An Atlanta group that seeks to promote diversity through public art is upset that the city will only allow temporary placement of a “rainbow” crosswalk at the corner of 10th St. and Piedmont Ave. rather than a permanent marking, Georgia Voice reported.
According to a letter dated Sept. 15 from a city official that was released by The Atlanta Rainbow Crosswalks, the display, which was to be installed in time for Atlanta Pride weekend starting Oct. 9, must be removed by Oct. 16. It can be in place starting Oct. 3.
The group said the city had rescinded the original commitment, approved in August for a permanent installation in the Midtown neighborhood.
The group included in its release a letter from Robert Mendoza, commissioner of public works, that says the city receives multiple requests for artwork on city streets and that the city needs to develop a more permanent policy for reasons of public safety. It says the department then “… will be happy to work with you on a permanent facility for this location.”
The group’s president, Robert Sepulveda Jr., said in the statement: “This is a frustrating turn of events for all of us … Unfortunately, the only option now is to have them painted temporarily for Pride, enjoy them and continue to work with the city on a permanent solution.”
About the Author
