San Antonio’s rainbow crosswalk faces removal after a state directive, but LGBTQ+ advocates say their push for visible representation isn’t over.
SAN ANTONIO — The future of San Antonio’s rainbow crosswalk remains uncertain after the state ordered the pride symbol removed from city streets, but local advocates say their fight for representation is far from over.
Pride San Antonio says it continues to maintain the rainbow crosswalk near Evergreen Street and Main Avenue, even as the city prepares to comply with the state’s order. Crews will be cleaning the crosswalk Tuesday morning, part of what the organization says is a routine effort every few weeks.
The dispute began after Greg Abbott directed Texas Department of Transportation to remove what he described as political ideology from Texas roadways. The City of San Antonio appealed the directive, but that appeal was ultimately denied.
While the state has ordered the removal of the rainbow crosswalk, city leaders say there is no specific deadline for when it must be taken out. Mayor Ron Nirenberg has said the city plans to move quickly to comply.
Despite that, Pride San Antonio says it is not backing down and remains committed to preserving visible LGBTQ+ representation in the area.
City leaders told KENS 5 they are exploring plans to repaint nearby sidewalks in pride flag colors as an alternative form of representation. A timeline for that work has not yet been announced.
For now, advocates say they will continue maintaining the crosswalk while the city determines its next steps.