State to install screen on Olympia bridge

Published 10:21 pm Saturday, May 15, 2010

OLYMPIA — Washington state Department of Transportation officials will install a 9-foot wire screen on the Capitol Boulevard Bridge in the hopes of deterring suicide attempts.

The Olympian reports four people have committed suicide at the bridge in the last four years.

The $1.2 million project could begin by September and will close gaps in the railing.

Troy Cowan, an assistant regional manager with the transportation department wouldn’t say the improvements will prevent suicides, but it also will help prevent other objects from falling from the bridge.

State Rep. Brendan Williams says the bridge has gotten a reputation as a place for suicide.

Memorials have been left on the bridge.

Williams has asked that the memorials be removed.