The city of Montgomery has announced the launch of a new “metaverse” project in celebration of the upcoming 60th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery March.
A “metaverse” is a virtual space in which users can interact with a computer-generated digital environment as well as other users.
The city says the project “marks a new chapter in the city's commitment to preserving its rich history while embracing new technology.”
The application will launch in March and will be available to anyone with internet access and a web browser, with no special equipment needed.
“This project blends technology and history together in a way that brings the past alive,” says Mayor Steven Reed, “we are proud to offer this unique experience that not only honors our city's legacy, but also provides an engaging educational tool for future generations.”
The metaverse experience was created using historical records, photographs and expert input to ensure an accurate representation of the historic march.
Users will be able to create custom avatars and “walk” the trail in virtual reality from the St. Jude campus to the state capitol.
They can also use the avatars to speak with historic figures using artificial intelligence to experience Montgomery as it looked in 1965.
The new initiative is part of the city's effort to promote economic development, tourism and growth in conjunction with the Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods grant.