Remote Surveillance Trailer in Barstow, CA

NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. –

Defense Logistics Agency Barstow, California, procured and began training on a new “crawler” system to enhance operations and increase support to customer requirements at the Yermo Annex aboard Marine Corps Logistics Base, California, Feb. 12.

The "crawler" system is a remote-controlled self-propelled system designed to move heavy machinery or other heavy objects safely, easily and efficiently. The system consists of two parts, the crawler and the power unit, which have the capability of moving up to 30 tons.

One key benefit to the new system is that the "crawler" is capable of moving loads in spaces that aren’t conducive to overhead cranes or large forklift access.

“The equipment will allow special oversized and heavy loads to be moved in locations that are currently inaccessible with the equipment available at DLA Distribution Barstow, California,” said Valerie Bustamante, deputy director, DLA Distribution Barstow, California.

The purchase of this system enhances DLA Distribution Barstow’s capability to properly store U.S. Navy mission critical parts that would be otherwise stored in an outdoor location.

“This crawler is a game-changer for indoor storage and will greatly expand long term military service-owned warfighter critical mission material,” said Adam Smith, director, DLA Distribution Barstow, California. “This new piece of equipment will improve Barstow's operations, future state and has the potential to be utilized across the DLA Distribution enterprise.”

The "crawler" moves at a speed of 0-25 feet-per-minute with a zero-turn radius. The system is a propane hydraulic powered self-propelled cart with a 30-foot umbilical cord that includes tow jacks, specialized rollers, the powered mover and special work aid beams designed specifically for DLA Distribution.

“This new system will allow us to move material with only having to lift it 8 inches off the ground, which allows us to store material indoors and get critical equipment out of the weather,” Bustamante said.

DLA Distribution Barstow, California stores over 59,800 warfighter support items valued at over $2.1 billion at two locations on Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California. The distribution center is capable of accommodating inside storage requirements for a wide variety of commodities, including electronic parts and components, radioactive material, clothing and textiles, military equipment replacement parts, engines and transmissions, shafts, reduction gears and wire cable.

Barstow, CA (March 10, 2025) – Emergency responders rushed to the scene of a collision involving two semi-trucks on westbound Interstate 40 near mile marker 69 late Sunday morning.

According to California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred when a semi-truck collided with a parked semi, blocking the right lane and causing debris to scatter across the roadway. Responding paramedics provided care for at least two injured individuals involved in the accident.

Authorities confirmed that one of the semi-trailers was carrying a full load of frozen food, while the other was hauling produce, including chili peppers. The impact compromised the right side of one trailer, requiring emergency personnel to transfer its cargo. Tow services were dispatched to assist with removing the damaged vehicles.

Traffic in the area was initially affected, with a SigAlert issued due to lane blockages. However, crews later moved the wreckage to mile marker 67.5, clearing all lanes and allowing traffic to resume. Investigators continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the crash.

We extend our thoughts to those injured and wish them a full recovery.

Semi-truck accidents are among the most dangerous crashes on California highways, often resulting in severe injuries and significant road delays. Due to their massive size and weight, collisions involving large commercial vehicles can lead to extensive damage and life-threatening injuries.

In this incident, the collision between two semi-trucks blocked a major travel lane, requiring swift action from emergency responders. Such accidents often occur due to driver fatigue, mechanical failures, or misjudgments while maneuvering large trailers. The presence of parked vehicles on high-speed highways can also contribute to dangerous conditions, making it crucial for truck drivers to adhere to safety protocols when stopping.

Victims of truck accidents may face prolonged recovery periods and financial hardships due to medical bills and lost wages. Additionally, cargo spills, such as the one in this crash, can present further risks and cleanup challenges. Legal options are available for those injured in such incidents, helping them seek compensation for their damages.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, understanding your rights is essential. Local resources and legal professionals can assist you in pursuing justice and obtaining the support you need.

Local Accident Reports recognizes the devastating impact of truck accidents on victims and their families. If you have been injured in a collision with a commercial vehicle, we encourage you to explore your options for legal recourse. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you during this difficult time.

City of Barstow and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway officials hosted a community meeting to share updates on the Barstow International Gateway project.

The Barstow International Gateway project is a nearly 4,500-acre integrated rail facility that would transfer goods from international to domestic containers.

The project would result in a more than $1.5 billion investment in the community, potentially creating more than 20,000 new jobs along with 3,000 to 4,000 construction jobs annually.

The project will also help address logistics and supply chain issues, BNSF officials stated.

During the meeting, Barstow Interim City Manager Andrew Espinoza, Jr. helped introduce key updates on Barstow’s comprehensive General Plan overhaul, initiated in late 2022. The ongoing initiative, driven by increasing development and enhancements, aims to establish new policies and plans that will guide the city's growth for the next 20 to 25 years.

The recent update addresses the expansion of housing, public safety, recreation, and transportation systems, along with the protection of environmental and cultural resources, city officials stated.

Barstow International Gateway's state-of-the-art features

The most notable project is the Barstow International Gateway, which will feature over 4,500 acres of state-of-the-art infrastructure, surpassing existing facilities in capacity and technology.

“The Barstow International Gateway is the most significant project our city has undertaken, and we are working diligently to ensure its success,” Espinoza said. "We've held stakeholder meetings, surveys, town halls, and open houses to gather input from the community and various government agencies."

As the main point of the project, BNSF Railway has been working with Barstow city officials and traveling to established facilities, like the BNSF Alliance Intermodal Facility in Texas, to obtain best practices.

The city has already updated its housing element plan and continues to gather public input through a series of town hall meetings, the next of which is scheduled later this month, city leaders stated.

During the most recent town hall meeting, speakers addressed the projects’ key priorities: expanding housing options for current and future residents; improving public services, including schools and recreational facilities; enhancing transportation infrastructure, focusing on roads, bicycle systems and flood control, particularly in areas like the Linwood Channel; and sustaining economic growth by creating job opportunities for Barstow residents.

BNSF officials discussed the process of moving forward with these initiatives despite pushback from the California Air Resources Board, which proposed a “In-Use Locomotive Regulation” that would require zero-emission (such as electric) locomotives in California, which does not yet exist.

If approved, projects like the Barstow International Gateway would be canceled, unable to adhere to the new, costly, and misguided regulations, city leaders said.

A recent amendment approved by the U.S. House of Representatives in July would prohibit a “job-killing” electric locomotive rule, the Daily Press reported.