Houston, TX — A powerful symbol of Houston’s LGBTQ+ history is at risk of disappearing from Montrose streets following a new directive from Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has ordered the removal of rainbow-painted crosswalks across the state.
Citing concerns over traffic safety and compliance with federal roadway standards, Abbott’s administration has instructed cities, including Houston, to eliminate what he calls “non-standard” and “distracting” road markings. Cities that do not comply could face the loss of federal transportation funding.
A Symbol of Pride — and Safety
The rainbow crosswalks at the intersection of Westheimer and Taft were first installed in 2017 with private donations through Pride Houston. The project was more than decorative: it honored Montrose’s role as the heart of Houston’s LGBTQ+ community and memorialized Alex Hill, a young man who died in a hit-and-run at the same intersection in 2016.
For nearly a decade, the crosswalk has stood as both a tribute and a promise of visibility, inclusion, and remembrance. It was the first rainbow crosswalk in Texas and one of the few in the South.
A Growing Political Flashpoint
This month, Governor Abbott’s office issued a directive aimed at removing “political ideologies” from public roadways. The order specifically targets painted crosswalks, murals, or markings deemed outside the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the federal standard for road signs and markings.
The decision follows a broader political trend targeting LGBTQ+ visibility in public spaces, and it has sparked backlash from local officials, community leaders, and advocates.
“This is about more than paint,” said a Montrose resident during a recent city meeting. “It’s about identity, history, and being seen.”
Houston’s Response
Earlier this year, Houston briefly removed the rainbow colors during repaving of Westheimer as part of a scheduled METRO BOOST 82 project. But city leaders, including Council Member Abbie Kamin, had committed to repainting the crosswalk — potentially updating it with the Progress Pride flag colors.
Now, with the Governor’s threat of withholding funds, that plan is uncertain.
While some cities like Austin are signaling compliance, others like San Antonio are reportedly seeking exemptions. In Houston, conversations are ongoing as local officials weigh legal options and community input.
What’s Next?
Cities have been given 30 days to respond. In the meantime, residents and advocacy groups are organizing to protect the Montrose crosswalk and what it represents.
Community members are planning events and campaigns to raise awareness, with hashtags like #SaveTheCrosswalk gaining traction online.
Why It Matters
This issue reaches beyond a single intersection. For many Houstonians, the Montrose rainbow crosswalk is a vibrant declaration that all people — regardless of who they love or how they identify — belong.
Whether it stays or goes may come down to more than policy — it may come down to people standing up for the spaces and symbols that matter.
Stay with us for updates as this story develops.
Have thoughts to share about the crosswalk? Email your comments or photos to [your email address], or tag us on social media with #SaveTheCrosswalk.
