At the the time of its construction the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge span in the world. Many experts believed that the bridge could not conceivingly be built across the 6700 ft strait; The waters too choppy with strong twirling currants. A 500 ft depth at the center of the channel. Blinding low fog, and often ferocious winds. The bridge also faced an abundance of opposition, including the department of war and the navy, who feared the bridge would interfere with ship traffic and possible collisions, thus blocking access to one of its main harbors. However, the proposal finally went ahead and chief engineer and bridge builder Joseph B. Strauss together with his team set the wheels in motion.

Architect Irving F. Morrow gave the bridge its unique design and color, known as International Orange which was chosen to blend in with the natural elements.

Golden Gate Bridge Physical Suicide Deterrent System Project

It is said that the navy wanted the bridge to be painted black with yellow stripes for clearer observation purposes. The locals adored morrows color which was originally used specifically as a sealant.

The bridge opened to week long celebrations on May 27th 1937 at a cost of $35 million. At 1.7 miles in length the bridge connects San Fransisco and Marin County.

As you stand on the Golden Gate Bridge you cannot help but admire it as a marvel in engineering. You cannot help but feel its grandeur and overwhelming presence. It is a thrill to stand on this great landmark, but for some, it serves as a platform for death.

In 2007, the coroner received the bodies of 35 people who jumped from its span; 29 in 2006, 21 in 2005, 20 in 2004, 19 in 2003, and 31 last year. Those who choose to end their life here feel it is an easy way out. The 220 ft drop only takes 4 seconds at 75 mph. It is like hitting concrete. The impact is brutal and violent. For most, death is instantaneous, but for a few they will land in the water in such a way they do not instantly die. Instead, they suffer horrific internal injuries and are plummeted deep below the frigid water to a slow and somewhat agonizing death. Once a jump is initiated there is no turing back. Sometimes bodies are not even located. Loved ones are not only left with unanswered questions, and a pain that never truly goes away,but some do not even have a body to bury.

Very few actually survive, but some have. John Vidaurri of San Francisco Suicide Prevention states that most of those he has spoken with have said that once they leave the platform of the bridge, they've regretted jumping off.

The Bridge is now patrolled, and emergency suicide helplines are in place. This does deter some, but not all. On February 12, 2010, the Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District Board of Directors voted unanimously for the Bridge to have a long sought after Net System. The net will extend 20 feet below and 20 feet from the side of the span, which would cost in the range of $50 million and take up to three years to design and install. The funding still needs to be found for this much needed project. Anyone wishing to donate to the Golden Gate Bridge Physical Suicide Deterrent System Project please do so here: GGBHTD, P.O. Box 9000, Presidio Station, San Francisco, CA 94129, Attention: Accounting/Suicide Barrier

To view their website: www.ggbsuicidebarrier.org

Comments on this project bridgecomments@goldengate.org

 

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for help

Sadness on the Bridge

by Claire Kaufman