The District of Columbia’s Department of Public Works (DPW) has opened a light‑hearted “Name That Plow” contest, asking residents to christen the eight snowplows that clear streets each winter. Each vehicle will represent one of the city’s eight wards, giving neighborhoods a chance to see their local pride reflected on the front of a snow‑removal truck.
How the contest works
DPW Interim Director Chris Rodriguez explained that while snow removal is a serious public‑safety task, the agency wants to involve the community in a fun way. “Snow removal is serious business, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun along the way,” Rodriguez said.
Participants may submit any name they like, from clever snow‑related puns to references to beloved local landmarks or inside jokes that capture the spirit of a ward. The contest follows the District Snow Team’s recent completion of Snow Mobilization Week, an annual drill that readies equipment and personnel for the upcoming winter season.
Submission details
Entries are accepted online at tinyurl.com/DPW-Name-That-Plow through Tuesday, November 10. After the deadline, Rodriguez will review the submissions and select a winning name for each ward. The chosen names will be announced on December 15 and will appear on the side of the corresponding snowplow for the 2026‑2027 winter season.
Why naming matters
Beyond the novelty, the naming contest serves a practical purpose: it reinforces community awareness of the DPW’s winter‑readiness efforts and encourages residents to stay informed about snow‑removal routes and schedules. By highlighting each ward’s unique character, the initiative also strengthens the bond between city services and the neighborhoods they serve.
DPW officials noted that the contest is part of a broader outreach strategy that includes public meetings, social‑media updates, and educational materials about safe travel during snow events. Residents are encouraged to follow the department’s official channels for real‑time snow‑removal alerts and road‑closure information throughout the season.
Looking ahead
As the District prepares for potentially harsher winter weather, the Department of Public Works remains focused on maintaining clear, safe streets for commuters, school buses, and emergency responders. The “Name That Plow” contest is a reminder that even essential public‑works functions can benefit from community participation and a touch of creativity.
For more information about the contest, snow‑removal schedules, or to view the full list of participating snowplows, visit snow.dc.gov.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
