A plan to conduct live artillery exercises over a busy section of Interstate 5 in Southern California has led to significant safety concerns, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to announce the closure of a 17-mile (27 kilometers) stretch of the highway. The event, part of a military showcase attended by Vice President JD Vance, has drawn criticism for prioritizing spectacle over public safety.
Newsom expressed his disapproval in a statement, asserting that “firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous.” He accused the federal administration of placing its interests above the safety of citizens. The planned artillery exercise coincides with a celebration of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary at Camp Pendleton, where troops will demonstrate amphibious vehicles and aircraft.
Despite the governor’s objections, Vance and officials from the U.S. Marines have insisted that the planned exercise is safe and does not warrant disruption to traffic on the major corridor connecting San Diego and Los Angeles. The military stated that the event would strictly follow established safety protocols and would take place within approved training ranges.
As the situation developed, state transportation officials decided to close the freeway following practice firings that took place over the highway on the evening of September 29, 2023. Additionally, event organizers requested signage to alert drivers to “Overhead fire in progress.” The California Highway Patrol announced that the closure would occur on September 30, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. local time, advising travelers to expect delays.
Matt Rocco, a spokesperson for the California Department of Transportation, noted that the closure was necessary for public safety due to the military’s directive. He estimated that the closure could result in an additional two hours of travel time for commuters.
This section of Interstate 5 is crucial for daily travel, accommodating approximately 80,000 vehicles and transporting $94 million in freight each day, according to the governor’s office. Rail services running parallel to the highway will also be suspended during the demonstration.
In a response to Newsom’s comments, William Martin, a spokesperson for Vance, claimed that the governor was misleading the public regarding safety risks associated with the training exercises. He defended the military event as routine training necessary for maintaining a capable armed forces.
As this situation unfolds, observers will be watching closely to see how the military event proceeds and whether safety concerns are addressed adequately. The Associated Press has reached out to both Vance’s office and the U.S. Marines for further comment on the matter.
