A planned military artillery exercise over a major Southern California highway has resulted in the closure of a 17-mile (27 kilometers) stretch of Interstate 5, as concerns about public safety prompted action from Governor Gavin Newsom. The exercise coincides with a visit by Vice President JD Vance to Camp Pendleton on March 18, 2024, where the U.S. Marine Corps is celebrating its 250th anniversary.
Newsom criticized the decision to conduct live artillery fire above the busy freeway, asserting that prioritizing a military showcase over public safety is unacceptable. “Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous,” he stated, emphasizing his responsibility to protect California residents.
Despite the governor’s objections, Vance and U.S. Marine officials maintained that the exercise poses no safety risks and insisted that traffic on the interstate would not be disrupted. They affirmed that the event would take place on approved training ranges, adhering to established safety protocols.
The planned exercise includes a demonstration of amphibious vehicles and aircraft, highlighting the capabilities of the Marine Corps. State transportation officials initially considered the freeway closure earlier in the week but ultimately decided to proceed after practice firings were conducted over the highway on the evening prior to the event.
In response to the situation, the California Department of Transportation announced that the I-5 would be closed on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. local time. Commuters traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles are advised to expect delays both before and after the closure. According to the governor’s office, the freeway serves approximately 80,000 travelers daily and accounts for $94 million in freight traffic.
A spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol indicated that the closure is necessary for the safety of the public. “This is all because of the White House-directed military event, that for the safety of the public, we need to shut down the freeway since they’re sending live ordnance over the freeway,” said Matt Rocco, a spokesperson for the department.
In a statement to the New York Times, William Martin, a spokesperson for Vance, defended the training exercises, asserting they are routine and essential for maintaining the effectiveness of the Armed Forces. “If Gavin Newsom wants to oppose the training exercises that ensure our Armed Forces are the deadliest and most lethal fighting force in the world, then he can go right ahead,” Martin stated.
The freeway closure could add up to two hours to travel times for those commuting between the two cities. Additionally, passenger rail services running parallel to the I-5 have been canceled for the afternoon, compounding the impact on local transport options.
The situation highlights the ongoing tension between state officials and the federal government regarding military exercises and their implications for public safety. Both sides have raised significant points, but the ultimate decision to prioritize public safety over military display remains contentious. As the event unfolds, authorities will monitor the situation closely, ensuring that safety protocols are strictly followed.
