The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is proud to bring back the third annual statewide Paint the Plow program to promote safe driving during the snow and ice season. The program timeline, from application opening to deadlines, can be found at the bottom of this page.

Paint the Plow is an opportunity for Kentucky high school students to paint one of our snowplow blades that will be used in their community to keep roadways safe during the winter months. A limited number of snowplow blades are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Faculty may assist in creating the design, but only students should participate in painting the design without alteration.

Entry Guidelines:

2025 PAINT THE PLOW APPLICATION

Each school may submit one application expressing interest by Sept. 12. Click here to apply.
A KYTC representative will follow up to confirm availability and to share information on how to submit your design.

The blade is approximately 12’ wide and 4’ high

The top foot of the blade is blocked from view due to a rubber strip

A draft of the proposed design must be submitted to the Transportation Cabinet for approval.
Once approved, the design may not be modified and a representative will make arrangements with you to drop-off and pick up the plow blade at the school.

Design Guidelines:

Designs and messages should focus on road safety, winter weather, and school/Kentucky spirit

The design can include the school logo and school colors
Consider the following slogans for a safety theme. Other safe driving messages are welcome.

"No Device in Snow & Ice"
"Slow Down when Snows Down"

Use a bright background
The designs must be PG in nature
They will not include political, partisan, violent, or lewd images
No copyright, pop-culture references, movies, songs, celebrities, etc.

Painting Guidelines:

Participants agree to submit photos of their painted plow

Use enamel paints with bright backgrounds
A final clear coat will help extend the life of the painting
No materials other than paint can be applied to the plow blade
Do not paint over reflective or rubber material
Schools are responsible for providing their own paint and supplies
If accommodations are required, once approved to participate, reach out to your district KYTC rep to communicate needs.
Participants agree to submit photos of the plows

Plow Blade Requirements:

A plow blade will be delivered and placed at the location arranged by the school. The location must offer adequate space for a dump truck to drop off and pickup the blade from the same location.
ONLY A KYTC REP SHALL BE PERMITTED TO MOVE THE PLOW BLADE

If it must be moved, the school must contact KYTC. ONLY KYTC staff may move the plow.

To ensure safety, no person should climb, sit, lean, or otherwise apply force to the plow blade.

Timeline:

Application Opens: August 11
Application Deadline: September 12
Design Submission: Once your high school's participation is confirmed by a KYTC rep, submit your proposed design for approval.
Design Deadline: September 26
Blade Drop-off Deadline: Once your design is approved, work with your KYTC contact to schedule a time to deliver the blade to your school.