Dallas, January 20, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has mandated that Dallas remove its decorative crosswalks by January 31, 2026, following Governor Greg Abbott’s directive. With possible financial repercussions at stake, the city is formulating a response against the removal order, which critics argue undermines community identity. The removal order targets designs like rainbow and Black Lives Matter crosswalks, claiming these can distract drivers and compromise road safety.
Dallas, Texas Faces Deadline to Remove Decorative Crosswalks
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has denied Dallas’ appeal to retain its decorative crosswalks, including rainbow and Black Lives Matter designs, and has set a deadline for their removal by January 31, 2026. Failure to comply may result in the withholding of state and federal transportation funds.
The determination by TxDOT, issued in a formal notice on January 19, 2026, emphasized the violations of state standards that typically only allow plain white lines for crosswalks. The City Manager, Kimberly Bizor Tolbert, expressed concern over the lack of clarity from TxDOT regarding how these artistic designs interfere with safety. She indicated that the city will collaborate with the City Attorney’s Office to formulate a response to the notice.
Background of the Dispute
The conflict regarding the crosswalk designs escalated in October 2025 when Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed cities statewide to remove non-standard road markings, specifically aimed at rainbow designs. This directive aligned with a broader federal initiative aimed at standardizing road markings to enhance safety measures. Supporters of decorative crosswalks contend that these designs symbolize community identity rather than posing safety risks.
City’s Response and Future Steps
In November 2025, Dallas formally requested an exemption, arguing that no evidence had been presented to indicate that the artistic crosswalks compromise traffic safety. The city also noted that the removal of these designs could financially burden taxpayers and diminish valued community symbols. However, with TxDOT’s firm rejection of this appeal, Dallas now faces a challenging timeline to comply with state regulations.
Potential Impacts of Non-Compliance
Failure to meet the compliance deadline could have significant repercussions for Dallas, including the potential withholding of vital state and federal transportation funds. Additionally, TxDOT has warned that non-compliance might lead to a suspension of agreements currently in place between the state and the city, further complicating Dallas’s transportation planning and funding prospects.
Significance of Decorative Crosswalks
Many in Dallas regard these decorative crosswalks as more than just art; they serve as powerful symbols of community identity and pride, especially within marginalized groups such as the LGBTQ and Black communities. The pushback against removing these designs highlights the tension between safety regulations and community expression—a classic debate in urban planning reflecting broader societal values.
Key Features of the Situation:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline for Compliance | January 31, 2026 |
| Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance | Withholding of state and federal transportation funds, suspension of agreements between TxDOT and Dallas |
| City’s Response | Working with the City Attorney’s Office on a response |
| Background | Governor Greg Abbott’s October 2025 directive to remove decorative crosswalks as part of a federal initiative to standardize road markings for safety |
| Significance of Decorative Crosswalks | Expressions of community identity and pride, particularly within the LGBTQ and Black communities in Dallas |
Conclusion
As Dallas navigates this complex issue of decorative crosswalks, the focus remains on the importance of community identity while adhering to state regulations. The decision to remove these artistic symbols raises questions about the balance between safety and cultural expression. For the local economy, a compliance failure could undermine critical transportation funding—a vital aspect of ongoing urban development. Residents are encouraged to stay engaged, supporting local initiatives that advocate for community values while fostering a safe and appealing urban environment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Dallas Approves Rainbow Steps at Local Church
Texas Governor Orders Removal of Rainbow Crosswalks in Dallas
Governor Greg Abbott Calls for Removal of Pride Symbols in Texas
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
