Metal security gates were installed on several downtown Los Angeles freeway ramps ahead of protests planned for this weekend.
The heavy duty gates, installed on ramps on the 101 Freeway, span the width of the ramps when closed. Caltrans said the California Highway Patrol reached out months ago to start working on a plan to secure the ramps and prevent people from walking onto the freeway.
Past demonstrations, including one in June, have spilled onto downtown LA freeways and blocked traffic. People have walked onto the freeway at Los Angeles Street in at least three previous demonstrations.
“We’ve seen pedestrians walk onto the highway using the ramps, creating unsafe conditions for pedestrians and motorists,” said Caltrans spokesperson Diana Jimenez. “Our primary goal for installing these gates is to protect the traveling public, pedestrians, maintenance crews and our partners.”
Dozens of marches and rallies are planned for Saturday as part of No Kings protests. In Los Angeles, a protest is planned for the afternoon at Gloria Molina Grand Park, across the street from Los Angeles City Hall.
The No Kings National Day of Nonviolent Action will see over 3,000 communities hold simultaneous demonstrations. The rally is being supported locally by more than 30 organizations.
‘No Kings’ Protests March 28, 2026
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