Google explores separate test network in SF

Google Inc. has asked for the right to use as many as 1,500 San Francisco light poles for wireless equipment on a test network of its own, separate from the citywide Wi-Fi infrastructure that the company proposed along with EarthLink Inc.

The search giant and EarthLink were chosen earlier this year through a request for proposals to build a wireless network around the city that would provide free Internet access as well as a faster, paid service. EarthLink, which would build and operate the network, is now in negotiations with the city on the details of the deal. The network is to be built at no cost to the city, which would provide light poles and other places to mount access points.

The Wi-Fi plan, as well as the city's process for seeking proposals and input on it, have sparked protest from activists and public officials who are worried that the city is giving the private companies free rein and getting too little in return. They have asked for city ownership, more privacy guarantees for users and funding to help disadvantaged residents get on the Internet.

EarthLink told the city earlier this month that Google wanted access to 450 light poles for a test network, with the option to expand it to 1,500 poles, as a condition of its participating in the project, according to a regular disclosure by the city about the negotiations. Google doesn't want a direct contract with the city for use of the poles, but would rather wrap those rights into the overall Wi-Fi contract, the disclosure said.

However, Google's request may not get very far, according to a city official involved in the negotiations.

"I don't think we'll be able to accommodate them through this RFP process," said Brian Roberts, a senior policy analyst for the city. The idea seems to go too far beyond the concept presented in response to the RFP, he said.

The proposal surprised Kimo Crossman, a local activist who has been watching the negotiation process.

Such an arrangement would give Google a valuable asset, he said.

"It's all about real estate. It's about getting access to the poles and the buildings, and you'll figure out what you'll do with it later," Crossman said.

Google executives could not immediately be reached for comment.