Delray Beach commission votes 3-1 to join petition challenging FDOT action after overnight painting of Pride crosswalk

The Delray Beach City Commission voted 3-1 on Sept. 9 to join petitions by the cities of Miami Beach and Fort Lauderdale asking an administrative law judge to review Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) guidance used to remove a Pride-themed streetscape, and to seek a stay of enforcement that would temporarily halt state action on the site.

The motion, made by Vice Mayor Long and seconded (second not specified in the record), passed with Commissioner Markert and Deputy Vice Mayor Burns joining Long in support and Mayor Carney voting no. The commission also directed that staff not proceed with permanent sandblasting or other removal measures on the intersection while the stay request is pending, citing safety and legal concerns.

Why it matters: The dispute began after FDOT representatives and contractors went to the intersection overnight and painted over the decorative crosswalk the city installed. Commissioners, staff and residents said the incident created a confusing and potentially unsafe condition. Supporters of the crosswalk — installed as a streetscape art project to reflect community values — called the state action an attack on local choice and LGBTQ residents.

City Manager Terrence Moore told commissioners he had been contacted by FDOT district staff shortly before the special meeting…