Altered Manhattan Walk Sign Makes Very Rude Gesture

NEW YORK CITY — While most New York City street signs limit their messaging to "walk" and "stop," this downtown Manhattan pedestrian signal had a much ruder message to share.

One Patch reporters really aren't supposed to publish.

Bobbi Barnett spotted the altered sign on Prince and Mott streets in Nolita, promptly snapped a photo and shared it on Twitter Thursday afternoon.

It appears a rather tall New Yorker — or one armed with a step ladder, a black marker, and a plan — had blacked out three very important fingers of the "Don't walk" sign.

[Warning: There's vulgar iconography coming]

"Worth calling 311," Barnett queried. "Or nah?"

New Yorkers had lots to say about this.

Some took the opportunity to raise awareness about increased traffic fatalities in New York City.

"The signal is showing the correct symbology finally," wrote @BryonTRussell.
"All walk signals and 'traffic control' devices are a F--- You from the cars to the rest of us."

Others experienced the sign as a form of expression.

"This is art," @rbtastic replied.

And, because New Yorkers are nothing if not polite — in our way — one paid respect where respect was due.

"Not sure way [sic] I followed you initially," tweeted @jesusonthe_mont.
"But obviously it was a smart move. Thank you for sharing."