Free Britney Concert Raises Concerns

Pop sensation Britney Spears is coming San Francisco's Castro District in two weeks, but the planned concert has some neighborhood business owners singing a sour tune.

"It's going to be a disaster for business," said Terry Asten Bennett of Cliff's Variety.

The reason is the stage and lighting will need to be set.

Muni buses will be rerouted and Castro Street will be closed between Market and 19th Streets from midnight until 5 p.m. on March 27.

While Asten Bennett said she is happy about the publicity, she is worried that without parking for customers, her business will take a hit.

"Our business depends on people being able to get to us, so they probably won't be able to get to us that day," she said.

Around the corner from Cliff's Variety, is a new Mollie Stone's Market, which just opened Wednesday.

Managers there said they welcome the influx of foot traffic.

"Even if it hurts business, I think it will be more valuable to the area," Mike Stone, president of Mollie Stone's Market, told KTVU.

Some San Francisco residents also expressed excitement for the planned concert.

"It's going to be really good for the gay community, the Castro," said Tony Miller of San Francisco. "Good for her career."

Spears is coming to San Francisco to promote her new album, but it's not clear why she picked the Castro for her free concert.