News Summary
Authorities have announced a $140 million anti-suicide barrier project for the San Diego-Coronado Bridge to reduce the alarming suicide rate. This project follows other ineffective safety measures taken in the past. Additionally, significant renovations are set for Cays Park’s playground and Sharp Coronado Hospital has enhanced its earthquake resilience. These initiatives aim to create safer public spaces in the Coronado area.
Coronado, CA – Significant safety improvements are on the horizon for the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, Cays Park, and Sharp Coronado Hospital, according to recent announcements from local officials. In a decisive move to address the alarming number of suicides associated with the San Diego-Coronado Bridge, a $140 million anti-suicide barrier project is set to be overseen by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
Since its completion in 1969, the bridge has witnessed over 400 fatal jumps, establishing it as the second deadliest bridge in the United States, following the Golden Gate Bridge. The new barrier is anticipated to be completed by fall 2028, though Caltrans has not specified a start date for construction. The project was awarded a contract in April as part of ongoing efforts to enhance safety at the site, which is often referred to as a “suicide bridge.”
Caltrans’ initiative follows limited previous attempts to deter suicides, such as the installation of four-inch spikes along the railing in 2019 and the use of security cameras, both of which have proved ineffective in reducing the suicide rate on the bridge. A study from Harvard University suggests that 90% of individuals who survive suicide attempts do not go on to die by suicide, highlighting the critical need for effective intervention measures.
Cays Park in Coronado is also undergoing safety enhancements, with a significant $31.2 million renovation plan. This includes upgrading playground equipment, as the main play structure is currently closed due to safety concerns. Repairs are slated to commence on May 23, with expectations for the structure to reopen the following week. A specific timeline for the installation of a new replacement structure, which has already been ordered, is still pending. The city is currently preparing a bid package for an installer to expedite this process.
During a recent city council meeting on May 20, City Manager Tina Friend acknowledged the city’s commitment to swiftly replacing the playground equipment, especially for families who heavily rely on it. This renovation aims to ensure that the park remains a safe and enjoyable space for children and their families.
In addition to these safety upgrades, Sharp Coronado Hospital has completed a seismic retrofit, making it the first hospital in the region to enhance its earthquake resilience. This upgrade was detailed by a hospital representative during the city council meeting, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the hospital’s infrastructure can withstand seismic events, thus providing a safe environment for all patients and staff.
As these projects progress, local leaders are hopeful that they will lead to safer public spaces and improved overall community well-being. The focus on safety and infrastructure upgrades reflects a commitment to addressing critical health and safety concerns in the Coronado area.
In summary, the San Diego-Coronado Bridge will see the implementation of a major safety barrier to counteract suicide jumps by the projected fall of 2028. Concurrently, Cays Park is set for substantial renovations to its playground, while Sharp Coronado Hospital has taken steps to fortify its earthquake readiness, marking a series of significant safety initiatives for Coronado residents.
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Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: News Briefs
- Wikipedia: Suicide Prevention
- Fox 5 San Diego: Coronado Bridge Suicides
- Google Search: San Diego-Coronado Bridge
- Mercury News: Golden Gate Bridge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Suicide
- Coronado Times: Contract Award
- Google News: Anti-Suicide Barrier
- Fox 5 San Diego: Suicide Prevention Barrier
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
