Lubbock to erase Buddy Holly’s iconic glasses from beloved crosswalk
Lubbock, Texas, is set to remove a popular Buddy Holly-themed crosswalk near the Buddy Holly Center. The city received a letter from the Texas Department of Transportation, threatening loss of state or federal funding if the crosswalk is not taken down. This move follows similar directives in other cities and is part of a wider effort to remove political symbols or artworks from public streets.
The crosswalk, installed in 2020, features a painted depiction of Buddy Holly's iconic glasses. It has been a beloved landmark for locals and tourists alike, celebrating the city's native son who rose to fame with hits like 'That'll Be the Day' and 'Peggy Sue'. However, Lubbock City Council members have decided to comply with a directive from the United States administration and Republicans, which aims to keep roadways free from distractions.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Department of Transportation to ensure compliance with federal and state guidelines on roadway safety. The removal of the Buddy Holly crosswalk is scheduled to happen during normal maintenance next year. Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer stated that the city has no choice but to comply with the directive, despite the crosswalk's sentimental value.
The removal of the Buddy Holly crosswalk is a result of a broader effort to prohibit symbols conveying social or political messages on public streets. While Lubbock residents may miss the iconic glasses, the city aims to maintain compliance with federal and state guidelines to avoid losing state or federal funding.
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