Five stories that have North Texas talking: Houston painted its crosswalks rainbow; Dallas is trying to desegregate its schools; storms near the Texas coast; and more.
The crosswalks in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood are really hard to miss — and that’s the point.
Crews were out Saturday painting the crosswalks at the intersection of Westheimer Road and Taft Street, and by Sunday morning, people were out taking pictures, the Associated Press reports.
The Rainbow Flag crosswalks are meant to honor Alex Hill, who died from a hit-and-run accident at the intersection in 2016, Houston Public Media reports. It’s also the state of Texas' first Rainbow Flag crossing.
City Councilwoman Ellen Cohen's office coordinated the permits and approvals needed to close the street for the work, and Pride Houston paid the $15,000 cost of the project, according to the Associated Press. Frankie Quijano, president of Pride Houston, tells AP: "All it can do is amplify what Houston is about. We welcome everyone, whatever size, shape color."
Houston’s Pride Festival, which used to be held in Montrose, takes place downtown on Saturday.
- Dallas’ school district is one of the most segregated in the U.S., but it’s also leading in efforts to close the divide. [The New York Times]
- Deep Ellum business owners are considering tighter security measures, like a districtwide closing time, after a woman was recently assaulted. [CBS DFW]
- A tropical storm could hit the Texas coast as early as Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. But, the state isn’t ready for the next big hurricane. [Houston Chronicle, The Texas Tribune]
- For a state travel campaign, former Gov. Rick Perry lists what he likes about Texas with a little help from legendary singer-songwriter Gary P. Nunn. [GuideLive]
The High Five is KERA’s daily roundup of stories from Dallas-Fort Worth and across the state. Explore our archives here. And sign up for our weekly email for the North Texas news you need to know.
