Miami Beach Builds New Rainbow Crosswalk in Park After State Ban

Miami Beach found a creative way to keep celebrating LGBTQ+ community members after the state banned Pride crosswalks. The city moved their rainbow crosswalk from Ocean Drive to Lummus Park, creating a permanent display that honors our community's values.

In August, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered the removal of about 400 rainbow crosswalks and murals across the state. This included Miami Beach's crosswalk at Ocean Drive and 12th Street. The state painted over these displays even though they had received approval when first installed.

Miami Beach refused to let this setback end their celebration of LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. The city commission allocated $120,000 from their 2025 budget surplus to recreate the crosswalk in Lummus Park. The new display uses 3,606 colorful pavers designed by Savino Miller Design Studio. Workers will place each paver brick-by-brick to rebuild the rainbow pattern.

Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez, the only openly gay member of the city commission, praised his colleagues for their support. "When the State forcibly removed this crosswalk, it was our straight allies on the Miami Beach City Commission who ensured our gay community would not be pushed into the shadows," he said.

The new rainbow display will be unveiled during Miami Beach's 18th annual Pride celebration in April. This permanent installation shows how our communities can adapt and find new ways to celebrate when faced with restrictions.