Union County, NJ – On Friday, August 15th, Freeholder Chairman Christopher Hudak announced the official launch of the free Wi-Fi network, and hosted a demonstration of the technology upgrades at Union County’s Trailside Nature and Science Center.
The installation and activation of the Wi-Fi network at Trailside marks the completion of the Freeholder Chairman’s free Wi-Fi initiative for 2014.
“Now, residents can have access to email, social media, and browse the internet while at six Union County facilities: Fraser Building in Westfield, Warinanco Park Skating Rink in Roselle, Wheeler Pool in Linden, Ulrich Pool in Rahway, Nomahegan Park in Cranford, and Trailside Nature Science Center in Mountainside,” said Freeholder Chairman Christopher Hudak. “The free Wi-Fi at Trailside is especially exciting because it opens up new opportunities to learn about the exhibits and participate in activities.”
To help demonstrate the range and versatility of the Wi-Fi network, 1st and 2nd grade Trailside campers participated in an interactive scavenger hunt throughout the center using the free Wi-Fi network to access video clues by scanning QR codes with an iPad.
The Wi-Fi initiative also brings added technology upgrades for Trailside. This facility is now equipped with SMART Boards in four of its classrooms. “The touch screen white boards will help expand the way visitors and campers experience the Nature and Science Center,” said Chairman Hudak.
Included in the technology upgrades at Trailside is the installation of 5 smart TVs located throughout the facility. In addition to the traditional functions of a TV, these flat screen televisions have internet access built in allowing them to access a range of online services with more computing ability and connectivity.
“Combined, the entire technology upgrade is a step toward ensuring that our county recreation facilities are up to date and welcoming to a broad spectrum of activities,” said Freeholder Chairman Christopher Hudak.