Every February, thousands of racing fans pour into Daytona Beach to witness the legendary Daytona 500. And as they cross the street near the Speedway, they walk over something uniquely iconic — checkered-flag crosswalks that celebrate the racing spirit of the city known as the “World Center of Racing.”

But now, those crosswalks are under threat.

The Florida Department of Transportation has ordered that Daytona’s checkered design be painted over as part of a sweeping effort to eliminate artistic street markings statewide. This crackdown — backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis and Donald Trump’s federal transportation leadership — has already led to the removal of rainbow crosswalks honoring the victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting, and it’s targeting everything from “Back the Blue” murals to beautification art in Orlando and Tampa.

FDOT claims that any crosswalk not in compliance with federal standards is a safety hazard. But the truth is: these crosswalks have been in place for years without issue. They’re not confusing to drivers. They’re not political statements. They’re community expressions — tributes to local identity, history, and pride.

The checkered crosswalks aren’t just paint on pavement — they are a visual celebration of Daytona’s racing heritage and a welcoming signal to fans from around the world.

We, the undersigned, are calling on the Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Perdue and Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry to reject this unnecessary removal and protect the city’s right to celebrate its culture. We urge FDOT to grant a waiver or revise its implementation of these new standards so that cities like Daytona can keep beloved symbols of local identity in place.

Street art should not be swept away in the name of conformity. Let’s stand up for the communities who dare to decorate, honor, and remember — and say no to the erasure of Daytona’s checkered legacy.

Add your name if you believe the checkered crosswalks should stay.