Google’s building something in San Francisco Bay and isn’t saying a word

Photo by David Paul Morris/Getty Images

When Google is developing something new, people generally want to know what that something is. Projects along the lines of a new Android phone or Chrome extension can be easier for the company to keep a secret, but what about a four-story structure in the middle of San Francisco Bay?
So far, the internet giant has chosen to keep their new floating building project under wraps. By performing construction on docked barges instead of land, Google is avoiding the need for city building permits and public plans, keeping those interested in the final product guessing.

Is it a store? A data center? A new headquarters? Will the project make its permanent home in the bay or is it due to sail off to another location once completed? Google has been ducking these questions from numerous groups, says the AP.

Who does know what’s going on? The Coast Guard, who has been overseeing construction due to their maritime jurisdiction, does. But they’re not talking either, having been sworn to secrecy due to nondisclosure agreements with Google. Residents, conservation groups and development commissions all kept in the dark have been worried what the new structure could mean for their scenic bay if the structure stays.

“We don’t really want to see the bay used as a shopping mall,” Deb Self of environmental group San Francisco Baykeeper, told the AP. “Unacceptable.”

H/T Justin Scuiletti