A Life Saver

Toronto, ON - elicar - Friday, October 26th, 2007 : goo

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The Luminous Veil

Since the construction of the Luminous Veil on the Prince Edward Viaduct (most commonly known as the Bloor Danforth Viaduct), there had been no suicides. Since its construction in 1919, there had been about 400 lives lost on this bridge. The average was, 1 death as a result of suicide every 22 days, second only to the Golden Gate Bridge which has an average of 1 suicide every 15 days, earning notoriety as the Suicide Magnet. Since the completion of the veil in early 2003 after numerous controversies resulting into long delays and more than twice the cost that the city had budget for (The city approved $2.5M, but the minimum bid was $5.5M. The taxpayers shouldered the balance.), there had been no deaths.

I took a stroll over the bridge today to enjoy the fall colours. The view would have been breathtaking but with no un-obstructed view, it was difficult to appreciate, at first. However, knowing that the veil had saved several lives made me look past the rods and enjoy the view. One would argue that if someone really wants to kill himself, he will find another way. That maybe true, but they have one less way to do it.
For more information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luminous_Veil

This is how the view looks like.

One of the viewpoints. This is the only one with the viewfinder, for the Toronto skyline.

The Viaduct, from Castlefrank.

This sign still remains at the four corners of the bridge.

Plaque on the northeast corner of the bridge.

The following pictures are views past the rods:

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chiamattt: thanks, nice pics.

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