San Antonio, December 17, 2025
San Antonio is set to remove its iconic rainbow crosswalks after the Texas Department of Transportation denied the city’s exemption request. Installed in 2018 to show support for the LGBTQ+ community, these crosswalks will be replaced with standard markings by January 2026, following a state directive to eliminate non-standard roadway markings. Despite the removal, the city plans to honor the community by installing rainbow-colored sidewalk treatments nearby, reflecting its continued commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
San Antonio Plans to Remove Rainbow Crosswalks After State Denies Exemption Request
San Antonio, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has denied the City of San Antonio’s request to maintain its rainbow crosswalks, leading the city to plan their removal in early 2026. This decision follows a state mandate requiring the removal of non-standard roadway markings, including those conveying social, political, or ideological messages, such as the rainbow crosswalks in San Antonio’s Pride Cultural Heritage District.
Background on the Rainbow Crosswalks
Installed in 2018 at the intersection of North Main Avenue and East Evergreen Street, the rainbow crosswalks have been a symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community in San Antonio. The installation was funded through a combination of city resources and private donations, with Pride San Antonio contributing $19,832.24 for the project. The crosswalks have been a fixture in the area for over seven years, serving as a visual representation of the city’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
State Mandate and Exemption Request
In October 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed TxDOT to enforce federal and state guidelines that prohibit non-standard surface markings conveying social, political, or ideological messages. This directive was part of a broader initiative to ensure roadway safety by removing distractions. In response, San Antonio officials applied for an exemption, arguing that the crosswalks did not pose a safety risk and had been in place for several years without incident. However, TxDOT denied the exemption request, stating that the city’s submission lacked the necessary documentation to demonstrate compliance with federal traffic safety standards.
City’s Response and Future Plans
Following the denial, San Antonio officials announced plans to remove the rainbow crosswalks and replace them with standard crosswalk markings before January 15, 2026. Despite the removal, the city intends to continue recognizing and supporting the LGBTQ+ community by installing rainbow-colored sidewalk treatments one block north and one block south of the intersection. This approach aims to balance compliance with state regulations while maintaining the community’s visibility and support.
Community Reaction
The decision has sparked discussions within the community. Members of the city’s LGBTQ+ Advisory Board have expressed disappointment over the removal but emphasized the importance of finding alternative ways to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community. The city council and other local leaders are exploring options to ensure that the community’s presence and contributions continue to be recognized in the area.
Implications for Other Texas Cities
San Antonio’s situation reflects a broader trend in Texas, where several cities with rainbow crosswalks are facing similar challenges. For instance, Houston’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO) has already removed its rainbow crosswalk in the Montrose neighborhood to comply with the state mandate. Other cities, such as Dallas and San Marcos, are also grappling with the directive and considering their responses. The situation underscores the tension between state directives and local efforts to express support for the LGBTQ+ community through public art and symbols.
Conclusion
The removal of San Antonio’s rainbow crosswalks marks a significant moment in the city’s history, balancing state regulations with community expression. As the city moves forward, it remains committed to finding meaningful ways to support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that inclusivity and diversity continue to be integral parts of San Antonio’s identity.
FAQ
What are the rainbow crosswalks in San Antonio?
The rainbow crosswalks are painted at the intersection of North Main Avenue and East Evergreen Street in San Antonio’s Pride Cultural Heritage District. Installed in 2018, they serve as a symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community.
Why is San Antonio removing the rainbow crosswalks?
San Antonio is removing the rainbow crosswalks to comply with a state mandate from Governor Greg Abbott, which requires the removal of non-standard roadway markings conveying social, political, or ideological messages. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) denied the city’s request for an exemption, leading to the decision to remove the crosswalks.
When will the rainbow crosswalks be removed?
The city plans to remove the rainbow crosswalks and replace them with standard crosswalk markings before January 15, 2026.
Will the city continue to support the LGBTQ+ community?
Yes, despite the removal of the crosswalks, San Antonio intends to continue recognizing and supporting the LGBTQ+ community by installing rainbow-colored sidewalk treatments one block north and one block south of the intersection.
Are other Texas cities facing similar issues?
Yes, other Texas cities with rainbow crosswalks, such as Houston, Dallas, and San Marcos, are also addressing the state mandate and considering their responses.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Intersection of North Main Avenue and East Evergreen Street in San Antonio’s Pride Cultural Heritage District |
| Installation Year | 2018 |
| Funding | Combination of city resources and private donations, with Pride San Antonio contributing $19,832.24 |
| State Mandate | Governor Greg Abbott’s directive requiring removal of non-standard roadway markings conveying social, political, or ideological messages |
| Exemption Request | Denied by TxDOT due to lack of necessary documentation demonstrating compliance with federal traffic safety standards |
| Removal Plan | Scheduled before January 15, 2026, with replacement by standard crosswalk markings |
| Alternative Support | Installation of rainbow-colored sidewalk treatments one block north and one block south of the intersection |
| Community Reaction | Disappointment expressed, with emphasis on finding alternative ways to honor and support the LGBTQ+ community |
| Other Affected Cities | Houston, Dallas, and San Marcos are also addressing the state mandate regarding rainbow crosswalks |
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