5 Freeway Reopens After Camp Pendleton Military Event Caused 17-Mile Closure

Freeway Closure for Military Event

• ⚠️ A 17-mile stretch of the 5 Freeway near the San Diego and Orange County line was temporarily closed on Saturday.
• 🎯 The closure, in effect from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, was due to live fire exercises for the Marine Corps' 250th Anniversary at Camp Pendleton.
• 🚗 Drivers were detoured to the 15 Freeway, which also experienced backups.

Decision to Close the Freeway

• ⚡ The California Highway Patrol (CHP) made the decision to close the roadway for public safety and to prevent driver distraction.
• 🏛️ This decision came from the Governor's office, despite earlier indications that the freeway would not need to be shut down.
• 🗣️ There was a public exchange on social media between the Governor's office and the White House regarding the necessity and transparency of the closure.
• 📢 The Governor's press office stated that California traffic and public safety experts recommended the closure.

Impact on Drivers

• ⏱️ Some drivers reported being stuck for 30-45 minutes, or up to an hour.
• 🤷 Others found the impact less severe than expected, having received fair warning on Friday.
• ✅ By the time many drivers encountered the closure, they found alternate routes less congested, or decided to wait for the freeway to reopen.
• 🚧 By late afternoon, crews were seen removing safety cones and signs, and the 5 Freeway was reopened in both directions.