The Golden Gate Bridge As An Informal Science Education Resource: Summative Evaluation Report

Since its completion in 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge has become one of the world’s most recognized landmarks as both an iconic public works accomplishment and a popular tourist destination. In 2008, the National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $3 million grant to the Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District to leverage this status in developing informal education resources to interpret the science, engineering and history of the bridge. Through this initiative the Golden Gate Bridge would become a model for other public works venues for providing informal science education and outreach as a part of their public service.

This report summarizes front end and summative evaluation research conducted by David Heil & Associates, Inc. (DHA) for the NSF funded project "The Golden Gate Bridge As An Informal Science Eduction Resource" to guide early project planning and designs as well as measure impacts of the effort on both professional and public audiences. The report also documents important strategic impacts and lessons learned that will inform and advance the field, as well as recommendations for the project team going forward.