I'm not really on either side of the barrier debate. I understand both points of view for the most part. I'm just curious when people say "putting up a barrier would diminish the beauty of the bridge". How exactly would it diminish the beauty of the bridge?
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While I'm sure there are people concerned about the beauty of the bridge, there are other issues.
It was approved and is going to be built, but at a cost of $200 Million. So some would question if the money could be better spent on mental healthcare and more bridge guards.
Also, there's the fact that there's the Bay Bridge. While not as iconic as the Golden Gate, it would certainly be tempting for any jumpers. Then there's the fact that many if not most jumpers would just choose another way to kill themselves. Sure, the guard will reduce the number of people jumping to their deaths, but if it doesn't cut the overall rate in the area, what's the point?
Here in Australia, a crazy guy threw his toddler off the West Gate Bridge about 5 yrs ago. The bridge was a notorious suicide spot before that incident but it wasn't in the public discussion.
After the incident, they built a guard rail. So that's why you build a barrier. In case something like that happens once ever