A long-awaited safety improvement project aimed at preventing suicides has been completed on the Arroyo Simi Overhead Bridge along State Route 118 in Moorpark. The SR-118 Arroyo Simi Safety Barrier Project added more than 6,400 linear feet of fencing along both the northbound and southbound sides of the approximately half-mile bridge.
Project Background
The barrier is designed to serve as a physical deterrent for people in crisis. The structure, often referred to by locals as “the suicide bridge,” also has bilingual suicide prevention signage along its inner walls that were placed in 2018 as an earlier prevention measure.
Construction began in October 2025 and was originally expected to be completed in February, but weather and contractor delays extended the schedule. “This project reflects our commitment to improving safety on California’s transportation system while supporting the well-being of our communities,” said Gloria Roberts, director of Caltrans District 7.
The bridge, which spans the junction of state routes 23 and 118 and rises about 90 feet above Princeton Avenue, has been the focus of community concern for decades. Since 1994, more than 20 suicide attempts or fatalities have been reported at the overpass, with a significant increase after 2009.
Community Reaction
Local residents, the city of Moorpark, and Ventura County stakeholders had long advocated for permanent safety improvements. “The city appreciates and sincerely thanks Caltrans for completing this long-awaited project,” Moorpark Mayor Chris Enegren said. “Public safety takes many forms, and these safety barriers represent an important investment in protecting our community.”
The California Highway Patrol is committed to ensuring the safety of the public, the individual involved, and on-scene emergency personnel while interacting with a person in crisis. “This safety barrier helps accomplish all three of these safety priorities,” said CHP Moorpark Area Capt. Heather Hoglund.
Original reporting: Thousand Oaks Acorn — read the source article.
