As part of training for the upcoming winter season, the City of Hilliard’s Public Service Department participated in an internal competition this week to test their snowplow-maneuvering skills.
The Snow Roadeo course consisted of a series of challenges designed to simulate real-world scenarios, including avoiding mailboxes, turning and reversing through tight corners, and plow-maneuvering precision while operating a 2.5-ton truck.
Drivers were graded on their ability to complete each challenge, scored on a 100-point scale.
This year’s top three drivers were John Carter, Matthew Dickman, and Austin Swearingen. As Hilliard’s top driver, Carter will head to APWA’s Central Ohio Roadeo this November to compete against other top drivers from counties, municipalities, and townships in the area.
City staff from all departments assisted with judging and scoring, as well as cheered on the drivers.
While all in good fun, this competition prepares our crew for encounters they may face out on the road this winter and teaches them how to overcome those challenges safely and efficiently, said Operations Administrator Danielle Garwood.
“It’s more than just a friendly competition. The Snow Roadeo gives our maintenance technicians hands-on training with equipment in scenarios that simulate real-life obstacles they face during snowstorms,” she said. “It also allows us to identify training needs in a controlled setting while reinforcing safe operating procedures.”
“Most importantly,” she added, “we want to ensure our crews are confident, capable, and fully prepared to respond when severe winter weather hits.”
Snow plowing will begin once the first snow falls. In preparation for the upcoming season, residents are reminded to use caution when driving near a snowplow and to never pass a plow.
Once the season begins, track residents can track the Hilliard Snow Warriors online using SnowPaths. The website will show the location, direction, and plow and spreader status in real time.
Some trucks even sport fun, community-chosen names such Truck Norris, Luke Snowwalker, Olaf, and Buzz Iceclear.
All City of Hilliard streets receive snow removal service according to priorities that have been established based on traffic volumes and speeds. Learn more on our Winter Weather webpage here: SnowPaths Fleet Tracking | City of Hilliard
