25.7.12

Suicides at the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge

There's been a rash of suicides (4 since April) from the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge:

http://www.8newsnow.com/story/19104102/deaths-at-hoover-dam-bypass-bridge-raise-concern

I especially "like" the last paragraph of the article:

"Transportation department officials decided there was no effective deterrent to stop people from jumping from the bridge."
Really?

7.7.12

Another step closer

A few years ago, members of the Bridge Rail Foundation (I was part of that group) visited local lawmakers to explain about the need for a suicide barrier and the need for funds. I believe it was Lynn Woolsey who sponsored adding language, although the article mentioned Barbara Boxer, to an upcoming highway transportation bill about funding for barriers. That bill was stalled in Washington for ages but finally passed.

http://www.marinij.com/sausalito/ci_21023815/transportation-bill-makes-golden-gate-bridge-suicide-barrier

Here's the relevant paragraph:

"The new transportation bill contains crucial wording allowing funding for suicide prevention including safety rails and nets on bridges, said officials for the Sausalito-based Bridge Rail Foundation. The language in the bill also clarifies that institutions such as the Golden Gate Bridge District — a special purpose district — are eligible for these funds."

Of course, the battle to procure those funds isn't over, but it's another step along the loooooong path.