Did you know the Aurora Bridge once held the unfortunate title of second most suicide-prone bridge in the US? Only the Golden Gate Bridge surpassed it. That’s a chilling thought as we stand here looking at this majestic structure.
The Aurora Bridge officially the George Washington Memorial Bridge connects the Queen Anne and Fremont neighborhoods. It’s a significant landmark a steel cantilever and truss bridge spanning Lake Union. Its dedication in 1932 was a huge event. President Herbert Hoover even remotely triggered a telegraph key to unfurl flags marking the occasion. The ceremony was broadcast nationwide. A time capsule was even placed on the bridge to be opened in 2032.
The bridge has a rich history. Sadly much of it involves tragedy. More than 230 people ended their lives by jumping from the bridge. The first suicide occurred just a month before its completion. It wasn’t until 2011 that a suicide prevention fence was finally constructed. It was an eight-foot high barrier. Its installation was a significant step towards preventing further tragedies. Before the fence was erected emergency phones and signs were installed. They directed people towards suicide prevention hotlines.
Beyond suicides the Aurora Bridge has also witnessed horrific accidents. In 1998 a bus driver was shot and killed. The bus then went out of control. It crashed into an apartment building injuring over 30 people. Another incident involved a duck boat colliding with a charter bus in 2015. This caused five deaths and 50 injuries.
Despite the dark history haunting stories abound. Legends speak of apparitions. One involves a man and his dog seen walking the bridge before seemingly jumping. Another mentions a ghostly couple. These tales add to the bridge’s mystique.
But there is more to the Aurora Bridge than just tragedy and ghostly whispers. It boasts stunning views. You can see Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains on clear days. The bridge itself is a testament to engineering prowess. Its design is striking. Its span is impressive. It’s been a vital artery of Seattle for almost a century. It also underwent seismic strengthening in 2013.
The Aurora Bridge. More than just concrete and steel. A silent witness to Seattle’s past its struggles and its resilience. A bridge connecting not just neighborhoods but also memories both joyful and heartbreaking.