State Law Leads to Removal of Sidewalk Murals in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts and Across Florida
Bradenton, FL – Sidewalk murals in Bradenton’s Village of the Arts are being removed as part of a statewide crackdown on pavement art, following new legislation that requires uniformity in all roadway and sidewalk markings.
The removals stem from Senate Bill 1662, passed earlier this year, which directs the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to enforce compliance with the state’s Design Manual and the federal Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). FDOT’s June 30, 2025, memorandum made clear that cities must eliminate nonstandard markings—including painted crosswalks, sidewalks, and street art—or risk losing state transportation funding.
For the Village of the Arts, known for its colorful displays of creativity, the order marks a significant loss. The district’s sidewalk murals, painted by local artists to enhance the neighborhood’s unique character, are now classified as noncompliant under state law.
A Statewide Impact
Bradenton’s Village of the Arts
Bradenton officials ordered the murals removed to ensure compliance and protect funding for local road and infrastructure projects. The community now faces the disappearance of one of its most recognizable artistic features.Tampa
Officials have been directed to take down more than 40 painted crosswalks and sidewalk murals, including rainbow-colored art that symbolized inclusivity. The city said it had no choice but to comply with FDOT’s mandate.St. Petersburg
Five major installations—including Black History and Pride-themed crosswalks—are slated for removal. Local leaders pushed back but ultimately confirmed they will comply to avoid risking millions in state funding.Orlando
The city removed its rainbow crosswalk near the Pulse nightclub memorial in July 2025. The removal occurred overnight and drew public outcry from community members and survivors, but officials cited the state directive as the reason.
Cultural Cost
While the legislation aims to ensure traffic safety and consistency, communities across Florida are grappling with the cultural toll. In Bradenton’s Village of the Arts, the removal threatens the neighborhood’s creative identity. In Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Orlando, the loss of iconic public artworks has sparked frustration among residents who saw the murals as symbols of community pride and resilience.
As enforcement continues statewide, Florida’s cities face the challenge of balancing compliance with state law against the cultural value of public art that has long distinguished their neighborhoods.
