The Golden Gate Bridge's safety net project is almost complete. But, the question is, will this help prevent suicides?
For the past few years, the one-mile-wide suspension bridge in San Francisco, California, has been a popular tourist spot. It was even featured in some popular movies, such as "Monsters Vs. Aliens," "Godzilla," "Superman: The Movie," etc.
But, it also attracts Americans with suicidal intentions. This is why the new safety net project is a big deal, especially for families of those who took their lives by jumping off this infrastructure.
Golden Gate Bridge's Safety Net Project Almost Complete
The Guardian reported that the suicides that happened on the Golden Gate Bridge have created a years-long movement to save suicidal people by reducing access to the popular tourist spot.
This movement has been led by parents and relatives of young suicide victims. Now that the safety project is almost complete, their efforts will soon finally pay off.
The safety net project's construction began in 2018. The stainless steel net extending 20 feet below and 20 feet out from the suspension bridge brings hope to citizens and officials that the new barrier can prevent people from jumping off the bridge.
It was supposed to be completed earlier. However, the safety net project faced numerous delays, rising costs, as well as criticisms from local residents who were concerned that it would affect the suspension bridge's aesthetics and affect San Francisco's tourist industry.
But, thanks to the efforts of officials who approved it, workers behind the construction, and citizens supporting it, the new safety net is expected to be finished before 2023 ends.
Thousands Jumped Off Golden Gate Bridge
CNN reported that over 1,800 people have already taken their lives by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge ever since the infrastructure was constructed in 1937.
The first suicide case happened during the same year of the suspension bridge's construction completion. Almost 40 of the people who jumped were able to survive.
Recent studies revealed that when a suicidal individual survives a suicide attempt or is prevented from doing so, they will most likely not make a second suicide attempt.
This means that if the new safety net can prevent people from taking their lives on the Golden Gate Bridge, then the project will be a big deal since it can encourage many Americans to continue living their lives.