Texas Officials Defy Governor's Order to Remove Rainbow Crosswalks

Governor's Directive Sparks Outrage

• 😡 City and state officials gathered to express anger and frustration over Governor Greg Abbott's directive to remove Montrose's rainbow crosswalks.
• 🗣️ Council member Abby Cayman called the governor's order an overreach of power.

Safety Concerns vs. Political Motives

• ⚠️ Governor Abbott cited safety concerns and a federal advisory urging the removal of political markings from roadways.
• 🎨 Critics argue the directive is political, not safety-driven, especially since the crosswalk was recently repainted.
• 💸 Officials claim the governor is wasting time on paint colors while Texans face economic hardships like rising prices and healthcare coverage loss.

History and Community Support

• 💖 The rainbow crosswalk was first painted in 2017 in memory of Alex Hill, a community member who died at the intersection.
• 🌟 Funded by private donations, it was the first rainbow crosswalk in Texas.
• ✊ Community members are actively protesting and showing their support to prevent the crosswalk's removal.

Next Steps and Legal Avenues

• ⏳ Metro has approximately 30 days to comply with the governor's directive.
• ⚖️ City and state officials are exploring legal action and other avenues to challenge the order.