The Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) recently tore up the LGBT crosswalk on Miami Beach — a move that comes as the state removes political art from the streets across the state.
Video shows the crosswalk being removed from the Ocean Drive Entertainment District — a process that began over the weekend. ABC News notes that this process began “just two days after Miami Beach officials learned they had lost their appeal of the state order.”
“On Monday, the intersection was paved in asphalt,” the outlet reported.
Again, some leftists are mourning the removal of LGBT street art. Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernandez, for example, said the crosswalk honored the LGBT community because it represented “decades of people who have endured housing discrimination, military expulsion, workplace discrimination, the stigma of HIV and AIDS, the fight for marriage equality, all the tough fights that have been part of the community.” of LGBTQ.
It comes on the heels of the elimination of the rainbow crosswalk outside the Pulse nightclub in Orlando — another decision that generated controversy and buzz. However, all of these actions come as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Republicans follow through on their plan to keep the roads distracted.
Additionally, a July memo issued by Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy asked states to participate in a highway safety initiative that included keeping intersections and crosswalks distraction-free.
Duffy’s letter reads in part: “The Safe Roads National Initiative will focus on your state’s non-free arterial roads, including safety and operation at intersections and along segments, consistent and recognizable traffic control devices, including cross and intersection markings, and orderly use of the right that is kept free from distractions.”
He continued:
We’re getting back to basics – using data to guide decision-making and prioritize investments that reduce distraction while improving mobility and safety for all road users. Within 60 days, I request that your State DOT, in coordination with your metropolitan planning organizations, use available safety data, analytics, and assessments to develop a list of arterial segments, including intersections, with the greatest safety, operational, or compliance issues that will be addressed by the end of 2026.
DeSantis addressed the backlash in August, making clear that “we will not allow our state roads to be commandeered for political purposes.”
