RI Lawmaker Calls For Suicide Barriers On 3 East Bay Bridges

PORTSMOUTH, RI — A Rhode Island lawmaker is calling for protective barriers to be placed along three East Bay Bridges. Representative Joseph Solomon, Jr. said barriers or netting are needed to prevent suicide attempts.

If the bill becomes law, the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority would be required to install the security measures on the Jamestown Verrazzano, Mount Hope and Newport Pell Bridge by the beginning of 2022.

"Too many people have committed suicide on those bridges in the last decade," Solomon said. "Due to technological advances, there are various types of barriers and netting available to increase safety without hindering access for routine inspection and maintenance of the bridges."

Suicide prevention measures such as a smart surveillance system to help emergency responders are already in place on the bridges, but there is nothing to deter someone from jumping in the first place. There are also signs, posted by the Rhode Island Samaritans, at the entrances to the bridges.

"It’s not only a serious problem, but an alarmingly frequent one," Solomon continued. "Last year alone, the Portsmouth Police responded to the Mount Hope Bridge 36 times. And the cost of suicide goes far beyond the individual. It affects friends, families, first responders and health care professionals. Those who survive the fall all say the same thing: they feel instant regret the moment their feet leave the railing."

In November, a state police detective and several bystanders were commended for their work to save a jumper from the water below the Mount Hope Bridge in Portsmouth.

Similar plans are in the works in other states including New York, Florida and California. The legislation is co-sponsored by three East Bay lawmakers, as well as Rep. Robert Craven of North Kingstown. Newport Senator Louis DiPalma said he plans to introduce companion legislation in the Senate.