The Florida Department of Transportation has begun removing colorful crosswalks in South Florida cities, including Delray Beach, Key West and Miami Beach , saying they are distractions and safety hazards.

The crosswalks, widely seen as symbols of inclusion and belonging, were painted over during overnight operations.

Delray Beach officials said they received a last-minute order to remove their rainbow crosswalk. Key West Commissioner Sam Kaufman said the department's actions show how serious the state is about eliminating the designs.

"Anyone who thought that the state of Florida or the Department of Transportation was not serious about this, I think that their actions speak very loudly," Kaufman said.

He added that residents in Key West woke up to find the rainbow crosswalk bl

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