GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE CLOSER TO SUICIDE NET

San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge moved a big step closer Friday to getting an oft-debated suicide barrier. Bridge officials approved a $76-million-US funding package — including federal and state money and bridge tolls — for a net system to prevent people from jumping to their deaths. At least some of the money still requires additional approval. But the bridge’s board has now taken its final step to adopt the net. Since the bridge opened in 1937, more than 1,400 people have plunged to their deaths, including a record 46 suicides last year. The net, which is to extend about six metres on each side, won’t mar the bridge’s appearance, officials say.