Delray Beach, FL – A colorful intersection at Atlantic Avenue and Northeast Second Avenue has become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing tug-of-war between state oversight and local identity. Earlier this month, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) ordered Delray Beach to remove its Pride crosswalk by September 3, citing federal roadway standards.
But the directive has sparked a groundswell of community pushback. On Monday night, Delray Beach’s City Commission chambers overflowed with residents and supporters — some traveling from as far south as Pembroke Pines and north to Jupiter — urging city leaders to stand their ground.
“It was a very emotional night,” said community forum moderator Gregg Weiss, who noted that despite dissent from one commissioner, the majority of the City Commission agreed to pursue FDOT’s offered option: an administrative hearing scheduled for September. This process will give Delray Beach the opportunity to argue why the crosswalk should remain as is.
A Symbol of Inclusion — or Division?
For many in Delray Beach, the rainbow-colored crosswalk has become a point of civic pride. Supporters describe it as a vibrant reminder of inclusivity, diversity, and the city’s reputation as an “All-American City.”
“I couldn’t be more happy hearing this news,” said Megan Richards, a Delray resident, taxpayer, and business owner. “Democracy at work.”
Others shared more personal reflections. One resident, Keith Hartley, said the mural serves as a beacon of acceptance for LGBTQ youth. “If little things like this existed back when I was a kid, I don’t think I would have held in such self-loathing. If this mural has helped even one person feel self-love, it’s worth it.”
Still, not all comments were celebratory. Critics questioned whether city politics should prioritize symbolic gestures over pressing issues like police staffing shortages and contract negotiations. “Did the same amount of people come out for the police contract negotiations?” one resident asked, noting Delray Beach police are reportedly down more than 25 officers.
Others raised the issue of fairness. “Are we going to have a law-enforcement appreciation square? A military appreciation square? A God Bless the USA square?” asked another commenter. Some suggested putting the matter to a citywide vote.
City Leaders Push Back Against “Overreach”
While opinions differ, one theme united many voices Monday night: resistance to outside interference.
“If a tiny beach town wants a rainbow crosswalk, how could you possibly support larger state government stepping in and trying to force the city to go against the wishes of the majority of constituents?” asked one forum participant. “Sounds like big government plain and simple.”
Commissioner Rob Long, praised by attendees for “spearheading” the fight, and his colleagues now face the task of preparing for the September administrative hearing. The outcome will determine whether the Pride crosswalk remains in its current form — or is painted over in compliance with FDOT standards.
With just weeks before the FDOT deadline, all eyes are on Delray Beach City Hall. Supporters promise to continue showing up in force, while critics call for balance and broader community input.
Regardless of the outcome, the debate has already made one thing clear: in Delray Beach, even a painted crosswalk can become a powerful symbol of identity, unity, and democracy in action.