UPDATE: Lubbock city officials have announced the imminent removal of the beloved Buddy Holly glasses crosswalks, following a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) directive. This decision, confirmed during a city council meeting on November 11, 2023, stems from a state mandate that prohibits decorative artwork on roadways, compelling immediate action.
The TxDOT issued a letter on October 8, 2023, demanding that all cities eliminate prohibited markings within just 30 days or face severe consequences, including potential withholding of state and federal road funding. Lubbock’s Interim Director of Public Works, David Bragg, clarified that the directive aligns with a federal safety initiative requiring all roadway markings to be traffic-related only.
“The state and federal mandates are saying that we cannot have any artwork on the roadways,” Bragg stated, highlighting the urgency of compliance to avoid funding losses.
This directive is part of a national effort led by U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy, under the SAFE ROADS initiative, aimed at reducing distractions on high-fatality roads. Secretary Duffy emphasized,
“Roads are for safety, not political messages or artwork.”
His call for action extends to governors, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who reinforced this stance in his own directives to TxDOT.
Lubbock officials, understanding the gravity of the situation, have committed to the removal of three decorative crosswalks, including the iconic Buddy Holly glasses installed in 2020. The other two designs, Polka Dots and Mesquite Motif, were added in 2021 and 2023, respectively. Mayor Pro Tem Christy Martinez-Garcia expressed regret, stating,
“It’s so unfortunate because it’s such a tasteful cross-section and people like it.”
The removal will take place gradually over the next year, integrated into routine street maintenance to minimize costs for Lubbock. The city has notified TxDOT of its compliance, ensuring that the removal only affects public streets and will not impact artistic markings on private property.
The news of this removal hits particularly hard for fans of the late Buddy Holly, a local legend who was born in Lubbock in 1936. His legacy, celebrated through the Buddy Holly Center, has attracted countless visitors and is a significant part of the city’s cultural identity. The center houses a comprehensive collection of memorabilia and honors Holly’s contributions to music.
As Lubbock prepares for this significant change, residents and fans alike are left to ponder the loss of a cherished landmark. The removal of the Buddy Holly glasses crosswalk serves as a stark reminder of the balancing act between safety regulations and preserving local culture.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
