(JUNEAU, Alaska) – The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) is excited to announce the return of the annual "Name the Snowplow" contest for Winter 2024—and this year, it’s focused on the capital city, Juneau! Residents are invited to flex their creativity and submit names for a team of three snowplows that will serve Juneau throughout the winter season.

“This contest is a chance for Alaskans to show their appreciation for the plow operators who work tirelessly to keep our roads clear and safe during winter,” said DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “By naming a team of plows, we’re highlighting the teamwork required to manage the unique challenges of winter weather in Juneau.”

“Juneau has such a close connection to its winters, and we’re eager to see what names the community comes up with,” said DOT&PF Contest Coordinator Danielle Tessen. “Whether humorous, heartfelt, or inspired by Juneau’s rich history and culture, we know the names will showcase the spirit of our capital city.”

Nominations can be submitted online at dot.alaska.gov/nameasnowplow and during this year’s 2024 Virtual Alaska Snow Summit, on Thursday, Nov. 21, from 10-11:30 a.m. Presentations will include snow and ice removal, partnerships, and new developments to 511, the department’s traveler information system. To attend the Virtual 2024 Snow Summit, visit: dot.alaska.gov/events/snowsummit

Contest Details:

• Submission Deadline: 11:59 a.m. Thursday, November 28, 2024
• Submission Method: visit dot.alaska.gov/nameasnowplow
• Winning Selection Announced: Friday, November 29, 2024

Submission Guidelines:

1. Three Names Required: Each entry must include three complementary names for the snowplow team.
2. Character Limit: Each name must be no more than 30 characters (including letters and spaces).
3. Keep It Classy, Alaska: Submissions with profanity or inappropriate language will not be considered.
4. Nonpartisan Fun: Politically inspired names (e.g., slogans or plays on politicians' names) will not be accepted.

“Snowplows are critical to maintaining our way of life during Juneau’s harsh winters,” said Southeast Region Maintenance & Operations Chief Marcus Zimmerman. “Naming a team of three plows serving Juneau underscores the importance of the work our crews do in maintaining safe and passable roads for our residents and visitors.”

Get Involved:
For more information about the "Name the Snowplow Team Contest" or the Alaska Snow Summit, visit dot.alaska.gov/nameasnowplow or contact Danielle.Tessen@alaska.gov.

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The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

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