SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — All westbound lanes across the full span of the Bay Bridge have reopened after protesters shut down Interstate 80 traffic heading to San Francisco during the Thursday morning commute. The protesters stopped their cars on the bridge, east of Treasure Island, and threw their keys into the Bay before chaining themselves together and to the bridge, according to California Highway Patrol.
Around 80 protesters on the bridge were cited and released in a joint effort by CHP, the San Francisco Police Department and the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office, according to SFSO. Approximately 250 officers responded to the scene, CHP said.
During a news conference, the CHP said 15 vehicles were towed from the bridge as of 9:45 a.m., and the CHP estimated another 5 to 15 more vehicles would be towed.
Protest organizers called for an immediate ceasefire and to end U.S. military aid to Israel, according to a press release.
The westbound direction was closed for nearly four hours.
Caltrans encouraged motorists to use I-580, I-880, and Highway 92 as alternate routes. Transbay bus lines were diverted to the West Oakland BART station for riders to continue into San Francisco via train, according to AC Transit.
