Westland Middle School in Bethesda Named Winner of Montgomery County’s ‘Paint the Plow’ Contest to Celebrate Public Works Week

For Immediate Release: Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Westland Middle School in Bethesda was selected as the first-place winner of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOT) “Paint the Plow” snowplow naming contest. The winning design featured the “Squirtle Squad” from the Pokémon franchise and a “Road Runner” theme. 

The Paint the Plow contest is held each year as part of “Public Works Week” to honor essential workers. During the special week, MCDOT recognizes the employees of its Division of Highway Services with a social media campaign highlighting public works employees and the vital role they play in the safety and quality of life of County residents.  

“I want to thank MCPS and the participating students and teachers for helping us recognize the hard work and dedication of our public works employees,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “From keeping our streets clear of snow and ice, paving our roads and collecting yard debris, to maintaining our vital sanitary and storm sewer systems, their efforts keep our County safe, clean and thriving.” 

The decorated snowplows were displayed at MCDOT’s “Truck Day” event on June 1. The free event in Rockville had nearly 2,000 attendees who were invited to vote for their favorite snowplow design. 

Teams from 16 county middle schools participated in the contest. Student teams had four days to name and decorate their snowplows. MCDOT provided the snowplows and paint supplies.  

The winners selected were: 

• First place and awarded $500: Westland Middle School in Bethesda for its decorated snowplow with a Road Runner theme named “Beep Beep.” 
• Second place and awarded $300: Redland Middle School in Redland for its decorated snowplow with a Snoopy theme named “Scoopy.” 
• Third place and awarded $200: Roberto Clemente Middle School in Germantown for its decorated snowplow with a Zombie theme named “Zombinator.” 

Residents will see the decorated plows in action this winter. The plows will be deployed during snow and ice events to help clear roadways.  

“The annual Truck Day and Paint the Plow contest lets us showcase the vital role public works employees play in contributing to and enhancing our quality of life,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Public works employees are on the front lines during emergency conditions, including winter weather events, and these snowplows will serve as a reminder of the valuable work they do.” 

“Public Works Week” is a nationally recognized week in May to honor essential workers. The American Public Works Association selected "Advancing Quality of Life for All" as the theme for the 2024 National Public Works Week. “Public Works Week” was observed May 19-25. 

Pictures of the painted plows can be viewed on the MCDOT “Paint the Plow” page or on the social media platforms listed below. 

For information on MCDOT programs and services visit montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot, follow @MCDOTNow on X, Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter. 

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Release ID: 24-275
Media Contact: Emily DeTitta 240-372-2282
Categories: Transportation