The phrase “Black History Matters” is prominently displayed on the street outside the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum in St. Petersburg. Additionally, a Progressive Pride Street mural adorns the intersection of Central Avenue and 25th Street.
St. Pete Pride Board President Dr. Byron Green-Calisch doesn’t want to see them removed.
Green-Calisch mentioned, “When we travel internationally, we often search for places flying an American flag to ensure a familiar and welcoming environment. These murals serve a similar purpose.”
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy posted on X, “Taxpayers expect their dollars to fund safe streets, not rainbow crosswalks.”
“I have this conversation over and over again about distraction and ask for any detail, any research that alludes to such,” Green-Calisch said.
Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation informed governors that while traffic fatalities are on a decline, further action is necessary.
State officials have a deadline of Aug. 30 to report intersections with non-standard markings to federal traffic authorities, with those areas requiring correction by Sept. 30, 2026.
“Let’s actually think about what is the reason for doing this and how does it make the lives of Floridians better,” Green-Calisch said.
The Florida Department of Transportation has issued a letter stating that it will cease state funding to local governments that do not follow national protocols and upcoming 2025 state standards, which prohibit social and political messages on public roads and sidewalks.
Tampa has cataloged pavement art throughout the city, including a “Back the Blue” mural close to the downtown police headquarters. However, an official noted that the timeline for their removal is still undetermined.
