Dallas, January 21, 2026
The Texas Department of Transportation has ordered Dallas to remove its decorative crosswalks, including rainbow designs, by January 31, 2026, to avoid losing state and federal transportation funding. The state’s rejection of Dallas’s exemption request highlights non-compliance with state standards. Local advocates are concerned that the removal of these crosswalks, which symbolize community identity, could have broader implications for local expression and cultural representation. The city is currently exploring legal options and consulting with attorneys to determine the best path forward before the impending deadline.
Dallas Faces Funding Cuts Over Rainbow Crosswalks
Dallas, Texas – The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has mandated that Dallas remove its decorative crosswalks, including rainbow and Black Lives Matter designs, by January 31, 2026, or risk losing state and federal transportation funding. This directive follows the state’s rejection of Dallas’s exemption request, citing non-compliance with state uniformity standards and the absence of certification from a licensed traffic engineer. Failure to comply could result in the withholding of funds and suspension of agreements between TxDOT and the city.
Background
In October 2025, Governor Greg Abbott ordered Texas cities to remove “political” road markings, including rainbow crosswalks, arguing they violate state standards and could distract drivers. Dallas sought an exemption, emphasizing that the crosswalks were privately funded and posed no safety risk. However, TxDOT denied the request, stating the designs did not meet the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices requirements and lacked proper certification. The city now faces a critical deadline to comply or face significant funding consequences.
Community Response
Local advocates argue that the crosswalks are vital symbols of community identity and inclusion. They express concern over the potential loss of these symbols and the broader implications for local expression. The situation has sparked ongoing debates about the balance between state regulations and local cultural expressions.
Next Steps
Dallas officials are currently consulting with the City Attorney’s Office to determine the best course of action before the January 31 deadline. The city must decide whether to remove the crosswalks, submit a revised exemption request with the required certification, or explore other legal avenues to preserve these community symbols.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Directive Issued | TxDOT mandated removal of decorative crosswalks by January 31, 2026, or risk losing state and federal funding. |
| Reason for Directive | Non-compliance with state uniformity standards and lack of certification from a licensed traffic engineer. |
| Potential Consequences | Withholding of state and federal transportation funding and suspension of agreements between TxDOT and Dallas. |
| Community Response | Advocates express concern over the loss of symbols of community identity and inclusion. |
| City’s Next Steps | Consulting with the City Attorney’s Office to determine the best course of action before the deadline. |
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