Plans move forward in San Francisco for Golden Gate Bridge suicide nets
By APSaturday, February 13, 2010
Plans advance for Golden Gate Bridge suicide nets
SAN FRANCISCO — Directors of the agency that oversees the Golden Gate Bridge have moved a step closer to approving a suicide barrier along the historic span.
The board voted 16-0 to approve an environmental impact report that examines the consequences of hanging steel nets 20 feet below the bridge deck on each side.
About 25 people per year die in jumps from the bridge. Suicide prevention activists have long pushed for the barrier, while detractors have argued the money would be better spent on mental health services.
The bridge district needs $50 million for the project — $5 million for a detailed design and $45 million for construction.
Information from: San Francisco Chronicle, www.sfgate.com/chronicle
