TOWN OF ULSTER, N.Y. — Following two separate incidents where individuals tragically jumped from the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge, local officials are advocating for immediate suicide prevention measures at the site. Town Supervisor James Quigley has called on the state Bridge Authority to take action, while Rhinebeck Supervisor Elizabeth Spinzia plans to urge Governor Kathy Hochul to prioritize this issue.
On Thursday, emergency responders recovered the body of an adult male who jumped from the bridge, marking the second such incident within days. Earlier, a woman had also leaped from the structure, with authorities confirming her death shortly after the incident. So far in 2023, six people have lost their lives after jumping from the bridge, heightening the urgency for safety improvements.
Quigley emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to address the ongoing crisis. “We must collaborate with the Bridge Authority to develop effective measures to mitigate suicide attempts,” he said. Spinzia echoed his sentiments, highlighting the potential for structural enhancements like raising the sides of the bridge in architecturally attractive ways. “We need to involve experts and push for these critical updates,” she stated.
Both officials expressed their concern about the emotional toll these losses have taken on their communities and emergency responders. Quigley noted his police chief’s participation in recovery operations, which have become distressingly frequent. “This week alone, my chief has been actively involved in both incidents,” Quigley remarked.
Ulster County Executive Jennifer Metzger joined the supervisors in pressing for action. “The Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge has witnessed far too many tragedies, and it’s imperative that we implement measures to prevent further loss of life,” she stated in a message. Metzger plans to collaborate with officials across both sides of the river to advocate for safety enhancements.
Despite the reported necessity for deterrent measures, Bridge Authority officials previously indicated that implementing fencing on all six of their spans could cost up to $120 million. Currently, there are no plans to erect barriers on the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge or others, aside from limited action at the Bear Mountain Bridge.
Legislative efforts aimed at mandating suicide deterrent barriers on New York’s bridges have stalled this year. While the state Senate passed a relevant bill supported by Senator Michelle Hinchey, it failed to progress in the Assembly. Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha has proposed a similar measure, but it has also seen no movement.
Commenting on the collaboration across party lines, Quigley expressed appreciation for the joint efforts alongside Spinzia, despite their differing political affiliations. “This is a unifying issue that transcends our political disagreements; it’s about saving lives,” he stated.
As officials push for actionable solutions, resources for suicide prevention remain available, including the National Suicide Hotline at 988 and local crisis hotlines. With ongoing discussions and a strong call for action, the hope for meaningful change is palpable in the community.