Introduction to the Situation
SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office is weighing whether to close parts of Interstate 5 beginning Friday amid concerns over what it says is a White House-directed plan to use live ordnance during a military anniversary celebration off Camp Pendleton’s coast in San Diego County — where Navy ships are expected to fire over the freeway onto the base.
Concerns Over Live-Fire Event
Newsom’s office has received, but not confirmed, reports that live ordnance will be fired from offshore vessels during the event commemorating the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary. The event is titled “Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength” and will feature Vice President JD Vance.
Safety and Coordination Concerns
Newsom’s office said it has received little information about the event or safety plans. The military show of force coincides with No Kings rallies and marches across the state on Saturday that are expected to draw large crowds, demonstrations challenging Trump and what critics say is government overreach.
Reaction from Governor Newsom
“Donald Trump and JD Vance think that shutting down the I-5 to shoot out missiles from ships is how you respect the military,” Newsom posted on the social media site X Wednesday.
Details of the Event
A military media advisory said the celebration will include a live amphibious assault demonstration. The Times could not confirm whether live ordnance will be fired over the freeway. The White House and Marine Corps did not respond to questions from The Times.
Response from Newsom’s Office
“California always honors our Marines — but this isn’t the right way to go about it,” said a Newsom spokesperson. “The White House should focus on paying their military, lowering grocery prices and honoring these soldiers for their service instead of pompous displays of power. The lack of coordination and communication from the federal government on this event — and the overall impact to our society and economy — is evident of the larger disarray that is the Trump Administration.”
Potential Freeway Closures
Freeway closures are being considered for a section of I-5 between Orange County to San Diego County from Friday to Saturday, which would cut off a major traffic artery that moves upward of 80,000 travelers a day. A closure with little notice would likely result in massive gridlock from Dana Point in the north to well past Del Mar in the south.
Preparations by California Department of Transportation
California Department of Transportation spokesman Edward Barrera said that based on “potential scenarios shared with us by the federal government” the agency is preparing shut down a section of Interstate 5 for the safety of California motorists.
Expected Attendance and Participation
Vance, the first Marine veteran to serve as vice president, is expected to attend the event Saturday along with 15,000 Marines, Sailors, veterans and their families, according to event’s media release. Along with Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is expected to deliver remarks.
Live-Fire Training at Camp Pendleton
Camp Pendleton advised nearby residents that there will be live-fire training with high explosive munitions through Sunday, which will result in some roads on base being closed.
Previous Plans for Celebration
The Trump administration previously had plans for a major celebration next month for the 250th anniversary of the Navy and Marines, which would have included an air and sea show — with the Blue Angels and parading warships — attended by President Trump, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Plans to host that show in San Diego have been called off, the paper reported.
Conclusion
The potential closure of Interstate 5 due to the live-fire military event at Camp Pendleton has raised concerns over safety and coordination. The event, which is part of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebration, may result in significant disruptions to traffic and daily life in Southern California. As the situation develops, it is essential to stay informed about any updates or changes to the plans.
FAQs
Q: What is the reason for the potential closure of Interstate 5?
A: The potential closure is due to concerns over a live-fire military event at Camp Pendleton, where Navy ships are expected to fire over the freeway onto the base.
Q: What is the event being held for?
A: The event is part of the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary celebration, titled “Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength”.
Q: Who is expected to attend the event?
A: Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and 15,000 Marines, Sailors, veterans, and their families are expected to attend.
Q: What are the concerns regarding the event?
A: There are concerns over safety, coordination, and the potential disruption to traffic and daily life in Southern California.
Q: What is the expected impact on traffic?
A: A closure of Interstate 5 would likely result in massive gridlock from Dana Point in the north to well past Del Mar in the south.
