Florida cities race to save rainbow crosswalks as the state's deadlines for removal loom

Published: Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 12:00 am

Florida Cities Face Deadline to Remove Rainbow Crosswalks

Several Florida cities are scrambling to comply with state orders to remove rainbow crosswalks, facing potential loss of state funding if they fail to meet the deadlines. The state's directive, which targets brightly colored street crossings often used to celebrate LGBTQ pride, is part of a broader effort to ensure roadways are used solely for safety purposes and not for social or political expression.

Miami Beach, among other cities, has been given a deadline of early next month to remove its rainbow crosswalks. Local officials, like Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernandez, are pushing back, viewing the crosswalks as symbols of inclusivity and safety for the LGBTQ community and the broader public. Fernandez plans to explore the possibility of an appeal.

The state's actions follow a July directive from the U.S. Transportation Secretary, who instructed U.S. governors to identify road safety improvements. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has been the first to aggressively implement this guidance, stating that state roads will not be used for political purposes. The Florida Department of Transportation has echoed this sentiment, emphasizing its duty to ensure the safety and consistency of public roadways.

The removal of these crosswalks has sparked controversy, with some critics, like Rand Hoch of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, accusing the state of an anti-LGBTQ agenda and accusing the state of blackmailing municipalities. The removal of a rainbow-colored crossing marking the 2016 Pulse Nightclub massacre in Orlando, has further fueled the debate.

While the issue is primarily concentrated in Florida, the state's actions are seen as part of a larger trend in the ongoing culture wars.

BNN's Perspective:

The debate over rainbow crosswalks highlights the tension between promoting inclusivity and maintaining a focus on road safety. While the intent behind these colorful displays is admirable, the state's concern for uniform road markings is also valid. Finding a balance that respects both values is crucial.

Keywords: rainbow crosswalks, Florida, LGBTQ, road safety, Ron DeSantis, Miami Beach, state funding, transportation, inclusivity, culture wars

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