Scenic California bridge puts up massive barriers across edge for terrifying reason

A towering suicide-prevention is set to rise along San Diego’s famed Coronado Bridge after state coastal regulators signaled support for a $140 million project aimed at stopping one of the nation’s deadliest suicide hotspots.

The Coronado Bridge has been the site of about 400 documented suicide deaths since opening in 1969, according to project documents.

That grim record has made it the second most frequently used bridge for suicide in the country, after the Golden Gate Bridge.

The California Coastal Commission is expected to officially give the green light on the massive San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge Suicide Deterrent Project, paving the way for construction to begin later this year.

The project will install an an 8-foot-high vertical steel wire mesh barrier along both sides of the bridge’s existing railings.

The barrier is designed to make it significantly harder for people in crisis to jump from the bridge, while preserving views of the San Diego Bay.

“Long time coming,” survivor and suicide-prevention advocate Steve Bouchard told NBC San Diego, saying a physical barrier could save lives by preventing impulsive acts.

Under plans, the deterrent system would be attached to the bridge’s existing structure and extend above the current railings.

But it’s not just a straightforward fence installation, and the project includes an array of moving parts, plus upgraded security cameras.

The plan calls for the construction of new substructure maintenance walkways beneath the bridge deck, allowing workers to safely inspect and service the new barriers without disrupting traffic. Caltrans has also proposed a new public mural location in the Barrio Logan area “to enhance the streetscape under the bridge.”

On the Coronado side, the project would lower the height of chain-link fence along the Bayshore Bikeway to expand the views of the bay for those on foot or on a bike.

Once approved, construction would begin in October of this year, and span about two years.

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.

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