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Golden Gate Bridge Installs Safety Nets to Combat Suicides After Years of Campaigning

Installation of $217 million stainless steel safety nets expected to drastically reduce average of 33.5 suicides per year; despite some critics' concerns, nets prove generally effective, saving 20 lives in first year.

Overview

  • The Golden Gate Bridge, after years of campaigns for suicide prevention, has installed stainless steel safety nets designed to deter suicides.
  • Despite not being a complete solution, the nets have reportedly saved 20 lives in the first year after installation.
  • Since 2011, suicides at the bridge have averaged 33.5 per year, numbers which the safety nets have already helped to reduce.
  • The nets, costing $217 million, hang about 20 feet down and stretch about 20 feet out, visible to those standing at the rail.
  • While the construction of the safety nets was expected to take a few years, delays in construction bids and funding caused the project to extend to seven years.