Ceremony marks completion of Golden Gate Bridge barrier

A ceremony was held Monday to commemorate the completion of the suicide deterrent system at the Golden Gate Bridge.

Completed in early 2024, the bridge now has a continuous physical barrier installed the full length of the 1.7-mile span. The net is a proven design that deters people from jumping, serves as a symbol of care and hope to despondent individuals, and, if necessary, offers people a second chance.

"Today’s commemoration really is a tribute to the patience, the persistence, and the perspective of the parents," said MTC Commissioner and Sonoma County Supervisor David Rabbitt at the ceremony. "The net will not bring back the loved ones lost, but it will spare countless other families similar heartbreak in the future. And for this, we can be thankful, thoughtful, and above all, hopeful."

The net draws inspiration from similar barriers erected on tall buildings and bridges around the world. The community-selected design was chosen for its proven effectiveness and its minimalist aesthetic. The net consists of marine-grade stainless steel netting installed 20 feet below the sidewalks and extending out 20 feet over the water. 

“The Golden Gate Bridge is a source of immense pride to San Francisco — but for too many families in our community, the bridge has also been a place of pain,” Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said.  “With the completion of a suicide deterrent system for the Golden Gate Bridge, we are providing a critical second chance for troubled individuals.  It was my privilege to join the commemoration ceremony today in memory of every person who was lost on this bridge and with urgency for those who we may spare from suffering.”

Suicide barriers have proven extremely effective. The Sieden study at the Golden Gate Bridge showed that 90 percent of those stopped from jumping did not later die by suicide or other violent means. A Harvard School of Public Health article reviewing numerous studies showed more broadly that “nine out of 10 people who attempt suicide and survive will not go on to die by suicide at a later date.”

The total project cost was approximately $224 million, which includes construction, design and environmental expenses. Funding came from multiple sources: $74 million was provided by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, $70 million by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), $64 million through Golden Gate Bridge District revenue, $7 million by State of California Mental Health Funds via State Budget (Prop 63), and $400,000 from individual and foundation donations.

Resources: If you or a loved one needs help right away, call the National Suicide Prevention Line at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), call 988, or go to the nearest crisis center or emergency department.