UNITED STATES: The location in San Francisco where Elon Musk claims he hopes to keep his business, the messaging platform X, formerly known as Twitter, is marked by a huge, glowing X. But city officials and certain residents are not happy with the display.
The company put a “X” symbol on the roof of its Market Street HQ on Friday, which made neighbours unhappy owing to the obtrusive lighting. San Francisco’s Department of Building Inspection is currently investigating the structure in response to the complaints.
The move came after Musk, who bought the business in October for $44 billion, announced the newly named firm would stay in San Francisco despite what he called the city’s recent “doom spiral, with one company after another leaving or leaving.”
Musk, who is also the CEO of Tesla, moved its headquarters to Texas in 2021. Keeping X in San Francisco could be seen as a positive sign for the city’s recovery from tourism and business setbacks during the pandemic.
Its downtown area is facing challenges like job cuts in the tech industry, the exit of prominent retailers, and a decline in tourism. Traffic has decreased as a result of more people working remotely, and notable crime and homelessness issues have harmed the city’s reputation.
“Beautiful San Francisco, though others forsake you, we will always be your friend,” Elon Musk wrote.
Yet not all San Franciscans are enthusiastic about Musk’s friendship. Over the weekend, locals captured video of the massive X glowing, pulsing, and strobing, prompting criticism of its intrusive lights.
X user @itsmefrenchy123 stated they would feel “LIVID” if they saw the vivid logo “right across from your bedroom.”
Another X user, @DollyMarlowe, wrote, “I’m just astounded at the flagrant lack of consideration for anyone ever.”
The Department of Building Inspection in San Francisco initiated an investigation into the structure, suspecting a possible violation of permitting regulations.
According to a written report from a BID inspector, company representatives refused roof access to BID officials on two occasions when they attempted to inspect the logo. The inspector also mentioned that one representative claimed the sign was only temporary.
Also Read: Elon Musk Unveils ‘X’: Twitter’s Radical Brand Overhaul Underway
