Saint John Launches Creative Contest to Name Snowplows

Saint John, New Brunswick, is inviting residents to participate in a fun initiative to name four of its snowplows. The city has partnered with a local radio station for its second annual Name the Plow contest, aiming to engage the community and add a personal touch to the winter maintenance fleet.

Starting on March 18, 2024, residents can vote online for their favourite names from a shortlist curated by the Saint John Common Council. The voting period will conclude on March 24, 2024, with the winning names set to be revealed the following day.

The City of Saint John expressed enthusiasm about the contest, stating, “Winning names will be proudly displayed on the sides of the plows with decals and featured in promotional photos and videos on social media.” This initiative allows residents to leave their mark on the city while seeing their chosen names in action throughout the winter season.

The first Name the Plow contest took place in January 2023 and garnered significant interest, receiving over 1,000 submissions from the public. The city expanded the number of named plows from four to eight due to the overwhelming response. A shortlist of 22 names was presented, and residents were invited to vote on their favorites. Notable winners included “Plow Chicka Plow Plow,” “Skip the Ditches,” and “Reversing Snowfalls.”

Saint John’s snow removal operations are extensive, with the fleet responsible for clearing snow and applying salt, sand, and brine across 1,160 lane kilometres of road. This distance is greater than the span between Saint John and Ottawa. The city also maintains 225 kilometres of sidewalks, ensuring safe passage for pedestrians during the winter months.

The Name the Plow contest not only promotes community engagement but also highlights the city’s commitment to efficient winter maintenance. Residents are encouraged to participate and contribute to this light-hearted yet significant aspect of municipal services. As the city gears up for another winter season, the contest serves as a reminder of the collaborative spirit within Saint John, bringing residents together in a creative and enjoyable way.

For more updates on local news and events in New Brunswick, residents can visit the dedicated provincial news page.