The James Rumsey Bridge is a landmark that connects communities across the Potomac River and sits just minutes from Shepherd University. For many students and residents, the bridge is part of a familiar route. However, for some individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, this location can become a place of danger.

As a community, we have the ability to take simple but meaningful steps to promote safety and hope. Increasing lighting along university walking paths leading to the bridge and installing signage with crisis resources and supportive messages are practical measures that can help interrupt moments of crisis and encourage individuals to reach out for help.

This petition calls on Shepherd University leadership, the Town of Shepherdstown, and the transportation authorities of Maryland and West Virginia to work collaboratively to implement these safety improvements. These measures may include improved lighting along university walking routes leading toward the bridge and visible signage on and near the bridge that provide crisis hotline information and messages encouraging individuals to seek help. Implementing these changes would help promote safety, raise awareness of mental health resources, and strengthen community efforts to prevent suicide.

Community members can support this effort by signing and sharing this petition, raising awareness about suicide prevention, and encouraging local leaders to take action. By working together, students, university leadership, local officials, and community members can promote safety, increase awareness of available resources, and take meaningful steps toward protecting lives.

This petition supports the goals of Bridging the Gap, a student-led initiative developed by senior social work students at Shepherd University focused on suicide prevention and risk mitigation at the James Rumsey Bridge.

For more information, contact Daisy Garcia at dgarci02@rams.shepherd.edu

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.