SJPD Announces Plans for 2025 Cinco De Mayo Operations
Post Date: 04/04/2025 5:00 PM
MEDIA ADVISORY
The San José Police Department (SJPD) is dedicated to providing a secure and welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors, including those attending the upcoming Cinco de Mayo celebrations. San José has long been a popular destination for large crowds coming together to celebrate this cultural holiday and SJPD expects a similar turnout in 2025. In partnership with various community organizations, local officials, and residents, the City of San José will host a variety of officially sanctioned cultural events across the city. More information on these events will be provided in the near future.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, the Department will deploy additional officers and resources throughout the weekend. This may include temporary road closures (diversions), which will only be enacted when necessary to manage traffic flow and alleviate congestion. The goal is to minimize disruptions while allowing both pedestrians and vehicles to move safely through the city during the festivities.
SJPD will work to ensure that residents living in or near areas affected by potential closures can access their homes without unreasonable delays. Planned road closures will be communicated well in advance, with weekly updates posted on SJPD’s social media platforms. Visitors and residents alike are encouraged to utilize this SJPD Cinco de Mayo Traffic Map to plan their routes.
In previous years, the Police Department received concerns from residents and local businesses about unsanctioned gatherings, particularly involving individuals from other cities. While SJPD typically responded to traffic issues, some of which have resulted in violence and vandalism, this reactive approach left many unsatisfied.
To address this, SJPD has adopted a more proactive strategy, using traffic diversions to prevent congestion and safety issues before they arise. This approach has reduced violent crime and eased traffic, allowing residents to enjoy Cinco de Mayo with fewer disruptions. Last year, our collaboration with the community helped make the celebration a success, highlighting the positive impact of working together. SJPD encourages the public to follow SJPD on social media to stay informed on breaking news and any day-of diversions during the weekend celebration.
The issue of illegal sideshows has also been a growing concern in recent years. Last year, SJPD responded to multiple locations within the city to address this. In response, SJPD will dedicate additional resources to respond to sideshow activity during the weekend. Spectators at sideshows will be subject to fines or arrest, with penalties reaching up to $1,000. Drivers participating in sideshows can expect fines ranging from $3,000 to $4,000, along with a 30-day impoundment of their vehicles. As always, SJPD will maintain a zero-tolerance policy for illegal and disruptive behavior.
The San José Police Department encourages everyone attending Cinco de Mayo celebrations in 2025 to do so responsibly and with respect for others. SJPD is committed to ensuring a safe, secure, and enjoyable experience for all, and looks forward to celebrating with our community.
| BY: Sergeant Jorge Garibay #4218 | AUTHORIZED BY: Assistant Chief of Police Brian Shab |
| DATE: 04/04/2025 TIME: 11:00 AM | DATE: 04/04/2024 TIME: 11:00 AM |
Roosevelt Park Neighborhood Association 