National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Golden Spike National Historic Site

P.O. Box 897 Brigham City, UT 84302 435-471-2209, ext. 12 phone 435-471-2341 fax

Golden Spike National Historic Site News Release

For Release: June 3, 2004

Contact: Mary Risser

Phone: 435-471-2209, ext. 12

Golden Spike National Historic Site

Improves Accessibility to Locomotives

Park Ranger Jennifer Clemetson and a visitor from California use the

Interactive computer program to learn more about the locomotives’ cabs.

In the past, visitors to Golden Spike National Historic Site could only view the locomotives’ interior cab features by climbing onto viewing stands positioned next to the Jupiter and No. 119. That isn’t the case anymore. In a partnership with Utah State University, the park has developed an interactive computer program that allows visitors to explore the locomotives’ cabs without leaving the visitor center. The new program has the potential to serve all visitors to Golden Spike, but particularly those who are physically unable to climb the viewing stands.

“This is a wonderful use of technology to enhance visitor experience,” says park superintendent Mary Risser. “Initial visitor reaction has been extremely positive, and we see the program being used by people of all ages. We invite everyone to come out and give it a try. It’s a lot of fun!”

Doctoral student Tom Archibald was the driving creative force behind the project. A student in the Department of Instructional Technology at Utah State, Tom has considerable experience in using technology to enhance educational opportunities. “I wanted to create a product that was educational and fun and that provided an opportunity for physically disabled or elderly visitors to connect with the locomotives. I hope I’ve accomplished that and I’ve have gained a greater appreciation for our national historic sites through working on this project.”

This project was funded through the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program. Golden Spike National Historic Site is open seven days a week during the summer, and the visitor center is open from 9:00 to 5:00. The locomotives are out Wednesday – Sunday from 10:00 to 4:30. Specific park information can be obtained by visiting the park’s website at www.nps.gov/gosp or by calling the visitor center at 435-471-2209, extension 18.