Street murals and painted crosswalks around Pompano Beach City Hall were covered in black paint overnight after the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) enforced a new state law banning such artwork on public roadways.

Murals and crosswalks painted over

The department also erased artwork on storm drains, though a few paintings on sidewalks remain.

The city had argued against the removal, but the FDOT did not agree. The murals included bright geometric patterns and depictions of musical instruments.

Artist says his work has disappeared

Bill Savarese, who has been creating street art for decades and painted some of the murals, said he was disheartened by the removal.

"My free expression has vanished into the night," Savarese said.

State defends removal

Gov. Ron DeSantis an

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