Caltrans needs funding for Coronado Bridge suicide deterrent barrier

The Coronado Bridge, with a history of deaths by suicide, is set to see new safety barriers built under a fast-track state construction process. But the plan remains largely unfunded, and local leaders say they’re worried that without public support, the life-saving effort could still end up stalled.

Updates on the bridge safety project emerged last week, as officials from the California Department of Transportation presented their plans to Coronado officials.

That same day, Coronado’s city council adopted a proclamation recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month. The issue hits home in a community that has been home to countless members of the Navy, but also to many military service members who have died by suicide, Mayor John Duncan noted.

Since the bridge’s completion