Google Barge Has Struggling City Of Stockton Excited For Possibilities
STOCKTON (CBS13) — The city of Stockton is abuzz with excitement after Google's mysterious barge pulled into the Port of Stockton this morning.
It left around 2 a.m. on Thursday and made its way up the Delta and arrived at the Port of Stockton just after 10 a.m.
CBS13 was on the water when the barge arrived.
After the nearly 8-hour journey, the Google barge parked at its new home, where the city and port welcomed the tech giant with open arms.
"Any time you can say the Google and Stockton or port of Stockton in the same sentence it's a good thing," said Richard Aschieris with the port.
Google is expected to continue construction it began near Treasure Island soon, and that means jobs.
"From my understanding, there will be local hiring in terms of electrical and carpentry," said Port Commissioner Victor Mow.
It's not clear how many jobs the move will bring, but Stockton leaders say it's a positive move for the struggling city currently trying to emerge from bankruptcy.
"We think this will trigger an economic stimulus for Stockton," Mayor Anthony Silva said.
Google will be paying $12,000 a month to stay at the port and will be here for at least six months. The port says the barge meets Coast Guard requirements.
VIDEO: Google Barge History
Google could potentially bring in additional security. Aschieris says the port's high security was one reason the company chose the location.
Like other ports, it follows Department of Homeland Security rules.
"You can't come out here on a regular basis without an escort, permission, or purpose," he said.
But neighbors hoping to catch a glimpse like Kenneth Clays found a vantage point across the water.
"Right now it looks good; it's a good-looking boat," he said. "I'm trying to figure out what all the little stacks are on there. I even have binoculars, and it didn't help."
