JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A project that added rainbow crosswalks to the streets of Five Points in Riverside was completed this week.
Why was Five Points chosen for a rainbow road mural? Jacksonville Instagram blog account Cre8Jax says the area's LGBTQ+ history made it an obvious choice.
"Willowbranch Park & Library is where the Pride movement began in Jax," Cre8Jax posted. "JASMYN is headquartered just a block away from the skatepark, and the annual River City Pride parade also runs through 5 Points."
Riverside Avondale Preservation (RAP) said the rainbow crosswalks "aim to secure this place in our community to welcome and uplift anyone who needs it."
“The rainbow crosswalks serve as a powerful form of placemaking, transforming a neighborhood street into a symbol of inclusion and community pride," RAP's Kandice Clark said. "By spearheading this project, we are enhancing the visual landscape and sending a clear message of acceptance. I am proud to be a part of this initiative, which celebrates our commitment to creating welcoming spaces for all!”
RAP said the project was endorsed by Jacksonville Councilman Jimmy Peluso, attributing the following quote to him:
“This project is a meaningful and beautiful addition to our streets. I encourage all members of our community to support this initiative and join us in celebrating diversity and love through this symbolic art installation.”
The project was also endorsed by Five Points Merchant Association and the AIDS Memorial Project of Northeast Florida, RAP said.
The mural was painted by HeartspaceArt, a team of artists based in Jacksonville.
