Holy Land Experience forced to remove mural from interstate ramp

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Holy Land Experience is paying to remove a massive mural from state property.  
 
The painting on the side of the Interstate 4 Conway ramp was done without permission and has been completely painted over.
 
"I think if you hadn't known it was painted, it would look like any other wall, and we're glad that it looks as good as it does now," David Williamson, of Central Florida Freethought, said.
 
The Florida Department of Transportation said the religious mural was painted on state property without its knowledge.
 
"Our organization focuses on the encroachment of religion into government, and this is a perfect example of that," Williamson said.
 
The state did not say who ordered the mural to be painted over, how much it cost and if the Holy Land Experience would face any consequences.
 
"It's disappointing that it took so long, but we're glad to see it resolved," Williamson said.
 
The Holy Land Experience said in a statement:
 
"Over the last several weeks, HLE and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) had several discussions in regard to the ramp wall. The issues raised regarding the ramp wall were resolved in an amicable and equitable fashion.  HLE returned the wall to its original condition, utilizing a FDOT approved contractor, at its sole cost and expense. HLE thanks the Florida Department of Transportation for its understanding, courtesy and cooperation in working with HLE to address this matter."

Cox Media Group