News | Port St. Lucie

Delray Beach Pride Mural Painted Over by FDOT Amid Statewide Directive

September 9, 2025
8:05 pm

The Delray Beach Pride mural was painted over by the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) early Tuesday morning, according to city officials. The removal of the Pride mural comes amid a statewide directive from FDOT targeting road murals and street art on public roadways, a move that echoes recent FDOT safety and compliance initiatives across Florida.

FDOT Removes Delray Beach Pride Mural Overnight

According to City of Delray Beach officials, FDOT crews arrived at the intersection of Northeast First Street and Northeast Second Avenue around 2:30 a.m. on September 9, 2025. Florida Highway Patrol troopers were present as the mural, which featured rainbow colors symbolizing LGBTQ+ pride, was covered with black paint.

The action follows months of communication between the city and FDOT regarding the mural’s compliance with state and federal roadway standards. The removal was conducted less than 12 hours after Delray Beach received a formal order from FDOT instructing the city to eliminate the mural.

Statewide Ban on Roadway Murals and Street Art

FDOT has implemented a policy prohibiting road surface markings associated with social, political, or ideological images. According to a memorandum issued in June 2025, such markings are not allowed on state-maintained roads and crosswalks.

This policy has led to similar removals in other Florida cities. In late August, the rainbow crosswalk at Orlando’s Pulse Memorial was painted over. On the same night as the Delray Beach removal, a mural in Key West was also covered by FDOT crews, reflecting a broader trend affecting public spaces and even local amenities such as Fort Pierce’s beach park paid parking plans that underscore changing approaches to public area management.

FDOT’s Official Order and Legal Basis

The final order sent to Delray Beach on September 8, 2025, directed city officials to remove the Pride mural. According to FDOT, the agency was not required to hold a formal hearing before issuing the order, citing a state statute focused on investigating noncompliance with federal and state standards.

The order referenced municipal authority, stating, “Municipalities may place and maintain such traffic control devices which conform to the manual and specifications of the DOT upon all streets and highways under their original jurisdiction as they shall deem necessary to indicate and to carry out the provisions of this chapter or to regulate, warn or guide traffic.”

Delray Beach Officials Respond to FDOT Action

The City of Delray Beach released a statement on Tuesday morning condemning the removal. The statement said, “Before dawn on September 9, 2025, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) unilaterally removed the Delray Beach Pride Intersection. Less than 12 hours before, the City of Delray Beach received an order directing the CITY to remove this symbol of inclusion.”

City officials expressed concern that FDOT’s immediate action did not allow the city commission to review the order or determine an official response. The statement continued, “By acting outside of its process, FDOT disregarded the City’s good-faith efforts to follow established procedures. While FDOT’s action cannot be undone, Delray Beach remains steadfast in its commitment to unity, respect, and the fundamental human rights that belong to every member of our community.”

Community and Advocacy Group Reactions

Local advocacy groups and residents reacted swiftly to the mural’s removal. Rand Hoch, President and Founder of the Palm Beach County Human Rights Council, criticized the state’s decision, stating, “Clearly Governor Ron DeSantis has no respect for the due process requirements of the Florida and U.S. Constitutions. He is making a mockery of the rule of law.”

Several South Florida cities, including Delray Beach, have joined legal efforts to challenge the state’s directive on crosswalk and roadway art. The issue remains the subject of ongoing debate and possible litigation, similar to recent community advocacy seen when Port St. Lucie residents advocated for a manatee protection zone in the C-24 Canal.

Background: Delray Beach Pride Mural and State Policy

The Delray Beach Pride mural was installed at a prominent downtown intersection as a symbol of inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community. It became a focal point for both celebration and controversy as FDOT began enforcing stricter guidelines on road markings.

According to FDOT, the policy change is intended to ensure that all road surface markings meet uniform standards for traffic control and safety. Officials reported that noncompliant markings could jeopardize federal funding or create confusion for motorists.

Other Florida Cities Affected

Orlando: The rainbow crosswalk at the Pulse Memorial was removed in August 2025.
Key West: A similar mural was painted over on September 9, 2025.
Legal Challenges: Multiple municipalities are considering or pursuing legal action regarding the new FDOT policy.

Ongoing Investigation and Future Actions

FDOT has not yet released a public statement regarding the removal of the Delray Beach Pride mural. WPTV and other news outlets have requested comment from the agency. Details may be updated as the investigation continues and as city officials consider their next steps.

The situation remains dynamic, with further developments possible as legal challenges proceed and additional cities respond to the statewide directive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Delray Beach Pride Mural

What is the Delray Beach Pride mural?

The Delray Beach Pride mural was a rainbow-colored street mural at the intersection of Northeast First Street and Northeast Second Avenue. It was created as a symbol of inclusion and support for the LGBTQ+ community in Delray Beach.

Why did FDOT remove the Delray Beach Pride mural?

According to FDOT, the mural was removed to comply with state and federal regulations that prohibit social, political, or ideological images on roadways. The agency cited safety and uniformity standards for traffic control devices.

Are other Florida cities affected by the FDOT mural policy?

Yes, other cities like Orlando and Key West have also had Pride murals or crosswalks removed by FDOT under the same policy. Several municipalities are considering legal action in response.

Can Delray Beach restore the Pride mural?

Currently, restoring the mural is not permitted under FDOT’s policy. The city may challenge the decision legally, but any restoration would require state approval or a change in regulations.