The Untold Story of the Google Buses That Took Over San Francisco
This article explores the history of Google's commuter shuttle program in San Francisco and the subsequent political backlash from activists. It details how the buses became a focal point for broader tensions regarding gentrification, housing costs, and the influence of the tech industry on the city.
Why it matters
The 'Google bus' protests serve as a case study for the cultural and economic friction between tech companies and local urban communities.
Photo-Illustration: Jobanny Cabrera; Getty Images Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Comment Loader Save Story Save this story Activists in San Francisco’s Mission District weren’t giving up easily. David Campos had taken the baton from Chris Daly as the city Supervisor leading the anti-gentrification advocates, who were anchored in a handful of nonprofit community groups. During the springtime festivities for Cinco de Mayo in 2015, Campos called for a moratorium on all new housing construction in the Mission, saying it was the only way to give the district “a fighting chance.”
The article provides a historical overview of the conflict, acknowledging perspectives from both housing activists and tech employees.
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