Interstate 5 Closure Sparks Outrage and Traffic Chaos: ‘No Coordination’
On a Saturday morning, San Clemente found itself at the center of controversy when Interstate 5 faced sudden closure. This incident occurred during a preplanned military live-fire exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, disrupting traffic for an extended period. The 17-mile stretch of I-5 closed intermittently, with the closure extending just beyond San Clemente’s city limits.
Traffic Chaos and Outrage
The closure began mid-morning, causing significant congestion on the southbound lanes just before the El Camino Real exit. Motorists attempting to navigate the freeway encountered escalating delays. Signs at previous exits, including Avenida Palizada, Avenida Pico, and Avenida Vista Hermosa, had warned of the upcoming blockage.
- Southbound traffic halted approximately half a mile prior to the closure.
- Some drivers attempted illegal maneuvers to get off the freeway, leading to dangerous situations.
- California Highway Patrol ultimately intervened to shut down access to the vacant El Camino Real onramp.
Lack of Coordination Raises Concerns
Local officials voiced their frustrations over the unforeseen closure. San Clemente City Councilmember Mark Enmeier stated that there was no prior communication with city representatives. Many residents learned about the situation via an Instagram announcement by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Enmeier criticized the timing of the military event, describing it as a “show of force” meant to coincide with widespread protests occurring that day. He highlighted the financial impact of the closure, indicating that the lack of alternative routes from Orange County to San Diego would result in extended detours and increased taxpayer burden.
The Impact on Local Business
Local businesses experienced the effects of the freeway closure. Joey Abi-Loutfi, owner of SC Cafe, expressed skepticism regarding the planned military exercises and their influence on foot traffic to his establishment. He noted that while he was aware of traffic reports prior to the closure, the actual consequences were more disruptive than anticipated.
State and Federal Responses
By midday, awareness of the closure spread, easing conditions somewhat in San Clemente. However, alternative routes like the 91 and 15 freeways faced significant backups as motorists sought detours. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized federal officials for their lack of coordination and failure to share safety information related to the event.
While California justified the closure for safety, federal administration representatives contended that the Pendleton exercise posed no risk requiring such a drastic measure. The controversy surrounding the Interstate 5 closure continues to fuel discussions on governance, community planning, and public safety.
