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Revolution 93.5 – MIAMI WZFL - SOUTH FLORIDA
Iconic rainbow crosswalk removed without notice during LGBTQ History Month
Miami Beach residents woke up Monday to find the iconic rainbow crosswalk on Ocean Drive completely gone. Florida Department of Transportation workers removed the LGBTQ+ landmark Sunday night, replacing colorful pavers with black asphalt during LGBTQ History Month.
The removal came without notice to city officials, just days after Miami Beach lost its legal appeal to save the crosswalk.
What Was Lost
The rainbow crosswalk at Ocean Drive and 12th Street was installed in 2018 with Art Deco-style multicolored pavers. For seven years, it served as a beloved symbol for LGBTQ+ tourists and residents visiting South Beach.
• Installed: 2018
• Safety record: 50% fewer crashes than nearby intersections
• Part of statewide removal: 400+ locations targeted
Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation in June 2025 allowing the state to withhold funds from cities with non-compliant street art. The Florida Department of Transportation labeled rainbow crosswalks as “political messaging” and safety hazards, despite evidence showing they actually improved pedestrian safety.
Similar crosswalks have been removed across Florida, including near Orlando’s Pulse Nightclub memorial.
Community Reaction
Commissioner Alex Fernandez, Miami Beach’s only openly gay official, called the timing “particularly cruel” during LGBTQ History Month.
Andrew Becerra (resident): “These colors were never just paint. They represented visibility and acceptance.”
Protesters gathered during the removal holding “Miami Beach Forever Proud” signs. The community organized the “Forever Proud March” in August with hundreds participating.
What’s Next
Miami Beach officials preserved all removed materials for potential future use. Commissioner Fernandez proposes renaming the intersection “Pride Street” as a permanent designation that’s harder for the state to remove.
Community leaders are focusing on voter registration and political action. As one drag performer stated: “They can erase the colors off the streets, but they can never take the colors out of the people.”
Bigger Picture
The removal is part of broader DeSantis administration policies targeting LGBTQ+ communities, including “Don’t Say Gay” legislation and restrictions on gender-affirming care.
Tourism industry observers worry about Florida’s appeal to LGBTQ+ travelers, who represent a significant economic market for Miami Beach.
While the physical crosswalk is gone, the community’s determination to maintain LGBTQ+ visibility through alternative means ensures the fight for inclusion continues. The preserved rainbow pavers may find new life in future community projects, keeping the symbol’s spirit alive.
