the eighth snowiest season in Worcester’s history. Crews responded to 22 separate weather events, including a 22-inch storm in late January and a February blizzard that dropped another 16 inches.
Salt usage surged alongside the snowfall. The city spread 20,729 tons this season, a 52.2% increase from the previous year, while spending climbed to $1.46 million — up sharply from $861,680. The average cost per ton also rose 11.4%, reflecting broader pricing pressures.
The report points to several ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages during extended storms, aging equipment, fewer contractor units than in past years and deteriorating salt storage facilities. Officials also acknowledged rising expectations from residents around response times and street conditions.
Despite those pressures, the administration said the city’s response held up over the course of the winter, even as back-to-back storms tested capacity.
The report is expected to serve as a roadmap for potential improvements ahead of next winter, as city officials weigh how to manage costs while maintaining service levels during increasingly unpredictable weather.
Charlene Arsenault can be reached at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
