Colorado Parks and Wildlife Announces Expansion of Aria App to State Parks

DENVER (KKTV) – Colorado Parks and Wildlife has announced the expansion of Aria, an app that allows people with visual impairments to experience state parks in a new way.

CPW said the app uses live video via a smartphone or computer to connect to a live agent. The agent would guide the customer through the park in real time, describing their surroundings and visually interpreting what is shown on camera. The app can be helpful for people who are blind or have low vision.

Aria offers free 30-minute sessions and users can add additional sessions if they wish.

According to CPW, the expansion is part of Gov. Polis’ goal of a “Colorado for All.”

“All visitors to our parks, including visitors who are blind or visually impaired, deserve access to our services,” said CPW Director Jeff Davis. “We are incredibly fortunate to be included in Aira’s expansion, helping to ensure everyone feels welcome in our parks and knows that our programs and locations are intended to be equitable and inclusive.”

CPW said it wants users to be aware of the challenges that using the app in a national park setting could present. It said a strong cellular connection is necessary to take full advantage of the app. It recommended users contact CPW or visit the CPW website to find out if the park they choose to visit may have weak cellular service. It also recommends users fully charge their devices and bring a backup power source for extended use.

“The partnership between Colorado Parks and Wildlife, OIT and Aira helps ensure that Colorado’s great outdoors is accessible to all,” said David Edinger, OIT executive director and chief information officer. “Together, we are not only transforming how people who are blind or have low vision enjoy our state’s natural beauty, but we are also setting an example of how public-private collaborations can have a meaningful impact.”