I rode my bicycle over the bridge once, many years ago. But I realized that the wind from passing cars could easily force me sideways, and the railing was so low I could easily go over the side. I never rode across the bridge after that.

The bridge is about 1,100 feet long, and at speeds of 55 to 60 mph, that allows only about 11 to 14 seconds (or less) to look at the view. A driver on this narrow two-lane road would be unwise and unsafe to gaze at that view even momentarily. There is an off-road pullout near the bridge going west. A perfect and quiet and safe spot to stop and see the beautiful valley.

From reading the anti-barrier postings, I have come to the conclusion that what we have here is a bias against people who become depressed—and, as often happens, temporarily overwhelmed with a feeling of hopelessness and a monumental emotion of being worthless. The effort required to jump is minimal and the act is frequently impulsive. Yet depression is usually transitory and very treatable.

Someone said something about the effort being representative of a “nanny government.” I would remind them that before we had a “nanny government” we had no laws to protect workers, children, or the elderly, and most of the money was in very few hands. Perhaps the so-called Friends of the Bridge would volunteer to help the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue team retrieve the remains after the tragic suicides. It is not-so-pleasant duty, even traumatic.

It is imperative to finish the suicide-barrier project. This is about saving our humanity. The Friends of the Bridge could better spend their energy and time working for the environment and for life.—Tony Tonkin

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