In a move that blends community engagement with municipal operations, Fort Collins has launched what they're calling the "Frost Fleet," an initiative that features six snowplows named and personified by local elementary students. Aimed at celebrating the unsung heroes who keep the city's streets passable during the snowy season, the project represents a collaboration with Poudre School District (PSD) and has led to some uniquely named snow movers including Snowbacca and Larry the Snow Czar, among others.
Over 120 imaginative submissions poured in from classrooms citywide but, the competition was fierce, and only 20 finalists made it to the judging round where the City’s snowplow drivers selected the winners. According to the City of Fort Collins, the names now adorning the six snowplows are Snowbacca, Larry the Snow Czar, The Blizzard of Oz, Scoop Dog, The Abominable Snow Monster, and Snowzilla.
The "Frost Fleet" got a proper introduction with students from the winning classrooms given a chance to see the plows up close and learn about their integral role in winter safety and transportation. "This project is a great example of how we can collaborate with our community in fun and meaningful ways," said James Reed, Fort Collins Senior Manager of Transportation Operations, as per the City of Fort Collins. Reed emphasized that the project not only highlights the snowplow team's dedication but also educates the younger members of the community about crucial city services.
With winter approaching, the Fort Collins community can expect to see the Frost Fleet trucks, bearing their creative monikers, on the front lines against the seasonal snowfall. It's a unique way to make a connection between citizens, especially children, and the often invisible labor that goes into maintaining municipal operations during extreme weather. The City of Fort Collins anticipates that through the Frost Fleet, the public will gain a better appreciation of the work carried out by snow plow operators in the increasingly challenging conditions that winter brings.
