DOT: Name A Snowplow At Thompson Pass – Which Has 500 Inches Of Snow Every Winter

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  October 20, 2025 CONTACT: Eli Kesten-Brackett, 907.209.3638, eli.kesten-brackett@alaska.gov

Alaska DOT&PF Winter 2025–26 Name the Snowplow Contest: Thompson Pass Edition. (JUNEAU, Alaska) – Fans of winter will get another chance to participate in the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) annual Name a Snowplow contest. This year, one plow serving the Richardson Highway through Thompson Pass will carry the winning name chosen by Alaskans. “This annual contest has become a favorite among Alaskans and our winter snow and ice operators who who work tirelessly to keep our roads clear and safe during winter,” said DOT&PF Commissioner Ryan Anderson. Thompson Pass is a 2,600’ mountain pass along the Richardson Highway, that annually receives over 500 inches of snow a year. The Richardson Highway links Alyeska Pipeline’s Valdez Marine Terminal with Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Canada, playing a critical role in Alaska’s economy and energy supply chain. The highway also supports local traffic and connects Valdez to its nearest neighbor to the north, Glennallen, 119 mile away. To keep this vital corridor moving freight, fuel, and essential goods reliable, DOT&PF crews work year-round in one of the snowiest places in North America, where heavy storms regularly challenge the highway’s operation. “This stretch of highway is both beautiful and challenging,” said Jason Sakalaskas, Northern Region Maintenance & Operations Chief. “The team at Thompson Pass works around the clock through some of Alaska’s harshest conditions. We’re eager to see what creative name the public comes up with to honor their hard work.” In year’s past the public has helped name the following snowplows: 2018: Jack and Jill Frost (Fairbanks) 2023: Darth Blader (Anchorage) 2024: Berminator, Salt-O-Saurus Rex and Ka-PLOW (Juneau) The contest is open now. Entries will be accepted through Thursday, Oct. 31, 2025. The winning name will be announced in mid-November 2025. To submit your idea, visit dot.alaska.gov/nameasnowplow. ☃️