Overview
We completed the installation of a fence on the outside of the Aurora Bridge. At the north end of the bridge the eight-foot nine-inch tall fence begins just south of the Fremont on- and off-ramps. At the south end, the fence starts just north of the Queen Anne on- and off-ramps.
An increase in the number of suicide attempts from the bridge and comments from people who live and work in the densely populated area compelled the City of Seattle, King County, WSDOT and community members to take action.
The aftermath of these suicides affects more people than just those who commit or attempt suicide and their families. They significantly affect people who live and work below the bridge. These people must experience the aftermath of suicides and suicide attempts. Emergency response staff also put themselves at risk attempting to rescue people in this hazardous waterway.
Project timeline
- December 2006: Suicide prevention signs and phones installed on the Aurora Bridge.
- 2007: Cost estimates submitted for consideration in the 2008 session of the Washington State Legislature.
- March 2008: The state Legislature approved $1.5 million in design funding.
- Spring 2008: start of project design.
- July - October 2008: advisory committee meetings
- May 2009 -- Governor Gregoire signs the transportation budget for the 2009-11 biennium. The budget includes construction funding for the Aurora Bridge Fence.
- August 2009: WSDOT advertises the project to contractors for competitive bidding
- September 2009: WSDOT awards the contract to most competitive bidder
- May 2009: start construction
- Fall 2010: start fence installation
- February 2011: fence installation complete
 | Improves Safety
The fence will help deter people from jumping from the Aurora Bridge. In addition, the fence will help protect those who live, work and play below the bridge. These people are at risk when someone jumps or falls from the bridge and those who witness an incident are often traumatized by the experience.
This work also benefits emergency responders who must dive into the murky waters of the Lake Washington Ship Canal after someone jumps or to save people who jump from the Aurora Bridge.
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Partnerships & Cooperation
WSDOT formed an advisory committee to represent community, business and local government interests throughout the project.
Funding
| Financial Data for PIN 109946F |
| Funding Source |
Amount ($ in thousands) |
| 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) |
$0 |
| 2005 Gas Tax (TPA) |
$0 |
| Pre-Existing Funds (PEF) |
$9,738 |
| Total |
$9,738 |
|
Contact Us
Greg Phipps
WSDOT Communications
999 Third Avenue, Suite 2424
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-805-2862
E-mail: phippsg@wsdot.wa.gov
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