January 2013
- We completed fence installation on Feb. 15, 2011.
- Since we completed the work, according to Seattle Police, there has been one suicide.
- ABC News profiled the Aurora Avenue Safety fence during suicide prevention week in September 2012.
In this project crews working for WSDOT installed 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.
Why is WSDOT
adding a fence to the Aurora Bridge?
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.
The End Result
A fence along the outer railing of the bridge will deter people from jumping off the bridge.
Project Benefits
Safety: A fence will help deter people from jumping from the Aurora Bridge. In addition, a 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 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.
What is the 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 $1.5 million in design funding.
- Spring 2008: start of project design.
- July - October 2008: advisory committee meetings
- May 2009 -- Governor Gregoire signs the transportation budget for the 2009-11 biennium. The budget includes construction funding for the Aurora Bridge Fence.
- August 2009: WSDOT advertises the project to contractors for competitive bidding
- September 2009: WSDOT awards the contract to most competitive bidder
- May 2009: start construction
- Fall 2010: start fence installation
- February 2011: fence installation complete
Financial Information
Project signage will reflect the cost of construction engineering, project bid award and sales tax.
| Financial Data for PIN 109946F |
| Funding Source |
Amount ($ in thousands) |
| 2003 Gas Tax (Nickel Funding) |
$0 |
| 2005 Gas Tax (TPA) |
$0 |
| Pre-Existing Funds (PEF) |
$4,836 |
| Total |
$4,836 |
|
This project is funded through the following fund sources:
- Existing funds - $5 milliion
- Total funding available from all sources - $5 million
How can I get more information?
Contact:
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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