News Blog: Use ranked-choice voting to select the next five snowplow names

(Jan. 14, 2026) The submissions are in, 20 names have been chosen, and now the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) and the City Elections Office call on the public to help choose the top five snowplow names.

Between Dec. 23, 2025 and Jan. 5, 2026 we received over 3,300 snowplow name submissions. We've narrowed down the submissions and selected the top 20 for you to vote on.

Vote for your favorite names using the ranked-choice voting ballot here. Vote by Sunday, Jan. 23 at 5 p.m.

Rank your favorite snowplow names

Practice ranked-choice voting

Use this as an opportunity to practice your ranked-choice voting skills! Portland introduced ranked choice voting to vote for the mayor, city auditor and 12 councilmembers in 2024. In a ranked-choice voting system, voters have the option to rank candidates in order of preference instead of selecting only one candidate. Learn more about ranked choice voting.

Out of 20 options, you have the opportunity to rank your six favorite names. The top five overall winners will be the next snowplow names. Choose wisely, you can only vote once.

Find rules, contest timeline, and more on our snowplow contest website.

Prepare for winter weather now

PBOT is the lead agency for the city's winter weather response. Now's the time to prepare for severe weather. View preparedness tips and resources atPortland.gov/winter

Tips include:

• Create an emergency plan for winter weather with friends, family, and coworkers
• Put together an emergency bag for your vehicle stocked with items like water, food, traction for your tires and feet, and a flashlight
• Prepare an emergency kit for your home and business
• Stock up on supplies like ice melt and a snow shovel sooner rather than later
• Stay informed with severe weather information by signing up for PBOT alertsvia text or email. Follow @PBOTInfo on all social media.
• Visit PBOT's Guide to the Winter Weather Center to learn how to track the latest weather, traffic, road closure, and snowplow information.
• Get to know your nearby transit stops. Plan your route atTriMet.org or call 503-238-7433 for bus and MAX. Portland Streetcar schedules and information here. For service to OHSU's Marquam Hill campus, check Portland Aerial Tram for information on capacity and hours during severe weather.