Rocking the Boat Without Getting Seasick

"Don't rock the boat!" I called out, as I was crossing the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge in San Diego's Bankers Hill neighborhood and some troublemakers decided it would be funny to make it swing back and forth.



But why? That's the entire draw to this 106-year-old footbridge, popular for its notorious "wiggle."



But apparently, the natural sway of the suspension just isn't enough for those who step foot on it.



Some people feel the need to test the technical prowess of former City Engineer (and San Diego Mayor) Edwin Capps, who designed it.



And sure, I've been known to rock the carriage on a ferris wheel and shift my body for some extra spins on a Tilt-a-Whirl...



...but I'm afraid enough of heights.



Why tempt fate?



While I was out there, danging 70 feet over Arroyo Canyon below, I had to remind myself that bridges like these were built to move.



All I'd have to do is sway with the bridge, and I wouldn't fall off (nor would the bridge collapse).



Just like riding the New York City Subway. Just like building structures on rollers in case of earthquakes. Just like rocking with the waves rather than trying to remain steadfast despite them.

Out on the water, the less you try to move, the more likely you'll get seasick.

So, just go with it. And try not to break any steel flanges while you're at it.

The bridge closes daily at 10 p.m. Please don't dump trash into the ravine below or leave your drug paraphernalia lying about.

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