UPDATE: Lubbock city officials have confirmed the removal of the beloved Buddy Holly-themed crosswalks following a stringent mandate from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). This decision comes in light of a October 8, 2023 directive enforcing federal roadway standards that strictly prohibit artwork and non-traffic-related markings on public streets.
During a City Council work session on November 11, 2023, Lubbock’s Interim Director of Public Works, David Bragg, revealed the urgency behind this mandate. “The state and federal mandates are saying that we cannot have any artwork on the roadways,” Bragg stated. This move is aimed at avoiding the potential withholding of state and federal road funding, a serious financial concern for the city.
The TxDOT’s directive is part of a national initiative led by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, who emphasized the need for safer roadways. “Roads are for safety, not political messages or artwork,” Duffy stated in a letter addressed to governors, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Abbott echoed these sentiments, stating, “Any city that refuses to comply… will face consequences, including the withholding of funding.”
The removal will affect three decorative crosswalks in Lubbock, including the iconic Buddy Holly glasses, which was installed in 2020 near the Buddy Holly Center. The other two designs, featuring polka dots and a mesquite motif, were installed in 2021 and 2023, respectively. Mayor Pro Tem Christy Martinez-Garcia expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s so unfortunate because it’s such a tasteful cross-section and people like it.”
City officials have already notified the state about the removal plan, which will be phased in over the next year. This approach aims to minimize costs while ensuring compliance with state mandates. The city manager confirmed that this order only applies to public streets and will not impact artistic markings on private property.
The Buddy Holly crosswalks were more than just designs; they held significant emotional value for the community. Buddy Holly, a legendary musician born in Lubbock, is celebrated worldwide, and the crosswalks served as a tribute to his legacy.
Residents and fans of Buddy Holly are left to grapple with the loss of these unique symbols of local pride. The city is now prioritizing adherence to federal standards over aesthetic expressions that have become integral to Lubbock’s identity.
As Lubbock prepares for these changes, the focus remains on compliance and safety. The broader implications of these actions could reverberate across Texas, as cities confront similar mandates that strip away artistic elements from roadways. The community now watches closely to see how the removal will unfold and what it means for the future of artistic expression in public spaces.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
