Texas Gov. Abbott Orders Cities to Remove Rainbow Crosswalks or Lose Funding

On Wednesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a warning regarding state road funding, indicating that cities and counties could face financial repercussions if they do not eliminate what he described as “political ideologies” from public streets. The list includes the rainbow crosswalks found in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.

Abbott has issued an order that mandates the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to implement a statewide prohibition on any symbols, flags, or markings that express social or political messages on roadways. “Texans anticipate that their taxpayer funds will be utilized judiciously, rather than to promote political objectives on the roads of Texas,” Abbott stated. “Ensuring the safety and focus of Texans on the road requires us to uphold a reliable and uniform transportation system throughout Texas.”

A recent directive has emerged in response to a letter from U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, who, during the summer, called on governors to participate in a federal initiative aimed at eliminating artwork and political messages from roadways. “Taxpayers anticipate their contributions to support secure streets, rather than colorful crosswalks,” Duffy expressed on X.

In a recent communication to cities and counties, TxDOT elaborated on Governor Abbott's directive, stating that “pavement markings such as decorative crosswalks, murals, or markings conveying artwork or other messages are prohibited” unless they fulfill a direct safety purpose. Cities face a critical deadline of 30 days to meet compliance requirements, or they may encounter the consequences of funding being withheld and state agreements being put on hold. Exceptions could be allowed in cases where there is a clear public safety advantage or a strong rationale presented.

Houston’s Metro announced plans to re-stripe the intersection of Westheimer and Taft in order to meet federal standards. “We understand the importance of this crosswalk to the community,” the agency stated in an email, “but in light of the recent directive, we will adhere to the order.” Earlier this month, the city completed the repainting of the vibrant rainbow crosswalks following recent construction activities.

Houston Council Member Abbie Kamin expressed strong disapproval of Abbott’s action, asserting that he possessed “no legal right to interfere with the people of Houston.” She characterized the action as a diversion from the “genuine issues that require authentic leadership.”

In 2017, the crosswalks of Montrose in Houston were painted as a tribute to Alex Hill, who tragically lost his life in a hit-and-run incident in 2016. The $15,000 initiative, backed by Pride Houston, has emerged as Texas’ inaugural Pride crosswalk, now positioned at the heart of an escalating national debate surrounding color, culture, and the governance of public spaces.

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