The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) District 1 is pleased to announce the return of the Paint the Plow program and is now accepting applications through Friday, March 11. The program has been suspended, missing two spring seasons, due to concerns over COVID -19.
High schools and vocational school clusters in its eight-county region, including Allen, Defiance, Hancock, Hardin, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert and Wyandot counties are eligible.
The annual Paint the Plow program allows students to paint an ODOT snowplow blade with a message of school spirit, Ohio pride, patriotism or safety. The decorated blades are displayed at local community events before being used in regular winter operations.
Plow blades will be dropped off at participating schools the week of March 28 and picked up by May 6. Winners will be announced before Memorial Day via media and social media.
In the last competition, held in 2019, Miller City-New Cleveland High School in Miller City won the overall ODOT Choice title, while Cory-Rawson High School in Rawson won the People’s Choice Award, which was determined based on votes on social networks. The same award categories will return this year.
“We would like to encourage artists to develop messages that highlight safe driving practices,” said Hughes. “Additional recognition on social media will be given to entries that raise awareness of topics such as distracted driving, seat belt use, and compliance with Ohio law requiring motorists to slow down or pull over. move when approaching vehicles with flashing lights along the highway,” he said.
Printed applications are distributed to eligible schools within a month. Those wishing to receive an application electronically may do so by contacting the ODOT District 1 Public Information Office at 419-999-6803 or [email protected]. A school administrator must approve participation and sign the application.
