The bridges were built because the excellent ferry system was allready overtaxed. San Francisco Bay is one of the most underrated dangerous bodies of water, both inside the gates and out. If a truly 'big one' hits outlying areas, especially the PCH may also be damaged. The last thing I'd want to see are neophyte sailors becoming great white brunches off the Farallons. My great grandmother was in the 1906 earthquake. She jumped under the massive oak desk I am working at with a Bisley Colt. For our survival gun contingent I think it was a .38-40 backed up by a long hatpin.