Trail Explorer By CTRMA - AR Education Application

Trail Explorer AR Education App – Engaging Students with Augmented Reality

State Highway 45 Southwest (45SW) was a highly contested, yet desperately needed, addition to Austin’s overburdened transportation system. This 4.5-mile stretch of highway and walking trail runs directly over the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone and is home to countless wildlife species. The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) and the engineering firm WSP worked for more than four years to ensure this new section of highway was constructed with minimal effect on the surrounding environment.

Upon completion of the highway, the two firms were seeking a fun and engaging way to educate local residents about the sustainable building practices used during construction and on the environmental diversity in the surrounding area. What better way than to connect with people directly on their mobile phones using the power of augmented reality.

Project Goal: Immersive Educational Experiences

Develop an interactive mobile experience that engages with area residents and educates them about the local environment.

Actions Taken to Enhance Learning

Leveraging the latest in augmented reality technology, users get the opportunity to experience local wildlife, step ‘inside’ the Edwards Aquifer, learn how a recharge zone functions, and much more — all from the convenience of their phone.

Outcome: Increased Student Engagement

A highly engaging mobile adventure bridging the gap between analog and digital, modernizing the outdoor trail experience and driving new users to explore the trail.