Item - 2025.IE25.5

The Infrastructure and Environment Committee:

1. Requested that the General Manager, Transportation Services, and the Chief Engineer and Executive Director, Engineering Construction Services continue to proceed with the following actions as set out in the report (October 15, 2025) from the Acting General Manager, Transportation Services, and the Chief Engineer, and Executive Director, Engineering and Construction Services:

a. a competitive procurement process for the installation of the interim safety barrier Option 3B - Curved Fence for immediate implementation on the Leaside Bridge;

b. undertake further expert consultation for other interim measures such as updated signage, in consultation with Toronto Public Health; and

c. permanent barrier design and installation as part of the next major state-of-good-repair project for the bridge, currently programmed for 2037.

The Leaside Bridge, also known as the Millwood Overpass Bridge (Structure ID 105), has been identified as a high-risk location for suicide. Research indicates that implementing safety barriers and other supporting intervention measures on bridges can significantly reduce the risk of suicide deaths.

In April 2025, a report on the outcome of a study reviewing the feasibility of implementing a permanent barrier on the Leaside Bridge to mitigate suicide attempts was brought forward to Infrastructure and Environment Committee. In response to that report, City Council directed that Transportation Services and Engineering and Construction Services, in consultation with Toronto Public Health, investigate options to accelerate the installation of barriers, as well as other interim safety measures for the Leaside Bridge.

In response to the direction from City Council, this report identifies interim safety measures, timelines and costs, to address suicide prevention for the Leaside Bridge.  The report also provides an update on the permanent barrier design and structural work, including updated procurement and installation timelines and costs.

HELP IS AVAILABLE

If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, seek help right away. Support is available from experienced professionals who are ready to listen and assist.

In an emergency: Call 911 if you are in immediate danger, experiencing a crisis, or need urgent medical assistance.

For suicide support: Call or text 9-8-8 for free, 24/7, and confidential support.

For other services: Call 211 to be connected to mental health and social services.

For more resources: Visit the City of Toronto’s Mental Health Resources page.

You are not alone - help is just a call, text, or click away

MEDIA GUIDELINES FOR REPORTING ON SUICIDE

A substantial body of research suggests that media reports about people who have died by suicide, as well as the topic of suicide in general, can influence vulnerable people and is associated with higher subsequent rates of suicide. Emerging evidence also suggests that reports about people overcoming suicidal crises may lower suicide rates.